Our F85 Power Tour Project

[PhillipM]

Below you can follow some of the progress that we have done in the past 5 weeks on our Power Tour car for this year. It is a 1965 Olds F85 with a 455 and a T56.

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[PhillipM]

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[cheapthrillz]

Great wheel choice! Don't know what they are or who makes them, but they look perfect for the body style!

Keep up the good work!

[andrewb70]

Great project and awesome progress!!!

Andrew

[PhillipM]

Great wheel choice! Don't know what they are or who makes them, but they look perfect for the body style!

Keep up the good work!

Here is the group purchase that we bought them on..

https://www.pro-touring.com/forum/showthread.php?t=40625&highlight=Rushforth

Give Jon a call at Driverz Inc. and he can get you all set up.

http://www.driverzinc.com/

Andrew- Thanks for the compliment, ~40 days until we need to leave so there is quite a bit of work yet to do.
:usa:

[68cutlass]

Very cool car. I really like the '66/'67 Olds. That's a really unique pt car.

How did you manage to get the T56 to bolt up to the 455? What modifications are you going to have to make to get it to fit? What, if any, modifications did you make to the T56 itself to be able to handle the torque of the 455?

The reason I ask is I'm putting a 455 in my '68 which should put out about 540 ft.-lbs. I'm planning on using a TKO600 to handle the torque. You're the first I've seen to be able to put a T56 behind an Olds.

-Mark

[7TSS]

Nice project. Good luck on making the power tour.

[PhillipM]

Very cool car. I really like the '66/'67 Olds. That's a really unique pt car.

How did you manage to get the T56 to bolt up to the 455? What modifications are you going to have to make to get it to fit? What, if any, modifications did you make to the T56 itself to be able to handle the torque of the 455?

The reason I ask is I'm putting a 455 in my '68 which should put out about 540 ft.-lbs. I'm planning on using a TKO600 to handle the torque. You're the first I've seen to be able to put a T56 behind an Olds.

-Mark

The bellhousing is a Mcleod unit, the hydrolics were originaly from ATS and have been modified a little bit to fit the A-body better (originally designed for an F-body). As for the T56 itself, it is a RS Gear unit that came from ATS, and is rated @ 750ft/lb. In order to put this giant trans in there we completly cut the tunel out and shaped a new one out of 16ga steel in our slip roll. It is not only wider but much taller to get the trans up in the car high enough so nothing is hanging down below the frame. The car is coming along really well and should be a nice change up from PT Camaros on power tour. I will try and get a few more photos of the engine and trans set up for you guys.
:6gears:

7TSS- Were a little futher along than the pics show :twothumbs

[Krazed]

THAT is a sexy car! I might have to find one of those sometime soon for a nice family Cruiser.

Wonder how rare they are....Hmmmm.

[gearheads78]

Sweet another early Olds A-body on PT:woot:

[SSTuner]

Did the frame get painted or powdercoated?

[PhillipM]

Did the frame get painted or powdercoated?

We painted it using GM Recon paint. I love the finish that this paint gives. Too bad GM doesn't sell it anymore..

[trapin]

'65 Olds is one of those really great cars that gets overlooked. I love the body lines on them. Great project and a great idea. Can't wait to see it finished.

[DriverzInc]

Rushforth Wheels looking sweet! :)
Car looks like it's coming together great, be sure to send pics from Power Tour!

[PhillipM]

Well it was a long weekend but took a few minutes to pull the car out and snap a few photos... Enjoy!

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:cheers:

[gearheads78]

looking great!!

[jackfrost]

awesome project! nice work...

[TurboLark]

Sweet project!! Had to save alot of those pics for reference.
What size wheels/tires are you running on there? BS too if possible.
Thanks.

[olds87]

Nice job Phillip. Have fun on Power Tour.

[WTRacing]

looking great, love the wheels

[PhillipM]

Sweet project!! Had to save alot of those pics for reference.
What size wheels/tires are you running on there? BS too if possible.
Thanks.

The rears are 20x8.5 w/ 5" BS on a 275 35 20 I'm also running a .300" spacer to clear the inner body mounts.

The rear is narrowed 1.5" over all.

The fronts are 19x8 w/ 6" BS 245 35 19.

[GHOSTDANCER]

Kool build :cheers:

[Code Red]

nice man

[PhillipM]

Well we are moving along. Front wheels should be here very soon but we took it out to have the carpet installed last Sunday. Below are a few updated pics.

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I took it out for a drive down the side street like this and had a police officer not turned before I got to the intersection I'm pretty sure he would have stopped me. "No officer, I don't know why you stopped me.." Haha

:dunno:

[TurboLark]

The rears are 20x8.5 w/ 4.25" BS on a 275 35 20

The rear is narrowed 1.5" over all, so on a standard rear end it would be 20x8.5 w/ 5" BS.

The fronts are 19x8 w/ 6" BS 245 35 19.
Thanks for the info. How was the steering/rubbing up front when you took it for the test drive?

[Stangz]

Great looking car and choices of combos. Man I would have been nervous under the body doing the uncoating!

[Reckn8]

Thanks, the Cutlass has turned out pretty well. Need to do a couple minor changes after the power tour, like front seats! When I was 16 and had a 64 Cutlass they seemed just fine. Alot different now when you're over 50. The fork lift scared me more than the jack stands! I had one of our Z/28s on those stands for almost 10 years.

[BA.]

I've missed this thread previously but damn this is a cool build. sits low, the rims are great on the F-85's body lines too,....Olds 455 power and a T56. that is just awesome! <2 thumbs up>

[novanutcase]

Super Nice! That should be real fun on the power tour!

John

[PhillipM]

Thanks for the info. How was the steering/rubbing up front when you took it for the test drive?

With our new 6" back spacing on the front wheels they only rub at full lock. And that is with a pretty low ride height. If the bottom of the fender is at the top of the wheel then they don't rub at all. Here are some updated photos. The last one is us in Cresco, IA on our way to the Featherlite trailor facility. We went over a few bumbs and had a Shockwave come apart. The problem was in a way an accident on our part so nobody be affraid that you Shockwave will just "fall apart". In the action of it coming apart we lost the "O" rings in it so we had to drove it to the next stop adding air every 30 seconds or so. We met up with Air Ride and they helped us rebuild it right there. Scarry but hey, you gotta do what you gotta do on tour sometimes. Charley Lillard has some photos of use pulling the suspension apart at the show.. If your reading this Charley send them on over!
:wrc:

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[shortrack]

very cool......always loved that body style!

[SDMAN]

A very nice ride. And I ought to know....I rode in it. I got to watch it go together, as my car is being built out of that shop (70 GTO). So I spend a bit of time there.

[ScotI]

I followed this post & loved the choices made.

After thinking about the build, I wondered what were your specs on the drivetrain (motor, cam, carb, rear gearing) & how were the mpg's for the tour?

I would bet there's a bunch of guys out there that are curious how much of an impact a T-56 can make in an older muscle-car on the road.

Also..... What exactly went wrong on the SW install that caused the failure (if you don't mind airing the dirty-laundry)?

[PhillipM]

The motor is a mid 70's Olds 455, bored 40 over with a mild stage 1 cam. The carb is a quadrajet and we are running a 4.11 gear. We averaged 18 mpg with a high of 21 and a low of 15. The real key to getting the mpg's up with the carb is to not run too low of an rpm at cruise. We ran about 2k rpm at our cruising speed of 70, and it worked out pretty well. I'm sure with some more tweaking it could have done better but we were pretty happy.

As for the SW failure, the coupler at the top of the shock was removed and was found to not have loctite on it. Air Ride has already checked their production line and have found that all of them had loctite.. so it sounds like a fluke deal. We took the rest apart and made sure that there was loctite on them. We are not sure if someone on our side took it off or if it came from the factory like that but either way we are safe now.

[ScotI]

18mpg average isn't too shabby for a 455 in some 60's era muscle. I always figured it would be best to keep rpm's around the normal city cruise speed (city subdivisions that is) so around 40mph & 2Krpm. That 2Krpm on the hwy sounds right.....

Thanks for the follow-up on the ShockWave. I've read where many people assume the red 'goo' on the fitting threads is sealant. I've also seen that it's anti-galling compound & that you're still supposed to wrap the threads in sealant. Did ART clarify that for you?

[55chevyman]

could we see some pics of the interior back together?

[PhillipM]

18mpg average isn't too shabby for a 455 in some 60's era muscle. I always figured it would be best to keep rpm's around the normal city cruise speed (city subdivisions that is) so around 40mph & 2Krpm. That 2Krpm on the hwy sounds right.....

Thanks for the follow-up on the ShockWave. I've read where many people assume the red 'goo' on the fitting threads is sealant. I've also seen that it's anti-galling compound & that you're still supposed to wrap the threads in sealant. Did ART clarify that for you?

The red stuff that you see on the airline fittings is just to protect the threads.. you still need to add a thread sealant.

The red stuff on the coupler that goes ontop of the shock to make the shock longer is loctite and needs to be there.

55chevyman- Funny as it may be I have a bunch of photos of the car but none of the interior. I will see if I can't snap a few in the next day or so.

[55chevyman]

Thanks Phillip!

[70 Chevelle]

I'm in love wit the rims any chance of a side shot so I can do a little chop? Great work by the way.

[PhillipM]

I'm in love wit the rims any chance of a side shot so I can do a little chop? Great work by the way.

Should do..

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[70 Chevelle]

Should do..

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/07/IMGP3947-1.jpg

Thank you very much!

[Reckn8]

could we see some pics of the interior back together?

Here is a quick shot of the interior.. was there a specific area that your were wanting??

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[55chevyman]

Thanks Phillip!!! I hope thats is the finished interior, because i love it!

Could you possibly get a closer pic of the shifter area/air vents and air ride controller?

[PhillipM]

Alex,

Yes that is the interior in its finished state. I will take a couple more photos tonight of the areas in question. The airconditioning almost didn't fit because the tunnel had to be inlarged so far for the trans but hey, sometimes its better to be lucky than good huh! The driver seat has the tracks from a 4th generation Trans Am under it so it is a 6 way power seat. The original seat was power but the transmission had gone bad and it was easier to replace the whole track set up rather than look for an original transmission.

[55chevyman]

Thats a pretty slick adjustable seat setup! Was it that hard to do? Could you possibly give me a measurment from the bottom of the seat track to the top of the seat bottom?

[PhillipM]

Thats a pretty slick adjustable seat setup! Was it that hard to do? Could you possibly give me a measurment from the bottom of the seat track to the top of the seat bottom?

It was kind of time consuming.. The measurement is still the same (about 7"). I cut off the mounting tabs for the old track and then welded on the new track using some 1" square tube as a bracket. I didn't take any pictures though sorry :(...Below are a couple photos of the interior..

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[TurboLark]

Looks very nice. What are the plans for the outside? In one pic it looked like it was getting ready for a vinyl top.

[55chevyman]

That looks awesome! Thanks for the measurement!
What kind of shifter is that? how good/ do you like is the shifter placement?
Also where did you get the shifter boot?

[darren@ridetech]

Car looks good Phillip! Don't see many early Olds' fixed up. Nice Job!

[PhillipM]

That looks awesome! Thanks for the measurement!
What kind of shifter is that? how good/ do you like is the shifter placement?
Also where did you get the shifter boot?

The shifter is a hurst Pro 5.0 shifter. The placement is great for under 6' drivers. I'm 6'3 and have to reach just a little bit. We are actually changing to a newer lowback bucket seat soon which will sit lower in the car and should make the shifter a little closer for me. I believe that the boot came from either OPG or Year One.


Turbo Lark,

Your looking at the outside!! Haha. We aren't going to paint it. The photo with the sheet over the front was during a photo shoot. The paint job is a great 30 footer and for this car that is going to be fine. This is just a sweet driver that when your on the Iowa stop during Power Tour, you don't worry that there are chances for hail. Ha!



Darren,

Thanks bud! When do you think we will see that double adjustble shock back??

[PhillipM]

Well this car has seen alot of changes in the past few months. We have been fixing quite a few things that have bugged us since last years Power Tour. I don't have all of the photos yet but you will quickley notice the biggest change, and that is the C' notched rear frame. This will allow us to drive the car and a respectable height and still have 3.5 inches of bump travel. The biproduct of this of course is the slammed parking stance:yum:. More photos to come soon!

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[CruizinKev]

looking good!!! :twothumbs

[1360]

Even better!!

[TurboLark]

Looks great. I wish I could get my 'Lark to that spot, but other projects have taken priority at the moment.

[PhillipM]

Thanks guys, it has been a much bigger project then I could have ever imagined!

[olds87]

Nice to see your Dad car like that, just sick.

[gearheads78]

Thanks guys, it has been a much bigger project then I could have ever imagined!

Wanna share any frame mod pics?

[Draginutz]

Keeping it simple! I like it. It seems purpose built on a reasonable budget. Good work. I like that it is "painted" and you don't have to worry about it.

[PhillipM]

Wanna share any frame mod pics?

I am still waiting to get the frame pictures off of another camera but here is what we did tonight... rolled a new rear half of the tunnel. Most of you will know that we already built the front half of the tunnel for the T56... and now we needed to raise the rear again. By the way, 16 guage metal takes some brute force to roll!!! Looks like some rear seat modifications will be in order.

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I should have the rest of the suspension photos up on Tuesday.

[PhillipM]

I'm still waiting for the build photos but I dragged it outside today to snap a couple photos. Also I am fighting the rear bag leaks. I think that I am going to try the thread sealant paste rather than the tape to see if that helps anything.

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[PhillipM]

So I finally was able to download the rest of the photos that I have so far. We currently are sitting with the exhaust, rear seat and trunk floor still needing to be addressed. Along with that I need to get some shocks ordered and also a new driveshaft coming.. So much to do still! Yikes.
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Cutting off the old bag mounts..
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Forgot that we left the original ones under the new ones... twice the cutoff work.. bummer..
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Here are the new bags on the right.. you can already tell how much shorter they are. Slam Specialties RE 6's

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Marking out for the notch.
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Deciding that the rest of the tunnel has to go.
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After calling Metco hoping that they would build us some longer adjusting shafts for our upper control arms, and getting shot down, we decided to build our own with parts sourced from my favorite online store... McMaster Carr!
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Here is my buddy working on the upper shafts..
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The new tunnel back in it.
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The notch and fish plates welded in and cleaned up ready for some paint.

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That pretty much brings us to where the project is today. I have a lot more finish work to do yet but I will be chiping away at it. I can't say enough how much bigger of a project this has been then I ever imagined.

-Phillip

[PhillipM]

Well after finishing up a TON of little things like raising the trunk floor, remounting our air distribution block and computer, re-working most of the exhaust system, remounting the ride height sensors, changing the angle of the rear shock mounts to match out new pinion angle, and measuring for a new drive shaft I can finally say that I drove this car for the first time in 3 months last weekend. If we go back to why the rear suspension was torn apart in the first place it was because of 2 things. It rode like complete dog pooh at the height we wanted (too little air in the rear bags) and the car was un-drivable at speeds above 70 mph because of a driveline shake suspected to be in the front U joint (you mean your transmission/driveshaft/ and rear-end cannot be in a straight line??? NO.). Now that the rear bag mounts are mounted off of the bottom of the rear end and not the top, the bag is extended to the proper distance at our chosen ride height giving an absolutely amazing ride. We are now using single adjustable shocks in the rear instead of double adjustable for the shear fact of cost. Although I am already noticing their down falls they will work just fine for this car. Moving on to the driveline shake, I spoke with as many people as I could and got just about as many different opinions as questions. In the end I used this (http://www.vibratesoftware.com/) software and advice from this (http://www.iedls.com/guide.html) document to decide that I would run down 2 degrees on the engine, up 2 degrees on the pinion with a upward slope of 1 degree on the drive shaft and the whole system looking like this \ / \ . I am extremely happy to report that even cruising at 85 mph this car is very smooth now. It is absolutely amazing! Am I upset that the original builder will still not admit to his mistake on the drive line angles?? Very sad, but that’s how he rolls I guess. I hope to have the final pictures posted in the next few weeks but we’ll see, still need to get the upholstery and a few minor details wrapped up.

Thanks for reading.

-Phillip

[Gearhead Dude]

Cool build Phillip! Thanks for all the details in your build thread.

[gearheads78]

Great to hear Phillip. I'm looking forward to the pics.

[PhillipM]

A small but important update for the Olds... With the new much lower ride height we had created quite a rear tire rub when doing anything but driving straight. Rather than stepping down to a 255 series tire we decided to do a slight inner fenderwell massage on the back side of the rear wheel well. We basically picked up about 1" of clearance and has fixed pretty much all of our rubbing issues. All while keeping our 275's out back! Nice.

[ScotI]

You should be ashamed for giving us this update w/o pics!

[1964_442]

You should be ashamed for giving us this update w/o pics!


x 2 hehehhe

[PhillipM]

You should be ashamed for giving us this update w/o pics!

I will see if I can't snap a pic of the finished product tonight for you guys. It really was such a small little fix. I had the metal work done in only a few hours. And this was while I was running my C02 laser system that we just got!! So not a lot of work but the finished product produces a nice quite ride:)

[PhillipM]

I don’t think it was chronicled in this thread but we were having a problem with our ididit column. While someone was driving it would be really loose in the tilted position and even at times would snap back up to the top. After a short call to the factory they wanted us to send it back so that they could warranty the parts out. While I wasn’t too excited about removing the column it did give us time to do some rewiring that we wanted to do and also add a new custom tachometer. So, this is all leading into a very scary thing that happened last night driving the car home from work on the 101 headed south out of Scottsdale, Arizona.

I was driving in the far left lane going about 60 mph when all of the sudden I went to adjust the wheel and I had nothing. Not even a little bit of steering. (You could basically spin the wheel as if it were one of those cheap video games and it would go around about 100 times.) So as I started to freak out the car started to slowly drift to the right cutting off person by person over the next 1/8th mile, receiving a nice honk and an arm full every lane I took over. Luckily and amazingly I made my way across three lanes of traffic without hitting a single thing and now I am approaching the right shoulder where there is a small lip and then a steep hill leading down to the on ramp for the freeway. The front wheel hit the small rolled lip and bumped along it and kept me on the road and yet still away from traffic.

So, I am now sitting on the right shoulder of the freeway uninjured and with all the original paint still intact. First I pull off the horn cap to see if it was something up there even though that didn’t make sense. After seeing everything still tight up there I hopped out and opened the hood (which was difficult because I was still shaken up). I didn’t see anything right away but reached in and turned the wheel while watching and that’s when I saw it. The Borgeson joint had slid off of the bottom of the column! I didn’t install the joint but my Dad did and he said that it was tight. According to Borgeson we should have filed a small flat edge onto the spines to give the set screw something to bite into. Has anyone had this happen or know of it happening?? I didn’t get much sleep last night as I lay in bed thinking of all the bad things that could have happened, like a 10 car pile up as I sideswiped everything and everyone in sight! I guess it is better to be lucky than good sometimes. This weekend we will go over the rest of the car again with a fine tooth comb to check every last nut and bolt that we can get to.

Sorry for the lengthy post but if you have taken the time to read it I hope that you will take the time to check your stuff every once in a while!

[wolf28]

I can imagine that phone call to Paul. Haha

[Gearhead Dude]

Praise God for keeping His hand on you during all of this! That is no small event! Glad to hear you're safe!

[Jim Nilsen]

Glad you are still in one piece and the car too!!! With the tires we run you could have hit a groove in the road and been spinning around in front of cars and trucks. Someone was trying teach someone else but not you a lesson it seems.


You are making me glad that I am doing checks on every system in the car to make sure. Then I am going to have 2 other friends go over it too. I found 2 cotter pins that weren't in going over the front end this morning.

[Blitz]

Glad that you made it out of that unscathed. Count your blessings.

Question for you: As far as the carpeting, what type is that? It looks like the "Mercedes Carpet" that I sometimes read about but have never been able to find a source for. Also, what are you plans on covering the Dynamat on the underside of the trunklid?

Like most have said that is a really nice build. Keep the updates coming!

[Radlark]

Glad you made it unscathed! Regarding the joint when I installed mine in the Chevelle it was recommended that I actually drill a small hole just deep enough into the rod for the set screw to kind of sit in! Never had an issue

[PhillipM]

Glad that you made it out of that unscathed. Count your blessings.

Question for you: As far as the carpeting, what type is that? It looks like the "Mercedes Carpet" that I sometimes read about but have never been able to find a source for. Also, what are you plans on covering the Dynamat on the underside of the trunklid?

Like most have said that is a really nice build. Keep the updates coming!

Thank you so much everyone for the kind words and support. It definitely was the scariest thing that has every happened to me. Unlike accidents and other dangerous times, the feeling of being out of control and on an unmanned ride was just crazy.

As for the type of carpet that we used as far as I know it is just standard late model "pile" carpet rather than older "loop" carpet. If you are still having trouble let me know and I can give you the name and number of our interior guy to see if he could send you in the right direction.

The dynomat... Well that was placed there on a last minute deal to get rid of vibrations from the stereo system. The entire trunk floor is done as well but is done from the underside above the gas tank. I have had a few ideas like laser cut thin plastic or even just scuffing it and masking off for some black paint. Does anyone else have any ideas???

[PhillipM]

Glad you made it unscathed! Regarding the joint when I installed mine in the Chevelle it was recommended that I actually drill a small hole just deep enough into the rod for the set screw to kind of sit in! Never had an issue

Did you do this on the splined part of the column or on the Double D shaft? I could see doing that on the Double D but Borgeson recommended filing a flat portion into my splined shaft. I'm hoping that I can see where it was on the shaft so that I don't need to get it aligned again.

[PhillipM]

I can imagine that phone call to Paul. Haha

Chris you work with Paul right??

------------------------

Ha! Yeah went something like this...

Hey Dad, we're luck we still have a 65 Olds in one piece..

Why?

Cause the steering shaft feel off the bottom of the steering column..

HUH!!! WHAT!!!

I need your AAA memember # text to me asap!!!


He was actually pretty relaxed and just glad I was safe. I do need to tell him to increase his towing on his AAA though. 5 miles?? that's it? Both times I've had to use it I had to fork over another 20 bucks or so for the tow.

[wolf28]

Thats me.

I've had to make some unfun phone calls to him myself.

Sounds like you got off easier that I did. Haha.

Glad everything worked out. Someone was definitely looking out for you that day.



Chris you work with Paul right??

------------------------

Ha! Yeah went something like this...

Hey Dad, we're luck we still have a 65 Olds in one piece..

Why?

Cause the steering shaft feel off the bottom of the steering column..

HUH!!! WHAT!!!

I need your AAA memember # text to me asap!!!


He was actually pretty relaxed and just glad I was safe. I do need to tell him to increase his towing on his AAA though. 5 miles?? that's it? Both times I've had to use it I had to fork over another 20 bucks or so for the tow.

[rockytopper]

Darn Phil, thats to bad, I sure could have used those nice wheels on my F-85:evil:

[1offwizard]

Glad it worked out ok! I'm loving the stance!

[bonecrrusher]

Was this on the 09 power tour?

If it was, I'm sad that I missed it.. this car is badass!

[Roadbuster]

Glad you are OK!
Also use loctite on those set screws. I just went out and checked mine just to be sure.

Jon

[PhillipM]

Was this on the 09 power tour?

If it was, I'm sad that I missed it.. this car is badass!

We actually brought this car on the 08 Power Tour:)

[Renner]

Glad that you made it out of that unscathed. Count your blessings.

Question for you: As far as the carpeting, what type is that? It looks like the "Mercedes Carpet" that I sometimes read about but have never been able to find a source for.

late to reply and a little OT, but,
Mercedes carpet is called German Square Weave.

[Blitz]

All that comes up when I google that is old VW Beetle stuff.

[Renner]

Thats because they use the hell out of it. And they make ready to go kits out of it because there is a market for it. Call West Coast Classics in CA, they are a VW shop, but they sell it by the yard.

[Blitz]

In the images it looks more coarse than I was thinking. Like berbur(sp) carpet?

[PhillipM]

Well we finally got the car over to ADS in Chandler, AZ to have it tuned. The big block Olds did better than I thought with a torque cam and stock exhaust manifolds, 324hp and 447tq at the wheels. Below is the dyno, she is done at 4500!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/oldsdyno1-1.jpg~original

[olds87]

The car was handling great in autocross event at good guys.

[PhillipM]

Cool thanks man, I wish it would have been tuned before that event! Oh well, wouldn't really have changed much as acceleration wasn't really a huge factor on that track. Smooth and steady was apparently key!

[PhillipM]

We got a small bit of ink with this car in the latest PHR! Nice :)

[jocko124]

I saw that. Congrats!

[Mingus]

I had somehow missed this thread until now. Absolutely awesome car.

[PhillipM]

I saw that. Congrats!


I had somehow missed this thread until now. Absolutely awesome car.

Thanks guys! Like always this car never seems to be done. Paul has been working on putting a Holley Street Avenger carb on it. Figured we had tried all the others out, might as weel try this one too! Actually the darn Edlebrock that was on there flooded and was questionable at mid throttle on power. So, we borrowed this Street Avenger from a buddy. We should know soon how well it works.

Below is the page from PHR. Guess they got a little confused on the notes. I was driving it in the picture. Time wasn't too bad for my first trip around an autocross. Was quite fun actually!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/06/SKMBT_C55210062408310Large-1.jpg~original

[TurboLark]

Been ages..whats the status of the car now?

[PhillipM]

Funny you should ask... One of the first A body Vapor Worx tanks?? Hector said they shot pictures of this bad boy during the build of it for a magazine column...


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/04/VaporWorxTank-1.jpg~original

[TurboLark]

Thats a beauty. Since you dont really need it you can send over here. I'll put it in my Skylark project. :)

[PhillipM]

Oh don't worry... were gunna need it soon :smoke:

[olds87]

Hi Phillip,

How you been?

How much it that tank? Where you guys at the Good Guys show back in March?

[PhillipM]

Hey James, we were actually out of town that weekend so we missed it. Bummer.

[olds87]

What other things you and your dad going to do with Olds?

[PhillipM]

You'll have to stay tuned :) Should have the rest of the parts by next month..

[TomT]

Your Olds is super cool! I have a 62 F85 but I'm trying to finish another project before I start work on it.

[PhillipM]

Thanks!

[PhillipM]

Okay guys, I've been really busy and not making many posts on here. Paul and I have been really working hard making changes to this car. We decided to pull the the 455 Olds big block and move to LS power. A few details are:

Engine: LS6, Diamond forged pistons and Callies forged rods: 9.5 to 1 CR
Magnacharger TVS2300
Mast Motorsports Oilpan
Ricks Tanks Vaporworks "A" body tank

We will still be using the Viper 6spd.

Some notes on what you're seeing... the Drivers side "Doug's" header hit the frame rail so bad I had to cut the flange off and weld a new one on .5" further in. I modified the Kwik performance A/C bracket to house the Magnacharger tensioner belt. This tensioner is much bigger than the factory one..

Here are a few photos of where we're at right now..

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/DSC01657Small-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/DSC01651Small-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/DSC01655Small-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/DSC01659Small-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/DSC01653Small-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/DSC01654Small-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/DSC01647Small-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/DSC01646Small-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/DSC01575Small-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/DSC01696Small-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/DSC01682Small-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/DSC01660Small-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/DSC01564Small-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[PhillipM]

Started working on the exhaust. The 3" is definitely tighter than the 2.5"!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/DSC01723Medium-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/DSC01717Medium-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/DSC01718Medium-1.jpg~original

[PhillipM]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/DSC01724Large-1.jpg~original

[rfalker1]

WOW!!!!!!!!!!!! SO what are you doing with the old engine??

[bonecrrusher]

Looking awesome!

[PhillipM]

WOW!!!!!!!!!!!! SO what are you doing with the old engine??

Thanks Randal! The big block Olds is for sale. If you know anyone looking for a very nice one, send them our way!

[therobski]

Phil I sent you a PM on this too. Where did you get the A/C brackets for the 455? Was that a Sanden compressor? I'm building a 64 F-85 granny post car also have a thread in this section. Trust me I'm taking alot of notes, excellent job.

[PhillipM]

Thank you for the help guys.. Our 455 has found a great new home. We can now continue to focus on getting our 65 ready for Power Tour '12.

[PhillipM]

Now that the HRPT '12 is getting very close, and our Olds is receiving it's final few finishing details, I thought I would upload a few more photos..

Here is the cold air intake that I built using a piece of diesel truck exhaust..
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/IMG2011120500222-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/20120214_163159_200Medium-1.jpg

Here are some shots of the roll cage and the new interior that we put in..
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/DSC01965Medium-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/DSC01980Medium-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/DSC02007Medium-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/DSC02008Medium-1.jpg~original

We were running some 3" Magnaflow mufflers but it was just too loud! So we had to add some resonaters that you can see just barely in this shot from the rear.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/IMG2012040100056-1.jpg~original

And finally the new dyno sheet.. 550 to the wheels :)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/oldsdyno2-1.jpg~original

[Mingus]

The car is looking awesome! Probably got a lot of the Olds guys bent out of shape by pulling the 455 for an LS. I'm not one of them though. There is definitely an LS in my Cutlass' future (though probably not near future). Hard to argue with that kind of power numbers.

[therobski]

Wow your moving along Phil. I updated my thread last week-been awhile for me too on the 64 but I a have a rolling chassis ready to go just waiting on the body shop. By some slim chance did you keep the 65 instrument cluster-I need a circuit board with the fuel gauge.

[chaz75]

saw your olds parked in downtown the other day, even my girlfriend commented on it.

[gmgiuffre]

Very Nice Build!

[Dc2x4drvr]

Hi Phil,
We met on the '12 Tour, (red '71 442), what are you and your Dad building now? Are you considering the '14 Tour. Erin and I will be there.

[83tb]

I like this car, and the stance!!

[Reckn8]

Phillip and I were just talking about the Power Tour on Sunday! We made room reservation deposit and are bringing the F-85 again.Bryan and Les are coming too. Phillip has been banging on the Studebaker and I dug the second gen SS out and repainted it. We'll stay in touch. Paul

[PhillipM]

Okay time for an update!

Yes as usual we are preparing for HRPT... So trying to fix some annoying things on the car and apparently some necessary items to boot!

The other day when I was under the car still trying to identify the cause of our driveline vibration I noticed this...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/IMG_2301Medium_zpsd9df9368-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_2301Medium_zpsd9df9368.jpg.html)

Yup. You are seeing correct. That is the frame torn right up the middle above the pinion. Now those who have read this whole thread will know that I did this notch in order to get more axle travel. Well I really didn't think the center of the frame was under that much stress especially because we've got support bars running from our upper trailing arms down to the lower trailing arms to take the load. Well. I was wrong! We really noticed something was funny when our body mounts were coming loose, all the time! I would tighten the snot out of them and then they'd be loose again after like 2,000 miles.. Well. Yeah. if the frame is sliding around i'm sure they have trouble staying tight!

Here is what I did to fix the situation back there.. Shouldn't go anywhere now! Ha-Ha.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/FrameTEARMedium_zpsbdf2a66b-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/FrameTEARMedium_zpsbdf2a66b.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/IMG_2330Medium_zpscc87f554-1.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_2330Medium_zpscc87f554.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/IMG_2331Medium_zps0722698f-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_2331Medium_zps0722698f.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/IMG_2333Medium_zps08bf6a2d-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_2333Medium_zps08bf6a2d.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/IMG_2334Medium_zpsad235d49-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_2334Medium_zpsad235d49.jpg.html)

Also, in this process I have been really scientifically trying to get to the bottom of this driveline vibration. I have been working with some guys who have been down this road and I will hopefully report back soon with positive results. As for now I've got the Moser apart for the second time..

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/IMG_2376Medium_zps5683a323-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_2376Medium_zps5683a323.jpg.html)

[andrewb70]

Subscribed...:-)

Andrew

[PhillipM]

We had a Ron Davis radiator in there from the beginning however apparently when you solidly mount them top and bottom they crack. So, after dealing with it for a while and waiting 11 weeks for a new one here is what we did. I finished this up about 2 days before we left for the 2014 Hot Rod Power Tour.. Here are some photos!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/06/IMG_2904_zpsfc0eafab-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_2904_zpsfc0eafab.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_2903_zpsb817af04.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/06/IMG_2902_zpsf6e4b1b5-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_2902_zpsf6e4b1b5.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/06/IMG_2912_zps723336b6-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_2912_zps723336b6.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/06/IMG_2913_zps0856e93d-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_2913_zps0856e93d.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/06/IMG_2911_zpse4797136-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_2911_zpse4797136.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/06/IMG_2910_zps53d7d6c0-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_2910_zps53d7d6c0.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/06/IMG_2909_zps407abb26-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_2909_zps407abb26.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/06/IMG_2908_zpsed242a18-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_2908_zpsed242a18.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/06/IMG_2918_zps3ab5f221-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_2918_zps3ab5f221.jpg.html)

[PhillipM]

And with the previous post just made please morn with me as all that work goes to waste..

After 5,000 + miles of driving and having fun on HRPT 14 all came to an end on the 235 in Des Moines, Iowa. My Dad was driving back to his hotel in the evening and had a deer run out in front of him. So far I've located about 80% of the parts that are needed but I'm just really not looking forward to doing the work again. I felt like I had just gotten the car looking the way I wanted it. However such is life. Here are some photos of the carnage. Luckily everyone (except the deer) is okay.


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/06/DSC00981Medium_zps7fba9a59-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/DSC00981Medium_zps7fba9a59.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/06/DSC00982Medium_zps7c3d8440-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/DSC00982Medium_zps7c3d8440.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/06/DSC00983Medium_zpsddef7eb4-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/DSC00983Medium_zpsddef7eb4.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/06/DSC00984Medium_zps0f68fc13-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/DSC00984Medium_zps0f68fc13.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/DSC00985Medium_zps29012721.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/06/DSC00987Medium_zps2a85e2ee-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/DSC00987Medium_zps2a85e2ee.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/DSC00988Medium_zpsbcb7c784.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/06/DSC00989Medium_zps2ea98e3b-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/DSC00989Medium_zps2ea98e3b.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/06/DSC00990Medium_zps1a0e09bb-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/DSC00990Medium_zps1a0e09bb.jpg.html)

Yesterday I took a long lunch and ran up to DVAP here in Phoenix. I was able to locate a nice front clip. The hood has 1 ding in the front corner but it was the nicest they had. That's just Arizona surface rust so all should clean up nicely. I haven't seen our car in person yet so I bought everything in front of the firewall that they had. I'm still in need of a front bumper and headlight bezels if anyone is hording any I would appreciate the help. Thanks.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/06/IMG_3146Medium_zpscaf237f2-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_3146Medium_zpscaf237f2.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/06/IMG_3143Medium_zps58916dc8-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_3143Medium_zps58916dc8.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/06/IMG_3147Medium_zpsebb1553e-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_3147Medium_zpsebb1553e.jpg.html)

[R32Jordie]

I was just about to commend you on the fabrication work you did around the radiator. Sorry for your loss.

[andrewb70]

Man, that blows...

But how did the CV driveshaft work out for you?

Andrew

[PhillipM]

Man, that blows...

But how did the CV driveshaft work out for you?

Andrew


Still vibrates. Might have it narrowed down to a loose 5th/6th gear cluster in the back of the transmission. I found a few posts on ls1tech that describe our vibe almost to a T.

[WallaceMFG]

It's things like this that make me hate deer even more, sorry it happened to you. But you're right about AZ, you can find solid body parts all day long.

[driveit]

Sorry to see that. I know how that feels. I just gotten my car to where I was driving it and was getting it looking pretty good, then a guy t-bones me in the passenger quarter panel and totaled the car. Got it fixed back now, but has a salvaged title. I'll never sell that car as long as I live. Good luck with the repair work.

[therobski]

Phil, I heard about the deer from Mark, at least Paul is okay and you can rebuild! It was great seeing you all East of Dallas on your way to start the "Power Tour" I am almost certain the 65 headlight bezels are one a year-the 64's will fit but the pattern of those bars in between the bezels will not match the 65 grill. 98312983139831498315

[PhillipM]

Yeah like everything else on the car. 1 year only. We'll find em. Just have to be on the look out. I ran across a 64 pair at the yard. Would have grabbed it but 1 had a ding in it.

[kevin_L]

Sorry to hear about the damage, Dad has a 65 f85 and I think he has a second set of bezels. I'll check with him tomorrow and get back to you.

Here's a pass. side

http://www.ebay.com/itm/1965-Oldsmobile-Cutlass-f-85-RH-Passenger-Side-Headlight-Bezel-Moulding-/191229819532?pt=Vintage_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessorie s&hash=item2c862f7a8c&vxp=mtr

and partial set

http://www.ebay.com/itm/1965-65-CUTLASS-F-85-442-GRILL-END-HEADLIGHT-BUCKET-DRIVER-QUALITY-589820-/121373873232?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item1c42725450&vxp=mtr

[PhillipM]

Yeah I've seen those on there. Trying not to piece them together but if I have to I will. Sometimes being patient is a virtue. I would really appreciate you asking thx!

[therobski]

Phil, Paul my 65 in 68-69! and my 65 442 post car in 72. The other car in the picture is the drivers qtr. of my 69 Grand Prix SJ. The bike was my buddy's sportster-at the time he was driving a 67 442 W-30!

[PhillipM]

Well we put some time in and started mocking up the new front end pieces. Really need to get this stuff blasted so I can start working with it all.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_3306Medium_zps7a7d365c.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/07/IMG_3305Medium_zpse9f240f3-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_3305Medium_zpse9f240f3.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/07/IMG_3307Medium_zpsb80dec01-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_3307Medium_zpsb80dec01.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/07/IMG_3309Medium_zps7a7d365c-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_3309Medium_zps7a7d365c.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/07/IMG_3308Medium_zps4e79e31f-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_3308Medium_zps4e79e31f.jpg.html)

[Dc2x4drvr]

Looks good, you'll be done in no time:)

[therobski]

X2!

[PhillipM]

Needs minitubs! Haha

[mcalvo]

See what your going through makes me realize i am not the only one with terrible luck. I had a freak accident and totaled a freshly restored car. She now rests in pieces but complete and just waiting for the the time and money to go back together. Nice to see your progress.

-Michael

[PhillipM]

While we wait for the new radiator to come from Ron Davis we've continued to switch the car over from Air Ride Ride Pro E2 to a Ride Tech HQ single adjustable coil-over system. Of course you cannot do anything to this car's rear suspension and have the parts fit. The car is so low in the back I've had to lengthen the upper arms to get the pinion angle correct so that means stuff doesn't fit like the aftermarket company may have intended. This continues with the rear coil-over kit. I had to build new upper shock mounts to offset the mount to the rear 3/4" so the coil spring would clear and not hit the axle housing. Here are some pictures. We've obviously since painted the brackets black however these shots show best unpainted.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/08/IMG_3374_zps1e6d0fe2-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_3374_zps1e6d0fe2.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/08/IMG_3372_zpscbcff762-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_3372_zpscbcff762.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/08/IMG_3375_zpsac755f75-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_3375_zpsac755f75.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/08/IMG_3377_zps13178b46-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_3377_zps13178b46.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_3376_zps82082f90.jpg.html)

[Dc2x4drvr]

Nice job!

[PhillipM]

Well it was bound to happen. I did ask Ride Tech when I ordered the rear coil-over kit what the ride height length of the shock was and they told me 15". Great! That's what mine is too. However I had a feeling something wasn't going to be right because of how low our car is. We've all seen the C notches and the ride height. So, after modifying the upper mounts I quickly bolted on the lower mounts and the first thing I noticed is that my brake lines were now too short. Hmm.. Well, after doing some more measuring I found that the upper mount was now dropping the shock about 1.5" and now the axle housing the same amount, and subsequently raising the car the same amount. After a quick email to Darren at Ride Tech he offered to swap the shocks for shorter ones. That was a great offer however then I would be giving up shock travel as well as I don't think the shock would then go long enough to get the wheel and tire off the car. Because not only would the stroke be shorter it has less stroke as well.

So in the end I decided to rework the lower mounts as well. First thing I did was put them in the band saw and get the original mounts cut off. Once they were nice and flat we reinstalled them and set the car at ride height. This way everything would be nice and straight at ride height including the heim joint. Don't think this is really necessary but hey if your there building it from scratch might as well get it right? Here are some pictures of the new lower mounts.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/08/IMG_3431_zpsb2236d8e-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_3431_zpsb2236d8e.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/08/IMG_3433_zpsa1522ea6-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_3433_zpsa1522ea6.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/08/IMG_3430_zps2ecf9205-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_3430_zps2ecf9205.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/08/IMG_3435_zpse363043e-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_3435_zpse363043e.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/08/IMG_3436_zps88791e16-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_3436_zps88791e16.jpg.html)

[Dc2x4drvr]

Nice welds

[PhillipM]

Put the car back on the ground and everything clears and works well with the coil overs. So, we pulled the T56 to begin disassembly. Hoping to find out what the hell is vibrating last and for all.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/08/IMG_3442_zpsf16a51b7-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_3442_zpsf16a51b7.jpg.html)

I found a few guys on LS1 Tech that have fought the same battle so we are going to investigate a little further down the trans road.. Here is a link.

http://ls1tech.com/forums/manual-transmission/1360312-project-fix-damn-5th-6th-gear-high-speed-vibration.html

[driveit]

Wow... you are at it again. Did you get it painted after the accident? If you were in Ky, I would have you build me a set of brackets for my rear coilovers I will be getting.

[GeoffP]

Still vibrates. Might have it narrowed down to a loose 5th/6th gear cluster in the back of the transmission. I found a few posts on ls1tech that describe our vibe almost to a T.

My T56 has the same problem - thanks for posting a link to the possible solution.

[PhillipM]

Just an update. Took the trans apart and our 5/6 gear is nice and tight. So we are looking at the rear axle again. We've got a problem with the differential spider gears coming loose so that could be a clue.

[PhillipM]

Just a small update. Working on the F85 but progress is definitely slow. Have quite a few other projects that we're toying with now as well. Either way, it's coming along!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/10/IMG_3718Large_zpsb8718d59-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_3718Large_zpsb8718d59.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/10/IMG_3717Large_zps174b6ff0-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_3717Large_zps174b6ff0.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/10/IMG_3719Large_zps0aa23a33-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_3719Large_zps0aa23a33.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/10/IMG_3720Large_zpsef4db5f1-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_3720Large_zpsef4db5f1.jpg.html)

[therobski]

Looks real good Phil, I'm still chug-a-lugin along with mine.....Someday I hope my welds will somewhat like yours-those are a work of art.

[PhillipM]

Finally got the lift cleared off so we can work on the F-85 some more. I got the AC condenser mounted as well as getting a good idea on the intercooler mounting. AC condenser is the largest that will fit, that's for sure. It's from Vintage Air. The intercooler is out of a Cobalt SS. Still have a lot of finalization to do but thought you guys would like to see where we're at.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/11/IMG_3967Large_zpsab499391-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_3967Large_zpsab499391.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/11/IMG_3972Large_zps65d58d84-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_3972Large_zps65d58d84.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/11/IMG_3968Large_zpsd62d7e06-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_3968Large_zpsd62d7e06.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/11/IMG_3971Large_zps6fb3a265-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_3971Large_zps6fb3a265.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/11/IMG_3970Large_zpsbc3829e4-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_3970Large_zpsbc3829e4.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/11/IMG_3969Large_zps18bcf8a1-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_3969Large_zps18bcf8a1.jpg.html)

[64G-lark]

Wow Phillip you have been through a lot with that car. Looks nice and the stance is cool. Where did you get the radiator mounts? I have to tackle that before long and have been looking for ideas. The trans tunnel looks good. Wish I had seen this when I was working on mine. I really like the houndstooth interior as well. I have been looking at the Scat Procar seats in houndstooth.

[PhillipM]

Wow Phillip you have been through a lot with that car. Looks nice and the stance is cool. Where did you get the radiator mounts? I have to tackle that before long and have been looking for ideas. The trans tunnel looks good. Wish I had seen this when I was working on mine. I really like the houndstooth interior as well. I have been looking at the Scat Procar seats in houndstooth.

Thanks Mark. The trans tunnel is one of those things that people are afraid to do but once you make the cuts you're free to run much better transmissions. As for the seats we had purchased those for a Camaro project but I agree, I think they look pretty good in the cutlass.


Here are some more updates. Finished the mounts for the intercooler and we rough fit the front bumper.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/12/IMG_3991_zps385c5201-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/IMG_3991_zps385c5201.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/12/IMG_3992_zpse97e0410-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/IMG_3992_zpse97e0410.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/12/IMG_3993_zps82ebe842-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/IMG_3993_zps82ebe842.jpg.html)

[71CUTTYS]

Im guessing the A/C bracket you were running on the 455 was a custom piece? My OEM A/C bracket will not fit with my valve covers on my 468.

[PhillipM]

Im guessing the A/C bracket you were running on the 455 was a custom piece? My OEM A/C bracket will not fit with my valve covers on my 468.


Yes it was a hand made piece. I've got a lot of photos of it. Pm me if you like close ups.

[real57vetteguy]

Im guessing the A/C bracket you were running on the 455 was a custom piece? My OEM A/C bracket will not fit with my valve covers on my 468.

I purchased the Olds Engine from Paul, I have that bracket and as a matter of fact will not be using it, I have switched over to a serpentine set up

[PhillipM]

I've been working on mini tubbing the Olds using one of the ABC performance kits. So far I am glad that I purchased the kit as it has definitely saved a lot of time and energy. I have noticed differences on the BOP frame vs. the frames they show in their instruction manual. Not huge differences but enough to make me rework a few things. Here are a bunch of photos i've taken along the way. I've pretty much got the drivers side tacked all together. Also note that I'm redoing the C notch as well.


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/01/IMG_4237Large_zps157139e2-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4237Large_zps157139e2.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/01/IMG_4238Large_zps395fc109-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4238Large_zps395fc109.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/01/IMG_4239Large_zps7dc2d79d-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4239Large_zps7dc2d79d.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/01/IMG_4240Large_zps73a9331e-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4240Large_zps73a9331e.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/01/IMG_4241Large_zpseb456b6e-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4241Large_zpseb456b6e.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/01/IMG_4248Large_zps87614fc9-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4248Large_zps87614fc9.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/01/IMG_4249Large_zps92d383ad-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4249Large_zps92d383ad.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4250Large_zpsf12c4d26.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/01/IMG_4251Large_zpsb838a92b-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4251Large_zpsb838a92b.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/01/IMG_4264Large_zpsf9e9ad1a-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4264Large_zpsf9e9ad1a.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4266Large_zpsa7bdfe67.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/01/IMG_4267Large_zps42c55590-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4267Large_zps42c55590.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/01/IMG_4269Large_zpsfbfddbdf-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4269Large_zpsfbfddbdf.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/01/IMG_4270Large_zps58369fab-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4270Large_zps58369fab.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/01/IMG_4271Large_zps9d59dda2-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4271Large_zps9d59dda2.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/01/IMG_4272Large_zps8b67acc7-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4272Large_zps8b67acc7.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/01/IMG_4273Large_zpscbd55dec-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4273Large_zpscbd55dec.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4274Large_zps0a325415.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/01/IMG_4276Large_zpsa84714c3-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4276Large_zpsa84714c3.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/01/IMG_4277Large_zpsdbdc4423-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4277Large_zpsdbdc4423.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/01/IMG_4278Large_zpsfe536b8e-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4278Large_zpsfe536b8e.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4279Large_zps99206bd7.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/01/IMG_4309Large_zps4b365765-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4309Large_zps4b365765.jpg.html)

That's where I'm at right now.

[therobski]

Moving along well Phil great welds! I'm just about done wiring everything and may put the dash in next week or so.

[PhillipM]

We're plugging away on the Olds trying to finish up this mini-tub project so we can send the car out and have it blasted. Basically the frame portion of the project is done. It took me right at 20 hours to do the labor. I could probably shave about 5-6 hours off of that if I did it a second time. If you are thinking of doing this PM me and I can send you some "pointers" that aren't in the instructions. Also took a little longer because I re C-notched the car at the same time. Last night we started cutting out the drivers side wheel tub after removing the trunk side body mounts. We had to stop and remove some dynomat so I took the opportunity to mock up an 18x12 and a 315 tire just for some inspiration. Since we don't have the inner tub out all the way the tire doesn't quite go in like it will. But it was still nice to get an idea..

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4390%20Large_zps2ek2anhk.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4400%20Large_zpsyr09iabb.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4397%20Large_zpsyln2mssl.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4395%20Large_zpss84fgpip.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4393%20Large_zpsydxulgaa.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4392%20Large_zpsgsmpmzlj.jpg.html)

[Justin@EntropyRad]

she's looking right!

[PhillipM]

I've been working away on the driver's side wheel tub. I decided to trim off the original transition and to just build a new one. I plan to plug weld it to the body and the tub to it. I also started mocking up the filler strip. It's a 3" strip with 1/2" on either side to plug weld. I think I might leave a little more room on the next one or perhaps make a replacement for this one.. We'll see. Here are some pics of where I'm at so far.. Thanks for looking!
Phillip

Now that the wheel tub is removed I can slide the 315 all the way under the car. This is a mock up tire and measures 12.5" bulge to bulge.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/03/IMG_441920Large_zpshntnxlhp-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4419%20Large_zpshntnxlhp.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/03/IMG_442020Large_zpsditylicc-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4420%20Large_zpsditylicc.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/03/IMG_443120Large_zps6egytvni-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4431%20Large_zps6egytvni.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/03/IMG_443220Large_zps3vd83tci-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4432%20Large_zps3vd83tci.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/03/IMG_442320Large_zpsyepein9m-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4423%20Large_zpsyepein9m.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/03/IMG_442420Large_zpsjrxf1xvo-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4424%20Large_zpsjrxf1xvo.jpg.html)

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https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/03/IMG_445020Large_zpssll4wrmy-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4450%20Large_zpssll4wrmy.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/03/IMG_445120Large_zps9proswpe-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4451%20Large_zps9proswpe.jpg.html)

I ordered some more Clecos to help with the project as about 3/4 of my stock is currently holding the tail end of my Studebaker together! Ha-ha. Either way. Thanks for looking guys.

[Radlark]

Looking good man!!!!

[PhillipM]

Okay haven't updated in a while but we've been hard at work. Scary though I just saw that it's been about 9 months of work so far since the accident. Oh well, the mini-tub has definitely added a lot of labor but it will be cool when it's finished.

I've spent some time working on the new body panels as well. Paul took them and got them dipped. Over all we were pretty darn pleased with the condition of the panels. After filling the holes for "Vista Cruiser" in the fender, and repairing the lower body mount hole as well as welding up a few other spots, we got the antenna hole filled and drilled out the F/85 logo holes. That turned out to be interesting as our old fender was also a replacement and we never noticed how crooked the script was! Either way, the new one is nice and straight.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_464920Large_zpszcefeia2-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4649%20Large_zpszcefeia2.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_465020Large_zpsfx6ob6wm-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4650%20Large_zpsfx6ob6wm.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_465120Large_zpsq0byj6iu-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4651%20Large_zpsq0byj6iu.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_464520Large_zpsp3fobnsk-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4645%20Large_zpsp3fobnsk.jpg.html)

After that I moved on to the hood. Top side is absolutely perfect. But underneath where the latch is needed some repair. Took a little bit for me to decide to cut it out but once I made the decision I knew it was the right one. Just would bug me to know it's there and I'd look at it every time I opened the darn hood. Here are those pics.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_4636_zps5qoghkou-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4636_zps5qoghkou.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_464120Large_zpscoobsmm1-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4641%20Large_zpscoobsmm1.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_464220Large_zpsszegvvtf-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4642%20Large_zpsszegvvtf.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_464320Large_zpskzra3njl-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4643%20Large_zpskzra3njl.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_464420Large_zpsi6x57qf5-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4644%20Large_zpsi6x57qf5.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_464620Large_zps5vi7vqoh-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4646%20Large_zps5vi7vqoh.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_464720Large_zpssk0a4kkk-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4647%20Large_zpssk0a4kkk.jpg.html)

Next I turned back to the body portion of the mini tub. Which, has proved to be way more time and labor intensive than the frame portion. I've had a lot of people ask me if I wish I would have just purchased the tubs from ABC. The answer is no, because you would still have to fit them and that's the hardest part. In the end I don't mind the strips showing so I'd rather save the 500 bucks for something else. Here are some more shots of cutting and moving the tubs in. I went 3" rather than the 2 or 2.5" of the ABC tubs. It's just about the most you can go and still leave the trunk springs in place.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_4558_zpsxpiowecg-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4558_zpsxpiowecg.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_4559_zps4jhrf3lv-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4559_zps4jhrf3lv.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_4561_zpsryfkojad-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4561_zpsryfkojad.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/03/IMG_445120Large_zps9proswpe-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4451%20Large_zps9proswpe.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_463120Large_zpstrs9b2sc-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4631%20Large_zpstrs9b2sc.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_472020Large_zpss1dbqphr-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4720%20Large_zpss1dbqphr.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_472120Large_zpszoc8qmel-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4721%20Large_zpszoc8qmel.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_472220Large_zpswx4tbdha-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4722%20Large_zpswx4tbdha.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_472320Large_zps19v33ukb-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4723%20Large_zps19v33ukb.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_472420Large_zpstnbqwzrb-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4724%20Large_zpstnbqwzrb.jpg.html)

[PhillipM]

Once the tubs we're moved I could really get the new Moser 9" up in there which was narrowed to 56.5" OAL. This will have us run a 20x10.5 with 6" of back space on the 315 Nitto tire. This is also the time when I wished I would have C notched it about another .75". However it will still work, I've got 3.75" of bump travel before hitting the frame. That should be enough. Here is the mock up.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_4472_zpsv23tb3lo-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4472_zpsv23tb3lo.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_4466_zpsxehttxd1-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4466_zpsxehttxd1.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_4467_zpstou5ni74-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4467_zpstou5ni74.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_4469_zpsbqococdc-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4469_zpsbqococdc.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_4471_zpsycmruzdk-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4471_zpsycmruzdk.jpg.html)

Next, it was time to start getting the body mounts put back on. So I got those moved back roughly 2" on each side and proceeded filling out from the front of those up to the tubs. There are a lot of ways to do this but I just added a piece and plug welded it. I will seam seal and bed liner everything in the end so your just not going to see this stuff. Either way, it still turned out nice and clean. In my opinion.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4654%20Large_zpskwj44rxj.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_465620Large_zps2gnsxius-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4656%20Large_zps2gnsxius.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_465520Large_zpsocmokxj5-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4655%20Large_zpsocmokxj5.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4653%20Large_zps7jadpew4.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_466520Large_zpslexjpgqx-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4665%20Large_zpslexjpgqx.jpg.html)

I also started working on getting the trunk supports put back on. They aren't finished but they are strong enough to mount the trunk lid and check the fit. Happy to say it's still in the right spot! Ha-ha. I did have my concerns.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_472520Large_zpshlzyol70-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4725%20Large_zpshlzyol70.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_472820Large_zpscqdoadv9-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4728%20Large_zpscqdoadv9.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_472620Large_zpsis9bjtrv-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4726%20Large_zpsis9bjtrv.jpg.html)

And that's where we stand today. I still am just finishing up a lot of welding here and there. Then I will seam seal the body and shoot it with beadliner again. Also, I have a few spots to finish welding on the frame and then I can spot in the GM Recon paint and call that puppy done. I read somewhere that this project is a 100 hour job. Well, so far I'm right at about 80 hours of labor. Granted this is my first one but I don't believe I would sign up for a second one! LOL.

[PhillipM]

Was able to get a little more time on the Olds last night I finally finished up the tubs and am ready to bed liner the trunk and tubs again. Total time to do the frame and body mods was 82 hours. I'm sure others have done it faster! LOL. We also swung by the body shop and they've got the new fender and hood as wells as the core support coming right a long.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4734_zpsw7rh0vwk.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4731_zps93cwqnk7.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_4741_zps0guyh2mo-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4741_zps0guyh2mo.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_4740_zps6lnir5v6-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4740_zps6lnir5v6.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_4739_zpszp9inrto-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4739_zpszp9inrto.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_4736_zpscvl8kdqb-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4736_zpscvl8kdqb.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_4737_zpsxqvivywe-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4737_zpsxqvivywe.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_4738_zpsljndompy-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4738_zpsljndompy.jpg.html)

[Motown 454]

As always nice work!

[PhillipM]

As always nice work!

Thanks Wayne!

Here are a few more pictures of everything coming together.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_4755_zpshysquftu-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4755_zpshysquftu.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_4757_zpsef9tpekh-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4757_zpsef9tpekh.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_4763_zpsck5w2nb0-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4763_zpsck5w2nb0.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_4768_zpst6dwmyhz-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4768_zpst6dwmyhz.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_4770_zpsluxyssoh-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4770_zpsluxyssoh.jpg.html)

[therobski]

Excellent craftmanship Phil! I need to update my thread on the 64.

[PhillipM]

Well haven't updated in a while. Piece by piece the body is starting to come together. The hood, core support, inner fenders and passenger fender have all been painted with GM Recon. Driver's fender is coming a long as well as we've been filling a bunch of dents, dings and chips in the rest of the body. Had a paint-less dent guy come out and remove what he could before we started in on it. Really not much to fix. Had one dent behind the drivers door and other than that just small stuff. We're also starting to paint small parts and pieces as they are finished up. Here are some updated pictures.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_4888_zpskqcyxwvm-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4888_zpskqcyxwvm.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_4889_zpsgj7r1kac-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4889_zpsgj7r1kac.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4891_zpsemmhzube.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_4886_zpsdsp5xq4i-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4886_zpsdsp5xq4i.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_4902_zpsnjk6gbmt-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4902_zpsnjk6gbmt.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_4903_zpsw2nt1pa3-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4903_zpsw2nt1pa3.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_4863_zpsnavhws07-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4863_zpsnavhws07.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_4880_zps5n9afytu-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4880_zps5n9afytu.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_4883_zpsfbodeok3-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4883_zpsfbodeok3.jpg.html)

Also here is a shot of how our rear brake lines are run.. We've got a tee on the front side of he cross member and then a soft line on each side. Nice thing about this way is you don't have to re-bleed the rear when you remove the axle. Which, we tend to do a lot.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_4895_zpspqlaimpm-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4895_zpspqlaimpm.jpg.html)

That's all for now. Will update again when we get some more progress under our belts.

[PhillipM]

Got the Driver's fender put into Recon last night. 1 piece at a time we're getting things done.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_4930_zps77tnjd3j-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4930_zps77tnjd3j.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_4931_zpsmizjstb2-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4931_zpsmizjstb2.jpg.html)

[ent72olds]

Phil, if I may ask, why the GM recon paint? You don't plan on leaving it that way for long I hope?

[PhillipM]

The car is actually going to be vinyl wrapped. The recon is easy to spray, very forgiving and I've had great luck with it holding up well. All we're really trying to do is get a smooth finish that is sealed in which the wrap can live on. Have you had bad experiences with it? Or why the concerns? It is a lacquer based paint so everything that goes along with that are it's ups and downs I suppose. The wrap will be matte metallic silver on the bottom and matte charcoal gray on top. Using Avery products to do the wrap.

[PhillipM]

Here are some more photos. I'm using the Upol primer that I've always used under the Recon. In case anyone was wondering. It's worked great and lasted for years with no issues. Got the doors hose down with a nice coat and will sand them out and shoot them this weekend hopefully.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_495720Large_zpsedkbbrpb-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4957%20Large_zpsedkbbrpb.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_495320Large_zpsh1vsi8mt-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4953%20Large_zpsh1vsi8mt.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMG_495420Large_zpslinfc5cu-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4954%20Large_zpslinfc5cu.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4955%20Large_zps1popuzl4.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_4956%20Large_zpsnwzhg3ne.jpg.html)

[ent72olds]

Being you are wrapping it, it will be fine. The recon paint just wasn't intended as a paint to be subjected to much UV. More for chassis and underhood parts. I would be afraid in the extreme sun you guys see in the southwest. Keep up the impressive work! Love the project!

[PhillipM]

Being you are wrapping it, it will be fine. The recon paint just wasn't intended as a paint to be subjected to much UV. More for chassis and underhood parts. I would be afraid in the extreme sun you guys see in the southwest. Keep up the impressive work! Love the project!

Hmm. Here is from the website:


Paint is not affected by UV ray exposure as with other chassis paints
Dries to the touch in 15-20 minutes
May be applied by brush or spray gun
May be reduced with enamel reducer, xylene, or mineral spirits
Easily touched up
Can be applied as a affordable long lasting exterior paint
Affordable - One gallon can should cover complete frame, chassis, and under hood sheet metal for your restoration


Says UV stable, but like you said. It's going under a wrap so that's kind of negligible.

[PhillipM]

Here is a quick update!

Got pretty much all the unbolt-able parts painted and now on to the main tub. Put up a make shift booth in the shop and shot 3 coats of high build on her. We're now ready to start blocking it out.. definitely not looking forward to all the sanding.

In the mean time our Rushforth wheels showed up. Specs in the front are same as before 19x8 with 6" back space. The rears are now 20x10.5 with 6" of BS. Tire is a Nitto NT05R in a 315. I've got 1/2" on the inside and on the outside for clearance. Probably could have gone 5.75" BS and pushed it out just a scosh more but that's okay.

As for installing the rears... When I reworked the lower coil-over mounts the axle raised up in the car 1.5" and doesn't droop as far for the same reason.. When I say these barely squeeze past the rotor and the outter wheel well i'm not even joking. I hit the wheel weight and had to rotate the tire to get it in there! But once in it fits perfect. Here are some pics. Sorry about the lighting but I couldn't wait. Had to get some shots!!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/07/IMG_5135_zpsydaxmewt-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_5135_zpsydaxmewt.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/07/IMG_5136_zps6nfsvzhg-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_5136_zps6nfsvzhg.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/07/IMG_5139_zps8s6d9qkm-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_5139_zps8s6d9qkm.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/07/IMG_5144_zpsjbdadh73-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_5144_zpsjbdadh73.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_5149_zpsrpjulqhf.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/07/IMG_5151_zps6of0bs8f-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_5151_zps6of0bs8f.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/07/IMG_515220LOWERED_zpskzlqxaza-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_5152%20LOWERED_zpskzlqxaza.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/07/IMG_515420LOWERED_zpsphkghubb-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_5154%20LOWERED_zpsphkghubb.jpg.html)

[therobski]

Looks really good Phillip. Next year the Power Tour starts in Louisiana I bet it comes through Texas?? I may get a piece of it the 64 F-85.

[oldzzy]

Looks really good! I love seeing updates on this car, it's probably my second favorite Olds build behind the 71 that Jeff Schwartz built. Keep the updates coming!

[Motown 454]

Looking good Philip.

[PhillipM]

Thanks guys! It's great to hear the compliments!

[PhillipM]

After spending a bunch of time fixing what we could, we finally got the car sprayed black. Let's be honest, this car needs a driver's side quarter panel so until I come across a super clean one of those there is no point in trying to do a super nice paint job. These pics were taking about 30 minutes after spraying the car. Hoping to roll it outside and get some better shots of it tomorrow.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/07/IMG_5247_zpsa0gzy8dx-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_5247_zpsa0gzy8dx.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_5248_zps6uvdxfnj.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/07/IMG_5253_zpsrtuxkavp-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_5253_zpsrtuxkavp.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_5254_zpsr1kkgllj.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/07/IMG_5255_zpsd40mtlj2-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_5255_zpsd40mtlj2.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_5257_zpsgvweotpp.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/07/IMG_5258_zpsxzyqaaef-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_5258_zpsxzyqaaef.jpg.html)

Next I plan to jamb the car in Silver to match the vinyl wrap. However I think I'll let this cure for a few days because of the temps. It's been very humid here over the last few days.

[Motown 454]

Looking Good.

[PhillipM]

Maybe the deer won't see us with the black. Haha

[PhillipM]

Here are some better pics of the paint...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/07/DSC_019420Large_zpsmgyuygbn-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/DSC_0194%20Large_zpsmgyuygbn.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/07/DSC_019520Large_zpsmuql9g1b-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/DSC_0195%20Large_zpsmuql9g1b.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/07/DSC_019620Large_zpsdnr1kx1x-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/DSC_0196%20Large_zpsdnr1kx1x.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/07/DSC_019720Large_zpscfjjva1k-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/DSC_0197%20Large_zpscfjjva1k.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/07/DSC_019820Large_zpsopyvqfgx-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/DSC_0198%20Large_zpsopyvqfgx.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/07/DSC_020020Large_zpswun8tmih-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/DSC_0200%20Large_zpswun8tmih.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/07/DSC_020220Large_zpsi9bhqndh-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/DSC_0202%20Large_zpsi9bhqndh.jpg.html)

[PhillipM]

Got a little more finished on the Olds over the weekend. We got the LS6 put back in between the frame rails as well as the T56. I laid out the harness and started hooking things back up. I've also decided to upgrade from the standard Vintage Air wiring setup with a binary switch to running the AC through the ECU. This is to eliminate the rough idle when you first turn on the A/C. So I had to run the 5 additional wires that requires. I picked up a neat trick for marking wires that I'll show below. I don't remember who on LS1 tech posted it but it worked out great. Below are some pics..

For starters I decided to reshoot the doors in the Silver. Originally I had planned to just use rattle can clear to seal in the paint but it looked terrible and was very rough. So I marched back down to the paint store and grabbed a quart of matte clear. This turned out way nicer, and is what I used on the rest of the jambs.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_5345_zps2x2idwlq.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_5351_zpsdem703h5.jpg.html)

Next even though we will have to take it all back off to put the doors on we threw the front fenders on the car so I can do some rewiring as well as I need to remake the brake lines to fit with my new master cylinder. It sure was nice to see it going back together for once.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/08/IMG_5337_zpsdnd6k6b1-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_5337_zpsdnd6k6b1.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/08/IMG_5336_zpsyqjyof9z-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_5336_zpsyqjyof9z.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_5353_zpsxfbpw3ic.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/08/IMG_5356_zpsrxeyxgpv-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_5356_zpsrxeyxgpv.jpg.html)

Can you believe all of that fits on top of the stock glove box? I can't.. Haha

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/08/IMG_5354_zpsthfvy3gw-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_5354_zpsthfvy3gw.jpg.html)

Also, here is the trick I picked up. I just put one end of my new wires in the vice and pulled them out. Then I ran a sharpie of contrasting color down the length. Viola, now my small stash of 5 or 6 different wire colors have many more options! Simple but I never thought of it.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/08/IMG_5348_zpsqt7ywsme-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_5348_zpsqt7ywsme.jpg.html)

I hope to get a bunch more done including redoing my under hood fuse/relay panel with an OEM level setup. I should have more pictures of that to come.

[PhillipM]

Last time I rebuilt the car I put together a relay panel at the front of the car to handle things like the intercooler pump, horn, headlights, fan and a few other things. It turned out okay but I really thought I could do better this time around. So, I found an OEM panel at a buddies shop and decided to also mount it so I could accesses it without too much trouble should I need to. Below the air intake pipe seemed like the best spot. After making a hand full of templates and getting the panel mounted I was finally ready to trim the panel. Turned out well and should be very functional. I now have more than enough circuits.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/08/IMG_537920Large_zpsc6dzfzf0-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_5379%20Large_zpsc6dzfzf0.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_5381%20Large_zpsfswn10gm.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/08/IMG_538420Large_zpsvsdhklzv-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_5384%20Large_zpsvsdhklzv.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/08/IMG_538520Large_zpsxha5ecp1-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_5385%20Large_zpsxha5ecp1.jpg.html)

[Motown 454]

Well hidden you won't even know its there.

[PhillipM]

Just a small update. Finally got our new brake master and booster plumbed in. Looking forward to have some extra power from the 9" booster vs the 8". I also replumbed some other sections of my brake system. You know, just freshening up some stuff.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_5536_zpsuynn2iis-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_5536_zpsuynn2iis.jpg.html)

[PhillipM]

It's been a while, and I've been working on a bunch of stuff that isn't really seen. But we've got the doors put on now and also installed a rear brake bias controller. We never had one before and didn't have an issue but I thought since the lines were empty I figured I'd plumb one in. Also, we picked up another box full of our trim from polisher. They've got this trim looking absolutely bitchin. Probably too nice for this car. Ha-ha.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_5553_zpscptvqfui-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_5553_zpscptvqfui.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_5555_zpsow5mf4k1-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_5555_zpsow5mf4k1.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_5575_zpsnqybohde-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_5575_zpsnqybohde.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_5573_zpsajtfqrff-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_5573_zpsajtfqrff.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_5574_zpslhq7miqb-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_5574_zpslhq7miqb.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_5572_zpscvxf7b5m-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_5572_zpscvxf7b5m.jpg.html)

[PhillipM]

Pulled the front fender wells off as I forgot to bed liner the bottom sides. I really prefer to have them this way as it keeps them from chipping but also keeps the noise from rocks and such down. I used the same Rhino Liner that I used in trunk.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_5594_zpspuhyqooc-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_5594_zpspuhyqooc.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMG_5595_zpsixakh5cu-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_5595_zpsixakh5cu.jpg.html)

Side note, you can see the original hood in the back ground. Poor thing didn't have a lick of rust on it.

[oldzzy]

That Rhino Liner looks good

[PhillipM]

I knew going in to the mini tub that I would have to move the rear cage bars in to clear the new wheel tubs. Turned out to not be that difficult. Still took me a few hours, however it's coming along. Here are a couple shots of the new setup.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/10/IMG_5633_zpszomsbumr-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_5633_zpszomsbumr.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/10/IMG_5651_zpsivjrdhs4-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_5651_zpsivjrdhs4.jpg.html)

[tommycomfort]

Holy cow Phillip! After you commented on our Chevelle thread I figured I would check out what you had going. Flat out amazing work! Not sure how I missed it for so long, but looking forward to following along now.

[Motown 454]

Nice job Phillip.

[PhillipM]

Thanks Tom and Wayne! We took the car to a friends shop to have him help align the front sheet metal. It's amazing that when you know what to look for you can identify the problems very quickly. ha-ha

[PhillipM]

Rolled her outside for a little sun bathing before they vinyl wrap the car tomorrow morning. Can't wait to see it done. I'll post a bunch of photos.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/10/IMG_569020copy_zpstv681duk-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/IMG_5690%20copy_zpstv681duk.jpg.html)

[Motown 454]

The stance looks great with those big wheels on there.

[csouth]

Been watching this for a long time and finally playing catch up. That looks real good! Those cars get overlooked far too often. Can't wait till see the finished product.

[64G-lark]

Looking good Phillip. That last picture looks really good. Can't wait to see the wrap.

[PhillipM]

Okay some of the specs. It took 2 guys 11 hours to wrap the car. The material and colors we used are Avery Matte Metallic Silver and Avery Matte Metallic Charcoal. We did have a few issues with the paint lifting when they peeled it back to re-position it but this only happened on panels that we're just scuffed and shot. All of the panels that got blasted and primed/painted had zero problems working with the vinyl. I really love the way it's coming together and can't wait to roll it outside in the sun and really get a look at it. It's been raining off and on here in Phoenix for a few days so that hasn't quite happened yet. I asked the guys what I can use to clean the wrap with and he told me I can just use denatured alcohol in a spritz bottle and a rag. I may look into this more but seemed good to me.

I also had my GoPro running however I forgot to turn off the preview screen in the back so it only ran for about 2 hours. I turned that into a time lapse video thats about a minute and a half long. Here is the footage from that.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KQOj5pBohpQ&feature=youtu.be

Here are the photos...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/10/2_zpsee3vf2ce-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/2_zpsee3vf2ce.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/10/1_zpsdbutv6p4-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/1_zpsdbutv6p4.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/10/3_zpsdesa8bzp-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/3_zpsdesa8bzp.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/10/4_zpshvwnhrhu-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/4_zpshvwnhrhu.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/10/5_zpsko35pybc-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/5_zpsko35pybc.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/10/6_zpsnuqque1u-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/6_zpsnuqque1u.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/10/7_zpsiqrfhx4m-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/7_zpsiqrfhx4m.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/10/8_zpsrlb0uhax-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/8_zpsrlb0uhax.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/10/9_zpsevucix1e-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/9_zpsevucix1e.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/10/10_1_zps7b45etor-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/10_1_zps7b45etor.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/10/14_zps1mfe4ouz-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/14_zps1mfe4ouz.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/10/15_zpsjqvk4pu1-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/15_zpsjqvk4pu1.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/10/16_zpstsfz15ny-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/16_zpstsfz15ny.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/10/17_zpsdspnti6w-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/17_zpsdspnti6w.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/10/18_zpskzumyhpc-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/18_zpskzumyhpc.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/10/23_zpstlgdklbv-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/23_zpstlgdklbv.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/10/25_zpsklqa6wh4-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/25_zpsklqa6wh4.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/10/26_zpsryebflsf-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/26_zpsryebflsf.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/10/27_zpswydvltki-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/27_zpswydvltki.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/10/28_zps1fzaaqt2-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/28_zps1fzaaqt2.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/10/29_zpsdn0gb2e3-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/29_zpsdn0gb2e3.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/30_zpsxkwo2wxu.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/10/32_zpsvw6bdwez-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/32_zpsvw6bdwez.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/10/35_zpsdbpzpnmr-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/35_zpsdbpzpnmr.jpg.html)

[CampbellshotrodsAZ]

Looking cool!

[Motown 454]

Damn that looks nice!

[cbpldc]

That wrap looks sharp!

Chris

[PhillipM]

Thought you guys might like to see some more photos. These are closer up with the trim going back on.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/10/IMG_571620Large_zpsyv4zkf6l-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_5716%20Large_zpsyv4zkf6l.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/10/IMG_571720Large_zpsfy46cg1i-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_5717%20Large_zpsfy46cg1i.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/10/IMG_572020Large_zpstylscqhv-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_5720%20Large_zpstylscqhv.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/10/IMG_571920Large_zpskiaqkkug-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_5719%20Large_zpskiaqkkug.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_5725%20copy_zpsl3ho6nbl.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/10/IMG_572420copy_zpsvbfrxt3a-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_5724%20copy_zpsvbfrxt3a.jpg.html)

[olds87]

Cool update.

[PhillipM]

I've had a lot of people asking how the wrap is done.. Is it like wall paper, is it like a sticker, do you get it wet to install it... Things I never thought I'd hear. Well here is a small clip of it going on. Granted, like anything else, these guys make it look super easy. The material is very thin. Even a piece of dirt under it will show through in the final product. Yes it's sticky back like a sticker but has way more technology built into it than a simple piece of vinyl. No, you don't get it wet, well, unless you want too. Ha-ha.

Here is a short clip:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QxSF3mGWQw0

[PhillipM]

I realized I hadn't posted an update in a while. We've really been focusing on the small details and getting ready to fire it back up after a year and a half. We've got some parts out being powder coated as well as waiting on a few items to come back from the polisher. I snapped a few photos of the engine bay. It's about 98% done. I just need to fix a few details.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_6049%20Large_zpsqtxedzqw.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/12/IMG_604820Large_zps0dilfoik-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_6048%20Large_zps0dilfoik.jpg.html)

Also, I hooked up the battery and turned the key on to make sure all was in order. The intercooler pump then spewed coolant all over the front, out of the top of the reservoir. Apparently you need to plumb the pump correctly for that not to happen. Unfortunately at this point I'm beyond designing, and into making things work. A few things like the angle of the inlet on the intercooler are basically fixed now so I had to get creative on plumbing the pump back in correctly. It will all be hidden behind the bumper so that's not really a big deal.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/12/IMG_610620Large_zpscpc6ldur-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_6106%20Large_zpscpc6ldur.jpg.html)

I also decided to add some bump stops in the back. I just don't feel comfortable without them. If the shocks were to bottom out that would put a great deal of stress on the stock shock mounts which were never designed to take the weight of the car, let a lone bottoming out on it.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/12/IMG_610420Large_zpsqhcrpgaf-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_6104%20Large_zpsqhcrpgaf.jpg.html)

That's it for now. Hopefully the next post will be after fire up.

[keepat]

Awesome car and great job!!
Pat

[therobski]

Really nice, its been awhile since we all communicated. I will try and get the 64 F-85 in the street with AC on! and get on the 2016 Tour if you guys are going. I heard it may come back this way through Dallas or Texas somewhere. I need to update my thread too, here a few pictures. Again I like it!!! ( No I love it)

[64G-lark]

Wow Phillip the wrap looks great! I like the colors and it looks like the top matches the wheel centers.

[PhillipM]

Wow Phillip the wrap looks great! I like the colors and it looks like the top matches the wheel centers.

Thanks! Yes that was a happy accident as that is not the center wheel color I actually ordered. I wanted the Brushed Ti powder but when Jason had them redone they came back Brushed Gun Metal. He apologized and I said holy cow. This is even better than I'd hoped for! Haha. In person it's almost a dead on match color wise. I'm excited to roll it out in the sun when it's all finished. That silver should really pop.

[PhillipM]

Well... 16 months after taking out Bambi I drove the car up and down the street in front of the shop. It really is a good feeling to have the Deer Slayer moving again under its own power. While we continue to try and finish up some small details here are a couple more pictures. We test fit the grille I pulled out of the Arizona desert. It's cleaning up okay but we'd definitely like to find a nicer one. Here are some shots of it after about 4 hours of steel wool and polishing wheels. After that Paul took to the paint brush and got the black put back in the recesses as well as silver paint along the bottom to match the rest.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/01/IMG_6142_zpsn7snxwtf-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_6142_zpsn7snxwtf.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/01/IMG_6149_zpszpjq5xfz-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_6149_zpszpjq5xfz.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/01/IMG_6150_zps7em0mo8a-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_6150_zps7em0mo8a.jpg.html)

Also, we spent some time getting the two tone trim put back on. Some of the clips were still in great shape and some, not so much. So one side is now on. Every piece of trim that goes back on really does make the car look even better. The contrast of the bright work and the matte finish looks great in my opinion.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/01/IMG_6141_zpsu0set744-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_6141_zpsu0set744.jpg.html)

And finally this is after the very first drive. The new Mark Williams 3rd member had been sitting around the shop for about 5 years so it took some time for the clutches to quiet down but so far everything seems to be coming together. Next we need to get the bumper put back on and schedule the interior shop to install the new headliner. Won't be long now boys! :usa:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/01/IMG_6138_zps89ibvtlz-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_6138_zps89ibvtlz.jpg.html)

[PhillipM]

Paul and I got the bumper and the headlight buckets put back on last night. Man this stuff is shiny! Haha. We're just missing 1 last piece of trim that is getting re chromed. Soon the surgery will be over! After that we started the car up and realized the temp gauge quit working. Going to need to look into that now. Not sure why she's fighting us at the last minute. I also made an appointment to have the new headliner installed. We've enjoyed the original "patina'd" head liner but I think with all the new updates it's time to let go. So a new headliner from Legendary Auto Interiors is here along with new visors and sail panels. We're into the home stretch now for sure.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/01/IMG_615120Large_zps5whcimj1-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_6151%20Large_zps5whcimj1.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/01/IMG_615320Large_zpsj73mlfpm-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_6153%20Large_zpsj73mlfpm.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/01/IMG_615520Large_zpsvtoib8me-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_6155%20Large_zpsvtoib8me.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/01/IMG_615420Large_zpsgfgvjqzv-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_6154%20Large_zpsgfgvjqzv.jpg.html)

On a side note the Power Tour 16 route was leaked today from the cover of a Hot Rod issue. Here ya go.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/10653482_10207737459011142_2032526155398140366_n_z psjwcyvfg5.jpg.html)

[andrewb70]

Love the look of this car!!!

Andrew

[PhillipM]

Love the look of this car!!!

Andrew

That means a lot Andrew. Thanks!

[csouth]

Man, that is a beauty!... Should turn lots of heads on Power Tour...

[PhillipM]

Man, that is a beauty!... Should turn lots of heads on Power Tour...

As long as it doesn't turn Bambi's head.. We're good Chris! Haha.

Here is a real short video of it running again. I had the resonators off getting coated.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ncMkoyEKnrM&feature=youtu.be

[andrewb70]

Man....this makes me want to sand the Cougar down and wrap it.

Is there a website you can point me to for getting the material and the available colors?

Andrew

[PhillipM]

Man....this makes me want to sand the Cougar down and wrap it.

Is there a website you can point me to for getting the material and the available colors?

Andrew

We're super happy with the wrap. Here is where I bought my samples from (I'm using Avery but only because they had the colors I wanted. I've used 3M too and it's a very good product as you'd expect from 3M). You can also order your material there, but if you are going to have an installer do it, usually they get it locally. Just be sure to tell them before hand that you want to keep the extra material. Vinyl is like paint. Each roll is slightly different just like if you mixed paint two seperate times. Sometimes you don't notice, sometimes it's real obvious.

http://www.metrorestyling.com/category-s/1230.htm

Order the 12x12 samples if you're serious. Order the 3x5 if you're just playing around with the idea. I taped them to the hood, side, trunk with painters tape and rolled it outside, looked at it inside, you know, really got a feel for how the colors would look in different lighting. Then you can also lightly install them and see how they look over the concave and convex contours of the body.

[PhillipM]

Here is a unique project idea I had. I've always run Spintech mufflers in the past, but on this car with the supercharger people were suggesting I go Magnaflow. Cool, however this thing was WAY TOO loud in a bad way. Super raspy and almost ear splitting at WOT. So, we put these resonators on it. They were the shortest 3" ones that Magnaflow sold. Problem is, that made the car really too quiet. Instead of ripping it all out and going with something else, I wanted try out a unique idea I had to really fine tune the sound between the two pieces. I think it came together nice.

I wanted to use aluminum, just because I didn’t want to make it heavier than it needed to be. So, I originally got some 3” tubing. Well shoot. It doesn’t fit inside. So I cut it and tried to squeeze it down to fit and weld it back up. Didn’t work. I ended up with an oval’ish tube.

Next I ordered 2.75” tubing. Come to find out that’s about what the 3” resonators are in the middle. They we’re loose going in but tightened up some in the middle. Problem was I still had a 3” hole at the end with 2.75” tubing. Can’t really weld that too well. Tried one of those exhaust pipe expanders from Harbor Freight. Broke that instantly, go figure. Next I was thinking I’d go to a muffler shop and just have them expand it. Which would have worked, but probably cost like 20 bucks. Then I thought some more. When you squeeze sheet metal it gets longer. So, if I put it in the bead roller and pinch the heck out of it, then rolled it, is should get bigger, stretching it out. Sure did. Good thing I’ve got a huge motor on there. It didn’t even flinch at turning it even though I’d tightened it down with pliers. I didn’t get a shot of before but you can see where I rolled it to enlarge it. Got it welded, sanded and bolted up. It took the raspness out of regular driving but whoa buddy, she’s still loud as hell at WOT. Will probably leave it like this for now. Might end up cutting a few more inches off but we’ll see. I’d like to drive it with the interior in it.

As for the flanges, I just traced an old gasket and cut those out of aluminum. I still need to do some final sanding on them to match the contour of the flange currently on the exhaust system, but I was excited to get it in and hear what it sounded like.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/01/IMG_616920Large_zpsu1azhkgy-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_6169%20Large_zpsu1azhkgy.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/01/IMG_617020Large_zpsdt39hrit-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_6170%20Large_zpsdt39hrit.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/01/IMG_617120Large_zpstffvbrqe-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_6171%20Large_zpstffvbrqe.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/01/IMG_617220Large_zpsdycraxhg-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_6172%20Large_zpsdycraxhg.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_6173%20Large_zpsbjrlkvbo.jpg.html)

[PhillipM]

Drove the Deer Slayer to work this week! Besides having a small coolant leak from the supercharger canister, and having my hood latch break so far so good. I did notice that the driver's side header is also hitting the frame so we need to shimmy the engine in the mounts and rotate it some to get a little clearance. Here are some shots I took after getting to work. Really feels good to get behind the wheel again.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/01/IMG_6259_zps8wltwo5p-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_6259_zps8wltwo5p.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/01/IMG_6258_zpselbgpdn1-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_6258_zpselbgpdn1.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/01/IMG_6262_zpsoy6efb7z-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_6262_zpsoy6efb7z.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/01/IMG_6261_zpszeaapisf-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_6261_zpszeaapisf.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/01/IMG_6260_zpsasylsn6n-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_6260_zpsasylsn6n.jpg.html)

[Motown 454]

The car looks great Philip.

[PhillipM]

Thank you Wayne!

[PhillipM]

After driving the Slayer around I noticed I had coolant leak out of the intercooler reservoir. It was weird, it wouldn't leak until the system built some pressure. Then it would drip out about a paint can size mark. then stop. I knew I needed to pressure test and locate the leak. For this I have a second cap that has a schrader valve in it. So I put some air in there and sure enough, a small stream shot out of the welded area. Dang. So I go grab a silver marker to mark where the repair needed to be and it's not spraying any more. Okay, so I put some more air in there. BAM! blew the whole side of it out! Turned out to be okay because there were some other leaks that I didn't see at first. This area took a pretty hard hit so I'm not really surprised. I went ahead and got the tank pulled out and got it repaired. I ended up re JB welding around the NPT port as I've repaired it here before. Hopefully JB weld over JB weld sticks!!. I don't see why it wouldn't.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/02/IMG_627820Large_zpsoxwnnvks-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_6278%20Large_zpsoxwnnvks.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/02/IMG_628420Large_zpsf67l9yer-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_6284%20Large_zpsf67l9yer.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/02/IMG_628520Large_zpsas1tvych-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_6285%20Large_zpsas1tvych.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/02/IMG_628820Large_zpsrqgekh3k-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_6288%20Large_zpsrqgekh3k.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/02/IMG_630020Large_zps9rckhsjy-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_6300%20Large_zps9rckhsjy.jpg.html)


Also, in my never ending quest to reduce NVH in this car. I've switched from a Silicone intake coupler to a bellows style rubber one. The new rubber one from Spectre has way more movement. The silicone one was almost like that tube was solidly mounted. Here are the before and after shots of that.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_6260%20Large_zpswwuksj7i.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/02/IMG_629820Large_zps6tnrstjb-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_6298%20Large_zps6tnrstjb.jpg.html)

That's all for now. Hoping to get out there again on Wednesday night and confirm my tank repairs are good, then get it sanded and repainted for install.

[PhillipM]

More upgrades? Haha, not sure if they are really upgrades, however after having a friend ride in the car he mentioned that it felt like the rear trailing arms were solid. I explained that no, I have rubber in the upper ears on the 9". Well, I do, however the mounts at the body were solid as that's how Metco builds their adjustable bars. I figured, at this point it wouldn't hurt to swap those out with rubber to try and dampen my vibes..

After searching and searching I found that no one really makes a nice performance rubber mount in the correct width for the A body and with a 3/4" 16 tube adapter. So, I built my own. I started with a piece of 2.25" .25" wall DOM and bored it out on the lathe to match the Moog press in bushings. The bushings have a step in them but that was not too difficult to add really. I then grabbed some old bars that I had built for something else and was able to salvage the tube for this new set. Notched them in the mill and simply welded them on. That description really makes it sound fast but I've got about 5 hours in the whole thing including swapping them out and paint drying.

I haven't driven the car yet but I will of course report back if they make any changes.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/03/IMG_6567_zpsqoe39n1i-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_6567_zpsqoe39n1i.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/03/IMG_6568_zpsq38withy-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_6568_zpsq38withy.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/03/IMG_6569_zpsuqmqleqv-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_6569_zpsuqmqleqv.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/03/IMG_6570_zpso0smtqjo-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_6570_zpso0smtqjo.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_6575_zpsk115yehw.jpg.html)

[therobski]

Really neat work Phil. Hope to see you guys on the Tour when it stops in Dallas

[Reckn8]

You better be there Robski !!

[therobski]

I will Paul may take the last leg to OKC.

[PhillipM]

We'll be there for sure!

[PhillipM]

Some feedback on the new Moog rubber upper trailing arm mounts.. they have really masked about 50% of the vibrations felt. I think I've decided that all new cars vibrate, they just use nice rubber to isolate it so you don't feel it! Haha

Along that theory, I've got a nice set of GM rubber engine mounts I might swap in for the Poly ones and see what that does!

[PhillipM]

I thought I'd give a small update. Anyone that knows us, or has read through this thread, or has been on Power Tour with us will know that this car has vibrated at speed for the entire time we've had it. From the first trip to about 2 weeks ago, there was nothing that would fix it. I've heard, it's your pinion angel, it's your drive shaft... yadda yadda yadda. Well. Here it is ladies and gentleman. Here is the fix for our trans.

Now before I get into a few pictures I'd like to remind everyone the history of this trans. In 2006 we ordered this trans from Tyler at ATS in Vegas. All he did was order and have it drop shipped from Rockland Standard as it came in their box directly from them. What I ordered was a Fbody t56 with an upgraded Viper mainshaft. Very common thing and I'm sure Rockland was stabbing these things out by the dozens at this time.

Here was my first clue that I didn't even know was a clue. Who puts one of these together and doesn't machine off the output shaft?

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_2445Medium_zpsd3c9ce55.jpg.html)

Now that pic was really for you to just understand what I've got/had.

This last time we took it serious. Let's take this thing apart and really investigate. I checked the 5/6 gear. Nope, tight as all hell. Took off the front plate and got that up in the car. Dead nuts on. .002 TIR.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/04/IMG_6719_zpsxhdea8bz-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_6719_zpsxhdea8bz.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/04/IMG_6718_zpsuylw2e3i-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_6718_zpsuylw2e3i.jpg.html)

So we decide to check all the clearances. 1st thing we noticed was the counter shaft seemed loose. It would audibly clunk back and forth. So it definitely wasn't at the recommended .000 end play. In order to check the extension shaft you need to have the tail housing on. When we went to put that on my buddy noticed that it didn't audibly clank onto the aluminum. He lifts and pushes down. It's up about 1/16". That's weird he says. (I have no idea, I've had it apart but wouldn't know that's not right). So he starts looking at the rear shim pack and finds this.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/04/IMG_6760_zpsnbynx1gs-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_6760_zpsnbynx1gs.jpg.html)

This funnel goes with the shim pack for the extension shaft and controls oil flow back through counter-shaft. Well, it was rotated slightly and that tab was underneath the shim pack. What that did was cause the preload to go from the recommended .002 preload to about .052" of preload. From what we can tell what this did was leave the center bearing basically useless.

Took the car out and ripped it up to well over 100mph. All is good! I do have a slight vibe on decel only above about 80 or so. I don't think this is in the trans though. I need to do some more investigation on that, however, this thing is 100x better than it's ever been!

[PhillipM]

Just a follow up. 200 miles in and trans is still nice and smooth!

[PhillipM]

Well haven't worked on this car in a while, but after last Power Tour I decided I was kind of over how tight my seats are in the hips. These are some old Arizen seats from around 2007 or so. I do like them for the most part and I paid way too much for them, so I'd like to keep them for the time being. After talking with my interior guy and having a real good look at how they are constructed I decided to attempt to widen the bottom by tilting out the lower bolsters. Turned out to be fairly easy actually.

I fist started by disassembling them completely. These seats were built in Taiwan and then upholstered in Main I believe if my memory serves me right.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/IMG_7843_zpschixgaxq-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_7843_zpschixgaxq.jpg.html)

After that I was left with just the lower frame work.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/IMG_7844_zpsebpafo13-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_7844_zpsebpafo13.jpg.html)

Now that I fully understood how it was constructed I decided I would cut the tubes in rear and then in the front I would cut them about 80% through and then just rotate the tubes out to give me more room. I ended up going from 17.5" CtC to 19.5" CtC, so a total gain of 2". Hopefully that's enough.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/IMG_7845_zpslimpdvss-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_7845_zpslimpdvss.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/IMG_7848_zpshpctcebw-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_7848_zpshpctcebw.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/IMG_7849_zpszl0pocxj-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_7849_zpszl0pocxj.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/IMG_7850_zpsiovupt7y-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_7850_zpsiovupt7y.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/IMG_7847_zpsk1wtnr4d-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_7847_zpsk1wtnr4d.jpg.html)

After that I put it all back in the car. Can't even tell really that much has been changed. The fit between the center cushion and the outer bolsters is a little looser, and if I need to I can add about a 3/8" piece of foam here to take up some space.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/IMG_7851_zpseiuscqpb-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_7851_zpseiuscqpb.jpg.html)

[PhillipM]

Here are a couple more photos I found on my phone. These show a little more detail on how I cut the tubes and then tilted out the bolsters.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/IMG_7865_zpsxpyp0hkr-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_7865_zpsxpyp0hkr.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/IMG_7866_zpst5nidbth-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_7866_zpst5nidbth.jpg.html)

I left the fronts connected only slightly to keep them in place. I then added a piece of steel to the gap and welded it up. That took a lot of the guess work out of alignment.

[PhillipM]

Got the car out to enjoy it a little bit. Shot a few photos just at work. First time outside with the quarter panels fixed! Also, the newly widened seats are comfy as hell now!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/11/IMG_796320Large_zpskn23wh2o-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_7963%20Large_zpskn23wh2o.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/11/IMG_796620Large_zpsbfudgflt-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_7966%20Large_zpsbfudgflt.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/11/IMG_795820Large_zpshmewnara-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_7958%20Large_zpshmewnara.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/11/IMG_796020Large_zpsytgw41fk-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_7960%20Large_zpsytgw41fk.jpg.html)

[PhillipM]

Well we've updated the cooling fan and I wanted to share with you what we've done. During HRPT 2016 I spoke with Charlie shortly about the cooing system in the Red Devil. Following up with that I did a little research and found that the fan was out of a Cadillac SRX. So I scrounged Ebay and picked up a blade and motor for $45.00. I'm not saying that our old CCI 17" fan wasn't good but when the temps got around 110* out and you sat in traffic the temps would rise to about 235* and the A/C would start to suffer. So, I'm hoping with double the wattage and a 20% larger blade we can negate those effects! First thing I'll say is this sucker is quiet! I thought it was going to be super loud but it's the exact opposite. We were able to still use the original shroud I built about 6 years ago and just make some updates to it. Here are some pictures..

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/05/IMG_842520Large_zpsvnixg6cn-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_8425%20Large_zpsvnixg6cn.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/05/SRX20Fan20motor202_zpsbyncn8ve-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/SRX%20Fan%20motor%202_zpsbyncn8ve.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/05/SRX20Fan20Motor_zpsc1pu3bgf-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/SRX%20Fan%20Motor_zpsc1pu3bgf.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/05/IMG_9111_zpsj8pdmjqq-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_9111_zpsj8pdmjqq.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/05/IMG_9114_zpsz2nsdqq3-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_9114_zpsz2nsdqq3.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/05/IMG_9112_zpszvhboabc-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_9112_zpszvhboabc.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/05/IMG_9120_zps2xgzpzvi-1.jpg~original (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/pmckee/media/F85/IMG_9120_zps2xgzpzvi.jpg.html)

[Mr Nick]

I did a similar tweak on my Corbeau A4 seats. I had the driver lower seat base apart to replace the worn out side bolster foam, and while in there I put a pry bar between the side bolster tube and main frame, and bent them out about 0.75 each. Much better. For a guy my size (6'5") every bit helps.

This car is wrapped correct, how is it holding up?

[PhillipM]

Wrap is holding up great in my opinion. It does scratch pretty easy so if you open the door up and it hits a table or something it's most likely going to be scratched. But, if it gets too bad I can just rewrap the door or what have you. So far though I've wrapped 2 vehicles and i love it. The only part on both that you can tell is at the front fenders where they roll over into the engine bay at the front of the hood. It's a tight compound corner and it pulls back sometimes. But, with my investment I'm okay with it! Looks killer and going down the road people love the matte finish.

If you want I can post the area I'm talking about, if you're considering doing a wrap..

[PhillipM]

TO EVERYONE THAT MAY READ MY THREADS. AS AN AVID USER OF PHOTOBUCKET.COM FOR OVER 15 YEARS ALL OF MY PICTURES AND HOT LINKS HAVE BEEN NUKED. I DON'T KNOW IF THEY WILL EVER GET BACK AS I'M NOT WILLING TO PAY $400.00 RANSOM TO DO SO.

Thank you for your time.

Frustrated,
Phillip

[Bugzilla]

Phillip - I feel your pain. All my pictures are gone too. $400 is just ridiculous to ask for. $100 a year and I would think about it. $50 a year, no problem. Thanks for screwing everyone over Photobucket.

[PhillipM]

Phillip - I feel your pain. All my pictures are gone too. $400 is just ridiculous to ask for. $100 a year and I would think about it. $50 a year, no problem. Thanks for screwing everyone over Photobucket.

Yup I was thinking the same thing. That'd it'd be like $50 and I would just pony up and pay it to save the aggravation. Whoever is their CFO if a freaking f* tard who has no idea what's going on.

[Bugzilla]

The stupid thing is how they offer the 2 cheaper options yet those options still wont do the 3rd party hosting. I hope this backfires big time on them and they go under.

The good thing is that this forums picture uploader still works. Most of the other forums I am on use the same one. So I will just stick to that until I figure out what to do with all my years worth of non working pictures.

[PhillipM]

The stupid thing is how they offer the 2 cheaper options yet those options still wont do the 3rd party hosting. I hope this backfires big time on them and they go under.

The good thing is that this forums picture uploader still works. Most of the other forums I am on use the same one. So I will just stick to that until I figure out what to do with all my years worth of non working pictures.

Oh yes, they will go under now for sure. So, I just spent the last bit of time downloading photos off my account that I didn't have copies of. They also disabled the download album feature to screw you even more if you just have a free account. But, I've not got all my originals and saved them in two spots just for safe keeping on my local machine.

[beater65]

Man, this really sucks that there are ZERO reference pics in this thread for 10yrs of build almost.

UGH....

[PhillipM]

Man, this really sucks that there are ZERO reference pics in this thread for 10yrs of build almost.

UGH....

Okay, I was able to get the pics working again. Who knows how long it will last but hopefully long enough that Larry can finish the new photo hosting site. -PM

[PhillipM]

Wow, it's been a long time. We had the Cutlass pulled out this week doing some checking and getting ready for the 2021 Goodguys Rocky Mountain Road Tour. Is anyone else on this form going to be in attendance?

191183

[CarlC]

Thanks to you, yes!

[PhillipM]

Speaking of which, I heard there were a few open spots if anyone reading this would like to join us!

[Dc2x4drvr]

Dusty:)