Project Never Enough

[camaro2nv]

Its been a long time dream to mod a 1st gen Camaro. Ive built many cars and bikes but it was never planed it just happened. This project was bought with it in my head that modding was comin. You guys will have to bare with me on this project. Its going to be a long project but worth it in the end. I hope to sell my Boat to fund whats coming. Ill be doing all the work myself including paint. Heres some pics of what Im workin with.
Heres the car I bought it
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
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https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/05/DSC_0250-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/05/DSC_0254-1.jpg

[camaro2nv]

Heres a few more
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/05/DSC_0256-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/05/DSC_0275-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/05/DSC_0278-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/05/DSC_0279-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/05/DSC_0280-1.jpg

[camaro2nv]

Getting some of paint off and getting ready to fill the firewall.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/05/DSC_0286-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/DSC_0288-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/DSC_0289-1.jpg

[camaro2nv]

Ls2 with Ls3 heads, Also removed the drip rails.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/05/DSC_0297-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/05/DSC_0314sesized-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/05/DSC_0313resized-1.jpg

[camaro2nv]

Got the metal cut out and fitted. Also shaved the trunk lock and pass side door.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/05/DSC_0325resized-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/05/DSC_0336-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/05/DSC_03821-1.jpg

[camaro2nv]

Woo Hoo wheels are in! Forgiato three piece. Blacked out inners with a black lip. Brushed and flat black centers,
20x12
19x10
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https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/02/wheels6-2.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/02/wheels7-1.jpg

[camaro2nv]

Heres some door vents we made for the car
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/02/DSC_0403-1.jpg

[camaro2nv]

Ordering the Morrison rear clip tomorrow. Heres a pic of it from Morrisons site.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[camaro2nv]

I cut the lip off the wheel wells today. I left 1/4 inch of lip. Im going to weld in a piece of round bar to finish it up.
I placed the rear wheels under the car so I could get a measurement for my rear end. Its 54 1/2 to the center of each pad. Tomorrow I call and order my Morrison rear end! Woo hoo
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/05/DSC_00621-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/05/DSC_0064-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/05/DSC_00661-1.jpg

[LONE*STAR]

Great start, good mods... this thing is going to be sick

[1971CHEVELLE]

Awesome project keep us posted

[birdsandbowties]

very cool !!!

[parsonsj]

Looks great!

A tip on the round bar for your fender lip: use 1/4" stainless steel tube. It is easier to form, resists rust, and welds in easy.

jp

[hechtrod]

Hey, that's lookin' sweet. The rear looks pretty "flush". Oops, I used the "F" word in here. ha ha Keep the pics comin'.

20x12 rear wheels?! Yeeeeeeees! What size tire might I ask?
Thanks,
Hecht

[CamaroJesse]

Dude that things gonna be awesome!

[camaro2nv]

Thanks guys! Thanks Frank also! Just placed my order for the rear end! Woo Hoo
Tire sizes are
345/25/20
275/30/19

[Krazed]

Flush is ok. It's the H + F words combined that we disagree on!

Car is looking great! Can't wait to see more of it. and if I had to guess, I'd venture 335/25 tires but im just pulling those numbers out of my rear.

Edit: Damn I took too long! Guess they're 345's haha

[camaro2nv]

Well got the call today. The shipping company called and said my "car frame" was ready for pickup. I ran down to the yard and they loaded it up. This baby is nice! Morrison did a heck of a job! A second shipment should follow soon. It will have the axles and gears.

[Motown 454]

Very nice. Thats some stout construction there.

[HILLBILLY68]

Nice, looks like it's going to be a dream car!

[camaro2nv]

Thanks guys! I got started tonight. I started drilling out the spot welds on the rear frame rails. I got 95% of them drilled out. Man what a pain in the arse! I think the spot weld guy at the factory went nuts on my car,lol. I should have the Morrison in by next week. I hope! Frank, wheres those gears and axles,lol

[Smitty_67]

Impressive work. I was going to roll the lip on my car but you've got me curious about your method. Do you have any images of the work you did on the wheel well ? I'm curious on how to tie in the round bar. I would also like to see what you did to the A Pillar since you removed the drip rail. Thanks in advance.

[slownova73]

wow good job on the firewall smoothing, gonna be a badass ride when your done

[1968CamaroSS_Sam]

Great work. It is looking really nice. Could you possibly please post up more pics of the removed drip rails. I am still on the fence on doing mine or not. I am interested in the A pillar also. Great work so far.

[camaro2nv]

Impressive work. I was going to roll the lip on my car but you've got me curious about your method. Do you have any images of the work you did on the wheel well ? I'm curious on how to tie in the round bar. I would also like to see what you did to the A Pillar since you removed the drip rail. Thanks in advance.

Im not there yet. I just cut them off for now. I just figure it will be a lot easier while the car is on the rotisserie.

Ok I got the rear frame rails out. They didnt go without a fight! I did notice a few rusted out holes in the rear floor pan. I think Ill just replace it before I put the Morrison in.
Heres a side by side shot
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/DSC_0183-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/DSC_0182-1.jpg

[camaro2nv]

wow good job on the firewall smoothing, gonna be a badass ride when your done
Heres a shot of the tunnel. Ill finish it when my T56 Magnum comes in. I ordered it today.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/DSC_0162-1.jpg

[dslhtrdr]

Nice progress so far! Are you keeping the stock subframe?

[camaro2nv]

Nice progress so far! Are you keeping the stock subframe?
Im looking at the speedtech. I was going to go custom but I really want to get this thing done one of these days,lol.

[Motown 454]

Nice progress what kind of frame connectors are you using?

[camaro2nv]

Ive been looking at the new hotchkis. They look pretty low pro and will save some time cutting the floor.

[camaro2nv]

BIG thanks to Frank! He did a lot of ground work for me today. He also gave me a heck of a deal on my order today.
Ordered this stuff today.
Wilwood 14 inch front and rear brakes in blue with reverse masters
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
Bad Boy radiator with built in condenser
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
Billet Specialties in black with PS/AC for the LS2
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/135BLK13220_2-1.jpg
Ididit column
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/4461232D_L-1.jpg

AND
Ordered the T56 Magnum kit from Keisler
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/05/6769CamaroFirebirdT56MAGNUM_A-1.jpg

[67 ls1 vert]

Very cool car you have there. It should killer looking when you get it finished. I like the pieces you picked out so far.

What color are you painting it?

I just got my trans set up and it looks like a nice piece.

Be prepared for a little wait for it. It took me about three weeks for mine.




Ordered the T56 Magnum kit from Keisler
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/05/6769CamaroFirebirdT56MAGNUM_A-1.jpg

[camaro2nv]

Very cool car you have there. It should killer looking when you get it finished. I like the pieces you picked out so far.

What color are you painting it?

I just got my trans set up and it looks like a nice piece.

Be prepared for a little wait for it. It took me about three weeks for mine.
Thanks! I dunno about the color yet. I wanted Orange when the project started. But Im a BIG blue fan. Ive painted a lot of stuff blue,lol. I think with all the black and CF thats going to be on the car the blue would be best. I figure Ill put it off as long as I can.
As for the trans I was told by the end of the week. But if its longer its not a big deal. I have enough on the plate now to last a while,lol

[camaro2nv]

Sunday afternoon, time to put some work in. Boy this Morrison rear clip fits like a glove. It fit so tight I dont know how measurements could be off. I still have to weld it in but I got it in place for now.
Raise the rear first to get it in place.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/DSC_0186-1.jpg
Little bit from the front and rear jacks now
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/DSC_0187-1.jpg
Added a ratchet strap to help with the one man show,lol
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/DSC_0189-1.jpg
3.2.1....
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/DSC_0191-1.jpg
CONTACT!
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https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/DSC_0197-1.jpg
These are the only two holes you need to drill on each side. That way you can get to the nut
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/DSC_0202-1.jpg
Thats it for now. Later on when it cools off in the garage Ill tack it in pace and put the rear axle in place. 105 outside is just too hot, I bet the garage is 120.

[dslhtrdr]

Holy crap man, you don't f around! I like it a lot. The morrison clip looks awesome. It looks like you used the dse mini tubs. How well does the frame fit between the new tubs? Do you have to weld the morrison frame to the body? I only ask because I'm not familiar wit it.

[camaro2nv]

I was told Morrison made the clip to fit the tubs. Im not there yet so I cant tell ya. I should be soon though so watch for updates.
Ok so got the rear end mounted. Man she looks good! Cant wait to get the tru track in!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/DSC_0206-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/DSC_0207-1.jpg
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https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/DSC_0214-1.jpg

[camaro2nv]

Spectra fuel tank just came in! What a deal, 480.00 with the pump!
Man I love Craigslist, I found a Speedtech Sub frame. After spending 22k in parts this month it wasnt in my budget right now. But a deal is a deal and I need all the help I can get. Time to dip into the savings. I put a deposit on it and this weekend Ill make the four hour trip.
Looks like Ill have a roller soon!!!!!

[Just_Robert]

Wooow! Nice work sir!

[camaro2nv]

Got a call today from Fedex. Looks like the Magnum Trans will be here Monday:yes: Now I can get that LS2 off the create stand and get them paired up.
After getting the rear clip tacked in I put the DSE tubs in there locations. I didnt care for the way they hide the Morrison frame rail. I want them to butt up to the rail and not overlap it. Im also running 345mm rear tires. I need all the room I can get. So I pulled out the poster board and started cutting it up. Heres what I came out with. This part has been fun for me because Ive never done fab work like this. Its givin me some time behind the welder. Its not welded in yet, I wanted some feedback first. Thoughts??
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/DSC_0218-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/DSC_0217-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/DSC_0220-1.jpg
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https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/DSC_0225-1.jpg
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https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/DSC_0235-1.jpg

[ProdigyCustoms]

Your doing some amazing work! The AME stuff looks fantastic.

[wellis77]

Good work, that's look real nice.

[dslhtrdr]

I agree, you're doing a pretty good job. I must admit, I'm a little envious of your progress!

22k in parts! :jawdrop: That's a big chunk of change to drop, but you spent it well in my opinion. Even though I just replaced the stock rail in my car, I'm considering chopping them all out and replacing them with the same morrison frame that you have. It looks damn good, and much stronger, which is something that I'm really going to need with the amount of torque my dmax will be putting to the ground. Did it come with the 9" in the pics? And how is it mounted to the body?

[camaro2nv]

Magnum trans came today:thumbsup: But I guess the cluth and flywheel is on BO. Story of my life. I also got the other tub done. I want to weld em in sooo bad but I know its best to wait for my brakes and axles so I can get the wheels under the car first to make sure everything is a ok.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/DSC_0306-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/07/DSC_03072-1.jpg

[camaro2nv]

I decided to change the color,again lol. For now this is it. With all the CF bits it should look really nice.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[camaro2nv]

Parts update, I got the ATS Spindles and oil pan today. The Ididit is coming tomorrow along with the axles and center section. I also placed a order for the AutoKraft engine mounts for the LS2. Parts are coming in slower them a turtle! I made a change on the brakes to the greatest and latest,lol.
I started to put the speedtech together when I noticed that the last owner didnt include any nuts or bolts. So tomorrow Ill go pick some up. Ill have a updated picture tomorrow.

['70rs]

Coming along really well. I'm curious about the brake upgrade though, any hints?

[camaro2nv]

The brakes are Wilwoods but I wanted em BIG! Im big on wheels and brakes. With five spoke wheels you need em big!
I had to run to the hardware store today three times to get missing bolts that the last owner didnt include.
I took off a hour early to get the Subframe together. Turns out Im missing a couple key bolts for the sway bar. But all in all its very close.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/08/DSC_0359-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/08/DSC_0360-1.jpg

[camaro2nv]

Got home to find my Detroit tru trac came today along with the axles. Just got finished putting it in. Now Im just waiting for my brakes so I can put the wheels on this bad boy!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/08/DSC_0362-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/08/DSC_0363-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/08/DSC_0364-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/08/DSC_0366-2.jpg

[tones2SS]

Very cool. Looks like you're coming down the home stretch.
Keep us posted.

[dslhtrdr]

Keep up the good work! Your progress on the car makes me feel like a lazy a** when it comes to mine. I like the direction of it a lot. The more pics the better.

[camaro2nv]

Well back in the garage! We had a baby two weeks ago so the project is moving super slow now. With that said the baby has been napping so I sneak away to do some work.
Im still waiting for all my other parts to roll in. Willwood sent me the rears but Im still waiting on the fronts. These are the W4A, from what Frank told me these are the first to go on a rear or a car. They are BIG! The rotors are 14in and calipers are 11in long. I picked black because I want them to match the car color. So they will be painted to match. The fronts are W6A with a 14.25 rotor. Ill post them once I get em.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/09/DSC_0591-1.jpg
I have to do more work to get the rear wheels on. Seems the bore size is off by a hair! Its very close, I might just do some sanding to get them to go on.

[camaro2nv]

Ok Ok so I could wait, I had to put a wheel on. I did a little sanding, not much and it slipped on. My axle if off but I wanted to get a wheel on,lol
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/09/DSC_0597-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/09/DSC_0602-1.jpg

[wellis77]

Looks good. What are the specs on your rim/tire?

[1968CamaroSS_Sam]

The car is coming along great.

[badbu68]

Love the project, its looking nicer with every post!

[camaro2nv]

Looks good. What are the specs on your rim/tire?
Thanks!
20x12
19x10
345/25/20
275/30/19

[Motown 454]

The car looks great , nice wheels. Those are some big brakes! Nice work on a sweet project.

[19sixtynine]

Amazing work, I CAN NOT wait to see this car done!...although I really enjoy the "watching it get done" part too....

[colt zantop]

wow! awesome project..nice work!

[Green70]

you sir are a madman! keep updating cuz this thing is sweeet!

[camaro2nv]

Little bit of a parts update. So I called Blake from Speedtech about some bolts for the front clip. That let to ordering Speedtech headers made by Stainless works. I also ordered the steering shaft kit and ball joint covers.
Next is the Auto Rad Radiator slash core support. Man what a work of art! This thing is bad arse!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/09/DSC_0633-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/09/DSC_0649-1.jpg
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[Motown 454]

Wow those are some sweet looking parts there.

[2nd Gen.Camaro_lover]

freaking wow......:yum:

[dslhtrdr]

Envious is a word that comes to mind... :drool: :twothumbs

[camaro2nv]

Well my front brakes came in today:thumbsup: Still waiting for the master, lines ect. But atleast Im able to get the front wheels on. Man I nailed fitment on this package! These are the W6 Wilwoods, they are BIG! But who would have know they would fill out the 19's on the front so well. Look how close the Caliper is to the rim! JUST PERFECT! I also got the motor/trans pretty much in. Tomorrow Ill go over a couple things and call it good enough for mock up.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/DSC_0676-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/DSC_06971-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/DSC_0698-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/DSC_0689-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/DSC_0678-1.jpg

[mc84_zz4]

Wow, that is looking amazing.
I am diggin' the 3-D effect the wheels, brakes have.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/DSC_0698-1.jpg
That is badazz.

[1968CamaroSS_Sam]

Wow, cool looking wheels.

[camaro2nv]

After 3 months of waiting my Billet Specialties tru track came in. After doing the install Im very happy with the kit, just awesome! Kt also comes with a edelbrock water pump. I also got the motor mounted and headers bolted on.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/DSC_0701-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/DSC_0703-1.jpg
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https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/DSC_0712-1.jpg

[Motown 454]

Looking good. That Tru trac looks sweet.

[dslhtrdr]

Looks very nice! Excellent progress :twothumbs

[KnightMare]

Those wheels are insane, can't wait to see how the car is going to look on all 4's and with the fenders on

[RodDawg]

Those wheels are insane, can't wait to see how the car is going to look on all 4's and with the fenders on

Same here. Looks great!!

[camaro2nv]

The last time my car rolled into my garage was a year ago. Its SO nice to see it on all four wheels again. I know I still have a LONG way to go but I feel like Ive accomplished something with this bad boy. :)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/DSC_0730-1.jpg

[badbu68]

Wow, that pic is badass!

[wellis77]

Yeah that is definitely looking good. Great job so far.

[trueimport]

MAN how much did you sell you boat for?!?!?!?!

The car looks great, your work is amazing and I cant wait to see more of this build.
Keep it up :)

[Motown 454]

That must be a sweet feeling. Very nice.

[KnightMare]

That car looks mean with that stance

[LeighP]

Wow, looks great. I really like your choice of wheel....looks awesome with those HUGE brakes.

[camaro2nv]

Well Ive had many changes happen in my life. Looks like I might be selling the project. If anyone is looking for a builder with many nice parts please pass the word along.
Heres a list of parts and what they cost.
WHEELS $6,000.00
MOTOR/W ECU $6,000.00
SUBFRAME W/AIR RIDE $7,000.00
REAR SUBFRAME COMPLETE $7,000.00
BRAKES $5,500.00
TRANS $5,000.00
RS GRILL KIT $500.00
CORE SUPPORT $1,500.00
OIL PAN $550.00
MOTOR MOUNTS $200.00
PULLEY KIT $2,600.00
VINTAGE AIR $1,000.00
ATS SPINDLES $1,000.00
STAINLESS WORKS HEADERS $1,000.00
BODY MOUNTS $100.00
IDIDIT STEERING SHAFT $350.00
ODDS AND ENDS $1,000.00
HOOD HINDGES $750.00
MINI TUBS $400.00
GAS TANK $500.00

$47,950.00
This is what I have into it without the cost of the car. Make me a good offer and its yours.

[whytry]

I was hoping to see this car on the road, especially since I'm local, just up in EDH... I hope all goes well with the sell!!

[baggins]

where in roseville are you located, that just like 5 miles from me?

[camaro2nv]

Citrus Heights/ Roseville Ca.

[baggins]

oh nice. what shop is your car at, i'd love to check it out before you sell it

[camaro2nv]

My Garage,lol

[dlouie87]

My Garage,lol

hahah.... I love it.

btw, do you reccomend any shops in sac area for parts/etc?

I went to chevy land to get some stuff last week (from chico) and they seem pretty cool.

-Dan

[camaro2nv]

Martin went home on Friday. We bought a ton of part this last week to finish the car. It will be shipped out in a couple weeks. Thanks again pro touring. Heres a pic I snapped.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/02/DSC_0145-1.jpg

[CruizinKev]

saweet!! :drool: