66 Chevelle PT build (ours)

[tommycomfort]

Obviously project names aren't my strong suit, but we (wife, kids and I) have been working on this since 2002 and thought it was time to start a project build here. I've had a post going on chevelles.com for a few years, but since the current focus is strongly pro-touring here it is.
So, the story goes like this... In the mid 80's while my wife and I were dating I had a 66 Malibu and then a 67 Chevelle SS that had become a small block car. Good times of wrenching, cruising and informal racing were remembered by both of us. I sold the 67 in 1987 but swore I wasn't done with muscle cars. Fast forward 15 years and I was out in Sacramento, CA doing some National Guard stuff and the wife came out for Memorial day weekend and we decided that if we were going to get back into the hobby there was not better place to buy a project Chevelle. We searched all the local classifieds and found this one in Yuba City, CA. Even though I loved going fast in a straight line back in the 80’s, I always loved a car that handled well. So, when we bought this one I was far removed from the hobby, but knew I wanted some creature comforts and a car that handled as good or better than most. In the past 7+ years we have taken many directions with the project from show car to mild cruiser, but now that we’re down to the wire it is going to be a used as a auto-x / track car that can be driven to events. With more money in paint and body than any regular guy should have to spend I will most likely follow a gravel truck right off the bat to get the chips out of the way... The current battle cry is for completion by May 1st 2010.

Here’s what we have:

66 two door hardtop that was completely solid and didn’t need any new panels
454 that is nothing to exciting (will be a LS based engine eventually!)
Tremec T-56
12 bolt, eaton posi, moser axles 4.56:1 gears for now
Hotchkis swaybars
DSE front and rear coilovers
SPC upper A-arms
Global West lower A-arms
ATS/AFX spindles
Baer brakes C-5 based up front and C-4 rear
Currie lower control arms
Edelbrock upper adjustable control arms
Vintage Air front runner serpentine setup
Vintage Air Gen IV unit
Procar Scat bucket seats
Lots of sound deadening
Smoke tinted windows

There are a lot of things that I have changed during the build and a lot more I would have done differently, but at this point it just has to get done before “improving” anything else.

[1badchevelle]

Nice build. Loving it. What color is that?

[tommycomfort]

Nice build. Loving it. What color is that?

Thanks,

It's 2004 Audi silver. Probably has a name, but I long since forgot it...

[CruizinKev]

looking good :twothumbs

[Yelcamino]

Hey Tom! The Chevelle looks great! I can't wait to see it in person at RTTH VI!

Now that I've tossed that challenge on the table, you have to have it done in time! :poke:

[Tucks69]

Nice Project Tom! I met you at RTTHV, you did well in the station wagon. Can,t wait to see the Chevelle.

[tommycomfort]

Hey Tom! The Chevelle looks great! I can't wait to see it in person at RTTH VI!

Now that I've tossed that challenge on the table, you have to have it done in time! :poke:

I accept that challenge! Pizza and beer (within reason) on all build nights at the shop! Seriously though, I would really like to wring it out at the Motorstate Challenge on Fathers day and of course RTTH unless it is completely broken by then...

[tommycomfort]

Nice Project Tom! I met you at RTTHV, you did well in the station wagon. Can,t wait to see the Chevelle.

Thanks! It has a few more bells and whistles on the chassis than the wagon, but also weighs more. We'll just have to hope for the best.
Loved the Camaro also at RTTH!

[tommycomfort]

Learning how to attach full size pictures. ATS/AFX spindles installed.

[Young Gun]

awesome! keep it up!

[Hotchkis]

Very cool, we're happy to have our parts included!

[454bug]

Great project Tom!

It looks like you're well on your way of being ready for next summer... :drive:


It's amazing how these projects can take so many forks in the road along the way... It's like trying to hit a moving target... :machine:

[tommycomfort]

Great project Tom!

It looks like you're well on your way of being ready for next summer... :drive:


It's amazing how these projects can take so many forks in the road along the way... It's like trying to hit a moving target... :machine:

You sure do have that right. I have bought, installed then sold at a loss more parts than most average people ever buy for their project. Guess that's what makes us what we are....
Tom

[Twentyover]

You sure do have that right. I have bought, installed then sold at a loss more parts than most average people ever buy for their project. Guess that's what makes us what we are....
Tom


Pretty much broke but with bitchin' rides?

[RJ66]

Great looking project can't wait to see it run at Motor State Challenge.:cool:



Randy(D&Z Customs LLC.)
[email protected]
1-262-347-9741

[tommycomfort]

We've been making some decent progress on the Chevelle. Right now we're about half way throught the wiring, but have taken a short break while it is at the glass shop getting the front and rear glass installed.

I did work out a deal with Sean (SR73bu) to sell him our Procar seats. When it was all said and done, he sent payment with this awesome rendering of our project. He did it all from the pictures posted on here and team chevelle. Amazing work and great guy!

[Yelcamino]

Hey Tom, the car is looking good, nice rendering too!

How long before the first shake down drive?

[tommycomfort]

Still shooting for the 1st of May, but it'll be tight. I will be out of town for a little over a week doing National Guard stuff in April. Deb and the kids can continue to work on some things, but I'm a little of a control freak so not the "important" things. Maybe I'll drop it off for the stainless exhaust while I'm gone...

:usa:

[Tucks69]

Can,t wait to see the Chevelle in person Tom. You coming to RTTH?

[tommycomfort]

Heck yeah we'll be at RTTH's. Hopefully we can have the wagon and the 66 there. You'll be there right?

[Tucks69]

Heck yeah we'll be at RTTH's. Hopefully we can have the wagon and the 66 there. You'll be there right?
Oh yeah can't miss it!! I will bring the 68 back as the 69 has a long way to go. Overtime at work has been cutting into my car building time, but at least I am still have a job!

[tommycomfort]

Just got it back from the glass shop last Sunday. It was only going to be there a few days to install the front and rear glass that I already had, but the rear opening was a little odd, so they had to make a new piece of glass and have it sent away to be tempered. So, almost a month later it is back in my possession... Time to really get down to business.

[Yelcamino]

It's lookin' good Tom! :twothumbs

Motor State Challenge and RTTH are just around the corner! :6gears:

[CruizinKev]

looks great! :twothumbs

[tommycomfort]

Ok, there's been a lot going on with the 66 lately!

First, I was not at all happy with the way my modified original crossmember was working out, so I ordered the summit racing universal kit and welded/fabbed up something better. I ended up having to have a guy down the road finish welding it since some of it is 1/2" steel and my 110 mig just wouldn't cut it. I just shot a quick coat of semi-gloss paint on it to get it back together and will take it off and have it powder-coated next winter.

Next project was exhaust. I really debated many options from a really nice stainless kit, to oval aluminized stuff, but ended up ordering the flowmaster 64-72 2.5" aluminized kit without mufflers. I did that so I could get a quieter muffler that might be more tolerable on long road trips. That ended up being Flowmaster Delta 50's. Believe me, it still screams when I get into it! I didn't want to clamp the kit together, but I also wanted to be able to take it apart (mostly to remove my crossmember for powder-coating). So, I fabbed up these flanges to go between the mufflers and tailpipes. They don't look like much, but I have a few hours of labor in building them and they seem to work well so far. The only thing we couldn't do was bend pipe to connect our shorty headers to the rest of the exhaust system. Took it to the local muffler shop and they were thrilled to work on it. So, once it came off the lift, I was able to start it and take it for it's first drive (only around the parking lot) since we bought it in 2002!!!

Somewhere along the line while all this was being done, we finished up the wiring and thankfully my wife is pretty good at toubleshooting and sorted out the few mistakes we (I) made and now everything seems to work correctly.

So, now it has been driven a few times, aligned, all the fluids changed and is ready to be really driven. I have a buddy coming over this week to see if we can fine tune the motor, but it seems to be running very well (thank goodness for my dumb luck!).

The interior still needs finishing, but right now it has the front seats installed and the rest will come soon. Next weekend we're taking it to the Midwest Muscle Car Challenge (www.midwestmusclecarchallenge.com (http://www.midwestmusclecarchallenge.com/)) and will thrash it on the road course, auto-cross and speed/stop challenge along with the 99 mile cruise. Hopefully I don't grenade it before CB10 and a few other events, but if I do, it will just be another project with a deadline...

More to follow soon!

[Yelcamino]

Hey Tom, it looks like everything is coming together nicely! I can't wait to see this thing in person!

[Mike Holleman]

Ok, there's been a lot going on with the 66 lately!

First, I was not at all happy with the way my modified original crossmember was working out, so I ordered the summit racing universal kit and welded/fabbed up something better. I ended up having to have a guy down the road finish welding it since some of it is 1/2" steel and my 110 mig just wouldn't cut it. I just shot a quick coat of semi-gloss paint on it to get it back together and will take it off and have it powder-coated next winter.

Next project was exhaust. I really debated many options from a really nice stainless kit, to oval aluminized stuff, but ended up ordering the flowmaster 64-72 2.5" aluminized kit without mufflers. I did that so I could get a quieter muffler that might be more tolerable on long road trips. That ended up being Flowmaster Delta 50's. Believe me, it still screams when I get into it! I didn't want to clamp the kit together, but I also wanted to be able to take it apart (mostly to remove my crossmember for powder-coating). So, I fabbed up these flanges to go between the mufflers and tailpipes. They don't look like much, but I have a few hours of labor in building them and they seem to work well so far. The only thing we couldn't do was bend pipe to connect our shorty headers to the rest of the exhaust system. Took it to the local muffler shop and they were thrilled to work on it. So, once it came off the lift, I was able to start it and take it for it's first drive (only around the parking lot) since we bought it in 2002!!!

Somewhere along the line while all this was being done, we finished up the wiring and thankfully my wife is pretty good at toubleshooting and sorted out the few mistakes we (I) made and now everything seems to work correctly.

So, now it has been driven a few times, aligned, all the fluids changed and is ready to be really driven. I have a buddy coming over this week to see if we can fine tune the motor, but it seems to be running very well (thank goodness for my dumb luck!).

The interior still needs finishing, but right now it has the front seats installed and the rest will come soon. Next weekend we're taking it to the Midwest Muscle Car Challenge (www.midwestmusclecarchallenge.com (http://www.midwestmusclecarchallenge.com/)) and will thrash it on the road course, auto-cross and speed/stop challenge along with the 99 mile cruise. Hopefully I don't grenade it before CB10 and a few other events, but if I do, it will just be another project with a deadline...

More to follow soon!
Looking real good Tommy. And a wife that can troubleshoot wiring! Debbie is a special Lady and you a lucky man. Look forward to seeing the car and you guys at Michigan. Mike

[tommycomfort]

Thanks Herb and Mike! I'm overall really happy with how it's coming out, but don't get your hopes up for seeing it in person. It's just a home built that tries to be a little show car, cruiser and racer (hopefully in opposite that order). It will never be great at any of them, but should be fun. We are over the top excited to run it this coming weekend at MMC and dial some things in.

Mike, you're right, Deb is a keeper, but I was thinking how lucky she was to have a car guy like me! :1st:

[1971CHEVELLE]

Wow awesome project :1st:

[BossaNova]

Congratulations! Get that sucker on the road.

Love the color and that back panel (among other things).

[sr73bu]

Looks Awesome Tom! Congrats!

[Mike Holleman]

Thanks Herb and Mike! I'm overall really happy with how it's coming out, but don't get your hopes up for seeing it in person. It's just a home built that tries to be a little show car, cruiser and racer (hopefully in opposite that order). It will never be great at any of them, but should be fun. We are over the top excited to run it this coming weekend at MMC and dial some things in.

Mike, you're right, Deb is a keeper, but I was thinking how lucky she was to have a car guy like me! :1st:
Tommy, I am way more impressed with a build like your's than all the highend mega buck builds on the planet. You guys are keeping it real. And you and the family will get way more enjoyment out of your build than any of the HMBB could possible give. The picture of the beginning of the Chevelle with your family says it all. Sam has grownup with this project. And the memorys past and future will prove to be priceless. Have fun.
Mike

[tommycomfort]

Well, the Muscle Car Challenge was an absolute blast!!! But, here's how the weekend went:
Much to my disgust our Zirgo electric cooling fan crapped out Friday night on our way from our garage/shop to our house in Mooresville. Sam and I hauled it out to Putnam park on the trailer and Deb scoured the Indy area for a reverse pitch mechanical fan. She did finally find one, but the longest spacer they had was 1.75" and we really needed an unsafe 3" to clear the accessories on the front runner system. So, I talked to a handful of people and they believed we'd stay cool on the road course so we tried it. They were right, 195* without a problem. The car handled great and was a blast to drive. I drove it in four of the six sessions. Two with instructors, one with Deb and one with Sam.
Sunday started with our group doing the speed/stop challenge first. Sam and I made two runs and developed a knock on the second pass. We really hoped it was something easy like a rocker arm nut working its way loose, but after getting some experts (much more so than me) to take a listen we determined it was much deeper. So the rest of the day we spent riding with a few different people on the auto-x.

So, about the motor... Deb and I worked Memorial day, but first thing Tuesday morning we started pulling the motor. By the end of the day it was out, but not disassembled. This morning we finished taking it apart down to the short block and it looks like the #2 rod bearing is suspect. Around noon we took it to our favorite machine shop and he agreed. He is going to take it down clean and hone the block, turn the crank and reassemble with new rings and bearings. We also talked about the pathetic tiny port oval port truck heads I have and he is going to put together a set of larger oval port heads for us using all new parts except my valve springs which he will reuse. All that said, he is going to try to have it done by Tuesday of next week. Bottom line, we are trying to get it done in order to take it to Chevellabration on 10 June. God help us! We'll have to trailer it some and won't be able to beat it up on the auto-x, but will also take the wagon to thrash.

I'll update as time allows...

[ProjectSideOiler]

Well, the Muscle Car Challenge was an absolute blast!!! But, here's how the weekend went:
Much to my disgust our Zirgo electric cooling fan crapped out Friday night on our way from our garage/shop to our house in Mooresville. Sam and I hauled it out to Putnam park on the trailer and Deb scoured the Indy area for a reverse pitch mechanical fan. She did finally find one, but the longest spacer they had was 1.75" and we really needed an unsafe 3" to clear the accessories on the front runner system. So, I talked to a handful of people and they believed we'd stay cool on the road course so we tried it. They were right, 195* without a problem. The car handled great and was a blast to drive. I drove it in four of the six sessions. Two with instructors, one with Deb and one with Sam.
Sunday started with our group doing the speed/stop challenge first. Sam and I made two runs and developed a knock on the second pass. We really hoped it was something easy like a rocker arm nut working its way loose, but after getting some experts (much more so than me) to take a listen we determined it was much deeper. So the rest of the day we spent riding with a few different people on the auto-x.

So, about the motor... Deb and I worked Memorial day, but first thing Tuesday morning we started pulling the motor. By the end of the day it was out, but not disassembled. This morning we finished taking it apart down to the short block and it looks like the #2 rod bearing is suspect. Around noon we took it to our favorite machine shop and he agreed. He is going to take it down clean and hone the block, turn the crank and reassemble with new rings and bearings. We also talked about the pathetic tiny port oval port truck heads I have and he is going to put together a set of larger oval port heads for us using all new parts except my valve springs which he will reuse. All that said, he is going to try to have it done by Tuesday of next week. Bottom line, we are trying to get it done in order to take it to Chevellabration on 10 June. God help us! We'll have to trailer it some and won't be able to beat it up on the auto-x, but will also take the wagon to thrash.

I'll update as time allows...

You did not mention but I would suggest at least adding new rod bolts and having the rods re-sized. If #2 has an issue and not fixed it will happen again.

[Bad94]

, but after getting some experts (much more so than me) to take a listen we determined it was much deeper.



Tom, i just want to say that you and your son have built one hell of a nice car. Im glad to see young kid out in the shop with there dad. Most kids these days want to stay inside and play that x box thing.


Sucks about the motor, but i have faith in you that you will have it done and out on the track at motorstate. (wish i could see it there)

[COPO-RAT]

Beautiful car! Love the build. I have a '67 that hopefully someday will be as nice as yours! Great stuff.

[Lance-W]

I have 3-4 sets of 781 heads if you want them. Just let me know !

[66SuperSport]

Tom

It was great meeting you and your family at the MMCC. I am totally impressed on how you have taken this all in stride and are thrashing on the Chevelle for the upcoming weekends.
The 781 heads that are being offered are the best oval ports Chevy made. If this is not what you are using, I would take Lance-W up on his offer. The781s are the ones Lingenfelter was using back in the 80s and made big power. He proved that this was the ticket on engines below 6,000 rpms. I had a set of these on my old '70 Chevelle. Nothing trick. Just a 468 with 9.5 comp. Ran 10.50s on the bottle and 11.80s on motor.
I hope all goes well and you and Sam get the car back together soon. We're looking forward to seeing you guys again in Michigan.

[hechtrod]

Very purdy Chevelle. I love the 65-66 years. Glad you're driving it hard too. I dig the color/wheel combo.

[tommycomfort]

Alright, my machinist was good to his word and we got the motor back on Tuesday around 2 PM. Deb, Sam and I worked on getting it back together and in the car until 5 AM Wednesday morning and Kaytlin and her boyfriend (car guy) also stayed until after midnight. Unfortunately Deb and I had to work on Wednesday. Luckily we're fire fighters and were able to nap between runs. So, Thursday morning we took the wagon to the alignment shop then got right on buttoning up the 66. I really wanted to be on the road by 2 PM but things never go as well as I hope. We did get the car running by 2 and were on our way to Chevellabration in Goodlettsville, TN by 4 PM. What better way to break in the new rings than drive the car 300+ miles? It ran great, but I have to say I have become hyper-aware of every noise.

Trying not to drag this out, but I changed the oil once I got here and we ran it last night a few times in the short auto-x. I'm having a hard time keeping it cool, so I took it easy. I have a few ideas on fixing my temperature problems so now I just need to thrash again this week before the Motor State Challenge.

On another note: We brought the 64 Chevelle wagon that some of you know down also, and Deb drove it pass after pass on the auto-x (maybe 20+ laps). She is HOOKED! I had to peel her out of the car just so I could enjoy it a couple of times. Good times!

Pictures to follow.

[73z-6sp]

Pictures to follow.


PLEASSEEE Please post pics!? I wanna see! I only wish my 66 looked like and handled like yours must!

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

[tommycomfort]

Here are a couple recent pictures of the 66 and I'm sneaking one of the wagon in.

[stealth71]

Car looked great this weekend. It was great to meet you and the family.

[tommycomfort]

Car looked great this weekend. It was great to meet you and the family.

Thanks Mike,
I hate that we're still working out the kinks and didn't get to really thrash it, but there is always next time. That is if it survives Motor State this weekend...
Hope to see you at RTTH!
Tom

[tommycomfort]

Well would you believe that we have been wrenching on the car for a solid week since coming back from Chevellabration and finally got the new radiator installed and few other things worked out. So, we get that all done and decide to drive it to my sisters house to celebrate my Mother's birthday. On the way back to the shop/garage, some idiot clips the rear taillight extension and quarter panel. Unreal!!! We're still in good shape to make it up to Motor State though. I can't believe our luck!
Pictures will follow this weekend...
:pat:

[tommycomfort]

Well, we'll see what the other guys insurance company says, but right now I think the estimate is around $3500. My guy believes he can save the quarter and will be able to match the paint. If anyone can do it would be his shop.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/07/DSC01757-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/07/DSC01756-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/07/DSC01753a-1.jpg

[Yelcamino]

That's a bummer Tom that you have to go through this after all that hard work you, Deb and the kids put into the Chevelle! You going to wait until after Run Through The Hills to leave it at the body shop?

[tommycomfort]

Well, I actually have a three week period that I will be away doing National Guard stuff then home for a week and gone again for two, so somehow during that it will be at the body shop and hopefully the interior shop for the back seat and headliner. All of that in a perfect world of course!

[Yelcamino]

Well, I actually have a three week period that I will be away doing National Guard stuff then home for a week and gone again for two, so somehow during that it will be at the body shop and hopefully the interior shop for the back seat and headliner. All of that in a perfect world of course!

Should be no problem Tom, since we all live in a perfect world! lol

Will you be at Run Through The Hills? I'm trying to talk Ted and his wife to fly out; if they do I'll be bringing the Chevelle and the Elky.

[Bad94]

Damn, that sucks.


If that came to us, i would fix that quater too. Pull alittle in the rear and tap the highs down at the wheels.


I say bring to rtth's like that too.

[Nick.V70]

Great looking car!! Sorry to see the rear damage.

[tommycomfort]

Should be no problem Tom, since we all live in a perfect world! lol

Will you be at Run Through The Hills? I'm trying to talk Ted and his wife to fly out; if they do I'll be bringing the Chevelle and the Elky.

We'll be there whether it is fixed or not.

[tommycomfort]

Damn, that sucks.


If that came to us, i would fix that quater too. Pull alittle in the rear and tap the highs down at the wheels.


I say bring to rtth's like that too.

I really hated the thought of having to cut a near perfect (formerly) quarter off, but was going to demand OEM or NOS. When he said he'd rather fix it I was relieved. Still a drag that a car with all it's original panels including floors has to pulled and popped and hammered, but that's just the way it goes.

He's also going to paint the wheel centers and possibly the center of the grill our gun metal trim color while he has it. See, take the good with the bad.
:)

[rockytopper]

Tom I didn't read what happened but if if makes you feel any better I backed out of my shop a week after getting my car home from the paint shop to work on the interior setting on the carpet looking over my right shoulder to make sure noting was behind me. I forgot to pull the door shut. In an instant I herd a click, pop,& a boom. The boom was the door bounching off the floor of my shop. I caught it in hand just in time to keep it from hitting the car. Mine is still at the shop as of yesterday, they were trying to get the repalcement door on with out having to remove the fender. SH I guess. Hope all works out for you.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/07/DSC08762-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/07/DSC08763-1.jpg

[tommycomfort]

Well, the Chevelle is home from it's short stay at the body shop. We're still waiting on the tail light trim to be chromed at Advance plating in Nashville, but we assembled it with some original pieces while we wait. I had the body shop paint the wheel centers and the center of the grille with the gun metal color we used on some other trim. I felt like the chrome plated trim and bright silver paint was just too much bright and it looks like the black vinyl top I had originally planned will never happen. Let me know what you think...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/DSC02066-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/DSC02080-1.jpg

[Yelcamino]

Let me know what you think...


I likey! :twothumbs

[Bad94]

WOW, much better.

Cant wait to see it again at RTTH's.

I call shot gun for a run or two.

[tommycomfort]

WOW, much better.

Cant wait to see it again at RTTH's.

I call shot gun for a run or two.

Absolutely! Wish you had been at Day at the strip, we drove the wheels off of it!

[tommycomfort]

Well, for the last six weeks or so I have been playing part time Army guy and haven't had much time for anything on our car. While I have been busy Deb had the paint and body repaired and then last week we ran it down to Darrin at Cutter's custom stitchin' for the headliner and back seat.

If all goes well we'll be picking it up on Wednesday then leaving for RTTH's on Thursday morning. Still a bit of wrenching that needs to go on back at our place before we drive it down to Pigeon Forge, but I am sure we can make it happen...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/09/headliner-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/09/backseat-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/09/backseat1-1.jpg

[sr73bu]

The car is looking awesome Tom! good luck at RTTH's... i'm going to try and make it next year!...seriously...

Unfortnately the procar seats are collecting dust in another project (first yours,now mine)...haha :cheers:

-Sean

[COPO-RAT]

......and then last week we ran it down to Darrin at Cutter's custom stitchin' for the headliner and back seat.

Beautiful car Tom, sorry to hear about the damage! Looks like it turned out good though. The wheels and grill look good also.
Just drove by Darrin's about 3 hours ago! Would LOVE to stop in there and see your car. I'll probably be out there a couple times before wednesday (we are building a house about 3 miles down the road).

[73z-6sp]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/09/backseat-1.jpg



I want to see that when finished! Looks great!

[craigs73]

i like the car looks great!! have a question tho where do you buy foam like that.(back seat)

[badbu68]

Love this 66, I'd love to see pix of your skid plate, thinking of something like that for my 68.

[tommycomfort]

The car is looking awesome Tom! good luck at RTTH's... i'm going to try and make it next year!...seriously...

Unfortnately the procar seats are collecting dust in another project (first yours,now mine)...haha :cheers:

-Sean

Sean, Deb and I understand more than most that nothing happens as fast as you want. (at least on projects) Well, deadlines come fast, but that's all!

Your car looks great though!

[tommycomfort]

Beautiful car Tom, sorry to hear about the damage! Looks like it turned out good though. The wheels and grill look good also.
Just drove by Darrin's about 3 hours ago! Would LOVE to stop in there and see your car. I'll probably be out there a couple times before wednesday (we are building a house about 3 miles down the road).

Wish you had stopped by and to take a look. We're picking it up today after fitting the back interior panels with Darren's help. I'm sure it will be back down there over the winter for some custom carpet. I'm sure you'll get a chance to see it down the road.

[Bad94]

Wish you had stopped by and to take a look. We're picking it up today after fitting the back interior panels with Darren's help. I'm sure it will be back down there over the winter for some custom carpet. I'm sure you'll get a chance to see it down the road.


Damn, i wish i had time to swing by today.

Good luck.

[tommycomfort]

Alright, finally had some time for the first installment of updates. On the way from Indy to Pigeon Forge, TN for Run Thru The Hills I hit a small bump on the highway and heard a horrible noise that I thought was coming from the right front suspension. Long story short, I was way off on the location and it turned out to be a rearend noise. Luckily Debbie and Sam were following with the truck and trailer and I was following Matt (bowtie67). So, loaded it on the trailer and hauled it the rest of the way down to Bill Howell's place. After it stopped pouring Deb, Sam and I backed the car to the edge of the trailer and removed the differential cover. Well, much to our surprise, a ring gear bolt fell out when we did. Then, upon inspecting it a little more we found another one lodged between the ring gear and posi carrier (apparently a noise that I heard during a SCCA auto-x a few weeks before). A little more digging and we found that the remaining ten bolts were all hand tight and one was already out about 3/16". So, after borrowing a couple bolts and sending Deb to the parts store we had it all cleaned up and tightened back up with lock-tite. Let me just say this, I paid a guy to rebuild the rearend in the wagon and 66 about six or seven years ago and apparently he wasn't the expert he claimed to be...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/10/201009190202-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/10/DSC02268-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/10/DSC02270-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/10/DSC02271-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/10/0917000808-1.jpg

[craigs73]

holy crap you got lucky. suprised it didnt tear up any teeth off the gear

[Yelcamino]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/10/201009190202-1.jpg



Tom, all I can say is you're a lucky man, and I'm not talking about the ring gear bolts, I'm talking about this picture right here. Deb and Sam under the car at night helping you fix it! :twothumbs

I'm really glad we got to hang at RTTH and that our wives got to meet and hang out a little. Next year should be even more fun!

[tommycomfort]

Herb, believe me, I know how good I have it! But, Deb started paramedic school and Sam broke his wrist last night playing tennis. So looks like I have lost most of my wrench turning help getting ready for OUSCI. Ugh, I knew I shouldn't have depended so much on them! :banghead:
And Deb really enjoyed meeting Carol and is looking forward to having a "girl" to talk to at future events.
Tom

[tommycomfort]

holy crap you got lucky. suprised it didnt tear up any teeth off the gear

There are a few chips on the teeth, but really didn't hear any new noises for the rest of the weekend and trip home. We did make a gear change from the 4.56 to a 3.73 since then, so all is well now...

[mc84_zz4]

If I didn't see it, I wouldn't believe it.
Man, that is one for the record books. I am surprised you did not have more damage.
That, and you pit crew establishes you as the luckiest guy around.

[Yelcamino]

Herb, believe me, I know how good I have it! But, Deb started paramedic school and Sam broke his wrist last night playing tennis. So looks like I have lost most of my wrench turning help getting ready for OUSCI. Ugh, I knew I shouldn't have depended so much on them! :banghead:
And Deb really enjoyed meeting Carol and is looking forward to having a "girl" to talk to at future events.
Tom

Congrats and good luck to Deb, I'm sure she'll be the star student! Too bad about Sam, tell him he doesn't need to hit the ball so hard! lol! I bet he's bummed!

Carol had a great time and was pretty happy having Deb, Jenny and Christi there to help dilute the testosterone a little!

I'm sure you'll be ready for OUSCI and if you're not, just let me know, I'll find a way to get the time off work to take your place! :6gears:

[Bad94]

Tom, all i can say is that you got lucky with those bolts.

And what was sam thinking to brake his arm before OUSCI?

Remember if you have to have last min help, just call me, if mike or i can help we will. (we dont charge much, cookies will be fine)

[tommycomfort]

Tom, all i can say is that you got lucky with those bolts.

And what was sam thinking to brake his arm before OUSCI?

Remember if you have to have last min help, just call me, if mike or i can help we will. (we dont charge much, cookies will be fine)

Obviously Sam was being selfish when he broke it! Thanks for the offer, I think we'll be good, but if everything starts to fall apart I will definitely call you! I'll get Kaytllin slaving over the oven making cookies....

Tom

[dropit69]

Tom im sure a broken wrist wont stop him from helping..always need a tool gopher..lol..if ya run into needing help im only a few hours away and love them Cookies your Daughter makes..lol..

[Chevrolaine]

That is one awesome picture of the whole fam damily under the car!!
Priceless!!

[Roadbuster]

That is one awesome picture of the whole fam damily under the car!!
Priceless!!

x2 on this comment! You have a great family that sticks together when the chips (or bolts in this case) are down! :)

[tommycomfort]

So, the one problem we've had consistently since getting the car on the road has been cooling. Normally we cool fine cruising down the highway, but after running it hard on an auto-x or road course the temp climbs. I kept thinking getting more core size was the answer and now on the third radiator we still weren't where we wanted to be. Of course we were running a "3000" CFM Zirgo fan with no shroud. Here are some pictures of the current solution. Two Derale tornado two speed high output fans (12" & 14") with an aluminum shroud. We fired them up the other day and we were worried about the dogs getting too close to the front of the Chevelle... :) They each have two speeds so I wired them both to come on low with a 185* on 170* off sensor then high speed to another sensor that comes on at 200* and 185* off. It's a heavy setup, but keeping cool has to come first!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/10/DSC02350-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/10/DSC02352-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/10/DSC02356-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/10/DSC02354-1.jpg

[Yelcamino]

Tom, you might want to check out the Spal fan controller. I have one on the Chevelle and it works awesome! It's also water proof so you can mount in the engine compartment.

It will turn on your main fan at a pre-set low temp at half speed. As the temp goes up the fan speed will increase. Once the temp hits a pre-set high, the primary fan will go on 100% and the secondary fan will kick on at 100%. As the temp comes down, the secondary fan will shut off and the primary fan speed will change as needed.

The nice thing is it will keep the engine temp within a pre-set window.

My El Camino just has a thermo switch that turns on both fans at full speed and they stay on until the temp gets low enough to trip the thermo switch.

I'm going to swap the thermo switch for a Spal controller.

[tommycomfort]

Wow, I should have talked to you about it before drilling and tapping another hole in my intake and running two relays for each fan... Do you happen to have a part number for that controller?
Tom

[Yelcamino]

Here you go! (http://www.a1electric.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=AEOS&Product_Code=FAN-PWM-V3)

Get the optional sender. It says any sender will work but I found that's not really true. I ended up getting the sender after the fact and then everything worked as advertised.

[tommycomfort]

Just realized that I never posted pictures of the completed backseat. Cutters did a fantastic job on it and the headliner!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/10/DSC02254-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/10/DSC02258-1.jpg
The seats might look gray, but they are really black.

[73z-6sp]

Nice!

[John Wright]

Back seat turned out great!

[tommycomfort]

Back seat turned out great!

Yep, Darrin absolutely exceeded our expectations. We really hate to pay anyone to do work on the car, but right now we just don't have the skills, tools, or more so time for interior work. Might have some fancy carpet built for it over the winter too, but we'll see... So far, money well spent in my opinion!
Tom

[COPO-RAT]

How'd you get him to turn it around so quick? I thought he had a pretty healthy waiting list.

Looks great btw!

[Yelcamino]

Yeah Tom, the seat looks great!

[sr73bu]

Trade seats??? I'll cover the greyhound fees... hahaha

Looks awesome Tom!!

-Sean

[tommycomfort]

How'd you get him to turn it around so quick? I thought he had a pretty healthy waiting list.

We've actually been on the "list" for many months and he had an opening that finally worked out with both our schedules so he slid it in.
Lucky us!

[Bad94]

Well, few days and your heading west.

Lets see what she looks like with the new wheels.

[tommycomfort]

We did get the new 18's mounted for running the road course at Putnam Park today, but pulled the tires back off this afternoon in order to have the wheel centers powder coated early this coming week. Keep your fingers crossed that they get done in time.... We also upgraded to BFG KDW's and went up in sizes to 275/35-18 front and 295/35-18 rear. I can't believe they really fit!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/10/DSC02469-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/10/DSC02470-1.jpg

[Tucks69]

Looking Good Tom! Have Fun!!

[tommycomfort]

Along with the Milodon 8 quart road race oil pan we installed a 3 quart Canton Accusump as a little extra insurance while road coursing. The pre-oiling deal is pretty cool also.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/10/DSC02465-1.jpg

[tommycomfort]

Looking Good Tom! Have Fun!!

Thanks Mike, I can't even begin to describe how excited we are about the whole trip to SEMA / OUSCI.

[protouring70]

Maybe a dumb question but is this to keep oil going to engine during the hard turns? Is this better than a baffle?

[rixtrix1]

Great looking '66( wish mine looked this good ), Tom. Have you had a chance to see how well the new fans work?

[green 69]

The new wheels look great. Will look even better powder coated.

Brian

[tommycomfort]

Maybe a dumb question but is this to keep oil going to engine during the hard turns? Is this better than a baffle?

Not a dumb question at all, I didn't really underestand what the accusump was all about until a few months ago. Baffles are great in the oil pan, and we got those when we went with the Milodon road race pan, but the accusump is just another level of protection. I used a pressure switch that will activate an electric valve if my oil pressure drops below 25 pounds. If that happens, it will surge three quarts into the oil passages relatively quick which should hold us over until the oil settles back into the sump of the pan. Once pressure is back to "normal" it will pump the three quarts back into the accusump and be ready for the next battle. The other advantage is that I can pre-oil the engine before starting. Hope that helps explain what it is all about.
Tom

[tommycomfort]

Great looking '66( wish mine looked this good ), Tom. Have you had a chance to see how well the new fans work?
We ran the car pretty hard yesterday at Putnam Park road course with no cooling issues at all. I think the highest it reached was 205* after a 30 minute session. Once it was back in the pits the temps began to drop rapidly to the point of the fans shutting off. (A first for our cooling system) I do plan if time allows to cut some holes and build some rubber flaps that will allow more airflow at highway speeds. It's on my list of things to do before leaving for SEMA / Optima, but since it is cooling very well it is not at the top.
Tom

[COPO-RAT]

We also upgraded to BFG KDW's and went up in sizes to 275/35-18 front and 295/35-18 rear. I can't believe they really fit!



WOW! 275s up front?! That seems big. I was wondering how much tire I'd be able to fit under the fron of my '67, guess I don't need to wonder anymore. What kind of modifications (if any) were needed to run a 275 on the front? Also, what widths and backspacing are your wheels?

[wiedemab]

Wow - the 18's look great! I really wish I could make it out to see you run. I guess I'll have to wait to see you on TV!

[Bad94]

Well i just got word that they are in Nashville .

[COPO-RAT]

Just stopped back in to see if Tom had replied and I see two guys posted that are very near me. Howdy guys.

[tommycomfort]

WOW! 275s up front?! That seems big. I was wondering how much tire I'd be able to fit under the fron of my '67, guess I don't need to wonder anymore. What kind of modifications (if any) were needed to run a 275 on the front? Also, what widths and backspacing are your wheels?

Nothing too fancy with our setup. ATS/AFX spindles, BAER (C-5) brakes and 18x9.5" wheels with 6.5" backspacing. We did end up with a 1/8" spacer to clear the brakes but other than that... We do rub a little tire on the Ridetech musclebar swaybar, but the last swaybar we were rubbing rim. Blah!

[tommycomfort]

Well, we made it to SEMA and have the car fairly cleaned up. Still need to finish the OUSCI decal package, but that can wait until the sun isn't beating down on the car.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/11/DSC02664-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/11/DSC02665-1.jpg

Check out some of the trek pictures here:
https://www.pro-touring.com/forum/showthread.php?73748-SEMA-crosscountry-trek-I

[Bad94]

Glad to see you made it.

[tommycomfort]

Alright guys, I am now recovered from the trip, finally received all the pictures my brother-in-law took and am back at work (firehouse) so I can finally post. First off, let me start by saying how disappointed I am in my overall performance. Tied with eight other cars for 39th out of 52 cars is not so impressive. The whole drive home I kept thinking, if I had only done this different, or if I had sorted the car better before heading west, etc, etc. My Dad used to tell me that excuses are like belly buttons, everyone has one. Later on I learned how the saying actually went. To start with, my driving needs tons of improvement and I will continue to work on that, but for the Optima event I had my current skill level and nothing more. On the mechanical side, I had the car chassis dynoed about ten days before leaving to dial in the timing and hopefully gain a little adjustment on the carb. I didn't post anything about the results before the event for obvious reasons, but the bottom line is the 454 made 278.1 HP at the rear wheels and 397.9 ft.lbs of torque. I knew it was very mild, but dang I thought mild like 350 HP! Oh well, the torque feels good coming out of corners, but a little lacking on straightaways.

Bottom line, we had the time of our lives. We left our place the Thursday before SEMA and headed down to Nashville to link up with Brian and Nichole Finch, Mark Owens and Bill Howell. Friday morning we took off with me driving the 66 and Debbie driving the truck and trailer. Throughout the day we switched off and had a blast rolling with the group. Saturday we hauled the car on the trailer all day since fueling two vehicles every time we stopped was staggering. Then after linking up with Mark and Stacey Turner Saturday night in Williams, AZ all nine of us loaded up in their new motor home and headed to the Grand Canyon Sunday morning. What a blast. After that we all headed the rest of the way into Vegas (driving the 66 again).

All said and done, this was the best vacation we have ever taken! What great memories and a bunch of new friends!

I'll shut up and post some pictures.

Sam and Bill Howell at the Grand Canyon
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/11/DSC02646-1.jpg

The whole group of us at the Grand Canyon
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/11/DSC02641-1.jpg

Sam and I working on new exhaust hangers at SEMA
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/11/IMG_2354-1.jpg

Deb, Sam, Elvis and myself on the road ralley out to Pahrump
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/11/DSC02960-1.jpg

Lined up and waiting for the warm-up laps
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/11/IMG_2451-1.jpg

A little off the line on the road course
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/11/IMG_2495-1.jpg

Me telling the style judges "What's not to like?" Maybe that's why they lost my score...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/11/IMG_2615-1.jpg

My Brother-in-law Don, Kaytlin and Sam
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/11/IMG_2420-1.jpg

This is me holding my new L&H Kustoms spindles for the wagon (more on that later) and Chris Jacobs telling me "Parts aren't going to help you, your driving stinks..." Well, if not that's what he should have said.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/11/IMG_2632-1.jpg

All loaded up and ready to head to the hotel
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/11/IMG_2639-1.jpg

[Zanie]

Cool!

Thanks for sharing!!!

[Bad94]

Even tho you finished 39th, you still have to hold your head high for building a car that was able to run with that class of cars. Its not about winning its about having fun and sending time with family and friends.

As for power, thats why i ended up putting the junk pile built LT1 into the black camaro, im working on another motor set up for the Nova.

[tommycomfort]

Even tho you finished 39th, you still have to hold your head high for building a car that was able to run with that class of cars. Its not about winning its about having fun and sending time with family and friends.

As for power, thats why i ended up putting the junk pile built LT1 into the black camaro, im working on another motor set up for the Nova.

I agree, having the time of our lives with family and friends is priceless, but doing well still holds much value. I would like to say this winter would bring an LS to rest in the engine compartment, but I think that will end up waiting until winter of 2011/12. Maybe a better distributor, carb and aluminum heads this winter to get us by. Remember, Deb not only wants serious progress on the house remodel, but wider tires and more motor in the wagon for next season. All I need is 28 hours in the day and I will get caught up! (along with hitting the lottery) Maybe I can home school Sam so he can help me out....
Tom

[tommycomfort]

Cool!

Thanks for sharing!!!

Dan,
Good to meet you out there! Glad to post the pictures and will post more once I sort through them.
Tom

[69projectKAOS]

love the chevelle, by far one of my favorite body styles. i definitely have to get my camaro down to one of these road course events, they look like a blast to drive and the decal kit would look sweet on my car lmao. -Dom

[tommycomfort]

love the chevelle, by far one of my favorite body styles. i definitely have to get my camaro down to one of these road course events, they look like a blast to drive and the decal kit would look sweet on my car lmao. -Dom

Dom,
You really need to make some of the events. More than the road courses and auto-x's, the people are just fun to be around.
Tom

[69projectKAOS]

yea i do, the thing is i live in ny and my car is nothing compared to your car and half the guys that i saw in the pictures and videos. lol maybe ill see all the pt guys at one one of these days. -Dom

[tommycomfort]

Here's a funny story. Deb and I had a little bit of free time this morning after our dental check-ups so we decided to drive the Chevelle up to Quinlin Automotive (our machine shop of choice) to talk to the owner about ways to make more power. Aluminum heads and a hydraulic roller cam seem to be the stop gap until we can do the LS swap. OK, none of that was the funny part of the story. On the way back I looked up in my mirror to see the red and blue flashing lights of a lawman. Believe me, I really don't drive fast anymore unless I am trying to keep up with Bill H. or Brian F. on a road trip. So, sure enough he was pulling us over and I was positive that other people were going faster than us and I started thinking that I really should have taken the OUSCI decals off since it looks like a racecar right now. I usually fair well with law enforcement since I show them the respect they deserve (being a firefighter and in the National Guard helps too). So, I put my hands on the wheel and waited for him to walk up. His words were something like "you can take your hands off the wheel, I just want to look at your car if you have time". Now I've said before that the biggest compliment I can get is when some stranger honks his horn and gives me a thumbs up going down the road, but this topped that. He did apologize and said if we were in a hurry we could go, but he was all about seeing every aspect of the Chevelle and in fact owns a 66 himself. I only wish I had taken a picture of us pulled over to post on here. It was an excellent car conversation and he plans to bring his Chevelle by my firehouse in the near future. Good times!
Tom

[wiedemab]

Now that's a pretty cool story.

[youthpastor]

way cool story thanks for sharing- Chris

[srh3trinity]

That is a cool story. My brother in law is a deputy and a big car guy. I will have to ask him if he has ever pulled anybody over to scope out their car. I have him talked into going a different route with his Fox body Mustang build. He was going with a built 351 and C4 for straight line action and now going with a stroker/T5 and suspension upgrades to make a better all around car that can go AutoXing from time to time.

[bonecrrusher]

Nice!

[LeighP]

Very nice car....enjoyable read about your trip, too.

[Yelcamino]

Welcome home Tom! Glad you and the family had a great time! I'm jealous!

[tommycomfort]

If anyone is interested, the interview I did with Robert Kibbe of The MuscleCar Place came out today. I doubt everyone (my family) would agree that I'm such a great guy, but he said some very nice things...
Tom

http://www.themusclecarplace.com/the-musclecar-place-podcast-episode-62-tom-farringtons-66-chevelle-is-a-family-affair

[Finch]

Very nice interview Tom....You and your family are the model for the rest of us to follow, we always look forward to seeing you at events.

[tommycomfort]

Very nice interview Tom....You and your family are the model for the rest of us to follow, we always look forward to seeing you at events.

If we're the model for the rest to follow we're in touble! lol

[tommycomfort]

Well, so much for the aluminum heads, roller cam, carb and distributor for the big block. We started doing the math and just decided to jump into the LS world. So, We put the 454 up for sale and ended up selling it complete with the Vintage Air front runner system. After that we called Travis (daytonayellaz) to see what was available. Bottom line is we now have a 2008 L92 from an Escalade and a LS3 intake to go with it. As of right now the plan will be a Mast Motorsports cam, valve springs, harness, ECM and oil pan. Beyond that we will be finding decent headers and adapting the Viper T-56 to work with the combo. Here's the latest pictures:

454 out and beginning the crate.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/12/DSC03059-1.jpg

Crated 454 waiting for shipping company..
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/12/DSC03079-1.jpg

L92
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/12/DSC03113-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/12/DSC03131-1.jpg

LS3 intake and DBW pedal
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/12/DSC03125-1.jpg

Three different books, what could go wrong?...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/12/DSC03124-1.jpg

[73z-6sp]

Nice! :)

[bonecrrusher]

Oh snap!

Welcome to the LS world - I love the 2 I own!!

[Vinz68]

Nice!! Your gonna like the Ls.

[tommycomfort]

It's been brought to my attention that I haven't posted any updates in a while. As we work on gathering parts and cleaning up the LS we have been trying to complete a few small things that were on our list for the winter. One is installing the DSE rear swaybar that we never got around to last season and the other is removing our speaker kick panels and going back to stock ones.

Turns out the reason for our poor OUSCI performance wasn't my lack of driving skill or horsepower, but the additional weight of the speaker kick panels!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/01/DSC03334-1.jpg

We won a gift certificate (door prize) for DSE stuff from Motorstate and put it toward the swaybar last year.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/01/DSC03310-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/01/DSC03339-1.jpg

[Yelcamino]

Looks good Tom. Keep the updates coming!

[sr73bu]

NICE! I was looking at that bar for my Chevelle! Keep the updates coming!

Tell Sam to drop the speakers and get back to work on the "Fantastic" four door!!!

-Sean

[tommycomfort]

OK, it may not big a huge deal to some, but around the Farrington household we feel like Rock Stars right now! I know it has nothing to do with our build thread, but here's our page (43) in the March issue of Popular Hot Rodding.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/01/relyingonspeed2-1.jpg

And if that wasn't enough, they even put us on the "contents" page!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/01/CONTENTS-1.jpg

[73z-6sp]

Sweet!

[Mr.VENGEANCE]

awesome!

[RJ66]

Congrats Tom well deserved recognition!

[green 69]

Great article in Popular Hotrodding. Lookin forward to your updates.

Brian

[Yelcamino]

Congrats Farington Family! Well deserved recognition! :twothumbs :cheers:

[Bow Tie 67]

Ah yes, the LS world, welcome. Looking forward to this coming season.

[70TWO NOVA]

awesome car, and with that L92 you will enjoy it so much more!

[tommycomfort]

Thanks guys, not sure about well deserved recognition, but we'll take it!

[dropit69]

nice on the LS Tom..love the guard dogs around the BB..lol...now if snow would ever go away id road trip it and visit..

[Rybar]

Congrats Tom, just went through the entire thread. Great build, and love all the updates. Congrats on the ink in PHR

[bonecrrusher]

What Month is that PHR feature in??

[tommycomfort]

nice on the LS Tom..love the guard dogs around the BB..lol...now if snow would ever go away id road trip it and visit..

Darrin,
The highways are clear, come on down!

[tommycomfort]

What Month is that PHR feature in??
It's in the March issue that just came out. I don't think it would be considered a feature, but it is on page 43.
Tom


Congrats Tom, just went through the entire thread. Great build, and love all the updates. Congrats on the ink in PHR
Thanks for the reading through the thread! The ink in PHR is just the icing on the cake!
Tom

[tommycomfort]

More small work done before getting the engine swap in high gear... We took another set of stock pedals and cut off the metal pedal pads, cut some 1/8" steel pads, had it all powder coated then glued abrasive non-slip material to them. I'll have to get new Converse Chuck Tailors this season since my old ones are worn all the way through...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/02/DSC03442-1.jpg

Comparison
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/02/DSC03502-1.jpg

Installed
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/02/DSC03507-1.jpg

[wiedemab]

Nice!

[QUOTE=tommycomfort;768149]I'll have to get new Converse Chuck Taylors this season since my old ones are worn all the way through...

I bought a pair of Piloti driving shoes last year on an internet sale deal, but I still think I like my Chuck's way better.

[tommycomfort]

Nice! I bought a pair of Piloti driving shoes last year on an internet sale deal, but I still think I like my Chuck's way better.

I've really been kicking around a pair of Piloti shoes, but don't want to have shoes that don't match my driving ability. Kind of like when I bought a carbon fiber Trek bike when i was doing triathlons and was getting passed by kids with Murray and Huffy ten speeds during the bike portion...
Tom
:drive1:

[sr73bu]

Chuck Taylor's.... Grip tape.... Are the Farrington's making a transition into skateboarding!!???
OUSCI... Check
PHR... Check
Thrasher skateboard Magazine...?

But Seriously... Nice updates! pedal came out great!

-Sean

[tommycomfort]

Chuck Taylor's.... Grip tape.... Are the Farrington's making a transition into skateboarding!!???
OUSCI... Check
PHR... Check
Thrasher skateboard Magazine...?

But Seriously... Nice updates! pedal came out great!

-Sean

You've got the whole family laughing here! Believe me, I don't have anywhere near the coordination required for skateboarding....

I just burnt through two hours posting a new build thread for the wagon. It's a wonder we get any projects done!
Tom

[73z-6sp]

fvgbhn

[tommycomfort]

Alright, we're making progress ever so slowly. Once all the snow and ice starts to melt my anxiety level will go through the roof knowing time is limited before Run to the Shore...

We needed to remove the coil-overs to change to a lighter spring rate since we're going from an all iron big block to an all aluminum "LS". Seemed like a good idea to take it completely apart and clean all the parts. I've cried the blues about the Lake Michigan sand from the huge storm we experienced on the Motor State Challenge cruise last June. You've got to know that we've cleaned this thing over and over since then, but some things you just can reach. Luckily Deb graced me with her presence at the shop yesterday and she is a cleaning machine.
I also have the motor cleaned up and painted, but I'll save those pictures until components start going on.
Tom

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/02/DSC03605-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/02/DSC03613-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/02/DSC03611-1.jpg

[tommycomfort]

LOL! That makes me laugh. Please don't ask why. I'm too embarrassed!

Come on Aaron, I am dying to hear the story now!

[tommycomfort]

The Mast Motorsports parts finally came and the new cam and springs went in yesterday. Under five weeks to go before Run to the Shore. I think we're ok on time, but still lots of parts to purchase...

spring height difference
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/02/DSC03709-1.jpg

new cam that we cleaned well after it was all over Sam's dirty coveralls
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/02/DSC03717-1.jpg

working on the spring change
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/02/DSC03714-1.jpg

[Bad94]

So you will have this running by next weekend?

[David Sloan]

Looking Good Tom! Ya'll keep up the good work. I hope to get to see you guys this year!

[tommycomfort]

So you will have this running by next weekend?

Well maybe not next weekend, but four more... :fingersx:

[tommycomfort]

Looking Good Tom! Ya'll keep up the good work. I hope to get to see you guys this year!

Man David, we're hoping to see you too. How are you feeling?
Tom

[BossaNova]

Glad to see that engine going together.
What book does Sam have opened up in the chair behind him?

[Tucks69]

Looking Good Tom! Funny how the cars are never done!!

[tommycomfort]

Glad to see that engine going together.
What book does Sam have opened up in the chair behind him?

That was "How to Rebuild GM LS-Series Engines (SA Design)". It has the most information on the cam and valve spring installation. None of the three books we have really talk about swapping cams in an existing motor, but with some common sense (Sam) and that book we were able to get it done without incident. We're also now claiming that the motor has 530 HP at the crank since the cam is installed....

[tommycomfort]

Looking Good Tom! Funny how the cars are never done!!

That seems funny to you? LOL We love working on the 66, but at this point I wish we could be dumping some time and money into the wagon or Sam's four door. Next winter they will have to get all the love!
Tom

[DYNODANNY]

Wow what a nice chevelle, I'm saving some money to get mine from street- strip to street-road. Need to finish my 36 ford truck 1st. Nice chevelle and will see your LS up-grade closely.

[tommycomfort]

Been a while since I updated and we're down to a week before hopefully leaving for Run to the Shore. We have all the big parts except a new driveshaft and all the small parts have been ordered. Here are some pictures to get us caught up.

Here's the engine hanging from the hoist with the Vintage Air Front Runner installed. Just like the one we had for the big block it is an amazing piece!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/03/DSC03843-1.jpg

Engine in the car
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/03/DSC038732-1.jpg

New Ricks tank before it was installed. We really wanted the Vaporworxs tank, but since our renter stopped paying his rent in December we settled for the no frills tank...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/03/DSC038711-1.jpg

[tommycomfort]

OK, I know it's not much but I love to do a little fabrication work when I can. This is the bracket I made to hold the clutch master cylinder reservoir.https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/03/DSC03909-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/03/DSC03912-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/03/DSC03916-1.jpg

Started installing the wiring harness this morning before coming to work. Wow, lots of branches coming off of this trunk of wire, but most of it is just plug in connectors
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/03/DSC03920-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/03/DSC03923-1.jpg

[DYNODANNY]

Man your chevelle is sweet... real good insperation for my chevelle.

[tommycomfort]

Man your chevelle is sweet... real good insperation for my chevelle.

Thanks, it has a million flaws, but it sure has been fun for the whole family to build and drive.
Tom

[Tucks69]

I wish mine was that close!! I like the bracket, I have to make one for mine to.

[Bad94]

Looks good tom.


Why did you take the hydroboost off?

[Ron.in.SoCal]

Nice job Tommie. I chickened out and bought one...

That LS looks nice in there!

[73z-6sp]

erdghj

[tommycomfort]

Looks good tom.


Why did you take the hydroboost off?

Good eye Dan! I removed the hydraboost after fighting with the fittings on the clutch master cylinder. Probably could have made it work, but the car stopped "too well" last season and after talking to Chris Jacobs when he was down last weekend I decided to try this route before messing with anything else. It's a 15/16" bore master so I think it should do fine. We'll see....

[tommycomfort]

Looking very nice!! Hey...check the fitment of the tank and straps ASAP if you are planning to take it to the RTTS. Mine came with straps that were about two inches too short. Hector sent some longer ones but I had already made new straps at work so I could finish the install that weekend. Hopefully yours fit fine but just in case. You can have the longer ones he sent me if you need them.

Thanks Aaron, it was a really tight fit, but with Sam's help and some longer stove bolts we were successful. Now that the straps have conformed to the tank I think I can put the shorter bolts back in. Might be another thing we mess with after Run to the Shore.

[Yelcamino]

Tom, the LS looks like a nice fit! I can't wait to see how it performs!

[Crestronwizard]

Awesome build.

[geberhard]

Sweet project! Definitely jonesing for a 66 here :)

[tommycomfort]

Awesome build.


Sweet project! Definitely jonesing for a 66 here :)

Thanks! Sure is fun right up until I start loosing sleep over it. Then once that has past and thrash is over it's all good memories...

[tommycomfort]

Tom, the LS looks like a nice fit! I can't wait to see how it performs!

Nice fit if you use a sledge hammer. I know it's "hot rodding", but nothing that says "direct fit" is ever a direct fit. Grrrrrr......
A bunch less weight up front and 425-450HP at the rear wheels compared to the 280 we had, it should be a different driving experience. My new battle cry at events will be "Don't kill myself"! Maybe Deb should take over the 66 and I'll go back to wagon. LOL

[jake72ss]

Tom, my chevelle currently has a mild 454 similar to your old one, Maybe you could let me ride along when you come down to RTMC, to help convince me to do an LS swap. Thanks Jake

[johnny68]

Tom its coming along great makes me want to ls the nova someday i will prolly do it 1 ? what breather is that on the firewall
john

[tommycomfort]

Tom, my chevelle currently has a mild 454 similar to your old one, Maybe you could let me ride along when you come down to RTMC, to help convince me to do an LS swap. Thanks Jake

Absolutely Jake, just come find me and we'll take it for a spin!
Tom

[tommycomfort]

Tom its coming along great makes me want to ls the nova someday i will prolly do it 1 ? what breather is that on the firewall
john

Just caught up on your build thread John. Excellent!
The breather is just a canton that I am using for the fresh air side of my PCV system. We had it from the big block days so thought we would use it.
Tom

[analyte]

Tom,
What engine and frame mounts did you use to install the L92? I've looked really hard at the one pic where the mounts are visible, but I can't make out which ones they are. Also, did you have any issues with tie rod clearance with the Mast pan? I'm still trying to decide between the Mast and Autokraft.

Nice build!!!

Kerry

[tommycomfort]

Tom,
What engine and frame mounts did you use to install the L92? I've looked really hard at the one pic where the mounts are visible, but I can't make out which ones they are. Also, did you have any issues with tie rod clearance with the Mast pan? I'm still trying to decide between the Mast and Autokraft.

Nice build!!!

Kerry

Thanks Kerry!
We started with Moroso mounts but never installed the motor with them. Right now it has the Hooker mounts to go with the headers but could probably benefit from us building our own adapter plates. Definitely not a direct fit! The tie rods are hitting the pan, but we also had that problem with the big block and the Milodon pans we ran. Hopefully tomorrow we'll install a different center link and maybe clearance the pan and tie rods slightly. I don't really like the idea of raising the engine for clearance.
Tom

[analyte]

Sorry Tom, but I'm still kind of new to this.

Your using Hooker adaptor plates for the engine, or does Hooker offer a Chevelle frame mount also? Unless I'm mistaking, you are using the stock 66-67 frame mounts with the Hooker adaptor plates?

Thanks again,
Kerry

[tommycomfort]

Sorry Tom, but I'm still kind of new to this.

Your using Hooker adaptor plates for the engine, or does Hooker offer a Chevelle frame mount also? Unless I'm mistaking, you are using the stock 66-67 frame mounts with the Hooker adaptor plates?

Thanks again,
Kerry

No worries Kerry, I should have made that clearer.
Motor mount towers or frame stands: Stock small block 64-67 Chevelle
Motor mounts: Energy Suspension poly mounts
Adapter plates: Were Moroso, but now are Hooker

Seems like to run any adapter plate that has the motor mount upside down from the factory position(Moroso, ATS and others) will require Big block motor mount towers. Just an observation.

I hope to get a bunch of pictures posted today or tomorrow of where we stand on the swap. We obviously didn't get done in time for RTTS and are still battling depression over that....

[analyte]

Thanks for the clarification Tom.

Now that's good news!! I was thinking the later 68-72 frame stands will be required, along with drilling new holes, to center the engine mount over the crossmember which will pull the engine rearward. I currently have the BBC frame stands that are dimensionally correct to your SBC frame stands so what I have may work. I just need my engine here to know for sure....

Kerry

[analyte]

BTW Tom,
While you're taking pics today, could you get a pic of your passenger side mounting with the Hooker plates, engine mount, etc. I've got Edelbrock plates from a while back, and I'd like to compare what I have to yours since we know your L92 fit. They appear the same in pictures, but I'd like to see a pic if possible since most conversions I find are later year Chevelles.

Thanks again,
Kerry

[tommycomfort]

BTW Tom,
While you're taking pics today, could you get a pic of your passenger side mounting with the Hooker plates, engine mount, etc. I've got Edelbrock plates from a while back, and I'd like to compare what I have to yours since we know your L92 fit. They appear the same in pictures, but I'd like to see a pic if possible since most conversions I find are later year Chevelles.

Thanks again,
Kerry

Here's a shot of the passenger side mount before install.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/04/DSC038481-1.jpg

[analyte]

Thanks!! That helps a lot!!

[tommycomfort]

Alright, I know it's been a while, but after failing to get the car together for RTTS in New Jersey we just stepped back for about a week and took a breather. I took a road trip to North Carolina to drop off an Elcamino frame and pick up a 69 Dart for a guy I work with. I stopped by and saw Mike Holleman and his friend Bobby in Moorehead City, NC. It was great seeing them and Mike actually was kind enough to put me up for the night. On the way home I made a point to stop by and see Detroit Speed and Engineering. Kyle Tucker spent almost two hours showing me around and introducing me to a bunch of the employees. I really have a thing for quality American made products and I was blown away with DSE. After I left and started reflecting on my visit and realized I had used the word "tremendous" about a hundred times. I always kick myself for over using words, but it described every aspect of their operation.

Back to the car! We ran into some problems with the tie rods contacting the new oil pan. So with a little massaging and replacing the huge Moog inner tie rods with smaller original style ones I think we have that problem beat.

After figuring out I had a bad starter, we were able to start it the other day, but since the radiator isn't hooked up I was only able to run it for a very short time. It ran odd and idled really high for about two seconds before the ECM figured things out and then it ran great! The exhaust wasn't connected yet so I couldn't get a good feel for how it will sound, but it is now, so I may be able to hear it tomorrow. Again I had to take it to the local muffler and brake place (:-() to have them bend some pipe to connect to the new headers. The headers don't have collector flanges so I made some (much better than the ones I made for the mufflers). I also made some temporary gaskets from material I had around the shop and my brother is going to make some true exhaust gaskets using my template. He's in the rubber and gasket business, so that's helpful. We decided to paint the exhaust black too. It looks cool under the car, but we'll have to see how the tail pipes look when it's back down at ride height. The hoses and tubes from Speedway Motors for the radiator should arrive tomorrow and I will start to sort that connection mess out. If all goes well it will be on the road next week and ready for an alignment.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/04/DSC04042-1.jpg

Building the new flanges
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/04/DSC04014-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/04/DSC04016-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/04/DSC04017-1.jpg

Painted exhaust
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/04/DSC04045-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/04/DSC04050-1.jpg

[Bad94]

Looking good.


Whos oil catch can is that on the firewall?

[tommycomfort]

Looking good.


Whos oil catch can is that on the firewall?

Thanks Dan!
That's a Canton that we're using for the clean air side of the PCV system.

[Yelcamino]

Looks good Tom! You'll need to post up a video so we can all hear how it sounds.

[Tucks69]

Wish I knew you were down in the Carolina's you could have stopped by to see me Tommy!

[tommycomfort]

Looks good Tom! You'll need to post up a video so we can all hear how it sounds.

Will do Herb, but you know it's never the same as the real thing...

[tommycomfort]

Wish I knew you were down in the Carolina's you could have stopped by to see me Tommy!

I thought about that Mike, but you were in the opposite direction and the fuel prices were killing me. Next time!

[73z-6sp]

jnumk,l

[tommycomfort]

Looks great Tom! Im sure it was exciting hearing it run! Your install is so clean! Looking forward to videos!

Thanks Aaron, but everything looks better if you use enough zip ties... :)

[73z-6sp]

njmk,l.;

[tommycomfort]

Hey...I was just looking at the last few pics. I thought you were using shorty headers? Which headers did you decide to use? How is your ground clearance?

Ended up going with the Hooker headers and mounts. Great ground clearance but I would say that the headers are too close to the floor. If that hadn't been an issue I would have raised the engine up about an 1/8 - 3/16" to solve the tie rod to oil pan problem. Does it seem like I am hard to please?...
I also talked with Stainless Works today about using our car as the guinea pig for 64-67 headers but that wouldn't be until later in the year for sure. I tried to convince them that I was a big deal and would be good for advertising, but I'm sure they saw right through that act.
:seizure:

[73z-6sp]

vgbhnjm

[TomT]

Looking great! Nice work on the header flanges too.

[johnny68]

hey Tom did you just use regular high temp paint on the exhaust everything looks great
john

[wiedemab]

I can't see the pics - our web police block photo-share sites at work so I"ll have to check them out at home.

I'm glad to hear you are getting close. I know what you mean about taking a break. I get to a certain point where I'm still working on a project, but not with the enthusiasm that I should be. I try to walk away for at least a few days (sometimes longer) and then I'm back to being excited to work on it again.

That is cool that you were able to visit DSE. I laughed at your comment about overusing a word....I do the same thing. I also get "disappointed" in myself when I latch on to a word or saying from someone else after being around them. Anyway, back on topic. DSE is one of those places that really is hard to describe until you've been there. It's definitely a very cool shop.

Keep up the good work!

[tommycomfort]

hey Tom did you just use regular high temp paint on the exhaust everything looks great
john

Nothing fancy, just Duplicolor semi-gloss black engine enamel. Started and ran the engine for about ten minutes this afternoon and it seems to hold up quite well.

[sr73bu]

Tom and Family.... the car is looking Awesome! Sorry you couldn't make it out to RTTS...hope to see you out there next year! Great teamwork on getting the LS swap done so clean and in such a short amount of time! Now go out and enjoy it!!!
...Not you Tom.... its back to the garage, to work on the wagon and the fantastic four door... i'm sure your family will provide you with some tools, bread, water and a cot...
and you thought all that time spent away from "thier" projects wouldn't have to be paid back?.... lol

-Sean

[tommycomfort]

Tom and Family.... the car is looking Awesome! Sorry you couldn't make it out to RTTS...hope to see you out there next year! Great teamwork on getting the LS swap done so clean and in such a short amount of time! Now go out and enjoy it!!!
...Not you Tom.... its back to the garage, to work on the wagon and the fantastic four door... i'm sure your family will provide you with some tools, bread, water and a cot...
and you thought all that time spent away from "thier" projects wouldn't have to be paid back?.... lol

-Sean

Thanks Sean, but come on, time for me to enjoy the fruits of my labor! Deb has been busy with school so she has been limited help and Sam wants to do everything on his car himself with limited guidance. Kaytlin did clean the wagon up nicely the other day so she could drive it to the school car show. She said it was a huge hit amongst the H.S. guys. She can talk fairly intelligent about cars so I'm sure they were surprised.... I'm going to let her take it to the SCCA novice auto-x instruction day May 7th so she'll be in the driving mix too.

[tommycomfort]

All the tubes and silicone hoses showed up from Speedway Motors. It was actually a lot easier to make it all work than I thought it would be. If I had TIG skills (and a TIG welder) we could have put it all together in an hour or so.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/04/DSC04107-1.jpg

[tommycomfort]

Still not on the road yet, but at least it is running. It has a much more "lopey" idle than our big block did. Idles right around 790-800 rpms.

Video proof of it running:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/04/th_M4H04105-1.jpg (http://s205.photobucket.com/albums/bb267/tommycomfort/66%20LS%20conversion/?action=view&current=M4H04105.mp4)

[Ron S]

I love when you get that close, its like Christmas. I know you can't wait to get out and play with your new toys. It does sound pretty lopey, I know you won't be disappointed with the change. Ron

[Bad94]

Hell yea.

Thats what i like to see.

[Yelcamino]

It sounds good Tom! The next step is the shakedown cruise! :drive:

[tommycomfort]

It sounds good Tom! The next step is the shakedown cruise! :drive:

I'd really like to get it down and road test it tomorrow, but I have a feeling that I'll be hiding Easter eggs for my nephew after church tomorrow. Grrrrrr....... Friday I have some National Guard stuff going on and I'd like to run it down the highway for that. It would be a nice and easy 120 mile round trip.

[tommycomfort]

Not sure if anyone really wants to look at this, but I have been keeping a running word document of $$$ spent on the swap. It doesn't show the $3900 that we sold the BBC for or parts from the L92 that we've sold or still need to sell. I left a few things blank to honor agreements. I did estimate a little low when I sold this idea to myself and Deb, but I think it will be worth it in the end. (crossing my fingers)

66 Chevelle LS swap

Engine: L92 (2008 Escalade) $4200

LS3 intake $275

Mast Motorsports M-90 DBW L99 HO performance package, DBW pedal, and oil pan $$$$.$$

LS bellhousing (LS1tech classifieds) $160

Valve spring tool and air fitting $60.00

RPM transmission LS midplate, input shaft and labor $620

Keisler Clutch actuator, LS old school flywheel and bellhousing bolts $903.85

Gaskets (oil pan, timing cover, valve covers) $100 +/-

Ricks stainless fuel tank $1100 shipped

DSE LS/SBC coilover springs for swap $$$.$$

Spark plugs and JB Weld for valve covers $59.80

Hooker headers and mounts $$$.$$

Earl’s lines for PCV, Accusump, remote oil filter and cooler $141.86

GM valve cover bolt and starter bolts $14.83

Mast Motorsports O2 sensors (2) $94.98

Napa C-5 fuel filter/regulator $42.80

Pure Choice Motorsports EFI fuel rail -6 fitting and (3) regulator -6 fittings $91.90

PCV canister (Mike Norris) $100

Exhaust clamps, Lokar dipstick, thermostat (Summit racing) $104.75

More Earl’s AN fittings $66.16

More Earl’s AN fittings for PCV system $62.62

Shaftmasters driveshaft $307.39

Remote power steering reservoir and aluminum pump (DSE) $276.75

Roadster shop 8” shifter handle (3” setback) $81.45

Earl’s Indy 16’ -6 pro-lite 350 black hose and two toggles $124.38

Warner Steel (aluminum scrap for brackets) $13.11

Hubler Chevrolet (08 Corvette MAP sensor) $69

CAR-X (Bend exhaust tube to connect to hooker headers) $100

Automotion spd. shop (wilwood 570 for clutch & Royal Purple synchromax for trans) $83.42

VA front runner system $$$$.$$

Radiator hoses and tubes from Speedway Motors. $150.25

Tig weld radiator and tubes $20

McMaster Carr shrink tube radiator clamps and wiring shrink tube $27.62

Total paid: $14864.78

[Yelcamino]

66 Chevelle LS swap

Total paid: $14864.78

That's a chunk of change Tom! If it makes you feel any better, I always under estimate my projects too! Over the years Carol came up with her own formula when I give her an estimate... she multiplies whatever I say by 3. She's usually pretty close! lol

[BossaNova]

Dang Tommy. There is so much I like about your car.

What water pump/spacer are you running with the VVT?

[tommycomfort]

Dang Tommy. There is so much I like about your car.

What water pump/spacer are you running with the VVT?

Thanks Mark! Vintage Air offers a spacer kit to use with their front runner system on a VVT equipped engine. Nothing about that kit is cheap, but the engineering and quality is flat out awesome. It's part of the $$$$.$$ we paid for the front runner...

[CruizinKev]

sounds and looks good! :twothumbs

[Tucks69]

The Chevelle looks and sounds great Tommy! My wife tells me don't even tell me what it costs, I don't want to know! LOL

[tommycomfort]

Just posted this on Chevelles.com since some people were choking on the money we've spent...

There are definitely less expensive ways to go about the swap, but we chose to some fairly expensive items. A gen III would've been less expensive than the gen IV that we chose. Modifying a B-body fuel tank, doing our own wiring harness, modifying the original accessory drive system and not doing a cam swap would have saved a ton of money, but these were just things we opted for. Some things we did were just for convenience, looks, or overall performance. I hope our choices don't deter anyone from doing their own research and making their own decision based on needs and desires. We just figured showing the cash we've thrown at the swap and the individual parts would help with the choices.

[Tucks69]

I think you will really like the improved drivability. Thats why I decided to go the LS route as well. I decided to spend the money up front and get what I want instead of settling! I just ordered my Ricks narrowed tank, and narrowed 9 inch ford. Mine will hopefully be a roller in a couple weeks. I am however doing my own wiring harness, I just wanted to learn and so I could do a ls swap on my 68 Camaro, and my DD when it quits! I am looking forward to seeing the Chevelle this fall.

[Yelcamino]

Just posted this on Chevelles.com since some people were choking on the money we've spent...

There are definitely less expensive ways to go about the swap, but we chose to some fairly expensive items. A gen III would've been less expensive than the gen IV that we chose. Modifying a B-body fuel tank, doing our own wiring harness, modifying the original accessory drive system and not doing a cam swap would have saved a ton of money, but these were just things we opted for. Some things we did were just for convenience, looks, or overall performance. I hope our choices don't deter anyone from doing their own research and making their own decision based on needs and desires. We just figured showing the cash we've thrown at the swap and the individual parts would help with the choices.

No worries Tom! It's what makes you and your family happy so it's worth every penny! I don't even bother telling non-car/non-pt car people what I spent on wheels, they'll never understand and it's not worth trying to make them understand!

Besides, with RTMC just around the corner you have to make sure the Chevelle is ready to roll damn the costs! :cheers:

[tommycomfort]

No worries Tom! It's what makes you and your family happy so it's worth every penny! I don't even bother telling non-car/non-pt car people what I spent on wheels, they'll never understand and it's not worth trying to make them understand!

Besides, with RTMC just around the corner you have to make sure the Chevelle is ready to roll damn the costs! :cheers:

So much for guys like us talking each other out of spending big money on our hobby! :cheers:

[Yelcamino]

So much for guys like us talking each other out of spending big money on our hobby! :cheers:

That's a funny concept. I think we prefer to egg each other on whether we have the money or not! I find it just as satisfying to spend someone else's money as is to spend my own!

[sr73bu]

Just posted this on Chevelles.com since some people were choking on the money we've spent...

There are definitely less expensive ways to go about the swap, but we chose to some fairly expensive items. A gen III would've been less expensive than the gen IV that we chose. Modifying a B-body fuel tank, doing our own wiring harness, modifying the original accessory drive system and not doing a cam swap would have saved a ton of money, but these were just things we opted for. Some things we did were just for convenience, looks, or overall performance. I hope our choices don't deter anyone from doing their own research and making their own decision based on needs and desires. We just figured showing the cash we've thrown at the swap and the individual parts would help with the choices.

No matter the cost.. look at the investment you have... not just in a beautiful car, but all the good times and memories you can look forward to... thats priceless in my opinion.


ya know Tom, i've been saving that one for my wife... but something tells me your not gonna roll your eyes and laugh... LOL ;)

-Sean

[tommycomfort]

No matter the cost.. look at the investment you have... not just in a beautiful car, but all the good times and memories you can look forward to... thats priceless in my opinion.


ya know Tom, i've been saving that one for my wife... but something tells me your not gonna roll your eyes and laugh... LOL ;)

-Sean

Don't worry Sean, you can still use it on the wife, I don't think she's a member here... LOL

[tommycomfort]

We had this great idea last year when we installed the accusump, but ran out of time before heading to Vegas. Now, with a little more time and since I've been in the wiring mode, I've installed this red LED light on the A-post (windshield pillar) right at eye level to let me know if the accusump is activated. Seems like it's something I might want to know...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/04/DSC04158-1.jpg

[protouring70]

Hey now that is an idea. with out it you ASSUME it is working. And we know what that means (ASS U ME) Yea it hurts to say that!!HAHA

[tommycomfort]

Here's the latest...
I failed to post this previously because I was so sick about it. When we originally started the "new" LS motor I was shocked at the 23 pounds of oil pressure at cold idle. It really had me perplexed (and worried) for a couple of days. Once I started going over all the possibilities in my head I realized that the Dakota Digital gauge would read EE then flash to 90 back and forth when I turned the key on, but when I started it, it would go straight to 23 and go down if I revved it. So, I called Dakota Digital and talked to a tech guy who immediately informed me that the oil pressure and water temperature would not read correctly using the LS senders. Which also meant figuring out a way to adapt the 1/8 NPT oil sender that came with the dash and coming up with an adapter for the water temperature sender. I ordered a 16mm extension that was tapped for the 1/8 sender from Street and Performance and Dakota Digital came up with a metric VDO sending unit for the temp gauge. Dakota Digital really impressed me with their customer service in both the tech and sales department. I can see another one of their dashes in our wagon or Sam's 67 in the future.

Alright, bottom line, after I sorted out the new sender, I had 60 psi at cold idle. Whew!!!

Here's the 16mm x 16mm x 1/8 NPT fitting (it was polished, but that really isn't our thing...)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/DSC04167-1.jpg

[tommycomfort]

Here's an interior picture that shows the dash (recently cleaned!), the new shifter lever from the Roadster Shop, and pedals that we pictured before. It just all looks better now that it is running again!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/DSC04186-1.jpg

[tommycomfort]

After getting the sending units installed on Thursday afternoon I took the Chevelle for a spin around the block. Apparently the bleeding of the brakes that Deb, Kaytlin and Sam did a month ago wasn't so good because I had to pump them a few times just to stop. So, later on that night we headed back over to the shop to re-bleed the brakes and hydraulic clutch. Took it for another spin and all seemed well.
Friday I had a some National Guard stuff going on so I decided to take the Chevelle and shake it out on the highway a little. It ran great and really tracked well considering it still needs an alignment. I really really tried to not beat on it during the trip, but my "Guard" buddies thought two wide stripes left in the freshly resurfaced parking lot would be cool so I did a moderate burnout to show what a man I am. It really sounds good as it twists up the RPMs. All said and done, that was about a 120 mile round trip and with taking it to the local cruises on Friday and Saturday nights we've racked up about 150 miles on it and it is running stellar. The LS swap was very well received at the local cruises too.

Here's a rear picture. I never thought we would worry about ground clearance in the back. We're thinking about cranking the coilovers up 1/2-3/4" just to be safe.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/DSC04183-1.jpg

[Yelcamino]

After getting the sending units installed on Thursday afternoon I took the Chevelle for a spin around the block. Apparently the bleeding of the brakes that Deb, Kaytlin and Sam did a month ago wasn't so good because I had to pump them a few times just to stop. So, later on that night we headed back over to the shop to re-bleed the brakes and hydraulic clutch. Took it for another spin and all seemed well.
Friday I had a some National Guard stuff going on so I decided to take the Chevelle and shake it out on the highway a little. It ran great and really tracked well considering it still needs an alignment. I really really tried to not beat on it during the trip, but my "Guard" buddies thought two wide stripes left in the freshly resurfaced parking lot would be cool so I did a moderate burnout to show what a man I am. It really sounds good as it twists up the RPMs. All said and done, that was about a 120 mile round trip and with taking it to the local cruises on Friday and Saturday nights we've racked up about 150 miles on it and it is running stellar. The LS swap was very well received at the local cruises too.

Here's a rear picture. I never thought we would worry about ground clearance in the back. We're thinking about cranking the coilovers up 1/2-3/4" just to be safe.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/DSC04183-1.jpg

Don't you dare raise the rear on this thing! It sits PERFECT!!!

[tommycomfort]

Don't you dare raise the rear on this thing! It sits PERFECT!!!

Yeah, who am I kidding, we love the way it sits! LOL :cheers:

[Phaeton]

That's my issue with the tank. It hangs down but damn i want it.

[Debington]

we do have a skid plate that is not being used....LOL

[Scott Parkhurst]

Does the tank hang below the axle? It looks odd in that photo.

[Yelcamino]

Does the tank hang below the axle? It looks odd in that photo.

Maybe it has added capacity which will make it hang lower.

[67MAL]

So much for guys like us talking each other out of spending big money on our hobby! :cheers:
I need different rims before I can install my new spindles, but I think I need to steer clear of
you guys helping me making a purchase.

[tommycomfort]

I need different rims before I can install my new spindles, but I think I need to steer clear of
you guys helping me making a purchase.

We can bring some catalogs to RTMC to help you choose your wheels or whatever else your looking at... :twothumbs

[tommycomfort]

Maybe it has added capacity which will make it hang lower.

From looking at the Rick's website I don't think the capacity is any greater.


Does the tank hang below the axle? It looks odd in that photo.

It doesn't hang below the housing, but it is close. I'll get better pictures soon. Here's a side view though.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/DSC03927-1.jpg

[67MAL]

We can bring some catalogs to RTMC to help you choose your wheels or whatever else your looking at... :twothumbs
That would be great. Be thinking about rims, rear axle, and shocks.

[johnny68]

hey Tom hows that exhaust paint doing has it faded or anything
john

[tommycomfort]

hey Tom hows that exhaust paint doing has it faded or anything
john

I crawled under it last night to tighten all the exhaust flange bolts and the paint still looks great.

[tommycomfort]

Does the tank hang below the axle? It looks odd in that photo.

Turns out that it is about an inch lower than the rearend housing. Probably wouldn't be if we still had a standard anti-swaybar. It looks to be even with the mufflers and lower coilover mounts. I'm not really worried about it being too low, if something hits it we've already had other bigger problems.

How's your wagon doing? Ready for the PT season?

Here's another picture
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/DSC04217-1.jpg

[Blitz]

It doesn't look SO bad in that side shot. For some reason it looks much lower from the back. I would love to see it out in the sunlight...to get another look at the tank (pffff...like I'm an expert or something) and to get another look at the ride height/stance.

Side view, 3/4 front and 3/4 rear if you take requests! :smoke:

[tommycomfort]

Saturday Kaytlin, Sam and I took the wagon and 66 to the local SCCA novice/instructional auto-x day. Kaytlin had a blast in the wagon and the 66 was even more fun to drive than last year. I knew the added power and lighter weight would be noticeable, but I never thought it would be night and day, and it was... I was hoping to have pictures, but with Kaytlin and I driving and Sam working the cones it wasn't in the cards. Maybe one of the SCCA guys will come through with some.

Before going we had both cars aligned since they some suspension work done over the winter. We opted for more camber since we'll be thrashing them pretty hard this year. The one problem we identified as soon as we had the car back on the road was the manual brakes. I went with a stock GM 15/16" master cylinder and had great pedal, but crazy hard effort to bring it to a stop. So, after consulting the experts we decided to go with the Wilwood 7/8" bore master. I really wanted the all black one, but I was too cheap to splurge for the extra $40 so we went with the "natural" finish and black lid. Update soon on how well it works...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/DSC04264-1.jpg

I think I stated earlier that my brother who works for a rubber and gasket company was working on making real exhaust gaskets for our flanges. Here's the nearly completed die he made. He's coming down next weekend for birthdays and he should be bring the final product with him.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/IMG954048-1.jpg

[wiedemab]

Awesome - I'm glad the car did well in its first outing. I can't wait to see it run in a few weeks!