Some Great 2010 news and Project WarPath

[tazzz25906112]

https://www.pro-touring.com/gallery/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=29226


Happy New Year and may you all have a Healthy, prosperous 2010…….. I‘ve have had the good fortune of meeting, driving across America, and great honor in general of making some “Darn good friends” from this very board in 2009.

Celebrating 2010, these same people have started a loosely (and laughingly referred to) small group called the “Rat Pack”….. The “Rat Pack” as a core of it's members plan to utilize our cars and our good fortune to initiate a yearlong effort to raise money for the Alzheimer’s society at scheduled events across America…….
We are currently working with FM3 Marketing and the Alzheimer’s Society to setup a special fund and the necessary permissions to raise funds on their behalf, along with working in conjunction with their local chapters at event sites.

Please note that the above great people have agreed to donate, their time, their efforts, and seat time in their “very, very, cool vehicles” all to better assist the Alzheimer’s Society in fighting this horrid disease that haunts all in its path at their own expense!!!

It’s an honor to unveil the plans for the “RAT PACK” ,,,, along with our 2010 project “WarPath” to all our friends at Pro-touring.com..... Utilizing WarPath and my other cars to raise funds (along with “a personally guaranteed sub-fund”) will act as my own part of the front line effort. We (The RAT PACK) will attend events and I specifically will match dollar for dollar (to a max figure at each event) a total of 15,000usd over the course of 2010 season. I (and the RAT PACK) will do as much as we can to offer rides in vehicles at events (where possible and not in competition given insurance issues) to any pro-touring member that attends the event and agrees to donate funds in the efforts to eradicate this terrible disease….

There will soon be a new web site (currently under construction) at www.carbonkustoms (http://www.carbonkustoms/).com that will have a special “RAT PACK section" that will outline the schedule and the efforts on how you can join in a ride for the cure and we trust Larry will place a sticky here at Pro-touring for updates…

WarPath is a showcase platform for our future Carbon Fiber products that will be offered to the Pro-touring community at large. We have stylized the car to reflect our modern day road worthy interpretation of the infamous “1970 “Trans Am series” cars that many of us loved so much…

Carbon Kustoms will be approaching the project with a “super aggressive building schedule” and is striving to complete the car for the exciting new Pro-touring event “Face off in the Flat Lands” hosted by Baer Brakes and DSE….. Given the otherwise normally unrealistic build schedule, we plan to bring other cars to the event as well as fire up, debug and initiate an initial road test of WarPath in
the public eye….While clearly the lack of time to setup and otherwise debug the car will not be available, a far more important component will be,,,,, “Showcasing The First Stop in Raising Funds on this 2010 tour” so please try as you may to be there if possible….

Ben Hermance has been a real trooper and instrumental in the graphics of our new build and we thank him as always for his tireless efforts along with the great folks at Auto twirler, Baer Brakes, Chris Petris Inc., Pro-touring.com, FM3 Marketing, Keisler Engineering, Pontiac Enthusiast Magazine, Optima Batteries, Ride Tech, Rolland Racing, and RP Motor Sports just to name a few who have all played a major role in making this build a reality…. Future photos and updates will follow over the weeks to come as we work our way though the WarPath build.

Thanks, and we hope to see you all in the 2010 season at scheduled events….

The RAT PACK

[Bill Howell]

Cool Albert, I look forward to being part of this self named Rat Pack and seeing members across the country this year. I will be at every event possible and as most that know me already know, anyone can ride along.
Maybe we need a charter member list of the Rat Pack and a decal for our cars. Then, we can gain members as others step up and make decent trips in their cars.

[Paul_J]

Alzheimer's is a great cause. My Father has Lewy Bodies Dementia that is in the same group as Alzheimer's. It is not easy seeing my dad like this. Just a side note, his buddy at the home where he lives is the founder and President of of a company (will remain unnamed) that make lubricants for our industry. It is so expensive caring for an Alzheimer's patient and takes so much work.

Thanks you for what you and the "rat Pack" are doing.

[tazzz25906112]

Paul I'm sorry to hear about your father,,,, my father suffers from the disease as well. I know how hard it can be on the family members too my new friend and hopefully we can all make a small difference through our efforts.

Bill I agree the effort may just provide yet another excuse for board members to jump in their cars and meet each other from all across the country,,,,, Hey this sounds like the beginnings of future "Road Trip" LOL.....

[dropit69]

Awesome thing you are starting here Albert..my Grandmother that just passed in 09 ..she battled Dementia for about 4 years ..so hard to visit and see her like that..ill do anything i can to help out and will be at a few events for sure..if ya need help with anything just shout..!!

[tazzz25906112]

Darrin I walked the "dreaded halls" last night when I brought my dad back to the home after bringing to my house for a New Years Eve dinner,,, I hear you ..

This effort was hatched as a group (the Rat Pack) and I'm only one it's founding members however I "truly appreciate" your shout out!!!

This is exactly the "car guy" feeling this board is all about.... I feel privileged to be in a position to get to know more of you and thank Larry for his overall vision in creating Pro-touring.com and the friendships made here...I would love to have you join us at any events that work for you.....

The whole idea from the group has grown so fast,,,, we'll do our best to keep up as well .....

[wmhjr]

You mentioned Roland Racing. Are you using CV1 heads in this build?

[tazzz25906112]

You mentioned Roland Racing. Are you using CV1 heads in this build?

I am indeed planning to use Jim's heads in the build as I think they offer some interesting options. Jim seems to be a real gentleman and I think we're going to be very happy with the choice we've made as I think there is some real power potential to be made with the combination of CV-1 heads and his intake on a fuel injected pump gas stroker combo .... We're not looking to kill the dyno, we are however looking to produce consistently reliable pump gas power in the 630-650hp range that will hold up to some road course use and my right foot in general.... My engine builder tells me that my right foot tends to be like holding onto a pissed Rhino on a bad day so I guess we'll see LOL

[OLDFLM]

Class act all the way my friend! You know it already, but if there's ANYTHING I can do... just said the word!!

Love the rendering and can't wait to subscribe to the Warpath's build thread... and see it in person of course! :twothumbs

[CruizinKev]

looks awesome! can't wait see the project progress!

[tazzz25906112]

Ty thank you so very much my friend,,,,, I'll look forward to your active roll in the fund raiser this summer at events were possible in that extremely hot "Freedom Bird"..... BTW LOL We'll paint a few towns in Pontiac blue together this season buddy....

Kev, thanks man..... I won't disappoint you with the progress pic's as I plan to head over to the shop today and post some of the current body panel/s (plug work) being done for the Carbon Fiber panels already... I have been meeting with and discussing the build through out the holiday season with a host of people co-coordinating the timing elements on this aggressive build schedule...

[wmhjr]

I am indeed planning to use Jim's heads in the build as I think they offer some interesting options. Jim seems to be a real gentleman and I think we're going to be very happy with the choice we've made as I think there is some real power potential to be made with the combination of CV-1 heads and his intake on a fuel injected pump gas stroker combo .... We're not looking to kill the dyno, we are however looking to produce consistently reliable pump gas power in the 630-650hp range that will hold up to some road course use and my right foot in general.... My engine builder tells me that my right foot tends to be like holding onto a pissed Rhino on a bad day so I guess we'll see LOL

It'll be interesting to see. I've met Jim, and talked to him by phone as well. Seems like a great guy, with some good ideas. To be honest, I'm still not sold on the heads - I have issues with some of the design. Plus, if you have hood clearance issues and a tight engine bay the CV1s are a non-starter. My '66 would have required major hood modifications to start with, as well as likely needing to cut up my inner fenders. Maybe if more folks like you built them and we started seeing more results rather than speculation things will change. I'm currently making just under the power range you're talking and I'm using KRE D-Ports built and ported by SD. Right at 11.2:1 and it was real happy on the dyno with pump gas at 28 1/2 degrees of timing. Are you using a factory block, or are you going with an MR1 or IA2?

[tazzz25906112]

Agreed Jim is a great guy and I think your right all heads have one down side or another.... However my engine builder I think there is real potential in the design. We really like the idea of a canted valve and look forward to getting away from the shrouding issues associated with typical heads in the end run....

I'm waiting to hear about an Aluminum IA in the next day or two,,,, failing which it looks like I'll go with a factory block for the time being.... When All Pontiac releases the new Aluminum IA II's that they've been working on we'll move across.

The clearance is a non-issue on the WarPath build as we will have a factory sub-frame "highly modified" to accommodate the dry sump system we are looking at as well as moving the motor down and back within the car. The mods will include lighting the frame and adding a rack as well as ascetically wrapping the frame in Carbon Fiber...

With any luck we'd like to see the car come in at the mid to more likely high 2,800lbs+++ range as a first blush target...

[LeighP]

Awesome looking car....worthy cause, too...good luck to you guys, well done!

[tazzz25906112]

Thanks Leigh

[tazzz25906112]

Work has commenced on the fenders, hood, and doors for the Carbon Plugs for the WarPath Project.....

The panels started out looking "pretty darn nice" to start with,,,,, and then Pablo is a freak for laying the skim on and taking it down to "literally nothing" to create a mirror like strait panel surface...... After a quick epoxy prime he blocks the parts tirelessly and repetitively until he creates what I laughing call his wax look on a part. All this application and removal, block sanding etc has proven time in and time out to be the key to his incredible work,,, not to mention a healthy dose of talent LOL....

[Finch]

This is truly a great cause and one I am proud to be part of. Albert is as genuine as they come and will accomplish great things for our hobby as well as the fight against Alzheimer’s.

I for one really look forward to this year and all the great things the Rat Pack can contribute to.

Look out world because the Crazy Canadian is fired up.

[garickman]

Good luck with all you wish to acomplish

[tazzz25906112]

Wow,,,, Thanks Brian I'm honored to call you a friend and will do my best to live up that post.

You know what they say, whats life without challenge and with this great group people embracing the effort, we'll do our best to hit it out of the park Pal!!!!

[tazzz25906112]

Thanks garickman, we'll give it our best shot....

[Steve1968LS2]

Great cause.. let me know if I can help in any way.. wish it was a Camaro.. lol

Hey, I want to join that Rat Pack.. guess I need a car that runs first. ;)

[tazzz25906112]

No problems Steve,,,,, we'll make you an honorary member and who knows maybe I'll put you behind the wheel of my white 72RS Aluminum motor car (we're awaiting the new Aluminum block and bringing it back out bigger and nastier)....

Oh BTW I stand to be corrected,,,,, did I hear something about a certain Bad Penny in for some "very cool" fender mods by chance??????

[Steve1968LS2]

No problems Steve,,,,, we'll make you an honorary member and who knows maybe I'll put you behind the wheel of my white 72RS Aluminum motor car (we're awaiting the new Aluminum block and bringing it back out bigger and nastier)....

Oh BTW I stand to be corrected,,,,, did I hear something about a certain Bad Penny in for some "very cool" fender mods by chance??????

That's funny.. I'm building a new aluminum engine too! :)

Yea, modding the inner fenders though.. the paint is too nice to mess with the outers.

[tazzz25906112]

That's funny.. I'm building a new aluminum engine too! :)

Yea, modding the inner fenders though.. the paint is too nice to mess with the outers.

Agreed the paint looked great out at SEMA Steve.....
Tell me more about this new motor,,,, come on cough up the info pal LOL....
If Penny is still down for the beginning of the season I'll bring the white car to the "Face off in the Flat lands" as well as WarPath and we can try it out with the new motor out there bud....

[tazzz25906112]

I say it's official LOL.... Is it me or have you noticed quite a few new Firebirds (TA's and Formula's) in the works this winter???? I was just visiting over at the new members/projects section and saw two cool builds there and we have a couple in here too.....

Could this be the year of the Bird with Pontiac announcing the division closing down and popularity on the rise.... It would follow a typical GM Mgt. move of recent years, working against the demand curve when they have good historic product/s to offer....

[YancyJohns]

Albert, I love the design of WarPath. I furthermore like the fact your tying in pro-touring events w/ an Alzheimer’s charity. Nice one Albert!

[wmhjr]

I say it's official LOL.... Is it me or have you noticed quite a few new Firebirds (TA's and Formula's) in the works this winter???? I was just visiting over at the new members/projects section and saw two cool builds there and we have a couple in here too.....

Could this be the year of the Bird with Pontiac announcing the division closing down and popularity on the rise.... It would follow a typical GM Mgt. move of recent years, working against the demand curve when they have good historic product/s to offer....

Firebirds? Firebirds? You mean the sissy sister of the GTO?:poke:

Sorry - couldn't resist. Actually I love the early 2nd gen birds. I think the '70 front end is just plain menacing when done right. Amazing how the two most attractive front ends on F-Bodies IMHO are the '70-'73 bird and the '70-73 Camaro split bumper RS. To me, nothing before or since quite captures the cars as well as those two.

[cdoggy81]

Albert,
Congratulations on your noble cause. I am just now starting to deal with this issue with my grandmother & it is tough. Best wishes to all who have & are currently battling this with a family member or friend.

The car looks great & I can't wait to see more of it! 70-73 are the best years for the Firebird, hands down :) (https://www.pro-touring.com/forum/showthread.php?t=50475 ) :) Nice to see this thread in the Project as I originally heard about it at the PRI show last month. I would really like to know what all you plan on doing to it. BTW, was it a real TA? I got a little flack for chopping up my real 70 TA but it was too far gone & had no original drive-train left anyway. Keep us informed with updates!!!

[tazzz25906112]

Albert,
Congratulations on your noble cause. I am just now starting to deal with this issue with my grandmother & it is tough. Best wishes to all who have & are currently battling this with a family member or friend.

The car looks great & I can't wait to see more of it! 70-73 are the best years for the Firebird, hands down :) (https://www.pro-touring.com/forum/showthread.php?t=50475 ) :) Nice to see this thread in the Project as I originally heard about it at the PRI show last month. I would really like to know what all you plan on doing to it. BTW, was it a real TA? I got a little flack for chopping up my real 70 TA but it was too far gone & had no original drive-train left anyway. Keep us informed with updates!!!


Thanks Bud I always loved what you did with that car.... How does it perform????,,,, it's got to be awesome.

WarPath is a real TA and and we're finalizing some of the build on the fly given the competition time line (April 28 in Nebraska for first event Face Off In The Flat Lands) :hammer:


The things already cast in stone are Carbon body Panels Anvil/-Carbon Kustoms, a complete "Air Tech" suspension, Baer Brakes, and an incredible 6 speed Keisler T56 Dog Box transmission.....

[srh3trinity]

Are the CF panels going to be available for sale? Have you thought of building them with a bulge or flare?

As far as the cause, I think this is great. I am in medicine and it is very frustrating from our end to not be able to offer much in the way of treatment or cure for many illnesses and disease processes. I am sorry that you are going through this with your dad. Cherish the good days and know that taking care of a loved one is one of the best gifts you could ever give.

[Mr.VENGEANCE]

thats gonna be a bad ass car...

[cdoggy81]

Thanks Albert, but she ain't done yet...
I gave myself 2 years but it is really going to be more like 3-4. I'm very excited for you to have your car done by April 28th!
How is the "wheel" thing coming along?

[tazzz25906112]

The wheels are coming along slowly,,,,, still working the center section costs to bring them into line for the possibilities of doing a limited run....

I'll look forward to seeing some up to date shots of the car and getter out there in the future thrashing the cars together at an event...

[jackfrost]

what a great idea. I wish you guys all the luck in the world, as long as you post project updates! ;)

let me know if you need help with the website.

[tazzz25906112]

Jackfrost,, you have mail

[tazzz25906112]

Thought you all mite like to see what we're playing with for the back of WarPath,,, let me know what you think..
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[68byrd]

I have to say this thing is sexy as hell. If it looks anything close to the rendering its going to be amazing. I love the colors by the way. Great job. Also its really cool to hear about your program. Your doing a very nice thing. Keep it up!

[LeighP]

Yeah, looks darned fine...love the 2nd gen birds.... :)

[CruizinKev]

:twothumbs :drool:

[OLDFLM]

You KNOW I like it!!!! :1st:

[tazzz25906112]

Tonight I post with a sad & heavy heart some very bad news I received today,,,,, a good friend and part of the WarPath build team has passed.....

Bruce was a wise old school body guy that was quick with a joke and always brought a little levity to the room.... At 74 years of age he had more energy than most half his age and the wisdom to use it for all it was worth.....
God Bless you my good friend rest in peace buddy

[73lt4]

Sorry to hear about your friend. I lost two good car buddies last year, I miss them everytime I go out to the shop.:angel:

[tazzz25906112]

Thanks 73lt4 I appreciate what your saying....

[T_Raven]

Man the rendering is AMAZING. Can't wait to see this thing done.

[Happyfunballs]

My father-in-law passed away a year ago from a what seemed like a never ending battle with Alzheimer's. He was really into cars and we got along very well. It's a terrible disease and it was very tough watching him go through it. I appreciate what your doing Albert.

[tazzz25906112]

My father-in-law passed away a year ago from a what seemed like a never ending battle with Alzheimer's. He was really into cars and we got along very well. It's a terrible disease and it was very tough watching him go through it. I appreciate what your doing Albert.

Hi Rick sorry for the tarty late response here bud.... My condolences and we both know he's most likely in a better place now given the battle....We're going to do all we can to raise bread and hopefully help in some small way with funding research to end this terrible disease....If we hit a town near you in our 2010 tour, please come out and say Hi to the gang......

[tazzz25906112]

Thanks T Raven we're excited with the project too.....

[srh3trinity]

Albert,
Do you have any pics of any of your other 2nd gens to hold us over while you are making progress on WarPath? I have seen your sig on lateral-g and have also heard you reference other cars.

[tazzz25906112]

Albert,
Do you have any pics of any of your other 2nd gens to hold us over while you are making progress on WarPath? I have seen your sig on lateral-g and have also heard you reference other cars.

Sure sorry they aren't great as I spend all my time driving them and really should take more pic's,,,,, Oh well maybe this Spring.

my 70 Z clone with a 383 & 700R4
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/02/Blue70Zclone-1.jpg

One of my 70 Formula's
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/02/killboydragonphoto1acopycopy-1.jpg

My 72RS
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/01/whiteCamaro-1.jpg

My other 73TA
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/02/73tadraft2-1.jpg

I don't have a decent pic of my 1968 Eldorado with 51,000 miles,,,,,,man that's a sweet car.

I also own a 70 white on tan TA #'s project car as well as a 70 white Formula project car as far a s older cars go...
I bought my kids the following cars:

My oldest boy's Saleen.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/02/1-1.jpg

My youngest boy's custom S10 SS on air
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/02/3-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/02/4-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/02/5-1.jpg

[T_Raven]

I didn't know that green formula was yours. You've got great taste my friend. I'll add Toronto to my list of places I need to go lol.

[tazzz25906112]

LOL thanks T Raven,,,,, I really love that Formula too my friend.

[srh3trinity]

Thanks for posting. I thought the Green Formula was yours and I saw the white Camaro in the other thread. I didn't know that the White TA was yours. Very nice lineup.

[tazzz25906112]

Thanks srh3trinity,,,, I love them all and enjoy driving them every chance possible. The Green Formula has about 6,000 or more miles on it and it was just finished in late summer for the TA Nationals in Dayton. My wife and I plan to hit California again this winter and play with the White 73 TA while it is out there....

[NOT A TA]

Fine looking group of cars Albert!

[tazzz25906112]

Thanks John, the 14 car is looking hot as Hell lately too my friend....

[gto406]

Great looking suite of cars Albert, from a great guy, based in a great city (T-Dot)!

Best wishes,
Brian
'72 GTO.

[tazzz25906112]

Thanks Brian,,, and i agree it is an awesome city for those who haven't had the good fortune to visit/experience it...



Well gang I have some good news and bad news...... The project WarPath has had a few challenges along the way (the death of Bruce my deeply missed good friend/ helper/Body man/ and general supporter of WarPath) and now the latest....

The core shell we started to look to do the project out with came back from the media blaster surprisingly poor..... The floors look questionable in my opinion to base such a high quality build around..... This said we will be suffering a set back as I acquire a new shell that meets with my standards for a build...... This should not take to much time at all as I know of a couple of good shells and will purchase one promptly....

Now for the "Good News", I will replace that shell promptly and I have an important announcement...... All of the board members know, RP motor-sports (my very good friend, engine builder, and frankly key consultant on all of my builds,,, Rolando Presutto) Air Tech, Baer Brakes, Keisler Engineering and Anvil Auto are all on board with this project as it stands...

The latest news is we are hopefully finalizing the addition of another great piece to the puzzle of the WarPath build,,,, My new friend/ current business associate and Very Accomplished builder Chris Gonzale's of JCG Restorations is working on a proposal that would incorporate a JME Enterprises K section into a custom one off sub-frame for the WarPath Project...

This requirement of a new shell gave me cause to reflect and question the wisdom of my self imposed tight time line on the build.... That said, I have decided to step back for a breath of fresh air,,,,, re-group given my set backs and loss and start a fresh....
I will run my 72RS Camaro in the beginning of the season and focus on building "WarPath" with a refreshed vigor....

The build will be unveiled this year prior to or around the time of the Optima Challenge..... I will not compromise this build!!!!! WarPath, will represent the fruit of an incredibly talented teams effort to build a "truly cool Trans Am" that we all can be proud of...
Looking at the boards/builds we all know there is a faster cars out there somewhere,,,,,,,,,,, but "there will be only one WarPath and I promise it will be something you won't take lightly" and won't pass to quickly either BTW LOL !!!!

[Cris@JCG]

Albert- On behalf of JCG Restoration & Customs, we thank you for the opportunity to work on "PROJECT WARPATH".

I decided that we are going to do a quick solid model for the frame rails. I am fortunate that I found a GM DWG for the 2nd gen sub-frame that will allow us to make a frame jig.

Looking forward to the one off parts that we will be making for this project!!

[opnwide]

Don't forget the wheels! What's the status on those 18s?
Did that project also get put on hold?

thanks

[tazzz25906112]

Don't forget the wheels! What's the status on those 18s?
Did that project also get put on hold?

thanks

We've been hit with a few bits of bad luck but please do not miss-understand this project is far from on hold..... While the shell turned out to be an unsatisfactory candidate after media blasting, my commitment to the project has not wavered. I will replace the shell (hopefully this week) as I have been on the phone and utilizing my contacts both here in Canada and also in the States all weekend.

The wheels have been discussed with the engineers and that part of the project & scheduling remains unaltered,,,, I'm awaiting a response from my engineer and will advise all when I have solid information as to the possibilities and the probablities of limited production.

All other aspects of the build are proceeding and I felt it important to slow things down a little to ensure that compromise was a part of the build....

An example is I wanted to run an IA II Aluminum after market Pontiac block in the build,,,, but given the April dead line I didn't. That subject may now be revisited as Bob from All Pontiac indicated that they are trying to do a pour on fresh blocks this Spring.... As it stands, my engine builder RP Motor-sports will be building a stroker motor based on a 400 Pontiac block.

Have no Fear, WarPath will be built this year and will do Ben's Rendering justice!!!!
Thanks
Albert

[Jeffrotech]

One of my 70 Formula's
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/02/killboydragonphoto1acopycopy-1.jpg


WHAT green is that??? It's not Verodo... and not Palisade...

It looks great.

[tazzz25906112]

Hi Jeff, Pontiac called it 1970 Key Lime Green and I believe Chevy called it code 43 Citrus Green..... My painter applied it over a white epoxy primer and given the paint is a low cover paint a brighter appearance was achieved.... Hope that helps bud.

[BrianE]

VERY COOL BUILD!!!! I would love to visit Toronto, one of these days. My favorite band, RUSH is from there!!!

[tazzz25906112]

LOL Brian, I meet the guys from the band (Rush) on many occasions as one of the band members father use to have a boat at a Marina my family owned years ago.... Those we some fun times as we had Gordon Lightfoot and Kim Mitchel there as well back then. Alfie Zappa Costa and the Good Brothers use to come up as well once in a while ....

One of my employees use to captain a boat for Bill Ballard and he had the Stones on board one time when he came in for gas,,,, man that place really was crazy back then.....Richards looked like the walking dead that day.

[syborg tt]

Great Project if you would like a set of hood pins for the project we would be more then happy to help

[tazzz25906112]

Well gang I've been playing things very close to my chest over the last few weeks as there are a host of really cool and positive developments that have occurred with the build....

Firstly we're continuing to grow the "WarPath development & build out family" and have some exciting news..... A major long term player in the US Military composite contract field has offered to consult on the WarPath project and all composite efforts we are involved with at Carbon Kustoms Ltd....

Initial conversations indicate that they will be assisting in designing & providing the laminate schedules & materials for the WarPath Project. We'll update this information with further detail as it becomes available.

Some of the discussions include support in the design engineered materials of the center sections on the three peice Honeycomb style wheel centers... These centers have been a major exhaustive effort for me to date and I welcome the new support with open arms... Hopefully the high level of expertise this company offers will round out the knowledge base required and complete network required to make these rims a reality for others too (and no I still have no idea yet on potential costs yet LOL)...

Secondly, Chris from JCG will be making a "Major announcement" about the one off custom WarPath sub-frame and it's development to date.... I am "Very Excited" about the efforts and hard work he has put into the project and will let him share the exciting updates with you all when he is ready (hopefully mid to later next week).....

Thirdly, given all the weight conscious efforts we have made on the project we are reviewing the drive line in Warpath and will have some crazy information to share by early next week..... Stay tuned because this going to be off the Hook!!!!!!!

I apologize for all the teasing but I just want to have my ducks in order so to speak,,,, I will be far less cryptic in days ahead I promise and I will have pictures to share shortly,,,,, Trust me it'll be worth the wait too ;-)

We are attempting to be exhaustive in our efforts to design and build high quality industry standard parts and hope the WarPath will showcase them proudly.

[tazzz25906112]

Great Project if you would like a set of hood pins for the project we would be more then happy to help

While I really appreciate the offer I have otherwise committed the pins Syborg,,, however I want to thank you very much for the offer....

[Jeffrotech]

Albert,
That's some exciting new for your project - congrats!

Thanks for the info on the green. My '72 GTO will get some sort of era-appropriate green - so I appreciate it!

AND... composite honeycomes??? Too cool. Considering how long-term my GTO project has been these might be worth waiting around for. I was considering Wheel Vintiques version, but they really lacked the demension that the originals had (and didn't seem worth the price since they were just a 'flat' wheel).

Good luck... and I'll be WATCHING.

[Cris@JCG]

Albert we have been working hard on getting these frame rails done for Warpath!! JME Enterprises will be paying us a visit in the next couple of weeks so that we can get his Pro Series suspension between the second gen frame rails.. I figured I would tease you with some of the results we have so far :cheers:


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/02/7081SubframeAssembly1-1.jpg

[tazzz25906112]

:cheers::cheers: that is a tease LOL..... I have a few more things to throw into the mix as well my good buddy,,,, we've had an offer this afternoon that will take the incredible piece your building with the JME section and step it up another notch as if that was possible ;-).....

An unnamed (for now) defense contractor for the US Military has offer to consult with us on the sub-frame and show us some available techniques & technologies for lighting and strengthening the structure even more if you can imagine... Call me bud,,, we've got a lot to discuss.....

[Cris@JCG]

Julio from JME Enterprises stopped by the shop today & dropped off a corner of his front suspension so that we can get this fitted in the second gen frame rails we are designing.. This is a real trick looking front suspension!! Lots of billet :razz:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/P3100057-1.jpg

[srh3trinity]

That is mechanical art! Just beautiful!

[mbrunson427]

um, wow

[ChevelleNV]

thats sick!

[tazzz25906112]

Looks great Chris!!!

I can't wait to see how this car is going to handle with this awesome sub-frame not to mention the eye candy it's going to represent within the build.

Please thank Julio for coming up and working with us and let him know I'll look forward to finally meeting him at the "Run to the Coast" event in a few weeks...

[WS6]

Albert, sorry to stray from the thread but where can I and everyone else find pictures of your green formula? That's an amazing looking machine.

Glad to hear of the positive changes coming to Warpath. It'll be worth the wait. Just don't make us wait too long, lol :)

[tazzz25906112]

LOL Trey thanks for the interest in both cars...... You'll be happy to know that there are some fresh pic's of the Formula in the current issue of "High Performance Pontiac" magazine.... I was contacted by a friend to tell me last night that the feature they shot back at the "Trans Am Nationals" is currently being featured/showcased as the "Mean Green Machine" article.

There is so much development work being done on the WarPath Project its scary,,,, that said I hope to start posting shortly with things for all to see as they come together.

The Carbon Composite panel molds are in full production and I hope to have the first (of many) Carbon Composite hoods to debut here on the board within a few weeks... If all goes well I will ship the hood to California to run on my white 73TA for the "Run To The Coast" event my good buddy Bill Howell is running...

Thanks again for the interest and we can both look forward to seeing the article on the green car soon I hope....


PS,,, your project is looking great Trey,,,,, & I will be making a very similar floor modification to plug for the composite floor pan for the T56 tranny in WarPath soon as well bud.....

[68byrd]

I just got my issue of High Performance Pontiac in the mail. Great looking spread! I thought the car looked familiar.

[tazzz25906112]

thanks 68byrd

[tazzz25906112]

Well it's time for a little more updated info on the project I think so here we go...

We have been very busy working on the Project and have the trunk floor out of the car as we are modifying that area of the car as well. Give the fact that WarPath is now going to be running a 533ci injected aluminum pump gas motor we felt it was important to consider gas tank volume for those long cruises with the Rat Pack (cause you know this is not going to be a trailer queen car)..

That said we have ordered a new complete floor pan and we are re-working that pan to take approximately 4" out of the depth of the center drop to allow for a much larger custom made fuel tank to placed between the rails. We have also smoothed the back of the floor section by removing the area where the traditional fuel neck would be so that the floor area carries strait back to the rear panel. Keeping safety in mine and adding a little over kill we decided to rebuild the lower section of the tail panel completely and have incorporated a cross member from frame to frame rail for added impact protection and boxing of the rear frame rails (not that much of a deal,,,, but just a little extra touch as seen)....The lower tail panel has been re-created in a heaver gauge and we intend to smooth it into the rear quarters as well

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/2210mar14-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/1210mar14-1.jpg

Note the 1" HSS in the second pic is the support we tacked in place while making the mod's to prevent twisting of the rear and not part of what the described mod's above...

The mini tubs will follow this work once the trunk floor has been re-shaped and installed in the car..... Some of the delays currently experienced are my fault as I'm tending to be undecided as to what the installed floor material will be.... I can't decide if I want to just fabricate the floor panel and install it,,, or mock the panel in place once all the mods are done and then send it off to fabricate a Carbon Composite floor that would be lighter & stronger that stock but set the project back by a few weeks minimum... So far steel is winning the internal mind debate LOL...

I'll let Cris update you all on the sub-frame as things are progressing nicely down in Oxinard and the creative juices have been flowing....

Our good friends over at Keisler Engineering are working on the T56 Dog Box 6 speed Transmission and you know Shafi will be creating an incredible piece for the WarPath so standby for updates from the man himself as I'm sure he'll want to run some of the spec's on the Keisler design transmission for WarPath

Our good friend Chris Petris will be installing a new "Link Fuel injection system" on the WarPath and I'm sure he'll be chiming in over the next few weeks with updates on the system and plans for WarPath.

Just a quick note to make things official,,,, WarPath will be running a three peice rims with a Carbon Composite center section.... We are developing the wheel with engineers and composite experts that assure us the wheel will not only be substantially lighter than aluminum, but will also be stronger than steel....

Lets just say I asked the engineer to create overkill in the strength department as it's my sorry tail doing the testing on the wheel ROFLMAO.... I figure hey, if it can pass my kind of abuse, it'll be a cake walk for the rest of you guys LOL...

[tazzz25906112]

I'm finally back in town and have been playing with a test Carbon & Glass hood out of the mold.... While the Hood is far from perfect (hand laid not vacuum bagged combined with a seem that I don't like that will not be in the production hoods) I thought I'd share it with you all.

It is my intent to discuss this hood with Matt from Anvil Auto and possibly auction it off to raise 100% of the money for Alzheimer's if you all think it's a good idea also?????....

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/04/WhiteCarbhonTAhood-1.jpg

As stated it's not perfect, but it's not an eye swore either and for someone to have the boasting rights to say they owned the first hood pulled from the molds might be appealing....

It should work well on any 73 Cameo white Trans Am as it was painted in Cameo White to test the "WarPath Light" graphics on the hood....

If we decide to sell the first hood like this and it is bid over $1,000USD I will have my printer prepare a set of decals in silver and mock Carbon (substitute to the Dark and light blue TA originals for the fenders, shaker, and rear wing) so that a theme can be carried on your car.

I hope you like what you see and look forward to your impute and thoughts about the possibly selling it for a good cause....

[James OLC]

I think that is a great idea Albert!

When you decide if that is what you are going to do, let us all know. I don't have a second gen TA but I would be all about supporting a great cause!

[tazzz25906112]

Thanks James it's appreciated......

I'll let everyone know after speaking with my partner Matt (certainly want his impute as we're working together in a united Anvil/Carbon Kustoms retail front/effort on all the 2nd Gen F-body parts among other products being discussed)

[cdoggy81]

good stuff!!! :)

[Cris@JCG]

We all know that second gen's have some pretty damm heavy doors & creates door sage which cause pins to wear out.. Well.. We decided to doo some billet door hinges for second gen's with some improvements!! We are elimnating the factory detent system on the hinge & upgrading to late model chevy truck system detents that mount on the door jams.. Stainless pins with oil impregnated bronze bushings a bit stronger than the factory one's
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/06/70BilletHingeAssembly2JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/06/70BilletHingeAssembly-1.jpg

[Finch]

We all know that second gen's have some pretty damm heavy doors & creates door sage which cause pins to wear out.. Well.. We decided to doo some billet door hinges for second gen's with some improvements!! We are elimnating the factory detent system on the hinge & upgrading to late model chevy truck system detents that mount on the door jams.. Stainless pins with oil impregnated bronze bushings a bit stronger than the factory one's
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/06/70BilletHingeAssembly2JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/06/70BilletHingeAssembly-1.jpg


Looks nice Cris, shoot me over some first articles and we will do some real world testing for ya.

[garickman]

I want those!

[cpd004]

Me too!

[Cris@JCG]

Thanks Brian! You are going to have to drive to the West Coast to fit up the first articles!! LOL


Looks nice Cris, shoot me over some first articles and we will do some real world testing for ya.

[Doug1]

Thanks Brian! You are going to have to drive to the West Coast to fit up the first articles!! LOL

I'm in for a set! Doing a 2nd Gen TA build right now. I have added those to the must have list! LOL

[BonzoHansen]

Neat, the hinges do take a beating. Did anyone ever see the greaseable kit this guy (http://andyz28.com/3rdGen/greaseinfo.html) makes for 3rd gens? On the surface seems like a good idea.

[LeighP]

I'm in for a set! Doing a 2nd Gen TA build right now. I have added those to the must have list! LOL

Same here...would love a set for my 71 Bird.

[Finch]

As the title states I am now knee deep into a second gen Pontiac for my great friend Albert (The Crazy Canadian) Melchior.

Albert packed up the car last weekend and headed south of the border down to my house in Nashville. We had a great few days catching up and eating good then it was time to get to work.

The plan at this point is to have the car completed and shaken down in time for RTTC 2011. We looked at SEMA but decided against the thrash as it was just not worth taking the chance of having a car come out that was not at the level of quality and performance we like to shoot for.

We jumped head first into it starting with the installation of the DSE tubs to clear the 335 tires then followed that up with a new rear seat back riser. Once that was all solid we cut out the floor and installed in a new 1 piece unit and fully welded all the seams under the length of the car.


https://www.pro-touring.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=40200&stc=1&d=1283228037

https://www.pro-touring.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=40201&stc=1&d=1283228037

https://www.pro-touring.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=40202&stc=1&d=1283228037


https://www.pro-touring.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=40203&stc=1&d=1283228037

https://www.pro-touring.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=40204&stc=1&d=1283228037

Tomorrow we will cut out the entire firewall and toe kick and replace it with a new 1 piece unit. Next up will be the subframe connectors followed up with the initial mock up of the engine and trans into the front sub frame. Those updates will be coming soon so keep an eye on this thread as things should start moving much faster now.........


I did want to show off the very first upper cowl in Carbon Fiber that was produced by Carbon Kustoms. One look at this piece and I knew I had to have one for my car. One quick call by my good buddy and mine is now in the works for old yeller.

This is a very nice piece and the fitment is great. We will use some Plexus structural adhesive to bond it to the car as it replaces the upper cowl not just overlay it.


https://www.pro-touring.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=40196&stc=1&d=1283227737

https://www.pro-touring.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=40197&stc=1&d=1283227737



https://www.pro-touring.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=40198&stc=1&d=1283227737

[MrQuick]

I'm finally back in town and have been playing with a test Carbon & Glass hood out of the mold.... While the Hood is far from perfect (hand laid not vacuum bagged combined with a seem that I don't like that will not be in the production hoods) I thought I'd share it with you all.

It is my intent to discuss this hood with Matt from Anvil Auto and possibly auction it off to raise 100% of the money for Alzheimer's if you all think it's a good idea also?????....

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/04/WhiteCarbhonTAhood-1.jpg

As stated it's not perfect, but it's not an eye swore either and for someone to have the boasting rights to say they owned the first hood pulled from the molds might be appealing....

It should work well on any 73 Cameo white Trans Am as it was painted in Cameo White to test the "WarPath Light" graphics on the hood....

If we decide to sell the first hood like this and it is bid over $1,000USD I will have my printer prepare a set of decals in silver and mock Carbon (substitute to the Dark and light blue TA originals for the fenders, shaker, and rear wing) so that a theme can be carried on your car.

I hope you like what you see and look forward to your impute and thoughts about the possibly selling it for a good cause....
love the idea, and would paint my car white just to use it.


vince

[tazzz25906112]

Thanks Vince, with all that has been going on here at home with my father and his disease I really have been negligent about posting and updating...

First things first,,,,, I'd like to thank my "good friend" Brian for stepping up and dealing with the WarPath Project... Passing off a build of this caliber is a mentally trying thing to do,,,,, however, when you have an extremely talented builder and buddy like Brian it makes it a whole lot easier... Brian you are something else and thank you for rising to challenge as I'm sure the outcome of the car will be outstanding in your hands...

Second- I apologize to the board (and Vince) as the Hood was auctioned off last Saturday in Tipp city at the Trans Am Nationals.. We displayed WarPath light and raised a few dollars in the process for the Children's Wish Foundation and a Tennessee Volunteer fire department and this past weekend down in Dayton.

Third- As stated by Brian,,, The RTTC will be where we unveil WarPath and I look forward to seeing my California pro-touring friends at the second annual event.... The Rat Pack spear heads this event and as seen last year it sure a good time for all....
We are all blessed with good fortune to have events like these and while SEMA is a grand daddy, and the Optima is awesome, Brian and I felt that by taking a little more time to make sure the build was right was the key....

Releasing the car at the RTTC makes sense, however it also makes a specific point of further paying homage to the efforts of so many people put into organizing events of this caliber,,, thank you "all" and especially my good buddies from the Rat Pack for their continued efforts in bringing us the second annual RTTC event.

[srh3trinity]

Well, I had no doubts that this was going to be a nice build with some great parts, but we have all seen what Finch is capable of.

[Finch]

The focus tonight was to cut out the old patched up firewall and install a new 1 piece unit. Was a smooth job and the new piece fit very well. I have been impressed with the quality of the parts so far.

For those interested this took about 4 hours.....

https://www.pro-touring.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=40226&stc=1&d=1283314491

https://www.pro-touring.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=40227&stc=1&d=1283314491

https://www.pro-touring.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=40228&stc=1&d=1283314491


https://www.pro-touring.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=40229&stc=1&d=1283314491

[796spdbu]

Looking good Brian. It has come a long way since I last saw it at Albert's.

[Finch]

Next up will be fitting the engine and trans along with the new subframe into the car to see how much of the pretty new firewall has to come back out to make room.

This little gem showed up a few days ago from my friend Jake at Jakes Rod Shop. Very nice looking piece and should give us the room needed for the big Pontiac.

Albert, I will be calling you tomorrow to discuss the next round of parts I need. The new pile is getting smaller fast so lets rock......

https://www.pro-touring.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=40232&stc=1&d=1283315149


https://www.pro-touring.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=40233&stc=1&d=1283315149

[OLDFLM]

LOVE that you're building this now my friend!! :cheers:

Several great 70-73 Firebird/Trans Am builds going all at the same time... all with a different flavor and direction... but I'm sure the Rat Pack team will knock this one out of the park!!

Subscribed and anxiously watching for updates!!!

[Doug1]

Who produces the firewall? That would be worth having!

[tazzz25906112]

Doug it is sold by Goldleaf in Canada,,, I believe they are "Dynacorn" in the USA

[hotrdblder]

albert/brian awesome looking project, and there's no doubt your in good hands with brian at the helm. Can't wait to see this car finished. Glad to be a part of it.
jake

[tazzz25906112]

Thanks Jake, Brian is gaining a head of steam and I'm sure we'll all be blown away with his continued efforts...

I appreciated the prompt delivery and efforts you brought to sub-frame for the project and look forward to trying the car on for size so to speak when completed....

[hotwheels]

With Brian on the job, we should really see some progress now!

[motorcitythreads]

Hi everyone, my name is Kris and I won the auction for the carbon fiber hood at Nationals. I like it so much I bought a car to build just to put it on. I bought a 64000 mile 72 Firebird. I will be posting a new thread to show progress of it. Thanks Albert it was great meeting you and really appreciate your donating the hood.

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

[ProdigyCustoms]

Looks like you have a few projects there. I do a few Trans Ams myself as a side business. If we can help with the Pro Tour stuff let us know

[Finch]

After taking 3 weeks off to repaint my car, then 2 weeks off for SEMA, and another 2 weeks getting over the nasty bug I caught just before Optima I am finally back on the car.

Slid the new Keisler 6 speed behind the 535 ci aluminum monster and threw it between the rails. There was plenty of room in the subframe but I wanted to set it back so out came the plasma to hack up the new firewall.

I have most of the metal back in now so will post up some more pic's soon.



423994239842400424014240242403

[carbuff]

That subframe/suspension looks familiar. :) I hope to not do THAT much chopping on my firewall and floor... I'll know in a few weeks...

[tazzz25906112]

You shouldn't have to Bryan,,, we chose to move it back considerably given our objectives and the motor we selected for the build....

[carbuff]

Oh yeah, I understand... I do expect that I'll be doing some cutting on the tranny tunnel, but I'm gonna hit it a few times with a hammer first to see if I can get it to clear before pulling out the plasma! :)

[Cris@JCG]

Brian- looks like you can slide the engine one more inch back! LOL.. Looking good... can't wait to see it done!

Albert- I want to ride shoot gun with you @ least once in this beast Brian is building you! Or you can just toss me the keys & let me take it for a spin!


After taking 3 weeks off to repaint my car, then 2 weeks off for SEMA, and another 2 weeks getting over the nasty bug I caught just before Optima I am finally back on the car.

Slid the new Keisler 6 speed behind the 535 ci aluminum monster and threw it between the rails. There was plenty of room in the subframe but I wanted to set it back so out came the plasma to hack up the new firewall.

I have most of the metal back in now so will post up some more pic's soon.



423994239842400424014240242403

[RJ66]

Lookin' good Brian, can't wait to see the final product.

[tazzz25906112]

Hi everyone, my name is Kris and I won the auction for the carbon fiber hood at Nationals. I like it so much I bought a car to build just to put it on. I bought a 64000 mile 72 Firebird. I will be posting a new thread to show progress of it. Thanks Albert it was great meeting you and really appreciate your donating the hood.

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

Hi Kris it was great meeting you too bud...... That looks like a heck of a nice little car you have there and I'm sure you'll build a great looking car
that we'll all look forward to seeing at some of the pro-touring events in the future.....
All the best and keep in touch,
Albert

[796spdbu]

Nice work Brian!

[Finch]

Now that we have the engine set back where we want it was time to replace all the metal we cut out. Firewall and inner cowl is all back together as well as a new tunnel.

Since we eliminated the body mounts and want nothing hanging below the subframe rails an extra tall tunnel was required. Also the shifter now comes through the center of the main floor brace so I boxed it back in with 3/16 1x1 tubing to add some structure back in.




42542425414254042543425394254442545

[wellis77]

Your progress is looking good Brian. I'm looking forward to seeing this one finished!

[Finch]

For this project I am going to tie the cage into the inner structure of the car as much as possible. This will serve two purposes, for one it will increase the rigidity of the entire car and second it will disappear behind the interior of the car for insurance purposes up North

I started on the main hoop which was not an easy task keeping it as a single piece. Ratchet straps and pry bars were my friend. The next pieces will be the rear bars which also will be imbedded into the inner structure and fully welded. More than likely I will have to cut sections from the roof skin to be able to tig all the way around the front and rear bars but that is the way it goes. After all it is just metal....

42783427824278142780

[tazzz25906112]

The Doctors orders buddy,,, looking real good...

[Finch]

Have not had much time to post updates but work has been progressing. The cage is all bent and just needs the final welds on the joints to be complete. I also fitted the new Moser floater into the car and have the mounts tacked in waiting for final burn in.

Majority of the fab work is complete and moving into the body/paint stage now.........


43287432884328943290432914329243293

[tazzz25906112]

Looking great Brian,,,, I'll see you soon buddy.

[srh3trinity]

Great fab work. I would like a cage that tight in my project, looks great.

[tazzz25906112]

Thanks Stephen, Brian is really showcasing just how talented he truly is....

[Cris@JCG]

Looking good Brian!

[454bug]

EXCELLENT work fitting that cage so tight Brian!! I see where you made a comment about "insurance" concerns up North... Do they have problems with rollcages on a streetcar? Will you have any door bars or a seat bar behind the front seats?

I can't wait to see this one complete! Great work and great cause!

[Doug1]

That is very cool. You do great work.

I don't know much about cage certification so can you tell me if that cage will certify to a specific class or is that something that isn't a concern since it is not primarily a drag car?

[DFRESH]

Can't beleive I didn't find this thread till now---Just went through the whole thing--amazing. That's a serious motor in that thing---and with the AutoCross Superhero on it--it's sure to be a killer. Congrats Albert---that thing is going to be a beast in the coolest way possible. So, RTTC then? LOL--they don't call Finch a superhero for nothing---up, up and away!----(I mean your money, not Brian)

Doug

[tazzz25906112]

Can't beleive I didn't find this thread till now---Just went through the whole thing--amazing. That's a serious motor in that thing---and with the AutoCross Superhero on it--it's sure to be a killer. Congrats Albert---that thing is going to be a beast in the coolest way possible. So, RTTC then? LOL--they don't call Finch a superhero for nothing---up, up and away!----(I mean your money, not Brian)

Doug


Thanks Doug,,
Buddy you know Brian takes no hostages and he is doing a super job of finishing what I was unable to do given my family situation when I passed the project on to him.... He will exceed what I would have done likely and I can't begin to tell you how anxious I am to try driving this beast myself.... Brain will share the driving experiences with me in this car over the next season and I hope to see him drive the car at the Optima because I think it would be super cool to see what he could do with it on a real road course taking things to the edge...

The money humm,,, well lets just see if we can take some of that burn and turn it into raised money for charity in some way starting with RTTC2,,,,,that my friend would make this a good New Year with money well spent...

[Finch]

The car is now a roller and the engine is set in with the new front plate. This is ride height and should lay frame once the shockwaves are emptied


Pic's are a little hazy as there was some major work happening on the Bone. You can read about that in the other build thread.....

434294343043431

[tazzz25906112]

Keeping the pace up we pulled the first door skins and inner door structures out of the molds today.... We'll be assembling these and shipping them off to Brian over the next few days.

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

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

[srh3trinity]

You need somebody to do some beta testing on those doors? My doors are pretty dinged up and a little heavy to boot.

[tazzz25906112]

LOL Stephen, you I know this Crazy Canadian with a few TA's that is just up to the job... Go figure ha,,, LOL thanks bud...

[racedaddy]

If you need to try your skills on some 63 Fairlane parts I'll throw my hat in the ring :)

[whayden2003]

Hey what year range are those doors going to fit.

[whayden2003]

And is the recess for the outer handle removeable from the mold or is it part of it.

[Doug1]

That is seriously looking good! Those carbon doors ought to save quite a bit of weight.

[tazzz25906112]

-Race Daddy we'll call you first if we do ;-)
-Sorry Wes the doors are not available to the public just yet as we're working the internal crash bar details out and the recess is in the molds and they're generic 70-81....
-Thanks Doug it should save approximately 60lbs a side very conservatively when dressed,,, I'll post when we figure out exactly how much the doors weigh dressed as this is the first set.....

[BonzoHansen]

So what's left? When do you start the CF shell? lol

[whayden2003]

Crash bars. We don't need no stinkin crash bars. But seriously I could use just the outer panel and 3M panel bond it to my inner shell.

[tazzz25906112]

-LOL Scott,,,, a little Birdie told me to watch out for a "very interesting" build in 2012 is all I'm gonna say for now ;-)...

-Na Wes, that'll cost as much as a full door cause that's the way we sell them when they're ready bud ;-)

[whayden2003]

Had to give it a shot o well. Any way they look great just getting to exicted need to calm down at work today. Just glad the TA's are getting some attention in the sea of slowmaro's. Ha ha. Also glad I am not guite ready to start my project as of yet so the parts will catch up with me.

[WS6]

Man I want that for a ride height. How much travel do you expect the suspension will have at that height? Any idea what the frame rails are from the ground at that height? It looks so good.

[tazzz25906112]

LOL np Wes I'd be trying the same bud.... and yep we'll be ready when you are all things equal my friend.

Trey, I'm going to have to differ that question to Brian as I'm seeing this from a distance too...

[ccm399]

Man I want that for a ride height. How much travel do you expect the suspension will have at that height? Any idea what the frame rails are from the ground at that height? It looks so good.

+1 I would like to know where the rocker height is in those pics.

Chris

[sovain]

will you be making those carbon doors for the sec gen camaro in the near future?
i`m in love with that cage set-up!

[tazzz25906112]

Sovain yes we will be doing the doors at some point this year most likely.... Fenders will be the first Camaro item we are working with Anvil on and the doors should naturally follow along with a host of other 2nd gen Camaro parts...

[Ishmael]

I used to want to do a straight restoration on my son's car but after following along here I'm not so sure anymore. Holy, carbon fiber doors. This car is going to be nuts.

[tommycomfort]

Wow! Albert, that is going to be one unbelievable ride. Not exactly sure how I have missed this build until now, but it sure is looking good. I did get to see the car in person the night before we headed out for SEMA/OUSCI, but I never thought about searching for the build thread. Like others have said, I can't wait to see it complete. It's definitely in good hands!
Tom

[PonchoJohn]

Albert, are the door going to be fully functional- window glass, regulators, lock hardware, etc? If so, wow! You'll never wear out a 2nd gen door hinge again!

[tazzz25906112]

Yep the doors will be fully functional and the first set will (as time playing a factor) have a steeel crash bar in them..... However as we finish the development and testing on the doors it is planned to have a composite impact/crash beam in the door that will serious drop the weight even further.... We'll be placing more door info up in the coming days/weeks.....

[LeighP]

Composite crash bar...wow, cool stuff!

[Paul_J]

Alzheimer's is a great cause. My Father has Lewy Bodies Dementia that is in the same group as Alzheimer's. It is not easy seeing my dad like this. Just a side note, his buddy at the home where he lives is the founder and President of of a company (will remain unnamed) that make lubricants for our industry. It is so expensive caring for an Alzheimer's patient and takes so much work.

Thanks you for what you and the "rat Pack" are doing.

My Father passed away at 11:20pm Monday, March 14th. He will be missed.

[tazzz25906112]

Wow Paul, my condolences bud.... I have just returned from a major road trip and saw you posting this morning for the first time..... I know it's hard (lost my Dad November 11th) and it'll have a sting for quite some time yet but God bless him and and know he is in a better place now... The disease shows no mercy and has to be one of the hardest experiences a family as a unit can experience as it guts you and your loved ones one little piece at a time prior to taking them away.....

My thoughts will be with you,,, be strong..

[coolwelder62]

Albert,Bud this is going to be an amazing ride.Brian is doing some great work.Scott M.

[tazzz25906112]

Thanks Scott, Brian is a talented guy and I'm grateful my buddy is on this for me.....

[Finch]

It has been a while since any big updates but work has been progressing so here are a few new pics.

We have the drive train mostly complete with the recent addition of the aluminum Moser center section sporting some 3:50 gears and a tru-trac posi. The Ram dual disc clutch and the custom built Keisler driveline. For those who may not know it Shafi can have his guys whip you up a custom shaft in about 2 days that is a beautiful piece for a great price. I just got my 3rd one in so keep them in mind if you need something quick.

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[Finch]

Next up we started on the body work phase by taking the tub down to bare metal to shore up some of the previous repairs. Then we started on the CF pieces. We have assembled the first door with a crashbar and then glued the CF skin to the inner assembly. The fit is actually decent out of the box and Albert had the molds made just a tick larger to give us material to remove which is easier than the opposite.

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[RS_Customs]

Wow! Great looking Carbon parts! How much weight savings do you gain with all that?

Robert

[whayden2003]

yall are going to make me say dirty words.. that has got the be the baddest @$%#ing god#$%# thing it have ever saw. sorry

[tazzz25906112]

Great job and good to hear the panels fit so well buddy.... You know that's a load off my mind cause as you say making things fit a little smaller is easier that growing them in mold land....

[BonzoHansen]

Brian, did you push the whole motor and trans backwards a few inches? I haven't seen anyone have to totally cut that body brace before. How much of the floor did you have to cut above the trans?

oh yeah, panels look cool Albert. :)

[tazzz25906112]

Thanks Scott, and yes I believe Brian moved the motor back "substantially",,, Brian can clarify what it was as a total move when he gets a chance.....

[srh3trinity]

Those doors are impressive. Saving my bucks now. I think I am going to get my car together and rattle can it for a few years while I wait on my ship to come in and then start sending Albert some checks to put the car on a diet before it gets its real paint job.

[KUSI]

I agree with you Albert. When I was up there looking at your car the first thing I noticed was the engine setback and I would use "substantial" to describe it too. This thing has got the look of a Pro-Touring machine but the physics of a true race car going into the design. Great work from Finch on it...as usual. The roll cage is looking pretty trick too. I would go with "integrated" to describe that one. Congrats on the progress guys!

KUSI

[Doug1]

I agree with you Albert. When I was up there looking at your car the first thing I noticed was the engine setback and I would use "substantial" to describe it too. This thing has got the look of a Pro-Touring machine but the physics of a true race car going into the design. Great work from Finch on it...as usual. The roll cage is looking pretty trick too. I would go with "integrated" to describe that one. Congrats on the progress guys!

KUSI


Definitely one of the best builds going!

Are there any pics of the roll cage? I am really interested in seeing how it is done and what materials were used. We are trying to come up with something integrated with the Triple Threat car but the T-Tops really mess that up. I'd like to have something detachable for the tops but that wouldn't pass tech for a 9 second car on the strip.

I'd love to get some ideas on a cage though.

[tazzz25906112]

Doug you should set up a time with Brian and go see the car in person bud...... Brian is something else when it comes to ingenuity and he tucked this cage so well that we should be in a position to completely have the cage be blind once the interior is in the car (note: we will be fabricating a custom set of A-pillars and headliner surrounds then making molds off them for others to tuck their cages as well)......

[Riddler]

Albert it was a pleasure to meet you today. Wish I would of been able to speak to you longer or at least show you my build ni more detail.

Riddler

[tazzz25906112]

Like wise buddy,,, we'll catch up when I get back at the end of the month

[ModedCB2]

hey Doug. My Cobra II has T-tops and what I did was run the top-to-forward bars down the center so that when the Tops are out you don't have the dorky look of the bars on the sides. I don't drag race ever so I don't worry about NHRA rules and none of the open tracking I did before taking the car apart for a complete redo, never had specific rules about the top forward bars.

I the reincarnation, we are going to use the equiv of the required cage tubing but in oval and frame the T-top openings and are considering removable bars above the doors of some sort.

I would post pics, but the car is in storage in St. Louis & I am in Texas.

Rob

[tazzz25906112]

Well it's been a while and life, way too many other projects, and some charity efforts aside our efforts on the project will continue into 2012... My good friend and Master builder Brian Finch has just returned from holiday with his family,,,, has a ton of other things he could be doing and he decided to place a smile on my face instead.... Thank you Brian,,,, I know you've been buried in work and life's daily curves,,, this picture sure made my day... This New year is already off to a great start....

WarPath exhaust tucked OH so nice.........
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/01/WarPathphoto1-1.jpg

[coolwelder62]

Congrat's Albert Look's great.Brian sure does do some awesome fabrication.

[Doug1]

Very nice work. It won't be long now...

[tazzz25906112]

Rolland racing's CV-1 head is being utilized on my new motor in the "WarPath Light" build not to be confused with "WarPath".... Two cars (one yellow and one White)....

[coolwelder62]

I thhink Albert has a Firebird in every color.

[cdoggy81]

Albert, how are things going with this bad boy?

[garickman]

Any updates on this one??

[tazzz25906112]

Been on the road like crazy gang sorry..... The car is in final prime and we expect to paint it in the next couple of weeks.. I've been working with my vinyl for al the masks and Brian is awaiting some trim parts from me to double check for fit otherwise we're into the final stretch of the build..... Updates to follow in the coming weeks...

[Todd in Vancouver]

Very cool project and will enjoy watching the rest of this build. All this CF use is making me rethink my own build as I read through different threads. My ultimate goal is to drive my car accross Canada when done so hope to meet up with some other guys and see some other builds/events along the way. Love the second gens nothing looks better than a bird with HUGE tires and wheels.

[compos mentis]

Any updates Albert?

[tazzz25906112]

Skip Brian's been crazy busy with his job and hasn't ad garage time so we're waiting on paint and assembly at this point... I hope to visit soon then later pending schedules of both Brian and I.....

[compos mentis]

https://www.pro-touring.com/gallery/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=29226



Thanks for the update Albert.

Good to hear from the keeper of the PT '70-'73 T/A flame. :twothumbs: