67 Firebird re-birth

[67rstbkt]

I traded my 94 Z28 for a rusted out 67 Firebird about two years ago. Here's what I have done so far

The start:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/IMGP0477-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/IMGP0482-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/IMGP0478-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/01/IMGP0479-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/01/IMGP0480-1.jpg

[67rstbkt]

I made a dolly so that I could roll the car around and braced what was left before I started cutting off parts.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/01/ImportedPhotos00001-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/ImportedPhotos00004-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/ImportedPhotos00000-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/01/ImportedPhotos00010-1.jpg

[67rstbkt]

Here's what was removed
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/ImportedPhotos00011-1.jpg

Roof removed and metal sealed with rust bullet and zero rust
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/01/IMGP0973-1.jpg

Quarter panel fitment
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/01/IMGP0974-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/IMGP0981-1.jpg

Trunk floor prepped
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/01/IMGP1001-1.jpg

[67rstbkt]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/IMGP1000-1.jpg

Rear fitment
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/01/IMGP1042-1.jpg

Roof
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/IMGP1032-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/01/DSC_0058-1.jpg

I had to add some metal and metal filler to get this edge right
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/01/DSC_0059-1.jpg

Seam filled
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/01/DSC_0060-1.jpg

[67rstbkt]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/01/DSC_0063-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/01/DSC_0065-1.jpg

Rear welded together
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/01/DSC_0051-1.jpg

Some floor metal
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/01/DSC_0053-1.jpg

Quarter welded on
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/01/DSC_0049-1.jpg

[67rstbkt]

Here are some parts I've accumulated

Subframe; already converted to disc brakes and in better shape than the one I had
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/IMGP1037-1.jpg

Ford 9 inch
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/IMGP1039-1.jpg

Global west upper arms
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/01/DSC_0057-1.jpg

Viper T56
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/01/DSC_0055-1.jpg

[Mr.VENGEANCE]

get down with your bad self!

[67rstbkt]

Random photos

400 engine
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/01/DSC_0056-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/01/IMGP1007-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/IMGP1010-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/01/DSC_0054-1.jpg

[67rstbkt]

That pretty much brings me to my current state. The quarters, roof, and floors are almost all welded together. I need to finish up some minor metal work. I want to get this thing to be a roller this year and get some epoxy primer on it. I'll update with more as I get it done.

[67rstbkt]

get down with your bad self!

lol, Thanks :bananna2:

[gto406]

Looking really good 67rstbkt! Love the 1st-gen Birds, particularly the '67.

Two questions:
1. Are you keeping the Poncho motor?
2. How did you remove the lead-filler between quarter panel and roof, did you heat it out or just cut it (with the bad 1/4)?

Cheers,
Brian
'72 GTO.

[67rstbkt]

Looking really good 67rstbkt! Love the 1st-gen Birds, particularly the '67.

Two questions:
1. Are you keeping the Poncho motor?
2. How did you remove the lead-filler between quarter panel and roof, did you heat it out or just cut it (with the bad 1/4)?

Cheers,
Brian
'72 GTO.

Thanks for the compliment, to answer your questions; Yes, I am going to keep the Poncho motor. I'm thinking of going with a stroker kit and some Kaufmann heads if I can afford it.

I was trying to save the original roof, so I melted out the lead with one of those little torches they sell at home depot. It worked out really well. :cheers:

[68400BIRD]

Nice work on all of the panels. Looks very famaliar to what I have done so far. I'm not sure about you but after all of that welding and grinding you just have to walk away from it for a while. I plan on running my 400 motor with an overdrive tranny also. Keep the updates coming.

[BA.]

Like you said, it did look pretty rough when you started but you've got some mad skills there man. It's looking pretty damned fine so far.
Panel fitment is looking good and you've got some great parts lined up there! :cool:

[Motown 454]

very nice progress, it looks great.

[67rstbkt]

68400Bird: It definately helps to take a break every once in awhile, but then I come on here and see all the project threads and I'm back in the garage. I've been following your build as well, Nice work

Motown 454: Thanks

BA.: Thanks for the props. This is my first time doing such extensive bodywork. I'm just trying not to screw up too bad.

[CliffS]

Major props and some skill there!! Keep the updates coming. Subscribed.

[CruizinKev]

very nice project! good work over there :twothumbs

[cobraguy65]

Love the Birds. Mine is in the same shape rust wise. I'll be trying my hand at major body work as well. keep up the good work and thanks for sharing.

[rickpaw]

Looking good. Glad to see another 67 Firebird on here.

Tu

[subtlez28]

Nice project and good work!

I will say though, you southwest guys are spoiled... Rustbucket? Come to the rust-belt. I'll show you 4th gen firebirds with more rust!

[67rstbkt]

Nice project and good work!

I will say though, you southwest guys are spoiled... Rustbucket? Come to the rust-belt. I'll show you 4th gen firebirds with more rust!

Thank you.
I used to live on the east coast, so I know what you mean about all the rust. The previous owner/owners decided to fill the rust holes and body repairs with fiberglass and bondo. I did not not expect to have to replace so much, but I guess I should have looked more closely. Oh well, live and learn.....
I'm not exactly in the Southwest, either. Reno is much farther north, we actually get snow :seizure:

[67rstbkt]

Major props and some skill there!! Keep the updates coming. Subscribed.

Thanks and I will. I checked out your Firebird; looks good. I really like the hood :cheers:

rickpaw: Thanks; I was pleasantly surprised to find so many other firebird builds on this site.

cobraguy65: Thanks. I was a little overwhelmed at first, but decided to start cutting and grinding. It became easier as I continued fitting the metal.

CruizinKev: Thanks :cheers:

[67 Camaro]

Very Nice work with the Quarters and Roof, my buddy has a 69' and boy he is never happy with that multi piece bumber!! i'll keep checking your progress. hope to see more posts soon.

-Leon-

[67rstbkt]

Very Nice work with the Quarters and Roof, my buddy has a 69' and boy he is never happy with that multi piece bumber!! i'll keep checking your progress. hope to see more posts soon.

-Leon-

Thanks :seizure:I hear that the 67 is not that much easier to get right. I guess we'll see how it goes.

[67rstbkt]

Making a little progress. I decided to cut away the inner edge of the outer wheel houses so that I could cut and tuck the rear quarters in a bit (I did that before I set the quarters on). I'm hoping to stuff some 285's back there.

I started by laying down some thin masking tape to mark a straight line.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/01/IMGP1058-1.jpg

Then I cut straight lines with my airsaw every inch or so.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/01/IMGP1060-1.jpg

I was able to bend each section by hand and follow up with just a little hammering to get the edge to sit flat.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/01/IMGP1062-1.jpg

I then spot welded.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/01/IMGP1064-1.jpg

Cleaned up with some sanding discs and sprayed a light coat of Zero Rust.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/01/IMGP1066-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/01/IMGP1070-1.jpg

[67 ls1 vert]

Hey 67rstbkt,

How was the after market panels? Did you have a hard time making everything fit like it should?

[T_Raven]

Nice progress. I always like seeing picks of panel replacement

[67rstbkt]

Hey 67rstbkt,

How was the after market panels? Did you have a hard time making everything fit like it should?

They fit alright. The driver quarter sat almost 1/2" too high when I first set it on, but after cutting the bottom a little, I was able to get it to push down. The passenger side fit on with less hassle. The roof needed some trimming on the drip rail edges. Basically, I just installed,removed, tweaked, and installed until I liked how it fit together. I used self tapping sheet metal screws to hold everything together. When I was happy, I started welding, removed the screws, and welded in those holes as well.

[LSfan70s]

Subscribing! :kiss:

[Dalamar]

looking good :)

[67rstbkt]

Some updates:
Messing around with tire options....
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/IMGP1110-1.jpg
:machine::hand:

Here's the center section I spliced in from a Camaro. Definitely not perfect, but I'm still learning. Plus I inhaled too many paint fumes the day I did this.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/IMGP1096-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/IMGP1097-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/IMGP1100-1.jpg
And yes, I filled in the gaps with more weld.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/IMGP1101-1.jpg
USC all metal filler

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/IMGP1106-1.jpg

That's all for now. I'm working on cleaning up the underside. I should have that in epoxy primer and Raptor bed liner soon.

[CruizinKev]

looking good! :twothumbs

[gto406]

Nice project, will be following this build closely!

:twothumbs

Cheers,
Brian
'72 GTO.

[GM_muscle]

people must have run out of chevys. love that so many people are doing pontiacs. keep up the good work. you plan to keep the 400 in the car?

[67rstbkt]

people must have run out of chevys. love that so many people are doing pontiacs. keep up the good work. you plan to keep the 400 in the car?

Thanks, and yes I'm sticking with Pontiac. I decoded the motor and it's around a 1971 motor, so not original to the car although the car was an original 400. I'm going through my budget and options with it. I don't think I can afford the forged stroker kit ($2000) and the aluminum heads ($2,xxx), so I'm thinking of doing the stroker and ported stock type heads now. Hopefully, I can get going on the motor soon :drive:

gto406 and GM muscle: Thanks :)

[67rstbkt]

Some updates. I finished cleaning up the underside. I used Dupont epoxy primer and followed up with Raptor truck bed liner. I also got the sub-frame apart, cleaned up, and all seams welded solid. It's at the powdercoaters right now, I should be getting it back today. Here are the pics.....

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/04/IMGP1112-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/04/IMGP1113-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/04/IMGP1129-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/04/IMGP1131-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/04/IMGP1118-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/04/IMGP1119-1.jpg

[69fbodyproject]

I wouldnt be too worried about going to the Kaufman heads. On my fathers 68 Firdbird that has a 498 stroker pontiac in it they used Edlbrock heads and the car runs 11.0s on stock stlye suspension. Dont know if you need or want more.

[69fbodyproject]

Ive been following your build and it looks good and things seem to be progressing nicely. Keep up the good work.

[67rstbkt]

I wouldnt be too worried about going to the Kaufman heads. On my fathers 68 Firdbird that has a 498 stroker pontiac in it they used Edlbrock heads and the car runs 11.0s on stock stlye suspension. Dont know if you need or want more.

Nope, that's about where I want to be. I'm still considering my options and doing research. It's looking like I'll do the stroker and stick with iron heads. I really want to go aluminum, but I want to get this car closer to being done something in this next decade. I can always swap the heads later on.

[67rstbkt]

Ive been following your build and it looks good and things seem to be progressing nicely. Keep up the good work.


Thanks :bananna2:

[69fbodyproject]

Then it sounds like it will be a nasty street bruiser:) There is more left in the 498, but it is down to making the chassis work better. He is having a local shop install a set of caltracs, going to a slightly taller tire this year and has installed an alumunuim driveshaft. This car runs a Jerico 4 speed, 9" rear with 3.55 gears, four wheel disc brakes, weld rims, and mickey thompson street slicks. His goal for the car is at the local track to have it run 10.70s, on all motor. I think the car should be right there with the changes that were made this winter. If you have any combination questions let me know. We have gone through the engine once before it was ran, since it had been build and sat for 4 years after being finished. Good luck.

[mnm99]

Very nice.

[steve g]

Looking great. I wish I had your talent. Good luck with the build.

[steve g]

On the heads, Edelbrock now makes a d-port head but you'll pay as much for them as the KRE's. I have d-port KRE's with a 74cc chamber and 2.11/1.77 valves with Comp Cams behive springs on a 400 @ 10.25 cr. No issues with pump gas. I paid just around $2K for them with the upgrades. 260 cfm intake, uported. Better flow than Edelbrock.

[12meni]

That pretty much brings me to my current state. The quarters, roof, and floors are almost all welded together. I need to finish up some minor metal work. I want to get this thing to be a roller this year and get some epoxy primer on it. I'll update with more as I get it done.

Wow. Very impressive. Wish I had that kind of energy. Just don't get burnt out trying to do it all in 1 month. You are making amazing progress and I look forward to seeing it continue.

[67rstbkt]

Wow. Very impressive. Wish I had that kind of energy. Just don't get burnt out trying to do it all in 1 month. You are making amazing progress and I look forward to seeing it continue.

Thanks, I usually only work on it one day every week. It's taken almost two years to get to where I'm at. I haven't burnt out yet, hopefully I can keep it up.

[67rstbkt]

mnmm 99: Thanks :1st:

steve g: thanks for the info. And I'm just learning as I go. It's really not that bad if you take your time, just lots of grunt work...

[67rstbkt]

I went and picked up the sub frame from the powdercoater today. I should get it mounted by this weekend. :git:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/04/DSC_0469-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/04/DSC_0470-1.jpg

[67rstbkt]

Then it sounds like it will be a nasty street bruiser:) There is more left in the 498, but it is down to making the chassis work better. He is having a local shop install a set of caltracs, going to a slightly taller tire this year and has installed an alumunuim driveshaft. This car runs a Jerico 4 speed, 9" rear with 3.55 gears, four wheel disc brakes, weld rims, and mickey thompson street slicks. His goal for the car is at the local track to have it run 10.70s, on all motor. I think the car should be right there with the changes that were made this winter. If you have any combination questions let me know. We have gone through the engine once before it was ran, since it had been build and sat for 4 years after being finished. Good luck.

Thanks, did he ever run it with ported iron heads? I'm curious as to what sort of potential I will have with the 467 stroker kit and stock ported heads....

[ryeguy2006a]

Nice car. Doing a thorough job.

[67rstbkt]

Nice car. Doing a thorough job.

Thanks, here's an update.
I mounted the subframe using Global West solid bushings, mounted the GW upper arms, painted the stock lowers. Upper and lower arms have poly bushings. I also mounted the stock rear-end for the time being so that I could get this to roller status. The brakes will be C5; I picked up a set of calipers for a good price, so I guess I'll be giving Kore3 a call for some brackets and hardware.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/05/DSC_0002-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/05/DSC_0003-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/05/DSC_0005-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/05/DSC_0007-1.jpg

[68firebird]

excellent job! I've got those body bushing too, but I'm going to wait to put them in until she's on her wheels. I actually like those rims you've got on there. what kind are they? I'm assuming those are temporary.

[67rstbkt]

excellent job! I've got those body bushing too, but I'm going to wait to put them in until she's on her wheels. I actually like those rims you've got on there. what kind are they? I'm assuming those are temporary.

Thanks. I have no idea what kind of wheels those are, they came with the car, so I'm going to use them as rollers. All I can tell you about them is that they're 15" and have a multiple lug pattern. I'm sure they're an 80's product :cheers:

[1971CHEVELLE]

Looks very good keep us posted

[scherp69]

Looking good Joe. Keep the updates coming.

[78 Type-LT]

nice build..those wheels would look killer a chevy van(A-Team style0

[67rstbkt]

Looks very good keep us posted

Thanks, will do

[67rstbkt]

Looking good Joe. Keep the updates coming.

I will, you too. Maybe I can get some more ideas from your build:woot::woot:

Even though we're building different cars, there's a lot in common between them.

[67rstbkt]

nice build..those wheels would look killer a chevy van(A-Team style0

I pity the fool..........:1st:

[67rstbkt]

I got some more work done on the firewall and started motor dis assembly. I also deburred the lifter valley casting and fit the mega brace lifter valley brace on my 400. I'll be dropping the block off at the machinist this week.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/06/IMGP1147-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/06/IMGP1137-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/06/IMGP1141-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/06/IMGP1142-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/06/IMGP1146-1.jpg

[BirdsThaWord]

You're really attacking that thing! Can't wait to see it done. You have much bigger kahoonas than me for taking on such a project!!!

[67rstbkt]

You're really attacking that thing! Can't wait to see it done. You have much bigger kahoonas than me for taking on such a project!!!

Thanks man; attacking is a good word to describe it. At times I do feel as if I'm at war with the car :machine:

Here's one more pic i forgot to add; test fitting the ridetech gas cap.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/06/gascap-1.jpg

[BirdsThaWord]

Thanks man; attacking is a good word to describe it. At times I do feel as if I'm at war with the car :machine:

Here's one more pic i forgot to add; test fitting the ridetech gas cap.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/06/gascap-1.jpg
I visited a shop near me the other day to check out some of their builds. Funny thing is, what struck me and stuck with me the most was a gas cap like yours. I don't think pictures do those things justice cause they look killer in person, Nice choice!!!

[67rstbkt]

I visited a shop near me the other day to check out some of their builds. Funny thing is, what struck me and stuck with me the most was a gas cap like yours. I don't think pictures do those things justice cause they look killer in person, Nice choice!!!


Thanks, I was not going to do it at first because I thought I would screw it up, but another member on here did it with a section of Camaro tail panel and I decided to just go for it. A member on Lat-g was nice enough to hook me up with a section of panel and the rest was just cutting and splicing it in. It really changes the whole look of the car. I'm really glad I did it.

[NASH JUDGE]

plus.
Join us or just stop in and visit.
www.silverstatepontiac.com (http://www.silverstatepontiac.com)

8-19-2010 @ 7:00

[67rstbkt]

plus.
Join us or just stop in and visit.
www.silverstatepontiac.com (http://www.silverstatepontiac.com)

8-19-2010 @ 7:00

Thanks, I'll check it out :bananna2:

[67rstbkt]

Been awhile since an update, so here you go. My block is still at the machine shop, so I'm sort of on a hold for a little while. I painted the firewall and dash in preparation for the motor. I picked up a set of Edelbrock aluminum heads, a Hayes flywheel and a Mcleod clutch. I also picked up another project....sort of. I call it project brougham and it's going to be my daily driver and built on a real tight budget. So far I just tuned it up, fixed some minor issues, and swapped the rollers from the firebird to it with some 275/60/15 and 235/60/15 tires. Anyway, here are the pics:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/10/DSC_0043-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/10/DSC_0044-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/10/DSC_0045-2.jpg

And Project Brougham :D

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

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

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

[LeighP]

Doing a great job, there.....I love seeing builds on Firebirds.
I got to tell you, I really like those wheels...never seen them before.

[67rstbkt]

Doing a great job, there.....I love seeing builds on Firebirds.
I got to tell you, I really like those wheels...never seen them before.

Thank you :) I never thought I would use those wheels, but I bolted them up and liked the way they looked on the grand prix. It's amazing what you can do with a little sandpaper, a scotchbrite pad, black paint, and some elbow grease. I've never seen them before either, I wonder what the center caps look like? It would be nice to have some, but I can't complain too much for the amount of cash I have in them.

[LeighP]

lol...yeah, a little elbow grease and sweat is a nice pirce for them....I don't think they need centre caps.

[NASH JUDGE]

"QUOTE" Been awhile since an update, so here you go. My block is still at the machine shop, so I'm sort of on a hold for a little while. I painted the firewall and dash in preparation for the motor. I picked up a set of Edelbrock aluminum heads, a Hayes flywheel and a Mcleod clutch. I also picked up another project....sort of. I call it project brougham and it's going to be my daily driver and built on a real tight budget. So far I just tuned it up, fixed some minor issues, and swapped the rollers from the firebird to it with some 275/60/15 and 235/60/15 tires. Anyway, here are the pics:

who's doin your machine work ? what trans and bell will be used ? whats goin on top of the heads ? Cam ?

[67rstbkt]

I picked up my parts this past Friday; now the fun begins. I filed the rings to fit and should hopefully get the shortblock assembled this week. Here are the pics:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/02/FB11-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/02/FB12-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/02/FB14-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/02/FB16-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/02/FB17-1.jpg

[67rstbkt]

"QUOTE"
who's doin your machine work ? what trans and bell will be used ? whats goin on top of the heads ? Cam ?

Sorry, I didn't notice this until today. A local shop here in Reno is doing the machining. Superior Machine is the shop name; it's a small shop and they take awhile to get things done, but the work is real nice. I'm using a T56 (Viper) with a scatter shield bellhousing. I'm basically following Socrates T56 swap in the manual transmissions forum on this site. I have not picked out a cam just yet, but have a general idea of what I'm getting (standard hydraulic). I'll update with the specs when I decide; Tomahawk is one of the cams I'm looking at, the TC02 , I think. What do you mean what's going on top of the heads?

[geberhard]

Joe, excellent job, and will be keeping up with the thread. We started on bird#3 (68 for my buddy), and he lost a bit of the motivation today, so I sent him your build and he is pumped again! Thanks! Great to see another bird flying again! Gui

[CruizinKev]

nice project! :twothumbs I also like your daily brougham but you already know :)

[67rstbkt]

Joe, excellent job, and will be keeping up with the thread. We started on bird#3 (68 for my buddy), and he lost a bit of the motivation today, so I sent him your build and he is pumped again! Thanks! Great to see another bird flying again! Gui

Thank you, I appreciate that. It's difficult staying motivated sometimes, but then I get my hands on one more piece of the puzzle and it's on....

[67rstbkt]

nice project! :twothumbs I also like your daily brougham but you already know :)

Thanks Kev; I'll post some updates over on g-body when I get a minute. The brougham is getting closer to being a little more presentable, lol. I still need to cut and buff, but it's getting there.

[rohrt]

Great thread!

I assume your going hydralic roller since I saw the pick of the lifter bore brace? I would go with the SD old faithful grind.

[67rstbkt]

Great thread!

I assume your going hydralic roller since I saw the pick of the lifter bore brace? I would go with the SD old faithful grind.

I bought the brace before I had really decided; I'm still undecided, but leaning towards a standard hydraulic instead of the roller. I'm going to install the brace anyway, I figure the extra strength is never a bad thing, plus if I do got with the roller now or later on, it will be there.

[NASH JUDGE]

Sorry, I didn't notice this until today. A local shop here in Reno is doing the machining. Superior Machine is the shop name; it's a small shop and they take awhile to get things done, but the work is real nice. I'm using a T56 (Viper) with a scatter shield bellhousing. I'm basically following Socrates T56 swap in the manual transmissions forum on this site. I have not picked out a cam just yet, but have a general idea of what I'm getting (standard hydraulic). I'll update with the specs when I decide; Tomahawk is one of the cams I'm looking at, the TC02 , I think. What do you mean what's going on top of the heads?

What intake and carb ? maybe a little forced induction !....your car is lookin sweet..nice recipe for a killer bird .keep it up. Next meeting this thurs @ 7;00- sparks Denny's

[67rstbkt]

What intake and carb ? maybe a little forced induction !....your car is lookin sweet..nice recipe for a killer bird .keep it up. Next meeting this thurs @ 7;00- sparks Denny's

I didn't even notice you were local, lol. Are you talking about the silver state classic car club? What's on the agenda, would I just show up or what? Does everyone bring out their cars? What if we get snow? So many questions, I know...

The car came with an edelbrock intake and Holley double pumper so I was going to look into using what I have if I can. I'm just taking it one step at at time. Right now my focus is on block assembly, then cam choice, then heads, intake, etc..

[67rstbkt]

I guess I'm long over due for an update. Progress has been slow, I sort of got sidetracked on another deal. The block is mostly together and painted. I'm just waiting on the manifold, it's at the machine shop. It needs some material removed to fit due to the block decking and head resurfacing. The heads got a little more work than I originally intended. In addition to resurfacing, the ports and chambers were cleaned up, new springs installed, and the vlave job was touched up.

Here are some pics:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/p91-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/p81-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/p71-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/p21-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/p41-1.jpg

[67rstbkt]

A few more:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/degree2-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/assemble1-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/blockdegree-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/blockpainted2-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/blockpainted3-1.jpg

[T_Raven]

Engine looks good, one of these days I'll build me a proper one

[67rstbkt]

Engine looks good, one of these days I'll build me a proper one

Thanks :thankyou:

[CliffS]

very sweet mill!

[67rstbkt]

very sweet mill!

Thanks, I've been debating using the 69 TA hood ever since I first saw your car.

[67rstbkt]

Long overdue updates. The motor and trans are now in the car. I've started getting the front sheet metal bolted up, sandblasted and painted all the little brackets that are needed for that. I used Eastwood Ceramic underhood black for the parts. Well, here are the pics.......

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/DSC_0016-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/DSC_0018-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/DSC_00041-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/DSC_0015-1.jpg

[67rstbkt]

A few more:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/DSC_00161-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/DSC_00171-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/DSC_00181-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/DSC_0019-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/DSC_0020-1.jpg

[67rstbkt]

Here are the pics after I messed around with the hood/bumper gaps. It's not perfect, but it is much better than it was. I ordered and installed a set of Doug's headers too; I am very pleased with how well they fit.

Anyway, here are the pics:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/DSC_0049-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/DSC_00032-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/DSC_00022-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/DSC_00461-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/DSC_00452-1.jpg

and here's one of the cowl panel that I cut apart and welded back together because it was sitting too high:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/DSC_00471-1.jpg


And the after fitment:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/DSC_0048-1.jpg

[rohrt]

Looks really good. My hood to bumper looks about the same as yours.

Surprised you went with the lifter boor brace with a flat tappet cam and not a roller.

[67rstbkt]

Looks really good. My hood to bumper looks about the same as yours.

Surprised you went with the lifter boor brace with a flat tappet cam and not a roller.

Thanks, I picked up the brace before deciding on a cam and I know I really don't need it for my application, but I figured it would not hurt to put it in. That way if I do decide I want to go roller down the road, it's already there.

[CliffS]

Making progress, looking good.
You're using Doug's headers, did you try a oil filter yet. I encountered som clearance problems with the Napa 1258 I normally use

[67rstbkt]

Making progress, looking good.
You're using Doug's headers, did you try a oil filter yet. I encountered som clearance problems with the Napa 1258 I normally use

I did; I read somewhere that I could use the same oil filter as on an LS1, so I tried it out and it looks like a good fit. AC Delco part number PF46. I can try out some others, but I like this option because I'm pretty sure I don't have to worry about not finding one on the shelf at the auto parts store.

[CliffS]

Do you have the 569's?
Is PF46 filter not too small for the Poncho mill? Read about oil pressure dropping when going too small and anti drain valve etc.
Any pic of the engine with the filter on? Would be a big help.
Big headache here, got some pointers that NAPA 1522 or WIX 51522 would do the trick ( 3"diameter and 4.5" height). Whole day busy trying to find that filter, nobody ever heard of Napa/WIX

[67rstbkt]

Do you have the 569's?
Is PF46 filter not too small for the Poncho mill? Read about oil pressure dropping when going too small and anti drain valve etc.
Any pic of the engine with the filter on? Would be a big help.
Big headache here, got some pointers that NAPA 1522 or WIX 51522 would do the trick ( 3"diameter and 4.5" height). Whole day busy trying to find that filter, nobody ever heard of Napa/WIX

I have the 568's (round port heads listing). I'm not sure about the filter being too small or not, but I guess I need to look into it some before I fire up the engine. I have a Napa store locally, so I'll check it out and see if they have those parts #'s I'll try and get a pic of the PF46 on there for you.

[CliffS]

I have the 568's (round port heads listing). I'm not sure about the filter being too small or not, but I guess I need to look into it some before I fire up the engine. I have a Napa store locally, so I'll check it out and see if they have those parts #'s I'll try and get a pic of the PF46 on there for you.

I noticed the Edelbrocks too late.
I you can check the numbers that would be awesome, appriciate it Joe!!

[LeighP]

Have a friend with a 68 and a 428 in it....runs the LS1 filter on his for clearance, no problems.

[CliffS]

thanks Leigh,
I will try to get the PF46 anyway. Just got the suggestion to try PF45 too, probably an old part number which is now know by PF61

[67rstbkt]

Do you have the 569's?
Is PF46 filter not too small for the Poncho mill? Read about oil pressure dropping when going too small and anti drain valve etc.
Any pic of the engine with the filter on? Would be a big help.
Big headache here, got some pointers that NAPA 1522 or WIX 51522 would do the trick ( 3"diameter and 4.5" height). Whole day busy trying to find that filter, nobody ever heard of Napa/WIX

OK, I stopped by NAPA and picked up a 1522. It looks a little larger than the AC Delco PF46 that I have now. I'll try it out as soon as I can and let you know how it fits.

[CliffS]

You're the man!! Curious about fitment!

[67rstbkt]

You're the man!! Curious about fitment!

No problem, here it is. The Napa filter is about the same diameter as the AC Delco, it's just longer. It does fit, but it was harder to get it in there. Once I got a few threads turned, piece of cake. Here are the pics; I have one of each filter on the car and one pic of the two filters next to each other.

[CliffS]

No problem, here it is. The Napa filter is about the same diameter as the AC Delco, it's just longer. It does fit, but it was harder to get it in there. Once I got a few threads turned, piece of cake. Here are the pics; I have one of each filter on the car and one pic of the two filters next to each other.

Thanks a million Joe. That extra filter will do the trick.
It seems you have more clearance with the 568's. A buddy locally here runs a BMW shop. He was able to track down a WIX 51522 (Miracles happen). I will spend some time wrenching next Sunday.

[67rstbkt]

Thanks a million Joe. That extra filter will do the trick.
It seems you have more clearance with the 568's. A buddy locally here runs a BMW shop. He was able to track down a WIX 51522 (Miracles happen). I will spend some time wrenching next Sunday.

Anytime; thanks for the tip on the filter, I like this option better. I would have thought you would have more clearance with the 569's. I'd be interested in seeing what it looks like on your setup. If I can find any more info on it, I'll let you know. There's got to be a cross reference somewhere.

[CliffS]

Better safe then sorry. Small investment on the filter. I will shoot some pics Sunday. Thanks

[67rstbkt]

Better safe then sorry. Small investment on the filter. I will shoot some pics Sunday. Thanks

That's for sure. I found an applications listing on Napa's website. Looks like the 1522 fits a lot of different applications. I've already found a bosch and K&N that looks like it would work. Here are the applications from Napa's website:

Applications for part 1522

Make Model Engine
AMERICAN MOTORS CONCORD L6 4.2L 258 CID
AMERICAN MOTORS EAGLE L6 4.2L 258 CID
AMERICAN MOTORS EAGLE SX-4 L6 4.2L 258 CID
AMERICAN MOTORS SPIRIT L6 4.2L 258 CID
BUICK LACROSSE V6 3.6L 217 CID
BUICK LUCERNE V6 3.9L 237 CID
BUICK LUCERNE V8 4.6L 281 CID
BUICK RAINIER L6 4.2L 256 CID
BUICK RENDEZVOUS V6 3.6L 217 CID
BUICK RIVIERA V8 5.7L 350 CID Diesel
BUICK TERRAZA V6 3.9L 237 CID
CADILLAC ALLANTE V8 4.6L 281 CID
CADILLAC COMM CHASSIS V8 4.9L 300 CID
CADILLAC COMM CHASSIS V8 6.0L 368 CID
CADILLAC DEVILLE V8 4.6L 281 CID
CADILLAC DEVILLE V8 4.9L 300 CID
CADILLAC DEVILLE CONCOURS V8 4.6L 281 CID
CADILLAC DTS V8 4.6L 281 CID
CADILLAC ELDORADO V8 4.6L 281 CID
CADILLAC ELDORADO V8 4.9L 300 CID
CADILLAC FLEETWOOD V8 4.9L 300 CID
CADILLAC SEVILLE V8 4.6L 281 CID
CADILLAC SEVILLE V8 4.9L 300 CID
CADILLAC SRX V8 4.6L 281 CID
CADILLAC STS V8 4.6L 281 CID
CADILLAC XLR V8 4.6L 281 CID
CHEVROLET IMPALA V6 3.5L 213 CID
CHEVROLET IMPALA V6 3.9L 237 CID
CHEVROLET MALIBU V6 3.5L 213 CID
CHEVROLET MALIBU V6 3.9L 237 CID
CHEVROLET MALIBU V8 3.9L 238 CID
CHEVROLET MONTE CARLO V6 3.5L 213 CID
CHEVROLET MONTE CARLO V6 3.9L 237 CID
CHEVROLET LIGHT TRUCKS COLORADO L5 3.5L 211 CID
CHEVROLET LIGHT TRUCKS COLORADO L5 3.7L 226 CID
CHEVROLET LIGHT TRUCKS SILVERADO (ALL) V8 4.8L 294 CID
CHEVROLET LIGHT TRUCKS SILVERADO (ALL) V8 5.3L 325 CID
CHEVROLET LIGHT TRUCKS SILVERADO (ALL) V8 6.0L 364 CID
CHEVROLET LIGHT TRUCKS SUBURBAN (ALL) V8 6.0L 364 CID
CHEVROLET LIGHT TRUCKS TAHOE V8 4.8L 294 CID
CHEVROLET LIGHT TRUCKS TRAILBLAZER L6 4.2L 256 CID
CHEVROLET LIGHT TRUCKS UPLANDER V6 3.9L 237 CID
GMC LIGHT TRUCKS CANYON L5 3.5L 211 CID
GMC LIGHT TRUCKS CANYON L5 3.7L 226 CID
GMC LIGHT TRUCKS ENVOY L6 4.2L 256 CID
GMC LIGHT TRUCKS SIERRA PICKUPS (ALL) V8 4.8L 294 CID
GMC LIGHT TRUCKS SIERRA PICKUPS (ALL) V8 5.3L 325 CID
GMC LIGHT TRUCKS SIERRA PICKUPS (ALL) V8 6.0L 364 CID
GMC LIGHT TRUCKS YUKON (ALL) V8 4.8L 294 CID
GMC LIGHT TRUCKS YUKON (ALL) V8 6.0L 364 CID
HUMMER H3 L5 3.5L 211 CID
HUMMER H3 L5 3.7L 223 CID
HUMMER H3T L5 3.7L 223 CID
HUMMER H3X L5 3.7L 223 CID
ISUZU ASCENDER L6 4.2L 256 CID
ISUZU I350 L5 3.5L 211 CID
ISUZU I370 L5 3.7L 226 CID
JEEP CHEROKEE L6 4.2L 258 CID
JEEP CJ5 L6 4.2L 258 CID
JEEP CJ7 L6 4.2L 258 CID
JEEP GRAND WAGONEER L6 4.2L 258 CID
JEEP GRAND WAGONEER V8 5.9L 360 CID
JEEP PICKUP J SERIES L6 4.2L 258 CID
JEEP PICKUP J SERIES V8 5.9L 360 CID
JEEP SCRAMBLER L6 4.2L 258 CID
JEEP WAGONEER L6 4.2L 258 CID
OLDSMOBILE AURORA V8 4.0L 244 CID
OLDSMOBILE BRAVADA L6 4.2L 256 CID
OLDSMOBILE CUTLASS CALAIS V8 4.3L 260 CID
OLDSMOBILE CUTLASS CALAIS V8 4.3L 260 CID Diesel
OLDSMOBILE CUTLASS CALAIS V8 5.0L 307 CID
OLDSMOBILE CUTLASS CALAIS V8 5.7L 350 CID Diesel
OLDSMOBILE CUTLASS SALON V8 5.0L 307 CID
OLDSMOBILE CUTLASS SALON V8 5.7L 350 CID Diesel
PONTIAC BONNEVILLE V8 4.6L 281 CID
PONTIAC G6 V6 3.5L 213 CID
PONTIAC G6 V6 3.9L 237 CID
PONTIAC MONTANA V6 3.9L 237 CID
SAAB 9-7X L6 4.2L 256 CID
SATURN AURA V6 3.5L 213 CID
SATURN RELAY V6 3.9L 237 CID
SATURN VUE V6 3.5L 213 CID
SHELBY SERIES 1 V8 4.0L 4000cc

[CliffS]

Looks good. Lot of guys on PY use the 1522 and the 1258.

[CliffS]

Hey Joe, update.
The 51522 delivered:

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

A lot smaller, but it seems there is a big difference between the round port and d port headers.

The Napa I used before

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

and the WIX

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

I had to put the WIX on the filter adapter before mounting the filter adapter, otherwise there was no way to get the filter on the block. One mounted the filter bottom just hits
the header. It's so little I was able to twist the filter and hand tighted it. I think I'm going to leave it this way for now, to much of a headache.

[LeighP]

I went the remote filter path on mine...lets me run a standard or long Chevy filter. Easy to get.

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

[67rstbkt]

Hey Joe, update.
The 51522 delivered:

A lot smaller, but it seems there is a big difference between the round port and d port headers.

The Napa I used before


I had to put the WIX on the filter adapter before mounting the filter adapter, otherwise there was no way to get the filter on the block. One mounted the filter bottom just hits
the header. It's so little I was able to twist the filter and hand tighted it. I think I'm going to leave it this way for now, to much of a headache.

Wow, it's crazy how much different it is in your setup. If I had the same fitment, I might try the offset adapter R.A.R.E sells for their ram air manifolds (Maybe tilting it back will make it easier to get in), or just do it like LeighP did.

[zooboy]

excellent job! I've got those body bushing too, but I'm going to wait to put them in until she's on her wheels. I actually like those rims you've got on there. what kind are they? I'm assuming those are temporary.

Those wheels are Western bullet rims. I had a set on my 69 camaro and I still have them if your interrested.

[zooboy]

If you want to see what the center caps look like check out my photobucket album the front tires have the center caps and I have the rears to match.

[CliffS]

I went the remote filter path on mine...lets me run a standard or long Chevy filter. Easy to get.

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

thanks Leigh,

Was thinking about the remote set up before but since the MSD 6AL and a fuel pump regulator are already mounted on the firewall I rather not go that way. If I had to mount the remote set up I probably had to mount it more to the front of the car which is in mine opinion not to good.

[CliffS]

Wow, it's crazy how much different it is in your setup. If I had the same fitment, I might try the offset adapter R.A.R.E sells for their ram air manifolds (Maybe tilting it back will make it easier to get in), or just do it like LeighP did.

Crazy indeed! Turns me crazy but it is part of hot rodding I suppose. Any idea what anlgle the R.A.R.E adapter makes?

[67rstbkt]

Crazy indeed! Turns me crazy but it is part of hot rodding I suppose. Any idea what anlgle the R.A.R.E adapter makes?

I'm not sure exactly, but looking at it, it seems that it would tilt the filter back. It might be worth giving them a call to find out. I've seen the adaptor in the AMES catalog as well.

Here's the link to the R.A.R.E adapter:
http://www.ramairrestoration.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=31_3&products_id=49

[CliffS]

I'm not sure exactly, but looking at it, it seems that it would tilt the filter back. It might be worth giving them a call to find out. I've seen the adaptor in the AMES catalog as well.

Here's the link to the R.A.R.E adapter:
http://www.ramairrestoration.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=31_3&products_id=49

Thanks Joe, talked to RARE yesterday evening. It seems the adapter just moves the housing outwards 1" 1/2. think I have to locate a 90 dgrs filter housing.

[67rstbkt]

Thanks Joe, talked to RARE yesterday evening. It seems the adapter just moves the housing outwards 1" 1/2. think I have to locate a 90 dgrs filter housing.

Well that sucks! the description states it re-clocks the filter. Have you called up the people at Doug's headers? Seems that they should have some info if they are going to sell a product that is supposed to fit as well as they say.

[CliffS]

Good news, tracked down a straight housing, will be shipped today.
Read about the same problem on a board which Doug's had no answer to.

[67rstbkt]

Good news, tracked down a straight housing, will be shipped today.
Read about the same problem on a board which Doug's had no answer to.

Nice! Well post up some pics when you get it in.

[PonchoJohn]

The R/A adapter does both- it spaces the filter outward (due to it bolting in between your block and OE oil filter housing) and rotates the filter rearward/upward.
Another trick is to oval the two lower mounting bolts. This will give you a fair amount of adjustment room while still fitting in the OEM spot.

[CliffS]

Thanks for the alternitives John, I've been thinking about the Jim Hand option but it still wouldn't allow to screw of the filter without taking of the adapter.

Joe! I received the straight adapter. It solved the whole issue. Will not hijack your post no longer ;) and post on my thread. Thanks again for your help!

[67rstbkt]

Thanks for the alternitives John, I've been thinking about the Jim Hand option but it still wouldn't allow to screw of the filter without taking of the adapter.

Joe! I received the straight adapter. It solved the whole issue. Will not hijack your post no longer ;) and post on my thread. Thanks again for your help!

No worries, I'm glad you finally found a solution to the problem.

[captainofiron]

This thread is really getting my juices going.

Really nice to see so many 1st gen firebird guys on here.

[67rstbkt]

Long overdue for an update so here we go:

Fuel system: complete (used a Tanksinc pump setup, ROBBMC regulator, 3/8 stainless feed and return

AAW wire harness, installation underway

Pedals refurbished, modified to work with new clutch, and old butchery welds cleaned up

Lincoln Mark VIII fan installed

Bought an American Powertrain x-member that was supposed to fit.....of course it did not, so had to modify to make it work

Ordered a RideTEch 4 link and coil-overs, waiting on getting the wheels and then I'm going to attempt to narrow the Ford 9" I have in waiting.

I've also been continuing to work on the body and will be attempting an initial start of the motor real soon to get the cam broken in and make sure nothing leaks :excited:


On to the pics:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/01/557454_2447117995030_810059424_n-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/01/375820_2447121235111_1388066058_n-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/01/255527_2447121555119_1792718722_n-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/01/386216_2447121755124_919928446_n-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/01/252480_2447121635121_507034331_n-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/01/306588_2307308779887_250268101_n-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/01/382418_2307308979892_58811773_n-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/01/534846_2307309219898_1694356304_n-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/01/599912_2307309339901_800581752_n-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/01/156575_2167599047231_529012148_n-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/01/545007_2167599247236_520918469_n-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/01/528836_2167599527243_1271556384_n-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/01/579418_2167599847251_1945294515_n-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/01/6226_2621460993496_1029176705_n-1.jpg

[dusterbd13]

what did you think of the tanks inc setup? looks like my best solution for me EFI conversion for the duster.
how was install? anything you didnt like? how high does it stick up from the tank surface? anything you wish you could change?

ad i just got done reading all 4 pages. currentyly doing a partial reesto on a 68 myself.

[67rstbkt]

what did you think of the tanks inc setup? looks like my best solution for me EFI conversion for the duster.
how was install? anything you didnt like? how high does it stick up from the tank surface? anything you wish you could change?

ad i just got done reading all 4 pages. currentyly doing a partial reesto on a 68 myself.


For the money, I don't think it can be beat. I went with the Walbro 255lph pump (high pressure) and a RobbMC regulator to get it down to the right psi for my carb. If I ever do go fuel injection, I should be able to swap the spring in the regulator and call it good. If you do get it, plan it out carefully for the best spot. I measured a few times before cutting my hole. Also, the top of it and the lines take up a lot of space (I would have to measure, but somewhere in the 1-1.5" range). I ended up cutting a hole in my trunk floor to clear it. I don't mind it so much because I will be able to access the pump without dropping the tank. Cutting the tank and welding in a recess could also work if you do not want to cut out an access panel.

[dusterbd13]

if you could, please measure. thats the critical dimension im worried about.
though i handnt thought about access hole. that may make it a non issue. i could even use a small stainless mixing bowl from the dollar store to make a clearance bubble with a sealing flange.....

just thinking out on the keyboard.

thanks for your pinion. and if you get time to grab a measurement, id really appreciate it.

michael

[67rstbkt]

if you could, please measure. thats the critical dimension im worried about.
though i handnt thought about access hole. that may make it a non issue. i could even use a small stainless mixing bowl from the dollar store to make a clearance bubble with a sealing flange.....

just thinking out on the keyboard.

thanks for your pinion. and if you get time to grab a measurement, id really appreciate it.

michael

No problem, I'll get you a measurement and a picture when I have a minute. I made a raised section in my trunk just to give it a little extra, you'll see what I mean when I get the pic. On my car, there is very little room between the bottom of the trunk floor and the top of the tank, so besides recessing into the tank, this is the only other option I could think of.

[67rstbkt]

if you could, please measure. thats the critical dimension im worried about.
though i handnt thought about access hole. that may make it a non issue. i could even use a small stainless mixing bowl from the dollar store to make a clearance bubble with a sealing flange.....

just thinking out on the keyboard.

"

thanks for your pinion. and if you get time to grab a measurement, id really appreciate it.

michael


Took some pictures of the trunk area and a measurement. From the gas tank surface up to the top of the fittings it's about 1 3/8"

I cut a hole in my trunk and made a raised section to hold a cover panel.

[dusterbd13]

sweet. thjat helps a bunch. THANK YOU!

[67rstbkt]

sweet. thjat helps a bunch. THANK YOU!

Glad I could help!

[67rstbkt]

sweet. thjat helps a bunch. THANK YOU!

Little update on the Tanks setup. Turns out my placement is not the greatest. I got the motor fired up and it started starving for fuel after about ten minutes (added 4 gallons to the tank). I will have to rethink the direction of the sump or possibly cut a section out below and add a sump into my tank.

[67rstbkt]

Got the motor started for the first time. Found 2 issues:

1: I will need to rethink the fuel pump setup (see previous post)

2: Little oil leak that I need to investigate. It looks like it's either the rear main or the oil pan. I'm kind of pissed about this because I used the high-dollar BOP seal and followed the instructions exactly (if hat's the cause). The other possibility is the oil pan. It's the Canton pan and it was way off out of the box, so I had to massage it into shape. I thought about exchanging it after I got it, but at the time, my machine shop was using the same pan on a Pontiac and it fit exactly like mine did. It's like it got warped a little when they welded to bottom portion onto it.

Anyways, here's a link to a video of it running (youtube). This is after I ran it for about 20 minutes at around 2000 rpm. It's idling at about 1000 in this video

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lNY4Qg7rqdY

[CliffS]

Good to see some action under the hood Joe! Hope it is only the pan!

[67rstbkt]

Good to see some action under the hood Joe! Hope it is only the pan!

Thanks, me too!

[dusterbd13]

Little update on the Tanks setup. Turns out my placement is not the greatest. I got the motor fired up and it started starving for fuel after about ten minutes (added 4 gallons to the tank). I will have to rethink the direction of the sump or possibly cut a section out below and add a sump into my tank.

so what do you think is going wrong? and could it be size of tank vs amount of fuel problem?

i saw yu ut it in the left front corner, with the hole facing the slope (assumed)could the slope be partally blocking opff the hole?

[67rstbkt]

so what do you think is going wrong? and could it be size of tank vs amount of fuel problem?

i saw yu ut it in the left front corner, with the hole facing the slope (assumed)could the slope be partally blocking opff the hole?

The instructions said to place it sideways in the tank, so that's how it is right now. It might work better if I have the hole in the sump facing the front of the car, so I may try that first. The other issue is that the bottom of a tank is not exactly flat, so getting a flat piece to sit flush won't work. I thought about placement for awhile before I cut the hole and figured that where it is would be the best spot (it's pretty close to where the factory places the pickup). This part of the project will probably be put on hold while I work on other stuff, but I'm confident I can get it working better. If spinning the pump does not work, then here's what I'm thinking:

1: Try modifying the sump to fit the bottom of the tank better; cut bottom out, maybe add a new section to match slope of the tank, or

2: Remove tank, cut a hole in the bottom and weld in a small sump section for the fuel pump to sit in. If I went this route, I might see about adding some additional baffling to it.

As a side note, the pump seems pretty loud, but I'm guessing that may be partly due to no insulation in the car right now.

[67rstbkt]

so what do you think is going wrong? and could it be size of tank vs amount of fuel problem?

i saw yu ut it in the left front corner, with the hole facing the slope (assumed)could the slope be partally blocking opff the hole?

You should check out the new products section on Tanks website, they have a bunch of stuff now that would have been great when I got mine. They offer a factory fit fuel tank for my application, already baffled and with a recessed section to clear the fuel lines for $210

They also have a weld in drop piece to provide room on an existing tank.

[captainofiron]

You should check out the new products section on Tanks website, they have a bunch of stuff now that would have been great when I got mine. They offer a factory fit fuel tank for my application, already baffled and with a recessed section to clear the fuel lines for $210

They also have a weld in drop piece to provide room on an existing tank.

got a link?

[67rstbkt]

got a link?

Sure, here's the accessories page:

http://www.tanksinc.com/index.cfm/page/ptype=results/category_id=62/home_id=62/mode=cat/cat62.htm


If you are setting up your own tank, I would use their weld in recess. When I get back to working on the fuel tank on mine, I will most likely see if I can add some additional baffling and maybe get one of those weld in sumps to get the assembly lower.

[captainofiron]

Sure, here's the accessories page:

http://www.tanksinc.com/index.cfm/page/ptype=results/category_id=62/home_id=62/mode=cat/cat62.htm


If you are setting up your own tank, I would use their weld in recess. When I get back to working on the fuel tank on mine, I will most likely see if I can add some additional baffling and maybe get one of those weld in sumps to get the assembly lower.

I was going to buy a new tank mine is a little on the rusty side, since my weld skills are lacking (or non-existent) ill probably just buy a set up

[67rstbkt]

I was going to buy a new tank mine is a little on the rusty side, since my weld skills are lacking (or non-existent) ill probably just buy a set up

Well, if it's for an F-body, the setup Tanks has is a great deal and already has baffling and a recessed spot for the electric fuel pump. If it was out when I bought my pump set-up, I would have definitely went that route. Can't be beat at the price they are offering it for.

[zooboy]

excellent job! I've got those body bushing too, but I'm going to wait to put them in until she's on her wheels. I actually like those rims you've got on there. what kind are they? I'm assuming those are temporary.

The rims in question are a Western Bullet. I have a set with center caps and there are pictures on my photo bucket if you want to see what they look like.

[mario65]

nice bird. I want a t56 just dont have the balz to do it.
I have almost finished mine...minus the t56
suspension:
http://forums.performanceyears.com/forums/showthread.php?t=714841
Brakes:
http://forums.performanceyears.com/forums/showthread.php?t=721771

[Buryingthesun]

I'm still hunting for a cobra/viper T56

Nice bird!

[67rstbkt]

nice bird. I want a t56 just dont have the balz to do it.
I have almost finished mine...minus the t56
suspension:
http://forums.performanceyears.com/forums/showthread.php?t=714841
Brakes:
http://forums.performanceyears.com/forums/showthread.php?t=721771

That's one nice Firebird, I've seen it on the boards before while researching wheel sizes for mine (I'm on PY too). Have you read the write-up Socrates did for the T-56 on this forum (manual transmissions section)? He's got part numbers and did a fantastic job on the write-up. Made the whole thing look real easy, and it actually is not too bad. Everything so far has worked out like he said.

[67rstbkt]

I'm still hunting for a cobra/viper T56

Nice bird!

Thanks! It'll show up, you just have to be on the look-out at all times and be patient. I got a screaming deal on mine; it was on my local craigslist for $950, I asked the guy if that was negotiable and he said that he was going to sell it the following week for $500 to someone if no one offered more. I offered $550 and went down that day to pick it up.

[67GTO4SPD]

This car brought me to this site researching bigger-sized Pontiac Rallye's, so thanks for that. I love watching this build. I can't wait to see this car completed.

And Mario65, that is a beautiful bird, man! Gorgeous car!

[67rstbkt]

This car brought me to this site researching bigger-sized Pontiac Rallye's, so thanks for that. I love watching this build. I can't wait to see this car completed.

And Mario65, that is a beautiful bird, man! Gorgeous car!

Awesome, glad you found the site; there are some unbelievable builds going on here. Check out what arrived today - 18x9 and 18x8

[67GTO4SPD]

LOL - What a coincidence! I just ordered a set of a 17 X 8 and 17 X 9 U109's for my GTO tonight! Did you get them from elitewheels on Ebay? That's where mine are coming from. Since I am simply dying to see what the lip offset (depth) on the rear 9" looks like, if you could post a pic of it, I'd greatly appreciate it. The BS is the same for the 18 x 9 and the 17 X 9.

Those are going to look absolutely killer on your 'Bird. I have a '67 Firebird body that I want to build one day down the road after I get the GTO done. Its a 400 4 speed, A/C body, and is in fair shape, but needs the full drivetrain (including rearend). The PO swapped everything out of this car into a super clean '67 326/2 speed car, and I bought the rest after he 400'd his car.

[67GTO4SPD]

PS - do you think adapting a Pontiac center cap to them is going to be difficult? Is the base the same size as a Pontiac cap? I'm going to either do that, or make a custom cap at work that will look like the Pontiac cap. I'm glad to see that use a tapered lug nut, because I want to use the red center lug nuts to match my red inner fender liners.

I'm sorry for the barrage of questions - I just have not found anybody, anywhere that has these wheels yet, so I ordered with a lot of uncertainty! -lol Those two pics you posted are the first pics I've seen that we're US Mags stock photos.

They look better on your car that I could have imagined. You have made my night, man!

[Buryingthesun]

PS - do you think adapting a Pontiac center cap to them is going to be difficult? Is the base the same size as a Pontiac cap? I'm going to either do that, or make a custom cap at work that will look like the Pontiac cap. I'm glad to see that use a tapered lug nut, because I want to use the red center lug nuts to match my red inner fender liners.

I'm sorry for the barrage of questions - I just have not found anybody, anywhere that has these wheels yet, so I ordered with a lot of uncertainty! -lol Those two pics you posted are the first pics I've seen that we're US Mags stock photos.

They look better on your car that I could have imagined. You have made my night, man!

It shoul be easy to adapt granted you have acces to a Bridgeport or other basic fabrication tools

[67rstbkt]

PS - do you think adapting a Pontiac center cap to them is going to be difficult? Is the base the same size as a Pontiac cap? I'm going to either do that, or make a custom cap at work that will look like the Pontiac cap. I'm glad to see that use a tapered lug nut, because I want to use the red center lug nuts to match my red inner fender liners.

I'm sorry for the barrage of questions - I just have not found anybody, anywhere that has these wheels yet, so I ordered with a lot of uncertainty! -lol Those two pics you posted are the first pics I've seen that we're US Mags stock photos.


Ask away, lol. I was in the same boat, being uncertain about them. But, for the price, I just decided to take a chance. I ordered my set through RonsRims on e-bay. The lip is about 2" on the front (18x8) and 3" on the rear (18x9). I took a pic this morning, but it does not really show that well (and they're dusty). They look much better in person. I don't know about the Pontiac cap since I do not know how big it is. I want to do the same thing, though, so if you get to it before I do, please PM me the details. 72902

[67GTO4SPD]

Thanks for the pics. That looks really good. I like the way the lip looks much better than the angled lip of the Year One Rallye II. I have some stock Pontiac center caps, and I will see how they fit and let you know when mine come in. They are saying 5 - 6 business days. I can't wait!

[67rstbkt]

Thanks for the pics. That looks really good. I like the way the lip looks much better than the angled lip of the Year One Rallye II. I have some stock Pontiac center caps, and I will see how they fit and let you know when mine come in. They are saying 5 - 6 business days. I can't wait!

Awesome, Thanks!!

[captainofiron]

Well, if it's for an F-body, the setup Tanks has is a great deal and already has baffling and a recessed spot for the electric fuel pump. If it was out when I bought my pump set-up, I would have definitely went that route. Can't be beat at the price they are offering it for.

yea not too much higher than the tanks they have in the parts catalogs

[captainofiron]

nice bird. I want a t56 just dont have the balz to do it.
I have almost finished mine...minus the t56
suspension:
http://forums.performanceyears.com/forums/showthread.php?t=714841
Brakes:
http://forums.performanceyears.com/forums/showthread.php?t=721771

thats a really nice color combo

[67GTO4SPD]

I got mine today, and I test fitted a Pontiac cap. With a little bending of the factory clips, I got them to for OK, but I think I may look into a way to bolt them on from behind. The base of the Pontiac cap fits the wheel perfectly. I am going to run the older style caps with the red lucite "PMD" centers, but this style is just what I had laying around.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/03/gtobandit6_zps4cfecb99-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/03/GTObandit7_zps140c3c77-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/03/GTObandit6_zps37c1be94-1.jpg

[robbie9999]

That looks brilliant may have to order me some 20 and 19's for my 66 gto WOW

[67GTO4SPD]

Your GTO would look out of this world good with them, IMO!

[67rstbkt]

Minor update: Factory rear end is out, along with the suspension - what was left of it anyways. I borrowed a jig and will be cutting up the 9 inch soon, then it's onto assembling the Ridetech 4 link :firefire:

[67rstbkt]

Got the Ford cut up and narrowed. Next step is to measure for the new axle lengths, decide on ring and pinion, and mock up the brakes.

[captainofiron]

looking good man!

[67rstbkt]

looking good man!

Thanks!

[72blackbird]

Joe,
I finally got to see your whole build from the start- very awesome. I can't wait to see the 18" US Mag Bandits on the car- it's gonna look very cool, especially with the factory Rally II caps.

Geno

[67rstbkt]

Thanks Geno!

Another small step complete; I cleaned up the housing and painted it. I'm using U-bolts to fasten the lower link plate from Ridetech. I think I could have just bolted it, especially with how substantial the welds are, but for some reason I decided to stick with the U-bolts. I guess I just like making things more difficult than they need to be. I had to use 3.25" U-bolts to match the axle tube. The leaf spring perches are for a stock GM setup, so I had to enlarge the holes a bit to get everything to fit.

[67rstbkt]

Update Time

Finally got the rear end installed after figuring out all the measurements (with help from forum members, of course )

So here is what I have done:

Ford 9", narrowed it myself, had a buddy do final welding

Ridetech 4 link installed, I used nuts and bolts instead of the cheesy self tappers for the majority of the connections. A piece of wire welded to the nut helped me hold the nuts in place inside the frame rails.

98-02 F-body rear brakes installed; figured out a 2.5" offset works well for them. I should have used the flush mount GM ends from Moser instead of the standard ones, but removing .105 from the rear of the backing plates solved that issue.

[67rstbkt]

More....

[gordonr1973]

Subscribing.

Amazing work so far...getting lots of ideas rom your build!

[67rstbkt]

Subscribing.

Amazing work so far...getting lots of ideas rom your build!

Appreciate that, Thanks!

[67rstbkt]

Updates - slow going, but getting there. I've been working on improving the gaps between the doors and fenders, as well as the hood gaps. Little tweaks here and there and it's been coming along.. I also stripped the paint off of the doors and started taking care of the few imperfections. Hoping to paint it this year.

[CliffS]

Getting the caps ok can be a pain, looking good Joe!

[captainofiron]

Post up some pics when you have the wheels on the car, Ive been dieing to see a set of big inch Rally IIs on a 67-68 Firebird

[67rstbkt]

Getting the caps ok can be a pain, looking good Joe!

Thanks, and they sure are a pain. It's hard to know at what point to stop and call it good.

[67rstbkt]

Post up some pics when you have the wheels on the car, Ive been dieing to see a set of big inch Rally IIs on a 67-68 Firebird

I'm dying to see it too, lol - I'm a little ways off from tires, probably after I get the paint on there and all buffed. I promise that I will post the pics the minute I get tires on it :)

[captainofiron]

I'm dying to see it too, lol - I'm a little ways off from tires, probably after I get the paint on there and all buffed. I promise that I will post the pics the minute I get tires on it :)

hahha

Nice!

somebody over on the PY forums posted up this picture
http://s932.photobucket.com/user/72blackbird/media/68YO17x9FR_zpsc5ac23e4.jpg.html
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/68YO17x9FR_zpsc5ac23e4-1.jpg

[67rstbkt]

hahha

Nice!

somebody over on the PY forums posted up this picture
http://s932.photobucket.com/user/72blackbird/media/68YO17x9FR_zpsc5ac23e4.jpg.html
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/68YO17x9FR_zpsc5ac23e4-1.jpg

That is awesome!! Looks like the Year One setup? I gotta get moving on that paint,lol. Thanks for posting that pic, it'll be my new inspiration

[captainofiron]

That is awesome!! Looks like the Year One setup? I gotta get moving on that paint,lol. Thanks for posting that pic, it'll be my new inspiration

yea those are the Year Ones, but I dont know, something just doesnt look right on those wheels, I like the US Mag Bandit way better

[LSXZ28]

http://s932.photobucket.com/user/72blackbird/media/68YO17x9FR_zpsc5ac23e4.jpg.html
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/68YO17x9FR_zpsc5ac23e4-1.jpg

That is sweet! I think those wheels look perfect on there! Only thing I would change on that car is the hoodscoop...

[FireBeater]

MAN! That is beautiful.


That is sweet! I think those wheels look perfect on there! Only thing I would change on that car is the hoodscoop...

[captainofiron]

That is sweet! I think those wheels look perfect on there! Only thing I would change on that car is the hoodscoop...

+1

actually when I first bought my car, it had a similar hood scoop from a Mustang

[Gil]

18x9 and 18x8

Hi Joe,
What tires size did you put on these bada$$ wheels F/R ?
I think I'll buy a set of these for my Bird.
Have you got moar pics ?
Thanks
Gil

[67rstbkt]

Hi Joe,
What tires size did you put on these bada$$ wheels F/R ?
I think I'll buy a set of these for my Bird.
Have you got moar pics ?
Thanks
Gil

Hey Gil,
Unfortunately no tires yet - It's been a busy year for me and the project has had to sit for the past 5 or so months. I am planning on trying to go with a 285/35/18 for the rear. I rolled back the inner edge, so I guess we'll see. I'm uncertain on front size - open to suggestions. More pics as soon as I get them :)

[Gil]

Thanks Joe,
Sometime we need a break !

They offer 18X8 in a 4.5" offset and 18X9 in a 5.25" offset. Is that what you went with ?
I saw the mods you did with rear inner fenders & I think I'll have to do the same to fit the rear wheels...

Gil

[67rstbkt]

Thanks Joe,
Sometime we need a break !

They offer 18X8 in a 4.5" offset and 18X9 in a 5.25" offset. Is that what you went with ?
I saw the mods you did with rear inner fenders & I think I'll have to do the same to fit the rear wheels...

Gil

Yes, that's exactly what I went with. I do not have all my front brake hardware yet, so I do have concerns about the front being too close to the fender lip. I will cross that bridge when I get to it.

[Billetrides]

Great looking project!!! It reminds me of my 68 Firebird. The only piece of metal that stayed original on mine was the roof. Whatever you do don't give up. After 6 years of building mine I was honored when it made it into High Performance Pontiac and Hot Rod Magazine. Here is the article and a link to my website of some current pictures. http://billetrides.com/gallery.html http://www.hotrod.com/cars/featured/hppp-0710-1968-pontiac-firebird/

[67rstbkt]

Great looking project!!! It reminds me of my 68 Firebird. The only piece of metal that stayed original on mine was the roof. Whatever you do don't give up. After 6 years of building mine I was honored when it made it into High Performance Pontiac and Hot Rod Magazine. Here is the article and a link to my website of some current pictures. http://billetrides.com/gallery.html http://www.hotrod.com/cars/featured/hppp-0710-1968-pontiac-firebird/



Thanks, and awesome Firebird you have there! I'm not giving up, I've just been busy with other stuff lately. I have been working on it, but not as much as I would like. I just got done repairing the passenger door - more rust, lol. The only original to the car panels are the passenger door and the hood - I should have just bought a new door, but I just didn't want to replace yet another piece of this thing. I'll post more pics when there is something worth showing.

[67rstbkt]

Still here and not much done on the car yet unfortunately. I've been working on getting a shop built so I can work in a dedicated work space. I did a lot of the work myself to save on costs - electrical, paint in and out, sheetrock, epoxy floor, etc..
Here are a few pics to hold you over. I'm planning on getting back to work on the car very soon.

111683111684111685111686111687111688111689

[rohrt]

Dam nice shop you got there.

[67rstbkt]

Dam nice shop you got there.

Thank you sir, with any luck I can have a dam nice Firebird in it someday :)

[salesguy01]

Here's my 67 with the Rally II's but they are 17's and I scrape a bit, but the fenders are not rolled...

https://www.pro-touring.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=111704&stc=1

[67rstbkt]

Here's my 67 with the Rally II's but they are 17's and I scrape a bit, but the fenders are not rolled...


Beautiful Car! Is it the rear that scrapes or the front?

[Hammered]

Great build and nice choice on the wheels.

[salesguy01]

Well I have the Hotchkis Small Block Springs on front and had the original engine in. Scrapped on almost every bump in the front. After I changed to aluminum heads and intake it is much better. However I need an alignment really bad! So I hope that cures it. The rear only scraped on harder dips, and would hit the chrome trim. But since you rolled your fenders you should be golden. mine are 17X8

[67rstbkt]

Well I have the Hotchkis Small Block Springs on front and had the original engine in. Scrapped on almost every bump in the front. After I changed to aluminum heads and intake it is much better. However I need an alignment really bad! So I hope that cures it. The rear only scraped on harder dips, and would hit the chrome trim. But since you rolled your fenders you should be golden. mine are 17X8

Thanks for the info! I have Hotchkis springs as well, but I need to check if they are the small block version. I bet they are though. I already have aluminum heads and intake so hopefully I can avoid the issues. Please let me know what happens after the alignment

[dusterbd13]

what scissor lift its that? can you walk under it?

[67rstbkt]

what scissor lift its that? can you walk under it?

It's the Central Hydraulics from Harbor Freight:

http://www.harborfreight.com/6000-lb-capacity-scissor-lift-91315.html

No, you can't really walk under it, except for at the front and rear. It would not work very well for transmission related work, but it's good for suspension, anything under the front and rear, and especially body work. It's already made my life easier working on the lower panels. I just take a seat on my rolling stool and lift the car to a comfortable height. Given the choice, I would prefer a 2 post - but this was a good compromise given my space restrictions. When not in use, I cover it up and it's out of my way.

[Josue]

Add another person who found this thread in search of 1st gen Firebirds on US Mag Rally II's!

These are the "bandit" style, right? I've also come across these....

http://www.ebay.com/itm/17x8-17x9-18x8-18x9-Pontiac-Rally-II-Cast-Wheels-Full-SET-CAPS-Fit-Chevy-Also/310728468446?_trksid=p2047675.c100005.m1851&_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIC.MBE%26ao%3D1%2 6asc%3D32022%26meid%3D12ff81c8ee5f43f986d02f901749 d887%26pid%3D100005%26rk%3D1%26rkt%3D6%26mehot%3Dp p%26sd%3D301165857621&rt=nc

...but I can't decide if there are any differences between the 2? haha

[lucky13firebird]

Those are good wheels... i saw a gto with thise in lincoln and it looked great on it too...

[67rstbkt]

Add another person who found this thread in search of 1st gen Firebirds on US Mag Rally II's!

These are the "bandit" style, right? I've also come across these....

http://www.ebay.com/itm/17x8-17x9-18x8-18x9-Pontiac-Rally-II-Cast-Wheels-Full-SET-CAPS-Fit-Chevy-Also/310728468446?_trksid=p2047675.c100005.m1851&_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIC.MBE%26ao%3D1%2 6asc%3D32022%26meid%3D12ff81c8ee5f43f986d02f901749 d887%26pid%3D100005%26rk%3D1%26rkt%3D6%26mehot%3Dp p%26sd%3D301165857621&rt=nc

...but I can't decide if there are any differences between the 2? haha

They appear to be the same wheels I have except it looks like they come with red PMD caps. I am planning on adding the caps to my set.

[67rstbkt]

Yea, still here and slowly chipping away at this. I painted it and started working on the cut/buff

[67rstbkt]

Adding a few parts for motivation126928

[1965gp]

Love the color

[Josue]

^Ditto, great color!! Lotta depth to it...


They appear to be the same wheels I have except it looks like they come with red PMD caps. I am planning on adding the caps to my set.

FYI - I did end up coming across a set of these, and the previous owner adapted the red PMD caps to it. Here's how he did it, in case you needed some ideas.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/05/DSC_0243_zpsz31uzxu0-1.jpg (http://s153.photobucket.com/user/josue309/media/1968%20Firebird/DSC_0243_zpsz31uzxu0.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/03/DSC_0250_zpsdaknyij2-1.jpg (http://s153.photobucket.com/user/josue309/media/1968%20Firebird/DSC_0250_zpsdaknyij2.jpg.html)

[67rstbkt]

Love the color

Thanks!

[67rstbkt]

^Ditto, great color!! Lotta depth to it...



FYI - I did end up coming across a set of these, and the previous owner adapted the red PMD caps to it. Here's how he did it, in case you needed some ideas.



Thanks! and Thanks for those pics, that looks like the right way to adapt those caps. Looks like the inserts were repainted to dark gray, right? Did you do that or did the person you got them from do it? Looks great!

[Josue]

I was wondering if they came like that, or if he did that his self. I hadn't seen a grey set before, so I'd have to say he did that on his own.

[67rstbkt]

Mounted up the fenders, cut and buffed, making progress. I had the driveshaft made last week locally and need to start getting together the parts to get the brake system functional.

[67rstbkt]

132996132997132998

[67rstbkt]

I finally got this car moving under its own power, although the steering seems way too tight. I've got a lee steering box with a stock pump. I modified the pump to use a different valve for a high ratio box. How tight is the steering supposed to be? It feels like a manual box to me.

[67rstbkt]

140002

[67rstbkt]

It's on the road :) I was able to improve the steering by taking the pump apart and removing the last shim. It's still pretty tight, but I'll re-evaluate after the alignment. I am having an issue getting the Dodge Viper vss to play nice with the Dakota digital gauges. I found some pin outs, but I am not sure if the diagram is showing the sensor side or the car side of the pigtail. It doesn't help that the 3 wires are all black.

[67rstbkt]

A few more pics - buffed out the hood and installed the pins. I also figured out the speedo; the dodge pin out info I found was totally wrong. I ended up supplying 12 volts to the sender and using the middle wire as the signal. The Dakota gauges recognized the signal and I was able to program the speedo

[F-Body International]

Great looking car! I like the fact that it still has a Pontiac engine!

[67rstbkt]

Great looking car! I like the fact that it still has a Pontiac engine!

Thanks! It's been a long road and I've got some more work to do, but it's getting there.

[67rstbkt]

Making progress - got the alignment done today. The steering is better - still pretty tight, but I'm not wrestling with it as much. I might try a slightly larger steering wheel (14")

Next up - brakes. I can't seem to lock them up. I'll start by checking vacuum.

[67rstbkt]

Anyone have any steering wheel suggestions in the 14" range?

[67rstbkt]

Update on my steering - it's greatly improved all of a sudden - air?? I also checked on my brakes and it looks like I don't have much vacuum, so I'm looking into Hydroboost.

A few pics:

[67rstbkt]

Still here.......not much of anything done on this project however. I need to complete the interior and there are some issues with the paint after driving it around (a chip here and there). I have a hydro-boost unit and a mount for it, I just need to get going on the install of it.
Also, I need to look more closely at my Ridetech 4 link - seems too noisy to me.

[expensivehobby22]

Love your car

[67rstbkt]

Love your car

Thank you!

[67rstbkt]

Finally got going on the Hydroboost upgrade; the vacuum booster was not working out so well (low on vacuum). I can actually stop now and fully clamp down on the C5 calipers.
I used an Astro Van hydroboost with a late 70's Corvette disc/disc master and made some lines with Russel Powerflex products. I added AN6 adapters to the Hydroboost, steering box, and pump.

[cornfedbill]

A very well done car. We don't see enough early Firebirds. I really like them. This is an exceptional example.

Good work!

[67rstbkt]

A very well done car. We don't see enough early Firebirds. I really like them. This is an exceptional example.

Good work!

Thank you, much appreciated. It's still very much a work in progress, but at least I'm driving it.

[67rstbkt]

A few more random pics

[Buryingthesun]

A few more random pics

AWESOME build! I am also a "Joe M" hahaha

[67rstbkt]

AWESOME build! I am also a "Joe M" hahaha

Lol, thanks Joe

[chiva]

Any updates bout what was going with your 4 link?

[67rstbkt]

Any updates bout what was going with your 4 link?

Yep, totally forgot to update that - Upon closer inspection, I noticed a witness mark right above driveshaft area. It turns out that with the extra articulation and maybe because of the physical size of the Ford 9 inch, the driveshaft, right at the rear u-joint section was making slight contact. The kit has you remove the factory bumpstop as one of the first steps, but I'm not sure if it would help in that location anyways. I ended up installing 2 bumpstops to contact on the rear frame rails and that seems to have cured that. The other issue I had is that the factory leaf spring cups the lower link uses to mount to came loose. I used all new bolts and made sure they were adequately tight, but I guess there is more going on in that section that I thought. I went through it all and added lock washers and lock tite to all of the bolts.
I do still hear some creaking here and there, but I think it might be a combination of the link parts and the coil-overs. I also do not have any insulation between the trunk and cabin, so it's possible what I'm hearing will be reduced when I get around to that.

I do have some updates - Decided to go with the Trans am hood, and I finally got that spoiler mounted. Both will need some more work before I paint. Also installed DSE fender braces.

[AtomicFirebird]

I love the blue. I really like to see low budget builds or shall I say, “home garage builds.” Well done.

[67rstbkt]

I love the blue. I really like to see low budget builds or shall I say, “home garage builds.” Well done.

Thank you! Looks like your Firebird is getting there as well, nice work!

[67rstbkt]

The next thing I need to work on is my power steering pump - I've got a Lee quick ratio box and just added Hydroboost. I added a second return line and modified the stock rebuilt pump to remove the shims for increased pressure. It's now leaking a little from the housing, I think. Even with a new seal - I don't mind taking it apart and changing the seal again, but it would be nice if there was an upgraded pump or some reasonably priced brackets to fit a more modern pump on the Pontiac motor - Thoughts?

[67rstbkt]

Minor update and some future changes - Got the Vintage air installed and sent the power steering pump off to Lee to go through it. They found some bad parts and did a fantastic job on it. The steering and brakes feel better and no more leaking.
I'm thinking of going to the Flush mount front/rear glass since there are some fitment issues and flaws that will lead me straight into a re-paint. Anyone have experience with the glass from Fesler or the other place that sells it. Not sure why, but there's a $300 price difference

[67rstbkt]

Well.......my MarkVIII fan melted down this last weekend at the Ford Connector, so I went a different route. I installed a Derale 2 fan setup, got rid of the DCC controller, and went with a Davies Craig 2 relay setup. Hopefully this works better. I just need to add some spacers to where I mounted it up and will make some kind of cover for it.



166821

[68Formula]

Maybe I missed it. What size tires did you go with?

[67rstbkt]

Maybe I missed it. What size tires did you go with?

285/35/18 rear and 245/40/18 front

[67rstbkt]

So..........Version 2.0 is in the works. Just did the trim less glass. I cut out and replaced the rear deck filler panel as the first one never fit quite right, and I'm going to repaint the top a satin blue.

[BlackHD]

Looking good! How was the 400 hood fitment? Who's the manufacturer? Will you sell it?

[67rstbkt]

Looking good! How was the 400 hood fitment? Who's the manufacturer? Will you sell it?


Thank you! - the 400 hood was original (I'm pretty sure anyways). You likely don't want it though, most of the front edge was rotted. I cut out the metal and welded in new, but my metal work is not that of a highly skilled body man. It looks pretty good due to the skim coat of all-metal followed by a little plastic filler. I would consider selling it, but it doesn't seem worthwhile due to the previously mentioned reasons. Plus, it makes pretty good garage art :)

[67rstbkt]

I also added some vents to the hood:

[Fierbird67]

Looks mean with that hood! I really like what you are doing with this build. Pretty sure I saw your 'bird at HAN a couple years back and it was nice to see your mods in person.

How much clearance does that give you from the intake manifold? I was looking to go the Trans Am hood route but my components are making me think a more custom hood may have to be pieced together.

[67rstbkt]

Looks mean with that hood! I really like what you are doing with this build. Pretty sure I saw your 'bird at HAN a couple years back and it was nice to see your mods in person.

How much clearance does that give you from the intake manifold? I was looking to go the Trans Am hood route but my components are making me think a more custom hood may have to be pieced together.

Thanks! Was that at the A&W? Did you have a car with you?
I have plenty of clearance, but have never measured it. What components are you using that would maybe cause an issue?

[Fierbird67]

I think it was at one of the monster parking lot shows which I can't remember the name of. We haven't managed to bring a car out yet, but hopefully will have something worth bringing to the show this year.

As for clearance I'm running an Edelbrock dual plane manifold with Throttle body and an Airaid hat (200-100) which adds another 4 to 5 inches.

[67rstbkt]

I think it was at one of the monster parking lot shows which I can't remember the name of. We haven't managed to bring a car out yet, but hopefully will have something worth bringing to the show this year.

As for clearance I'm running an Edelbrock dual plane manifold with Throttle body and an Airaid hat (200-100) which adds another 4 to 5 inches.

Cool, probably Peppermill or the Grand Sierra then. I haven't registered for this year, but I'll go check out the cars. I do not have 4-5 inches of clearance, so you might need to check out something else - like a cowl hood maybe

[Fierbird67]

Peppermill sounds like it may have been it.

Thanks for the info and looking forward to seeing how that 2-tone turns out!

[67rstbkt]

Peppermill sounds like it may have been it.

Thanks for the info and looking forward to seeing how that 2-tone turns out!

You and me both, lol. I'll eventually repaint the whole car. I'm just doing the Satin on top because it'll be cheaper and if I have any more body issues, I won't be too bummed out. I should have put this car in primer and driven it for awhile before I painted it the first time.

[67rstbkt]

Getting closer to finishing off V2.0 - the satin paint was tougher to lay down than I thought it would be, plus I'm having issues with my compressor. I'll need to re-shoot the roof and upper quarter panel sections. Hopefully next weekend.......

[slimjim]

very cool, love the vents, are they from a mustang by chance?

[67rstbkt]

very cool, love the vents, are they from a mustang by chance?

Thank you! And yes, 2013-14 Mustang I think. Got them on Amazon