Project SCUD - 1969 Dodge Dart

[Bjkadron]

OK... So If you are going to a Viper engine.. where is your Hemi Going? Did I mention I take donations for my project? haha!

Seriously though.. How are you planning to fit the engine in?

[ALLstrokedOUT]

Wow, the front suspension, the IRS, and now a v10!! Just when you think this build cant get any more awesome it does! I look forward to the updates Will, no matter how long the wait...
...Id imagine itll just take a bit of recessing into the firewall for it to fit, how much i dont know..i hope that extra weight up front isnt too much..

[Chadly B]

I'm kinda curious where the hemi is going too.....is it "Fer Sale?"

[wellis77]

Strange as it may seem, for me, I think the V10 will be an easier fit than the Hemi. Yes it's longer but I already have the Hemi setback about 5-6 inches from stock, so if everything works out, it will be as far forward as a basic small block. The bonus for me is that the V10 is more narroe and the overall height is less than the Hemi. That works out perfect for me because, as it sits, the Hemi does not have much clearance under the cowl and I already have to build custom headers with the Hemi because it's such a tight fit between the frame rails, I can't get ANY generally available header to fit. All in all, I really think this will be a better fit than the Hemi. In a stock A-body, probably not so, but in my case the firewall is already gone and the current engine is already recessed. The question now is, how much further will I have to go with it?

As for the Hemi, it will live on, but in somebody else's build. It's not officially for sale yet since I'm not in the States to rip it out of the car. I do hope to have it sold before I get back in December so I can take it out and get it gone... If interested pm me, you have plenty of time of save... It's an 04 truck engine converted to a car, AEM programmable ECM w/ harness, LX SRT manifolds that have been tweaked a bit to pull them in to the block a bit more, one off sheet metal valve covers, and a T-56 bellhousing to go with it to if someone wants to do the swap. Comes with all the accessories, needs a belt, starter, and flywheel/clutch. It is set up to run throttle by wire. Guy I bought it from is a Chrysler engineer and had it in a '68 Dart with throttle by wire.

[RicerwannaB]

Awesome will, This thing is going to be SICK with the V10 in it. Glad you chose to go that route over the Hemi! You totally just stepped it up to the next level!

[wellis77]

Hey Charlie, good to hear from you. How things going down in K-zoo? Any progress on the Goat?

[aj400v8]

I'm new here but your project really caught my interest!!! It's so cool to see you build this chassis like you are! Very cool. By the way... yes thumbs up on the Viper theme! I happen to own a 2008 Viper coupe & I love it! Get back to the states so we can see this thing finished!

[RicerwannaB]

No, no progress yet. It's still as stock as ever, I'm still torn on what I want to do with it. Until I'm 100% positive i don't want to do anything, and to make it all worse two weeks ago it won second top honors at a local car show out of about 225+/- cars. Right now I'm just trying to find that perfect median that won't take away from the classic feel, but still give it the modern edge I want on the track and on the street.

Im gonna measure 5 times on this one and cut once, unlike my usual forte where I just dive in heads first and go balls out. I want to keep this one for a long time, and Im done with having multiple "project" cars for the time being.

[chopsmitty]

:razz: Will, I've got a nice looking Viper engine in my shop if you're engine gets lost in shipment...

[wellis77]

I think the technical term is, PUNK!!! No pics, just harassment???

How did things turn out at Sturgis?

[chopsmitty]

Very late night at work and then had to get that heavy chunk off the trailer and tucked into the corner. I'll take a pic when I get the gift wrapping off in the very near future.

Sturgis was great. Our bike didn't place, but then we brought a rider, not a show piece. Made a ton of contacts and got some great exposure. See what comes of it?

[wellis77]

Glad to hear it things turned out well. I started wondering why you were still awake... Chat with you soon Greg.

[irregal83]

This build is awesome, the car is sweet! looking forward to updates!

[wellis77]

Thanks a bunch. I'm getting excited now, parts are on order and flowing in along with tools and such. Gonna be a great Christmas!

[rfalker1]

Will I can only imagine how much all your parts cost you .... I can't imagine

[wellis77]

Unfortunately I'm keeping a spread sheet of all my costs... I don't have to imagine, would probably be better if I did.

[Bjkadron]

Unfortunately I'm keeping a spread sheet of all my costs... I don't have to imagine, would probably be better if I did.

HAHA! I know what you mean! it hurts... But it has saved me some money too..

[wellis77]

I hear you Benjamin, it can hurt. It has saved me a few bucks too, unfortunately I don't track what it saves me, only what it costs me...

[kmdracer]

Nice so far. Subscribing to keep track!

[wellis77]

Thanks kmdracer! I'll keep part updates coming as they arrive, building is still a few months away. Cool stuff coming in very soon though!

[kmdracer]

No problem. I do understand how things can take years sometimes...I have a 92 Camaro that I bought dirt cheap years ago to make into a street/ track car. It's still just sitting in the back yard collecting leaves, lol

[rfalker1]

I keep, track of mine too and right when I say I am finished buying, bam here comes something else.. but I do think I am about done know.. after the parking brake kit for my brakes and my billet hinges, billet wiper and light knobs and my billet gas cap, led parking lamp kit and new front spoiler...

I think I am finished... I hope I am finished

[wellis77]

I'm a long ways from finished. A lot of big things still to come too so it will get worse before better. On a fun note, I got these pics from Perry at PTS of my rear shockwaves. I can't wait to get back to the states so I can get back to building and put this haus on the ground. The horseshoe allows the CV to run through while keeping the shock on the axle center line. Love my Viper stuff...

Huge thanks goes to Ride Tech for working with me on building and to Perry for setting me up.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/08/file70-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/08/file71-1.jpg

Getting ready to order some glass parts next, then suspension pieces, then more tools and miscellaneous stuff. WOOHOO!!! I love parts season, but not as much as build season.

[wellis77]

More parts trickling in. Just picked up a pair of 'glass fenders. They are brand new US Body pieces bought from a guy that decided on steel instead; half off $$$. Would have preferred AAR but I'm not going to complain saving $400 plus shipping, for now anyway. When I start fitting it may be a different story... 'Glass deck lid on order as well. Got a package with some miscellaneous things from Chris Alston, package from Ballistic fab, my Brownline Torque wrench is in house, along with some other miscellaneous goodies.

I hate not being around to play with all my new junk! But I sure do love new parts. 3.5 months...

[rfalker1]

Niceeee... I guess u are saying fiberglass fenders by glass and that is so cool. I am almost done with my build and parts are still coming in, and I looking to buy a another car, something the your dart a run for its money if we ever meet

:wedgie:

[wellis77]

Yes, fiberglass. I'm pretty pumped. I have a feeling the fenders will take some work to make as close to perfect as possible, but I have more time than money so I choose saving the cash.

Glad to hear your parts are coming in too. Don't go getting too excited on another car, because my next build is a track car and I don't have authorization to start until this one is finished. Don't go being a bad influence Randal!

[rfalker1]

Well I have already became a bad influence. Sorry Will :angel:.. but this one is not a project, just updating the sound and that is it!!!

https://www.pro-touring.com/showthread.php?82715-My-New-Car!!!-with-a-massive-Turbo&p=833474#post833474

[wellis77]

As if this site isn't bad enough, now you have to go instigating turbo purchases. That's a nice looking ride man, should be fun.

[wellis77]

So packages have been arriving lately...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/file72-1.jpg

And I just can't stop looking at this, I freaking love them!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/file75-1.jpg

Other pacakges include:
CA Chassisworks
Ballistic Fabrication
Frost Fighter - if you want a modern rear defrost in your car, or you need to fix yours, check this out http://www.frostfighter.com/
New Torque wrench from Brown Line
I'm building a rotisserie so I ordered a bunch of hardware from wholesale bolts and McMaster
Ordered an Eastwood bead roller since they were on wicked sale. I'm gonna beef it up a bit and build a stand for it. Also planning to power it w/ a foot pedal
Another package in route from Ironworks, ISIS brackets (5 of those bad boys)
Fiberglass fenders showed (deck-lid is in production)

Monday I'm ordering my Woodward steering rack. Will also be ordering some stuff from Art Morrison within the next week or two. The good times will be rolling like CRAZY when I get back in December.

[rfalker1]

As if this site isn't bad enough, now you have to go instigating turbo purchases. That's a nice looking ride man, should be fun.
Lol the turbo came with the car!!! it couldn't be helped, but they make awesome track cars

[Bjkadron]

More parts trickling in. Just picked up a pair of 'glass fenders. They are brand new US Body pieces bought from a guy that decided on steel instead; half off $$$. Would have preferred AAR but I'm not going to complain saving $400 plus shipping, for now anyway. When I start fitting it may be a different story... 'Glass deck lid on order as well. Got a package with some miscellaneous things from Chris Alston, package from Ballistic fab, my Brownline Torque wrench is in house, along with some other miscellaneous goodies.

I hate not being around to play with all my new junk! But I sure do love new parts. 3.5 months...


Well, If you get really upset during fitting... I can help them go away! haha! Mine is more race than show right now anyway.

Looks Good! Stuff trickling in is always good.

[chopsmitty]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/IMG_0825-1.jpg

[wellis77]

Best post of the day! So, that's my engine...

8.0 L, 488 ci, 450 hp, 490 ft lbs, all aluminum, long as the day. A couple accufab throttle bodies, cam, head & intake work, 600 hp at the wheels and 0 gas mileage.

Thanks Greg!

Also a big thanks to Frank @ Prodigy for picking the engine up, recrating it, and shipping it off.

[Bryce]

Nice looking parts Will!

[droptop73]

Nice!

[Chadly B]

Hurry Christmas!!!!

[wellis77]

Thanks Jeff. Hopefully we'll be able to do some catching up in a few months.

Tell me about it Chad, I NEED to get back and get to work. In the meantime, I'm still ordering parts. Shipment from Woodward steering should arrive next week.

[craigs73]

wow this car is going to be BAD ASS

[droptop73]

I'm looking forward to it Will. It's good hanging out in the garage with you and Dave.

[ALLstrokedOUT]

Wow, that is a thing of beauty!!! I love the sound of a v8, but theres something exotic(? i cant properly discribe it) about the vipers v10 that i love, cant wait for the updates

Oh, that is one badass hood too if i didnt say so earlier!

[wellis77]

I'm looking forward to it Will. It's good hanging out in the garage with you and Dave.

Dave and his wife actually came to Zurich this summer to visit their son and daughter-in-law. His son and I have done some cycling this year and we all hung out a bit while Dave was here. It was super cool to see him and chat cars a bit. Definitely looking forward to some time in the cave with you and him. Will be lots of fun!

[wellis77]

Wow, that is a thing of beauty!!! I love the sound of a v8, but theres something exotic(? i cant properly discribe it) about the vipers v10 that i love, cant wait for the updates

Oh, that is one badass hood too if i didnt say so earlier!

Thanks Tim. I hear you on the Viper V10, it has a very unique sound bite; very different from the V10 norm within the German & Italian ranks. That will make picking a muffler difficult, I wish I could demo some and see what I like best...

[Bjkadron]

Thanks Tim. I hear you on the Viper V10, it has a very unique sound bite; very different from the V10 norm within the German & Italian ranks. That will make picking a muffler difficult, I wish I could demo some and see what I like best...

Try youtube.. There is a bunch of different viper exhaust systems with dyno runs and everything.

[David Sloan]

Very Nice! that should make that little Dart get down the rode!

Man you have to be chomping at the bit, to work on this thing. LOL! I know i would be.

[craigs73]

Thanks Tim. I hear you on the Viper V10, it has a very unique sound bite; very different from the V10 norm within the German & Italian ranks. That will make picking a muffler difficult, I wish I could demo some and see what I like best...

since you like the sound of the stock viper why not get a replacment muffler from the supplier? this car is gonna haul ass

[FRENCHBLUE72]

Cant wait to see how this all comes together.. I think if it was me id get a good shop to do all the metal work that way when you come back in december you can get more done??

[sweet motion]

Thanx 4 the info about the 69 camaro door handles.I just registered yesterday so i gotta feel my way around this site.Love your car!Blinding green is awesome!

[chopsmitty]

I've worked on a bunch of Vipers, Will, and have installed and heard almost everything out there (we even built several of our own systems), I like the Borla exhaust. I know it doesn't apply to this build, but the Belanger headers don't do as well on the dyno as the B&B's do. The Belanger's use this goofy fire cone thingy in the collector that obviously restricts exhaust flow. The B&B's are wide open with a nice almost 'merge' collector. The highest horsepower we achieved on the dyno with just exhaust mods was a set of B&B headers and a pile of 304 stainless J bends and strait pipe and two Borla XR1 mufflers (3.5"). On your car, I would route the exhaust down the trans tunnel and take advantage of the architecture by using an x pipe just down from the trans. Headers will be the big power gains - and if you need help, you know I'm available.

[rfalker1]

awwwwwwww.. jealousy comes in many shapes my friend and that engine is one of them

[wellis77]

Cant wait to see how this all comes together.. I think if it was me id get a good shop to do all the metal work that way when you come back in december you can get more done??

I have already spoke with one guy who would like to look at the car when I'm ready, and ChopSmitty knows another local guy that I'm hoping to connect with. There are also a couple site sponsors that are on my list of people I'd like to connect with. Sure would make the entire process easier, and SOOOO much faster for me getting it on the road. $$$ will be the issue since I didn't plan to spend the long $ on the V10 this year. I'm getting some of it back selling the Hemi, but we'll see.

[wellis77]

I've worked on a bunch of Vipers, Will, and have installed and heard almost everything out there (we even built several of our own systems), I like the Borla exhaust. I know it doesn't apply to this build, but the Belanger headers don't do as well on the dyno as the B&B's do. The Belanger's use this goofy fire cone thingy in the collector that obviously restricts exhaust flow. The B&B's are wide open with a nice almost 'merge' collector. The highest horsepower we achieved on the dyno with just exhaust mods was a set of B&B headers and a pile of 304 stainless J bends and strait pipe and two Borla XR1 mufflers (3.5"). On your car, I would route the exhaust down the trans tunnel and take advantage of the architecture by using an x pipe just down from the trans. Headers will be the big power gains - and if you need help, you know I'm available.

I keep forgetting about your past employ Greg. I'm planning to build my headers with parts from Stainless Headers. I'm going to order a couple flanges and merge collectors from them and mock-up the headers from pvc. That will allow me to determine routing for the steering shaft and headers before ordering up the 304 j-bends for building them. Stainless Headers has some great tutorial on their website about building your own so I'm going to give it a try; I'm sure I'll be enlisting your help. I'll have to look into the XR-1, see if I can find some video for it. The plan for the x-pipe is right down the tunnel as well, then exhaust through the rear crossmember and probably under the center chunk. Not sure if mufflers will be before or after the center. Hoping to be able to mock up all the exhaust once it's on the ground.

Gonna be some late nights and early mornings in Grand Rapids come December... Eyeballing tickets for February too.

[wellis77]

More parts for me! It's killing me not to be able to do anything with these!

Woodward Steering Rack & Pinion and Tie Rod adjusting sleeves front and rear...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/file79-1.jpg

Joe's Racing Bearing Mount Upper Control Arms that will be used in both the front and rear... I owe thanks to Ray (454Bug) for inspiring these bad boys.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/file78-1.jpg

RideTech Compressor and Valve Block...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/file80-1.jpg

RideTech 3 Gallon Tank... (and uber fat guard cat)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/file81-1.jpg

I've also designed a bracket that will clamp around the air tank that will hold both the compressor and the valve block. All of it will be mounted under the car between the frame rails. Will work out AWESOME, and save some space in the trunk.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/airtankmount-1.jpg

[FRENCHBLUE72]

Nice parts .....

[Motorcitydak]

Nice hat

[wellis77]

Yeah, the hat is HOT! Was the hoping the T-shirt would be black; white makes me look fat. Beggars can't be choosers...

[Bryce]

Nice Parts!

[droptop73]

X2 Very nice parts. December is coming soon!

[wellis77]

Not soon enough Jeff.

Thanks Bryce.

[linkstar69]

Nothing like a nice pile of new parts to make you feel good.

[SickSpeedMonte]

Thanks Tim. I hear you on the Viper V10, it has a very unique sound bite; very different from the V10 norm within the German & Italian ranks. That will make picking a muffler difficult, I wish I could demo some and see what I like best...

I heard a while back that the Viper V10 fires two cylinders simultaneously.

[wellis77]

I read that too, but I also read that is not true. I do understand it has an unusual firing order, but I can't confirm anything. Too much heresay out there and I've yet to ask an expert.

[Bryce]

It fires two at a time. That is why it kinda sounds like a 5 cylinder.

[wellis77]

Mystery solved! Thanks Bryce, congrats again.

[Bjkadron]

Looks good. From the history I know, Dodge designed it as two smooth straight 5cyls then sorta merged them. Hence the double firing?

[wellis77]

I would love to speak with a Dodge engineer involved with the Viper sometime. I've also heard it was based off the LA, added a couple cylinders, changed oil/cooling; worked with Lambo (who was part of Chrysler at the time); also heard what you heard... Either way, I can't wait to drop this thing in between the rails and set it on the ground.

[SuperB70]

First, hey Will!,

I'm here also.

Sorry to say but man,

You should really do your home work.

If its based on LA, how can it be 2*straigth 5?

http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/V10_engine

And then 8.0 and 8.3 are a night and day.

It is oddfire engine, only three (car) engines in the world: old Buick V6, BMW M5 V10 and Viper. Also Harley is but that I dont acount.

Every evenfire engine has two pistons at tdc at any stroke when oddfire has every pistons it own.

If you start from 1. Cyl tdc and start calculating degrees when rotating you see two set of number all to way to 720' same in every evenfire engine. Then on oddfire they are different set of two. Long story short.

Thats why is difficult to find Ecu for Viper engine that can be used as seqvental fuel and spark.

Pectel comes first in mind... $ second 8(

Check Vipers cranktrigger wheel, it's not an 30-1 or 60-2, it's 5* 2/15' or something like that.

I have the dergees on my home computer, I'm on mobile device now.

[wellis77]

Hey Juhani, glad to see you. That type of homework is not necessary for me at this point, I'll let somebody else do it. At this point the only homework I'm concerned with is making it fit (LxWxH) and run. That's enough for me. I'm not going to go crazy with the build of it so digging into the ECU and going nuts on figuring out the how and why it is what it is and does what it does isn't my main concern. I appreciate you setting everyone straight though.

[SuperB70]

After reading my post, I've to come back didnt want to sound harshlike that. I had really bad day today, I do apologize.

I'm no mr. Know it all, just that I'm in same boat with you Wellis. Just that I have done little groundwork and scratching my head.

In your build, have you looked truck manifold? Maeby do something like that line oldschool Bb Ram headers?or do you need long primary tubes?

I think that it will fit nicely, its so lite too.

Best choise for ecu is original with an tuner like sct. Or Dodge offroad/racebox. I want total fuel/spark control but mine is going to be FI.

Has your engine (gen II) that same oiling problem as do mine (gen III) have, oil starvation on some rod bearings? I know how to fix that...

What trans are you gonna use?

Keep the parts coming, still little time before you can let yourself loose...

[bonecrrusher]

If I remember my history correctly - Lambo assembled and built the first few Viper V10's over in Italy...

[Motorcitydak]

Also not that it actually matters, the old 3.9 v6 i had in my dodge dakota (now replaced with a Hemi!!!) was an odd fire engine. I was made by dodge cutting 2 cyl's off the 318 v8. It just seems logical that they could build a v10 by using the 318 as a base again

[wellis77]

And the mystery continues... I do know the V10 install manual I have doesn't say anything about odd firing, just gives the order. Not that it's designed for those that want to know every intimate detail about the engine.

[wellis77]

The hood for my project is coming along nicely! I can't wait to see this thing finished. The next step is to have a mold pulled from it so it can be recast into one seamless piece, rather than the many pieces it has taken to get here. Should be done just in time for my return to the States and my mega-thrash.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/file84-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/file83-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/file85-1.jpg

[oddarve440]

super nice hood
cant you go back and start work on your car,pleeeees
this is an amasing build

[wellis77]

I wish it was that simple. Thanks!

[bonecrrusher]

That hood is going to look awesome!

I dont remember - but what trans are you putting behind the V10?

[wellis77]

Thanks. Trans is a T-56 out of a Gen 2 Viper.

[Bryce]

Awesome hood. If you make a mold I have a guy that will do carbon fiber. Just saying!

[wellis77]

I'm hoping for a Carbon version. The guy building it is pulling the mold and mentioned Carbon. I told him I'd be in for it if he'll do it. We'll see.

[rfalker1]

Niceeeeeeeeee!!!!!! I just want to ride in it whenever u get finished

[solarguy09]

Love your build.....Just a great Body style made better by you......Nice job...Mikey loves 69 Dart's....Especially tricked out one's like yours.....:1st:

[droptop73]

That hood is soooooooo cool! Looking good Will, see ya in December.

[wellis77]

Thanks guys. I'm looking forward to setting it on the ground, getting all the panels on it and getting a better look at what is to come.

Jeff, looking forward to catching up in a couple months. Take care.

[85coupe50]

What a great build... Hood looks great as well as all the fabrication to the chassis too. Can't wait to see more progress.

[wellis77]

Thanks. There is plenty more to come too. I just received new bent rear frame rails from Art Morrison and am considering reworking the fronts with some bent rails from Morrison as well.

I lived in Katy near the Katy Mills Mall for about a year prior to moving to Switzerland. Loved it in Texas! Welcome to the board, I'm looking forward to seeing your Fairlane build.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/11/file92-1.jpg

[85coupe50]

I lived in Katy near the Katy Mills Mall for about a year prior to moving to Switzerland. Loved it in Texas! Welcome to the board, I'm looking forward to seeing your Fairlane build.


Small world... I have lived in Katy for 6 years now, not far from Katy Mills (Westgreen between Fry and Mason on I-10)... Texas ALL my life. OK there have been stints where I have worked out of town for 1-9 month stretches.

As soon as I get my 66 mustang and 85 mustang sold I will have a completely empty garage to work in. I will then get the Project post going...

[SickSpeedMonte]

That hood looks insane!!!

Might be a dumb question, but are you worried about water getting on the engine? I want to do something with heat extractors on my hood, but I don't know what to do to keep water out.

[wellis77]

Not worried about water. I figure there are enough Vipers running through the rain with this hood that I'll be fine. If I end up having issues I'll deal with it and figure something out. Thanks.

[Dolmaner]

Almost december!! looking forwards to the updates

[wellis77]

So close, yet so far away...

[Bryce]

Will,

I cant wait to see your front suspension come together.

[wellis77]

Tell me about. Thanks for all your help Bryce.

[wellis77]

Recently pulled the trigger on some new uber coolness for my hot rod's electrical system, MiMod HP, a perfect complement for my ISIS. Includes twin 7" LCD displays for the dash that will be my gauges. We are designing those now and the initial images are pretty cool. Also includes a tablet PC that will be mounted in the center of the dash and will handle all the switching and electronics on the car. That means no buttons, knobs, switches, sliders, or anything else on the dash, just LCD gauges and a touch screen. In addition, the tablet will also handle air suspension operation, OBDII integration, WiFi, HD/AM/FM Radio, MP-3, CD/DVD, Back-up Camera, GPS, Vintage Air operation, eventually TPMS & Handsfree/Bluetooth phone capability, and almost anything else I desire at a later date. Oh so fun. I REALLY hope it works out to have someone do the bodywork for me while I'm gone next year so I can start on all this wiring coolness...

I'm back in about a week and a half and have oodles and oodles of boxes of parts to sift through. So much junk my photo-journalist can't keep up, then there is, of course, the super haus V10... First I have to get through a couple exams and a bunch of writing on my thesis so I don't have to think about IT while I'm working on the car, but it is real hard staying focused right now. Almost all the parts are in house or in route with a few more to order yet. Gonna be fun times in the shop.

10 days.............................................. ............

[rfalker1]

^^^ Nice car time!!!
But good luck with the thesis and exams Will

[Motorcitydak]

Will that stuff sounds awesome, don't forget that an ipad can be used as an accelerometer so you can show off just how many g's that machine can pull. Ive been thinking about putting one in my car just for that reason

[Chadly B]

Constantly upping the ante on this car......come on Christmas! Good luck with the thesis and exams as well, Will!

[wellis77]

Just trying to complete the vision... Thanks.

[racedaddy]

Constantly upping the ante on this car......come on Christmas! Good luck with the thesis and exams as well, Will!

I agree, come Christmas break

[Dolmaner]

I want a picture of this car for my christmas present

[wellis77]

I can make that happen Dolmaner... in a week or two.

[RicerwannaB]

Ive been waiting for this thread to waken back up! Cant wait to see the progress you will make this year Will, If you need any help let me know. I have been learning alot and working on my fabricating skills this past year...Cant believe how fast it has gone by.
Charlie

[wellis77]

Hey Charlie, you're up early... Hope your doing well man. You're welcome anytime I'm in the garage. I recently ordered a TIG machine so have a couple welders and a wicked list of junk to accomplish. Do you have my number? If not I'll PM it to you. Take care.

[RicerwannaB]

Couldent sleep, decided I would browse the builds. I dont think I have it anymore man, Got a new phone and lost all of my old numbers. Nice pickup on the new TIG, Ive yet to get my hands on one. My MIG is really solid, built alot of custom projects this summer for other people. Looking forward to making some serious progress on this soon!

[wellis77]

As soon as I figure out what it is, I'll send you my number. Yeah, I'm pumped about the TIG, one more thing to learn how to use though... Have you made any progress on the GTO?

[RicerwannaB]

No, The GTO is still stock as ever. It took top honors at a local car show this summer. I wanted to work on my fabrication skills all summer before I tore apart my car. Now im ready, and im thinking Im going to look for another shell to build and leave this one stock, even if it has to sit in the garage for a few more years.

[wellis77]

Sounds like a solid plan. I'm already on the lookout for my next project, '74 Manta, which will be a dedicated track/auto-x car. Definitely need to get you up and melting some metal with us. See you soon!

[Bryce]

Will, I think you do the same amount of work in two weeks as I do in an entire year.

[wellis77]

Difference is, you're driving yours and don't HAVE to work on it. I have a huge list to accomplish this year and can't wait to get to work. I think it will be some late nights.

[SVTforme]

You day will come :). I remember when I thought I would never be driving my car.. and that was only 6 months ago :). It is amazing how many parts and pieces you can leave out and still have a car that runs and drives.

I would hate to think of the amount of time sitting there staring at the wall trying to figure out how I was going to do a certain thing along the way. That's the problem with taking on something noone has done before as I am sure you can relate to. Nice to see all the people around here that like to go well outside the box.

Car looks great - you have almost pushed me to the point of modifying an otherwise stock hood.. as it is one of the few parts left that is stock.

You need to post some pics of the MiMod plans..

[wellis77]

As soon as I get images of finished designs I'll post them. Thanks. I loved the Torino build, BIG BIG BIG inspiration for me. Now go cut up that hood!!!

[rossmacd]

How is this coming? You're state side working on It, aren't you?

[wellis77]

Just got in to Chicago. Started today's travels at 10 p.m. eastern time last night. Will be in Michigan by 6:45. Can't wait, what a long freaking day! So much fun I will have, very soon!

[Dolmaner]

looking forward to it!

[wellis77]

You ever had that moment in your build where you feel you're in over your head? Yeah, me too...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/file94-1.jpg

[frojoe]

What are you talking about.... blank canvas!! :D

[tommycomfort]

Too late to feel over your head, we're all depending on you. Get this thing on the road and enjoy it!

[Bryce]

That woodward rack looks sick!!!!!!!!

[Bjkadron]

You ever had that moment in your build where you feel you're in over your head? Yeah, me too...


Well, if you get fed up and just decide to just give up and throw it all out... I would be glad to help you clear it all... I won't even charge you for removal! Can't beat that deal can you?

But yeah, I know what you mean...

[Ron.in.SoCal]

That woodward rack looks sick!!!!!!!!

I was thinking the same thing Bryce. No one makes a nicer unit!

[GRNOVA]

Hey Will welcome Back! I Saw the Snake screen. Sweet!

[Motorcitydak]

Awesome that you are finally able to lay your hands on those parts. I trust that you are out there rite now working on it. Too bad you did not get in earlier. I think it was 55 or so a couple days ago

[Bryce]

I was thinking the same thing Bryce. No one makes a nicer unit!

What can I say, I enjoy a good rack!

[solarguy09]

This is going to be one sweet build...

I will be watching this Dart come together.

Very nice..

[racedaddy]

Glad you made it back safely. I'm sure many others like my self have been anticipating your return.

[BCHALK22]

Been watching this thing for a bit now cant wait to see more progress this is a bad ass build. I have read through this build a couple times now and caught myself looking at a couple Darts on Craigslist the other day as a daily driver. I couldnt figure out why but i logged on and saw your build again and realized that this build would make even a Chevy guy want one.

[shepherd1]

I had a 1969 Dart it was a GTS 440 car, built it for drag racing. I really miss that car, should have kept it.

[RicerwannaB]

Lookin good man! Can't wait to get up there see some progress.

[wellis77]

Thanks for the comments guys. Not much to the car happened over the weekend. A lot of time getting junk organized, the garage cleaned, built a new welding cart for both welders and the plasma, figuring a few things out, today will start cutting and melting metal going to be great fun... Pics to come.

[Motorcitydak]

Bout time Will, we have been waiting....

[wellis77]

So I had my first full day of working on junk. Disassemble, cut, grind, weld... Doesn't look like much got done but it really was quite a bit.

Out with the old...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/file97-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/file98-1.jpg

Prepping the new. Will have this in today and hopefully have the front out as well.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/file99-1.jpg

Prepping the front...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/file100-1.jpg

My new big block, in house...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/file101-1.jpg

[FRENCHBLUE72]

MMMMMMMMMMMMMMM viper...

[Dolmaner]

are you planning side exhuast?

[wellis77]

I was planning side exhaust, and haven't completely ruled it out, but for drivability will probably do rear exit. See if I can pick up some Gen 2 exhaust tips or something.

[rfalker1]

I vote for side exhaust... if u got another daily driver available. HAve fun working!!

[rfalker1]

I vote for side exhaust... if u got another daily driver available. HAve fun working!!
and have u saw this!!

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Dodge-Charger-DODGE-CHARGER-1968-R-T-2006-VIPER-POWERED-6-SPD-/220914356688?pt=US_Cars_Trucks&hash=item336f8591d0

[wellis77]

I hadn't seen that yet Randal but it looks like a lot of fun...

Some of yesterdays, after an interruption by a planned doctor appointment. I sold the Hemi so I pulled it and began crating it up. Then it was on to finishing up the rear frame rails. What a long process that was; fit, grind, fit, grind, fit, grind, fit, grid, etc. Once I like the fit I braced the crap out of everything and welded the front of the rails solid. Then moved on to the rear, same process, cut, fit, grind, fit, grind, fit, grind... Still have a bit more grinding to do to get the fit so I'm 100% satisfied with it but that will be finished this morning after I finish crating the engine. Then weld them solid and move to the front. Here is a pic of the rear rails after I welded the front half and began fitting the rear half.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/file103-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/file102-1.jpg

more to come today...

[linkstar69]

Looking great man

[droptop73]

Nice progress Will! It was good to visit this afternoon.

[wellis77]

Thanks Jeff, it was great catching up.

Some progress that Jeff has already seen.

Rear rails are finished; less some grinding on a few welds (I'm still not the best welder, but I'm getting better). REAL happy with how these came out too!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/file104-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/file106-1.jpg

Got the front cut off and hope to have the new ones welded on today.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/file105-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/file100-1.jpg

Also got the Hemi crated up and on it's way to PA.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/file2-1.jpg

[Motorcitydak]

Haha, send the picture of that engine crate to Alex so he knows how to properly ship something. The frame looks really nice tho, maybe ill see it some day

[wellis77]

Thought about that already, still wish I had a layover in NC... Feel free to come by anytime over the next week, I've got your bell ready and will have your trans in my garage this weekend.


Here's where I'm at as of the close of working time today, about 4:00 pm.

Front frame rails in and so stoked how they came out. Real glad I decided to redo them, costly, but glad I did it.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/file110-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/file112-1.jpg

Just a few bolts short of dropping this in so I can measure up the new back-brace and start bending tube. I will have it in tomorrow.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/file113-1.jpg

The fun continues...

[Bryce]

Nice progress.

[wellis77]

Thanks Bryce. The fun stuff begins Monday getting the suspension setup. Thanks again for your help in reworking it.

Had a couple hours before festivities began this morning. I have a custom oil pan in my near future. Will be moving the engine around 12 inches back from this position. Right now the oil pan is not clearing the front cross member. May even have to notch it but I can get about 3-3.5" with the pan alone. That should be enough to get where I need to be.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/file114-1.jpg

Also started on the 1/2 trans loop, lighting sucks.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/file115-1.jpg

[racedaddy]

very nice

[Bjkadron]

Looking Good!

[greg5436]

Will looked thru your build, my hats off to you for taking on a complete build yourself.lots of great work and fabrication.that mimod system will look great in your car. Keep up the great work and I like how you did your hood. Greg

[wellis77]

Thanks Greg. If my build comes out half as nice as your Chevelle I'll be real happy. I'm looking forward to seeing MiMod when it is finished. So far I'm pretty happy through the design of everything.

[RicerwannaB]

Its looking good man! Im jealous, I need to get up there and check it out. You going to be in the garage working all day tomorrow?

[wellis77]

No reason to be jealous man. I'll be working during the day tomorrow, have dinner plans tomorrow night. Will be in the garage until around 5. Feel free to give me a call.

[MrQuick]

looks good will. not too late to push that x member forward.

[wellis77]

That's true Vince, however, I still have a steering rack to contend with which is just in front of the cross-member. Really, it's no different than the problem I had with the Hemi before making the switch. I was going to need a custom pan for that and I still wouldn't know for sure if the intake would clear the hood until I get my hood and can fit it. The root of the problem is how far I channeled the frame into the body. Not that it can't be overcome, just takes a bit of creativity.

[MrQuick]

yep and a lot of cut off wheels, or you can push it forward 3-4" and mount the rack behind it.

[wellis77]

True. I'm going to mock everything up and see where I'm at. I'd like to keep the x-member where it's at but if the only way I can make everything work is to move it, I'll get it done. Hopefully I can everything else mocked up today and put the engine back in so I know where I'm at. Thanks Vince.

[wellis77]

Yesterday I got the steering rack in and the front uppers are located. Only tacked the mounts for the rack in place. Based on the height of the tie rod ends, I may be able to lower the rack a bit so I'll wait for the front lowers to be in before welding the brackets solid and putting in the bracing.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/file118-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/file119-1.jpg

[linkstar69]

Looking awesome.

[wellis77]

A little bit more progress today. Seems like I'm doing more problem solving than building right now but it's coming along.

A custom oil pan from Charlie's is definitely in my future. I pulled the pan and dropped the engine again; all the room I need. Will be a real shallow pan at the cross member but I'll make up for it at the rear of the engine. The sump on this engine is unlike any V8 I've seen. I'll have to snap a picture of it.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/file120-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/file121-1.jpg

[wellis77]

Thank you Stainless Headers! The collectors are smaller than I thought, building these might be easier than I expected. Bonus!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/file123-1.jpg

I've been waiting to buy this for a while, so excited for it. It's freaking awesome!!!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/file124-1.jpg

[GRNOVA]

Wow. Great work! You really jumped in with both feet. Yor going to pass me up soon and I have been working on mine for over a year now.

[linkstar69]

That gas cap is great, similar to where I put mine :)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/20fd0e32-1.jpg

[MrQuick]

hey will, it almost looks like you know what the frick your doing. Hows your anti dive? Are you going stock Viper?

[wellis77]

Wow. Great work! You really jumped in with both feet. Yor going to pass me up soon and I have been working on mine for over a year now.

Thanks Tim. You've got a super jump on bodywork though. I still have a bajillion years of bodywork to figure out how to do while I'm doing it...


That gas cap is great, similar to where I put mine :)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/20fd0e32-1.jpg

Nice cap linkstar, I haven't seen one like that before. Off a motorcycle? I'm either going to put it there OR in the middle of the deck lid filler panel. Probably the filler panel because my wheel tubs will probably be in the way of a filler hose.


hey will, it almost looks like you know what the frick your doing. Hows your anti dive? Are you going stock Viper?

Still guessing Vince. I'm not going stock Viper, I reworked it for my application then had Bryce fine-tune (more like overhaul) it for me. A/D is 54.5% and A/S is 52.1%. I need to play with engine location a bit to more balance the car. Now that I have my collectors I'll drop those in along with a seat and a make-shift steering column to see where I'm at.

[linkstar69]

Hey Will my cap is a aftermarket replacement for an late model F150, I have a friend who used a bike cap and it works well too.(not as good as yours) That location puts it behind where the stock wheel housings are however with the stance you're going to have you may end up with more potential interference. (Although I doubt it.)

[Bjkadron]

I vote for the filler panel. I never liked the gas caps that messed with the body lines. Mine actually isn't going to have one. It will be in the trunk.

[linkstar69]

I vote for the filler panel. I never liked the gas caps that messed with the body lines. Mine actually isn't going to have one. It will be in the trunk.

I don't mind the interruption in the body line when the cap makes a statement like Will's does. I'd have loved to have no filler externally but done here in Australia we are required an external fuel filler.

[wellis77]

Honestly I'm torn about where to put it. I'm tall enough, and the car will be low enough, that I could put it in the middle of the filler panel and reach it from either side of the car. I need to get a good close look at that area from the trunk to see how close my wheel tubs will end up. We'll see.

[wellis77]

Some of the work that was finished yesterday.

Started on the bumper mounts. Hope to have those finished before I head back Sunday so I can plan for the core support.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/file131-1.jpg

Continued work on the rear suspension. Bending tube, notching tube by hand (way tough).
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/file135-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/file133-1.jpg
need to finish the other side of this x-brace behind the LCA mounts. Should have that done along with the rest of the mounts. Hopefully will get to the shockwave mounts as well.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/file134-1.jpg

Having a stainless fuel tank built and will be running Vaporworx in it. More to come on that. Playing with the mock-up template.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/file127-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/file125-1.jpg

Two more days of work before a two month break. Hoping to get a lot done the next two days, but I'm moving pretty slow...

[wellis77]

Slow progress today with having to hand notch some tubes, fab brackets/tabs, etc. The rear is almost finished. I couldn't mount the shocks because the amount of anti-squat in the LCA causes the shock to hit the UCA, so I'll need to fab some rear LCA's. No problem though, I planned to anyway. Just have to do it sooner than expected. One more day to go...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/file144-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/file143-1.jpg

[edakota]

cool

[rfalker1]

It looks like you are working quick to me... I just got home and I haven't even seen the camaro yet... but drove the supra!!! Some things do not need to be that fast and that is one of them

[Bryce]

looking good Will, nice progress.

[wellis77]

Thanks Bryce.

Sadly, my time for this trip has come to a close and there won't be any more pics until the end of February. Yesterday was mostly spent cleaning and organizing the garage. Although, I did pull the engine out, move the steering rack down, and build new brackets for it. I began locating the rear diff but ran out of time with having to clean, pack, see the fam one last time, etc. That doesn't mean that progress won't be had over the next couple months though. I'm having a custom stainless fuel tank built by Eric Mueller and Mike Toupin of Mopar Engineering, I'll be incorporating Vaporworx into the tank as well. They will also be building my radiator once I get that sized up in February. Development of my MiMod system will also continue in hopes that it is finished once I return as well. So far it's looking real good and I can't wait to see everything when it's finished. Then, there is always my hood, which who knows when that will show up...

So, all is done for now. Took about 10 steps backward and almost 10 forward, but I am real happy with how everything is coming out. Still a lot of things to figure out and build, but all doable and I'm looking forward to my next visit in February. That will be when I can really put some hours in on the car. I can't wait!

Until next time, happy new year!

[dusterbd13]

so, are you guys planning on moving back stateside? seems like you have two complete huses, one in sweededn and one here.

progress looks good. you tend to get more done in a week or two then i get done in the entire year.

michael

[wellis77]

Definitely moving back to the States. Hopefully sooner than later but the job market will dictate some of that. Definitely not two houses. Just a flat in Switzerland and a family member's garage in the States. I've gotten quite a bit done but am looking forward to getting more finished and get it on the ground in March.

[droptop73]

Have a good couple of months "out east", hopefully time will free-up and I can be of some assistance in February.

PM the dates and I'll see about burning a couple of PTO days.

[Motorcitydak]

Have a good couple of months "out east", hopefully time will free-up and I can be of some assistance in February.

PM the dates and I'll see about burning a couple of PTO days.

x2, I may be able to give you a hand in February. Ill be off Saturday, Sunday and Monday for the next 6 months. I could spend a day or two out there if I have a place to take a nap in between.

It was really cool to see the car in person, looks even better. Good luck with school and buying more parts

[duvall408w]

wow very nice

[wellis77]

Thanks guys. Jeff & Steve, I'll keep you both posted on my plans and see what we can work out. I could definitely find a place for you to nap Steve. No worries. It was good finally meeting you. See y'all soon!

[triplethreat656869]

great work

[oldschoolmuscle]

looking good..

you have all the measurements on the viper engine... height, width, length... and a honest weight from the engine ?

[wellis77]

I have a manual for the engine that has everything in it. Haven't scaled the engine to see if it matches though.

[wellis77]

Even though I'm not actually the one doing it, progress is progress... A few weeks ago I received what might be the first set of Digi-Tails for the '69 Dart. Pretty pumped about these and am looking forward to getting back and playing with them a bit.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/01/file145-1.jpg

Also got the first pic today of my custom stainless steel fuel tank. Big thanks to Tincup (Mike) and edakota (Eric) for the work on this. Mike took my initial drawings and dimensions and between he and Eric, made it into a useable design. I ordered a fuel module from Vaporworx to run in it, has a built in sump, regulator and fuel level sender. Should work out perfect in my build. Can't wait to see this thing done. After it's finished, it will find it's way for coating in Tennessee before heading up to Grand Rapids. Something else I'm real excited to get playing with. Mike and Eric have been awesome to work with!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/01/file146-1.jpg

If you're in the market, I highly recommend these guys.

[ryeguy2006a]

Absolutely awesome. The work that you are doing to that car is amazing. I think you are taking pro-touring to a whole new level. Look forward to the updates in Feb.

[the dan]

Cnt believe ive missed this thing. Youre doing an awesome job! That tank is similar to what i did with my C10

[the dan]

if you grind the laser/plasma edge and the take the scale off the tubing it will weld so much nicer

[wellis77]

Thanks guys, and thanks for the tip Dan. I'll keep that in mind when I get back in a few weeks. I'm going to rework the rear tubes just a bit to clean them up and get a better fit to make welding easier also.

[wellis77]

Couple updated pics from Eric on my tank. Still needs the mounting brackets before being sent to Leanna for a paint job... Big thanks to Mike and Eric for this. I'm looking forward to getting back and hanging this.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/tank2-1.jpg

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

[ATOMonkey]

Just amazing. You've re-done more work in 2 years than I've accomplished once in 5, AND you live on a seperate continent from your project.

Top notch.

[wellis77]

Thanks ATO. Fortunately the re-work hasn't been too costly, just replacing steel and time. Live and learn, but I'm loving how it's coming out now and can't wait to get back in a few weeks.

[wellis77]

And the tank is finished, more or less. Still need to add a fitting for the vent tube, but that is on it's way from The GMR. Then off to powder coat. When JP has the new fuel vents available, I'll finish the system off with one of those too. So close to done...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/file147-1.jpg

[dug]

beautiful tank and nice work on the car all the way around. I for one wish you lived in the states so I could see some more progress. You really have accomplished more than I have in the last 2.5 years. No joke.

[ProTouringCuda]

Just my opinion, but it seems ashame to powder coat a stainless tank. Why not polish it?

[wellis77]

Thanks Dug, it surprises me every time, but I hear that quite a bit.

@ John, I'm powder coating it because I don't want it visible from the side. Even coated it will be visible, but will blend under neath a bit better. In a perfect world, there would be nothing hanging below the body line of my car. Unfortunately, if I plan that for my fuel tank, I get like a 16 gallon tank, here I'm over 20, trade-off... Your right though, it is a great looking tank and would look good polished, but other than wheels, there is no shiny on my build.

[Motorcitydak]

How is the oiling system planning going?

[wellis77]

Still not 100% sold on dry sump, but if I have to I've got it figured out. I may first try cutting the stock pan down and routing a hose for the pick-up along the outside of the pan. First I'll cut the pan down to the size I need so I can fit the engine where I need it, then I'll determine if I can rebuild the pick-up in the pan and avoid using dry sump. Two options, one more expensive than the other, but all will be fabricated in a few weeks, either way...

How's the work on yours coming?

[Motorcitydak]

Well the most simple way may be the best here. A little time making the stock oil pan work would be easier and take less time compared to building a dry sump setup. That would give you more time to work on other things and get that car off the jig! Its been over a year since mine has been on the ground, thats too long.....man i gotta work on that thing....

Nothing new since I built the rockers for my push rod setup. That stupid BMW took longer than expected but i think its finally all finished up. I have some bushings and bolts on the way for the pivot of the push rods to use instead of the needle bearings. Im hoping to get a steering rack ordered some time soon tho

[wellis77]

Yup, I agree, K.I.S.S...

What are you doing for a rack??? Did you get a look at the Woodward when you came by?

[Motorcitydak]

I want to get a Woodward rack as well, I need to talk to Bryce again and call up Woodward to figure something out. I remember seeing yours when I was there, looked sweet. Did you decide if you are going to use those rod ends for your LCA to clear the steering rack?

[edakota]

nice

[wellis77]

I want to get a Woodward rack as well, I need to talk to Bryce again and call up Woodward to figure something out. I remember seeing yours when I was there, looked sweet. Did you decide if you are going to use those rod ends for your LCA to clear the steering rack?

I'm just about to order a set from QA1 for the lowers. I may move both pivots toward the driver on the same axis about 1/2" too, if necessary. That will give me all the room I need. My experience with Woodward was GREAT! They gave me all the info, and everything else, I needed. Hopefully your chat with them goes well.

[ProTouringCuda]

@ John, I'm powder coating it because I don't want it visible from the side. OK - that's understandable. Just curious as to why you went with stainless if you're going to coat it. Seems like a steel tank would have been a bit cheaper?

[wellis77]

That's true, but stainless has a bit more longevity that steel. I doubt most people do stainless tanks for the looks, but I could be wrong...

[Bryce]

I want to get a Woodward rack as well, I need to talk to Bryce again and call up Woodward to figure something out. I remember seeing yours when I was there, looked sweet. Did you decide if you are going to use those rod ends for your LCA to clear the steering rack?

I recieved your email I will work that this week.

[Motorcitydak]

Getting anxious over here man.....what are you up to?

[wellis77]

getting caught up on sleep and running errands, what's your excuse??? j/k

The real fun is planned to begin tomorrow. Had a ton of running around to do today and got almost all of it finished. Tomorrow, it's on...

I got your package Steve, thanks a ton!

[Motorcitydak]

Haha, ummm...waiting on tax money now and contemplating buying new wheels for the car. I look forward to the updates tomorrow, enjoy the tools

[Evoix]

Lookin forward to seeing the updates... I can relate to being out of the country(though I'm in South America studying Dentistry - what are you studying by the way? think someone mentioned finals) I'm itching to get back home but it's still such a long ways off... I think car forums are the only thing keeping me sane.

[sokoloka]

I'm itching to get back home but it's still such a long ways off... I think car forums are the only thing keeping me sane.There's a few of us on here that can relate I think. I've been working in London since last September and have at least another 6+ months before I'll be back in San Diego.
Great place and experience but I want to go home!

[wellis77]

Seems to be a few foreigns builds going on. Glad I'm not alone.

[wellis77]

So I got in Sunday night and have been going on the car since Tuesday. Progress is pretty good, though I wish I was a bit further but I'm still doing well. Here are a few photos, more to come later.

Final engine location... (unless I NEED more cabin space)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/file155-1.jpg

For perspective, the vertical line is the axle centerline, in-line with number one; meaning that the engine is set back quite a ways

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/file152-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/file154-1.jpg

Engine mounts
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/file156-1.jpg

On to the rear of the car. Pumpkin mounted
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/file151-1.jpg

Almost finished with the rear, need to build the upper shock mounts and the tie rod adjuster mounts
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/file150-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/file149-1.jpg

Bis später!

[bonecrrusher]

How are you keeping the frame/welds from not rusting?

I mean I know there has been several months since you've worked on this beast...

[Bryce]

Looking great!

[Bjkadron]

Looks great! But how are you going to change the spark plugs?

[wellis77]

How are you keeping the frame/welds from not rusting?

Short answer, I'm not. I'm going to blast and epoxy it before bodywork begins.

[wellis77]

Looks great! But how are you going to change the spark plugs?

I'll let you know when I have to change them.

[454bug]

Welcome back Will!! I get busy with life and work and don't check in for a few months and you are making ALL kinds of headway!! Everything is looking great.

There sure is a lot of engineering going on in this ride! The frame fab work looks awesome. People are going to freak out when they take a look under the back of this car... That rear suspension and framework tubes look sweet! :1st:

Great progress. How long are you in for this time?

By the way, I just took a job in Houston and I am living just a couple of miles from the Katy Mills mall also.

One more thing... Where did you come up with that awesome Viper hood you morphed into your hood? I would love to find one to pull the vents out of for a certain project I know of... :naughty:

[Ron S]

Moving a V8 back that far is tough, but moving a V10 back that far is just (insert adjetive here). Love the build, I've always been a Mopar guy,and the 69 Dart is one of my favorite cars, loved that the designers back then could make something so boxy look sooo cool.

[SVTforme]

Wow - car is looking great. Rear section of the car is coming along real nice.

It will likely be time to rebuild the car the next time you need to change the plugs anyway :).

[Protour_Pinto]

Plugs last forever now!
Could do them like I did on my BBC Monza and make access panels.

[wellis77]

One more thing... Where did you come up with that awesome Viper hood you morphed into your hood? I would love to find one to pull the vents out of for a certain project I know of... :naughty:

Thanks for the words Ray. I'm having a ton of fun putting stuff on the car and it coming out the way I want it to. The hood is a fiberglass Dart hood with a Viper skin molded to it. Connect with Cleveland pick-a-part for the hood vents, they probably have some wrecked hoods that vents can be cut from. Otherwise it's buying a hood (@$1200), and cutting it up...

Enjoy Katy, I loved it there!


Moving a V8 back that far is tough, but moving a V10 back that far is just (insert adjetive here). Love the build, I've always been a Mopar guy,and the 69 Dart is one of my favorite cars, loved that the designers back then could make something so boxy look sooo cool.

Thanks Ron. Your Mustang, and now the AMX, are both big inspirations so your words are MUCH appreciated. It is nuts having the engine so far back and there are a lot of issues to work out, exhaust routing being one of them (thinking maybe the drivers pipe under the engine and running down the passenger side of the tunnel to increase driver foot room, not sold on it yet though).


Wow - car is looking great. Rear section of the car is coming along real nice.

It will likely be time to rebuild the car the next time you need to change the plugs anyway :).


Plugs last forever now!
Could do them like I did on my BBC Monza and make access panels.

Seriously not worried about the plugs on it, but we'll see how it all works out once a firewall/tunnel are in place.

[wellis77]

The rear end is pretty close to finished. Just need to add mounts for the inner tie rods and I'm good to go. Also notice the air tank for the suspension hung behind the pumpkin. I wanted to hang the compressor and valve block there too but I don't have enough room.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/file163-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/file164-1.jpg

rear suspension from the front
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/file165-1.jpg

Front LCA's are built, still need to add a cross brace and the shock mounts (tomorrow)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/file160-1.jpg

Close to having the front suspension finished, just need to add shock mounts and move the rack up 1.5".
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/file167-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/file168-1.jpg

Bis bald...

[MrQuick]

Looks good Will, Cab room...ehhh sit in the back like High tower.

[Auto Rod Technologies]

Looking good!

[Motorcitydak]

Thats some sweet work there Will!!! I see the stack of washers on the rod end for the tie rod end. What is your permanent plan for that? Also, I just picked up that set of adjustable reamers, let me know if you need any of em. Smallest one is .468 iirc. I picked em up so I can do the shoulder bolts for my TRE's like Bryce suggested. Also did you get to Tractor Supply? I just hit them up again today for another handful of 3/8 grade 8 stuff....$5. I did notice that the washers for the 3/8 stuff was not quite what I wanted (sloppy, holes were way over-sized). The 5/16 ones fit way better on the bolts so im using those

[ATOMonkey]

Exhaust suggestion... Put the driver's header collector at the front of the engine and cross over in front. Should be plenty of room up there. It'll be a slightly longer pipe, but since the engine is back so far, it may be a wash.

Just an idea.

[Bryce]

Looks great!

[FRENCHBLUE72]

Damn you do nice work keep it up.

[linkstar69]

Looking great, will be great to see this bad boy in track trim.

[wellis77]

Been pretty quiet in here...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/file184-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/file183-1.jpg

More when I'm awake enough to post. Back to Zurich tomorrow, had tons of exhausting fun. Big thanks to my friends Dave, Jeff, and Greg for everything, big or small!

[frojoe]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/file184-1.jpg


So... much... rim.. tuck......

[CruizinKev]

OMG wow nice!!! :twothumbs can't wait to see more!!!

[droptop73]

You will be duly impressed!

Have a great trip home Will. I'll see you at CHRISTmas. :D

[Bryce]

Will, did you get my email?

[MrQuick]

Been pretty quiet in here...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/file184-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/file183-1.jpg

More when I'm awake enough to post. Back to Zurich tomorrow, had tons of exhausting fun. Big thanks to my friends Dave, Jeff, and Greg for everything, big or small!

looks tucking low. seems you got alot done.


have a safe trip.

[dusterbd13]

hmm.........

i think youll have clearance issues with ants.
have a safe trip home. look forward to some good reading later.

michael

[wellis77]

Will, did you get my email?

Bryce, I did get your email, thank you. Just never had a chance to write back. I'll make those adjustments when I'm back at Christmas and I'm good to go.

[wellis77]

So where did I leave off? Yes, front's done, rear's done, back-brace is done, still need to do the front down bars and finish the core support in order to hang the fenders and stuff. Then it's off to body-work. Yes it does ride a bit low, 5" from the ground to the frame; but I've seen others at this height and they seem to be all good. The quarters are not welded in yet and the pinch rail flange has not been cut off so that makes the rear look a bit lower. A lot more to do before it's ready for the body shop, but should be able to get all that done, and then some, the next two weeks I have at Christmas. All in all, I'm real happy with where I'm at on the project. I couldn't have done it without the help of some great guys, Dave, Jeff (droptop73), and Greg (ChopSmitty). All their assistance, big or little, has helped me get this far. Still a few issues to resolve but nothing that will be too ridiculous.I'm already looking forward to the next trip, 9 months from now...

Not the best pics of the back-brace, but you get the idea.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/file175-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/file176-1.jpg

The hood, man this thing is freaking AWESOME!!! (fenders and hood to resting in place, more or less) BMW Interlagos Blue, sustained some shipping damage but just small stuff.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/file181-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/file172-1.jpg

The gang, Dave, Myself, and Jeff (not the best lighting, but it was getting dark Saturday evening)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/file186-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/file177-1.jpg

[wellis77]

And a few fun money shots, just for fun

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/file173-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/file174-1.jpg

After rolling it back in the garage with the new doors ('74 doors w/ no wing window, hate those things), 'glass fenders & trunk lid
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/file180-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/file179-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/file182-1.jpg

[454bug]

Man, Will... That is the ****!!!! :1st:

It just keeps getting better and better! :cheers:

[wellis77]

Thanks Ray. A long ways to go to compete with the bug, but we'll see...

[dusterbd13]

damn........

[Bryce]

Looks great!

[droptop73]

Did you sleep at all Saturday night? LOL All the cleanup and then still more time to mock up the front bodywork. Very nice!

[Motorcitydak]

DUDE ITS ON THE GROUND!!! Sweet, Im hoping to do that too some day soon, bummer you had to go back home so soon. It seems like you just got here

[Auto Rod Technologies]

Car is looking great. Love the tunnel!

[Hotwhilz]

Insane, nice work, great progress!

Ben

[wellis77]

Thanks for the kind words guys. Jeff, I went to bed around 2:30 Sunday morning with an 11:15 flight shortly there after.

[streetkar]

awesome build... definitly keeping an eye on this build

[CruizinKev]

OMG so much this

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

IT LOOKS GREAT! GOOD WORK!!

[Bjkadron]

That is the coolest looking dart I have seen in quite a while. One thing though... if you triangulate the top of the back brace it will help with the torsional stiffness. a lot actually...

[wellis77]

I was already considering doing that Benjamin. No problem to do that. Thanks for the affirmation.

[FlyDoc]

What are the plans for the hood? Are you living it the way it is or are you going to put some grill work in the openings?
That hood is so cool!