Innovator - 67 Nova by the Roadster Shop

[ROADSTER SHOP]

Introducing project Innovator 1967 Nova built by the Roadster Shop. Hope you enjoy following along on this extensive build.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/InnovatorLogoConverted-1.jpg

Here is the car as it arrived.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/1-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/2-1.jpg

Floors removed and put on a rotisserie for media blasting.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/3-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/4-1.jpg

[HotRod47]

That car is going to need an awful lot of work for sure.....

[ROADSTER SHOP]

Back from media blasting... or what was left of it anyways! The lack of solid metal left on the car eventually gave way to letting the ideas flow on what would eventually be done to the body. Since almost everything had to be re-made, we might as well add our own style to it. More on that to come:unibrow:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/5-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/6-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/7-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/8-1.jpg

[ROADSTER SHOP]

We set out to build a car that would perform as good as it looks, and look as good as it performs. The foundation for the car is one of our Fast Track chassis systems. Here are a few pics of the chassis on a frame table for the build to begin

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/9-1.jpg

We built a custom 3-Link on this car and made custom main rails that allowed for a side exhaust.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/17-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/16-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/15-1.jpg

[ROADSTER SHOP]

Custom lower coilover/3-link brackets

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/10-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/11-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/12-2.jpg

[rustomatic]

If I lived anywhere near your shop, I'd be paying for you to let me sweep your floors two nights a week. The chassis is not only pretty, but it looks burly as hell. Do you guys make all your own suspension components, including those massive control arms in front?

I'll very much look forward to more on this car, even if Chevy did take three years to catch up to the Falcon's styling...


We set out to build a car that would perform as good as it looks, and look as good as it performs. The foundation for the car is one of our Fast Track chassis systems. Here are a few pics of the chassis on a frame table for the build to begin

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/9-1.jpg

We built a custom 3-Link on this car and made custom main rails that allowed for a side exhaust.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/17-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/16-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/15-1.jpg

[CruizinKev]

If I lived anywhere near your shop, I'd be paying for you to let me sweep your floors two nights a week. The chassis is not only pretty, but it looks burly as hell.
x2 :twothumbs wow that frame looks killer!! :drool: :drool: :drool:

[ROADSTER SHOP]

Thanks guys. Unfortunately that position of floor sweeper has been filled. I'll keep your resume on file though:lmao:

[ROADSTER SHOP]

Here are a few more chassis and exhaust pics.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/13-1.jpg

We did an oval tube for the H-Pipe that was recessed up into the crossmember to maintain ground clearance
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/14-1.jpg

Header fabrication
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/18-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/19-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/22-1.jpg

[ROADSTER SHOP]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/21-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/20-1.jpg

[ROADSTER SHOP]

A few pics of the body on the chassis sitting at ride height.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/23-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/24-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/25-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/26-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/27-1.jpg

[Scarelane]

Whoa! AWESOME! Looks great! Especially from where you started. High quality, first class for sure!

[HectorM52]

How much did you guys give for that car? I'm searching for a '66 or '67 as well and wondering what the big-boys are willing to give for something that I too would buy.

[CruizinKev]

omg wow

[THE TECH]

Work of art!!

[Ratty 46]

Nice project. If I can ask ... why the three link & not something a bit more tunable?? Not that anythings wrong with the three link ... just asking.

Ratty 46

[craigs73]

you guys have absoutly the nicest shop i think i have ever seen...... you guys do great work would be sweet to work there lots to learn from you guy and the nova looks great i like the pic from the rear of the car with the wheels on it

[ROADSTER SHOP]

How much did you guys give for that car? I'm searching for a '66 or '67 as well and wondering what the big-boys are willing to give for something that I too would buy.

I think it was $7,000 - $8,000. If it were going to be a different type of project I would definitely pay more for a solid car. Since this build was going to have major sheet metal fab done, it wasn't too big of an issue.

[ROADSTER SHOP]

Nice project. If I can ask ... why the three link & not something a bit more tunable?? Not that anythings wrong with the three link ... just asking.

Ratty 46

We went with the three link because of all of it's advantages on track. The anti squat and instant center are adjustable.

[ROADSTER SHOP]

Thanks to everyone else! :cheers:

[ROADSTER SHOP]

Some more progress on the floors of the car

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/34-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/33-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/30-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/31-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/32-1.jpg

[John Wright]

You have a great "tin man".....looks good!

[LeighP]

Thats awesome!
Love your work!

[wellis77]

Those tubs are amazing!

[Smock67]

Wow thats the nicest floor ever, please tell me your just going to clear over it so it can be seen by all.

[coolwelder62]

Sheet metal work is awesome.This will be an amazing car when it is finished.

[rjsjea]

I'm still trying to get over the fact your going to cover that with carpet and seats........nice looking metal work

[ROADSTER SHOP]

Thanks guys, the floor did turn out pretty cool. I hate to say it, but we actually talked about keeping the floor fairly simple on this build in order to allocate more of the budget towards the things that would be seen. As you can see from the pics, fairly simple didn't exactly happen.

[ROADSTER SHOP]

In order to get the look and stance that we were after, we altered the wheel base and moved the rear wheels back 1.5". (This was done from the start in the chassis design.) Here are the wheel houses fabbed to clear the 20x12's the Innovator will be running out back.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/35-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/36-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/37-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/38-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/39-1.jpg

[RS_Customs]

Very nice work! Keep the pics coming please lol


Robert

[Tig]

Wow, that looks amazing. You guys do some great looking fab work and are some great welders.
Like said, keep the pics coming. Do you have any pics of the watts link from the rear?
Thanks

[FRENCHBLUE72]

That nova is really coming out good .. whats up with the 67-72 chevy truck in the background???

[Ripped]

Very nice work. I love the preview of the stance.

I was wondering about the floor pans. Do you have to add support under the pans, or are they stiff enough as shown in the photos?

[SRD art]

Beautiful fabrication! I love everything so far, very tasteful design and execution. Can I come work for you when I graduate from school? ;)

[CruizinKev]

OMG that looks amazing!!!

[ROADSTER SHOP]

Very nice work! Keep the pics coming please lol
Robert

Thanks Robert, I'll have plenty more pics following along!


Wow, that looks amazing. You guys do some great looking fab work and are some great welders.
Like said, keep the pics coming. Do you have any pics of the watts link from the rear?
Thanks

Thanks, let me look and see what I can find.



That nova is really coming out good .. whats up with the 67-72 chevy truck in the background???

Thanks. The Truck is a 70 short bed that we put one of our chassis under. There are a few pics on our web site in the Current Builds section of our Gallery. It was built with the body "as is" and driven last summer for testing. It has since been properly built, and is now days away from paint. We hope to get it back on the road later this summer.


Very nice work. I love the preview of the stance.
I was wondering about the floor pans. Do you have to add support under the pans, or are they stiff enough as shown in the photos?

The floor pans were later tied into the top of the frame rail and center crossmember for added strength. We also built seat braces to give more strength to the seat mounting area.



Beautiful fabrication! I love everything so far, very tasteful design and execution. Can I come work for you when I graduate from school? ;)
Thanks, we may be able to work something out!


OMG that looks amazing!!!

Thanks Kevin

[ROADSTER SHOP]

On to the body of the car. One of the things that we didn't like about the Nova body style was the main body line running through the center of the car. So, we eliminated it and decided on something that we felt fit the theme of the car better. The new look would have a sharp body line trailing off of each wheel opening. It was not an easy undertaking, but made a huge difference in the end. In order to create the new body lines we cut the lower 2/3rds of the fender, door, and quarter panel off and scratch built new sections.

The original section of the door skin next to the new version
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/57-1.jpg

Door with new lower skin
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/56-1.jpg

Door installed on the car with the stock fender and a stock new quarter panel.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/58-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/59-1.jpg

[ROADSTER SHOP]

The quarters were next. We first installed a new quarter panel ince the original was long gone. Then we laid out the new body line, wheel opening, and re-shaped the lower section of the quarter behind the wheel.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/60-1.jpg

The new shape starting to take form
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/61-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/63-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/64-1.jpg

The lower section of the stock quarter removed and ready for the new panel to be installed.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/65-1.jpg

New panel laying next to the stock panel
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/66-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/67-1.jpg

New panel getting final aligned and ready to be welded in place.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/68-1.jpg

[ROADSTER SHOP]

Creating the new wheel openings and body lines on the fenders and doors was next.
(Sorry for the poor quality pics on these)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/46-2.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/45-2.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/54-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/55-1.jpg

Once the fender line was in place the door skins were then address to carry the line into that panel.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/50-2.jpg

[ROADSTER SHOP]

And the completed body line modifications.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/69-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/72-1.jpg

Also a sneak peak at what we have in store for the trunk and rocker panels.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/70-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/71-1.jpg

[CruizinKev]

uhm... WOW!!!!!! :jawdrop:

[ROADSTER SHOP]

I had gotten ahead of myself yesterday and left out several pics of earlier portions of the build.

Here are a few shots of the 454 LSX engine and firewall sheet metal work that has been done.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/firewall1-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/firewall2-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/firewall3-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/firewall4-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/firewall5-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/firewall6-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/firewall7-1.jpg

[ROADSTER SHOP]

Another item on the cut list was the roof line of the car. Stock 66/67 Nova's tend to look like the roof is running uphill from back to front. A subtle 3/4" chop in the front along with leaning the A pillars, and pie cutting the sail panels took care of that and gave it a subtle change.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/chop4-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/chop3-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/chop5-1.jpg

Sitting next to a stock Nova you can make out the difference in the roof line. I have better pictures some where that I will dig up showing this better.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/Chop6-1.jpg

The drip rails were also eliminated and added in a body line in their place so it wasn't a totally smoothed look.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/drip1-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/chop2-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/Chop1-1.jpg

[dontlifttoshift]

3/4" out of the a pillars and the '34 style drip rails coolest parts of the car that no one will ever notice....awesome.

[ROADSTER SHOP]

Thanks Donny, we have quite a few more in store as well.

[ROADSTER SHOP]

Fab work on the rear bumper:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/72-1.jpg

New, re-shaped end cap mocked up.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/73-1.jpg

Completed bumper corner and rear quarter lower molding
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/78-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/74-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/75-1.jpg

Completed bumper and start of the rear belly pan and rear diffuser
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/76-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/77-1.jpg

[Norwood]

Over-the-top unique and great lines!

[MrQuick]

Great work as usual. Love the new body lines.

I gotta ask. With the narrowed track width, did you have to make drastic changes to maintain the geometry? Different arms or mounting points?

[John Wright]

Wow.....great work. All sorts of subtle changes from GM's original design.....all improvements.

[DriverzInc]

Sweet.

[craigs73]

wow great work!! looks killer

[ROADSTER SHOP]

Here is the fab work on the rocker moldings and lower door accent moldings.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/95-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/97-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/96-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/98-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/99-1.jpg

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

[ROADSTER SHOP]

Once the rocker was in place we went back and re-shapped the rear portion to accommodate the side exhaust.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/exhaust1-1.jpg

We fabbed a double walled stainless sheet metal exhaust tip to flow with the cars lines.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/exhaust2-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/exhaust3-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/exhaust4-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/exhaust5-1.jpg

[ROADSTER SHOP]

Here is the aluminum trim piece we made for the bottom of the door. There is a reveal line tipped into the piece for added dimension.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/102-1.jpg

Innovator name plate was CNC'd and then welded into the front of the lower door molding.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/1041-1.jpg

Door molding completed (Prior to Innovator logo install)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/101-1.jpg

[John Wright]

You guys are showing off.......great stuff, I'm envious of the talent and workmanship displayed in this thread.

[wvnova]

wow that looks really awesome guys.love the body changes just very subtle tweaks everywhere nothing over the top as far as changes ,the craftmanship is over the top.

[Cakeaholic]

Ridiculous, can't wait to see it finished.

[Chevrolaine]

Incredible! Must be nice to play "If I were a GM designer" every day! Love the mods!

[MrQuick]

fine...ignore me then try to distract me with pictu......ohhh i like the exhaust outlets.

[FRENCHBLUE72]

You guys have some serious skills keep up the good work..

[LeighP]

I agree...some serious skills on show there....love the redesign on the car.

[BADDRIDE II]

I suspect MAGIC! Super nice work guys.

On another note..........is that AC bracket yours or? I am looking for lower passenger tight hugging one like you have pictured?

[Dons67]

Wow - I hope I get to see this in person some day!

[ROADSTER SHOP]

Thanks all!

Baddride - it is a Billet Specialties Tru-Trac serpentine system.

Mr. Quick - Sorry i missed your first question. Going to the narrower track width does not change much. We use a different rack with a different mount positioning. The roll center slightly changes, but everything else stays constant.

[ROADSTER SHOP]

Fab work on the front bumper and lower splitter.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/80-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/84-1.jpg

Fabbed new bumper ends to follow the shape of the headlights, and tuck tight to the fenders.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/85-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/88-1.jpg

Underside of the front splitter
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/87-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/86-1.jpg

[ROADSTER SHOP]

Further progress on the lower splitter.

Fabbed the corner pieces to match the shape of the bumper.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/90-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/91-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/92-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/93-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/94-1.jpg

[Motown 454]

It looks great, I can't wait to see more.

[John Wright]

fine...ignore me then try to distract me with pictu......ohhh i like the exhaust outlets.

LOL @ Vince

[ROADSTER SHOP]

Here is a little more work on the rear of the car. Fabbed a rear lip spoiler and wrapped the lower quarter extensions into the bottom of the bumper. Also a preview of the custom billet tail lights.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/107-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/106-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/108-1.jpg

Added small accent mounts to the back side of the rear spoiler

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/105-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/109-1.jpg

[HectorM52]

You guys are masters of metalwork. I'm SO jealous. My dream Nova looks very similar to this project.

However, I've got a couple of opinions...and please don't take these the wrong way. Just wanting to help while I sit here in the peanut gallery.

Something about the front spoiler inlets isn't right. I believe it's the vertical / square "outside" edges of the openings. I think I can see that you guys were trying to "follow" the sides of the spoiler in that it is straight up and down...but it just doesn't look right. It needs some sort of angle - not sure which way I would lean it, but it needs something. It's this picture below where I really see it.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/92-1.jpg


Next on my list is the insets on the deck lid. Clearly there's a theme with all these vents and inlets...and obviously they're carrying over here. But they almost look like the "shinoda" body kits that guys put on their Civics. I can't explain it. Just with all that SWEET custom fab work back there, those little insets just don't do it for me.

Lastly, those are some freakin sweet billet tail lights. But they're too square on the bottom. Damn, I'm a picky S.O.B.

Okay, so I just slipped on my flame suit. Hate that I have to put this disclaimer, but, again, I'm not here to criticize or poke - just wanting to give some [hopefully] constructive criticism and maybe something to think about. Hell, a fresh set of eyes looking at the same thing we look at day-in and day-out sometimes brings out those things that we overlook just due to seeing it on a daily basis.


Again, this car is sweet as hell and truly is a work of art. I hope my future Nova project is one tenth as bada$$ as this one. Keep up the updates, I'm loving them.

[1968CamaroSS_Sam]

Amazing body work. Great job.

[ROADSTER SHOP]

Hector, the lower portion of the spoiler was not completed in this picture and has since been changed to flow with the lines of the car better. I don't know what to tell you on the rear body panel... we like it and so does the customer. Can't please everyone. The tail lights have to be square at the bottom in order to line up with the bumper and the quarter pane.

[ROADSTER SHOP]

Fab work on the hood:

We really liked the way the flat hood looks on these cars and wanted to keep that feel, but add some detail to it.

We again removed the body line from the center of the hood to give it a cleaner look than stock. We fabbed 2 air boxes that fit in the corner of the hood and remain flat when the hood is opened.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/121-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/117-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/114-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/115-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/116-1.jpg

[ROADSTER SHOP]

Since the air boxes are staying stationary, we needed to then fab new hood hinges since the air boxes were int he stock hood hinge location.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/110-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/111-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/112-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/113-1.jpg

[ROADSTER SHOP]

A few shots of the air boxes in place

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/118-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/120-1.jpg

Re-design on the hood inner structure to add more strength and work with the new configuration.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/119-1.jpg

[Blown73]

Nice work! Its pretty amazing what you can do with sheet metal. I am lucky if I keep it straight, let alone modify it! Beautiful car, can't wait to see the rest of it come together!

[Tony_SS]

I'm just blown away - such amazing design and fabrication right there. Wow.

[Hotwhilz]

Wow that is really good looking high quality metal body work!!

[SRD art]

Fantastic design going on. The lower rocker mods tie in perfectly to the new character lines above the wheel openings and the indents in the lower doors, pulls all of the car's profile lines in together. From the photos with that main body line gone it almost looks like the rear 1/4s buldge out a bit accentuating the width of the rolling stock. Wheel opening lines make it look like it's going 160 even though it's sitting still, great play on the 69 Camaro or early 30s streamlined design cues, whichever was your inspiration. The outer lines in the splitter follow the vertical lines in the bumper opening, but if you made changes looking forward to seeing what you came up with. Love the smoothed bumper ends.

Trick idea for the air boxes! Is this a twin turbo car with the boxes as intakes?

[HectorM52]

Hector, the lower portion of the spoiler was not completed in this picture and has since been changed to flow with the lines of the car better.
Very cool - I can't wait to see what you've done with it.



I don't know what to tell you on the rear body panel... we like it and so does the customer. Can't please everyone.
Ha! That's a very true statement! Hopefully my comments didn't hurt any feelings!



The tail lights have to be square at the bottom in order to line up with the bumper and the quarter pane.
I think maybe it's the lower corners that don't follow the contour of that corner of the bumper as it curves toward the front that are throwing me off. Again, something to think about IF you could maybe touch them up a bit. Being billet, I don't know that it will allow any adjustment.



Okay, I'm done...but one last comment to say that the vents are just amazingly cool!! Keep 'em coming!!

[Mr.VENGEANCE]

wow.. this give the Novanutcase a run for his money.. wherever that car is now..

maybe bested it already..

[ROADSTER SHOP]

Hector, no hurt feelings. I think that we have everything just where we want it, but thanks for the input. :)

SRD, thanks for the responses. Glad you can appreciate everything that has gone into the car so far! There is quite a bit more to come. I didn't have any good pics of the lower splitter/bumper change in metal. We mocked it up several different ways before finalizing the design. Stay tuned for more pics.

Everyone else, thanks for following along and the great comments!

[ROADSTER SHOP]

Here is some of the interior sheet metal work:

Started by laying out a dash design in foam to give us a guide to contour the sheet metal to.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/1-3.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/2-2.jpg

Then began forming the sheet metal and checking the fit against the foam buck.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/3-2.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/4-2.jpg

[ROADSTER SHOP]

Top of the dash is getting close and beginning to lay out the inset molding that will run through the center of the dash.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/5-2.jpg

The inset molding is roughed in and proceeding on the lower portion of the dash
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/6-2.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/7-2.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/8-2.jpg

[ROADSTER SHOP]

Laying out the eyebrows over the sides of the dash.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/9-2.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/10-2.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/11-3.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/12-4.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/13-3.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/14-3.jpg

[ROADSTER SHOP]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/15-3.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/16-2.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/17-3.jpg

Eyebrows completed on the dash and further progress on the lower portion that will house the stereo unit. A/C vent holes also installed. The outside A/C vents were moved later on in the build in favor of a cleaner look.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/18-2.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/19-2.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/20-2.jpg

[John Wright]

wow you guys can shape metal like an artist with clay...good job making it look so easy.

[SRD art]

"SRD, thanks for the responses. Glad you can appreciate everything that has gone into the car so far!"

Thanks, after being through car design school and now in a street rod program I have a much better feel for the effort that goes into something like that. Even still, watching your build come together is like attending another class! Keep it coming!!

Once again, great design work on the dash. What sort of foam did you use? That's a great idea for mocking things up...

[ROADSTER SHOP]

Inset aluminum trim molding completed for the center of dash along with engine start button installed. A/C vents relocated to the lower portion of the dash and the center console starting to take shape

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/21-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/22-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/23-1.jpg

More progress on the aluminum center console and e-brake.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/25-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/26-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/27-1.jpg

[ROADSTER SHOP]

ear cap portion around the e-brake.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/28-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/29-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/30-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/31-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/32-1.jpg

[John Wright]

Wow...looking more like a finshed car everyday...you guys are moving along on this. It would take me a week to make one little part and it wouldn't look anywhere as nice as your stuff does. Love to see a video of one of those sheet metal pieces being formed into interior parts.

[Tony_SS]

Someone deserves a raise! Incredible skill.

[Ron.in.SoCal]

Wow...looking more like a finshed car everyday...you guys are moving along on this. It would take me a week to make one little part and it wouldn't look anywhere as nice as your stuff does. Love to see a video of one of those sheet metal pieces being formed into interior parts.

I have a sneaky suspicion this car is already done - or very close. I wonder if it'll be @ Colombus?

[theRG]

In PHR the car looked further along than in these pictures and considering magazine lead times I would say it is much farther along.

[ROADSTER SHOP]

The start of the inner fenders and engine bay details:

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

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/2-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/3-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/4-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/5-1.jpg

[craigs73]

sweet any pics with the hood down im interested in the vents you have up there that pertrude into the hood area

[elitecustombody]

Execution and design is just amazing.Wiping the drool off.

[bdahlg68]

How so clean with all the welding and grinding / smoothing??? Really impressive!

[ROADSTER SHOP]

sweet any pics with the hood down im interested in the vents you have up there that pertrude into the hood area
Thanks Craig. I will post some hood pics shortly. The vents sit flush with the top of the hood.


Execution and design is just amazing.Wiping the drool off.
Thank you!


How so clean with all the welding and grinding / smoothing??? Really impressive!
Thanks, we have some very skilled sheet metal metal guys

[ROADSTER SHOP]

Inner fenders further along and engine detail starting to take shape:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/7-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/8-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/9-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/10-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/11-1.jpg

[Motown 454]

Amazing work.

[TheKingOTW]

Very Cool Looking Build.

[ROADSTER SHOP]

Continuing fab work on the engine detail:

Beginning to fab the recessed center portion.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/12-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/13-1.jpg

Pocket detail added to front.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/14-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/15-1.jpg

Start of the upper radiator close out panel. Also fabbed a template for the grille.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/16-1.jpg

[sr73bu]

The "mona lisa" of Novas...haha... Incredible work!

-Sean

[ROADSTER SHOP]

Upper radiator close out panel completed and transitioned into the inner fenders. We went back and put a seam in the the inner fender before it meets the radiator close out panel to add more detail to it. Also have the pocket installed for the BMW hood latch.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/17-1.jpg

Start of the trim piece around where the engine metal work meets the close out panel.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/18-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/19-1.jpg

We then went back and put another seam in the forward panels coming off the intake.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/21-2.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/22-2.jpg

Everything metal finished.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/23-2.jpg

[ROADSTER SHOP]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/24-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/25-2.jpg

Start of valve cover design. Also have the center intake cover installed. We didn't like the look of the stock GM intake with with the rest of the metal work around it, so we fabbed a cover out of aluminum that had a similar look only with a more uniform rib design.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/26-2.jpg

Inner fenders were removed and perforated metal inserts were added to help get heat out of the engine compartment.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/27-2.jpg

[ROADSTER SHOP]

A few completed pics of the engine bay in bare metal. I'm still blown away by how cool this turned out.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/33-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/34-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/35-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/38-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/37-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/36-1.jpg

[dmc69]

Wow!!!!!!

[66SuperSport]

Just got back from the Roadster Shop. Anyone that is going to Columbus will be completely blown away at how cool this car is. Unbelievable how much custom fab work has gone into this build and how many new ideas they have come up with.
Can't wait 'till Thursday!

[chassisguy]

Sheetmetal work is awesome guys, i wonder how much its gonna weigh?

[sartren]

That's some awesome metal work. I glimpsed some cool door mirrors what are those off of.

[MyFriendScott]

That is just beautiful stuff to drool over. The new intake cover you made had me scratching my head though. If you didn't like the look of the factory manifold, why make a cover that looks just like it but more uniform? Theoretically, the new cover could look like anything other than intake runners. It could match the vent looking things outside the hood line for instance. It could be the place to mount a show panel of the car's specs, anything but a cover that looks just like what's underneath.
Anyway, I'm thinking you have a winner there and lots of magazine spreads and even more notoriety in the future. The shop certainly deserves it. Thank you for sharing it as it comes together.

[craigs73]

oh my that is sexy..........thanks now i have to wipe off my keyboard :drool:

[ROADSTER SHOP]

Wow!!!!!!
Thanks!


Sheetmetal work is awesome guys, i wonder how much its gonna weigh?
Thank you. We should have it on the scales this week. My guess is that it will be around 3,200 - 3,300 lbs. Weight wasn't really a concern when building this car since it will not be an all out track car.


That's some awesome metal work. I glimpsed some cool door mirrors what are those off of.
Thanks sarten, the mirrors are from an Italian company... then were heavily modified and re-shaped to fit the car.


oh my that is sexy..........thanks now i have to wipe off my keyboard :drool:
Thanks, sorry about the keyboard though!

[ROADSTER SHOP]

Thanks Chris! This car is pretty over the top with the detail work and 1-off parts.

[ROADSTER SHOP]

That is just beautiful stuff to drool over. The new intake cover you made had me scratching my head though. If you didn't like the look of the factory manifold, why make a cover that looks just like it but more uniform? Theoretically, the new cover could look like anything other than intake runners. It could match the vent looking things outside the hood line for instance. It could be the place to mount a show panel of the car's specs, anything but a cover that looks just like what's underneath.
Anyway, I'm thinking you have a winner there and lots of magazine spreads and even more notoriety in the future. The shop certainly deserves it. Thank you for sharing it as it comes together.

Thanks David. The car is full of items that were subtly changed to enhance what was already there. Some items were completely built from scratch to resemble the stock part only with a few tweaks. This is one of those items. We went through a lot of work to chop the top only 3/4", but feel that it made all of the difference in the world. It is similar to what a lot of guys are doing with Camaro bumpers. There can easily be 60-80 hours to tuck a front and rear bumper tighter to the body. When it is done, it looks almost identical to the untrained eye, but obviously different to some one who knows what was done.

[ChrisC73]

BAD ASS!!!!! enough said. I do however have a question, what type of foam is that you used to form the bucks for the dash?

[ROADSTER SHOP]

Re-shape of the fender to add a more aggressive look and meet up with the 1-off headlights that GAC/Millwerks machined up for us.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/headlightcut21-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/122-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/123-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/124-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/125-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/126-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/127-1.jpg

[Mr.VENGEANCE]

uh oh.. game changer right there..

[SRD art]

This is so inspiring, changed some plans for my car since I've seen this build. Sorry if it's been asked already and I missed it- what's the time frame with the photos? Are these all photos from the last couple months or is this live day to day as you post updates?

Keep the photos coming!

[ROADSTER SHOP]

BAD ASS!!!!! enough said. I do however have a question, what type of foam is that you used to form the bucks for the dash?

The foam is a 2 part, pour foam. I can't remember the manufacturer and can't seem to find the containers around the shop. Let me do some digging after Columbus and I'll get back to you if I can find anything.

[ROADSTER SHOP]

This is so inspiring, changed some plans for my car since I've seen this build. Sorry if it's been asked already and I missed it- what's the time frame with the photos? Are these all photos from the last couple months or is this live day to day as you post updates?

Keep the photos coming!

This has been just over a year long build. We started the chassis in February of 2010 and didn't get rolling on the car until about mid March or April. The car will debut at Good Guys Columbus in a few days. We wanted to keep the car under wraps until it was close to the debut date.

[ROADSTER SHOP]

uh oh.. game changer right there..

Thanks :cheers:

[corrado_sean]

wow guys! i wish i could learn to do sheet metal work like that. even the chassis fab. i do body and paint and some light fab but nothing to this extent. i wish i could learn from you guys

[ROADSTER SHOP]

Burning the midnight oil on the last leg before Columbus. Here are a few of the 1-off billet parts for the car.

"RS" center lock wheels
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/wheel-1.jpg

Shift knob, a/c controls, and vents
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/Picture169-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/Picture180-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/Picture172-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/Picture19436-1.jpg

[ROADSTER SHOP]

I'm not sure if words can do the headlights justice so.....

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/headlightcut21-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/headlightcut1-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/headlightcropped4-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/headlightcropped1-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/headlightcropped5-1.jpg

[Jims78elky]

:hail: Those are SICK!! Just outstanding artwork guys.

[John Wright]

Headlights are the bomb....very nice.

[corrado_sean]

jesus! i cant wait to see this thing finished.

[Throttle]

Nice build guys.

[aps63]

True build masters.

[SparkyRnD]

those knobs are incredibly slick

[36couper]

Now I wish I was going to Columbus!

[Mr. Anderson]

holy hell.....

[ssx]

Unbelieveable!!!! Awesome work so far, I can't wait to see the final result!!!!

[venturabeachpup]

I'm totally amazed by the creativity and the high level of craftsmanship being put into this project! My favorite portion is the dash and console. What a sweet unit!

[ROADSTER SHOP]

With a 4" ride height at the rockers, it gets hard to see what is going on under the car, so here are a few shots from the bottom.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/Picture19560-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/Picture19569-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/Picture19576-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/Picture19586-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/Picture19595-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/Picture19599-1.jpg

[BANKO]

Wow, that is beautiful!

[Cakeaholic]

Those headlights are so sweet.

[SVTforme]

Wow - incredible. Almost makes me want to make the trek to Columbus to see it.

Keep up the great work, it is an inspiration to us all!

[Tig]

HOLY SHMOLY The car looks awesome.................
That Billet work is absolutely amazing, great work.

[dms6704]

Amazing design and fabrication!
I'm installing mini wheel tubs in a 66 Chevelle and a friend of mine told me to spot weld the outer wheel tub to the quarter skin. I see you are welding your outer wheel tub to the quarter lip. Would you recommend I do the same as you have or will it not affect the the quarter panel the way I was told?
Thanks,
Dennis

[SRD art]

Just when I thought it couldn't get any better...

[1968CamaroSS_Sam]

Unbelievably great workmanship guys. Great job! Best of luck at Columbus. I am sure I will see a lot more of this car in the near future.

[350SS]

dang, those undercarriage pictures are so awesome they almost don't look real

[protour73]

.......went through all 8 pages of this thread, looked at all of the pictures, stared in amazement of many of them, in appreciation of the beauty and design of this car........broke down sobbing like a little school boy........WOW.:usa:

Phil, you guys have gone to another level here!!! ....ummm...errrr......damn, wow!


will this car be at Chicago Good Guys next month?

[John Wright]

dang, those undercarriage pictures are so awesome they almost don't look real

I was thinking the same thing....it looks like a plastic, model car underneath...too perfect to be real. Wow!

[LeighP]

You guys are insane ... in a good way. Damn, that is mind blowing metal work and design.

[johngross]

This car is true art. Thanks for letting people see it that might not otherwise. It is certainly a showcase of your peoples extensive talents. I hope you will post some final shots when you have the time. Thanx again

[killer67]

Just amazing! Ready to see the top side of the car. Will be in top 5 corral :twothumbs

[langtown]

Incredible!!!

[vector006]

Congrats at Goodguys! Anxiously waiting for detailed pics of the finished car!!!

[protour73]

Phil......unless I missed it, Is this a customer's car?

[Erik Beckett]

I just spent the last 3 days at the Columbus Goodguys show! As far as I am concerned, Innovator stole the show. Plus, the owner hunts with a Mathews bow as well!!!

Congrats on a beautiful ride!!!!!
Erik

[craigs73]

yes i seen the car and man is it sexy!!! i thought man the body lines and few other things look familiar....... lol

[stage2ROUSH]

congrats that is one amazing piece of art !!!

[dropit69]

SMOTY !!!!!! Congrats guys..awesome ride !!!!!!!!

[joeelutz]

Absolutely amazing work! Maybe I missed it as my connection is slow and it takes forever to display the pics, but how did you hang the exhaust pipes at the rear? Are they rigidly mounted to the frame?

[ChrisC73]

Thanks for the reply....
The foam is a 2 part, pour foam. I can't remember the manufacturer and can't seem to find the containers around the shop. Let me do some digging after Columbus and I'll get back to you if I can find anything.

[turbomonaro]

the undercarriage pics, looks insane love the finish, MORE PICS PLEASE ROADSTER SHOP

[Hotwhilz]

Well I guess there aren't any words for this!! Jaw dropping!

[ROADSTER SHOP]

Thanks everyone for the great responses and comments!
Here are a few completed pics of the car for those that did not make it to Columbus.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/Picture20119-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/Picture20118-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/Picture20117-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/Picture20116-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/Picture20110-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/Picture20108-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/Picture20099-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/Picture20094-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/Picture20091-1.jpg

[ROADSTER SHOP]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/Picture19992-1.jpg

Fiber optic lighting in the headliner and floor.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/Picture19993-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/Picture19988-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/Picture19986-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/Picture19983-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/Picture19977-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/Picture19964-1.jpg

[RS_Customs]

:jawdrop::jawdrop::jawdrop::jawdrop::jawdrop::jawd rop::jawdrop::jawdrop::jawdrop::jawdrop::jawdrop:: jawdrop::jawdrop::jawdrop::jawdrop::jawdrop::jawdr op::jawdrop::jawdrop::jawdrop::jawdrop::cool:
Robert

[Tony_SS]

that is just amazing...

[rrstroker71]

Wow, don't know what else to say.

[rjsjea]

Dang.....great looking metal work. Great colors

Where/what are those mirrors off of?

[gordonquixote]

That is so innovative and out of the box that all I can say is that I'm in love. Kudos for setting the bar at an unreachably high level.

[MyFriendScott]

The level of detail is fantastic. I'm completely in awe. It must be sweet sorrow to see it finished and driving away. Great time ahead for the owner now to enjoy!

[sick63nova]

What a nice nova. The workmanship is outstanding. Great build!

[662door]

Old thread but holy god I'm in love! That front bumper/splitter is fantastic and those tail lights are amazing. I must have those mirrors!

[joeelutz]

662door, you've reminded me of what a work of art this car is. I saw the car at Shades of the Past last year and it definitely stood out.

I still have a couple of questions for RS.

Are you using solid motor mounts? The reason for asking is the tin work on top of the enigne connecting to the radiator support doesn't look like it would accomodate much engine rock.

Exhaust: I see the flex couplers just past the collectors. It looks like the exhaust is then rigidly mounted to the frame where it goes through near the trans x member.
Is the exhaust also rigidly connected where the tips come out the sides of the body? I just wondered how you deal with expansion of the pipes when they get hot and try to grow. It doesn't look like there is much room for the tips to move relative to the body.

Thanks for any info and insight into the design of this awesome creation.