Popping my PT Cherry

[absintheisfun]

A couple of years ago I started a build project, but got so busy at work, the car sat for 2 years with no work being done on it...this all changed about a year ago.

Well, I had this grand plan to unveil my project when it was completed this summer. . .but as with the best laid plans…something came up and put everything on hold.

I’ve been saving and saving and bought a whole butt-load of parts and I had nothing but time on my hands this summer to get it completed. The plan was to post it up over a short period from start to finish. I always enjoy watching the “pro” builds because the changes happen so fast and its just fun to watch them come together so quickly. Recently though I have been following Iamtheonlyreal1’s build of his Volvo and changed my mind. It is even more fascinating to see them unfold slowly and actually see the forum used for its original purpose – exchanging ideas.

Well, to make a long story short, I quit my day job because it was pure misery 60-70 hours a week and went back to school to get professional (accredited) mechanic training. I had school 3 days a week, and 4 for the project. All was going well, and then one of my instructors felt that I was a pretty good student and introduced me to a GMC service manager and very quickly I found myself as a technician in the dealership. Don’t get me wrong…I’m loving it, finally doing what I enjoy for a living, but now it is school 3 days a week, work 3 days a week, and my wife gets a bit irked if I am in the garage past noon on Sunday J

I went from having more time on my hands than I knew what to do with to being so busy I had to schedule time just to think!

So, without further delay here is my project. The pictures below are about a year of piddle-farting around with the tear down and floor install, and then about 3 months of very efficient work. I was hoping that in another 3 I would be done. Now that I am so busy it is a little harder to keep motivated so I am hoping that by putting up routine posts on the build, it will help keep me into it as much as I am now. It looks like this is going to turn into little updates each week :guilty:
Also, keep in mind that this is my first project, and you are getting to see it in all its mistaken glory.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/Beast1-1.jpg

I've had the car since I was 17 (at this point it is literally half my life) and when I was driving it in highschool my friends would all say the same thing after riding shotgun - "This thing is a Beast!" Well, the name just stuck.

[absintheisfun]

I've got the past three months that I'll post a little on each night until I get caught up...then it'll be turned into slow updates :(

At the start:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/01StartingPoint-1.jpg

Front and rear suspension removed:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_0715-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/03PartsStorage-1.jpg


I put it up on a homemade rotisserie-built from two engine stands and some scrap steel:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/052Rotisserie-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/053Rotisserie-1.jpg


Built a jig so I could start cutting out the floors and welding in L and R panels without tweaking the body:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_0291-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_0288-1.jpg


To make sure the subframe rear mount bolt holes lined up correctly, I put in a vertical piece of angle iron through the old panel before cutting it out and marked it for height:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/subholealignment-1.jpg

Thats all for tonight-I'll get another back-dated update up tomorrow.

[absintheisfun]

New floors:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_0624-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_0622-1.jpg

Start of the prodigy bar:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_0713-2.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_0712-1.jpg

This is the other problem with sitting on pictures for too long…I had a several pictures of the trunk floor and tub install, but seem to have misplaced them. So, I guess I’ll show the only one I can find:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_0621-1.jpg

As a complete NOOB at body work, I was a bit nervous about tackling the quarters myself, so I shopped it out to a local resto shop.
This is the first time my Camaro has been out of the garage in about 3 years!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_08430-1.jpg

They are a good, reputable place recommended by a friend and true to their word, I had the Camaro back in two weeks!
I checked in with them after a couple of days, and they had some interesting things to show me:
Apparently, the last “restoration” that my Camaro went through included silicone sealing skins over the rusty originals!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_08431-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_08435-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_08434-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_08432-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_08433-1.jpg
All in all, they cut out about an inch of the outer wheel houses and welded in new, new quarters, new tail panel and RH outer trunk. They blasted the roof, rockers and doors as well. It was pricey, but it was done correctly (so my inexperienced eyes say), and quickly.

[icemanrd19]

wait who is working on your car and how much per hr? Im in allen and i would help you if you need anything. Maybe swap some parts and what not

[absintheisfun]

On to the butt:
I welded the seam above the trunk
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_0972-1.jpg

Then covered it in duraglass (same stuff I used for the quarter/roof seam)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_0973-1.jpg

Then to finish it off smooth, polyester filler. I put the trunk seal on so I could see where a closed trunk would be at rest. I left it closed for a few weeks so it would "settle" before I started bending it/beating it to form it correctly, and then got out the rods to finish off the gaps.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1009-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1005-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1006-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1007-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1009-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1010-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1019-1.jpg

I wanted to keep my spoiler, but I wanted it to be more along the lines of flush, than what it came with from the factory so I cut it down WHAT A MESS! I tried using my jig saw and that wasn’t very effective, and my 4 ½ cut off wheel sent so much dust into the air it was actually hard to see (after only cutting off about 6 inches). I settled on my dremel with a steel quick-lock cut off wheel.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1026-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1028-1.jpg

I need to work on the gap between the tail panel and the decklid, but was getting distracted every time I looked at my shelves and saw my spoiler staring at me.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1031-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1030-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1029-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1033-1.jpg
I need to work out a way to cover up the 4 front mount screws. With the spoiler now flush, it doesn’t have but 1/16” of material to go through…I like what Anvil did with theirs, but haven’t settled on anything yet.

It may not look like much, but this is the dust that I was able to sweep up after cutting down the spoiler. There is still about 1/4" up on my benches and shelves and well...pretty much everywhere.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1018-1.jpg

[absintheisfun]

wait who is working on your car and how much per hr? Im in allen and i would help you if you need anything. Maybe swap some parts and what not

So far, I've done everything but the quarters and tail panel. I was just a bit nervous tackling the quarters on my own. I think that it is ultimately going to be the only thing I farm out. I've been stripping and repainting my original decklid getting more and more comfortable with the process of painting and putting on clear so I think that is my last unknown hurdle.

As far as the work done it was done at Dusold Design in Lewisville.

[67 ls1 vert]

I really like your rendering.

[absintheisfun]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_0977-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_0978-1.jpg
Using the old deck lid to try out some colors…believe it or not, this is two different reds, cut down the center: Chrysler Flame Red on the left, Chevrolet Chili Pepper Red. Still not sure if I am going with either one. I am now leaning towards a darker, blood red like the new Mercedes red or 90’s era GM Victory Red. The biggest problem is that the darker the red, the more purple it becomes.

Moving to the dash and firewall-

Found some more rust!

(don't quite know why there are dates on these pics..or why the date is so wrong)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_0759-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_0757-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_0760-1.jpg

This has been the story of this build…rusty holes patched with none other than. . .crap tons of fiberglass. In the floors, the trunk, toeboards, and now, the dash and firewall. Hell, even the tulips had fiberglass on them. This guy must have thought it was the end all be all of rust repair!
“nuthin’ a little silicone and fiberglass can’t fix!”

I wanted a smooth firewall, but I didn’t want it to match the body color. I subscribe to the Foose philosophy in that when you open the hood, it should be like a jewelry box. Black everywhere with the bling in the middle. Nothing should distract you from its beauty.
I stripped the wall and cut out the A/C evaporator lip and started filling in the unused holes. It made sense then, but I found out later I shouldn’t have spent so much time on it :) I had to go back and cut out a hole for the clutch and a hole for the fuse panel...oh well.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_0767-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_0770-1.jpg

Making a template:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_0769-1.jpg


I found a steel supplier that had a 4x8 piece of sheet 14 gauge steel. Went to go pick it up with template in tow and asked if they could cut out a piece big enough to support the template, and got the best news I had heard, “hell for 10 bucks we’ll get the plasma on it and cut it out for you.”
Best 10 bucks I ever spent!

Coated the back of it and my firewall with Fuzor panel adhesive
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_0785-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_0786-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_0787-1.jpg

Fixed the dash panel as well:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_0789-1.jpg

Primered and welds ground: I am running the vintage air heater and A/C lines through the firewall out of sight over the passenger front tire. The windshield wiper motor is going out of sight over the driver front tire. I have tons of pictures of the modified linkage, but again…can’t find them. I’ll dig for them and post them when I find them.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_0836-1.jpg

I knew it was going to get scratched and marred in the build process when I did it, but damn if I couldn’t wait to see what it was going to look like. I got some hot-rod black single stage flat black and sprayed the firewall. I had to see what it would look like…and I was pleased.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_0837-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_0838-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_0850-1.jpg

On the round-up of the trans tunnel I kept the raptor liner that I used on the floor, and painted the rest of the firewall with the hot rod black. Here is a texture close up:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_0851-1.jpg

Making a cut for the fuse panel from the classic update. I plan on routing all of the wires over the driver’s wheel well, and fabbing up a cover plate that will hide the wires.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_0945-1.jpg

[Ron.in.SoCal]

Absintheis-having-fun! Project is on a roll Bro. I used the SEM HRB and the also Raprtor. Did you dilute the Raptor? Looks great...:thumbsup:

[BirdsThaWord]

Your project is coming along very well! Looks like you are taking the time to do it right and have good foresite on stuff. Thanks for sharing. I'll keep watching.

[craigs73]

lol must have had same person do our body work! mine was same way but atleast they welded mine over the old yours must have been done late friday night lol

[absintheisfun]

Next on the list was deleting the drip rails. I think this might have been the most nervous I've been since the first time I spun my car on the rotisserie. After many searches, I found tons of drip-rail delete questions but not a whole lot of consistent answers about the process of removing the rails, so I was kind of flying blind on this.

It took about 20 hours over three days to get the driver’s side done, and a little over 5 hours to do the passenger side. Amazing what a little experience and confidence will do for efficiency! They still need some work to get right, but they are pretty close to finished.
I wanted it to have definition (as if there was a rail there), but didn’t want the rails. Imagine how happy I was to find out that there is a little ridge hidden underneath the drips!

Took my time and cut out about 4 inches at a time and tack welded about every ½ inch.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/102_0878-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/102_0882-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/102_0881-1.jpg

Got some steel rod and finished it up so the bottom of the not-a driprail would be smooth:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/102_0894-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/102_0896-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/102_0893-1.jpg
After thousands upon thousands of tack welds:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/102_0899-1.jpg

Ground smooth and sprayed with rattle can primer for effect:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/102_0873-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/102_0872-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/102_0871-1.jpg

Like I said, plenty of flaws right now, but MUCH better than what it had. The only time it was really challenging was on the A pillar where it was leaded in at the factory.

Another issue was the fact that the ridge all but dissapears on the A-pillar so I had to build up the area with weld to create one.

[absintheisfun]

Ran out and got a couple of pics--

It is difficult to get a good shot of these in primer. I'm hoping that they "pop" a little better when there is paint on them! Here is the best shot I could get of the transition on the A-pillar.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1127-1.jpg

Here is the backside where the drip tapers off at the quarter. I didn't want it to just end, but I didn't want it to go further than the window channel.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1128-1.jpg

[bonecrrusher]

Do you have a pic of the drip rails still installed?

I guess I'm having a hard time seeing the before vs after...

[absintheisfun]

Absintheis-having-fun! Project is on a roll Bro. I used the SEM HRB and the also Raprtor. Did you dilute the Raptor? Looks great...:thumbsup:
I didn't dilute it--didn't know that you could! I did make a mistake in not cleaning the gun after the first bottle. Went back about 30 minutes later and the gun was glued to the original bottle...had to go back to the store and get another gun. Those things are like 45 bucks on their own, or for 90.00 you can get two more bottles of Raptor and a gun for free.


Your project is coming along very well! Looks like you are taking the time to do it right and have good foresite on stuff. Thanks for sharing. I'll keep watching.
Thanks for the compliments. At the start I thought "Oh I'll zip through this in no time!" Then when I had to buy a second Left side floor board and second passenger side seat mount after making mistakes I realized that the first step in any part of this is think it through! Since then I've been known to stare at the car for an extended period of time and then checking online, then staring, then checking online...so on and so forth until I feel comfortable with the next step I take.


Do you have a pic of the drip rails still installed?

I guess I'm having a hard time seeing the before vs after...

Unfortunately I don't. I did some googling and came across this pic...the car is rusted through, but the image gives a good perspective on the drip rail.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/DSC02522JPG-1.jpg

[absintheisfun]

On to the frame…what an adventure!
I ordered a front sub from Heidts because it had a very similar appearance to stock and looked a bit sturdier than others in the same price range. My stock frame was tweaked, but really I just wanted an aftermarket one :) and I liked the idea of starting from scratch.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_0569-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_0575-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_0577-1.jpg

After Powdercoating, and first assembly
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_0626-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_0783-1.jpg

Well, as awesome as it was, turns out it was in the jig wrong at assembly and the engine mounts were not right. Quick rundown of the adventure:
I didn't really know anything was wrong until I tried to mount my LS/trans in the frame...
I ordered the edelbrock LS adapter plates and energy suspension SBC mounts from summit.
They sent adapter plates for a different vehicle-I wouldn’t think it would make a difference on the mounting of the engine to the frame, but wouldn't be too surprised if there were header/firewall/steering clearance issues though. If only that was the problem. . .if only
Sent back the wrong mounts and got the right ones but the engine was still not fitting. The best way to describe it is that the engine was too wide for the mounts on the frame.
Here are some shots of the engine sitting in the frame.
Left side bolted in:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/Passside-1.jpg

Driver’s side:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/Driverside-1.jpg

Called Heidts and they said to get the energy suspension LS conversion kit and it should work. I did, and as the previous pics show, it didn't work.

Talked with Owen in the Heidts engineering over a period of a few days and did some measuring and sent some pictures and after working with me he determined that the frame was tweaked during assembly. :doh:

The good news? They owned up to it and sent me a new frame. :)

Got it two weeks later. They are a hell of a company and believe me when I say that this single experience has made me a customer of theirs for life. Everyone makes mistakes, but not everyone is willing to own up to it, or make it right. They did both. I’ve already talked to them about my next project.

The arms, R&P, sway bar, spindles all just transferred over, and since ordering it originally, Heidts changed the design to accept wider tires. The frame is actually 2 inches narrower, so bonus for me.
The only thing that didn’t transfer were the coilovers. The old ones were about 2 inches shorter than the redesign. So when I put my wheels back on, it looked like I had slammed bags up front. It brought the frame so low, I actually couldn’t get my jack out from under it! Again I called Owen and he was quick to say oops, and sent out the right ones the next day.

[analyte]

Great build and enjoying the fab work!!

[tommycomfort]

Fantastic build. Looking forward to watching it go together. All I can say is "stay the course".
Tom

[BirdsThaWord]

Man you move quick! I have a question about your firewall. Did you weld the edges? I saw the adhesive, but am not sure how you finished the edges. Also, what type of metal supplier did you go to where they offered you to plasma cut it? I want top follow in your foot steps!
What about the VIN plate that was on the firewall? Can I legally remove it and then re attach it to the new firewall?

[absintheisfun]

Man you move quick! I have a question about your firewall. Did you weld the edges? I saw the adhesive, but am not sure how you finished the edges. Also, what type of metal supplier did you go to where they offered you to plasma cut it? I want top follow in your foot steps!
What about the VIN plate that was on the firewall? Can I legally remove it and then re attach it to the new firewall?

Not really as quick as it seems. You are catching up on about 3 months of work all at once. To keep it alive for a little bit I am spacing a little each day. I was going to do this when the car was complete, but like I said in the first post---plans change and I got delayed because I landed a new job. So, not bad news...just slow for the build news.

As far as the firewall, I welded the perimeter and welded the hole were the stock A/C Evap was removed. As far as the legality of removing the VIN--I am pretty sure that removing a VIN tag is illegal, but the firewall tag is just a "cowl tag" and only lists the build sequence and fisher info of the vehicle. The VIN is in the door jam below the A-pillar. There is a bunch of info on it here (http://www.camaros.org/numbers.shtml#PartialVIN). I actually kept the cowl tag and plan on putting it back in the vehicle somewhere...just don't know where yet.

Newest outdated update coming in a few min...

[sr73bu]

Project is coming along nicely!!! Keep at it!!!!

-Sean

[CruizinKev]

oh yeah looks great so far! :twothumbs

[absintheisfun]

After getting the new frame on, I started playing with the panel alignment and noticed that the inner wheel wells just didn’t look right. To be honest, they looked more awkward than a horse walking around in a glue factory. The wells were very narrow, relative to the frame so you could see the ground between them. I wanted the wells to fit the frame.

I started simple, cutting out the old and trying to widen them:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1078-1.jpg

The problem was with the lower supports where it mounts to the firewall. I wanted to keep them for rigidity, but they presented a problem with the well modification:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1073-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1058-1.jpg
After getting done with the driver’s side and putting it on the car, I thought it looked kind of stupid...so, on to try # 2. I know that there is a good looking design somewhere in there just aching to get out.
The thing I didn't like was the back end near the firewall where it just fades down, and the actual benefit of a narrower frame is completely lost. I thought about it and came up with a new way to keep the brackets while minimizing the realestate they take:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1052-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1051-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1053-1.jpg
This game me room to bring the expansion back further:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1055-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1056-1.jpg

Here is the end result (passenger side):
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1062-1.jpg

Still a little bulky, and I’m not really liking the “table-top” look to it. Take three:
By tapering the back end a little more dramatically, it looked a little less bulky and more fitting to the car (imo).
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1080-1.jpg

**I know I’m flipping driver’s side/passenger side in a bunch of these shots, but I was trying to post the best possible shots to describe what I was talking about***


The next delema was adding rigidity. A simple bend at the end would do, but I’ve never really added a crease to formed metal.

My solution?



Take a strip of 16 gauge steel and with the brute force of a vice and hammer, make a bend! I'm sure a metal brake would have been better, but I don't have one and I have no room in my garage for more big tools :(
After giving it a beating, I made relief cuts to help shape it. I clamped it in, drew a line, cut it off and then weld in the bend!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1081-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1082-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1083-1.jpg

I wanted to get creative around the upper arms, and while it was tricky, it was doable.
Making a template:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1090-1.jpg

I made some relief cuts and matched the template (using sheet metal screws to plywood). Add in triangular scraps and weld it solid.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1091-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1092-1.jpg

My inspiration for the shape? My trusty box cutter
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1089-1.jpg

I know it looks like I am leaving no room for suspension travel, but the shocks that are on the vehicle right now are 2 inches shorter than what will be there, so the top of the tire is literally rubbing the top of the wheel well. If the arms go any further than this opening, there are bigger problems than the opening! Lol
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1093-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1094-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1101-1.jpg

[absintheisfun]

Well, I took tons of pics on the wells, so I have to take two posts to finish it up!


I wanted the front portion to follow the contour of the sub, so I started cutting away:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1096-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1097-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1104-1.jpg

Here is the rough-in finish. I need to cut out some and weld in better patches (like I said it was built almost entirely with small pieces of metal. I wanted to see what it would look like so I rattle canned the driver’s side with some cheap primer. I ran out so the passenger side is in a “hammered” rustoleum!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1106-1.jpg https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1109-1.jpg

still a few rough areas to work out, but the overall idea is there.

[BirdsThaWord]

Thanks much for the info! Wells look trick. Too bad so much work ncause I bet you could sell those to anyone buying that sub frame. When I do mine, I'm gonna have to pay somebody to do what you did as I've never welded anything. Thanks for keeping us updated. Your kind of build (very hands on) is what spurs me into attack mode on mine!

[CruizinKev]

wow nice fab work! looks great :twothumbs

[rohrt]

Love the fab work.

[absintheisfun]

The last update (wheel wells) was work that was done in April. We are now catching up to where the project sits today…This was as of 4 days ago:
I finally got a day off to play around so I decided to do some initial mock-up. Engine mounted in (Trans mount needs some work, but it is sitting in as it will be) Headers installed to check ground clearance
Master/Clutch/Clutch res/ prop valve assembly fits nice and tight—I was concerned that the wells might create some interference
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1118-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1119-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1117-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1116-1.jpg


Everything seems to be fitting fine. I need to put the steering linkage in but I’m waiting until I fix the R&P. It rubs on the engine mount during turning so I either need to readjust the mounting points to give it more of an angle or I need to grind down the opening below the engine mount.
I’ll probably end up adjusting the R&P mounts because I definitely don’t want to weaken the engine mounts.

Now that I know where the engine is going to sit I can start working on my handlebars.

After the engine and trans test fit, I started working on getting the hood on and putting in my hoodpins in.

God I missed this view! This is the first time I’ve had the pleasure of sitting in the driver's seat and looking down the long hood.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1123-1.jpg

Well, last update for a few days at least. I will hopefully have the final mock up on the center console done this weekend, but time-wise that could be tough. We shall see...

[rustomatic]

I am truly amazed by your story about Heidt's. While I have no present need for their stuff, I would definitely consider it in the future, after reading your post. Thanks for testifying to their willingness to own up to what happened!

[BirdsThaWord]

Looks like (in the last shot) you are going to build a custom peice from your center dash down to a console? I'm very interested to see what you're going to do there. Will that come down and meet a late model console? Inner fenders look great with everything in plce now!

[absintheisfun]

I am working on the console right now. It is going to be a waterfall that will join the dash and a center console. I have this idea in my head and have gone through several drafts getting closer and closer each time. I think I have it figured out, but won't really have anything to show off until this weekend (HOPEFULLY).
It will make more sense when you see it, but it will take the initial ridge-out of the stock dash and blend into a waterfall.

[absintheisfun]

In an effort to post any progress made since I now have only 1 or 2 days a week to work on it. Here is the console as of the end of today, and the progress (or lack there of) leading to it.
As of about 45 minutes ago:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1153-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1150-1.jpg

This all started with an atttempt to make a waterfall with 1/4" plywood, but I figured out that when I tried to mount it solid the wood would crumble and splinter.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_0937-1.jpg

So, I stepped it up to 3/4" particle board:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_0946-1.jpg

This had the same crumbling problem, and it was lacking any flexibility to form it to the curves of the stock dash and sharp tapered angles that I needed. I walked away from it for a few months because I was at my wits end. Another problem was the E-brake. The ebrake and front seats are out of a 90's 3000GT, and the width of the ebrake mounts were interfering with the thickness of the particle board. Routing out the shape was the only way to make it fit. Looking back now it makes me laugh, but at that time I thought I was a damn genius.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_0948-1.jpg

The other day I noticed when I was bending my brake lines that they were pretty stout, but still had some flexibility...I ran to Lowes and picked up 1/4" steel rod and went to town.

Shaping them after the wooden ones was easier said than done, but ultimately worked out:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1130-1.jpg

I used nail-in wire holders to lock the outsides in place and then tacked in supports.
After trying unsuccessfully to reuse them, I went and got some of these:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1136-1.jpg

and the result was night and day!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1135-1.jpg

I even used them to help secure it to the dash. I welded them to the frames and used bolts to secure it. Here you can see the new vs. old.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1140-1.jpg

I plan on using fiberglass and wrapping the steel skeleton. I got a center vent out of a Saturn at the junkyard that I thought was very evenly split and balanced on both sides, and more importantly, was just the right width!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1149-1.jpg

I was working on the center bezel for the shift boot when I had to call it for the day
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1150-1.jpg

Here it is, hopefully Sunday I'll have more done
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1148-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1153-1.jpg

[absintheisfun]

Unfortunately time is in very limited supply, but I did manage to get a full 10 hours today to experiment and try a few things out with the console

Here is what I started with this morning
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1154-1.jpg

I needed to make an "L" channel on the inside so I got some ittybitty square tubing and cut it in half at the corners (much more challenging than it sounds!)
You'll see in some other pictures that the top is set to angle upwards in, and then the channel is on the inside. I'm going to set the top in a little lower than the sides
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1155-1.jpg

Best way I can think of to explain it is if you were to do a cutaway it would look like this:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/Untitled-1.png

After stealing some panty-hose from my wife, I layed down the initial fiberglass matt and took down the rough humps. You can see the channel on the one side, but the inward angles are just not visible in pictures. When it is is primer it will be pretty apparent though.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1156-1.jpg

I'm trying to figure out the best way to "mate" it to the dash. I want it as a seperate piece, but have a very small joint. I tried Duraglass:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1157-1.jpg

And sanded the crap out of it until the excess was gone. I used the factory definition of the stock center piece to shape it to the console.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1159-1.jpg

All appeared well when I seperated it for the first time, but the duraglass is just too flexible and soft to be as thin as it needs to be so I'll probably end up using regular fiberglass and resin.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1160-1.jpg

I decided to scrap the joints and get at least one side done so I could see what I have been working on for the past two weeks. I needed to see what it looked like! The top is just a set in piece of paperboard and the opening at the top is for the center AC vent.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1161-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1162-1.jpg

These are the rough-in shots. I'll hopefully have the finished product by next Friday...still a long way to go. I think I have about 30 hours in this edition of the console, probably 60 in the console as a whole in its various forms!

[CruizinKev]

wow good fab work! console will look great! :twothumbs

[chunger]

Looking good! So, the sides of the console - are they fiberglass? What are you going to create the top of the console out of?

[BirdsThaWord]

Dang! That should look really good when done. I like how you are going to have it contoured to the dash. Looks like it will be strong enough to take a leaning on without caving in or anything with that frame you built for it. Just make sure you make 2 cause I'm gonna need one!!! :2nd:

[absintheisfun]

The sides are layered with a fiberglass matt and then smoothed out with dyna-glass. The top is going to be a piece of sheet steel--I think. I purposly made the channel deeper than it needed to be in case I wanted to do something thicker. Part of me wants to see what a piece of clear plexi-glass with the inside painted would look like.

[BirdsThaWord]

What will your interior color be? Have you looked at the hydro printing? They can "print" on the backside of the plexi and color or image whatever you want (a picture, skulls, ANYTHING). It's the process they used to "print" the $100 bills on the "money" bike American Choppers did. Not sure of the cost, or if it would be of interest to you, but just an idea.

[absintheisfun]

The sides of the console, dash and door tops will all be the same red I ultimately choose for the color of the car. The seats, dashpad and the center console's top inlay will be black.

It looks really good in my head...red car, red trim with a black stripe outisde and inside.

[BirdsThaWord]

Sounds like the reverse of the Marquez car's interior. I'm really thinking about going with their interior, layed out exactly like theirs is, but I don't think they make a console. That's one of the reasons I'm so interested in your console build!

[absintheisfun]

Well, its not really a big update, but I got something to show. I messed up my hands last week and couldn't get anything done until today. I had a few hours to smooth out the other side and start shaping the banks and start the area around the center vent. It looks like crap, but at least now the banks are a bit visible.

In my normal fashion, I put the cart before the horse and spayed some primer so I could get a better visual of it. I emphasise the roughness of how it looks, but this is just a step in the process towards completion. The back looks like crap because it will connect with a second piece that will run through and between the rear seats.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/100_1168-1.jpg

[BirdsThaWord]

It's a work in progress, but I can see where you are going with it. Like I said, make sure you are making 2 (LOL!) because I love it!!!!

[absintheisfun]

So, two months later and I finally have an update! If you haven't heard, the weather in Texas (DFW) right now is flat out miserable. We had 40 consecutive days of 100+, a day off (97) and it has been 100+ ever since. I think we are on day 56 now. The average high AVERAGE has been around 105. Combine that with the fact that I have work keeping me completely swamped, and I just haven't had time to touch it.

Today I finally got a day off, and it was pretty cool this morning so I got some work done. My chronic ADD got me interested in another piece that has been sitting in my garage for a while:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/08/100_1175-1.jpg

I want to incorporate the 69 parking lights, so here i go:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/08/100_1174-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/08/100_1178-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/08/100_1180-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/08/100_1181-1.jpg

I've seen several different iterations of this...some real close together, some farther apart...I think GM did a pretty good job of spacing, so I did my very best to keep it exactly as it is on the 69 (see my template on a paper towel above the piece.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/08/100_1185-1.jpg

And at 3:00, I called it. The good 'ol Texas weather caught up to me...this is what the thermometer said in my garage. Good God I'm ready for October!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/08/100_1184-1.jpg

I have to say, I really underestimated the amount of work that this would take. I didn't realize just how different the arches are between the different years. Lots of hammering and heating and shrinking...

[absintheisfun]

Got another day to work on her...

I got out to the garage a little too early to be hammering and grinding, so I took the opportunity to install my fuel rails:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/08/100_1187-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/08/100_1189-1.jpg

It is kind of amazing how much difference aftermarket rails make compared to the stock ones.

I used this kit from pro-products. The name doesn't carry the same clout as some of the other big names, but at 1/3 of the cost, it is really hard to argue with!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/08/100_1188-1.jpg

All in all, it fit together great, and was a joke to install. I'm not really sure why, but they included instructions :) The only complaint I have is how insanely long the crossover is. I'll get it shortened before too long though and make it look a little better.

After that it was about 9, so I decided it was time to bang away at the other side..
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/08/100_1190-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/08/100_1191-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/08/100_1195-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/08/100_1194-1.jpg

I had a little tin-can effect on the one side, so I used the rapid heat rapid cool technique to shrink it a bit. That is why there is a "blued" circle...

[FRENCHBLUE72]

Keep up the good work.. Thanks for the ideas on building a center counsel from scratch as thats where I am at with my project...

[absintheisfun]

Been awhile since an update--haven't really had much time to work on her, so there really hasn't been much to show...

I've backed off of the console-going to have to go back to the drawing board. The area where the fiberglass meets the dash is too thin and simply crumbles and flakes when it is bumped so I'm going to have to come up with something else. Given the frustration on that, I've decided to tackle my gaps. I've got the driver's side door complete, and I have the driver's fender roughed in. With the holidays approaching, I'm not going to have much time to work on her again until Sunday, so hopefully I'll have a good update then. Until now, here are some pics:

Door completed:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/11/20111118111928-1.jpg

Start of the fender. The top crease was a little low, relative to the door so I had to put in a relief cut to raise it just a bit--maybe a millimeter.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/11/20111118112040-1.jpg

The top wasn't too bad, but the bottom gap was horrendous! I built the top up with straight weld, but used a rod on the bottom, and still had to add to it!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/11/20111118143523-1.jpg

It is just roughed in for now, have some hammering and more welding and grinding to do. My phone is not uploading to my PB account, so this'll have to do for now...

[LUACE]

Killer thread!!! I'm digging this build!

[sixfivepost]

Lookin' good! Now I don't feel so bad about my firewall panel. I've been stressing out because I did nearly the exact same thing as you. In hindsight, I wish I would have first used primer on the back side of the smooth panel instead of just the adhesive before welding. Oh well, I doubt water or moisture will get back there enough to cause a problem. At least I'm not the only one who didn't primer the back first.

[LeighP]

Nice work...I really like what you did with the valance panel and the lights.

[absintheisfun]

Not a whole lot done today :( My best friend from when I was growing up rolled through town last night, and we stayed up all night drinking and catching up...needless to say, grinding, hammering and welding doesn't really do wonders for a hangover!

The work today is rough because of the headache, but I'll have it all cleaned up later this week, and will have it done!

Here is where I started this morning:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/11/20111120181334-1.jpg

I didn't really have it in me to do a whole lot of gap work, so I decided to move to the A-Pillar and top of the fender. My goal is to add flush glass, so without the lower molding from the factory, the A-pillar looks awkward.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/11/20111127103655-1.jpg

Added a bunch of metal to the bottom of the A-pillar to lengthen and finish it flush to the newly extended fender.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/11/20111127122946-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/11/20111127122648-1.jpg

For reference, here is what the untouched passenger side looks like alongside the roughed in driver's side:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/11/compare-1.jpg

[absintheisfun]

Now I don't feel so bad about my firewall panel. I've been stressing out because I did nearly the exact same thing as you. In hindsight, I wish I would have first used primer on the back side of the smooth panel instead of just the adhesive before welding.

The panel bond that I used required metal to metal. If there was primer, it is possible that it wouldn't have bonded well and bonding primer to primer could have led to the primer pulling away from the metal. Besides, after bonding it the complete peremeter was welded and sealed...any moisture getting between the panels would be pretty much impossible.

[BCHALK22]

Cool build cant wait to see more....

[absintheisfun]

Made some progress today. I'll hopefully be done with the fender gap tomorrow, and on to the other side.

I added weld bead up the entire fender and cleaned up and rewelded the fender stretch to the A-pillar.
After grinding down the surface smooth, I added tape to set the gap at 0.1550". This gives some wiggle room to use a file and get it to 0.1660 (A little tighter than 1/8", but the goal for all gaps on the car).

Here it is with the tape set up:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/20111201174309-1.jpg

Here it is after initial grinding: (picture looks distorted a little, but it is perfect .155 from top to bottom.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/20111201182226-1.jpg

A closer shot of the fender stretch and A-pillar extension:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/20111201182202-1.jpg

[jtm311]

Really nice work!!! I was also thing of taking the drip rails off.. :)

John

[SRD art]

Lookin good, I admire your get in there and fabricate attitude! Keep it rollin'!

[absintheisfun]

My wife has had a monster cold for the past two weeks, and somehow I have managed to avoid catching it....until now. I didn't really feel up to working on her today, but I felt that I HAD to do something...anything to be able to mark something off of the checklist...

Some of you may remember some odd blue triangles on my wheel wells and if you wondered what they were there for, here you go:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/05/100_1101-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/20111204115950-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/20111204120926-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/20111204121624-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/20111204121614-1.jpg

I didn't think it would be that much work to do, but man it was extremely time consuming and it still looks pretty rough. I just ran out of steam and had to call it for the day.

I'm talking with a cage builder about making the bends in steel tubing based off of the PVC templates.
I plan on welding bolt-through plates on the 4 ends of the tubes and making them removable and reinforce the front ends. I wanted to add some chassis stiffening to the front end and be able to tie it to the cage I'll have in the car.

[daytonayellaz]

WOW!! You have been busy! Looking good bro.... keep at it, you will get there! :cheers:

[craigs73]

it looking good :machine:

[absintheisfun]

My compressor died about a month ago..it was a crappy 29 gal single stage hf special so I knew its days were numbered...I made a serious upgrade and got a Quincy 60 gallon. From TOD to delivery of my new compressor was nearly a full month! Needless to say, all work pretty much stopped :-( I'll have a good update on Thursday :-)

Been working on a couple of really cool things I can't wait to show off

[absintheisfun]

I've been busy as hell and haven't had much time at all to work on the Camaro, but I think I have enough to show-and-tell for now.

Center Console - - - Take THREE!
I've scrapped the last rendention of my console-I didn't really like the amount of space above the center vent, and the fiberglass edge where it mated to the factory dash was so thin that any slight "oops" would chip it. I didn't want to deal with the extreme fragility of it, so this time I've decided to go direct and weld it to the factory dash. I kept the same shape, and used 14 gauge steel, so it could withstand some abuse without bending, and went to town:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/01/20120115082419-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/01/20120115082352-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/01/20120115082402-1.jpg


hope this one turns out right, because I have a feeling it is going to be REAL hard to get back to original!

At this time the sides are bolted to the upper portion, but I may just weld it in....at this point I'm keeping my options open. I like the removabe idea, but I don't have a good reason-I don't plan on taking it apart once it is finished!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/01/20120117071330-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/01/20120126170524-1.jpg

On to the other project that has been keeping me:
Front frame support-
I finally found a guy locally that could bend cagework and he and his son did a kick-a$$ job using my templates as a guide:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/01/20120122112944-1.jpg

LIKE A GLOVE
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/01/20120126170356-1.jpg
room for the brake and clutch master, prop valve and now my inner fender wells can show off why they are shaped the way they are! I've picked up a few different types of bolts and have settled on the tapered head for more of a flush appearance, but only picked up three of each type (little $%^&* are expensive!)

Thats it for now-Not a whole lot, given the time since the last update, but with only about 5 hours a week to work on it, I think i'm using my time wisely! I am going to start on the other side of the frame next week and hopefully be able to go back and finish the console. My front pulley system shoud be here by the end of february and my Radiator and condenser arrived yesterday...maybe mid-march first start? maybe?:fingersx:

[rfalker1]

you are doing great work!!!!!!! keep it uppp

[cencalc6]

Awsome Build Thread!....you are doing an excellent job.

[absintheisfun]

I got a little time today to work on the hood, and initial install of my Entropy Radiator.

My initial take on entropy is that the quality looks good-I'll have to wait until I run it to see if it performs good as well. True to their claim, it does mount in the factory mounting points, but there is a fitment problem. I can't close my hood! I have a fiberglass hood, so a factory steel one might not present the same problem, but for me I'll have to lower it about 3/4".

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/01/20120129102200-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/01/20120129102030-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/01/20120129102016-1.jpg

And now for the interference!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/01/20120129102053-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/01/20120129102114-1.jpg

I'll have to get a radiator cap and put it on to be sure, but it appears as if I mount it 3/4" lower, it should clear the hood just fine.

I started playing with the big ole' hole in the Stinger hood to see if there was a way I could fab a fill plate that 1) sealed it and 2) looked good.
This is just a start, and I'll have to make another, but so far I like the direction it is taking. I cut a steel plate that would fit the back, and then cut some gutter blocker that I got a Home Depot to the same shape. it is steel, but it is so frail that even at its lowest setting, my welder blasted it. No matter how careful I was at cutting and grinding it, I coudn't get it to fit perfectly flush with the underside, so i may cut a slot in the upper cowl portion and countersink the plate in there so it is air tight and looks better. Here it sits now (it will be painted black)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/01/20120129102316-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/01/20120129102339-1.jpg

[absintheisfun]

About two weeks ago, I somehow managed to get a sliver of steel embedded in my right eye. Good news is that my right eye was pretty horrible to begin with, and after all is said and done, there is no vision loss :) And yes, I was wearing safety glasses! I had to go back today to get the last of the rust out and because of the eye problems I haven't gotten much done, but after my visit to the eye doc today, a big surprise was left by the man in Brown:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

LS series Pro-track from March Performance:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif


There are some typical "bolt-in" issues, but nothing that should cause too much fuss.

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

My install (less the crank pulley as I have to get the adapter)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

I put some of my thoughts on this thread (https://www.pro-touring.com/showthread.php?85477-Accessory-Drives-Anyone-using-the-March-Performance-Pro-Track-setup&p=884906#post884906)in the LSX sub forum where this kit was being discussed.

All in all, a beautiful kit and it went together easy enough. Looking forward to the day when she fires!

My electronic throttle interfered with the kit. It was mentioned on the website that it might so I guess I’ll have to go ahead and get that Fast 102 and mechanical TB. Aww shucks!

[Z10ROD]

good looking project and a Local to boot

[chapster]

What throttle body do you have. I am also looking at purchasing this kit but am afraid it will hit my gto ls2 throttle body

[diesel25lrs]

Great build absinthe! Following this one! I too did the same thing with my eye... Damn grinders...
Keep it up!

[chapster]

Thought I would pass on some info. I talked to March and they indicated that the TB with pass side motor control (GTO) should fit but the drivers side (corvette) will hit. Not sure what style you have.

[67fenix]

Any updates on the build??

[absintheisfun]

Its been awhile (understatement, I know...but true none the less). Life has gotten in the way of this project, and put it on an almost permanent back burner...But, time has shifted my favor and I'm back on it. I might have to rename the project "7 year itch," but that would be untrue to the amount of years it has been going :)

Since I stepped away from it, we bought a new house with a new shop, flipped the house and shop, restored a Jeep YJ and other distractions that kept me from it.

But I'm back, and after working on some details I neglected or just plain didn't do very well the first time, I'm moving towards progress. Those pics will come, but today is about forward progress. Driver's side gaps are done and complete. Here are the progress pics of that:


After a bit of massaging, got the fender on and spaced pretty well. Needed some gap work, but all in all, not too bad! Don't have a pre-welding pic, but you can see I had to cut and modify the rocker so it fit better. It was a little stuck out from the car, so I had to cut it top to bottom so the gap between the fender would be correct, then cut it so it would be flush with the door and fender. This is pre-cleanup.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/08/20160731_123445_zpsgdqdrgqr-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20160731_123445_zpsgdqdrgqr.jpg.html)

Ran the 1/8" rod all the way up so I could cut back the gap. After grinding and sanding down the weld, this is how it looked. WAY TOO SKINNY!!! Almost couldn't open the door to get the bolts loose!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/08/20160731_180435_zpssvsj6l4v-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20160731_180435_zpssvsj6l4v.jpg.html)

After measuring, taping and cutting, Got the gap pretty good (to start), but cut into the door skin a bit and had to weld it back up.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/08/20160803_084041_zpsegueyepd-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20160803_084041_zpsegueyepd.jpg.html)

That's Better!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/08/20160803_091149_zpskqq7dlo9-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20160803_091149_zpskqq7dlo9.jpg.html)

Sprayed some quick rattle-can primer so I could better see the gap, and make some adjustments if necessary.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/08/20160803_092735_zpsistuk8b4-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20160803_092735_zpsistuk8b4.jpg.html)

The bottom is just a bit skinnier than the top, so have to shave a bit off
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/08/20160803_102626_zps0d6z5enl-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20160803_102626_zps0d6z5enl.jpg.html)

After shaving the bottom again, even 3/16" gap all along the front fender and bottom of the door!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/08/20160803_102616_zpslsewyquw-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20160803_102616_zpslsewyquw.jpg.html)

After a little hammer work, plenty of room to open the door!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/08/20160803_102704_zpsb6exuky8-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20160803_102704_zpsb6exuky8.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/08/20160803_103550_zps3bouv4pi-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20160803_103550_zps3bouv4pi.jpg.html)

Still have some tidying to do, but its a good stop point for now, and a good catch-up on the build post. Hopefully this is just the start of the finishing of the build. Still have plenty to do, a schedule that allows me to work on it, and the motivation to GET IT DONE so I can finally drive it!

The Question I have for the professionals is, With the rear door to quarter gap, it is smaller than 3/16". Should I widen it a bit so it matches all the way around, or keep the gap minimized as it is?

[absintheisfun]

Had the day off work, so I spent pretty much all of it in the shop. Made some needed improvements to my passenger side wheel well, but unfortunately it doesn't show as much progress as it felt like it should!

Set up, cut and welded my passenger side firewall support bar
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/08/20160805_115429_zpsadgqbp8o-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20160805_115429_zpsadgqbp8o.jpg.html)

I had the bar bent a LONG time ago at the same time I had the other one bent, and they were made from a PVC template, but had to be shortened to fit, and the mounting bases had to be cut and shaped.
I made some tape templates of the bases off of the driver side and went to town:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/08/20160805_084614_zpsbda0rg1i-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20160805_084614_zpsbda0rg1i.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/08/20160805_094529_zpsg06pvuch-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20160805_094529_zpsg06pvuch.jpg.html)

Getting it exactly like the driver side was a bit of a bit$# ! Took way more time than I had anticipated! Sadly, when I got it all measured and tacked in, I noticed that the passenger side well was not as wide as the driver side. This made everything look...weird. I didn't get a pic of the weirdness...just wanted it to go away!

Here is the driver side from a top down view:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/08/20160805_115417_zps29lkthm8-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20160805_115417_zps29lkthm8.jpg.html)

The weird... passenger (skinnier than the driver)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/08/20160805_115429_zpsadgqbp8o-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20160805_115429_zpsadgqbp8o.jpg.html)

Cutting into a finished well....ouch! started pulling on it and ultimately added about 3/4" of material to it
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/08/20160805_120050_zpsluutguer-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20160805_120050_zpsluutguer.jpg.html)

Tacking in some holding steel:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/08/20160805_125224_zpsqom70qed-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20160805_125224_zpsqom70qed.jpg.html)

Removed the fender and went to town welding, cutting and cleaning....here is the end result.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/08/20160805_165514_zpso3jrwpjr-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20160805_165514_zpso3jrwpjr.jpg.html)

Now it matches (passenger):
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/08/20160805_165615_zpsce2zoqul-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20160805_165615_zpsce2zoqul.jpg.html)

Driver side
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/08/20160805_165534_zpsn6zqfbak-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20160805_165534_zpsn6zqfbak.jpg.html)

View from the front
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/08/20160805_170315_zpspoxiabsy-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20160805_170315_zpspoxiabsy.jpg.html)

Have some more cleaning up to do, but it was 102 today and my shop a/c and fan combo wasn't cutting it so at 5 I called it. Will get back on the cleaning on Monday....as soon as I'm done with that, On to the passenger fender!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/08/20160805_170411_zpsknmcbfau-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20160805_170411_zpsknmcbfau.jpg.html)

[absintheisfun]

I've been working on getting the panels aligned and finished so I can put it behind me and have some REAL progress! The driver side went pretty well, so I moved to passenger side and it too went rather smoothly (some fitment issues, but nothing so bad that it made me walk away).

Here are the finished pics of the passenger side:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/20160920_204718_zpsoflt0o2g-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20160920_204718_zpsoflt0o2g.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/20160920_204726_zpsru3p2fp3-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20160920_204726_zpsru3p2fp3.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/20160920_204746_zpszhyjg8dm-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20160920_204746_zpszhyjg8dm.jpg.html)

Got me to the hood fitment...I'm not 100% sold on the motion hood, but it's what I've got so I'm going along with it until I make the final descision. I love the cowl hood, but like the way this looks as well...its becoming a tough decision.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/20160920_205954_zpsmchbluj1-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20160920_205954_zpsmchbluj1.jpg.html)


The gaps aren't bad, and since it's fiberglass, its going to be a little easier to fill and gap than steel. The real issue with this was the hood pins. I had to fabricate buckets on the core support to counter sink the mounting nuts. It still needs some fine tuning, but all in all the fit is great and it went smoothly.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/20160920_204417_zpsg9ydknuy-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20160920_204417_zpsg9ydknuy.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/20160920_204423_zpsxxolexzg-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20160920_204423_zpsxxolexzg.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/20160920_204555_zpsslidauje-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20160920_204555_zpsslidauje.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/20160920_204811_zpskemw1tus-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20160920_204811_zpskemw1tus.jpg.html)


The problem I'm having now is the front lower valance. The mating points between the driver finder and the valance is way off (1/4" or so). I was thinking of cutting and rewelding the front end, but wanted to see if anyone here had any ideas?
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/20160921_201249_zpskl1kpknx-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20160921_201249_zpskl1kpknx.jpg.html)

Here is the passenger side for reference:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/20160921_201404_zps4no20o4f-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20160921_201404_zps4no20o4f.jpg.html)

I just don't see any way around cutting and rewelding it to fit the contour correctly and allowing for a fit with the valance. As well as the finder fit everywhere else, I guess I should have expected a glitch somewhere...

[rohrt]

Nice gap work. Love the build

[Motown 454]

Nice gap work. Love the build

I agree great job.

[absintheisfun]

I put the lower valance on and checked to see if the fender needed to be cut, or if the lower fender needed to be stretched, and it seemed best to cut the fender...oddly enough, that two inch cut and weld was possibly the most difficult taks so far on this project. It took 3 hours of welding and grinding to get it right. All the while in very uncomfortable spark receiving positions...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/20160922_202155_zps8ehyn4xm-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20160922_202155_zps8ehyn4xm.jpg.html)

i sat back when i was done and remeasured everything to see if i was truly done with all the major shaping, and discovered that the gap on the passenger side door is about 1/16" wider than the driver side. Ill get that corrected next week. After that its time to tear it all down and get the sub powder coated. Excited to have some momentum on this build again!

[absintheisfun]

This week was aproductive one. Got the front support bars competed and perfect.
(No pics, but there are several in my past posts of them in place)

Got the subframe connectors in. (No pics again-my bad)

The biggest hurdle was getting the steering in place. Heidts said that they used sweet u-joints because they are a bit thinner, but I already got borgeson and they fit. My real troubles exist with the edelbrock headers. #1 tube prevents a single connection to the column, so i needed to fab up a carrier support mount.
(Got pics of that!)

Here is the interference
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/20161005_184043_zpshqxqg0za-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20161005_184043_zpshqxqg0za.jpg.html)


I tacked a piece of sheetmetal to the frame to test fit the carrier...seems good (but ugly!)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/20161006_111807_zpsrmx2mmjs-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20161006_111807_zpsrmx2mmjs.jpg.html)

There is about 1/2" clearance for the headers
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/20161006_111801_zpsrmxlfmn9-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20161006_111801_zpsrmxlfmn9.jpg.html)

Time to work some cardboard and make a template
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/20161006_115240_zps6oztdqx0-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20161006_115240_zps6oztdqx0.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/20161006_121152_zpstsvk3ayd-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20161006_121152_zpstsvk3ayd.jpg.html)


Made some changes once i got it in metal
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/20161006_121152_zpstsvk3ayd-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20161006_121152_zpstsvk3ayd.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/20161006_123859_zps02cwhq1q-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20161006_123859_zps02cwhq1q.jpg.html)

Tacked in place
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/20161006_131218_zpsb2ea8rmc-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20161006_131218_zpsb2ea8rmc.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/20161006_131224_zpsftrkdjwu-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20161006_131224_zpsftrkdjwu.jpg.html)

LET THE CHAOS BEGIN
Took two days off of work so i could go to sachse rod shop about an hour away to get the steering goodies, then worked all day today getting the bracket fabbed and welded in. Once it was done, disassembly began....here is the sad sad state of my shop tonight


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/20161006_171747_zpszqkle5eb-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20161006_171747_zpszqkle5eb.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/20161006_171750_zpskmfspwj9-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20161006_171750_zpskmfspwj9.jpg.html)

And here is my subframe (almost) fitting in my fj. Off to get powdercoated tomorrow morning!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/20161006_185200_zpsijmpa9sn-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20161006_185200_zpsijmpa9sn.jpg.html)

[stinger67]

After you mentioned you had a Heidts set up I thought I would catch up on your build. Love all the fab work & the 69 lights, I added some too and opened up the middle. Easy for me, I am not doing my own fab work, you are much braver than I am on my 67. I am just a few steps behind you. We'll have to compare notes on how all the Heidts gear works out.

[absintheisfun]

Been a little while, but there is some progress to show for my time.

The sub came back from the powdercoater, and it looks amazing:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/11/20161017_182228_zpssgu9t5zi-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20161017_182228_zpssgu9t5zi.jpg.html)

Got it tucked back in and everything fits perfect
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/11/20161017_204907_zpss2mu0vjt-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20161017_204907_zpss2mu0vjt.jpg.html)

Smoothed out a few rough spots on the firewall (no pics-sorry)

And a BIG surprise came for me today
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/11/20161102_180356_zpsi2ib0q80-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20161102_180356_zpsi2ib0q80.jpg.html)

Only had enough time to unpack and inspect, but ill be fitting it next week. Ridetech takes their packing very seriously!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/11/20161102_180603_zpseipe6621-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20161102_180603_zpseipe6621.jpg.html)

Layer one
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/11/20161102_181253_zpsxeockp7r-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20161102_181253_zpsxeockp7r.jpg.html)

Layer two
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/11/20161102_180932_zpsctbapnzw-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20161102_180932_zpsctbapnzw.jpg.html)

And finally, the hardware
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/11/20161102_181118_zpsufex3i2u-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20161102_181118_zpsufex3i2u.jpg.html)

And all on display
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/11/20161102_183100_zps2yegzyn9-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20161102_183100_zps2yegzyn9.jpg.html)

Install pics coming soon...

[absintheisfun]

Been awhile...again, but have some progress to show off!!

Ive been working on the major body work, and it is finally done. I built a front spoiler and think it really came out great, and completely changes the appearance of the car. I have some progress pics of the last few months of work, and can finally say the major bodywork is done. Im planning on taking a week off in july and finishing the massaging and perfecting the exterior.

As it sits tonight
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/06/20170601_201722_zpsxqmtbpqc-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20170601_201722_zpsxqmtbpqc.jpg.html)

The progress of the spoiler
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/06/20170509_201937_zps8s499vgs-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20170509_201937_zps8s499vgs.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/06/20170509_202010_zps67rftoft-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20170509_202010_zps67rftoft.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/06/20170511_184306_zps9f55u7gn-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20170511_184306_zps9f55u7gn.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/06/20170511_184451_zpsmyvxjelp-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20170511_184451_zpsmyvxjelp.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/06/20170531_193956_zpsgku1haai-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20170531_193956_zpsgku1haai.jpg.html)

The interior right now
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/06/20170601_201649_zpsy4cbgy7e-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20170601_201649_zpsy4cbgy7e.jpg.html)

All the gaps for your viewing pleasure...
The last thing to finish is the passenger quarter to rocker weld and touch up the door crease by the fender.
Here they all are
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/06/20170601_201630_zpsujvb13zv-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20170601_201630_zpsujvb13zv.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/06/20170601_201518_zpsvlim7p2c-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20170601_201518_zpsvlim7p2c.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/06/20170601_201531_zpsx60ujsgv-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20170601_201531_zpsx60ujsgv.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/06/20170601_201547_zpsx03arxnc-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20170601_201547_zpsx03arxnc.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/06/20170601_201559_zps2jesbdcx-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20170601_201559_zps2jesbdcx.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/06/20170601_201500_zpsrojzidzz-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20170601_201500_zpsrojzidzz.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/06/20170601_201436_zpsuuc4kuon-1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/absintheisfun/media/Beast/20170601_201436_zpsuuc4kuon.jpg.html)

This is the most complete the car has been in over 20 years when i was driving it in highschool!!

[USAZR1]

Hang in there,you'll eventually get over the hump. Just realized that you are down the road from me.

[Bossed]

Just read and enjoyed the entire thread. I sure know what you mean about how life can get in the way sometimes. Congrats on staying the course and all the progress you've made, the car is looking great. Digging the front spoiler too !!

Bossed

[JohnJ@RideTech]

Looks like everything is coming along really well. Hope you enjoy the products you purchased from us, if you ever have any questions don't hesitate to call!

[absintheisfun]

Dirty work is done boys! (well, mostly)

After life again got in the way, I got back on it last year. Corona hurt the wallet in a few ways...less coming in and more going out, but quarantine gave me the time to finish blocking and actually put some paint on the car!
I must have gone through a dozen reds before I gave up on that color, then at least 2 dozen silvers before deciding on a nice Porsche satin silver metallic. I had grand plans of spraying vintage flat over it. Tried a few test runs, and realized that my skills were not there for a flat finish...
So, on my way home from work one day, I was sitting behind a challenger in this really great looking grey. No test panels to check it. I just knew that was the color.

Started around 5 in the morning with the red and finished the last coat of clear around 7pm...hell of a day!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/07/50106432952_2f6589d7b6_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jkJyQq)


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/07/50106198196_cf94e09c12_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jkHn3U)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/07/50106432827_83d2cddd1c_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jkJyNg)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/07/50105628018_a6f5fea5ad_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jkEryf)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/07/50106197376_853b5cc8ce_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jkHmNL)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/07/50105627023_4983d55d2f_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jkErg6)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/07/50106197581_d57a7d0c0f_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jkHmSi)

Still learning the best method for buffing out sanding scratches and there are a few rough spots i need to touch up, but all in all I think I did okay for my first paint job.

[dhutton]

Looks great.

Don

[tommycomfort]

Love that color. Looks great!

[jamminj007]

Awesome! Just read the entire thread. Excellent work. I love it.

[absintheisfun]

Got my grille done and installed. I'm thinking about smoking the turn signals a little, but they're in for now.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/08/50194179722_69fb88546c_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jtuhTL)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/08/50193922161_d463620862_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jtsYk4)

Going to be working on the rear spoiler and bumper this week, but here is how it sits as of now

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/08/50193923191_0aad74f543_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jtsYCP)

[TANKMASTERJ]

Who did the front chin spoiler I like it

[TANKMASTERJ]

Nevermind the dumb question I just read you built it.
Excellent it looks as nice as any high end shop built unit

[absintheisfun]

Nevermind the dumb question I just read you built it.
Excellent it looks as nice as any high end shop built unit

Aside from cutting and sanding fiberglass, it wasn't too bad. I started with a piece of thin fiberboard and set the front lower valence on it and came up with a design. Cut it out and decided it was good.


Got a large sheet of melamine (fiberglass resin resists bonding to it) and traced out the design
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/08/50105759408_68d06e4e5b_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jkF7BA)

Then I precut several layers (if memory serves...8 layers of chopped strand mat with 2 or 3 layers of cloth shuffled in) and placed them over the template. Set a second sheet of melamine on top with some weight and let it sit for a day.

Removed it, cut it out and checked fit (note the fiberglass dust! Wear a mask and apply baby powder to ANY exposed skin)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/08/50201898941_ff57a9f76a_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2juaRxK)

To get the lip, I hot glued paint sticks under it and covered exposed areas with painters tape (sorry, no pics) with about 3/8" protruding. Cut some more glass and overlaid it. To get it to lay on the bend, parchment paper was put over top of the glass and taped down. I worked about a foot at a time because parchment paper doesn't stick well to much of anything...tape included. Once it was all done, sanded again and got the shape I wanted

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/08/50105759343_08613efec1_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jkF7At)

After sanding, there may be pin holes where pockets of air got trapped (use a fiberglass roller to minimize these) but I just filled them with some glaze and sanded.

[dhutton]

Nice work!

[absintheisfun]

Thank ya'll for the kind words. A little more progress today....just waiting on mcmaster carr to get me my rods so I can finish the spoiler supports. Until I have the rods, I'm not certain on where I want to mount them, but I've taped down the lower mounts for a temporary visual.


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/08/50204117702_f217c903eb_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2june7f)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/08/50204117617_92e12b297a_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2june5M)


A guy I work with has a laser engraving company, and worked up my switch/gauge command center. The labels for the toggles are back etched so once the blacklighting is in they will glow blue. The gauges are temp place holders for now.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/08/50203846711_71c8e396ed_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jukQxZ)

[absintheisfun]

Mcmaster came in early! Now I have to decide the mount locations for the bottoms.

I'm leaning towards this

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/08/50207974756_0d6dde4707_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2juGZFb)


But I don't know how I feel about rods coming down in front of the lights, so then there is this

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/08/50207974776_b22eabcfda_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2juGZFw)

This just looks haphazardly placed. I don't want to go to the deck lid with a front mount though so bumper it is.

[TANKMASTERJ]

What about just the middle two

[dhutton]

I think it will look better if all the parts are black.

Don

[Motown 454]

Nice job the car looks great. I love the spoiler in the front.

[absintheisfun]

I think it will look better if all the parts are black.

Don

I was thinking about that also, but I like the fact that all exposed fasteners on the car are all natural metal (either stainless or aluminum). I am going to wait until i am sure on the mounting location before I decide on paint.

[absintheisfun]

on to the fun stuff! I'll take wiring over sanding any day!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/08/50233843523_e0b77b2411_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jwZzyp)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/08/50234499276_b1668a1a07_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jx3Wuu)


And when I need a distraction, I can start with some panel work

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/08/50234712742_42bd254e44_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jx52WW)


Here is what the doors looked like when I was in primer.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/08/50233847393_a0f5853011_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jwZAH8)

[jaybee]

I like the look, great combination of competition and highly finished.

[absintheisfun]

Got some updates
Wiring is sorted...sort of. Fabbed up a fiberglass cover to route the main body harness through the space between the front well and fender. Haven't finished/painted it yet, but it does exactly what I hoped for-hides the main harness.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/09/50377186701_a361b26825_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jKEfuv)


Also worked on overall harness cleanup. Its starting to look like a tidy engine bay! The valve covers are going to change, as well as the coil location, so I'm waiting to get that wiring straightened out until they are in there final location.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/09/50377358727_f457ef4c2f_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jKF8Ct)


And got the hvac hoses routed and crimped! Bought a tool that does a pretty impressive looking job, time will tell if it seals correctly.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/09/50377186881_0404fbdf84_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jKEfxB)

[icemanrd19]

Local car. Get this thing up and running and come cruise with us. 972-814-8824. Randy

[absintheisfun]

Local car. Get this thing up and running and come cruise with us. 972-814-8824. Randy

Trying to. In the simplest of terms, all that's left:
Exhaust
finish Wiring
Finish interior (cover seats in leather, finish panels, make center console)
Order driveshaft
Wheels/tires
Finishing details.
I'm sure I'm missing something, but it is sooooo close

And im so easily distracted when I'm in the shop

[absintheisfun]

Little more progress. Just about to order the pwm fuel control module from vaporworx, but until then, got the exhaust run to the mufflers so I can have a little decibel relief when running it

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/01/50819155652_86133f39b5_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kqHssQ)



https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/01/50819057996_ed52a1b8f7_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kqGXr7)


And today I got a really cool (i think) vent bezel finished. I think the factory side has vents are a little out of place on this build, but have struggled to find anything that I like...until I found these...

Audi A3 vents, fitted into a mold I made of the factory bezel.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/01/50818313708_72ffd760a9_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kqD9by)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/01/50818313348_244e8b3b99_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kqD95m)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/01/50819150017_d9932ec57a_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kqHqMF)

I still need to clean them up a bit and prime/paint, but I'm really happy with how they came out.
Also got the backlighting finished on the panel.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/01/50818373253_415a05da55_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kqDrTc)


Tomorrow, more wiring cleanup and other miscellaneous busy work!

[David Sloan]

Looking good!
Love the spoilers where did you get the rear spoiler hinges?
Thanks for sharing!

[absintheisfun]

Looking good!
Love the spoilers where did you get the rear spoiler hinges?
Thanks for sharing!

The hinges are ringbrothers, the supports i found at a good guy's a few years back from a company named torqstorm. I've never seen them on their website. I think I got lucky and was in the right place, right time and they had the bases and adjusters at the show. I had to get the rods and rod ends from McMaster.

Someone mentioned blacking the hardware out, and the more I think about it, the more I like the idea. Got an update coming...she's running!

[absintheisfun]

Its alive! But its limping a bit. I have a leaking injector for sure, maybe a couple. Have to wait until next week to order some more. Its been sitting in a box for a year after running for a few minutes to check for mechanical issues, so to be safe I'm replacing all of them.
This is my rail pressure about 5-10 minutes after shutdown. A 30 psi drop in 10 minutes! I doubt its the pump check valve, and there are no leaks, so...injectors.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/01/50868264147_4fb26f3c41_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kv49H2)

So far, the fitech setup is so simple, but it luls you into a false sense of security and overlook some things. I know the intakes are cheap Chinese made knockoffs, but damn...how do you overlook this in the manufacturing process?? Those little Knicks are from the head bolts that protrude, creating the most insane vacuum leak! I covered everything in tape and grinded off some material to make a recess.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/01/50868264167_a8d7dbf8d8_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kv49Hn)

And these vacuum accessory ports. The 1/4 npt is the big one, but the smaller are some weird fine thread npt. I couldn't find any plugs so I had to put rubber caps over the supplied fittings-i have no vacuum accessories.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/01/50867446038_eebfadea29_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kuYXvG)

Had a loud as hell intake backfire on the third or so start up and it took me two hours to build back up the balls to start it again. Going to wait on the new injectors before running it again.

Set up the kill switch as a push/pull through one of the bumper mounting bolts, but it doesn't work! With the engine running, the switch sticks and the car won't shut off, but if I turn off the car with the key, it won't restart until I reset the switch to "on." Guess that goes on the "need to buy a better one list."

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/01/50868264407_5a307056a1_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kv49Mv)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/01/50867446288_b09fdad37b_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kuYXA1)

[blitzer454]

Set up the kill switch as a push/pull through one of the bumper mounting bolts, but it doesn't work! With the engine running, the switch sticks and the car won't shut off, but if I turn off the car with the key, it won't restart until I reset the switch to "on." Guess that goes on the "need to buy a better one list."

That looks like you installed a 2 pole battery disconnect switch which is actually working the way it should as the alternator will keep the engine running even after the battery is disconnected. If what you really wanted was an engine cut-off switch then you need to get a 4 pole cut-off switch that disconnects the battery and alternator at the same time.

[absintheisfun]

That looks like you installed a 2 pole battery disconnect switch which is actually working the way it should as the alternator will keep the engine running even after the battery is disconnected. If what you really wanted was an engine cut-off switch then you need to get a 4 pole cut-off switch that disconnects the battery and alternator at the same time.

After I posted this, I did some research and found out I went the wrong direction. I'm looking into another switch, but it seems I'm going to have to run the alternator charge wire to the back which is what I was hoping to avoid.

Also, thanks for the hose recommendation. It didn't work for me, but I got a guy who was willing to wonder the stock room until he found one that would.

[David Sloan]

The hinges are ringbrothers, the supports i found at a good guy's a few years back from a company named torqstorm. I've never seen them on their website. I think I got lucky and was in the right place, right time and they had the bases and adjusters at the show. I had to get the rods and rod ends from McMaster.

Someone mentioned blacking the hardware out, and the more I think about it, the more I like the idea. Got an update coming...she's running!

Thank you sir!
Congrats on the first run! always a good feeling!

[blitzer454]

After I posted this, I did some research and found out I went the wrong direction. I'm looking into another switch, but it seems I'm going to have to run the alternator charge wire to the back which is what I was hoping to avoid.

Another option is to add an alternator shutdown relay (https://www.moroso.com/catalog/product/view/id/8085/s/alternator-shutdown-relay-kit74107/category/3114/) wired to your existing switch. This way you don't have to run large gauge wires back and forth to the trunk.

Sorry to hear that the hose didn't work out it was a nearly a perfect fit for my setup.

[chunger]

I'm curious how you did the backlighting on the switch panel? I guess it's cut out with light behind - but how?

[absintheisfun]

I'm curious how you did the backlighting on the switch panel? I guess it's cut out with light behind - but how?

I have a friend who has a laser engraving company. He has a way to "etch" this abs material. Its some form of clear plastic/abs/acrylic material with a black film on one side. The black film is to the rear, and he back engraved the writing and I have a simple led backlight.

It makes it completely smooth on the outside, but able to backlight designs.

[LUV2XLR8]

I have the same intake --- the larger vacuum fitting is 1/4" NPT and the (3) smaller fittings are 1/8" NPT --- Part number I used for the smaller fittings are from Vibrant Performance part#11230 or Summit part number VPE-11230 which is a 1/8" to 1/4 barb 90* fitting. If you try to use a straight 1/8" NPT barb fitting, you will have to put your hoses on first then set the intake.

[absintheisfun]

I have the same intake --- the larger vacuum fitting is 1/4" NPT and the (3) smaller fittings are 1/8" NPT --- Part number I used for the smaller fittings are from Vibrant Performance part#11230 or Summit part number VPE-11230 which is a 1/8" to 1/4 barb 90* fitting. If you try to use a straight 1/8" NPT barb fitting, you will have to put your hoses on first then set the intake.

I actually want to plug them. I have manual brakes and a returnless pwm regulated fuel supply, so I have no real need for vacuum hookups. The 1/8npt plugs i got don't fit for some reason. If something changes, I can remove the plugs.

Out of curiosity, what fitting did you use on the throttle body? The straight fitting puts it right in the path of the throttle cable, but a 90 would put a kink in the hose to the valve covers. I haven't been able to find any 45 degree 1/4 npt fittings, but I haven't looked all that hard yet.

[LUV2XLR8]

I plumbed my valve covers into the vacuum ports under the intake. I'm running the 102MM TB from FiTech and the Detroit speed vapor canister. I used a 90* 1/4 NPT to -6an swivel to route it in front of the throttle linkage to canister and then the canister to the valley cover. I tried the 45* route, just didn't like the way it looked. Part numbers are Vibrant Performance#26901 and Detroit Speed Can #060110. -6AN hose will fit over both valve cover ports and valley cover; I like the look AN hose over regular rubber. Hope that helps,

[absintheisfun]

Not a bad idea. I now wonder if I might just block the throttle body port and rout the valve covers underneath the intake to clean everything up...things to ponder.

[absintheisfun]

Been a rough 10 days in Texas, so little has been done. I was able to get the shop to about 50 last Saturday and I was able to get the valve covers on but that was about all I could manage. Sunday I tried, but it was 28 in the shop and after two hours of my heater it only got to 40. We are not built for this weather! I went out just to see what it was like Wednesday when it was -2 outside and the shop was at 8. 8 freaking degrees!

We got off real lucky with only some minor damage from the great Texas freeze. It was impossible to go to work half the week with the roads, and with the blackouts it impossible to do work when I did go in. My wife and I sat around and did puzzles and watched TV when we could. And then today 70 and sunny. . . just right for freeze repairs!

So anyway, the engine bay is done i think. Put an alternator relay in and installed and valve covers. I think I'm going to paint them the same red as the stripe, but that can wait.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/02/50968259761_38e11eabb2_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kDTDVk)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/02/50967556868_cbffa4b697_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kDQ3Yu)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/02/50967556858_131b427a2d_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kDQ3Yj)

The relay is tucked out of sight, and I fabed up a throttle cable bracket that is a little better hidden than the ugly ones between the throttle body and intake. Its simple, but effective and nestles nicely between the fuel rail and the intake.

[Motown 454]

I'm glad you escaped the freeze with only a little damage, I hope it gets fixed quickly. The engine bay looks great nice and neat.

[David Sloan]

Looking good !
we been praying for Texas. We have family in Dallas Fort Worth.

[Vimes]

Permanent fuel pressure gauge? I like it.

[absintheisfun]

Permanent fuel pressure gauge? I like it.
Originally there just to verify and adjust the vaporworx. It tucks away nicely though so it may stay, or at the very least stay until the car is finished.

[absintheisfun]

As spring and summer have come, so have the seasonal duties and tasks that take me away from the shop, but progress has been made and I'm here to show it off!

I tried the speed tech tunnel but wasn't happy with it so I made my own. I must have forgotten to take pictures, but here is the Trans crossmember I made since there wasn't an option out there that I liked. This got me to 2.5 degrees down with the Trans, and about 3/4inch of clearance between the header collector and the Floorplan.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/07/51320604289_2d48f0b14b_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mc2vEZ)


Got the oil cooler installed with almost no clearance, but enough (about 1/8" between the bottom of the pipe fitting and the body).
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/07/51319145827_fe81fdbd8c_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mbU386)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/07/51319146142_dffbe423fb_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mbU3dw)

Looking down on it
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/07/51319146107_94713f344d_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mbU3cV)

Next on the to-do was the center console. I made 4 in differing shapes, but they all had their problems-to bulky, too tall, to hard to wrap in leather, etc etc. This was a challenge to wrap, but doable. I don't have any pics of the build because I was never sure how to do it, so lots of learning and redoing. I am pleased with the finished product though! Just have to paint the top and it is complete.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/07/51320885850_1548563ea9_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mc3Xnu)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/07/51320603994_af1c0ba6f0_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mc2vzU)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/07/51320087138_6577dd36c2_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mbYRWA)

And lastly, I found my steering wheel. It's becoming more car-like every time I go out there!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/07/51320885495_56359fe12f_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mc3Xgn)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/07/51320086838_cd097e1b5c_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mbYRRq)


I installed an NRG quick release, and man do I have to compliment this product! It fits so well with the ididit, and it feels absolutely solid when the wheel is on.

If all goes to plan, the next update will have the wiring completed, radio and gauges in, and maybe have the glass completed. I have to paint so many little pieces as well. The a/c vent bezels, the top of the console, repaint the rear bumper, glass trim, and other things, but my list is in the shop. I want to paint that before fall so the Texas heat works for me, baking the paint!

[absintheisfun]

Spent some time in the shop the last few weeks doing housekeeping. Cleaned up AND FINISHED the wiring! Now it's just left to wiring the accessories-A/C, windows, a few switches and the center gauges. Got the dakota digital hooked up and set up. Have to paint the bezel and a few other odds and ends. Cleaned off the dust and took some glamor shots, felt like sharing.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/08/51412584315_5f99aa6efc_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mk9W8v)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/08/51412358959_a901f8a7a9_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mk8M94)
Don't mind the bare metal spot on the bumper. It needed some post-paint adjustments. Set to be replaced soon!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/08/51412584275_bc11b0df4c_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mk9W7P)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/08/51411864313_10c53ea325_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mk6f6F)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/08/51411864288_4f51588a4c_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mk6f6f)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/08/51410855812_3b3c1c00eb_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mk15iJ)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/08/51410855802_79e43dcea1_k-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mk15iy)


Here is the dakota digital startup and test. Not sure how to direct link it
https://m.imgur.com/gallery/LcSY26Q

[Motown 454]

Looking good! I like the steering wheel.

[jaybee]

I like that style of trans crossmember. It's simple yet gives so much room under the car for all the stuff that has to share space right around the transmission tailshaft.

[absintheisfun]

It's been a couple of years, so it's time for an update...

Been busy working on projects around the house, so the Camaro got backburnered (again!). Finally found some time, then the unforgiving heat kicked in-almost every day in July and August was over 100 and it seems like most were near 110!

Wheels arrived and put on
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2023/09/20230910084300-1.jpg (https://postimg.cc/mzjmd2cJ)

I changed out the rear brakes because I wanted the electric park brake from wilwood. Gotta admit, it's slick as s#it!! And the switch fits in the lighter hole as if it was made for it!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2023/09/20230311152656-1.jpg (https://postimg.cc/87yPVL2z)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2023/09/20230311162258-1.jpg (https://postimg.cc/SXB4ydDk)

Other than my ECM and the main HDX unit, all of my modules are easily serviceable under the back portion of the center console.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2023/09/20230910083825-1.jpg (https://postimg.cc/zL1p8RK4)

Interior has been worked on a bit. I have an upholsterer set to cover the seats, armrests and dash pad soon.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2023/09/20230910084018-1.jpg (https://postimg.cc/bd66krf2)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2023/09/20230910084132-1.jpg (https://postimg.cc/ZCCwcmJs)

While the seats are being done I'm going to put in the side windows. . .and then. . .scary to say, but. . .it's pretty much done! It's been a long road, but absolutely worth it. I pulled it out of the shop today to do some light driving and got it to about 25mph. It was equal awesome and terrifying!

Anyway, here are some glamor shots in the rising sun!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2023/09/20230910084527-1.jpg (https://postimg.cc/t1hSxz9X)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2023/09/20230910083347-1.jpg (https://postimg.cc/y3WyvhC3)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2023/09/20230910083519-1.jpg (https://postimg.cc/5YsmB7TM)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2023/09/20230910083532-1.jpg (https://postimg.cc/WFNnJL9n)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2023/09/20230910083644-1.jpg (https://postimg.cc/yDRnMTgF)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2023/09/20230910083714-1.jpg (https://postimg.cc/kVFs4XyG)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2023/09/20230910083745-1.jpg (https://postimg.cc/tYw2vcTq)

Sorry for the thumbnails, I'm still trying to find a good hosting site since photobucket got stupid.

[70JUNk]

Crazy build with equally crazy breaks. such amazing work!! Glad to see it in the light again.

[Gmc427]

nice ,car on 18s?

[absintheisfun]

Crazy build with equally crazy breaks. such amazing work!! Glad to see it in the light again.

Thank you! After all the time seeing it in the shop for so long, sunlight was an unbelievable surprise! There are a couple of flaws in the paint that I know by heart in the light of the shop, but they become invisible in the sun.

[absintheisfun]

nice ,car on 18s?

Yes sir! 9" front, 11.5 rear