OLDFLM's (Ty) 71 Firebird comes to Fletcher's Customs!! Giving back for my Freedom!!

[fletcherscustoms]

This thread has really taken off and the support and contributions from this community and its vendors, is honestly "unreal". You folks never cease to amaze me. I thought it would be best that I list sponsors up here as they are added. Keep reading through the posts to see all the new news as it happens!

Business Sponsors
-Inland Empire Driveline http://www.iedls.com/
They have offered to donate a complete driveshaft for the Project

-Billet Accessories Direct http://www.billetaccessoriesdirect.com
They have donated a "Smooth" series billet steering wheel

-Modo Innovations http://www.modoinnovations.com/
They have donated a set of there awesome pedal covers

-Hoodpins.net http:// www.hoodpins.net
Awesome set of hood pins

-Autorad Radiators http://www.autoradradiators.com/
Custom Built Aluminum Radiator, and Aluminum core Support

-Ben @ Hermance Design http://www.hermancedesign.com/ for all his hard work he is doing on the design and layout of the car.

-Morris Classic Concepts http://www.morrisclassicconcepts.com/
Front 3 point belts , and rear belts

-Anvil Auto http://www.anvilauto.com/
Carbon Fiber Formula hood, nose, lower valance, rear spoiler, rear bumper, tail panel, dash guage bezel, console pieces

-Marquez Design http://www.marquezdesign.com/
Custom interior door panels, rear pacakge tray, billet striker, billet jamb vents, billet hood adjusters

- AGR Performance http://www.agrperformance.com/ to the build.
Larry with AGR has graciously donated a Billet 12.1 Steering Box and one of there great steering pumps

-Fesler Built http://www.feslerbuilt.com/
Chris has donated a set of his hood hinges and will be doing a ton of new parts for first gen firebirds, with us getting the first sets. Tail lights, front signals, markers, along with a bunch of other goodies he is going to try and replicate, all out of nice shiny Billet!!

-US Collision,
Mario (DOOM) has donated all the paint materials for the car. PPG base, clear and all other needed reducers, etc

-Pro-Touring F-Body http://www.pro-touringf-body.com/index.html
Dave has donated a set of there awesome G-braces for the car

-Phoenix Transmission http://www.phoenixtrans.com/
they have donated the following parts
-special built version of there PT700R4ST 700R4 tranny
-Torque Max 2500 Stall convertor
-Ponitac adaptor plate
-TV cable system
-Dipstick and tube
-Tranny x-member

--Auto Custom Carpet www.accmats.com
they have graciously donated a full custom carpet kit, with one of kind custom embroidered floor mats. Thanks to Julie Tyson for working and helping us out with the project

-Shiftworks http://www.shiftworks.com/
Herb... donated a 4-speed conversion kit to convert the stock slap stick shifter over to a 4-speed auto to work with the 700R4 from Phoenix Transmission Products!

--Hedman Hedders www.hedman.com
They have graciously donated a set of #28150 ceramic coated headers to project CF-71 Freedom Bird!!
Special thanks to Vic Wood for working this and helping us out with the project!

-American Autowire www.americanautowire.com
They have graciously donated a complete “Classic Update” wiring kit to the build!! https://0193647.netsolstores.com/ind...D&ProdID=28047
Special thanks to Donnie Bock for working hard on this for us and helping out with the project!

-Kevin Swaney at TIN INDIAN Performance (TIP) has partnered with Jeff Kauffman at Kauffman Racing Equipment (KRE) to build my 400cid Pontiac engine into a 440cid-stroker! The new engine will feature ALL aftermarket parts with the only original piece being the factory iron block... topped off with KRE heads and TIPs custom engraved billet valve covers!

-Pypes Performance Exhaust-
XVF13s 3" x-pipes and MVR16S 3" RacePro mufflers!!

Personal Folks, who have made donations be it money or parts

-camcojb-Jody
-SPchiv- Full poly bushing kit and stainless bolt kit
-70bird-Mark
-gearheads78-Richard








Moved over from Lateral G, so posts are a couple weeks old!! Know you guys over here know Ty and myself also, so knew you guys would want to see the process


Ty (OLDFLM) contacted me last week about the possibilty of rescueing his car from paint jail. Ty is is a 23 active enlisted member of the Air Force and had the all to famous trapped story. Car was dropped off for a simple scuff and shoot, suppossed to take 3 weeks, and when I picked it up it has been 14 or so with very minimal work done. So I agree to do the car on Ty's budget. Its one of those "pay it forward" things. For 23 years hes been doing things for me, and my fellow americans, so I had to give back in a way.

So fast forward to last Saturday, I make the plans, hit the road and drive up to pick up the car from the local guy who has it. Get there to find the car sitting in the rain, while not usuallt to bad but the guy had already applied some bondo to the quarter seems, and places, there was quite of bit of bare metal on it. So immediatly I see that this is gonna turn into a lot more work, now I got to strip out all the mud he put on the car. Anyways we get it out "paint jail" and bring it back to my place. Where I jump on it, and by midnight Saturday its stripped and ready to start. Few days pass by and I jump back on the car last night. Me, Jerry, and new guy Micheal jump on the car trying to sand off all of "local guys" body work. And low and behold we start to find very old filler and repairs from way back before Ty owned the car. So we ditch the little sanders, for 4.5 angle grinders with 3M pads on it and go to work. 4 hours later and lots work, we got a shop 2" in dust and bare metal on both quarters. Way back when apparently the car got rearend, and the shop who fixed it did some nice work!! You know instead of pulling out the dent in the lower valance lets jut slap in 3" of mud and call it a day. Filler must have been cheap back in the 70's!!! Basically I had no plans of stripping the car to metal, but once I started and didn't find things I liked then I had to. This wasn't included in Ty's budget, but I just can't bring myself to leave crap!! Anyone who wants to help out let me know. Lets give back to our troops!!

Current Plans while at Fletcher's Customs:

Bodywork, bodywork, bodywork, did I say bodywork!! Lots of metal work, I don't liek mud so there's gonna be a lot time spent with a hammer and dolly to get things straight
-Paint a nice Burgundy that pops
-Install Kore brake kit
-Install 18" Rushforth Superspoke wheels and tires
-Install Autometer guages
-fix some other little issues

Few pics from earlier in the year, with the Resto Mod look
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/10/Fall07Pics024-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/10/Fall07Pics027-1.jpg

Right after it got in my shop

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/10/12-2.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/10/21-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/10/31-1.jpg

[fletcherscustoms]

Some pics after last nights sanding thrash!!!

Jerry getting it done!!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2006/10/4-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2006/10/5-2.jpg

Micheal getting in the action
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2006/10/6-1.jpg

By 9PM she looked better
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2006/10/7-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/10/81-1.jpg

[fletcherscustoms]

Little history. Ty is 23 year active Air Force guy, with 4 kids a wife and very tight budget. He contacted me, gave me his situation and his budget. My heart told me "its the least I can do". this guy has helped defend my freedom , I can give back to him and touch his life. His budget is only about 1/4 of what I am doing to the car. I was simply going to rescue the car from the previous paint jail it was in, and do a simple scuff and shoot!! But then I wanted to give back. So its turned into a full on build. Complete strip of car, rust repair, lots metal work, bodywork, paint, strip and paint subframe, refinish underside of car with bedliner, etc, etc. You figure I am already 20 plus hours into the car now @ $50 a hour, I half his budget already! And still got a to buy a ton of materials.

I am doing a lot of stuff he didn't ask for, but its my way of giving back. hoping that he and his family can enjoy the car and maybe he can use it in his daily life to show other active veterans how much we appreciate them.

There are ton of things we need for the car!! I'm not a big high dollar shop!! I am simply a two man operation. No big budgets to throw at this car. So any help I can get on parts, etc is much appreciated and lets us all give back! if there is anything or if you would just simply like to help out please let me or Ty know. Thanks from Fletcher's Customs

[72 GOAT]

What do you need? If We can help I think we all would try to.

[wiedemab]

Very cool! If I live closer, I'd donate some labor, but Indiana would be a far drive!

Keep up the good work. I love those early 70's Birds.

[fletcherscustoms]

Well there things that were found that are needed!!! Then there are for sure tons of dreams Ty has!!

Needed

Full bushing kit for car
tie rods
full bolt kit
rear leaf spring shackles
set of stock or tubular upper control arms
passenger floor pan

Wish list, well thats TY's job not mine

[TonyL]

Sweet! Congrats Ty! That's such a nice thing you guys are doing!
Helping those who help us is what it's all about. Ty's a very cool and deserving guy. I can't wait to see how Pro-touring.com comes through for another worthy cause!

[OLDFLM]

What do you need? If We can help I think we all would try to.

I don’t know whether to be embarrassed or humbled by all the attention this project is getting… but I am truly grateful!

(I thought) The car was a pretty nice “restomod” but I wanted to go the pro-touring route… call it my mid life crisis… but I sold my daily driver Pontiac G6 GT to eliminate the monthly car payment/free up funds and pulled the money for the wheels, brakes and paint out of my Roth IRA. I know, I know… don’t beat me up too bad over it… but that’s the only way I could afford to give the car the facelift I felt it deserved. I’d have probably lost the money by now anyway right! LOL

As Chad described, his part of the project started out as just getting it out of a local 4 month paint jail… a scuff-n-shoot job that was quoted to take only 3 weeks. That was mid-June. Fast forward to the present and I think “good things do come to those who wait” because I’m certain I’ll end up with a MUCH nicer car in every aspect than if it had stayed where it was! I can’t thank Chad and Jerry enough for taking on this project and the deal Fletcher’s Customs is giving me on the car!!! He’s literally doing the entire car for what the local guy originally quoted me for just the scuff-n-shoot! About 1/4th of what he would normally get for the same job! These guys are amazing!!

Even taking Chad’s generous discount into consideration I’m still trying to avoid project creep as I am on a very tight budget. I’m certain that the car has never been taken this far down before since it’s a 71 and I bought it in 1985 and it shows. It seems that nothing on the car has ever been apart and nearly everything needs to be replaced. Chad’s doing a great job of staying focused on what’s really “needed” to do it right this time and not letting me get carried away “dreaming” about what I’d like to do to the car if the budget allowed.

Here’s what we know is “needed” to continue:

- LUGNUTS! LOL I've misplaced the lugs that came from DriverzInc somewhere!

- Master Cylinder... either a 77 Malibu manual MC or the Wilwood deal...

- Body bushings… Chad said the original rubber core support bushings crumbled in their hands when they took them out!

- A-arms… bushings weren’t installed correctly back in 1990 (PST kit) and the A-arms were bent

- Bushing kit… A-arm bushings, sway bar bushings etc.

- Ball Joints and Tie Rod Ends… 18 years old and need replaced.

- Rear spring bushings and shackles… the bushings are the original rubbers and the shackles had to be cut to get them out!

- Bolt/fastener kit… 90 percent of the bolts they touch either break or have to be cut out!


Here’s a laundry list that I had already started before Chad got the car… what I “wanted” to get to give it a deserved facelift:

- New shocks… the KYBs were put on there in 1990 along with the PST rebuild kit… it’s gonna be a driver!

- Gas tank/sending unit… had to buy new fuel and brake lines when they cracked while patching rust in the rear frame rails…

- Morris Concepts 3-point retractable seatbelts… front belts are inop... 3-points provide added safety factor!

- New glass… original side glass is badly scratched… front and rear glass is pitted/scratched… needs replaced

- Vintage Air… it’s gonna get hot down here next summer and I plan to use the car as my sunny day daily driver

- P O N T I A C emblem for trunk filler panel… Formula 400 emblems for the fenders…

- Hedman 28150 headers… freebie Summit 4-tubes are showing their age and one hangs an inch lower than the other

- Trans cooler lines… just prebent replacements needed…nothing fancy

- Overflow jug… junkyard find doesn’t seem like it’ll fit the car when done any longer!

- New Carpet… Original carpet is badly faded and smells like dead mice! LOL

- Dynamat/Hushmat/Second Skin… something to put under the carpet and quiet the interior

- New sill plates… just the $25 repops… no need for expensive NOS stuff here…

- New seats… even though they’re in good shape the stock seats don’t offer much support or bolstering

- Battery tray… the stocker is only about half there! Or we could move it to the trunk?

- Dash pad cap… the stock dash is badly cracked as is common in 2nd Gens…

- Washer bottle, hose, filter… missing in action… the car hasn’t had one since I’ve owned it.

- Interior trim screw kit… would like to replace all those dry wall screws

- Dome lens kit/bulb… again it’s MIA and has never been in the car since I’ve owned it.

- Remote battery kit (trunk mount)

- Bright Driver Headlights

- Upgraded altenator

- Selecta-speed wiper kit

Now, IF I weren’t on a budget and could build my dream: (c:]

- 462 stroker kit for the Poncho 400, KRE 290cfm D-port heads, Hyd Roller cam... OR...

- LS2/3/7… with a Schwartz drive by wire TBI intake and a repop Ram Air air cleaner to work with the hood…
(and Pontiac baby blue valve covers!)

- TKO600 5 speed

- 9" rear or 12 bolt

- Full Tubular Arm package

- Coilovers

- 4 link rear

- Aluminum Radiator

- Upgraded Seats

- 5 point cage

- Power windows, locks and an alarm system

- Killer stereo system

Again, I truly appreciate and am humbled by all the attention this project is getting! (c:]

V/R,

Ty

[BRPMuscleRods]

If you end up making the LS jump let me know and BRP will be happy to set you up with a kit, thanks again for your service. Check out www.Car-Part.com you might be able to snag a good deal on a 6.0L truck motor and make the LS swap without having to break the bank.

[fletcherscustoms]

Wow!! thanks for the generosity!! you guys really are what makes me love this world and most of all this hobby!!

[fletcherscustoms]

Thanks to SPCHIV for coming through with a gracious gift.He donated a full Poly bushing kit and full stainless bolt kit from Year one!!!


Thanks to Syborg tt for his gift of a set of locking brushed hood pins from hoodpins.net

[TonyL]

WOW! Now that's what I'm talking about! Thanks to all those sponsors out there how have something to contribute. It's always cool to show that there is some good left in the world.

This thread will be epic.
/I called it!

[fletcherscustoms]

Probably couldn't have picked a worse time of year!! You know being SEMA is like any day now!! lol

[TonyL]

This thread will be here when they get back! Never underestimate how awesome this community is. We're the best "car club" in the world, as far as I'm concerned.

[cdoggy81]

You picked one of the best looking cars ever to build with. It will be a sweet looking project when done!!!

[steve g]

Good to see another bird getting rebuilt. Mine's a 69 so I don't think any of my extra parts will fit or I would send them your way.

P.S. I'm also a boilermaker.

[TonyL]

Is it still going to look like this when done?
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[OLDFLM]

Is it still going to look like this when done?
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif


Yep! Ben Hermance did that rendering for me months ago... but it looks like it's finally gonna happen now! (c:]

[OLDFLM]

Thanks to SPCHIV for coming through with a gracious gift.He donated a full Poly bushing kit and full stainless bolt kit from Year one!!!


Thanks to Syborg tt for his gift of a set of locking brushed hood pins from hoodpins.net

I can't thank Steve (spchiv) and Marty (Syborg tt) enough for their generousity!!! MUCH appreciated guys!!!!!! :usa:

[OLDFLM]

Little history. Ty is 23 year active Air Force guy, with 4 kids a wife and very tight budget. He contacted me, gave me his situation and his budget. My heart told me "its the least I can do". this guy has helped defend my freedom , I can give back to him and touch his life. His budget is only about 1/4 of what I am doing to the car. I was simply going to rescue the car from the previous paint jail it was in, and do a simple scuff and shoot!! But then I wanted to give back. So its turned into a full on build. Complete strip of car, rust repair, lots metal work, bodywork, paint, strip and paint subframe, refinish underside of car with bedliner, etc, etc. You figure I am already 20 plus hours into the car now @ $50 a hour, I half his budget already! And still got a to buy a ton of materials.

I am doing a lot of stuff he didn't ask for, but its my way of giving back. hoping that he and his family can enjoy the car and maybe he can use it in his daily life to show other active veterans how much we appreciate them.

There are ton of things we need for the car!! I'm not a big high dollar shop!! I am simply a two man operation. No big budgets to throw at this car. So any help I can get on parts, etc is much appreciated and lets us all give back! if there is anything or if you would just simply like to help out please let me or Ty know. Thanks from Fletcher's Customs

I can't tell you how excited I am that Fletcher's Customs is working on the car now!! I'm 41 and have had this car since high school (1985)... it was my first car and carries alot of sentimental value and memories as you can imagine. Somehow traveling around all these 23+ years while on active duty in the Air Force I've managed to keep the car and work on it when time and money allowed. I'm anxious to see the car finally make the jump from restomod to pro-touring!! ... and that sick feeling in my gut is fading knowing that it's in good hands now... Thanks Chad!https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/10/patriot-1.gif

[trapin]

Congrats Ty.

Ty and I have been exchanging e-mails for a few years now. He's definitely one of the good guys and a valued member here at PT.com.

Looking forward to following along with this one.

Subscribed.

[OLDFLM]

If you end up making the LS jump let me know and BRP will be happy to set you up with a kit, thanks again for your service. Check out www.Car-Part.com (http://www.Car-Part.com) you might be able to snag a good deal on a 6.0L truck motor and make the LS swap without having to break the bank.

I'd absolutely LOVE to do the LS jump... the L92 that Andrew B put in is GTO is perfect IMHO! What's not to love about the new LS motors! I'd do mine up with Pontiac baby blue valve covers and a Schwartz fly by wire TBI/intake so that I could use a repop Ram Air air cleaner to work with my Formula hood! That would be sick!! But unless someone donates an LSx it's just not in the budget. Truly appreciate the offer and will take you up on it if/when the time comes! Much appreciated!
V/R,
Ty

[OLDFLM]

Congrats Ty.

Ty and I have been exchanging e-mails for a few years now. He's definitely one of the good guys and a valued member here at PT.com.

Looking forward to following along with this one.

Subscribed.

Thanks Tony! This is kinda your fault in a way ya know... LOL Going all the way back to your "Things I've Learned" project outline of your Infamous Camaro! (c:]

[OLDFLM]

Is it still going to look like this when done?
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

Here's a pic of my Rushforth Superspokes with my son Tyler!

I can't thank Jon and JayR enough for all their help in selecting these wheels!!

I'm simply blown away by the quality of these wheels and their truly personal service!!!

[OLDFLM]

To complement my Rushforth Superspokes I called Tobin Knighton @ KORE3 and ordered up a complete C6 Z51 brake kit for my Firebird. You can't believe the quality and service that Tobin provides! He guided me through every step and offered great advice geared toward my intended driving applications.

My Firebird will have DBA 13.4" & 13" rotors front and rear with KORE3s matching black powdercoated PBR calipers and all the hardware to make the install a breeze for Chad and Jerry. And the best part? He had everything in stock and I had them in just over a week!

Tobin is great to deal with and I highly recommend KORE3 to anyone who wants a great product delivered in record time with great advice and customer service!

Check out KORE3s kits @ www.KORE3.com (http://www.kore3.com/) or call Tobin at 1-800-357-5467

V/R,
Ty

[70bird]

What do you need? If We can help I think we all would try to.
Boilermaker, maybe you could post up a link to a paypal account so us guys without parts to send could help out too. I'm down for 20 bucks.

Ty, thanks for your service!!!

[fletcherscustoms]

Boilermaker, maybe you could post up a link to a paypal account so us guys without parts to send could help out too. I'm down for 20 bucks.

Ty, thanks for your service!!!

Paypal:
[email protected]

Snail Mail:
Chad Fletcher
c/o Fletchers Customs
21971 US highway 319 north
Coolidge, GA 31738

[OLDFLM]

Ben Hermance just updated the rendering with the hoodpins that Marty (Syborg tt) donated!!

Thanks again Marty!! Thanks Ben!!

[TonyL]

LOL! Right on Ben!

Ty, you should be sure and post links to the sites that sponsored you in your sig.That way people will know where to find the cool stuff you have on your car! It's a win-win for them that way. Every post you make is an advertisement for them!

[OLDFLM]

LOL! Right on Ben!

Ty, you should be sure and post links to the sites that sponsored you in your sig.That way people will know where to find the cool stuff you have on your car! It's a win-win for them that way. Every post you make is an advertisement for them!

What a GREAT idea!!!

I might need some help making it look good though! LOL

Chad and I just talked about decals or some way to give sponsors the recognition they deserve... and maybe get Ben to do a final rendering with all their logos on it as well.

[maldo]

nice car love that year

[fletcherscustoms]

Boilermaker, maybe you could post up a link to a paypal account so us guys without parts to send could help out too. I'm down for 20 bucks.

Ty, thanks for your service!!!

Thanks!! Got it this morning!!

you guys are awesome!

[fletcherscustoms]

I am truly honored to be apart of this!! Giving back means so much to me, and it really floors me to see the amount of respect and help folks are wanting to give back also. WE have people donating money and parts and we have some great companies coming along also. Wow what more can I say , you guys are the best!!

We have some great companies that have addresses interest in partial sponsorships and some freebies!!! We are going to need to raise some money for Ty to get some of these parts. I'll have some more info after SEMA, but you vendors and folks are the best!!!

Companies that have expressed interest or given something already:

Hoodpins.net- thanks for the hood pins!!
Speedtech
Marquez Design
Detroit Speed
Prothane

you guys rock!!!

[SPECWARSQUID]

To all those involved, "Good-On-Ya".


And Chad keep the pictures coming.

Shay
____________
Semper Fortis

[fletcherscustoms]

I cleaned out my Pm box, I had email that showed some folks had tried to send me a PM!

I'll get some pictures up today

[fletcherscustoms]

Wow, I am floored by the response this is getting. We have had so many great companies get back with us about helping out on the project. Even with SEMA going on they are still going out of there way to help out. This project gets better and better everyday. Ty's will truly be getting back something he never imagined.

We are gonna have to do some fundraising! There are so many offers for great products at discounted pricing. And some secret things I would like to do for Ty also. If anyone wants to help out let me know, on here or by email.

I'm gonna take $500 of what TY was giving me towards the paint, and turn around and donate into the "Extra fund" for somethings he dreamed about!! So now after my paint and material bill from this week, for the car, and deducting the $500. I am making $324.36. And that doesn't even include labor!!:cheering:

[syborg tt]

Your welcome and I'm glad we could help.


Ben Hermance just updated the rendering with the hoodpins that Marty (Syborg tt) donated!!

Thanks again Marty!! Thanks Ben!!

[OLDFLM]

Wow, I am floored by the response this is getting. We have had so many great companies get back with us about helping out on the project. Even with SEMA going on they are still going out of there way to help out. This project gets better and better everyday. Ty's will truly be getting back something he never imagined.

We are gonna have to do some fundraising! There are so many offers for great products at discounted pricing. And some secret things I would like to do for Ty also. If anyone wants to help out let me know, on here or by email.

I'm gonna take $500 of what TY was giving me towards the paint, and turn around and donate into the "Extra fund" for somethings he dreamed about!! So now after my paint and material bill from this week, for the car, and deducting the $500. I am making $324.36. And that doesn't even include labor!!:cheering:

I'm sitting here, at work, in uniform, choked up and trying not to lose my demeanor... your generosity is amazing!!!
Thanks Chad!!!! You are truly a class act!! And I am a very blessed man!! Humbled and Grateful!
V/R,
Ty

[fletcherscustoms]

Had a few minutes at lunch, so I ran by the shop and grabbed a couple of really crappy pics!! I really need a new camera!!!

nothing major just a couple shots showing it stripped. one day i'll learn how to pull a motor without making a mess!! There must be 40 lbs of kitty litter on the floor. Tonight will be clean up the shop and strip the interior!!!

Subframe!! It will be blasted, primed and painted semi gloss black!! more on that later!!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/10/subframe-1.jpg

Two really crappy pics in the shop!!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/10/stripped1-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/10/stripped2-1.jpg

[TonyL]

Wow! you aren't messing around!

[2ndgenracer]

Hey Ty,

I'm glad to see everyone stepping up to help out with your project. If I come across anything I'll definitely send it your way. I do have the rear shackles off of Splitter let me know the shop address and I'll send them over.

Later,
Brett

[fletcherscustoms]

Hey Ty,

I'm glad to see everyone stepping up to help out with your project. If I come across anything I'll definitely send it your way. I do have the rear shackles off of Splitter let me know the shop address and I'll send them over.

Later,
Brett

thanks, those are something I am having a hard time running down.

Chad Fletcher
C/o Fletcher's Customs
21971 US highway 319 North
Coolidge, GA 31738

[fletcherscustoms]

Wow the outpour of generosity is amazing!! I want to personally thank the following companies for there contributions, and for helping me to make Ty's dream car a reality

-Inland Empire Driveline http://www.iedls.com/
They have offered to donate a complete driveshaft for the Project

-Billet Accessories Direct http://www.billetaccessoriesdirect.com
They have donated a "Smooth" series billet steering wheel

thanks so much to everyone is willing to be apart of this project. Its just one little way we can give back to the men and women who have protected our freedom without asking us for anything

[fletcherscustoms]

Few more pics!

Spent last night cleaning the shop, so not to much to show. But the shop was nasty and needed a good cleaning. Also had a couple of teenagers stop by that have a love for cars, and I try to mentor and teach them all I can. Well I learned last night not to give them a couple cans of spray paint, lol

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/10/stripped4-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/10/stripped5-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/10/stripped6-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/10/IMG_0097-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/10/IMG_0103-1.jpg

[OLDFLM]

Wow the outpour of generosity is amazing!! I want to personally thank the following companies for there contributions, and for helping me to make Ty's dream car a reality

-Inland Empire Driveline http://www.iedls.com/
They have offered to donate a complete driveshaft for the Project

-Billet Accessories Direct http://www.billetaccessoriesdirect.com
They have donated a "Smooth" series billet steering wheel

thanks so much to everyone is willing to be apart of this project. Its just one little way we can give back to the men and women who have protected our freedom without asking us for anything

The generosity of the vendors and the great folks of this community simply blows me away!!! I'm extremely grateful to you all! :usa:

V/R,
Ty

[Tony_SS]

I know it's not much, but I'd like to donate a couple of T-shirts with Ben's rendering on it.

Here's a sample of how they'll look.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/10/40b-1.jpg

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

[fletcherscustoms]

I like t-shrts!!!

[OLDFLM]

Me too! And I love Ben's work!! Thanks a bunch! :cool:

[Tony_SS]

Hey Ty they'll have your 71 Formula Rendering that Ben did on the shirts, not the Camaro.

[OLDFLM]

WOW!!!! A T-shirt with my car on it! How cool is that?!!!!! Thank you Tony!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :usa:

[1offwizard]

I know it's not much, but I'd like to donate a couple of T-shirts with Ben's rendering on it.

Here's a sample of how they'll look.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/10/40b-1.jpg

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

Now THAT is an awesome idea!!! Very cool Tony!

[slck6t9]

Since everyone likes T-shirts, you could make some and sell them here and the proceeds can go to Ty's car. Just a thought. People could then say they help build the car that they are wearing ha-ha.

[Code Red]

this should be a real nice build

[fletcherscustoms]

Since everyone likes T-shirts, you could make some and sell them here and the proceeds can go to Ty's car. Just a thought. People could then say they help build the car that they are wearing ha-ha.

Thats a awesome Idea!!

[fletcherscustoms]

Wow what a awesome weekend, really got a lot of stuff accomplished even though the pics don't show much. Spent Friday evening, Saturday and Sunday doing rust repair!! Woohoo we all know how much fun that can be!! After this weekend we are 42 hours into the car, spent 9.5 hrs yesterday on the tail panel alone!! Car is really in a better place. Cut about 2 sq feet of rusted panels out and replaced with new metal. had some major issues in the tail panel, little small 1/2" area in the rocker and some other pitting issues here and there. I forgot how much fun its is to tack weld for 4 hours!!! lol But everything is good to go now. After we welded everything in and smoothed with grinder. We then covered with a skim coat of Fiberstrand filler. I've shaved hundreds of doors in my life and always had the best results with a nice skim coat of glass reinforced filler down first. Anyways onto the pics!!

Shot showing the skim coat of glass filler put on the shaved markers, quarter seam,etc
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/repair2-1.jpg

Cutting out the rust, this is one of my helpers Micheal, couldn't do it without him
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/repair1-1.jpg

After we got it all cut out, we got two good places for exhaust outlets and a perfect spot for teh trailer hitch to come through:banghead:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/repair3-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/repair4-1.jpg

[fletcherscustoms]

New metal welded in !!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/repair5-1.jpg
Little Grinding
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/repair6-1.jpg

Little Filler
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/repair8-1.jpg

[fletcherscustoms]

And the Support keeps coming!! This place and its vendors never cease to amaze me!!

I'd like to welcome Autorad Radiators http://www.autoradradiators.com/ to the project! They have agreed to donate a custom built Aluminum radiator specifically for this project. thanks for your help!!

[pappy]

I am looking to replace my stock sway bars. I am hesitant to buy Hotchkiss, ADDCo, or Helwig. I don't like the kits because of the drilling. Which is the better to use or are there any other options?

[OLDFLM]

I'd like to welcome Autorad Radiators http://www.autoradradiators.com/ to the project! They have agreed to donate a custom built Aluminum radiator specifically for this project. thanks for your help!!

Thank you Jim and Karen for your generous contribution to the project!!! :patriot:
Look forward to hearing from you when you return from SEMA!

[OLDFLM]

I am looking to replace my stock sway bars. I am hesitant to buy Hotchkiss, ADDCo, or Helwig. I don't like the kits because of the drilling. Which is the better to use or are there any other options?

Pappy,

Your question concerning sway bars immediately made me ask "what is his intended use of the car?" Is it a restomod and you simply want to replace the stock or missing sway bars? Do you want to upgrade the front and rear to WS6 specs or add a rear bar where there wasn't one originally?

What else have you done or are you looking to do with the rest of the suspension if improved performance is the goal?

Suspension answers could range from better shocks and sway bars as you intially asked about, to replacing your frame with a full frame and complete suspension package, brakes and wheel/tire combos depending on your budget.

If you could be a little more specific about the usage the car... will it see track time (autocross, dragstrip,road course, top speed etc) and what kind of street driving (# of passengers, payload,types of roads etc) and a ballpark budget you'll probably get a bunch of very good suggestions from the great folks here!

I'd also recommend you do a search as there is a ton of useful information here! And you could also call many of the various suspension sponsor here on the site to ask for their recommendations.

We'll try to help as much as we can with your questions... just need a little more info to help you get to YOUR intended end result... as your intended use of your car may not be the same as others.

HTH

V/R,
Ty

[ssean92]

Looks Like there were alot of issues on this car, But wow it is coming along well.....Congrats Ty

[fletcherscustoms]

Ok all the rust repair is done and the big dents have been pulled. The bare metal has been killing me, seems like I all I do is remove surface rust that seems to pop up overnight, lol :pat: So last night we put the car in a coat of Epoxy primer. Nothing special just thought I would post a couple pics

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/22-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/32-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/41-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/13-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/51-1.jpg

[OLDFLM]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/woot-1.gif https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2005/04/thumbsup-1.gif https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/dance-1.gif https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/cheering-1.gif

[OLDFLM]

:twothumbs
Looks Like there were alot of issues on this car, But wow it is coming along well.....Congrats Ty

Thanks Sean!! You'll be one of the first to see it when it's done!

[TonyL]

Looking good guys! Keep it up!

[slck6t9]

So are you selling T-shirts to help the cause?

[Tony_SS]

So are you selling T-shirts to help the cause?

I'm working on setting something up for those who want to help the cause and get a shirt in return.

[ssean92]

:twothumbs

Thanks Sean!! You'll be one of the first to see it when it's done!

Can't wait to see it Ty.....:firefire:

[OLDFLM]

I just wanted to take a moment today as I reflect on all the others before me who have fought for our freedoms and for those who have given the ultimate sacrifice for this great country and say thank you to all my fellow veterans and to all who have contributed to this project!! Your patriotism and support of our troops means more than you could ever imagine! https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/10/patriot-1.gif

Very Respectfully,

Ty

[MuscleRodz]

Ok all the rust repair is done and the big dents have been pulled. The bare metal has been killing me, seems like I all I do is remove surface rust that seems to pop up overnight, lol :pat: So last night we put the car in a coat of Epoxy primer. Nothing special just thought I would post a couple pics

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/22-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/32-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/41-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/13-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/51-1.jpgIf they are spraying epoxy, get these kids some masks so they may live to see 30. I have been guilty of the same shooting small parts, but no excuse either.

[curly]

Also had a couple of teenagers stop by that have a love for cars, and I try to mentor and teach them all I can.

They are some lucky guys... wish I had someone that would teach me a few 'tricks of the trade' since I think the ability to do body work would be fun (especially if I ever get a chence to build myself a car)! Great project! I'll be watching this one.

[BMF Machine]

Even the young one looks stoked! Congrats on the headway Ty! Happy Veterans Day!:cool:

[OLDFLM]

The outpouring of support and the generosity of the vendors just continues to blow me away!!!

I'd like to personally thank Robin and her family at Morris Classic Concepts for their generous donation of front 3-point and matching rear seat belts!!! https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/10/patriot-1.gif

V/R,
Ty

http://www.morrisclassicconcepts.com/ (http://www.morrisclassicconcepts.com/)

[Tony_SS]

In honor of Ty Ingle's service we are offering T-Shirts featuring Ben Hermance's rendering of 'Old Flame'. All profits will be donated to Chad (boilermaker) of Fletcher's to help fund and complete the build of Ty's 71 Formula.

Shirts can be ordered here:
http://mac-ink.com/shirts/OldFlame

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

Thanks Ty!
:usa:

[Mr.VENGEANCE]

someone was wildin with a spray can in your shop.. hahaha

[TonyL]

You should show em how it's done man. You're stuff is brilliant.

[OLDFLM]

Just checked out Mr Vengeance's site! Pretty cool stuff!!

[OLDFLM]

Vengeance,

You ARE close enough that you could come down to WR and we could take a road trip to Fletcher's Customs! :drive:

V/R,
Ty

[BMF Machine]

Go down there Captain Vengeance! I bet they would let ya tag the hell out of it!:geek:

[fletcherscustoms]

yeah it was a very rookie try at tagging! But oh well!! They had fun and it was fun to see them enjoying it!

I've talk with Vengeance back in the day about coming down and tagging the shop exterior walls. But boy he's expensive, but damn his work is awesome!!!


And as far as Tony @ mac ink the shirts rock!! I got mine in this week and pimped it to the office on Friday and everybody loved it. Great quality and a great cause. Thanks Tony!!!

[Mr.VENGEANCE]

aahhaha

expensive yes.. but would you regret it.. no.. i guarantee it.
and boy are you far!.. if you even change your mind i have a 69 gto
that could use the touch.. ahaha!

and yea Ty ill roll down there with ya.. id like to see that hot mess in person.

[OLDFLM]

and yea Ty ill roll down there with ya.. id like to see that hot mess in person.

Sounds good! Just give me a shout when you get back!

[fletcherscustoms]

This is one person that have forgot to thank!! And Ben I do apologize.

I need to thank Ben @ Hermance Design http://www.hermancedesign.com/ for all his hard work he is doing on the design and layout of the car. He is doing this out of the goodness of his heart, and I want to publicly thank him for all he is doing. he has been doing countless color combinations, and changes for Ty and I to look over, and I can't thank him enough for all he has done!!Ben thanks again!!

[fletcherscustoms]

Its my pleasure and honor to welcome -Anvil Auto http://www.anvilauto.com/

Matt has been gracious enough to donate a ton of Carbon Fiber goodies to us, for the car and then in turn have the molds to be able to offer his great products for Second Gen Bird owners.

Here is some of the goodies he has coming!!
Carbon Fiber Formula hood, full front nose, lower valance, rear 3 piece spoiler, rear bumper(that'll be tucked and smoothed), tail panel, dash guage bezel, console pieces

now all I got to do is get everything refitted, blocked and sent out his way!

I would personally like to thank you for your support!! thanks from Fletcher's Customs

[fletcherscustoms]

Ok I guess a process update would be good to!! unfortunatly no new pics right now. The last week was a blur, I spent the weekend of the 8th-9th in Atlanta painting a high dollar one of a kind import show car, thats had more covers by itself than most shops get total. And needless to say while there I came down with something called the Roto-Virus. Last week was by far the worst week of my life!! Me and the porcelain became great friends, as well as the trash can two. I lost 13 pounds in 3 days!!! So work on Ty's car last week was at a stand still. this weekend I mustered up a little energy to do some sanding but not to much. I'll have some pics later this week of the body work progress as well and the refit of the sheetmetal before a ton of the parts go out to Anvil Auto for custom Carbon Fiber pieces to be made from them. Stay tuned!!

And once again thanks to everyone who is helping to make Ty's dream a reality!!

[syborg tt]

And needless to say while there I came down with something called the Roto-Virus. Last week was by far the worst week of my life!! Me and the porcelain became great friends, as well as the trash can two. I lost 13 pounds in 3 days!!!

Been there done that - just make sure you take an extra week off because it comes right back if you push to hard. Trust me I know first hand.

[fletcherscustoms]

Its my pleasure to welcome -Marquez Design http://www.marquezdesign.com/ to the build. Pascual has benn genourous enought to donate his Custom interior door panels, rear package tray, billet strikers, billet jamb vents, billet hood adjusters. I want to personally thank Marquez Design for there involvement and there support!!

[Tony_SS]

Been there done that - just make sure you take an extra week off because it comes right back if you push to hard. Trust me I know first hand.

Its real contagious too... my son had it, next thing we knew everyone that was within 2 feet of him got it..

[fletcherscustoms]

And the outpour of support continues!

Its my pleasure to welcome AGR Performance http://www.agrperformance.com/ to the build. Larry with AGR has graciously donated a Billet 12.1 Steering Box and one of there great steering pumps. Thanks so much!!

[fletcherscustoms]

Its my honor and pleasure to extend my thanks to Fesler Built http://www.feslerbuilt.com/. Chris has donated a set of his hood hinges and will be doing a ton of new parts for first gen firebirds, with us getting the first sets. Tail lights, front signals, markers, along with a bunch of other goodies he is going to try and replicate, all out of nice shiny Billet!!
thanks for your support Chris!!

[fletcherscustoms]

And the night gets better and better!!

It my pleasure and honor to add US Collision to the sponsors list , DOOM (Mario) from the boards, who owns the shop contacted me and has offered to send all the paint materials for car!! PPG base, clear, reducers, etc!! Mario I personally thank you for you support and your contribution!! thanks again from Fletcher's Customs

[fletcherscustoms]

one of the best moments of my entire life just happened. I have been trying to get in touch with Ty all morning. And he has been teaching a class so no email or phone all morning. I've left him constant messages, etc. He calls me about 5 minutes ago. Where I proceed to tell him the bad and the good news. You can here him sigh ans then ask for the bad, to which I respond "this time next year you'll be a little broker, than now" and he says" why". To which I respond we're taking the car to SEMA 2009!" Nothing, nothing at all , no reply at all. complete silence for what seems like a eternity, which is then overcome by the sounds of a grown man weeping in pure happiness!! He just didn't have the words to speak. But for one of the first time in my life, I felt his happiness. I felt his joy!! There is not a better person that I know of that deserves this car!! Casue through all of this he still gives it all to GOd, and continually thanks him for what he is doing to bring us all together!! Look for him to be on here soon, when he gets a break from class!!

[OLDFLM]

I can't say thank you enough!!!!!!!!!!!! I don't know how else to say it!

A spot at SEMA 09 for my car!!! Are you kidding me??? https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2006/05/wow-1.gif UNBELIEVABLE!!!!!!

I thought Chad was yanking my chain when he told me! (c:]

And when the reality of it all hit me... it hit HARD! I was truly blown away!!

I'll admit it took me a while to regain my composure (in uniform) to say anything at all...

Words simply can't express my gratitude!! https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/03/bow-1.gif

You have no idea how grateful I am or how indebted I feel...

The generosity of everyone involved is AMAZING!!!!!!!

I am truly humbled and I'm a very blessed man!!!

I'm proud to be a member of this great community!! :grouphug:

I THANK YOU ALL!!!!!!!!!!!! https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/10/patriot-1.gif

V/R,
Ty

[TonyL]

Very cool Ty. Start a poll over here about that color choice (I still say blue!)

[OLDFLM]

Very cool Ty. Start a poll over here about that color choice (I still say blue!)

Done! You can vote over in the Paint & Body Section... :1st:

[BMF Machine]

Man that is exciting NEWS! I remember my first time at SEMA, my only time? Still the buzz at SEMA is out of this world! Congradulation guys!

[OLDFLM]

Thanks Kevin! I'm still in shock... and awe of this whole deal!

My car at SEMA 09! With all the exotic and top of the line products that have been donated by some the premier folks in the industry!

UNBELIEVABLE!!! :cool::usa:

[OLDFLM]

Our Air Force transport aircraft are designated with a C-prefix and carry cargo and/or passengers... C-5, C-130, C-17 etc.

Air Force fighter aircraft are designated with an F-prefix... F-4, F-15, F-16 etc.

So we have C & F... and with all the carbon fiber pieces that'll be on my 71 Firebird I was thinking CF-71?

Add to that designation, flights returning from an overseas area are often referred to as the "Freedom Bird", since they usually carry military members who are returning to the United States after what is commonly a one to three-year tour of duty.

So, what about:

OLDFLM's "CF-71 Freedom Bird" for a project name?

V/R,
Ty

[BMF Machine]

Nice RinG to it!:lurk:

[Fesler built]

I like it as well fits you and the car perfect

[NOT A TA]

It's kinda close to a 71 Camaro that got a lot of coverage years back named F-71 Hotchkis built the car while developing the second gen packages that later became known as the TVS. http://www.hotchkis.net/p-16-f71-chevy-camaro.aspx

[OLDFLM]

It's kinda close to a 71 Camaro that got a lot of coverage years back named F-71 Hotchkis built the car while developing the second gen packages that later became known as the TVS. http://www.hotchkis.net/p-16-f71-chevy-camaro.aspx


I know and I thought of it... that and SR-71 was already taken also! LOL Not trying to copy anyone else... just tried to come up with something that tied into my military service/patriotism and the direction the car has taken on with all the generous donations and contributions from everyone...

This thing has really taken on a life of it's own and was deserving of a new project name imho. Thanks again to everyone who's had a part in taking this project to the next level... it has become more than I ever dreamed it could be.

V/R,
Ty

[80superbu]

Hey Ty,
Looks to be a really cool build they have going for ya. Can't wait for the finished pics. Just finishing up my 20 in the Air Force as a weather forecaster. I retire next week.
There is a better chance of me buying my parts form the contributing vendors, providing they sell 67 Chevelle stuff :-)

Congrats again

[OLDFLM]

Congratulations on your retirement Bryan!!!!!!!

I'm not ready to cross that bridge yet but I know that day isn't too far away as I can't stay in forever! LOL

Many of the vendors offer military discounts... just call them and tell them what you need and they'll take care of you!

God's speed and best wishes to you and yours as you close this chapter in your life's journey!

Your fellow Wingman,
Ty :usa:

[WS6]

I say just make it Freedom Bird nothing else. You can put CF-71 somewhere else on the car maybe. Cf-71 Freedom Bird sounds good but is too long. No one will call it buy its full name anyway. they'll either say Freedom Bird or CF-71. Just my opinion though. It's your car and it'll be a great no matter what it's called. I doubt I'll name mine just because I am no good at names

[fletcherscustoms]

yeah I know I'm slacking on pics!!!

I've had to pay some bills so been working on another car for the last two weeks off and on. Why we have been blocking and getting all the pieces ready to go out to Anvil to repop on Carbon. I'll have some pics up this week showing the almost complete bodywork on the shell and the other stuff we've done!! We've been plugging away at it, just not really anything huge to show right now.

[fletcherscustoms]

Guys look for lots of big news about some new sponsors in the next few days!! PHR coverage is now a for sure a go!! With some nice web exclusive stuff on the build up along with a follow up when completed for print!!

As far as big news, just a couple of words "big Pontiac HP"!!!

[BMF Machine]

Sweet, it will end up with one of those alum. motors like in Empty Nest? Please say yes! That thing was WickeD BaD! I am so glad this project is getting out of hand, Ty seams very deserving; Too say the least!

[OLDFLM]

Sweet, it will end up with one of those alum. motors like in Empty Nest? Please say yes! That thing was WickeD BaD! I am so glad this project is getting out of hand, Ty seams very deserving; Too say the least!

There's some stuff in the works but nothing in concrete yet... we'll keep you all posted once we know exactly what it's gonna be! :ssst:

[fletcherscustoms]

Its my pleasure to welcome another great company to the project.

Pro-Touring F-Body http://www.pro-touringf-body.com/index.html
Dave has donated a set of there awesome G-braces for the car

Thanks so much

[OLDFLM]

Its my pleasure to welcome another great company to the project.

Pro-Touring F-Body http://www.pro-touringf-body.com/index.html
Dave has donated a set of there awesome G-braces for the car

Thanks so much


I can't thank Dave at Pro-touring F-body enough for his generous donation to this project!

His G-braces will not only improve the suspension by virtually eliminating flexing of the subframe but they'll also add a street fighter edge to the car!!

Thanks again Dave!!!!! :usa:

http://www.pro-touringf-body.com/chassis_components.html

V/R,
Ty

[2ndgenracer]

Hey Ty,

Congrats on SEMA!

Brett

[OLDFLM]

Hey Ty,

Congrats on SEMA!

Brett

Thanks Brett! This whole deal just blows me away! :woot:

I never once imagined the car would ever get built to this level and never dreamed it could or would ever go to SEMA!! :cool:

I'm very blessed and thankful to all involved and supporting the build! :usa:

V/R,
Ty

[fletcherscustoms]

Its my pleasure and honor to welcome another great company to Project "CF-71 Freedom Bird". The amount of support continues and these great companies are going way beyond any of our expectations!!

Welcome Phoenix Transmission http://www.phoenixtrans.com/

They have donated the following parts
-special built version of there PT700R4ST 700R4 tranny
-Torque Max 2500 Stall convertor
-Ponitac adaptor plate
-TV cable system
-Dipstick and tube
-Tranny x-member

thanks again to all the vendors and people that are helping to make Ty's dream come true!!

Chad
Fletcher's Customs and Speed

[TonyL]

wow! this has gotten so much bigger than I ever thought it would. Congrats man.


Now hows about some photos of this stuff showing up at the shop??? :P

[OLDFLM]

wow! this has gotten so much bigger than I ever thought it would. Congrats man.


Now hows about some photos of this stuff showing up at the shop??? :P


Thanks Tony!! I know! Me too!!! :seizure:

I just can't thank the vendors and all envolved enough!!!!!! This thing is going to be amazing when finished! :cool:

Pictures... well, we could ask Chad's 4-year old about those... seems she accidently threw the camera and Chad can't get the photos he was planning on posting off the camera... but a new camera is on the way as are photo updates! :kewlpics:

[jy211]

great news, but still no picture update!!!

[maldo]

yes please picture updates would love to see the progress

[OLDFLM]

Its my pleasure and honor to welcome another great company to Project "CF-71 Freedom Bird". The amount of support continues and these great companies are going way beyond any of our expectations!!

Welcome Phoenix Transmission http://www.phoenixtrans.com/

They have donated the following parts
-special built version of there PT700R4ST 700R4 tranny
-Torque Max 2500 Stall convertor
-Ponitac adaptor plate
-TV cable system
-Dipstick and tube
-Tranny x-member

thanks again to all the vendors and people that are helping to make Ty's dream come true!!

Chad
Fletcher's Customs and Speed


Wow!!! What can I say... Greg Ducato and Phoenix Transmission Products simply just blew me away today with their incredibly generous offer!!!! :worship:

A 700R4 transmission, torque converter, adapter plate, TV cable system, dipstick and tube and crossmember!

The transmission will be a special version of their PT700R4ST to handle the extra power and torque of the "new Pontiac powered combo" :ssst:, and the converter will be their Torque-Max 2500 stall model.

We'll be Pro-Touring for sure now with this new 4-speed automatic overdrive transmission!

Talk about a Merry Christmas!!! Thanks again Greg!!!

[ssean92]

Any idea on when it might be close to finished? projected date? Or is the SEMA a idea of when.

[OLDFLM]

Any idea on when it might be close to finished? projected date? Or is the SEMA a idea of when.

We're shooting for early spring... depending on timing during assembly.

[jeffandre]

Ty,
Great progress, car will be awesome! You deserve it, so keep showing us pics of progress.

Regarding our wheel/tire discussion offline, if you want the big tires, maximize your wheel size, especially the back for now, because once it's painted you will not be too eager to tub.

You can work the front later, but try to find a used 19x9/10/11 for trial fitment. Vette's are good sources, should be able to get one for less than $150. This will allow you to figure out what you need to do to make a 19x11 fit and look good. You could probably fit 19x12's if you were stubborn enough, I got 19x11's on the front of my 71 Camaro, and the tire edge is 1.25" in from the fender edge. Your Bird has a curved fender flare, might make it easier to let the tire go out that extra inch that I cannot have without raising my car too high...

If you go with what fits now, you will still be very happy. Talk to you soon,

[icebird84]

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


I am doing a lot of stuff he didn't ask for, but its my way of giving back. hoping that he and his family can enjoy the car and maybe he can use it in his daily life to show other active veterans how much we appreciate them.

There are ton of things we need for the car!! I'm not a big high dollar shop!! I am simply a two man operation. No big budgets to throw at this car. So any help I can get on parts, etc is much appreciated and lets us all give back! if there is anything or if you would just simply like to help out please let me or Ty know. Thanks from Fletcher's Customs

It is nice to no that people can get this kind help with out being used as entertainment or with out somebody worthing letters to a excellent men like Chip Foose tel him about person how gives and gives and takes nothing in return, this truly Excellent project to fowlo and help if you can.

and to all that help bravo https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[icebird84]

any update

[TonyL]

last i heard chad was finishing up the front end so's it could be sent off to Anvil for new parts to be made off of it. (how cool is that?) It's moving along.

*any* photos would be good though! Inquiring minds wanna peek!

[1offwizard]

Ty, heres a sneak peek at the steering wheel.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/01/Superspokesteeringwheel012-1.jpg

[icebird84]

nice

[fletcherscustoms]

Sorry guys I'm slacking on the pics!!! WE are working our buts off on the parts for Anvil!! I want them to be absolutly perfect, and I'm sure so does Matt!! lol

I'll have some pics up this week, I promise. I'm just running ragged. Never been so busy in the shop in my life!! Three projects going on, and three people working at night only is getting to be fun!!

[BMF Machine]

GodS SpeeD BrO! We can wait; as long as it's not too damn long?lolol

Steering WheeL is SicK! KilleR work WizzarD DudE!

[OLDFLM]

Jason, that thing looks AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:jawdrop:

[1971CHEVELLE]

Ty, heres a sneak peek at the steering wheel.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/01/Superspokesteeringwheel012-1.jpg
Wow.....steering wheel looks nice:)

[hotwheels]

Sorry guys I'm slacking on the pics!!! WE are working our buts off on the parts for Anvil!! I want them to be absolutly perfect, and I'm sure so does Matt!! lol

I'll have some pics up this week, I promise. I'm just running ragged. Never been so busy in the shop in my life!! Three projects going on, and three people working at night only is getting to be fun!!

I'm in no hurry. Would rather get the parts right than quick. Keep up the great work!

[icebird84]

I'm in no hurry. Would rather get the parts right than quick. Keep up the great work!

indeed Matt same here

[OLDFLM]

Just a quick update to show everyone this cool little detail that we're able to incoorporate into the car with the help of Julie Tyson at ACC Auto Custom Carpets, Inc. Thanks Julie!!! https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2005/04/thumbsup-1.gif

ACC will be hooking us up with carpet, floor mats and a trunk mat for the car. The carpet will be very plush and will add a bit of luxury to the interior.

Attached is a picture of the custom Firebird emblem they're doing for the floormats! Julie had the guys do a test of the emblem on a sample of the carpet with a never before done custom colored thread in the center of the "flaming chicken"! How cool is that!

Any guesses on what color we've decided to go with on the car? :hmm:

[icebird84]

Any guesses on what color we've decided to go with on the car? :hmm:

the best one
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/blue4-1.jpg

[a73formula]

that is sick

[OLDFLM]

Just a quick update on the status of the build... there's going to be a bunch happening in the next few months!

The goal is to have the car in paint next month and completed in late May... just in time for summer shows!
A lot of that is going to be dependent on how quickly we get all the parts of course... There's a lot of moving pieces to this build as I'm sure you can appreciate!

All the body panels that will be molded and made in carbon fiber are all pretty much finished and just have to be crated and shipped to Matt @ Anvil Auto early next week! The core support and radiator will also be shipping
to Jim at AutoRad!

So just 3 more months to see the car completed! Wahoo!! I can't tell you how excited I am to see this dream become reality!!! (c:]

The sad news is that the Year One Experience has been cancelled in Atlanta mid-May... we were planning on "unveiling" the car there... so we're seeking another large east coast venue to do so.

Cool Stuff: Working out the details to upgrade the current 390hp/400cid Poncho engine to 500+hp/500+ftlbs and finalizing the components for the suspension with the vendor... all while still trying very hard to remain budget minded!

I just can't thank all the vendors/sponsors and this community of great folks often enough!!!! :usa:

It's going to be an exciting year, summer and SEMA!!! (c:]

V/R,
Ty

[OLDFLM]

Firming up the details on the suspension... any guesses? :secret:

[jy211]

any other pictures?????????

[OLDFLM]

Okay... Here's another pic... :ssst:

[jy211]

damn that's pretty

[OLDFLM]

... "pretty" dang cool! :twothumbs

[Takid455]

I like the WATTs link idea, but that design seems rather excessive. Where does the torque arm mount to? cross member? I can't see, but did you at least incorporate some driveshaft loops in there. Not that it happens often, but changing the gear fluid will become more complicated than it needs to be. I would like to see more pictures of the setup.

Even through my drivetrain and suspension are done on my 78 T/A, the coil over conversions for the rear suspension that have been arriving as of late look very appealing. I hope the CF pieces turn out noce, as I would definately get soem for my car. Did you do inner wheel wells?

[Neighbors]

I -really- like the torque-arm/Watts linkage rear! -Very- nice parts and work! Ought to handle like a dream!

Chris

[OLDFLM]

It's a BMR rear torque arm suspension!!! https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2005/04/thumbsup-1.gif It'll be the first car with their new rear torque arm suspension for 2nd Gen F-bodies! The suspension kit includes the torque arm, Watts link, coilover conversion kit, coilover shocks, driveshaft loop, and transmission crossmember all wrapped up into one sexy BOLT-ON package!! https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2006/05/unibrow-1.gif

I'm so excited about this suspension!!! https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/woot-1.gif Special thanks to Allan Miller at BMR for jumping through hoops to make this possible! No promises on delivery dates but production versions of the 2nd Gen system should be available early this summer!

Contact BMR if you're interested: www.BMRfabrication.com (http://www.bmrfabrication.com/) 813.986.9302


V/R,
Ty

[fletcherscustoms]

We would like to publicly thank and welcome

Auto Custom Carpet www.accmats.com
they have graciously donated a full custom carpet kit, with one of kind custom embroidered floor mats. Thanks to Julie Tyson for working and helping us out with the project

[TonyL]

Sweet! an actual project update image!! W000T!

LoL. Just kidding! Looks great!

[OLDFLM]

Just for you Tony! LOL :lol:

[OLDFLM]

We would like to publicly thank and welcome

Auto Custom Carpet www.accmats.com (http://www.accmats.com)
they have graciously donated a full custom carpet kit, with one of kind custom embroidered floor mats. Thanks to Julie Tyson for working and helping us out with the project

I just can't thank Julie @ Auto Custom Carpets enough!! https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/03/bow-1.gif

She went WAY above and beyond and got her guys to custom embroider the center of the Firebird emblem with a custom colored thread to match the color Chad will be painting the car!! Talk about incredible service!!!!! https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/10/patriot-1.gif

ACC is donating a full (modern/plush/luxury) carpet kit, those incredible custom floormats, a sound deadener kit and a trunk mat to the project!!!

V/R,
Ty

[syborg tt]

looks really good

[TonyL]

That does look really nice.

[OLDFLM]

BMR Torque Arm Conversion Kit

If you are looking for a rear suspension for your Camaro/Firebird that has superior handling, greater adjustability, and lower installation costs than most aftermarket rear suspensions, you should consider a Torque Arm Conversion Kit from BMR Fabrication.

This kit comes complete with a transmission crossmember, adjustable torque arm, Watts Link, double adjustable coilover shocks, shock upper crossmember, lower control arms, and all necessary hardware. This all adds up to a state-of-the-art rear suspension with performance benefits that make the archaic leaf springs obsolete. The long length of the BMR torque arm puts the instant center in the ideal location for a handling application and the Watts Link eliminates side-to-side movement of the rear axle housing and tires. The torque arm front mount uses a delrin-bushed, telescoping slider that allows the torque arm to slide forward and back without binding while also allowing full unrestricted axle articulation. Additionally, the torque arm is equipped for pinion angle adjustability. Watts Links provide the most ideal rear axle housing location, keeping the rear axle centered within the body even if the suspension is fully extended or compressed.

The BMR Watts Link has 5 different vertical mounting locations, so it can be adjusted for all ride heights and roll centers. The coilover shocks are double adjustable, so the compression and rebound can be adjusted independently on each side. This truly bolt-in kit can be installed without any fabrication or welding, so the installation costs are much lower compared to other aftermarket rear suspension kits. All parts within the kit come powdercoated in either red or black hammertone.

For complete product details, contact BMR Fabrication, Inc., 12581 N. US Highway 301, Thonotosassa, FL 33592, www.bmrfabrication.com (http://www.bmrfabrication.com), (813) 986-9302.

[OLDFLM]

Now this is one BAD steering wheel!!! Special thanks to Jason Hancock at Billet Accessories Direct (BAD) for creating this one off work of art for the car! Notice how the steering wheel complements my Rushforth Superspoke wheels! (c:]

Billet Accessories Direct manufacturers wheels, steering wheels, custom accessories and emblems, custom trophies, and custom one offs like this and more!

For complete product details, contact Billet Accessories Direct, 6533 E. Independance, Tulsa, Oklahoma 74115, http://www.billetaccessoriesdirect.com (http://www.billetaccessoriesdirect.com/), 918.836.6030.

[BMF Machine]

ThaT rear end is a StuNNa! SicK steering wheel as well! KudoS!

[fletcherscustoms]

Its a honor to welcome another great company to the team


Shiftworks http://www.shiftworks.com/
Herb... donated a 4-speed conversion kit to convert the stock slap stick shifter over to a 4-speed auto to work with the 700R4 from Phoenix Transmission Products!

[fletcherscustoms]

Sorry we've been slacking on updates everyone... time to bring this thread up to date!

We would like to publicly thank and welcome another great company to the team!

Hedman Hedders www.hedman.com (http://www.hedman.com/)


They have graciously donated a set of #28150 ceramic coated headers to project CF-71 Freedom Bird!!

Special thanks to Vic Wood for working this and helping us out with the project!

[OLDFLM]

THE ORIGINAL COATED HEDDER...
IS STILL THE BEST COATED HEDDER.

Hedman's Standard-duty, HTC Coated Hedders are manufactured using 18 gauge, mandrel bent primary tubes (some models built using thicker 16 or 14 gauge tubing), and 1/4 flanges (some models use 3/8" flanges).

Hedman Hedders is the innovator of many technologies used in today's exhaust market. Protective coatings is one of these technologies. Hedman Hedders introduced coated hedders to the world in the 1980's. Originally utilized exclusively in the aerospace industry, this ceramic-metallic coating protects your new hedders against heat up to 1400ºF, and resists corrosion caused by environmental factors, such as rain, road salts and oxidation.

The insulating properties of our finish keeps exhaust gas heat in the tubes, which speeds up gas flow and protects underhood components from excessive heat. This finish will not crack, peel or "Blue" like chrome, or less expensive coatings. Hedman's HTC coating is backed by a five year factory warranty.

These Hedmans are designed to fit the applications listed, and come packaged with the required gaskets, bolts, nuts, connectors and emissions components (where applicable).

Some hedder applications may require the use of special engine mounts, mini-starters, etc. Additionally, some stock or aftermarket components may interfere with the proper installation of these hedders on your vehicle. To ensure that you are choosing the best hedder model for your specific situation.

[fletcherscustoms]

Please welcome to the build team!

www.americanautowire.com (http://www.americanautowire.com/)


They have graciously donated a complete “Classic Update” wiring kit to the build!! https://0193647.netsolstores.com/ind...D&ProdID=28047 (https://0193647.netsolstores.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=28047)


Special thanks to Donnie Bock for working hard on this for us and helping out with the project!

[fletcherscustoms]

Lots of stuff is going on right now. I have had to take on a couple of other quick projects to pay the bills around the shop. With Ty's car the budget is gone and not making me any money. So I have to do something to keep the man off my back and the lights on!! LOL :squint:

The good news is the parts are off to Matt at Anvil Auto so the carbon fiber parts will be coming soon! We are 100% back on the car as of today!! We have been piddling with it while taking care of some other projects to fund the shop for the next three months while we work on a car with "no budget" for us!! lol Look for updates this week as we start prepping the underside of the car and doing some rust repair and stiffening to the body and frame rails. https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/09/cheers-1.gif https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/woot-1.gif

[syborg tt]

I posted this over on lat-g

Okay I have a stange idea.

If you have a paypal account I would be willing to donate a few dollars to the build up of this car to help you guy's pay your bills.

Since you are truely doing this for free.

Even if everyone give a couple bucks here or there I am sure it will help you out. I am in for the first $50.00

ps he does have a paypal account and it is:

Paypal : [email protected]

So if you can donate a few bucks I think it would be greatly appreciated.

[fletcherscustoms]

Thanks Marty!!! I'm not trying to make money at all, but its kind of hard not to pay my guys!!

WE took this car on with Ty's original $2500 budget, most of which I have donated back to the actual parts fund. I was forced to spend a lot of time lately on a couple of other projects, but it was needed so I can guarantee my guys payroll for the next three months.:grouphug:

I'll never ask anyone for anything else. The support you guys have given is awesome! God will pay me back in another way, I'm confident in that. We'll still have to raise money in a couple of months to get us to SEMA!!!

Also some breaking news about SEMA coming shortly!! I'll let out a little secret, big company, main building, main aisle, right next to GM!! Feature car for their booth!!! :secret:

[OLDFLM]

Kevin Swaney at TIN INDIAN Performance (http://www.tinindianperformance.com/) (TIP) has partnered with Jeff Kauffman at Kauffman Racing Equipment (http://www.krepower.com/) (KRE) to build my 400cid Pontiac engine into a 440cid-stroker! The new engine will feature ALL aftermarket parts with the only original piece being the factory iron block... topped off with KRE heads and TIPs custom engraved billet valve covers!

Together, TIP and KRE have built some of the highest horsepower street friendly KRE D port combo's out there! From 475 HP to 680 HP and everything in between. When building a killer Pontiac pump gas street engine, they feel that the combination of parts tends to be even more critical. The parts need to match and compliment each other in order to optimize performance. When building a Pontiac engine, the selection of cylinder heads, camshaft, and intake are critical to building the right combination and making maximum power from off idle to redline.

We’re shooting for roughly 500hp on pump gas with KREs 74cc 325cnc Aluminum D-ports and a TIP custom ground Comp solid roller cam!

These heads come as cast with a 65cc chamber, with 74cc and 85cc CNC'd chambers available. They will bolt to ALL traditional Pontiac blocks and do not require you to run any off-set lifters or rocker shaft systems.

Stay tuned as TIN INDIAN Performance & KRE build, break in and dyno tune to get the most out of this 440cid Pontiac!


Kevin Swaney
Tin Indian Peformance
www.tinindianperformance.com (http://www.tinindianperformance.com/)
330-699-1358

Jeff Kauffman
Kauffman Racing Equipment
www.krepower.com (http://www.krepower.com/)
740-599-5000

[OLDFLM]

AND I want to give a BIG shout out and THANK YOU to Chris at Pypes Performance Exhaust (http://www.pypesexhaust.com/)!! https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2005/04/thumbsup-1.gif

I already had their 2.5" mandrel bent x-pipe header back system on the car with their 2.5" RacePro mufflers... http://www.pypesexhaust.com/gallery119.html

But when Chris heard about the power level of the new TIN INDIAN Performance/KRE 440ci-combo he offered up one of their XVF13s 3" x-pipes (http://www.pypesexhaust.com/xpipes.html) and MVR16S 3" RacePro mufflers (http://www.pypesexhaust.com/mufflers.html)!! https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/morepower1-1.gif:

Whether you’re working on a Classic American Muscle Car or a late-model Mustang, Corvette or Challenger their innovative products, superior quality, GREAT customer service and exceptional technical advice allow you to make your exhaust purchase with absolute confidence that you are getting the best materials, best fit and best value available anywhere! https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/09/cheers-1.gif

Take advantage of their online ordering system when you select one of their exhaust systems, X-Pipes or accessories. Listen to the roar of their systems, check out install instructions, or just browse the picture gallery. (http://www.pypesexhaust.com/pictures.html)

If you’re looking for it, chances are, Pypes (http://www.pypesexhaust.com/) has it!!

[fletcherscustoms]

I can't thank all the manufacturers and folks that are coming together on this project enough!!
Ty's dream is slowly becoming reality and its all thanks to a bunch of warm hearted, giving folks!

Thanks so much from Fletcher's Customs!!

Stay tuned as we are on this build 100% from now till SEMA!
We will be constantly working on and giving lots of updates on CF-71 "Freedom Bird"!

New site for the car also:
www.fletcherscustoms.com (http://www.fletcherscustoms.com/)

[OLDFLM]

Check out the new CF-71 Freedom Bird build page at:

TIN INDIAN Performance (http://www.tinindianperformance.com/CF-71%20Freedom%20Bird.htm)

"There will also be a few new products that get revealed during this build
as well so be sure to stay tuned......" - Kevin Swaney https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2006/05/unibrow-1.gif

[fletcherscustoms]

We're happy to welcome another great company to the build team:

RobbMc Performance Products (http://www.robbmcperformance.com/)

Robb contributed a complete fuel system for the car capable of supporting up to 1100HP!

I think that's got us covered!? https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2005/09/paranoid-1.gif Thanks Robb from Fletcher's Customs!!

[OLDFLM]

I just can't thank Robb at RobbMc enough!! I called him up to ask about one of their 550HP mechanical fuel pumps and he set us up with their top of the line 1100HP pumps, one of their deadhead regulators, 100 and 40 micron filters, and their 1/2" fuel sending unit!! Not to mention all the clamps and fittings needed! Talk about great service and one stop shopping for a complete fuel system!! https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/09/cheers-1.gif

Needless to say, we're sending back the 3/8" fuel line to In-Line Tube in exchange for a 1/2" line with AN fittings now! Oh! Robb even put a -8AN fitting on the sending unit for us free of charge!! https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2005/04/thumbsup-1.gif

Thanks again Robb!

[OLDFLM]

Here are the 3D renderings of the emblems for CF-71 Freedom Bird... Ron will have them done this week! https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2005/04/hail-1.gif

We went with "Formula440" for the fenders and "F R E E D O M" for the rear filler panel between the tail lights...

Special thanks to Ron Wilson @ Wilson Muscle Cars (http://www.wmcdesigns.com/) for creating these pieces of automotive jewelry!! https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/09/cheers-1.gif

[cdoggy81]

Is "FREEDOM" going to be all one piece like in the pic or separate letters?

[OLDFLM]

It'll be all one piece with the background in black powdercoat... it should blend right in with the matt cleared carbon fiber filler panel from Anvil!

[WS6]

wow! this is coming along very nicely. The aftermarket vendor support is fantastic. Good luck getting it done in time for SEMA

[BMF Machine]

Man, I wish my back would have been in better shape. I would have loved to put a touch of class on it for ya. I also wish I would have hurt myself at work? As it is I do not have short term, I am not getting any any income, I have some disgustingly painful rods in my back, and will probably be flat broke before I can get back to work?

So,in short, I would also like to thank all the vendors that are pulling together to help Ty and Fletchers build a Dream. I for one can not wait to see this baby sitting under the SemA lights! I know how Proud Ty and Fletcher are gonna be!

[TonyL]

Just too awesome Ty, Im real happy this came together for ya. You deserve it!

[OLDFLM]

when you think how this all started with me just wanting to fix up my old Firebird with big brakes with nice wheels!
Then Chad started this build thread and it truly has taken on a life all it's own!

LOTS more updates coming with just 90-days left until SEMA!!!

['70rs]

Hey Ty, I made it over here! But there is a problem. There is no new pics here either! That's ok, I know they are coming. This is going to be the best Firebird out there! I can't wait to see it done. I wish I could get to SEMA this year to see it! :twothumbs

[hotwheels]

The parts are in the process of being molded and then made in carbon fiber. Once they are done, we will post pics!

[NOT A TA]

Any chance of finding out how much those carbon parts weigh compared to the original parts you made the molds from?

[OLDFLM]

Here's "a little something extra" courtesy of Bill Tichenor at Holley! Thanks Bill!! https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2005/04/thumbsup-1.gif

You know... "Just In Case!" https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/08/rolleyes1-1.gif

[fletcherscustoms]

Bill also hooked us up with a cool throttle cable linkage from Holley, in addition to this ultra cool/stealthy NOS Top Shot system!

If you've never seen it before, the Top Shot nitrous system is the easiest NOS kit to install! (And that's a good thing with SEMA less than 4 months away!) The injector nozzle simply slides over the carburetor/air filter stud without having to remove the carburetor. What could be easier?

What's more, the system is concealed within the air cleaner assembly, which is a huge bonus for us as Formula's are notorious for having low hood clearance! The Top Shot module requires no additional clearance where other plate systems usually do... With this system, the nitrous and fuel mixture is simply injected directly down into the top of the carb!

The Top Shot uses regular NOS and fuel flare jets which are adjustable from 75-150 HP...

"Just In Case!" https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2006/05/unibrow-1.gif

[OLDFLM]

Just heard from Kevin @ TIN INDIAN Performance! https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/08/drool-1.gif

... got rings cut last week and crank in. Need to install rear main seal and then check rod clearances.
After that, it will be ready to go together for the last time... Cam bearings are in and cam "fitted".
Now that they're back from the big Norwalk Pontiac event this past weekend and
once the rods are clearanced this thing will fly together... https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/03/bow-1.gif

[Fesler built]

Here you go Ty, some more stuff coming but wanted to show these off.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/08/Img00046-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/08/Img00052-1.jpg

These will be available in all the new finishes and when we get these back from Anodizing we will post them up for you.

[cdoggy81]

Now that's what I'm talking about! Nice Chris, nice :)

[Mr.VENGEANCE]

those are so nice my brotha.. get this thing going!

['70rs]

More nice parts! Very cool. I am looking forward to seeing pics of the actual car though....:idea: maybe soon huh?

[OLDFLM]

Here you go Ty, some more stuff coming but wanted to show these off.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/08/Img00046-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/08/Img00052-1.jpg

These will be available in all the new finishes and when we get these back from Anodizing we will post them up for you.


AMAZING!!! https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/09/cheers-1.gif https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/woot-1.gif https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/cheering-1.gif

Billet Jewelry!!! I can't wait to see these things in person!!!! https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2005/04/hail-1.gif

Not to mention the rest of the stuff you're working on!! Thanks Chris!!!!!!

[fletcherscustoms]

More nice parts! Very cool. I am looking forward to seeing pics of the actual car though....:idea: maybe soon huh?


Pictures and updates coming soon!!! We are 100% back on the car!!

We have been piddling with it while taking care of some other projects to fund the shop for the next three months while we work on a car with "no budget" for us!! lol

Look for updates this week as we've been prepping/stripping the underside of the car and doing some rust repair and stiffening to the body and frame rails. https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/09/cheers-1.gif

Now if I can just find that dang cord for my camera! :hmm:

[fletcherscustoms]

So who wants to know the SEMA news?!?!?!?! https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2005/04/thumbsup-1.gif

[justimagine]

Hey Ty,

The Firebird looks like it's coming along great! Please keep me in the loop as the build progresses. At this time, we have not made final decisions on the OUSCI participants, but you are officially in the running for one of the 40 spots we have available! Congratulations.

[OLDFLM]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2006/05/wow-1.gif Are you kidding me!? https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/03/faint-1.gif

ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC news Jimi!!! https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/woot-1.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/09/cheers-1.gif https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/cheering-1.gif https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/08/burnout-1.gif

I can hardly wait!!! https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/08/character38-1.gif

[camcojb]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2006/05/wow-1.gif Are you kidding me!? https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/03/faint-1.gif

ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC news Jimi!!! https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/woot-1.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/09/cheers-1.gif https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/cheering-1.gif https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/08/burnout-1.gif

I can hardly wait!!! https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/08/character38-1.gif
Jimi's a great guy. Congrats on the progress, car should be unbelieveable when done. :)

Jody

[OLDFLM]

Thanks Jody!! Any more updates on your Malibu?

[camcojb]

Thanks Jody!! Any more updates on your Malibu?
car is pretty much done, just driving it and sorting it out.

Jody

[OLDFLM]

Got these pics last week from Greg Ducato at Phoenix Transmission Products (http://www.phoenixtrans.com/) but I was on leave (vacation) with my family in Florida...

Here is the PT700R4SX trans, sub assembled and waiting final assembly... features over 40 performance and durability upgrades and modifications. These include: high load capacity sprags, high energy friction and band, increased pump volume and pressure, and more to provide the highest level of performance and economy possible.

[OLDFLM]

Nice, beefy GM 5 pinion, hardened case planetaries, late design low sprag assembly and super duty reaction sun shell... trans also features a stronger input drum and reaction shell along with a modified reverse input drum and special performance band.

[OLDFLM]

A nice pair of Billet servos, 2nd gear and 4th gear... their PT700R4SX is rated at 575 horsepower and 600 lbs. of torque in vehicles up to 3700 lbs... heavy duty reaction sun shell, 5 pinion rear planet and a host of other durability and performance modifications create the strongest 700R4 available!

[OLDFLM]

9.5 inch 2800 stall lockup torque converter with anti balloon hub... the special clutch in this converter has more surface area than even thier larger 298MM converter and a special heavy duty dampener with hardened splines. The converter features Torrington bearings and a heavy duty sprag, full furnace brazing and tig reinforced fins, anti ballooning plate and hardened turbine splines. These are custom built to your specifications and fully computer balanced. A very strong and reliable converter that gives you incredible acceleration potential and still retains the converter clutch for easy, low heat highway cruising.

[Bill Howell]

Since you are going to SEMA, you should join up with us and drive out. Ultimate Road Trip coming up soon.:smoke:

[fletcherscustoms]

Sounds good Bill! :wrc:

Speaking of SEMA... we have our designated SEMA spot for 2009!! It's been up in the air as to where we would actually be... knew we would be at SEMA with what looked like an outside spot. Well, a supporting sponsor has come forward and offered a whole lot more!!!

WE will be one of two "Feature" cars in the Pypes Performance Exhaust (http://www.pypesexhaust.com/) booth, located in the main hall center aisle right next to GM!! Lots of foot traffic and a GREAT area for the reveal for Ty on the first day of the show!

With the OPTIMA Ultimate Street Car Invitational invite possible and now this, it has been one hell of a comforting week! I really see now the commitment of this community to help out someone that has commited most of their life to protecting and serving us.

And the other good thing is concessions is nearby , as is the potty, but best of all A/C!!!!

[Bill Howell]

I am serious. There are three of us meeting in Nashville, driving out to Vegas, doing SEMA, doing the Optima Battery Challenge and driving home. We are calling it the Ultimate Road Trip. There will be magazine coverage on the trek. Come on and join us, we would love to add this car to the mix.

[fletcherscustoms]

The road trip sounds like a blast!! I'm just scared of the bad!!! The way my luck is something would happen... Who knows though!! I really want to do it.

Give me a shout on my email with all the details and will discuss it.
[email protected]

[fletcherscustoms]

Parts are rolling in and the cars rolling over!! Boy do I hate 38 year old undercoat!!!
Lots of pics coming tomorrow, some floor pan rust repair, shaved firewall metalwork done, and some other little goodies.

I leave you with
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[Mr.VENGEANCE]

argh... you killin me with that graffiti..


lol!

[fletcherscustoms]

Just a little more work on the belly of the car. This undercoat is nasty, GM used some good stuff back then. Most of it is removed. Tonight I will be media blasting it. Also firewall is partially shaved, few more holes to weld up and a lot more welding on the filler pieces.
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[OLDFLM]

Can't wait to see more pics and progress on the car...

'never seen it on it's side before in the 25 years I've owned it! LOL https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2005/09/paranoid-1.gif

I just can't thank Chad and Fletcher's Customs enough!!!!!! https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2005/04/hail-1.gif

This community has been a HUGE part of this project too!!

Thanks again to everyone involved! https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/03/bow-1.gif

V/R,
Ty

[Bill Howell]

This car is going to SEMA....this year right?
This is going to be another prodigy style build coming right down to the wire. Come on, finish it a week early and drive out with us...

[OLDFLM]

Have faith Bill... it WILL:fingersx: be done in time!!!

[Bill Howell]

Too funny Ty. There is a reason I don't post pictures of the charger right now. It is much closer than it appears to be in the pictures.

[OLDFLM]

Ah but you could always email me some my friend! LOVE your car!!

My Dad bought a 71 GTX 440 6-pack new in 71... Black with a white interior. I was 4 at the time and basically grew up in that car! He sold it a week before I got my driver's license at 16 afraid I'd get hurt if it was around... :drive2:
Little did he know what he'd started! :angel: LOL

Now I LOVE my 'bird and love that I've been able to keep it all these years since high school... but I always wish the old man had kept that GTX! That would have been :cool:!

Back on topic... I think the Roadster Shop may have had the right idea... build the car... finish it... and then start a build thread and post pics! No stress that way! :smoke:

[OLDFLM]

Just heard from Kevin Swaney at TIN INDIAN PERFORMANCE!

"Crank is in block with seal installed. Mains torque'd up. Rods have
bearings installed and all clearances checked. Crank endplay checked
and good. All rings cut. Need to get photographer on site to do pics
of cam install / degree. I could have the bottom end together by the
end of the week but that will not happen as I have to get pics of this
stuff. Hopefully next week.

Jeff (Kauffman @ KRE) is working on the heads and they will be done
soon. I want to have this thing on the dyno by the end of the month.
Prototype KRE North Wind Intake is machined... it is the Norwalk display we
had there. Hope to get some pics soon."

[fletcherscustoms]

We're happy to welcome another great company to the build team:

AFCO Racing Products

AFCO contributed a complete set of their new Pro Touring/Hot Rod shocks!

Each shock is 100% Billet Aluminum construction for precision and quality
AND they dyno test their shocks in house! https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2005/04/thumbsup-1.gif

Thanks Eric from Fletcher's Customs!! These things are sweet!!

[OLDFLM]

Now the most trusted name on the track is bringing its expertise to the street!! :1st:

AFCO's new double adjustable shocks provide the widest range of adjustments on the market for Pro Touring or Hot Rod applications! With just a simple click, you can go from the high performance demands of the track to the smooth and comfortable ride desired on the street!

We're going with their trademark "AFCO blue" and I think they'll look incredible on the car!!!
(They're also available in polished aluminum)

Special thanks to Eric Saffell for jumping thru hoops to get these on the car!! https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/woot-1.gif

[fletcherscustoms]

Space is quickly becoming a premium in the shop...

But I think we'll be able to find a home for it all very soon! https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/yesnod-1.gif

Here's a couple teaser shots of what's been showing up this week...

[LeighP]

Awesome build guys...good luck with it. I've just started on a 71 Firebird along similiar lines...maybe not as "bad" as this one...lol.

[fletcherscustoms]

We are plugging along. Just about have the bottom of the car done and ready for bedliner. Had some issues with both frame rails after blasting. The northern salt had taken its toll on them in a few places and thinned them out a little. With no budget left, I decided to just take a little time and fabricate new rails. New rails are 10 gauge material formed identical to the stockers, each rail is 6 separate pieces that were pieced together to form a rail that look almost identical to factory. You can also see in the pics a lot of spot welds on the rockers and so fourth shaving the not needed trim holes and misc holes that were drilled in this thing. Apparently it had been through a LOT of exhaust systems in its life time , and no body could figure how to use an existing hole. 14 holes in drivers side and 17 holes in passenger side, where the stock hangers were. You can also see were both front half pans were removed and are being replaced with Goodmark halfs...

We'll be finishing the floor and starting on suspension this week.


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[fletcherscustoms]

I'm working my butt off!! My guys are still finishing another project for a customer. So I'm on the Firebird "solo"!!! The underside is done with the fab work!! Frame rails are done, front floors are in and welded and two patch panels in trunk are also done!!! Got about a hour of grinding to do, then I'll be spraying the bedliner tomorrow night if all goes well. Then off the rotisserie and back on the lift to get busy with suspension mock up.

We had a communication mistake with BMR and got a few day wait on the proper piece we need for the 10-bolt rear under it, they thought we had a
12-bolt. Which we would love but I've already come out of my pocket as we have already blown all of Ty's budget on parts. So no money for a 12 bolt rear. Should be starting final bodywork mid next week!!

Things are going pretty smooth in my opnion. Luckily there's no crazy fab work to be done. This car will be a classic "any guy" pro touring car that can be driven hard and put up wet, but still make every man wish they had!!

[OLDFLM]

Chad and Fletcher's Customs continue to blow me away!!! :1st:

He's definately gotten in a LOT deeper than he agreed to when he took the car in for a basic scuff-n-shoot refresh of my old muscle car! Then my budget was quickly eaten up ten-fold with each new part added to the build consuming even more man-hours!!

He's never once complained and now he's come out of pocket for parts and materials to ensure the car will be done in time for SEMA... have you ever heard of a more dedicated, generous and giving person or builder??? :worship:

My hopes and prayers are that this car and the story behind his personal involvement in making my dream come true will serve as a calling card for Chad and Fletcher's Customs and that he is repaid for his generosity and friendship a thousand times over!!! :usa:

[fletcherscustoms]

What a long weekend!! But we crossed a very huge hurdle this weekend, the UNDERSIDE is done!! I did 23 hours alone on the car since Saturday morning!! After blasting the underside last weekend we found a ton of issues. Undercoating covered a lot!! Both side of the trunk floor had to be cut out, new panels formed and bead rolled to look stock, countless floor patches and welding up over 50 numerous drilled holes from years of stuff being attached under it. Also spent a good 8 hours hand forming new trunk drop down/closeout panels. Back in 1990 when Ty had partial quarters put on the car the guy cut the drop downs out and just welded some crappy sheetmetal in from the floor to the lower edge of the quarter. They came out and I formed a solid piece that acts as a support and closes out the inside of rear quarter section. More flashy than function but looks nice in my opinion. Rear frame rails are fully plated front to back, DSE subframe connectors are in, front floor pans are done, and going in primer and bedliner tonight. All major fabwork is complete, minus welding in a new rear lower tail panel, which I am cutting off a donor 72 bird. All rust repair is done and welded up, as well as metal straightening.

We will be putting the car on the ground this week! Suspension, wheels, brakes etc.

Then starting body work!! (again)

The hardest parts are done!!!!

I'll get a ton of pics tonight, but for now here are a few cell phone pics to hold you over!!

Underside all done, waiting for primer
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Cleaning up the welds( Josh)
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Crappy pic of trunk drop down closeouts in the initial construction
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[jy211]

pictures YAY!!!

[fletcherscustoms]

my shop is destroyed after the thrash this weekend!!! Tools everywhere, nasty rusty sheetmetal scraps all over the floor, etc, etc!! Its was great weekend!! lots of updates coming this week. By Friday she'll be on the ground!!!

[fletcherscustoms]

Another good day today!! Had three of us on the car for 5 hours each! Got the remaining bodywork, grinding, and a little bit of welding we found on the under side of the car done. Then seam sealed the DSE subframe connectors, the new floor pan seams just to be safe even though there welded solid, and then Josh grabbed the paint gun and went to town! Two nice coats of Epoxy primer, and then dumped 2 gallons of U-pol sprayable bedliner on the underside. I'm ecstatic on how the underside came out! Tomorrow off the the rotisserie and back on the lift.
Then BMR suspension mock up and subframe back under the car... getting close to being on the ground.

Pics coming in the morning when I get back to the office. Right now I'm posting this from my old laptop at home that my kids have somehow managed to make the screen turn 90 degrees, so the top of the page your viewing is now at the left side. And I can't figure out how to fix it. Being a Mac guy for 5 years has made me PC dumb!!

[fletcherscustoms]

Progress pics


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[jy211]

Looking great!

[OLDFLM]

As funny as it may sound... I never onced dreamed the bottom of the car could ever look so good!! https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2006/05/wow-1.gif
And those closeout panels for the trunk!!!! AMAZING detail and craftsmanship! https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2005/04/hail-1.gif GREAT work Chad, Josh and Jerry!!! https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2005/04/thumbsup-1.gif

[TitoJones]

We are getting closer to getting the new prototype Firebird parts for Ty's car delivered. We got these pics yesterday and we couldn't be happier with the over all product!

Nose piece with filled in plate recess:
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Front lower valance panel:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/09/24xme7q-1.jpg

Rear tail panel:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/09/34qtuh3-1.jpg

Rear spoiler center section:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/09/9hv3h0-1.jpg

Can't wait to see the car at SEMA!

Tyler

[TonyL]

Freaking sweet!!

[OLDFLM]

Simply AMAZING!!! Can't wait to see it all on the car! :jawdrop:

[a73formula]

those are the parts I've been waiting for, now to find a carbon fiber formula hood with a 4" cowl in the middle and I'll be set.

[OLDFLM]

The Formula hood is being made now... pics to come as soon as Anvil gets them!!

[srh3trinity]

Any projection as to when Anvil will have these parts for the general public? The car is shaping up nicely. Thanks for serving!

[fletcherscustoms]

Yesterday was spent doing some house work, getting the car off the rotisserie and then onto the lift... cleaning up a little from the underside thrash the last few days and doing some media blasting on the rear end and the subframe. I got all the parts layed out from BMR. And my guys are painting the subframe and rearend today.
I'll be installing all the suspension components tonight if all goes well!

Here are some pics to hold you over...

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[jy211]

ah no worries....everything will fit up correctly....LOL

[Mr.VENGEANCE]

man those parts look SICK!!!

[a73formula]

looking good, thanks for the e-mail.

[srh3trinity]

Is the Watts link from BMR? Is that the new torque arm setup? Looking forward to seeing it come together.

[OLDFLM]

It is BMR's rear Torque Arm Conversion Kit! The kit comes complete with a transmission crossmember, adjustable torque arm, Watts Link, double adjustable coilover shocks, shock upper crossmember, lower control arms, and all necessary hardware.

This truly bolt-in kit can be installed without any fabrication or welding, so the installation costs are much lower compared to other aftermarket rear suspension kits. And they have 1st Gen and 2nd Gen F-body kids available now!

We're using their tubular A-arms and sway bar up front as well.
For complete product details, contact BMR Fabrication, Inc., 12581 N. US Highway 301, Thonotosassa, FL 33592, www.bmrfabrication.com, (813) 986-9302.

[srh3trinity]

Is ground clearance going to be an issue, the torque arm sits below the driveshaft correct? I have been watching the progress of that setup. I didn't know it had a Watts link, I thought it had a Panhard bar instead. Keep us posted on the install.

[BlkBird]

those are the parts I've been waiting for, now to find a carbon fiber formula hood with a 4" cowl in the middle and I'll be set.

Well its not done, its fiberglass instead of carbon fiber and its only 3", but I think its pretty cool.

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http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewPicture&friendID=485769582&albumId=432878

[fletcherscustoms]

UPDATES< UPDATES!!!!!

Yesterday was spent media blasting parts!! Subframe, rear end, front rear spring buckets, etc, etc. Then late last night, we got some color on them. Color is "hot rod black" which is suppossed to be a 60% gloss finish. These pics are 5 minutes after they were sprayed and rolled back in the shop. Also started the BMR install. Which is going together awesome

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[INTMD8]

Very nice!!!

[fletcherscustoms]

Just wanted to send out another update for all of you... We were contacted last week about the possibility of being on the PowerBlock on Spike TV... They loved the story behind the car and how all the different companies have come together to help make Ty's dream a reality. They loved what everyone was doing and want to show it to the world!

We got the call this morning from John Kurtz, head producer of Powerblock TV and he confirmed he wants us on the show with the car! So after SEMA we will have a few weeks to tie up any loose ends, then head to Franklin, TN, to the Powerblock studio to tape an episode with Courtney Hansen on December 8th and 9th. The car and interviews with Ty and myself will air in between each of different shows. Basically a few minutes each half hour, with interviews, walk around camera footage of the car, etc!!

Great opportunity for all our sponsors and supporters to get a little more credit for all they have done!!

Once again, I can't thank everyone who has given to the project enough!!!

Here's the Powerblock TV site http://www.powerblocktv.com/site3/

[a73formula]

That sounds awesome. The hood came out cool. I have a friend with a 68 firebird that has a similar hood on his. I'll get a pic up of mine, its still in the sanding process but has been that way for like 4 yrs now( i should really finish sanding it).

[OLDFLM]

Well its not done, its fiberglass instead of carbon fiber and its only 3", but I think its pretty cool.

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http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewPicture&friendID=485769582&albumId=432878

Very cool hood Mike! Should work well for those guys wanting more room under the hood!! :cool:

Pics coming shortly of the carbon fiber hood for my car from Anvil! Stay tuned!

[BlkBird]

Thanks Ty! That means alot! John (NOTATA) keeps telling me I should make a mold off it but for now Im just trying to finish it for my car, lol. In case its not completely apparent in the pic, I dont have a garage, Im working on my deck in the back yard with 4 dogs in my way (3 of whom even made their way into that pic, lol). Winter's coming up fast so Im just hoping to get it all done and in primer before then.

[m6z]

nice work.

[OLDFLM]

My hopes and prayers are that this car and the story behind his personal involvement in making my dream come true will serve as a calling card for Chad and Fletcher's Customs and that he is repaid for his generosity and friendship a thousand times over!!! :usa:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/09/powerblock_10_800-1.jpg

[OLDFLM]

Talk about progress!!! Chad and his crew are animals!!

Just got these via cell phone from Chad:

BMR Rear Torque Arm Suspension INSTALLED!!! Lovin' that custom silver/grey powdercoat from BMR! Thanks Allan!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/09/Rearend4Sep09cropped-1.jpg

With my 295/40/18 Falken 615 tires!! "They ain't 20s... but they nice!" LOL (Name the movie?)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/09/RearwithTires4Sep09cropped-1.jpg

13" DBA rotors/KORE3 Brakes INSTALLED!! Thanks Tobin!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/09/rearbrakes4Sep09cropped-1.jpg

18x10 Rushforth Superspokes out back!! Still the best looking wheel out there imho JayR!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/09/rearwheel4Sep09cropped-1.jpg

More updates coming soon!! So stay tuned!

[OLDFLM]

Subframe coming together...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/09/IMG00023200909041722-1.jpg

Notice the lower A-arm STAINLESS 316 heavy hardware...
Another great detail from my builder and friend Chad Fletcher!!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/09/LowerAarmstainless316heavyhardware-1.jpg

More to follow... (c:]

[fletcherscustoms]

Another CRAZY busy day today!! Josh and I each did 14 hours on the car! I got the rear done and started on the subframe... Josh has been plugging away on the firewall; it's fully shaved/bodyworked and getting primed in the morning and maybe some color by days end, so that Sunday I can get the subframe under the car and back on the ground! I'm getting lots of pics with my camera for later updates! Just easier today to whip out the phone grab a pic, forward to Ty and keep at it... more tomorrow!

:pics2:

[Bill Howell]

Nice rearend, should work great.:)

[OLDFLM]

Nice rearend, should work great.:)

I'm diggin' it too!! I think it'll all work very well together! :drive: