Young gun's c6 suspension tube chassis mopar cuda

[xtreme]

Hello my name is Gant MacLellan and I am 25 year old car enthusiast and first time builder! I have always had a passion for muscle cars and particularly MOPARS in general. Originally I was going to find a project and restore it to its original condition; however after a couple years of lurking around these forums, the expectation level for my first build has drastically changed.

I fell in love with the CUDA and was finally able to track one down that met my requirements and primarily…………. met my budget. Looking back now, I realized that I picked one of the most expensive cars to build! I knew that it was going to be rusted and I knew that I was going to cut it to pieces.

I have had the car for a little over two years now and it has been a long journey for me to get it to this point. Like many people on this forum, restrictions of time, budget, school, tools, resources, and knowledge have made progress painfully slow. However I am determined to one day complete my project, regardless of how long it takes.

I have done all of the work on the car myself and it’s something that I am particularly proud of. Thank goodness for the Internet, because usually if I did not know how to properly do something, I would just research it until I had a better understanding of how it was done. After graduating from the University of Georgia, I was able to go back to school at a local technical college to take a couple classes TIG welding. I am still not an expert, but definitely can practice enough techniques to get the job done.

Through this build I want to encourage people of all ages and financial backgrounds to build their dream car and never let any frustrations or doubts get in the way. I hope I can show that with a lot of hard work and trial and error, that anyone can achieve the results they want. No matter the level of experience!

I want to thank all of the talented builders, companies, and helpful people that post their work and knowledge on these forums to help people like me understand how to do things correctly and have something to aspire to. If anyone ever has any questions or advice on something that I have done or my experiences, please don’t hesitate to ask.

Spent alot of time on ebay waiting for good deals for c6 suspension parts, pressed old bushings out, balljoints out, sandblasted, smoothed castings, got AN AMAZING DEAL on powder-coating, replaced everything with pfadt suspension kit, arp chromoly studs, new hubs, etc.

My next goal for the car is to blast it again, seal it, then builld my jig, replace the rockers, set the car at ride height, and mount all the c6 suspension at their correct pickup points.

(http://i55.tinypic.com/zwycz6.jpg)

[xtreme]

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[Nessumsar]

Wow! What an undertaking. That is really awesome, from one young gun to another. Looks like you basically bought a VIN and frame.

[Bryce]

Cool stuff, I like it when the young guys are building great cars. Im 27 now. My falcon was my first car.

[formula]

Welcome aboard from another young soldier! I'm 24 and my bird was my first as well. Any way we can help out just say the word!

[ALLstrokedOUT]

Wow, thats gunna be awesome!! Ive been daydreaming for a bit of doing c5/6 suspension on my duster, not too many people mess with the front end of mopars, especially designing the frame from scratch. Thats where this website is definatly inspirational no matter the make or model of the project. From yet another young gun (21) to..another welcome! (p.s. that black (72?) duster in the garage is lookin pretty sweet too!)

[RS_Customs]

Very nice project! Will be keeping an eye on this. Graduated from Ga tech, are you still in Ga? I'm up in Woodstock.

Robert

[aray327]

I was amazed at the massive undertaking at your age, then i see that tube chassis big tire mopar next to you and I know you have likely been assisting on builds for a longggg time. You probably have a leg up on a lot of guys on this site. Either way it's a great project and should be awesome when complete!

[CruizinKev]

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

[Jon Clough]

keep the pics coming, looking great

[wellis77]

Welcome! I'm excited to see this come together.

[xtreme]

Hey guys just wanted to throw out some updates! Not too much going on, but sourced a complete c5 rear suspension with the upper rails attached, so I can have a good starting point of all the suspension points to build a jig off of! Contemplating duplicating all of the control arms with chromoly tubing, howe racing balljoints, spherical bearings, larger splined hub bearing for a 934cv stub, etc. and then selling off the rest.

Anyways hoping to take the steel next week to have water jet, into my jig pieces along with all the holes.

Got to keep on moving, any progress is PROGRESS!



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[xtreme]

Hey Robert, sorry did not catch this im in the cumming/ suwanee area

[astroracer]

I'll be keeping my eye on this thread. This is the stuff I love to see. A young guy getting things done in his own shop, very kool.
Mark

[Chadly B]

wow......subscribed.

[xtreme]

Thankyou I just wish I had the cad and computer design experience that you have!

[irregal83]

good start.. hope to see updates.. im subscribed

[Bjkadron]

Very nice! Welcome! I too would like some more info on the duster..

[xtreme]

Hey thanks BJ!

Some info on my fathers car includes hopefully a final weight of 2000-2200 lbs, full tube chassis duster, 750-850 dodge r3 stroked drysump motor, 15x16 33 tires, airshifter, all fiberglass parts other then the shell, carbonfiber wing, etc. etc. etc. Should pretty much be a monster and a great bracket car, as that is what he loves. This is his third drag car, first was a 68 charger and one duster before this. It will be my first time drag racing, so definitely excited but going to have to take it really slow with this one, as it will be alittle intimidating. Not so much as to the fact of all the power, but to the fact that you have watched you father put so much time, money, and effort into something that you would never want to RUIN lol!

[Bjkadron]

Sounds like a very serious build. I'm pretty sure nobody would object to a build thread on that one either. So what are more of your plans for your car?

[musclecarmatt]

just read this thread!....wicked man....i'm 25 and my first was my 71 camaro........keep up awesome work!

[linkstar69]

Subscribed

[David Sloan]

Cool project.
Man keep up the good work, If we can help out let us know!

[RobNoLimit]

lookin awsome. doin' a 70 challenger right now. keep up the good work

[BulldawgMusclecars]

Nice build! Good to see another UGA grad on here (BBA '93)!!!

[LeighP]

Nice work...you sure gave it to that 'Cuda, not much left, lol.

[senor_camaro]

I admire your fabrication

[FRENCHBLUE72]

Wow talk about some sheet metal replacement..

[ramlinman]

updates are always expected and welcome

[xtreme]

Hey guys thanks for the interest believe me, theres not a day that this car does not run through my mind! Im going to post some more pics shortly. Trying to track down acouple I beams for the base of my jig and also acquired engine parts and Ill let you know what that is soon! Thanks for the support.

[xtreme]

Hey guys hope all has been well! Well my build just got really interesting and even more complicated lol! How about plans for a twin turbo R5/p7 Dodge NASCAR engine?????????? I think so! I wanted to do something that was exotic and a combination that was rare and I think Ive met that criteria so far. I hope to build a stout combination that is reliable for the street and will make heads turn. Hard part now is going to be mating the bellhousing/clutch/ to a strong enough transaxle/diff and researching the best combination of parts.

As you can see I was playing mock up in the living room haha! But you get the idea. I have a good head start on the major parts for the engine to be mocked up on the jig and in my chassis. The block is a brand new unmachined piece with billet mains, 6 bolt heads, etc. The amount of R and D in these engines and heads is a work of art. Its really amazing and I would like to thank Mr. Arrington in Concord, NC for the great hospitality and answering my questions. Tell me what you guys think and as always any advice is welcomed!


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[oddarve440]

ooooh nice

[FRENCHBLUE72]

Holy $#@!!!!!!

[Finn]

Damn. You beasted that cuda man. Nice work, keep the pics coming!

[linkstar69]

Got my attention

[xtreme]

Haha thanks for the comments guys! This thing may take me years but, Im going to do it right the first time and Im slowly moving along.

[astroracer]

Slowly moving is good... I was years planning my Astro van build and, now that it is progressing, I find it falling together. Lots of fab work of course but that's what you have to do when you are building one off stuff.. The engine looks great! With all of that coin sitting on your living room floor you HAVE to get it done now. That's the methodology I used when I bought the engine for Bad Ast.
:)
Keep on working at it. Excellant project.
Mark

[ALLstrokedOUT]

OH DAMN..you couldnt have picked another engine to make me more jealous about (really the whole build in general). I was going to ask what trans you could run with that, but i guess your asking yourself the same question at this point-good luck! cant wait for the next update.

[Bjkadron]

What do I think? I think you should just put in a regular small block and call it good. I happen to have one if you want to swap ;)

Seriously though, I think it looks amazing! You might look into a Porsche 928 transmission. People run over 900 hp through them with no problems. Or so I've heard. I have no personal experience with them though. Are you wanting to do a torque tube setup like the vette?

[xtreme]

Astroracer,
I admire the dedication and fabrication of your build and glad to see the hard work you have put in is paying off. As I collect a few more major items, I can get into some actual fabrication like you have, which I am really looking forward to. Ive got some pretty cool ideas.

ALLstrokedOUT
Thanks man! The trans combo is a tough call, but pretty sure Ill end up with a strong z06/zr1 rear trans diff combo, manual for sure, and mainly for weight ratioaspect, availability and price. I think Ill mate the engine to a drive shaft to the corvette trans axle rather then the torque tube.
Theres not too many combos out there that will allow you to do this. Mendeolas are awesome but cost you a arm and a leg. Porsche transaxle are hard to find and Im sure replacement parts are expensive. If things work out Im about to make moves on a tr6060 then upgrade it later.

Bjkadron
Thanks for the advice I appreciate it. At then end of the day I want a bulletproof system that I dont have to worry about smashing the throttle everynow and then and something breaking. My father wanted me to just do a naturally aspirated version of the r5, but I had to switch it up. Stay tuned.

[ALLstrokedOUT]

Cool, the vette transaxle is a great choice i think. You can get the vette trans's for less than the viper/cobra/camaro ones as im sure youve seen. And it will definatly be a better weight distribution than a conventional trans setup.

I dont know a whole lot about it but if you look into the TR6060 a bit i think it makes its strength at a cost to its durability. From what ive read at LS1tech the TR has more surface area for the gear teeth to mesh (wider), making it stronger. However, by doing this they had to decrease the synchro teeth depth on the gears. To distribute the load better they made more, smaller teeth. Ive heard people missing a shift and wiping these teeth out. Im sure my opinions are based on paranoia but its something to look into...as soon as my 5/6 gear goes out ill be going with a viper mainshaft, steel shift fork, etc...probably good for well over 800hp. Theres a guy that works at a speed shop by us with an 800hp camaro consistantly running 9's in the 1/4. All hes done from stock is steel 3/4 shift fork, bronze(?) shift fork pads, basically the "stage II kit". The value and aftermarket support for the T56 based trans definatly cannot be beat.

edit: Here you go, look at post #14 for pics and a better explanation:
http://www.ls1tech.com/forums/manual-transmission/1206190-t-56-magnum-vs-tr6060.html?ref=esp-link

[xtreme]

Tim thanks for the advice, ive read some good postings like that also and its tough because theres so many factors that go into each of these peoples different opinions and issues. The t56 would definitely get me out at a better price then a tr6060 right now

[LSxChevelle]

I know someone selling their TR6060 w/ 11k miles from a 2010 Camaro. $2k with slave, master, pedal...

Jason

[SickSpeedMonte]

That looks like one of those living rooms that nobody is allowed to go into. Those pictures with a disassembled car in it are hilarious!

Quite a collection of parts you have there! This is going to be insane.

[xtreme]

LSx Chevelle
Thanks for the heads up on the tr6060 but I would be looking for a rear mounted, diff transaxle set up.

Sickspeedmonte
Glad you got a good laugh haha!

[xtreme]

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Two 16' I beams serving as base for my jig, got to get them cleaned up and drilled with many holes for adjustability. Almost 6" flange 8"web and 1/4 thick.

[xtreme]

Hey guys thought Id post up so progress. I sourced a 2008 Tremec TR6060 rear transaxle from a vette. Media blasted the case and cleaned it up. I am planning on trying to rebuild it myself one of these days and upgrade it to stronger internals.

Lastly here are acouple of pics of my father's R3 stroker motor for his Tube chassis Duster. He is getting very close to having everything completed and off to paint. Enjoy!

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[exwestracer]

I see by the mock up photos that you are not married! The crankshaft laying on the white carpet is priceless!:1st:

[ALLstrokedOUT]

That engines beautiful, and it's always good to see the pile of parts getting bigger! Rebuilding the trans should be really easy with the book, and taking your time. My t56 could've taken me as little as a long weekend to rebuild.

[xtreme]

Exwestracer you are correct not married at 26! The carpet actually looks alot better in the pics, its actually pretty dirty and the parts are super clean. Were changing it soon!

Allstrokedout

We plan to dyno my fathers engine soon so Ill learn how to post up a video. The pile of parts is definitely getting bigger Im on the lookout for a z06 differential c6.

I had talked to tremec last week and they are hoping to post the tr6060 service manual by the end of the year. The transmission I bought is not in working condition, but I plan to strip the internals anyways and do alot of trick stuff, it will be my first one but I have alittle help! Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks guys! Stay tuned

[joeko23]

All I can say is WOW, great job!

[xtreme]

Im just keeping the updates Rolling!

1 Gallon of Eastwood Epoxy Primer Black
1 Gallon of Eastwood Catalyst
5 Gallons of Evaporust for my I beams and plates!
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Lastly I got a hold of some really trick pieces!
Dodge R5 CNC billet aluminum piston oil sprayers that have 3 jet sprayers able to adjust the amount of oil! These are really neat, they have a CNC hole through the center of the piece and the bolts have hole passages for the oil to flow.
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[Greasy63]

OMG!
I'm Sub'd ol'right:)

GL with your Build

[norway_dartsport]

nice ride !!! just got to ask .. what´s the price on the r5p7 engine? , want to build me a asfalt-track duster somtime with r5p7 and RM suspension ...

[xtreme]

Hey thanks guys!
My father had a RM suspension on his last duster, said he enjoyed it. The r5 p7 stuff all depends, there are lots of great deals out there, just have to be resourceful, you can buy complete timed out engines for 4000 to 6000

[Project69]

Following.

[Bjkadron]

Those oil squirters are awesome...

[dusterbd13]

hmm....
i think ill have to do one with EFI when i finally kill the 360 im running now. that motor is just that badass.

i like the conce[t of the rest of the build. got a link to dads duster:?

[xtreme]

Thanks guys! EFI is in the works for my build also! I plan to do my own sheetmetal intake .

I think I will start a build thread of my father's duster so you guys can see all the build pics. Im glad that I have made it a point to document all of my build and his, so that we can always have the pics for the future. So make sure when your working on your car to have your camera handy to track your progress

[xtreme]

Well after a very long but productive day, Ive made some good progress and my chassis jig is one step closer to being done. The 1/2 steel had been sitting in the truck for almost 3 months and after driving to pick it up it has finally moved. As you can imagine it is ridiculously heavy, so luckily a friend of the family was able to help out with his crane truck! Unloading was a breeze, I then measured my sections, clamped a channel guide and used a steelmax saw. Even though its only recommended to 5/16 it did a great job and left a very accurate and clean cut. Im pretty worn out after maneuvering the plate all over the place. Ive still got alot more cutting to do and then hopefully going to rent a mag drill and spend a weekend drilling holes. I still have to sandblast or evaporust treat all the metal, epoxy primer everything, put on casters, buy bolts, make chassis fixtures etc. etc. Hope you like today's pics! Thanks for the support guys! My ride is going to be badass!

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[SuperB70]

I was just wondering why are you willing to spend so much money and time for drilling holes for your frame table?
Are you gonna build number of cars on it or it is just for this project.

What I mean is why dont you just put it together and drill those holes what you need as you go along with your build...

Dont get me wrong, it's going to be super nice but are you gonna need that. I did think this drilling thing also when I buildet my jig but went other way. Another thing was T-slots like in milling machine table. But would take too much money and time.

I ended up useing thick wall tubing so I can drill and tap on the table.

JMHO

[xtreme]

superB70
Your exactly right! I think for me I want to make sure that I have the basis or the foundation for my car to be clean, organized, and the best I can get it so that I can build my car the right way from there. My father tells me that Im wasting my money on cleaning and painting all the steel I have etc, etc. But I feel that If I have a better jig that I can clearly focus on my car and not wish that I would have done something one way or another.

Right now all I have is time, so more work to make it the way I want is not really a problem right now. I do plan to keep this jig and let it serve as the basis for all types of future builds. It will also be completely adjustable and will be able to breakdown for storage.

I guess at the end of the day do we really need any of this stuff? Not really but its what we want and we enjoy it. Stay tuned.

[astroracer]

Hey Gant,
I built the chassis for Bad Ast on two sheets of particle board, glued and screwed together. Drilling holes as required to jig it up. The top sheet had white melamine on one side so it was very easy to to see the layout lines. It is off the jig tables right now leaning against the wall. You are creating a lot of work for yourself. I have found it is better to build all of the fixtures first then drill the attachment holes, using the fixtues as your template. In fact, I drilled very few holes, using c-clamps to hold the angle blocks that I used for most of the set-up work.
I just want you to know there are easier and quicker ways to do the job.
Mark

[RS_Customs]

Nice table! From the looks of the stuff in your garage I'm sure you will be using this for much more than just this build.

I have a similar table, it was recycled from a fab shop. I wish all the holes on mine were drilled in a nice layout like your going to do instead of randomly placed lol.

Robert

[xtreme]

Thanks for the advice guys! I know its alot of work but when its done it will be the what I want, and the way I want it. I would hate to get too far into the build and wish I would have built something a certain way. I definitely plan on using the jig many times in the future for more builds. The holes drilled in exact spacing is critical to making it right, thanks encouragement Robert!

[xtreme]

Its fun coming home and seeing another goody that has arrived at your door. Today a C6 z06 rear differential showed up that I purchased off ebay 2 days ago. Considering this is a $3000-4000 new differential. Everything looks good to go, however there is a hole in the case due to whatever accident it was involved in an caused the differential cooler to puncture the case. I will form and roll a new piece of aluminum, weld, and finish like new. Needless to say I have developed numerous "mini projects" within my entire project. I plan to completely rebuild it with cryo, micro polished parts, shafts, etc. and finally powder coat it the same black finish as my control arms along with the tr6060.

When I started this I knew I had expensive taste, that only the best would do and I knew that the only way I would have my dream car and have it built to the level of quality that i want was to take parts that I would never be able to afford brand new, that had some sort of flaw and put some work into them to make them nice again. That's part of the fun of it for me, learning to do things myself. The last thing I want to do is be on someone Else's schedule. Stay tuned!!!!!!!

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[xtreme]

Well first off I wish I could have had the time or chance to go to SEMA but one day I will and hopefully it will be to display my car. Anyways just wanted to post some progress. On my days off from school and work I try and make at least one cut in the plate which is alot of work in itself, I have about 3 more 6' cuts, then evaporust treatment, grind smooth as possible, scribe, center punch, and drill all my holes. Then it will be getting everything as level as possible and supporting the cross plate underneath. Lot of work to go. Check out my new 6 stage Dailey Pump and Moroso R5 pan, absolutely amazing! I cant wait to get the jig together, prime everything and mount all my components. Hope everyones project is going well. Updates soon!

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[astroracer]

Hey Gant, if you are dead set on drilling all of those holes get yourself a piece of pegboard and use that as a template to centerpunch your hole pattern. Pegboard has a 1" hole spacing and yous looks to be about 2" so that would make layout go quicker and possibly a bit more accurate across the board.
Mark

[linkstar69]

Man that's a lot of work on that table, should be an asset to you for a long time.

The dry sump gear looks the business too. :)

[xtreme]

Hey Mark thanks for the idea thats great! Know of any 3" pegboard or templates? The only thing I want to make sure I get perfect is scribing the metal, center punching and drilling the holes. The plates are as close to a foot wide each. So the first hole will start at 1.5" then 4.5" then 7.5" then 10.5" and then match up with the next plate. The spacing will be on 3" centers.

Linkstar69
I plan on using the jig alot in the future. You wouldnt believe how nice the pan and pump are till you see them in person! The pan is rather heavy though, pretty thick gauge stainless steel. But I guess when you running 200mph and 500miles it nees to be "stout"

[astroracer]

The pegboard is 1" on center so just transfer punch every third hole. I use this stuff for laying out rivet patterns. Cut a strip a coiuple of inches wide, line it up, lightly clamp and punch away.
Have fun.
Mark

[xtreme]

Hey Mark, that sounds like a great idea and thats exactly what I will do. I didnt think it could be that easy lol! I found some near me on craigslist, but where do you usually find yours? Id like to find a strip that is as long as 6'6" so I wont have to cut one up to that size? I feel like the more transferring I do the more room for error.

[astroracer]

Just get a 4' x 8' ft sheet and cut it to the size you need. it's not that expensive. Drill a couple of datum holes to align the sheet to your jig and bolt it down.
What you don't use for your jig hang on the wall for tool storage.

[xtreme]

Will do I appreciate it.

[Oldskool442]

Awesome project, I really want to build myself one of those as well someday.

Not sure if you're using one already, but for drilling those holes you may want to be using a drill with a magnetic base. You can probably rent one locally.

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[ramlinman]

nice to see your spirit and determination. that will really show in your build

[xtreme]

Oldskool442,
Thanks for the advice, I am still considering the mag drill, still trying to find someone I know with one lol. There is one to rent but alittle pricey and you still have to add in the cost of the special bits etc. etc. Unsure how many bits it would take me to do all the holes I need, and particularly dont like being on a time line to have it done. Ive been trying to find an adequate hand drill stand for drilling accurate holes. Seen acouple but havent seen good reviews. The plates are just too have to move to our drill press, could be done but alot of work.

Ramlinman
Thanks for the compliment I really appreciate it.

[Greasy63]

Keep up the Great Work!

This is gonna be one Real sweet CUDA!

[astroracer]

Have you considered a small table top drill press? They are fairly cheap. Make an adapter plate to replace the base. Get a few holes started in the jig table and then stage the drill using those holes. It would take a little time to set up but once you get going it should go pretty smooth....
Mark

[xtreme]

Hey guys been a little while since I’ve posted anything up, I just finished another semester of school and finals. Anyways got some new toys and going to show you some of the work I have been doing. First off tried my first attempt at polishing the casting off of one of the heads. Spent about two days doing it and it is a whole lot of work and time. One things for sure you have to have the right tools for the job. They are much better in person but I’ve come to the conclusion that I am going to media blast them and probably powder coat them black.

I also picked up a 2 stage Johnson rear end pump that I took apart and I am rebuilding it now. I am going to mate it to the rear pinion cover of the zo6 differential and run it to two oil coolers etc. Anyways I am sourcing a new set of gears and two housings now because a lot of debris ruined the ones I have. Should be pretty cool when it’s done. I also picked up a rather large Patterson dry sump tank I plan on doing some modifications too including filters, heat bungs, etc. Took several hrs. to completely clean the entire tank and I have been working on refinishing the metal and removing some scratches from it. I have not tig welded in a while so going to pick that back up on my school break.

You’ll also notice all the red plastic plugs I bought, ha-ha I went a little crazy with them and now I have every plug and size you can imagine, but it will be helpful to keep debris out of the engine in the future. In the last pics you’ll also notice I removed all of the intake gasket material and also been working on repolishign the intake and exhaust ports, still a long ways away from finished and have to still do the other head. Hope you enjoy!



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[xtreme]

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[454bug]

Hey Gant,

GREAT project!! :twothumbs

That is one sweet looking engine!

I'm impressed with the amount of work you're taking on. Keep up the great work! :cheers:

[xtreme]

Hey Ray thank you very much for the comment, sometimes I think Im getting in over my head hah! I enjoy your build and thanks for posting up all the informative pics of your project.

[Greasy63]

Wow! That's some NICE lookin' stuff!!
The heads came out Great!

Keep up the good work:)!

& keep uploading those pics! We loooove pics!

[xtreme]

Mini project #888000077

Eventually going to have a billet rear pinion cover machined that accepts the johnson rear end pump, and make a new pinion drive plate that mechanically is driven as the car moves, so I can run some oil coolers for transmission and differential. The pinion cover I got had a crack in it anyways, so it will all work out. I wish I had the all the tools and machinery to rely on myself and keep things moving!

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[xtreme]

3' feet of dash 8an Billet Fuel rail! Collecting parts for my intake, still deciding what I want to do, might chop up a cast ported intake and make it into something cool or save my money and do some billet runners etc.
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[RS_Customs]

Wow that's cool, never seen a 3' raw length like that.

Robert

[xtreme]

http://www.rossmachineracing.com/

Very easy to deal with over ebay, very fast shipping! I didnt realize how heavy it would be, of course after machining and hopefully some weight reducing design cuts it will be lighter

[RS_Customs]

Dang! That's a lot cheaper than I thought it would be. Thanks for the link. I will have to keep that in mind.

Robert

[xtreme]

yah not too bad! However the catch is how much it costs you to machine it and tap everything, but if you know the right people or can do it yourself, there is some money to be saved.

[xtreme]

Man this is one "trick piece from RCR racing" The previous dry sump tank I bought, one of the sections had some dents, Im not experienced enough to keep workign them out yet so I bought this other section that has a billet double bypass oil filter system similiar to the oberg style completely built in. Check out the pics it is unbelievable.
Im going to cut the bottoms of each tank off and have a water jet flange cut out so I can weld them directly to the tanks and eliminate the clamp style system the patterson systems have and go to something more similiar to that of the peterson styles.
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[xtreme]

Did some work on my dry sump tank today. The Patterson style tank uses a clamp style system. I felt that this could be more like the Peterson style where two aluminum rings bolt to each other with a o ring groove machined in between them as a seal.

The tricky part was not deforming the tank in anyway, cutting the flange off and making the cuts and halves straight. I think I did a pretty good job. I used the current clamp and seal as a guide and basically grind-ed down to the line. Worked pretty well and the two halves are level. I might continue to reduce the bottom portion of the tank, but going to wait until determine how much oil my whole setup will need. The tank is huge.

I ordered two 1" NPT x 4.5" long 120volt 500 watt oil tank heater probes for the bottom section of the tank and two 1" NPT aluminum weld bungs.

I plan on purchasing the metal in the next couple days for a lot of my car machining projects. Ill then have to have the tank flanges cut, drilled for bolts, and welded. Stay tuned.


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[keithq69]

Great project. Can't wait to see more pics.
Are you going to use the Corvette frame sections that you have or are you just using them to build a jig?
I would be interested in buying the Corvette frame sections if you don't use them.
I'm doing a C6 rear suspension in my 69 Camaro and when I bought my rear suspension I didn't get the frame sections with it.

Keith.

[xtreme]

Hope all has been well! I have been pretty busy back at school, but just still collecting parts and moving forward. As you can see Ive hunted down alot of parts and accessories to get everything moving when the time comes.
Hope you enjoy!

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[bonecrrusher]

Your motor has more carbon fiber in it then my car... boy that needs to change!

[ALLstrokedOUT]

Damn that things sexy!! Good to see the update

[xtreme]

Hahah! The carbon fiber timing cover is a pretty trick piece!

[xtreme]

Another new parts update! 60mm roller cam core, another set of engine block off plates so that when I start smoothing the sand casting and blasting I can keep the engine clean and don't have to damage the Evernham plates I already have!

Clevite coated rod bearings, Clevite coated main bearings, another set of billet oil sprayers so now Ill have two sets. New Damper ring and o ring rebuild,
Front cam seal, Front crank seal, rear crank split seal cometic, Valve train Organizing tray, New 60mm roller cam bearings. Brand mew R5 MSD Pro Billet Distributor Dual Pickup.

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[linkstar69]

Once again another fine set of parts. How's the frame table coming along?

[xtreme]

Thanks Linkstar69,
I just keep focusing on putting together the best individual parts that I can! I have not had much time to mess with the jig, unfortunately or should I say made time to mess with the jig. Been contemplating acouple ideas and still deciding on my best route forward. Ive put a huge dent in the engine build other then turbos and all that mess, but now my attention is focused on the jig, so my next updates will be from that and working towards my goal of getting everything mounted inside the shell! Stay tuned and thanks for checking it out!

[linkstar69]

Parts pile sure looks good man, look forward to seeing more.

Love checkin in on your progress, us mopar guys have got to stick together ;)

[senor_camaro]

this thread is awesome, lots of fab!

[ryeguy2006a]

What kind of power will you be expecting out of the engine?

[xtreme]

Linkstar 69
I hear ya on that one, we definitely have to stick together!

Senor camaro,
Thanks Buddy

Ryeguy2006a
Power wise Im hoping for the engine to be capable of over 1000hp when all is said and done, but the amount of boost Ill run on the street will be pretty low and hoping 700 to 800hp. Still alot to figure out.

[Greasy63]

Mmmmmmmm CF is my favorite!!!!:drool::drool::drool:

[shortrack]

Ryeguy2006a
Power wise Im hoping for the engine to be capable of over 1000hp when all is said and done, but the amount of boost Ill run on the street will be pretty low and hoping 700 to 800hp. Still alot to figure out.

Wild car!......Your Dodge Cup engine already makes 800 hp, why bother with the turbos????

Are you going to track day the car or just drive on the street?

[elitecustombody]

You can literally build this project in your sleep,lol. Car parts on dining room table,we've all seen that,but building a motor in the bedroom is on a whole new level:twothumbs:

[xtreme]

Shortrack, thanks for the comment! Yah the Dodge r5/p7 is an amazing motor as it is, completely race engineered and designed in every aspect. I just wanted to do something different and I have some really cool ideas for them and I cant wait to show you guys in the future.

My whole intentions are to really build a amazing street/ show car that I can enjoy and cruise and possibily get into some track events and clubs in the future. Ill really need to do my research ahead of time to try and meet some of the rules and regulations if I do so in the build, so that Ill be able too.

Stefan,
Haha yah I definitely want to be able to show people alot of stuff they havent seen before, including building engines in teh bedroom. The engine stand still scares me though, its amazing how 4 bolts can hold that much weigth. It just scares me, but shouldnt be a problem.

[linkstar69]

I'm glad I'm not the only one who feels nervous with their block held by 4 bolts. LoL

[elitecustombody]

Stefan,
Haha yah I definitely want to be able to show people alot of stuff they havent seen before, including building engines in teh bedroom. The engine stand still scares me though, its amazing how 4 bolts can hold that much weigth. It just scares me, but shouldnt be a problem.

Yeah, I think you're taking it a big too far, I can't believe your girl haven't kicked you out yet. Or you must be single.LOL.

For the motor hanging on few bolts, many builders make a removable support to take most of the load at the front of the motor.

Keep updates coming!

[xtreme]

yah thats not a bad idea, I think I will try and fab a forward mount for the stand also. Depends when I get it on the jig though. Thanks guys, got some new stuff coming soon!

[LSfan70s]

yah thats not a bad idea, I think I will try and fab a forward mount for the stand also. Depends when I get it on the jig though. Thanks guys, got some new stuff coming soon!

Awesome project! Keep it up! Subscribing.:cheers:

[xtreme]

Thanks LSfan70s

[xtreme]

Hey guys wanted to update you on my father's Tube chassis Duster drag car! His R3 440 stroker is finally built and made 780hp on the dyno on gas. Hes hoping to creep into the 800s with alcohol. Should be a wild ride and my first attempt at a drag car!


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[linkstar69]

That's one serious mill!

[go-fish]

You can't see it in this pic but when I had my 408 on the stand I attached two pieces of angle iron onto the front of my stand where the front casters attached on the legs. I ran them up to the motor mount bolt hole. Two pieces of angle iron, four bolts, four holes drilled and wall-ah, a little bit of insurance. You can see my LA blocks engine mount holes near the lower front freeze plugs and how easy it is to run supports up to there. Not sure how your race block motor mounts are configured though.

I haven't commented on your build yet but it isn't for lack of enthusiasm. This Cuda is awesome! Good luck going forward.

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[xtreme]

Go-fish
I plan to do something similar to gain some more support up front and evenly distribute the load. The R5 doesn't have any side bosses engine mounts or at least the style block that I have!There are a few different castings of blocks and I was told that the ones with side bosses tend to be not as strong. Ill attach something to the front motor plate though.

Thanks for the comment and it seems like you have one nice Cuda going on yourself! Thanks man!

[go-fish]

Mine's going really slow at the moment. I have a set of challenges ahead of me that would kill anyone's project but then again, I have some challenges BEHIND me that would have killed another project. We're just going to plod along until we're done.

Ever read about a Mopar Perf. employee named Jim Szilagyi who has written 'How to Build Big Inch Mopar Small Blocks'? The book won't help you much but some of his other material might be a good read. The book mentioned is mostly for LA and Magnum strokers but he briefly touches on R5's.

[linkstar69]

I've got the book too, it's a good read for anyone building a stroker small block.

[xtreme]

Thanks for the advice guys actually my father and I have that book and have had it for awhile now! Its a good read for sure and has taught me alot about the engines! The r5 stuff is alot more difficult to dig up info on as they are a pretty rare motor, luckily Ive built a pretty good relationship with the staff at Arrington Performance aka Raceengines plus, aka old Evernham shop! Mr. Arrington and Bob there are top notch and know everything for the dodge motors.

[go-fish]

Arrington has a bad azz Cuda too!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5shhZpaCpb4

[xtreme]

Your right, I can remember looking at this video when it came out and thinking how cool it was. I met the kid at arrington who owns this, he said he barely drives it!

[xtreme]

Hey guys I already sold one pan, I have two left in the for sale section! Wanted to post up better pics of the quality of these for you to admire! Updates soon!


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[xtreme]

Better Pics!

[astroracer]

Any updates? Curious people need to know!!!

[LS1MonteSS]

Awesome thread! I can wait to see the suspension jig you make.

[xtreme]

Well guys, unfortunately my build that Ive been working on for the last several years is going to have to be put on hold for awhile. A little thing called life happens sometimes and things change. I have to put one dream on hold, so I can begin another. I will be keeping the car shell and a few other things, but all of my R5P7 engine components, corvette suspension, drivetrain components are up for sale in the for sale section. Ive posted the link below.

I promise I will be back one day and build this car the way it needs to be built. I want to thank all of you who have supported me throughout the build. I will be back.
Gant MacLellan


https://www.pro-touring.com/threads/105269-C6-Zo6-C5-Corvette-Drivetrain-and-Suspension-Components?p=1052678#post1052678

[xtreme]

Engine has been sold thanks guys!