Project "Battle Wagon"

[CamaroAJ]

'69 Street Fighter Camaro. just picked up the car today, someone has already replaced the outer rockers, inner, outer wheel wells and 1/4 skins along with the trunk pan. needs a small section of the frame rails repaired to be a rust free car. going to be an autocross/road track/street machine.


list of parts already have:

2001 camaro ss powertrain, dash, wiring, steering column, ABS
Speed Tech Subframe with high clearence control arms
ATS Tall Spindles (well, on backorder)
List of goodied to come

DSE weld in sub-frame connectors
DSE Mini-Tubs
solid body mounts
stainless brake lines
fuel cell
either c5 or c6z brakes
9" ford diff with 3.50 gears and truetrack limited slip
Home built 3 link rear suspension with watts link
functional brake ducts, body aero mods, splitter and adjustable rear spoiler, defuser, belly pan
3" exhaust and building tri-y stainless 1 3/4 headers
18x10 front 18x12 rear wheels
OMP seats
LED rear lamps
oil cooler, power steering cooler possabley trans and diff coolers.
AMD aluminum body parts
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/04/0410001626-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/04/0410001625-1.jpg

[Mr.VENGEANCE]

niiice!

cant wait to see what you do with it.

[CruizinKev]

looking good! good luck with the project!

[94SNGLTURBO]

what color are you going to go with??

[CamaroAJ]

cyber gray and going to murder the chrome out.

[venturabeachpup]

What a great foundation to start to start with! I too can't wait to see this one develop!

[CamaroAJ]

camaro dash and full wire harness. (this is the second car i have done this swap too)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/04/0327001129-1.jpg



Speed Tech frame kit

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/04/0327001128-1.jpg



2001 LS1 and T56

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/04/0328001951-1.jpg

[CamaroAJ]

Update 4.17.10



got the car home tuesday night and pushed it in the garage. wednsday after work i got started on tear down.

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

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

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

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

found the floor pan was in worse shape than i thought so i cut them out

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



found the rockers were junk on the bottom half so insted of patching them i just cut them out



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



also insted of replacing the toe boards with patch panels i got a whole firewall assembly

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

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



went today to dayton and picked up the new sheet metal and have the drivers rocker mocked up

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



parts to install still

both inner rockers

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



floor pan

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



mini tubs and sub frame connectors

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

thats about it for now. not bad for 4 half days of work.

[19,69camaro]

Dont you just love what you think is a rust free car........well isnt rust free at all? Good work so far its nice to see you arent taking the fast/easy/cheap way out and doing it right. I have no doubt this will be an awesome car when it is done. Keep up the good work!

[MrQuick]

Aj, I'd brace that sucker up and get it to a blaster. Or blast it yourself.


looks good so far.


Vince

[1971CHEVELLE]

looking good keep us posted

[bonecrrusher]

Damn... lots of new sheetmetal to hang...

What "was" your floor epoxied with?

[CamaroAJ]

its the EDP coating that comes on the new metal.

[bonecrrusher]

Epoxy coating on the garage floor....

[Dons67]

GREAT start - i'll be looking forward to seeing this unfold

[CamaroAJ]

Epoxy coating on the garage floor....

it was there when we bough the house, you would think since we own a garage flooring company i would have awesome floors lol.

[69fbodyproject]

This is going to be a good project. Youve got a pretty good amount done in less than 5 days.

[bonecrrusher]

it was there when we bough the house, you would think since we own a garage flooring company i would have awesome floors lol.


LOL.... I know the feeling, I've been in the house 2 months now. I should have epoxied the floor before I moved in... oh well. I bought some epoxy from Griots Garage, I read a lot of good reviews on it, and I'll be going through those pains in a week or so!

back on topic.. new parts are always great!

[CamaroAJ]

thanks guys. i got the driver rocker done tonight and about 95% of the passenger rocker out. tomorow i'll get that all cleaned up, paint the inside to keep the rust from comming back then get the new one mocked up. if i have time i'll get it all welded in so i can start on installing the new firewall tuesday and floor wednsday. i have some rust on the frame rails i need to repair but want to wait till the floor is in so i have them lined up right. if all goes well i'm going to try and get the sub frame connectors and mini tubs done this weekend.

[CruizinKev]

nice! keep up good work!

[TonyHuntimer]

Looks like a cool project. I wish I had the drive to do that kind of surgery. How are you keeping the car from twisting up like a pretzel while you weld it all together? It seems like there should be some temporary braces keeping everything square. Are you puting a heater core back in, if not, you can replace the firewall with a new reproduciton firewall like the one you have...but without the heater core holes. It eliminated the need for a firewall fill-plate and all the work it takes to install it. Have fun!

[CamaroAJ]

i brace it to weld. so far so good.

i was going to get the firewall with the heat delete but they didn't have it in stock. i plan on smoothing the whole firewall so its not that big of deal plus there was some rust on the cowl from the car being sandblasted and them leaving the sand in the wiper area.

[Rod]

if they didn't charge extra for the rust, then it was a rust free car!! :)

[Bad94]

Nice project you got there.

Are you getting the new panels from resto world?

[CamaroAJ]

yes thats where i got them. had them in stock so i didn't have to pay for shipping

[CamaroAJ]

had the car a week now, heres how its going.

passenger rocker done

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

firewall is also installed and welded

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

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

[CamaroAJ]

floor pan is done

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

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

also added some garage art

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
there was something on the lens so the pictures are blury.

[Doug1]

Are you welding the panels in or using panel adhesive?

[CamaroAJ]

welding. i have seen some awesome adhesives but for what the car will be going through i'm not going to trust them.

also said screw it and bought a whole trunk pan that way everything will be rust free along with new frame rails. pics to come.

[Rick D]

welding. i have seen some awesome adhesives but for what the car will be going through i'm not going to trust them.

When GM went and tested 3M 8115 panel bond the metal failed before the glue, so GM made them make a panel bond 8116 that would fail before the metal. Not saying welding is not strong but the panel bonds are VERY strong. The best of the best is to panel bond and to use a resistance (spot welder). Although most super cars today are just bonded and riveted. Buy the way keep up the good work!!!

[CamaroAJ]

started the mini tubs and found more rust than i thought so i cut out the trunk only to find who ever did the rear 1/4's and outer wheel tubs did a crappy job so i'm going to replace the entire rear of the car so that i'm happy with it insted of repairing someone elses crap job. getting the parts next weekend so in the mean time i did he dash swap.



out with the old dash

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

mocking in the 2001 camaro dash

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

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

dash is done

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

[CamaroAJ]

since i'm waiting on the sheet metal for the rear of the car i figured i would go ahead and replace the frame rails while i still have a referance point from the factory frame rails



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

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

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

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



also fitted the dash filler. it will be trimed more once the windshield is in.

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

[CamaroAJ]

haven't worked on the car the last two days due to other things going on so i got a jump on it tonight because all the sheet metal is commin in tomorrow, friday and then the last of it saturday. i started off with test fitting the front sub frame.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

then since its trash night i wanted to get rid of the junk metal so it wasn't sitting around here for a week so i rough cut the big stuff out
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[CamaroAJ]

AMD aluminum body panels

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



test fitting the driver quarter

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



passenger door and fender

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



as part of the cars weight loss plan it got lots of aluminum including this front fender

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



test fitting the driver quarter

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



test fitting the rear tail panel (sorry about all the dust on the lens)

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

[CruizinKev]

very nice work :twothumbs

[CamaroAJ]

been working on getting everything to fit right so nothing good to update for a bit. got everything lined up and should have it welded together by the end of the week.

don't mind the door to fender gaps, the fenders are loose to adjust the doors.



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

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

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

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

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

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

[CamaroAJ]

haven't had a good update in sometime. i had some house work to do so i didn't get to spend as much time on the car as i wanted to. all of the rear sheet metal is all welded together and the frame rails are in and done. only got to work on the car a few hours saturday but got a solid day in today.



got the driver and passenger sub frame connectors installed

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

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

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



i didn't have any 1/8" plate to make the close out panels so i went ahead and got the passenger tub mocked up and the driver side floor and frame cut out.



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

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

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



going to try and get some plate tomorrow but i'm not sure if i'll get to work on the car or not for a few days. some more yard work to do and the house comes first.

[ArtosDracon]

That's a lot of aluminum, congrats!

[COPO-RAT]

Awesome project! Would love to make the short trip from Cincy to Cbus and check it out!

[CamaroAJ]

haven't had alot of time to work on the car since i have been doing alot of house work since its been so nice out. i've only got to work on the car one or two nights a week for a few hours after work. anyways lots of stuff done.

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

[Motown 454]

It looks great your moving along pretty good.

[craigs73]

glad to see another buckeye on here. not sure if its my computer or not but it seems that alot of pics are missing out of your post.

edit: must have been my computer because i went back and all the pictures were there. on the body panles beeing aluminum are the rear quarters? if so how are you going to join the quarters to the steel

[CamaroAJ]

rears are steel. panel bond adhesive would be the only way i could think of if they were aluminum. since thats part of the cars structure i don't see aluminum being a good idea for back there without alot of support everywhere else.

the pictures are on facebook so if thats blocked then they won't show up, i know i can't see them here at work.

[CamaroAJ]

new go fast parts thanks to frank at prodigy customs.

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

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

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

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

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

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



also have a new firewall to move my engine back about 4" to get the LS1 to fit the speedtech sub frame. again more thanks to frank for answering some questions about a few things.

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



and installed the 41 year old seat pans to save a few bucks.

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

[srh3trinity]

Nice choice in wheels.

[CruizinKev]

x2 very nice!!! :twothumbs

[Motown 454]

Very Nice! They look sweet.

[AtomicFirebird]

I think it is great that you are doing the work yourself. I was trying to figure a way to do my firewall, should I pay someone or do myself. I'm going to do it myself. I want to say thank you for the pics, they made it easy for me to figure out which way to go with my build. Please keep the picks coming. They are very helpful.

[CamaroAJ]

thanks guys, i can't wait to get tires mounted up on these monsters. i am going with the bfg kdw2's.

long weekend house project started tonight so i might not get to play with the car untill tuesday/wednsday. i think that part sucks, but the house work comes first.

[CamaroAJ]

got the tires today so i mounted and road force balanced them (all less than 7 lbs road force if you know what that means) BFG G-Force KDW 295/35ZR18 front 335/30ZR18 rear.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif


car at ride hight
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

only had a few hours tonight to play but to make the wheel barrow fit the engine it needed cut in half and 5" added
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[srh3trinity]

This is getting better and better. I like the idea of setting the engine back far enough to make a real difference and it is going to make for a cool looking firewall. The wheels look awesome with the tires mounted up.

[CamaroAJ]

i don't think its going to be a big gain with all the work. i figure with quick math and rough weight numbers its only a 2% swing. but this does save me well over 3k by not having to run an aftermarket oil pan or surp belt set up to retain an a/c compressor.

[srh3trinity]

I realized from reading one of David Pozzi's posts that moving the engine back doesn't really do that much for you. I still like the concept and the commitment.

[craigs73]

sorry but i have to ask are you using the wheelbarrow as part of the fire wall? excuse me if thats a dumb question:idea:

[CamaroAJ]

to move the engine back. need a way to replace whats cut out of the fire wall.

[overZealous1]

the wheel barrow is a great idea!! like the low buck ingenuity. if you could somehow integrate a shovel and/or rake into the mix, i will give you double the kudo's!!! haha

[CamaroAJ]

a rake would make a good start to a defuser on the rear!!

[craigs73]

to move the engine back. need a way to replace whats cut out of the fire wall.


thats what i thought you were gonna do i like the idea cuts out alot of fab time

[overZealous1]

a rake would make a good start to a defuser on the rear!!

even if you just used a rake to start the diffuser, lol. sorry man, you left the door open, i just walked through it. hahaha.

honestly, great build so far. love the wheels and gonna be sick!!

[bonecrrusher]

even if you just used a rake to start the diffuser, lol. sorry man, you left the door open, i just walked through it. hahaha.

honestly, great build so far. love the wheels and gonna be sick!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QoMspJqqVcA :cheers:

[CamaroAJ]

even if you just used a rake to start the diffuser, lol. sorry man, you left the door open, i just walked through it. hahaha.

when i get home tonight i'm going to mock up a rake-fuser just for you lol. a flat shovel would make a great side vent on the fenders.:idea:

[Nessumsar]

when i get home tonight i'm going to mock up a rake-fuser just for you lol. a flat shovel would make a great side vent on the fenders.:idea:

That might even look half-way decent! Love the ingenuity going on here.

[srh3trinity]

A couple of flat shovels lined up next to each other would make for a better diffuser.

[CamaroAJ]

A couple of flat shovels lined up next to each other would make for a better diffuser.

like the double decker defuser on F1 cars and the ALMS vettes and P1 cars? i like were your going with this.....

[srh3trinity]

If we are staying with that hardware store theme and you want to tie it in to the Battle Wagon name of the car, you need to get a handle from a Radio Flyer wagon and mock that up as a steering wheel too.

[CamaroAJ]

If we are staying with that hardware store theme and you want to tie it in to the Battle Wagon name of the car, you need to get a handle from a Radio Flyer wagon and mock that up as a steering wheel too.

can that be the shifter?

i think i need to go walk around the hardware store:smoke:

[CamaroAJ]

x-games this weekend killed me on getting as much as i wanted to done.

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

[bonecrrusher]

That firewall looks eerily similar to Tyler's ATS 50/50 firewall... LOL!

[craigs73]

hey that worked out very well but dont leave much foot room but good job man sure looks like you got done alot done

[CamaroAJ]

That firewall looks eerily similar to Tyler's ATS 50/50 firewall... LOL!

i was looking at the pictures of his car last night and said the same thing lol.

there doesn't look like there is alot of foot room. since the pedals are being moved back along with the seat and column everything fits good.

[craigs73]

cool glad to hear your going to have a lil more foot room cant wait to see more progress

[Mr.VENGEANCE]

you got it man.. id fugk up a wheelbarrow anyday.

[CamaroAJ]

you got it man.. id fugk up a wheelbarrow anyday.

is it street fighter enough to be in the cool kids club?:fingersx:

[CamaroAJ]

the spindles showed up yesterday so i got those mounted and the car on the ground.
now onto the pictures, this is ride hight.

spindles use corvette hubs and brakes.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[SamHatco]

Whoa, dude, now that's what I call hot rodden :cool:

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

Sam

[srh3trinity]

There is going to be a lot of real estate in front of the engine. That is going to look pretty cool.

[CamaroAJ]

There is going to be a lot of real estate in front of the engine. That is going to look pretty cool.

i have been thinking about tilting the radiator and cutting the hood like the corvette race cars. thats if there is enough room with everything else in there.:fingersx:

[srh3trinity]

I was thinking that laying the radiator back would look pretty cool too.

[CamaroAJ]

getting it sealed/boxed in would also keep alot of air from going under the car. i think the biggest pain of doing this will be mounting the fans unless i can get some high cfm units that will mount in front of the radiator (which is less than ideal).

[Ron.in.SoCal]

AJ - Nice choice on the wheels and stance. I was considering the Wc3's as well. Seeing them on your car pretty much closed that deal...

Keep goin' Man. Nice work!

[CamaroAJ]

been almost 20 days since the last update. had some things to do with my dad and some other projects going on like building a shifter kart.

even though it doesn't look like much has been done to the car the small stuff takes alot of time. anyways the firewall and trans tunnel are done. the frame is out of the car and speed tech's transmission mounts are cut off. tomorrow i'll grind the welds down and reinstall the frame and stick the engine/trans back in.

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

[Mr.VENGEANCE]

Yeah!

get it crackin!

[CamaroAJ]

has it earned it enough yet to put a streetfighter sticker on it yet?

[CamaroAJ]

after power washing the house for the past few days i got to finish the engine/trans install.

didn't take any pictures but i cut the speedtech transmission mounts off the frame and then smoothed the old welds. then i installed the engine and trans to where i wanted it to be with the best fit for the rest of the stuff i have to do to the car. then i bolted the transmission cross member to the trans and the mounts to the member and rewelded them to the frame. about 4" back from where they were.

for the engine mounts i bent 1 3/4" .134 cage tube and built two uprights. i still need to finish welding and add two supports to make sure the engine doesn't move fore and aft just in case. i tried aftermarket mount adapters but they were not even close to fitting so i went to lowes and bought some steel plate and made my own.

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

lower part of my car is the steering rack. thats with the stock camaro oil pan

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

[CruizinKev]

Sweet!!!

[CamaroAJ]

haven't had time to do a whole lot to the car in the past few weeks but here is what i have.
got the driver and passenger fill template done to make things look better after cutting out the package tray.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

got to wiring the engine in. i'm about done with that and then on to the forward chassis harness and then dash harness and then rear chassis harness.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

so far this is what i have removed from the stock gm engine and forward chassis harness.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

98% done engine harness done. i still have a few things to finish up once i build the cold air intake and go to jegs to get some more wire loom.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

also have the double pass radiator. it also will be set back 7" just like the engine. i'll be working on this more later once i get the bead roller for some of the tin work.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

also for the first time since april the car has seen sun light. still waiting on the rear suspension so its on jack stands in the rear.
when i bought it
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

and now

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

[sr73bu]

Awesome job! Love those wheels!

-Sean

[CamaroAJ]

not much of an update since its hard to take pictures of wiring.

got the fuse blocks mounted
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

the lamp harness and some of the ECM wires.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

the main harness to the firewall is done and most of the wires are to the location they need to be and just need tied up.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

got the EBCM mounted and the harness lengthened
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

so at work on friday we are throwing out all of the GM parts from when we were a Chevy dealer and i found this. its a rear HVAC module from an '03-'06 envoy extended.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

because of the '01 dash conversion i did and the fire wall mods for the engine set back i had a TON of room. after some mock up and then putting the dash back in it fit!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[srh3trinity]

Cool find on the HVAC module. I am not a drinking man, but dealing with wiring harnesses would probably push me that way. Looks like nice progress and the car looks great sitting outside on those wheels. It's gonna be killer

[CamaroAJ]

i decided to make my own LED tail lamps because i don't care for any of the aftermarket ones that are out. its also cheeper that the awesome billet one. its not done because i ran out of LED's but two thirds of its done. then i get to start on the passenger side and even more LED's. at least i'll be seen when i stop.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

doesn't look pretty but its a pain to wire that many LED's and not short them together.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

i seem to have a problem getting a picture of LED's turned on. this is 2 of the 3 park lamps on. it is the perimeter of each lens for park lamps and the center of the outside lenses are brake lamps.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

i took an angled shot to get a picture. when i take a straight on shot its too bright and blurry. brake light on.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

i also have back up lamps
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[Bryce]

Nice work but I dont see any resistors. Do you have them inline somewhere else?

[CamaroAJ]

Nice work but I dont see any resistors. Do you have them inline somewhere else?

there are only a few, mostly inline in the heat shrink. i did the math on it and the white LED's take more voltage to run so its 4 LED's in series don't need resistors. the red take less volts so it takes 7 LED's and then a 250 ohm resistor for the park lamps. the brake lamps are also 7 LED's and takes a 100 ohm resistor.

tested them for 20 minuets @ 13.8v and they didn't overheat or burn up.

[bonecrrusher]

Those lights remind me of...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

I like the DIY - and look great!

[shortrack]

wow!.....what a build.....please tell me you are a professional body man by trade.

[CamaroAJ]

i wouldn't call my body work anywhere near professional. i was a master certified vette tech at a chevy dealer until this year when we started a garage floor coating company.

[bart0510]

killer build! those wells are sweeet! keep up the excellent work!

[joeelutz]

Very nice! What are you running for pedals/master cyl?

[CamaroAJ]

Very nice! What are you running for pedals/master cyl?

tilton floor mount pedal box.

[CamaroAJ]

been working on the car but it was mainly wiring so nothing really to take pictures of. only have a few things left to wire but i can't do it until i'm farther along with my build.

got the pass through connector done for the fuel tank and wheel speed sensors.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

also got all the welds cleaned up and holes filled while i wait on the rest of the parts for the rear suspension to get here to finish up.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

got the forward chassis harness pass through connector mounted and cleaned up.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

also have the cruse control module mounted (and wired, not pictured)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

finished the brackets for the HVAC module and remounted the PCM and rewired to fit.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[Conrad283]

Sweet build thus far ... Very impressive

[Motown 454]

It looks great!

[Frankenstine]

Sweet build you got skills, how did the AMD replacement metal fit? as I am thinking of using it on my build when I start it. Are you doing all of this work in you garadge?

[tommycomfort]

Just quickly read through the 6 pages of build. Excellent!!! Looking forward to keeping up with it in the future.
Tom

[HOSTILETAKEOVER]

there are only a few, mostly inline in the heat shrink. i did the math on it and the white LED's take more voltage to run so its 4 LED's in series don't need resistors. the red take less volts so it takes 7 LED's and then a 250 ohm resistor for the park lamps. the brake lamps are also 7 LED's and takes a 100 ohm resistor.

tested them for 20 minuets @ 13.8v and they didn't overheat or burn up.

I hope there is some resistor in each circuit to prevent thermal runaway. As LED's (or any diode) heat up they get more and more efficient lowering their resistance and eventually they car run away and burn themselves out. A small resistor will prevent this.

[CamaroAJ]

Sweet build you got skills, how did the AMD replacement metal fit? as I am thinking of using it on my build when I start it. Are you doing all of this work in you garadge?

the metal fit pretty good. there is some tweaking needed and the left fender has a small crack that i need to weld up. yes all the work is done myself in my garage.


I hope there is some resistor in each circuit to prevent thermal runaway. As LED's (or any diode) heat up they get more and more efficient lowering their resistance and eventually they car run away and burn themselves out. A small resistor will prevent this.

there is. i have everything covered and tested. they ran for an hour and no problems.

just a small update. mainly welding seams, grinding and some metal finish work so no real pictures of that right now.

started working on converting the electronic HVAC door actuators over to cables. machined two aluminum bushings to attach to the plastic gear on the HVAC module. the mode door is a simple throw arm like the 60's controls were. the temperature door is not so simple because of the amount of room i have to work in. so i made it a push/pull cable. this is as far as i got for now because i have to machine a new more parts for the control head side of things and get a few motorcycle throttle cables ordered so i can adjust the cables.

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

also got the watts link today.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[srh3trinity]

That really represents two ends of the spectrum. HVAC controls to a watts link, both very cool.

[CamaroAJ]

small update because i had a small side project to get done first.

got some 16g and 18g sheet metal and made a steel box to block of the driver floor vent. since there is a lot of room behind it i figured it would be a great place to mount the throttle position controller for the traction control. fully TIG welded and smoothed.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[CamaroAJ]

got the passenger kick panel block off plate done this week.

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

then i machined up some spacers for coil brackets since i am moving them off the valve cover.

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

then i TIGed up the "T"s and bolted everything together to check clearance. then cut 1/8" plate for a base then TIGed he "T"s to the plate.

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

then i mounted the drivers side packs to the frame. i'll mount the passenger set when i get the other fender off.

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

then i took off the driver too and cut the hole for the door harness

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

then i stripped the paint off in the area of the body side of the harness boot and cut the hole.

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

i think thats all for this week. currently i am stripping old paint so i can repair some more cancer that i have been putting off. then i can get the rest of the body stripped and finish welding some small things that need finished.

[HOSTILETAKEOVER]

Great progress. Your wiring is really neat and tidy. Where did rubber boot / looms for the front doors come from?

[srh3trinity]

I like the coil mounts. I love the look of LS engines, but an uncluttered LS engine is automotive art.

[John Wright]

The LEDs look nice!...great job so far...looking killer.

[Jon Clough]

I like your idea with the modern boot to protect the wiring in the door

[CamaroAJ]

the rubber door boots are from a 2001 camaro. since i used everything from that car i have power door locks, power express down windows, power mirrors so the harness is already done for that. i'll post pictures of that later this week.

so my axles showed up monday. after dealing with shop i got the suspension from since november about them i ordered a set from someone else.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

they have ABS reluctor rings for the traction control/ABS
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

since everything measured up fine i could weld in the watts link bracket and put the car on the ground for the first time.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

also finished up wiring in the front speed sensors
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

and got the passenger side coil packs mounted
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

the corvette accessories arrived today from BuddyP, i traded my camaro stuff for his vette stuff.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

then i got the alternator wired up. had to rewire the factory harness since its different than the camaro wiring.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

been welding seams as well but those are not that exciting to see.

[LSfan70s]

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

Subscribing.

[CamaroAJ]

Subscribing.

i need to order more of those LED's. i also need to passenger lens since mine has a crack in it.

[LSfan70s]

i need to order more of those LED's. i also need to passenger lens since mine has a crack in it.

Since you are still working on those LED tail lights, you should consider a sequential circuit to control them. They are very easy to make, only 2 integrated circuits, a couple of resistors and thats it.
Like this one: Fun with LEDs (http://www.qrp.pops.net/LEDs.asp)

Awesome electrical distribution and cabling by the way. Thanks for the great pics :cheers:

[Chevelle LT1]

Car looks great; can't believe I hadn't noticed it before. One quick question, where did you get the pass-through connector for the fuel tank? I've been looking for something similar on my Chevelle.

Thanks,

~ Jason

[CamaroAJ]

Since you are still working on those LED tail lights, you should consider a sequential circuit to control them. They are very easy to make, only 2 integrated circuits, a couple of resistors and thats it.
Like this one: Fun with LEDs (http://www.qrp.pops.net/LEDs.asp)

Awesome electrical distribution and cabling by the way. Thanks for the great pics :cheers:

i thought about it for a long time and decided against it. two reasons, first i didn't make the middle a brake lamp just a marker lamp and only two lamps look dumb to me needs to be atleast three. second i think it would drive anyone behind me nuts on track days lol.

Car looks great; can't believe I hadn't noticed it before. One quick question, where did you get the pass-through connector for the fuel tank? I've been looking for something similar on my Chevelle.

Thanks,

~ Jason

i got mine from the harness i used from a '01 camaro. go a a junk yard and get it out of a J body (sunfire, cavalier under the rear seat) or a camaro/firebird, driver side behind the rear seat back under the carpet. take a 1/4" drill bit and drill for the rivet and wire cutters.

[CamaroAJ]

got one of my seats friday and started building seat mounts for it. its on adjustable sliders and i made the mounts out of 1/8" plate and moved the seats back about 4" for better balance. the passenger side is done, going to try and get the driver side done this week sometime.

mocked up to check fitment
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

seat mounts done

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

[craigs73]

nice did you cut out the floor boards to get the nut on the back side? the cars looking very good you want to come fab some stuff for me lol!!!

[79_GBody]

What's up AJ, looks like you been busy since the last time I checked...it's Rodney btw, I might need your LS knowledge sometime in the future, as I'm thinking of doing the swap this winter.

[CamaroAJ]

i TIGed up some boxes and welded the nut in before the boxes were MIG welded to the floor.

[craigs73]

sweet i need to do something like this in near future.you think this will be strong enough? where you live in c-bus aj? are you going to good guys this year i will be there. be neat to meet you. sorry for all the questions lol

[CamaroAJ]

1/8" plate is a lot stronger than the sheet metal mounts that are stock.

from what i understand unless something changes i'll be working all 3 days there. we are getting a vendors spot inside the building, my dad seems to think we'll get a lot of floor business at a car show.

i live in reynoldsburg.

[CamaroAJ]

What's up AJ, looks like you been busy since the last time I checked...it's Rodney btw, I might need your LS knowledge sometime in the future, as I'm thinking of doing the swap this winter.

jegs has everything you'll need in stock at 11th ave. for the most part.

[craigs73]

what do you guys do or sell and name of company? you do some awesome work. i was worried about it tearing straight off the floor pans meaning riping floor

[CamaroAJ]

www.ultimatefloorsbyrhino.com we do cement floor coatings.

it would have to be a really really hard hit to rip the floors like that. the stock seat pans are only spot welded.

[craigs73]

cool yeah you prob will get alot of ppl stoping. that would nice does it hold up to welding? i live in washington court house

[CamaroAJ]

we asked rhino about it and they said there isn't a product out that will withstand 1000* welding splatter. so i would imagine if its a solid color you would see little burn spots.

[craigs73]

i prob wouldnt get a solid color anyways whats the going rate on that stuff

[ponjohn]

Amazing build.

[CamaroAJ]

thanks john.

got the driver seat done today and the steering column mocked up.

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

[craigs73]

awesome is all i have to say!!! now i know who to go to for some fab work lol

[CamaroAJ]

started my HID conversion tonight since i didn't get a lot of time to get too deep into anything else.

started with these.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/03/938WA7403C-1.jpg

took some time to get them apart and not brake the glass.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

got the back side cut off and the HID lens fitted in.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

after everything looked good i sanded the metal mounting ring and the head lamps and used 3M panel bond. its awesome stuff if you have never used it.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[Bryce]

nice. I cant wait to see hw they work. It looks like the best option!

[Motorcitydak]

Just went thru this entire thread, this is a really cool build! It seems like its just going to be a newer car with a old camaro body on it, I really like how you are keeping so many of the computer systems working (ABS and traction control among others). Those headlights look really cool too, is there a thread on here somewhere showing how to make those? Id like to use em in my car, just have to use a 5.75 round headlight

[CamaroAJ]

nice. I cant wait to see hw they work. It looks like the best option!

i agree. i had the conversion bulbs in my C5Z and while they were 150% better than stock they were no where near true HID's.


Just went thru this entire thread, this is a really cool build! It seems like its just going to be a newer car with a old camaro body on it, I really like how you are keeping so many of the computer systems working (ABS and traction control among others). Those headlights look really cool too, is there a thread on here somewhere showing how to make those? Id like to use em in my car, just have to use a 5.75 round headlight

i don't know if there is or not. i saw a thread either here or lat-g but i don't remember for sure. i'm just building them how i want them, i'll post more pictures along the way.

[Damn True]

Pretty darn slick on the seat install. Any issues with helmet clearance?
Who's sliders did you use?

[CamaroAJ]

i have about 5-6" of clearance with no helmet so i'm more than good to go.

not sure who makes the sliders, they were on a set of those jegs sport seats and i kept them after i sold the seats. they worked very well on some kirkeys i had in my C5Z.

[Damn True]

How tall are you?

Just wondering if I might be able to employ the same method. I'd been considering pulling the seat platform like James did on the OLC car. He's over 6' though so it's a little tighter for him. I'm a scant 5'10" and shrinking as I age.

By chance did you make templates?

[CamaroAJ]

i'm 5'10" also.

yes and no on the templates. i did make them and used them to cut the steel out but the chances of it fitting your car would be very slim. what i did was mount the tracks to the seat and put the seat in the car with the tracks adjusted in the middle setting. then i got out of the seat with out moving it and slid the seat back while holding the slider. then i used a self tapping screw in each slider to hold the seat while i sat in it again to make sure that was where i wanted it. then i took the seat out of the mounts and built the back mounts first while the tracks were still screwed down. i test fit the seat after each mount was tacked in. after the rear mounts were done and i could bolt the tracks to them i made the front mounts. the outboard was easy, its just on top of the seat frame. the inboard needed to be 1/4" taller to level the seats, i had a 1/4" spacer bolted between the track and floor when i used the self tapper on it. the tracks moved forward about 3" and back about 3" for a total of 6" of adjustment.


got my oil accumulator today and got it mocked up.

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

since the space behind the passenger tulip is wasted space now i cut the sheet metal out. got the idea from a few cars i saw on here with dry sump tanks mounted there.

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

its an extra 3qt. of oil just in case i loose pressure at the track in a high G turn. after i finish the top mount i'll fab up a close out panel and use dzus fasteners to hide everything.

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

[CamaroAJ]

so since i got the seat mounted and the steering column mocked up i was able to build my steering shaft and cut the firewall for the column. i didn't take any "in process" pictures just the done ones.

it just so happens that 2 1/2" exhaust pipe works very well for a pass though when you have angles to deal with.
inside of car
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

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

shortened the steering column about 7"
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

then built a lower column mount since the firewall is no longer a mounting point.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

then i got the intermediate steering shaft done. i had a few GM shafts laying around that were being scrapped at work. the rubber boot is from one of the cobalt steering shafts. so parts from the cobalt shaft and a impala shaft were made to work. its also collapsible to reduce vibration. so far it works pretty good, once i tighten everything up to double check we'll see if it works. if not then i'll build a new one with double D shaft and joints.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

p.s. 2 turns lock to lock, pretty quick ratio steering gear.
p.p.s had to keep the true temper logo on my firewall. lol

[craigs73]

looks great you can come down and fabricate on my car anytime lol

[Motorcitydak]

How are the u joints dealing with that angle? Seems pretty sharp for a single joint. Id figure you would get some popping and binding out of something like that

[CamaroAJ]

so far its OK. i won't know for sure until later today when i can tighten everything up and finish the column mount. if it doesn't work then i'll have to redo it with the unisteer kit. this was free so it was worth trying.

[LSfan70s]

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


Thanks for the detailed pics, please keep them coming! I love this project!
Is that boot also from a late Camaro?

[LSfan70s]

This boot:

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

[CamaroAJ]

yes, all the wiring in my car is from a 2001 camaro ss. boots included.

[LSfan70s]

I just went through the whole thread (again). Very very nice project!
Would you share any tip/trick/advice with a stupid DIYer daring to use late Camaro (maybe a 5th gen) dash as you are? BTY, are you using the stock gouges from the 4th gen?
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[CamaroAJ]

thanks for the kind words.

not sure if a 5th gen dash will fit, i have never measured it to see. the easy way to install the dash is mount it in the car with zip ties and clamps to where you want it to sit and then build the mounts to the firewall. there is a total of 7 mounting points on a 4th gen dash, 4 across the top, one on the bottom middle and one on each side. i used 1/4" all thread nuts (they are about an inch long) and 1/4" round rod to make the mounts. the side mounts are 3/8" rod drilled and tapped for 1/4-20 bolts. the bottom center mount is the stock dash mount from the 4th gen that i drilled the spot welds out of.

the plan is to swap out the gauges. the stock ones do not offer me enough information for what i want to do with the car. my first pick is racepak but that will depend on what kind of funds i can get together. if that doesn't work out then i will use speed hut gauges and make a dash plate to fit in the stock location.

[CamaroAJ]

bent some 1/8" plate to match the rockers and tig welded a locking nut to the back side for my harness mount.

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

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

driver and passenger side welded in place
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

also started the sub belt mount.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

also got the console mounted the other day with some of the mounts from the '01 camaro
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[CamaroAJ]

got the nuts i needed to finish the harness mounts today. got them tigged onto the mount plate

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

then got it test fitted to make sure it was bent tight to the floor.

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

then fully welded and spot welded in the center

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

then got the stock seat belt mounts moved back a few inches because of moving the seats back a few inches that way i had the correct belt angle.

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

then i cut out the hole and spot welds from the stock belt mount.

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

then got the new patch welded and smoothed.

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

that concluded 90% of the driver side fab work. next on the list is floor mount pedals. should start on the passenger side tomorrow to get the same work done.

[CamaroAJ]

worked on the car for a few hours today to get the harness mounts finished up. here is where i started. i had a few people ask me about the in between start and finish pictures.

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

hole cut for the patch plate.

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

weld, cool, weld, cool, repeat

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

grind to finish and done.

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

then measured for the relocated backing plate and got it ready to weld in.

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

weld the four plug welds, grind, hit it with some 180 and done.

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

then i welded in the sub belt plate.

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

also went to jegs and picked up a few things for an upcoming project for the car. more to come on that when the rest of the parts get here.

[CamaroAJ]

got some sheet metal and got to work. started with a battery box for the battery mount. levels the battery in the trunk instead of it sitting crooked.
laid out some measurements
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

then i cut on the lines and bent the sides up
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

and TIG welded it all together
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

then traced a cut line and cut it out
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

test fit to trace a cut line for the correct height
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

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

then made up some fill panels since i removed my package tray. this was also my first attempt with a bead roller, came out pretty good for a newb.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

then tacked them into place after some primer/sealer
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

hopefully tomorrow i'll be able to get the fill panel done for the rear suspension and the trans tunnel mocked up.

[Bryce]

nice fab work!

[craigs73]

then i welded in the sub belt plate.

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

did you have to cut holes in floor pan for the nuts you welded on so the plate would sit flat oh by the way awesome work your doing

[CamaroAJ]

thanks guys.

yes i used a 1" hole saw for the nuts to sit down into.

[CamaroAJ]

been working on this some over the last few days. since i had to cut out a chunk or the floor to mount the rear suspension i needed to replace it now that the suspension is done.

the fill panel mocked up for the last time to check fitment.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

from the trunk side. i left the ends open because i need to notch the floor for the exhaust. can't do that until the fuel cell gets here.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

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

half welded, ground down and sanded
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

the other side fully welded and the 3rd link cover mocked into place. just need to trim a few things and start tack welding it in and then building the a box for the ends.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[Motown 454]

It looks slick, Very Nice.

[LM7_67]

i don't think its going to be a big gain with all the work. i figure with quick math and rough weight numbers its only a 2% swing. but this does save me well over 3k by not having to run an aftermarket oil pan or surp belt set up to retain an a/c compressor.

would the stock F-body alternator have cleared the speedtech sub without the engine set back?

amazing work btw

[CamaroAJ]

would the stock F-body alternator have cleared the speedtech sub without the engine set back?

amazing work btw

cleared the frame just fine. blocked the steering gear though so you couldn't hook up the steering shaft.

[CamaroAJ]

a lot of parts showed up this week. which always happens when you don't have time to work on them, got a few things done today though.

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

my used z06 exhaust i picked up off of corvette forum.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

cut off the important parts and junked the rest
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

got one valve welded into the passenger side muffler after i check for clearance. they will work like factory corvettes. open at 25% and up throttle and 3000 RPM, has to meet both of them not just one. they are 3" flowtech warlock mufflers. they are set up the same as Z06 mufflers but a smaller package and sound better (i hope).
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

the rest of the exhaust control parts are on back order so i only got a little bit of of the control wiring done.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

i did manage to get one thing done today though. got the cage built for the 22g ATL fuel cell.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

didn't take any pictures but i got front and rear C5 vette calipers. they should go out to powder coat soon and then rebuild them with stainless pistons.

[srh3trinity]

Are the valve going to be defeatable? Cool idea.

[CamaroAJ]

not 100% sure what you mean? if you mean can i control them, yes. i will have a 3 way rocker switch that will have full time open, full time closed and auto operation that will open the valves at 25% throttle or more and 3000 RPM. once both of those are met then the valves open.

[srh3trinity]

That is what I meant. I know on the C6's you can pull the fuse and have them all the way open all the time or you can buy a wiring harness with a rocker switch.

[CamaroAJ]

been pretty busy so i haven't gotten a lot of time to work on the car. i did get the other muffler done so that makes 2.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

and the fuel cell done.
mocked in the cage to check fitment and measure for the fill panel i needed to make.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

needed to cut the stock fill hump shorter and fill it back in.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

then using 3M 8115 panel bond adhesive i mounted the cage to the car. it holds the cage in as well as doubling as a seam sealer. its also welded in a few places and will also be tied to the frame and cage.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

after it dried i put the cell in.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

at the lowest point its 8". thats more than i had in my '67 and there has never been a clearance issue with that car.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[CamaroAJ]

been busy and haven't had a lot of time to work on the car. i did finish the the 3rd link cover today though.

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

lots of welding and grinding all day. it sucked but now i have to grind the bottom which will suck even more. i might just wait on that until i get it on a rotisserie.

[CamaroAJ]

worked on the car for the first time since my last update today. got the rear floor metal work done for the over axle exhaust. and also fixed a stripped out body mount nut. i'm not sure how much lead they used in these aftermarket floor pan nuts but 20ft. lbs is all it took to pull all the threads out.



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

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

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



then i got the exhaust notches cut out

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

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



i bent the notch covers out of 16g since thats what i have laying aournd.

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



then they were welded and smoothed.

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

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



over all i'm happy with them. its still going to be a pain running 3" exhaust because of the fuel cell but i'll cross that bridge later.

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



i also got a new smaller MOMO steering wheel and put it on to check fit. the adapter doesn't fit very well so i'll have to turn it doen in the leathe.

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

[bonecrrusher]

Dang - nice

[CamaroAJ]

got the driver and passenger inner quarter repaired over the last few days. haven't had much time to work on it this week but still feel pretty good about what i got done.

passenger side cancer and someones attempt to fix it.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif



new panel in place ready to weld.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif



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



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


really old picture of the drivers side but you can see there wasn't much left.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

driver side mocked up
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

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

and thats all for the rust in the back of the car. the only thing thats left on the rust repair dept. is lower windshied.

[CruizinKev]

good work! very nice :twothumbs

[CamaroAJ]

got my rear firewall figured out. been busy with things and haven't got to play with the car till tonight.



rear firewall mocked up

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



this is my second time bead rolling so not bad but not great.

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



then got it tack welded back in.

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



what it looks like from the trunk side

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

[craigs73]

new panel in place ready to weld.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif



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



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


really old picture of the drivers side but you can see there wasn't much left.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

driver side mocked up
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

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

hey aj where did you get this piece theres a guy looking for pretty much same panel for a nova on a site im a member of but i havnt seen one

[CamaroAJ]

www.resto-world.com they are in dayton and only deal with GM stuff.

[craigs73]

crap didn't think to look there geesh!! i got my lower quarters and outer wheel wells from there ok thanks again

didn't see one oh well thanks again

[Motown 454]

It looks great. Nice work!

[John Wright]

Nice seeing all of that clean sheet metal......

[CamaroAJ]

thanks guys.


Nice seeing all of that clean sheet metal......

nice not being able to stick a finger though that clean sheet metal lol.

[CamaroAJ]

haven't worked on the car in over a month now. had some things going on but they have settled down so i can get back to work on the car. started earlier this week with some parts i picked up at jegs and goodguys. this covers everything i did this week after i got home in the evenings.

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

since i didn't have a lot of time during the week i knocked out a lot of small projects i wanted to get done. got the drivers body mount access filled.

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

and cut some rust out and called it a night.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

then i bent up some 18g sheet metal and fixed the driver tulip that had some cancer. this was my first time using a shrinker so i'm pretty happy with how well it come out.

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

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

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

then some more parts showed up

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

got the hard part of running the hard brake line done.

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

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

[nicks67camaro]

Wow...awesome work. I just read through the whole thread and really like it.

[Mr.VENGEANCE]

has it earned it enough yet to put a streetfighter sticker on it yet?


shoot.. OF COURSE!

[craigs73]

hey aj any progress on this beast

[linkstar69]

Great build, plenty to take in for us watching thats for sure.

[LSfan70s]

hey aj any progress on this beast

+1. Any advance?

[craigs73]

COME ON AJ i need my fix :machine:

[FRENCHBLUE72]

What tube bender did you use on your brake lines for such nice bends?

[CamaroAJ]

Hi guys! Sorry, I haven't worked on the car since June. Lost motivation on the project due to somethings going on then worked on house projects instead of the car. Things have started to come back around to the good side of things and work has started back up on the car. Look for an update before too much longer.

French, its an imperial eastman bender I got from cornwell tools. The quality of the bender doesn't matter on the small stuff as long as you get the measurements right and take your time.

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

[CamaroAJ]

So now that I'm back to work on the Camaro I am updating this thread. I'll start with oldest to latest.

First I got the passenger front inner fender modified to fit the 295's without rubbing.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

Then I built bushing ends to a poly bushing and modified the SpeedTech transmission crossmember.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

And then I shaved the drive and passenger drip rails
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

And lastly I scavenged at the junk yard and picked up a mirror, home link with map lights and venture van door latches.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

Mocked up the new latch mount
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

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

Then mocked up the striker
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

Filled the stock striker hole and the vent.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[CamaroAJ]

Got the drivers door latch done yesterday night.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

After a lot of measuring and test fitting floor mount pedals it just wasn't worth the time and effort to get the pedals to fit right AND be comfortable in the seat. I said screw it and decided to modify the stock 4th gen camaro pedals. as it turns out it was easier to do than i thought it would be. Still have to mount the clutch master cylinder and gas pedal.

brake and clutch pedal mocked up
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

Power brake booster mounted
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

Engine set so far back the brakes are almost next to the alternator
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

Pedals modified to accommodate the seat moved back.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

Hoping to have the gas pedal mounted tomorrow.

[CamaroAJ]

got the pedal mounts done.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

and then built a box to mount the stock GM clutch master cylinder inside the car since i moved everything back.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

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

pedals done. modified a '57 chevy gas pedal. not sure why the clutch pedal looks funny in this picture.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

corvette engine stands and mounts showed up so this will be the next project.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[HOSTILETAKEOVER]

Im interested to know what you gained by changing out the door locks and strikers?

I too shaved my drip rails on my project. Its not on the road yet. I love the look but worry about the wind and rain with the windows open. I guess we are slaves to "form" sometimes ;)

I am really enjoying watching your car come together!!

[CamaroAJ]

the latches weigh a little less and look better. but they cost me $60 for the pair and I get power locks out of it. so I could have spent $100 for new latches and then another $150 on power door locks.

[CamaroAJ]

got the driver striker and vent filled.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

then got the new engine cross member built. I'm very happy with the way this one came out. notice the notch for the oil drain plug. also the bolts are recessed on the bottom so they don't hit.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

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

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

got the roof stripped
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

and the body work has been started
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

cut out the factory transmission cross member notches
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

used the slip roll and bead roller at my buddies shop and bent up the new fill panels. the kick out on the passenger side is for the reverse switch on the transmission.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[bhcustomdesigns]

Very nice work,you live in columbus your just 2 hours north of where I live.Great job on the car looking forward to seeing it done!!!

[CamaroAJ]

2 hours south is almost KY. lots of twisty roads to play on.

got the interior epoxy sealed.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

then I got a hold of a rotis to flip the car over.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

repaired some more rust on the passenger tulip.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

then decided to move the accusump to another location and fabbed up a new filler with a X and a recess for the A/C bulkhead.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

using a corvette fuel filter/regulator and put it where the factory spring pockets used to be.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

then got the bottom fully ready for epoxy.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

and half the inner roof ready too.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

and the start of real color on parts of the car. I used the stock valve covers and cleaned them up.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

The bottom will be sealed tomorrow night and then depending on weather there might be some body work started on the bottom or it might have to wait until wednesday night.

[linkstar69]

Looking great

[CamaroAJ]

thanks link.

its got two coats of epoxy on it now.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[rmk600]

Sweet car! What did you do to your intake before painting? Did you have it sprayed or you do it yourself? Thanks

[CamaroAJ]

Sweet car! What did you do to your intake before painting? Did you have it sprayed or you do it yourself? Thanks

a friend spayed it. the prep work was a joint effort, i worked on the intake while he worked on the valve covers.

180 grit sanded the casting marks out then light sand blasted to get the stuff you can't reach. spent about 30 min cleaning out the intake just in case sand got past the taped off ports. bulldog adhesion promoter then DP epoxy seal then 2 coats of K36 primer and wet sanded with 320. 2 coats of DP epoxy then color then 2 coats of clear. still needs wet sanded and buffed but that will happen later when its ready to back on the engine and in the car.

[srh3trinity]

Did you grind the coil pack bosses off of the valve covers? Can you tell me what you used? I have been thinking about doing that and painting mine too. I love this build. Tons of great ideas.

[CamaroAJ]

I cut them down with a grinder then put them in a mill to take them down more. Also you need to weld the bolt holes shut and grind them smooth and body work the poor castings out of them. Then they were sealed with PPG DP90LF primed with K36, wet sanded, sealed again with DP90 and painted. They might not be as cool as some of the other covers out there but modifying what I had saved me at least $220 on aftermarket covers.

[srh3trinity]

Sounds like a lot of work, but I haven't found anything that I like better. The "chevrolet" ones look cool from GMPP, but I am building a Pontiac. Did you weld the bolt hole in the boss before you started the grinding or do you mean when you grind it down flush there is still some of the bolt hole left and you have to build it back up.

[CamaroAJ]

When they are ground down there is still dimples in the cover that need filled.

[CamaroAJ]

We started the body work on the firewall, it need a skim coat and sanded then it's ready for primer then work will start on the bottom side of the floor.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif




Bent up the steam tubes.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif




Got a lot of the parts back from paint, reassembled the throttle body.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif




Modified the slot in the bottom of the factory frame rail to put my corvette frame pucks in so I don't chip the paint on a lift.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif




Tig welded a 1/4" round rod frame then welded it into the trans tunnel to stiffen the hole.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif




Fabed up a new passenger side fender mount out of 3 pieces of 16g steel. Not bad for a body hammer and a body dolly.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[CamaroAJ]

while it doesn't appear that there is a lot done (at least to me anyways) i have been doing a lot on the car that i am just not going to show until the car is done as some of it might make it into a production run.

machined some bulkheads for the passenger side brake line and the driver side brake, fuel and return lines.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

then finished the fuel lines back to the fuel cooler and trunk bulk heads and the brake lines.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

the rear sections of fuel lines are covered in heat tape then cloth heat shrink.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

then i started mounting the diff. cooler. there will also be a trans cooler on the other side in the same place.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[rmk600]

a friend spayed it. the prep work was a joint effort, i worked on the intake while he worked on the valve covers.

180 grit sanded the casting marks out then light sand blasted to get the stuff you can't reach. spent about 30 min cleaning out the intake just in case sand got past the taped off ports. bulldog adhesion promoter then DP epoxy seal then 2 coats of K36 primer and wet sanded with 320. 2 coats of DP epoxy then color then 2 coats of clear. still needs wet sanded and buffed but that will happen later when its ready to back on the engine and in the car.

Damn.. that's a lot of work but they turned out awesome from the pictures!

[CamaroAJ]

yeah it was a lot of work. I really didn't want to paint the intake but even on my car sometimes I don't get a say lol.

I didn't like how the plumbing would run on the first cooler duct I made so I started over.

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

both of the ready for sand blasting then paint.

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

passenger side transmission cooler

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

then we got both of the wheel well lips cut and welded.

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

to match the rear frame rail pucks I have I laid out the same pattern in the sub frame so much to the pleasure of my painter I won't chip the paint when I put the car on a lift or jack it up.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

rough cut the slits
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

then finished by grinding the rest and finishing the edges
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

then to finish this update, the rear suspension links and front steering arms back from paint.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[linkstar69]

Awesome car.

[rmk600]

Lots of cool fab work! I really like the brake/fuel line setup. I wanna do that on my next build. When you drilled the holes what went inside them for threads? Sorry but I'm kinda new to the fab stuff.

[CamaroAJ]

Lots of cool fab work! I really like the brake/fuel line setup. I wanna do that on my next build. When you drilled the holes what went inside them for threads? Sorry but I'm kinda new to the fab stuff.


the fuel lines are 1/8" pipe and 1/4" pipe thread bungs welded onto spacers. the brake line ones are 1/8" pipe drilled into solid 5/8" rod. much cleaner looking than running the lines over the frame rail.

[HOSTILETAKEOVER]

Once again; your fit and finnish work is bar none the best I've seen!

Where does the air come from on your transmission/Diff oil cooler ducts?

[CamaroAJ]

Once again; your fit and finnish work is bar none the best I've seen!

Where does the air come from on your transmission/Diff oil cooler ducts?

Thanks! More to come on the air inlets from the skunk works later. Can't give all my secrets away right now. :secret:

[CamaroAJ]

Just a quick update today. Before body work got too far on the firewall I decided to remove the factory stamped X in the driver tulip and mount the wiper motor there. Since I don't currently own any dimple dies I had to settle for a wood hole and my handy router.

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

I dimpled the 3 spots where the wiper motor bolts would hit the firewall with a socket and two hammers.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

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

Then I decided to update the 43 year old wiper transmission with the left over parts from the donor car. With the piece I cut out to shorten one arm I needed to use to make the other one longer.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

I also used the larger socket balls for a low friction squeak free wiper transmission. A quick trip to the sand blaster and they'll be ready for paint.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

The bottom of the car is almost ready for paint. One more coat of slick sand and a quick sand and its ready for sealer, primer, seam sealer and paint.

[CamaroAJ]

Car is 90% seam sealed. I was waiting on doing the rear section until after two last things were finished up in the rear. This is one of the two things needed done. Sadly there is a few projects going on with the car that it has been strongly recommended to me that I not post online at this point. Now that they are both done the bare metal will be epoxied and seam sealed then its ready for paint.

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

[CamaroAJ]

Got lots of stuff done over the past few weeks with the little bit of time I've had to work on the car. First we got the watts link bracket and fuel cell cage masked off and painted.

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

Then after about a week we masked off the freshly painted parts to seal the bottom of the car.

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

My buddy Jon then got the base coat shot.

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

Then he got it cleared coated

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

And today I started finial assembly of the small parts that go on the bottom.

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

[craigs73]

wow looking good!!!

[linkstar69]

Almost to good to face the ground

[CamaroAJ]

Thanks guys!

[fastfail]

Holy cow man, you're doing an amazing job. Everything you've done is awesome. Looking forward to more.

[bonecrrusher]

Dam - nice color!

[CamaroAJ]

Its been a bit since my last update. Didn't get much work on the car done for sometime then I started picking it up again here and there. Got quite a bit done paint wise too.

Engine cleaned and prepped for paint.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

Then got it shot in epoxy.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

Mixed up some paint I had around the house and ended up with this color. Didn't care for it at first but the more I look at the the more I like it.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

Also got the transmission stripped and painted.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

And got them both assembled
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

Most importantly I got my sub frame back!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

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

Taking advantage of the exhaust notches in the trunk I built a washer jug to clean up the engine bay and move weight to the rear.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

Today I started removing the last of the cancer.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

I ended for the night with about half the lip repaired.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[bonecrrusher]

What color paint is that for the motor/trans?

[CamaroAJ]

I don't know? I mixed black and silver and ended up with a bronzish.

[Ron.in.SoCal]

Always look forward to your updates AJ.

[Motown 454]

AJ you did a nice job for not knowing what you would come up with, It came out awesome! Excellent job!

[CamaroAJ]

Thanks guys!

Finished up the cowl tonight and got it in epoxy so it shouldn't rust out ever again.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[CamaroAJ]

I've been working on quite a bit of stuff on the car just mostly stuff I'm not going to post pictures of. I did get the engine and transmission installed.

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

The stainless collectors showed up today for the Tri-Y headers and I picked up a few boxes of random bends from Stainless Works.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

Spent the rest of the afternoon building the passenger header.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

I ran out of gas for the TIG so I'll have to start the driver side header when I get some more gas.

[Mizzouri]

I can't wait to see the 4th gen interior in there. I've got a complete 99 Z28 that I am on the fence about using the interior in to my 68.

[CamaroAJ]

I did the 4th gen interior in my '67 as well.
http://s25.photobucket.com/user/CamaroAJ/media/sweetcamaro003.jpg.html
http://s25.photobucket.com/user/CamaroAJ/media/RedCamaro009.jpg.html

[CamaroAJ]

Finished up the driver header. I can say that chances are I'll never buy another set of headers I enjoyed building them that much.

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

[cwylie]

Any update? I noticed most of the pictures are gone.