63 Chevy II

[Draginutz]

Figured it's time to start a build thread since I am actually working on my 1963 Chevy II.

Starting point.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/11/nova4-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/11/nova2-1.jpg

Then I did the TCI mustang II swap
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/11/DSCN0574-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/11/DSCN0595-1.jpg

New wheels and tires. New Gen 500s 18x7 and 18x10 General UHP 295/35 18 and 225/40 18
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/11/newwheels2-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/10/tires3-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/10/tires2-1.jpg

And pics soon to come of the mini tub. I am using this "kit" from Fab Quest. http://www.fabquest.com/search-by-car-make-model/chevy-nova-chevy-ii/ez-tub-62-67-chevy-ii-oem-style-mini-tub-tubbing-inserts.html. Seems worth it if you don't have a flange tool or any metal hanging around.
After the mini tub I will be getting the new TCI torque arm kit.
I'm not going to win any major prizes/races with this car but after owning it for 13 years I want to drive it and have fun!!!!
Thanks for looking and the inspiration. Also thanks to the vendors that have helped get me this far.

[Draginutz]

So I started doing the mini tub and got the inner tubs cut out and started trimming. I should have it all welded in next weekend.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/11/novatub1-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/11/novatub2-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/11/novatub3-1.jpg

I have more pics for anyone thats interested

[gordonquixote]

That's gonna be soooooooooooooooooooooooooo gnarly!

[Impala Matt]

Nice project. I've been sitting on a '63 Nova for some time
now also. It is a completely gutted body only. I have a Scott's front end for it and thats about it...Maybe it's time to get started.

[Bryce]

Cool project.

[twosaturns]

always liked the '63. had a old family friend w/ one, black w/ stock red interior, set up as a drag racer..

[Draginutz]

Thanks guys. I am hoping to be driving it late next summer. We'll see. It will probably fall more into the RestoMod category with stock color paint and pretty stock style interior. I am undecided on doing a cage.

[srh3trinity]

It's gonna be cool and I love the choice in wheels. They will fit in well with the Restomod feel.

[68400BIRD]

I'll hit you up for more pics. I Looove the early year Chevy II's

[Draginutz]

PMd link

[Draginutz]

Small update. I got my TCI 3 link rear suspension about 85% installed. I need to finish up the tub work before I narrow my rear end and get all the brackets in place. I pulled out the TH350 and am going with a T5 out of a v8 camaro (for now). No pics of the 3 link but just some beauty shots of the car/wheels and tires. Those are both the front wheels/tires on the driverside I just wanted to see how it looked. Next I need to rework the passenger side header, get some axles, get the steering hooked up and then unfortunately I need to find a new place to work on/store the car because my buddy is closing his shop. Any way some pics.

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

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/01/gloryshot2-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/01/glory3-1.jpg

[Draginutz]

So I got some new Rewarder headers, mini starter, and poured in some fresh oil and new plugs. Used the old "old" distributor trick to build pressure. Restabbed the HEI unit and she fired right up. Talk about a big motivator. I still need to finish the mini tub, order axles, and then coat all my chassis stuff. Then on to body and paint. Anyway some new header pics.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/Nova81-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/nova31-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/Nova71-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/nova21-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/nova11-1.jpg

[craigs73]

NICE project you have there i really like the wheels..... you a member of stevesnovasite.com?

[Draginutz]

I am a member on Steves. I got some some good advice over there.

[Draginutz]

Wow! Almost a year since an update. Well the 63 hasn't been touched too much lately as I am working on my dads 46 ford. I am stock piling parts for the 63 though. Here's a list of what I have purchased. Pics to come.

T5 hydraulic throw out bearing from Southwest Speed
Ram Clutch
Mini Starter
Aluminum Master cylinder From POL
AAW wiring from MCB
Clutch Bracket kit from MCB
Dutchman axles
Eastwood Mig
Clutch M/C from Southwest Speed

Next up
Vaporworx/Ricks Tank from MCB
Pulley kit from Southwest speed
Radiator and fan from RnD Fab
Grille
HL Bezels
Spintech Mufflers
Steering wheel
Column

If anyone wants pics or info on anything I have purchased feel free to ask. I hope to be back on the nova in a month or two (we'll see). Thanks for looking

[Martin71RS]

I will be keeping an eye on this thread... working on a 62 Nova myself and also putting in a T5!