"After the Fire" 1968 Firebird

[dlrepmn]

Thank you for a bunch of inspiration. The rides on here are truly spectacular.

After quite a few years I have decided to take my baby the Pro-Touring route.

Introducing "After the Fire".

This is my 1968 Firebird Sprint that I received for my high school graduation present in 1985. I have kept her all these years. When I got her there was 63,000 miles on it. Now over 72,000. I used it for everyday transportation to college one year until the first winter and found out I needed something that I didn't want to sacrifice to a Michigan Winter.

I didn't name her. The guys at the paint shop did. Back in 1992 I slept peacefully in my rental condo and the next morning found that someone had set my car cover on fire. Firefighters couldn't find out who owned it. The only thing that wasn't burned was the roof and the deck lid. Anything plastic on the car was melted. I was devastated. My car was charcoal.

I took the car to Jimmy Lewis of Lewis Collision in Houghton Lake Michigan. I told Jimmy to just paint it so I could sell it. He asked if we wanted to take it full boat with the subframe off and I said no, just get it to a point where I can sell it.

Needless to say when it was done it was so pretty I couldn't sell it. They had the car for 1 1/2 years. It wasn't until a few years ago that I found out they had named it "After the Fire". We have had him paint my dad's '34 3 window and my uncle's 60 Bentley.

I have had this motor (4.1 Liter OHC) out and back in 3 times since I have had the car. New cam, lifters, seals, you name it. Very oily motor (which helped in the long run under the car). I kept it original since 1985.

Fast forward to 2008. I have lived in Minnesota for 12 years. Now I have 4 kids and not a dime for the car. I still kept it though. I drove it about 4 times a year.

I go to "Back to the Fifties" and "Car Craft Nationals" which always provided inspiration. I moved from Motor City to Hot Rod City.

I had purchased a basket case 1940 Ford Pickup to go to 50's with. It was a heap. I was over my head. I purchased a full street rod frame from from Total Cost Involved in California. It sat, it sat, the wife complained, the wife complained.

Well I took it to 50's last year and sold the thing and probably lost a grand on the whole deal (thankfully).

I did build a motor for my truck though. A 383 Stroker Chevy motor. Yes, a Chevy for a Ford.

I did it full out. They needed a roof. I needed a motor for my truck. It ended up as the motor builder's display in the Minneapolis Boat Show. Everything is chrome or polished.

I could never dig into the Bird since the Pontiac guys were GA-GA over the very rare Sprint (only 1600 made in 1968). Yes, it was the 210HP four speed with the 4 barrel (H cam) true dual exhaust. I had 2 offers for the car at Car Craft. I called the wife and said "here you go, money". I get a new corvette!. She said don't sell the car, the car is you.

Between Pro-Touring.com and Car Craft I found inspiration. I told her that if we were keeping it I was going to put some money into the car.

Well, now we have a Quadra-Link being installed with Detroit Speed and Engineering mini-tubs. A Chris Alston Chassisworks complete show subframe power rack with 6 piston Wilwood brakes all around. Vintage air with Billet Specialties pulley kit. An Ididit tilt column. 12" BFG KDW 2's on the back and 10" on the front. A narrowed 12 bolt. A Tremec 5 Speed. And I am on the edge of two toning the car black with the original red on the bottom. I have decided on Intro Wheels Vista 2's that I am trying to get Year One to anodize the spokes black to resemble a Pontiac Rally wheel, but 18's and polished. We are blasting and painting under the car and engine compartment which I should have done in the beginning.

I am using AJ' from Overhaulin's "Lady Bird" for a lot of ideas. I know, its still bitch'n for a girl car. Mine is for sure a boy car. I am even installing the 2002 Camaro seats with the headrests removed. Changing from a white standard interior to a black deluxe with power windows and power locks.

I found the Hot Rod Factory at Car Craft Nationals. I went over with a neighbor to buy a 1970 Chevelle Malibu that he is turning into an SS. I was impressed with their open house.

Too late now, there is no turning back now. Yes, there will be a Chevy in a Pontiac, sorry. It did pull over 400HP and over 450lbs of torque on the dyno just last month. Sorry, I am just going to have to deal with it. This is more torque than AJ's LS3.

http://www.popularhotrodding.com/features/0810phr_adrienne_janic_1968_pontiac_firebird/index.html

I am going to fill in all the 4.1 badges and replace my rockers with plain no emblems.

Here is "After the Fire"

http://www.hotrodfactory.net/groups/list_images.php?aid=58

Scott in Minnesota

[Motown 454]

Welcome you've come to the right place . Keep us updated on your progress.

[T_Raven]

nice project. i must say i'm against the 383. small blocks are so played out unless the car originally came with one. but do what you gotta do.

my 67 was an inline 6 with 3 on the tree though not a sprint. they are cool engines for an old L6. i've considered turbo charging it and putting it back in. i've got an ls1 and t56 that will go in it.

can't wait to see some progress

[Steve Firebird]

Sounds like I nice project.

[T_Raven]

i just reread your post. i didn't read it right the first time and thought you were putting the 383 out of the truck in it. what engine are you using?

[gto406]

Sounds like a Chebby. Shame all these Poncho's are getting polluted with corporate motors. Sorry, the only Chev's in Poncho's should be in the Canadian Pontiac's (i.e. Beaumont's, Acadians, etc.). Bird's came with Poncho engines. You are seeing fewer & fewer with the original motors.

If I were you I would at least 'hold on' to the Sprint drivetrain. That combo (particularly with the 4bbl) is rare. Perhaps the next guy will want to put it back in the car (see Hot Rod's 'Dare to be different').


Check last months Hot Rod, if you want Fuel Injection, it is possible to do it on just about any motor you want these days.

Good luck with the project,
Brian
'72 GTO
(staying 'real' with the Poncho mill the car came with)

[dlrepmn]

Yes, it is a Chevy. I actually don't even know what it is out of actually. The engine builder put it together for his street rod project than never got off the ground. The builder ran up to me when I dropped it off to dyno it and immediately recognized it and said "I built that one."

You must realize I agonized over this decision for 23 years. I had this sucker out 3 times and it is just a horribly oily motor. It gets all over my firewall, the block, the distributor, floors. I have done seals, lifters, cam, you name it. I ran this motor since 1985 with much frustration. You have to give me some partial credit for that. I drove my Pontiac in Pontiac, MI for years.

Now that inliners are just really beginning to get cool and supercharging a 4.1 would be supercool. Yes, it is in the corner of my shop. Yes, I have already had offers for it and the Hurst 4 speed and it still sitting there.

I actually had plans for a GTO donor motor/trans transplant. Now the trendy thing to do seems to be an LS3 or LS7 transplant. Yes, some did come in the new GTO, but is it really a Pontiac mill in the old sense?

I can change the setup on the CA Chassisworks subframe to install a new generation motor, but a 502/572 seems to be popular too. Also over $10,000.00. I paid less than $3000.00 for a 400HP/450ftlb motor that is fully polished thanks to my little barter with the builder. The rest is going into the suspension/trans/interior/rims, etc.. We're way over $30,000 and 100 hours into the car and I don't even have the motor in yet.

I did have this motor just sitting on the floor unused. I built it for my '40 Ford Pickup (given up and sold project). I can always sell it later.

After the mini-tubs there is no turning back. Be realistic, what would you rather restore a 350, 400, or 455 or a 4.1 OHC Sprint car? 210HP? I wanted some more. Is it bad to want more?

It just simply costs way more to build a old Pontiac motor. I respect your opinions since I had the same ones for my entire life. There used to be a understanding that only numbers matching cars mattered. Life has changed.

Restomod is now much more popular. Why not have a car that handles like a new car? I thought that was the whole purpose of Pro-Touring?

Trust me I have driven this car with manual steering, manual drum brakes for years (they just failed, what fun that was). With the bolt on suspension parts and quadralink rear, fat tires, why not? A new Tremec 5 speed is going back in, not the Muncie 4. This is better right?

I am doing this and keeping my 1995 paintjob, for now anyway. There isn't a chip on it. I am trying to stick to a budget which is difficult when building a car. I have the money, but I am also trying to keep this reasonable and a drivable car as much as possible.

I have a customer with a Lemans that he has over $12,000 into the Indian powerplant. He said he would never do it again with the availability and cost of the new crate motors. He also was a die hard Pontiac guy. It just doesn't make financial sense like it used to.

So to review, I have sinned O'Lord! Please forgive me, but give me dependable inexpensive power for my pro-touring muscle car.

I will just have to keep the hood closed at the Pontiac events.

Sorry! No malcontent intended or implied.

Scott in Minnesota

[Steve Firebird]

Scott don't let it bother you. I am a die hard Pontiac guy and I say use what you have and enjoy it. Its not like you came to a pure Pontiac site and started tring to pick a fight. This is a PT site. I get tired of guys ripping on others that don't do what they think is right or cool with there owns cars. I also get allitle tired of hearing how Pontiac engine are not worth rebuilding ect.. I say to each his own and you can park next to my Firebird any time with you hood up. :)

[67SSDan]

Ah.... this is going to be cool. I'm a fan of those early 'birds.

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

Keep us posted.

Dan

[dlrepmn]

Steve you make a lot of sense.

Consider a lawn chair and a beverage reserved for you anytime.

With the hood up of course. Have fun with what you brought.

Thanks,

Scott in Minnesota

[NOT A TA]

Scott don't let it bother you. I am a die hard Pontiac guy and I say use what you have and enjoy it. Its not like you came to a pure Pontiac site and started tring to pick a fight. This is a PT site. I get tired of guys ripping on others that don't do what they think is right or cool with there owns cars. I also get allitle tired of hearing how Pontiac engine are not worth rebuilding ect.. I say to each his own and you can park next to my Firebird any time with you hood up. :)

Amen

I'm running a Pontiac engine in my Firebird but I'm gonna need 650-700 HP to run the speeds I want to go at land speed racing and open road racing events. It'll be a tough decision whether or not to go over to the "corporate" engines which can be less expensive to build to that level. I keep hoping I'll run across a "deal" on an IA II but it's not likely.

[1968CamaroSS_Sam]

The car is looking great. Love the color. Please keep us posted.

[T_Raven]

Don't take offense on the engine thing buddy. you've already got your 383 so go ahead and use it. i personally like to see things that are less common. such as the 68 camaro with the twin turbo small block ford that was in popular hot rodding may 08. i personally like the looks of a pontiac engine. i also like the placement of the spark plugs though the head design isn't as efficient with the exhaust port that low. i also don't feel that a pontiac engine is necessarily more expensive than a chevy when you consider that small blocks have less cubes and big blocks are heavier and just as expensive to build. anyway, just sharing some thoughts. can't wait to see some progress pics of your car.

[dlrepmn]

Thanks to everyone for the support. I dig a new hemi too, but then everyone would really have a heart attack.

I have been seeing them more and more in some "dare to be different" cars.

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

No offense taken. I am still going to have fun with it.

http://hotrodfactory.net/groups/list_images.php?aid=58

Scott in Minnesota

[dlrepmn]

My 12 bolt housing and the subframe is being sent out to be powdercoated this week and I have to take my new rear bumper over today. Rich is also going to use parts of my old inner fenders to extend the new inners to better fit around the new lower profile/position upper control arms.

They are pretty much ready to paint underneath the car and the engine compartment.

I am still waiting to see if my front bumper can be rechromed. The rear was toast, but they had another original GM core that they had already done that was not an repop.

Have a great day!

Scott in Minnesota

[dlrepmn]

The red color is actually a Chrysler color off a color chart when we painted it in 1995.

Had I known there were going to be so many pictures I would have washed the car before I took it over. A year of garage dust since I pulled the 4.1.

It surely looks much better clean, but I was exited to take it over.

Scott in Minnesota

[gto406]

No disrespect to you (or anyone running Chev's) Scott. You should run what you have, and the Chev is a very good motor.

For me, it is just heart-breaking not to see the old Poncho mills in there, so please don't mind a little despair on my part. I am sure the car will absolutely 'rock' ;^)

Not-A-TA, I think you can achieve the power levels you are looking for without going to an IAII. If you need a good Poncho engine builder, I can refer you to a guy in Canada. With the CDN $ back in the 'dumper' (it was .81 cents US last time I checked) you would get good value.

With the parts/knowledge available now, I can't see why it wouldn't be possible to make 600+hp with a normally aspirated Poncho (e.g. a 406, or larger). You should even be able to reach the bottom end of those power levels with a good set of ported D-Ports. The aftermarket has gotten alot better, and there are some really excellent builders out there making good power with Pontiac motors.

Remember, Pontiac's have torque, good for powering out of corners!

Best of luck,
Brian
'72 GTO.

[dlrepmn]

They should have painted the bottom of the car and the engine compartment yesterday.

I got a phone call from Kevin at Ghostworks at Year One today. I am trying to get all the interior parts lined up. These are the folks that built "Lady Bird" that I am using some ideas from. I just dig the look of the car. That was my final inspiration to get off the pot on this project.

Ordering the wheels (vistas) this week from Intro. The tires are on order. The only thing missing from the front suspension is the power rack from CA Chassisworks. OOOOOUUUUUCCCCCHHHH!!!
Show clip with 14" Wilwood drilled and slotted rotors and 6 piston calipers over $8500.00.

Tire sizes are 235-35-18 front and 315-30-18. Big boys for a boy car.

The Tremec TKO600 has arrived. Centerforce Clutch, bellhousing. Time to order the Billet Specialties Tru-Trax system. Another OOOOUUUUCCCCHHH!!!

http://www.popularhotrodding.com/features/0810phr_adrienne_janic_1968_pontiac_firebird/photo_07.html

I started looking at a Billet Specialties wheel the roulette, but they are even more expensive and I was set on the Intros anyway. More like a Pontiac Rally than any other.

Believe it or not I turned down an offer from my dad years ago to tub the car and put a 455 in it and I declined to keep the car original with the 4.1 Liter OHC.

My builder had a sweet LS3 that supposedly has 535HP for another customer. Maybe I could put some GTO engine covers on it. Maybe even the Firebird covers once the new one comes out in 2011 like I think it will. There will be a new car payment.

Very tempted. May still do it in another year or two. First things first.

I will be at Car Craft Nationals this year with the car. That's my goal.

Now it's time to put it back together. I have new pics, but I can't figure how to get them on this page.

Thanks for the support guys. Even though I have sinned I still feel really good and very excited about the project.

Scott in Minnesota

[dlrepmn]

trying pics

[dlrepmn]

Trying pics again larger this time

[dlrepmn]

These are 17" wheels and Michelin Pilot Sports that someone is taking off their car and putting 20" wheels on instead.

I considered these, but not the look I want. For $1700.00 how could you go wrong though.

[dlrepmn]

Wow,

http://hotrodfactory.net/groups/list_images.php?aid=58

Pretty happy boy!

The coilovers are obviously missing, but have arrived. They are putting together the rear end. I just dropped off my newly re-chromed front bumper yesterday morning.

I switched from the BFG KDW2's to the Falken Azenis RT-615. The BFG's in the 315-30-18 was only available in a drag radial. Even though I prefer the look of the BFG, they weren't treaded all the way across. The Falkens are. Better wet traction. Safer. They look pretty killer. They look pretty big. I am getting very giddy!

We are waiting on the flywheel or the Tremec would be in too. The Tru-Track has been ordered and the tires are on the way.

That motor was not in the clip yesterday morning.

Have a great Thanksgiving! I know I will.

Scott in Minnesota

[dlrepmn]

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

[dlrepmn]

I am trying to figure out photobucket

[Josh69]

Cool, another PT 'bird in MN. Looks great so far! I live out in Rockford and will be at most of the local events with mine next year. Just had to pull the motor to repair some leaks...so I feel your pain with the old Poncho. Good luck with the rest of it! I still have the interior to do, and final cut/polish on my paint, etc. Details, details....

[dlrepmn]

Thanks Josh,

It was pain I assure you.

The motor is in the subframe and we were waiting on the flywheel which had to be externally balanced before mounting the Tremec TKO600 which has arrived. The little radiator supports, cross braces, hood catch, little parts are all back from the powdercoater. The clutch is installed. I had to run the old clutch fork out to them yesterday and got a good look for myself. The clutch fork will be the only remaining part of the drivetrain. Radiator is at the shop. The vintage air unit needs to be installed under the dash. The air condenser line bulkhead has to be installed.

Rich has welded up the new Goodmark inner fenders so the opening is going to be closer without the giant gap next to the tubular control arm uppers. The arms for the Quadra-Link were hanging from hooks drying with fresh paint.

After waiting all week for the flywheel to come from Mississippi, he ended up finding one in town (Minneapolis). The sub-frame, motor, and rear goes in Monday. I will post new pics once I get them. Tires are on the way, wheels are ordered and 4 weeks out. 12 inch wide is custom made and needs 4 hoops for 2 wheels. $650.00 per wheel extra.

After these assemblies go in we need to plumb brake lines, fuel lines, new fuel tank, then we get her running. Well, with an open headers anyway. Can't wait to hear it. I will be there for the start.

The deck lid is re-installed, the rear bumper (newly rechromed although someone else's) are now installed. Rich painted the trunk, looks much better than before. A couple pin holes, but I will cover it anyway.

I have to call the local auto recycler (used to be junkyard guy) to find some 2002 Camaro/Trans Am seats to redo with new black leather with dark graphite gray inserts. Removing the head rests. We need to recut the old back seat frame to fit around the mini-tubs and match the leather on the front seats. Other than that the new black deluxe interior is going in with power windows/locks. I have to find a way to replace my burl wood console top since it shows water damage from when the windshield leaked when I got the car in 1985. Oh, and stereo, another couple grand, probably more. I get carried away obviously.

Decided to start with a new wiring harness since my marker lights weren't working before. Another grand. Replacing the gauge cluster with Classic Instruments, Another grand. And so-on. Grand, grand, grand. The big parts are mostly done though.

http://www.classicinstruments.com/index.aspx?documentID=camaro1

I think the black with white needles is enough of a change. The red needle gauges look almost identical to stock.

I half entertained the idea "we may as well paint it now". Then I came to my senses. We will paint it again next year or year after. Ordered new chrome wheel lip moldings and trying to find out if I can change to the rectangular mirrors and add one to the passenger side. I can live with the couple burnout chips on the quarters, there will be more I assure you.

Have a great day!

Scott in Minnesota

[Josh69]

The mirrors are an easy add, I did the same. Just need to drill a couple of small holes for the two screws to hold down the bracket that the mirror attaches to. I think the round vs rectangular mirror uses the same mounting method as well. Assuming you are talking about the chrome ones...the plastic housing style may require different mounts.

I'm looking forward to seeing it!

Mine is built to run as well...I've already got bugs still splattered on the nose and it bothers me none. Brake dust and rubber bits will be standard show fare in my book. I didn't build it to watch it rot...it's going to be my daily driver as much as feasible.

[dlrepmn]

Happy New Year!

I have new pictures for "After the Fire"

http://hotrodfactory.net/groups/list_images.php?aid=58

Sorry to have only the link. I will have to take some pictures myself after the New Year. This is so much easier though. I still haven't figured out photobucket even though I have read that sticky 3 times.

The cover goes on the rear end today. Motor/trans/sub installed. Sub-frame connectors are in. Radiator core support and braces, in. Inner fenders are in (they look killer). The coilovers should be on their way. The wheels are 2 weeks away. The tires should have been there by now. The Tru-Trax is getting installed this week. The aluminum radiator/dual fans next. The fuel lines and brake lines are going next. A fuel tank then the Flowmaster exhaust once the wheels are mounted up and we can see where everything looks good. Those wheels aren't mine, but off the wicked corvette nearby. Thanks for the use of the wheels Tony (whoever you are) for mock-up!

And I bought a set of 2000 Firebird seats that I am removing the headrests and installing new Katzkin leather covers in black with dark graphite inserts. There will be dark graphite double stitching too for an accent color. The '68 rear seat is going to be made to fit around the mini-tubs and then another Katzkin cover to match the fronts. They look period correct, but will be much more comfortable than my '68 seats. The rest will be stock deluxe black with power windows. No more parchment.

I am tired of trying to get grease off the white interior anyway. Change is good right? Oh, not having used bleach white as a kid to clean it would have helped too. Live and learn!

Now I have picked the Alpine/JL Audio/Morel speakers. Thank god my brother is an audio geek and will figure this out for me.

Happy New Year!

[dlrepmn]

Oh, by the way.

The coilovers never arrived like I thought I was told. Something about they are readily accessible in town. We'll be monitoring that one to see when they actually do arrive.

I do have to admit the quality of the work is top notch and I haven't been told anything that would get me worried up to this point. So far, so good.

[T_Raven]

Awww come on man photobucket is so easy lol.

First resize the pics so that they aren't too big.

log into photobucket and in the center of the page is a blue "choose files" button. Click it, find the pics you want. Hold "cntrl" to select multiple pics.

Once the pics are in photobucket you place your cursor over the pic you want. A box drops down with 4 blocks. Click on the bottom block "IMG code". Just clicking will copy the link and it will say "Copied"

Now back here just paste (cntrl V, or right click) the link into the text. You have to hit enter between pics so that they are in a column rather than a long A$$ row that makes the thread too wide.

[BossaNova]

Love your project man.
Keep the updates coming.

[dlrepmn]

I had a good excuse to back to the shop. My neighbor's 70 chevelle. He dropped the motor (71 corvette 454) on the frame after he painted it, installed the Just Suspensions complete kit and it has no play in it whatsoever even with three big guys sitting on it. Also the Hedman headers are about 1/16" away from the tubular upper control arm.

Rich said they have never found a set of Hedman header's that would fit in a chevelle and to replace them with Hookers and they will drop right in. Of course Summit never mentioned that little tidbit.

My Hedman headers fit just right in the Bird.

The suspension won't have any play in it until the body, doors, hood, glass and all goes on. Especially with stock height springs. Steve's wife won't let him play with coil springs again and we will drag the car to the shop and redo if it doesn't drop when we get everything on. He got lot's of new ideas and this trip just cost Steve (1) new vintage air kit and bulkhead and lots of time to smooth his firewall.

This is how it starts you know? Slippery slope.

Anybody need a set of headers that won't fit? Nice ceramic coated and only installed once.

Try, try, again.

Oh, well here is another photobucket effort with pictures of my car.

Yes, I am changing the wheel lip moldings that are pretty beat. Good thing I changed the wheel tubs. That isn't a great sound when you hit a bump and your tires hit the well. I did change the shocks, but never got around to the springs. $500 Year One/Eaton springs and shackle kit brand new sitting on my shelf. Oh well. Quadra-Link is better right?

These are also not my wheels and tires, but off the chevelle nearby. They are 345-17 not the 315-18 I have coming. I did confirm that the Intro's were ordered correctly as "fully polished". The front Falkens are at the tire distributor, but not the rears due to the size. Still waiting. 315-30-18's. Man the 345's look huge on my car! Too big almost. If there ever was such a thing.

Thanks other guy I don't know! I wonder if these guys know they were so helpful with the borrowing the wheels deal? He was trying to sell me the wheels so he did know we might try them on for size.

https://www.pro-touring.com/forum/images/smilies/thinkerg.gif

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I am a Photobucket god now! Thanks for the tips!

[Tom Welch]

Hi Scott, nice project. If you have the old wheel lip mouldings and if they have been removed without too much bending I would like to talk with you about buying them. I want to test fit them on my 67 bird to verify fit of new ones and to verify wheel lip contour of quarters and fenders.

[dlrepmn]

Done Tom,

With one exception. You are taking them for your project free. You pay the freight. No charge for the moldings. I couldn't charge you for them. I am taking them off since they are not in the best shape. They are not horrible, I just want perfect ones. If you have the time and a buffing wheel, you could live with these.

PM me your address and I will send them to you when I get the new ones.

[Flash68]

Sweet Firechicken! Keep us posted!

[dlrepmn]

Ok Flash,

Just so you know your cars are frick'n incredible. I'm not worthy!

Pretty cool!

God there are such sweet rides on this site. This is going to cost more to keep up with these Jones's.

Thanks!

[dlrepmn]

This is the wheel and horn button from Lady Bird.

I want the exact ones. Tech support at Grant does agree it looks like their 1020 wheel, but it is not their horn button. Anybody have any ideas? I can't find it anywhere.

Year One tech support doesn't know. The car was done at Ghostworks and they are pretty busy with other projects or they don't want to share the build sheet for some reason. I would buy it from them since they are a Grant dealer

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

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

Thanks!

[Tom Welch]

The center cap could be from a 68 deluxe wheel, I have a faded one. I dont see why one couldnt be turned down to the correct size.

[ed1le]

Scott don't let it bother you. I am a die hard Pontiac guy and I say use what you have and enjoy it. Its not like you came to a pure Pontiac site and started tring to pick a fight. This is a PT site. I get tired of guys ripping on others that don't do what they think is right or cool with there owns cars. I also get allitle tired of hearing how Pontiac engine are not worth rebuilding ect.. I say to each his own and you can park next to my Firebird any time with you hood up. :)

Hey Scott, great story! I've gotten a bunch of crap on the buick sites about running the sbc in my skylark but is was so much more economical for me to do so vs. building up the buick 350. Plus, it's not like mine is anything special either, just a regular Skylark. Although I must say the Sprint is a pretty rare setup, just hang on to it as you seem to be doing. You and this car have quite the history so do with it as you like and continue to enjoy it! :)

[CliffS]

Sweet project Scott!! Don't sweat about the sbc. If I had to do it all over again it would be a tuff choise; going Poncho or LS. Your idea about an Hemi mill would rock too!!
Keep it comin'

[Tom Welch]

Scott I really appreciate your offer and I accept your terms. Let me know when, thanks again.

[2manybirds]

Nice ride. I've got three 1st gens plus extra engines and i'm still thinking about going chevy in one of them. You gotta have fun and getting a good deal on a motor is FUN

[dlrepmn]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/01/DSCN0632-1.jpg

My seats arrived by truck today. They look brand new. Not a bad deal for $230.00 and freight. Everyone else wanted $600-$900. Maybe you can get a deal on E-bay? They recline, fold forward, and are very comfortable and supportive. I am contemplating putting them in just the way they are since they are in such great shape. Power on the driver and manual on the passenger.

They are 2000 Firebird seats. Firebird seats for a firebird.

I am going to remove the headrests and install black Katzkin leather covers with dark graphite inserts and dark graphite double stitching as an accent.

They were supposed to install the Billet Specialties Tru-Trax today. The tank is in (on the floor not in the car) and all the fittings to run the fuel and brake lines. Holley fuel pump as well.

I sold the GTO wheels and Goodyear GT+4's for $500.00. I got at a swap meet years ago and the tires were from 1996, but they had very little wear. You have to love Craigslist!

Have a great day!

Not only did I figure out photobucket, but now smiles!

:bananna2:

[dlrepmn]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/01/DSCN0629-1.jpg

[1971CHEVELLE]

Sweet project:)

[Steve Firebird]

The project looks to be moving a long great. Keep at it. It is going to be a great car. I have to say I just picked up the 400 Pontiac engine I had rebulid. I did it right used good parts and cut no corners and I have to say I am not sure if I want to go that route next time. If (when) I tear up the 455 in my 68 I may go with a LS engine. I can pick up a nice LS2 with trans for less then it cost me to build my 400. I quess the only question would be the cost to put it in the firebird. Anyway good luck with the bird and keep us posted.

[dlrepmn]

:slap:Boy, it wasn't my intention to tweak people with the chevy motor when I started this project. I am just using a motor that I just so happened to have from my own stupidity. I was trying to save a buck on the project by using the one from my abandoned street rod project.

I did go back and forth, but I kept coming back to "there is a perfectly good 400HP/450ftlb motor sitting right there on the floor". I guess it was laziness since I was exited to get started on it. I didn't want to wait to sell this one and have to pay even more for a new one. Specifically the LS2 GTO donor deal from e-bay which wasn't that bad really. My dad was ready to buy the chevy (with a little coaxing) to install in his '34 Ford.

Now I see the anti Pontiac wearing a bow-tie t-shirts. And I ended up getting everyone fired up very unintentionally. Honest. Even though being a car guy for so many years, I should have known better. I ran the classic car show at an NADA college for god sakes.

I didn't expect all this attention and am humbled by the kind words and you folks that spoke out for me. This motor was to be a stop gap measure. I have the ability to change the mounts on the CA Chassisworks for an LS3 setup. The future is planned.

But honestly, it will probably be in there for a while. The costs of a project like this are severe and if I do any work on the car it will be new paint in a couple years after a break. Chill the wife out for a while. Buy some Coach purses, maybe a bracelet.

New paint will come before new motor. But trust me. I see the numbers you guys are getting with the LS7. I am dreaming and drooling!

Now I am already dreading that this will be hard to sell and will have to hang on to it when I pull it out since now I have more than a little coin in the Tru-trak system. I am sure Craigslist will make everything just fine.

Oh, well. I am still having a lot of fun and meeting some really good people along the way. No regrets! I just can't wait until it is done. 400HP is twice what I had in the car. That means I won't be satisfied until I hit at least 600HP on the next step.

I am waiting on new pics with more stuff installed. Next week they are thrashing on just my car to get it running. They finished a couple other projects that they have been working on well before this one. This was kind of a filler for them.

Have a great day!


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

[dlrepmn]

Here are some more pics from this morning.

The new wheel lip moldings are installed. Tom, the old ones are in the back of the wife's truck and I will send them out this week. I need to find a bigger box and some bubble wrap. We have ordered two of the rectangular mirrors instead of the round ones. Much more modern.

I dropped the hood off this morning even though it was -26 below zero. That is not wind chill folks that is actual temperature. I wasn't wearing gloves and my shop is not heated. Cold, cold, cold hood!

They needed to test fit the hood to tighten up the bolts on the fenders and the newly rechromed front bumper. They will touch up the spot from when I got really mad and slammed the hood when the starter on the 4.1 overheated again and wouldn't start. No more tow trucks! Again, it seemed much worse in my mind. Not that bad when you look at it two years later.

Tru-Trac is installed and it looks so good I ordered the Billet Specialties ball milled valve covers, triangular air cleaner, and matching breathers. Even though the Edelbrock valve covers are new they are from 2003 and looking dated. More stuff for Craigslist!

The radiator is in, but the fan shroud with dual fans was about an inch too big. Had to send it back for another.

The infamous QA1 coilovers are in and installed. They are going to start plumbing the brakes. The emergency brake cable is in.

The fuel tank is in and plumbed. I am going to polish the rest of the chrome on the car as good as possible considering it is still on the car.

We started talking about electrical. A complete new harness is going in. Why stop now? No shortcuts on electrical. The classic instruments gauge set is going to be ordered soon. Time to think stereo. Decided to leather the trunk with panels and carpet on the floor.

I picked out some tailights. Digi-tails. Check out the video. You may have to select your car, but you can see it from the rear real well.

http://www.spaghettiengineering.com/comersus/store/videos.asp

I am torn on headlights. Which ones? I know they will be halogens to replace my 4 different kinds of headlights. The grills were in much better shape than I remember and we can make them work for sure.

Which lights do you prefer?

http://www.mustangmonthly.com/howto/mump_0711_headlamp_conversion_classic_mustang/photo_02.html

http://www.karmustang.com/halogen_headlight_kit.php

Tri-bars or Classic yet functional. Yes, Mustang parts on the Firebird. Again, I have sinned against you Oh lord!. Hey they will work great and will look good. I am torn on the logos on the Reen Machine ones. I am sure they offer them plain without the Delta logos.

You have to think outside the box right?

Have a great day!

Scott in Minnesota

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[Steve Firebird]

Looking Good!

[dlrepmn]

Tom the wheel lip moldings are on the way.

PM'd you tracking number.

[Donovan]

Good stuff... Any luck with the horn button? That's an excellent accent.

[Tom Welch]

Thanks, Scott. I am waiting anxiously, Tom.

[dlrepmn]

I am glad you mentioned it!

I was ready to get this one

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/1967-75-Pontiac-Firebird-Trans-am-Formula-horn-button_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQ_trksidZp3286Q2em20Q2el11 16QQitemZ370089332198QQptZMotorsQ5fCarQ5fTruckQ5fP artsQ5fAccessories#ht_581wt_1442

But it just seemed silly to pay $60.00 (is that the real price?) for this horn button, but I just checked and found a used button from a 69 on e-bay for $7.00. It came with a 400 emblem too.

This one wasn't in as good of shape, but I can find out if I can take it apart and have my buddy machine an aluminum Grant horn button to try and duplicate the "Lady Bird" horn button. It is a Grant 1020 wheel and both should be ordered today. Worst case I could use the aluminum.

http://store.summitracing.com/egnsearch.asp?N=400103+300670+115&autoview=sku

I wish Year One would just sell me one, but it obviously involved some custom work. If it works I will break down and spend the $60.00 on the one in better shape. Who knows, this one may be perfect. If not, I spent more on car magazines today than I am spending on this button. No harm, No foul.

Thanks for the mention Donovan! I would not have checked E-Bay again without it.

I have changed the column to polished instead of black. That was the only billet in the car.

Ordered the Classic Instruments gauge cluster. Black with white needles.

Found someone to do the upholstery work on the seats, headliner, and ordered the Alpine head unit.

I am also going to order the Modo Innovations aluminum cover kit. That's it though. The rest will be stock interior. Not counting the seats of course.

Having a hell of a time getting the Falken tires. I found them in PA (Vulkan Tire Sales) and Rich should be ordering them today as well. 315-30-18 must not be a popular size. His tire distributor keeps having the date pushed back 4-6 weeks every time he checks his vendor.

Have a great day!

[dlrepmn]

:kewlpics:

New pictures hit the Hot Rod Factory Website. Sorry, all I have is the link and no pictures of my own. I am heading to Florida for a couple weeks, so I will post new ones on the thread when I get back.

http://hotrodfactory.net/groups/list_images.php?aid=58

The Wilwood brake master cylinder is in and plumbed, the brake lines are plumbed, the fuel lines and tank are installed, the dynamat has been ordered. We have ordered interior parts (sailpan, black console insert kit, center stack insert with A/C control),

Wiring harness, carpet, headliner, sail panels, package tray, visors, battery tray, mirrors, wiper motor kit all ordered. New gauge cluster has been ordered. Power window kits. Steering wheel ordered.

I decided to change from the burlwood console and center stack to black ones to keep from conflicting with the gray seat inserts.

Checks have been mailed with reckless abandon. Wife is clueless (Dear God in heaven if you want me to survive, let's keep it this way.)

The Coach purse shipped today.

Now to work on the stereo components.

Oh, I am having a hell of a time finding Falken RT615 315-30-18's. Anybody got any ideas? They keep pushing the date back 4-6 weeks. I am going to have the Intro Wheels and no rear tires.

Excitement installed and ready!

Have a great day!

[dlrepmn]

Thanks for double checking my order Dustin!

I think they turned out wonderful. Killer actually!

Oh, I might have changed a couple things on the motor.

What do you think?

Got a little carried away, but in a good way. I know shiny is show-touring, but I just have too much brightwork on this car not to go this route. We put some silver on the hood latch, hood hinges, just to mix it up a bit.

Oh, we finally got the Falkens obviously.

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

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

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

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/02/IMG_1561-1.jpg

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

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

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

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

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

You can just barely see the MSD6AL peeking out. I don't know why you would put it anywhere else. You will never see it. Yes, I know the reservoir is under the fender brace, but really how often to you have to get to it?

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

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

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

Two mirrors now, both sides should be better than one. Rectangular should be better. Like the looks better.

New ones on the HRF site too!

http://hotrodfactory.net/groups/list_images.php?aid=58

It still says it's a 6. Stealth perhaps? Maybe?

Have a great day!

[ed1le]

Wow, looks great!

[dlrepmn]

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

Throttle linkage a go

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/02/IMG_1625-1.jpg

Plumbing done

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

Dynamat done except for the doors

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

Vintage air in and plumbed

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

Headliner and sail panels going in. The 2000 front seat brackets bolt right in! Making a bracket for the rears. Dropped off the rear seat for fabrication around the mini-tubs.

Stereo order going in tomorrow. The trunk is going to have black/dark graphite leather to match the seats.

Flowmasters are on order.

:seizure:

[Hammered]

Nice wheels...

[dlrepmn]

Thanks!

Intro Vistas that are fully polished. I looked and looked and settled on these since they have a remote similarity to RallyII's.

Dustin from Intro Wheels is on this site and he even double checked my order that came from the builder to make sure they were exactly what I wanted.

He was very helpful with sizes and prices and I highly recommend them. There are other wheel manufacturer's on this site that are great too! Big names, beautiful products. Awesome!