1957 Eldorado Brougham

[INTMD8]

I've obsessed over this car for as long as I can remember and finally found one earlier this year.

I'll post up pics as progress is made but as of right now a lot of it is open ended. It is currently at the Roadster Shop getting a complete custom chassis.

They are building the chassis to use separate air bags/shocks. Probably going to use an Accuair leveling system.

I am still undecided on the engine. A few prospects are-

-4.4L supercharged STS-V Northstar.

-500ci LS with dual 4bbl throttle bodies and fabricated batwing air cleaner (a modernized tribute to the original)

-CTS-V LSA

-? Still trying to find out who fabbed up the V12 LS as I think that would be really neat in this car.

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[craigs73]

pretty neat not sure i have seen one of those. i like to see different cars being built.. not sure i like how far that front wheel opening swoops back but i will be watching this built.... i like the v12 idea :) i was thinking about the 8.1 motors chevy puts in there HD truck... i just came across these and was wanting more info on those as well. i do know they make good TQ

[Tiger]

Great project! I vote for a V12, but hey, didnt Cadillac have some V16s at some time as well?
I'd go for belts in those rear wheelwells :O) (just kidding on the belts ofcourse)

[KWKRAG9]

Looking good so far...... As they always said, go big or go home.....

[kochevy67]

I liked the 70 but man I can't wait to see how this turns out.

[INTMD8]

LOL, without the skirts it does look like it should have tracks in the back.

[irregal83]

This looks like a top notch build. Very original. hope you keep us posted!

[INTMD8]

Chassis is coming along....

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[KWKRAG9]

Looks awesome....

[CruizinKev]

wow crazy nice project!!! chassis looks great!! which motor will go in now?

[compos mentis]

All good engine choices that you named of course. I like what Rad Rides is doing on a '56 Buick; strengthening a Nailhead to withstand the addition of twin turbos. For a car like this another option is find the best version of the engine series that came in these Caddy's ... bore, stroke, EFI and maybe T/T it as well. Keep its cool aircleaner too. :)

I wouldn't want a diesel like Divers put in this one, but it sure looks great. http://www.diversstreetrods.com/dandos57/origins.php

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[irregal83]

Love that intake!

[Motor City Impala]

Love the project. Have you viewed the recent Bridgestone tire commercial that features a car similar to yours if not the same car? If not its available on youtube. Keep up the great work and keep us posted.

The recent Cadillac engine you are refering to is a collaborative engineering project between GM and www.katechengines.com It's a V-16, not a V-12. It is the engine as shown in the recent Concept Cadillac Sixteen. For pictures and reference google Cadillac 16. Clicking the link for Katech gets you to the home page with the V-16 shown on the left. This concept was done to pay homage to the V-16 Cadillac's of the late 20's and early 30's. Katech covers ALL forms of motorsports; F1, ALMS, NASCAR, IROC etc, etc...just to name a few. I have a feeling that they could duplicate this engine; but I expect that the GM legal team would not be so agreeable.

Todd

[INTMD8]

Thanks guys.

Divers car is sweet but a bit more radical departure from stock aesthetics.

The engine I was referring to was built by welding 2 LS blocks together to form a V12 for a 3/4 scale P51 replica. (or so I've read).

I am familiar with the Katech V16 and would love to have one but unfortunately the bank denied my application for a 30yr mortgage on an engine :-)

[exwestracer]

How about a Falconer v12?
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[INTMD8]

How about a Falconer v12?


It's been done actually. Dale Armstrong installed one in a Brougham. I'll put up some pics tonight.

[INTMD8]

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[joeko23]

fame looks soo clean

[CruizinKev]

oh yeah wow!!! looks great!!

[andrewb70]

Everything looks really good, but what's up with the steering arm on the Corvette spindle? The stock steering arm is massive where the outer tie rod end attaches. I understand that a new arm is required because of the position of the rack, but why is the new arm tiny compared to the stock one?

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Andrew

[INTMD8]

Andrew, I'm not sure but my best guess would be outer tie rod end fastener size and also the new arm being billet may be of similar strength to the larger original cast piece?

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[andrewb70]

Andrew, I'm not sure but my best guess would be outer tie rod end fastener size and also the new arm being billet may be of similar strength to the larger original cast piece?

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I don't know the exact materials involved, but I am quite certain that the stock spindle is made from a forging. As I understand it, forgings are stronger than "billet" but again, I am not certain of this. The area that caught my attention was not so much the arm itself, but amount of material around the outer tie rod end. It could be a cost savings for GM not to machine the outside of the spindle, but I don't think so. If you look carefully at the stock spindle, the outside of the forging has a conical shape where the tapered tie-rod is attached. This results in a uniform thickness of material around the tie-rod stud.

I am not saying that the RS parts are not strong enough. I just know that a spindle and the steering arms are very critical components. Failure of either can be disastrous. No doubt the GM designed has been analyzed by teams of engineers who were instructed to make a safe part at the lowest cost possible. There seems to be a lot of purpose to their design which should not be discounted. Your life depends on it.

Andrew

[ROADSTER SHOP BRYAN]

The steering arm you see in the photo is made specificly for the RS Fast Track IFS. The arm is made from 7075 T-6 Forged Billet Aluminum. The strength and weight reduction is the key point of this design, along with the ability to lower the steering rack for additional oil pan clearance.

[ryeguy2006a]

Awesome project. I LOVE the frame, If you don't mind posting. What does a one off frame like that cost? If not could you pm me. I am just curious. Very nice car.

[andrewb70]

The steering arm you see in the photo is made specificly for the RS Fast Track IFS. The arm is made from 7075 T-6 Forged Billet Aluminum. The strength and weight reduction is the key point of this design, along with the ability to lower the steering rack for additional oil pan clearance.

That's all I wanted to hear. The frame looks great and I am sure you guys have done your homework.

Andrew

[INTMD8]

Completed chassis :)

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[CruizinKev]

wow beautiful work!!!

[INTMD8]

Trying to decide on wheel/tire sizing so I borrowed these to test fit.

Sizes are-

Front 18x8 4.5 backspace 245/45/18

Rear 20x10 5 1/8 backspace 275/35/20

I like the width and backspace but I think overall tire diameter could go up about an inch.

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[linkstar69]

Great frame

[LeighP]

Beautiful work!

[SRDzuess4u]

Love the small details in the chassis work that make it functional and good eye candy. For whatever reason, the UCA just look like their telling everyone to F...off...lol. But really looks great.

On the wheels that are mocked up.....if your asking opinions...Id say say no way....tires and stance are fine. But its to your taste, its just my opinion. I'm subscribing.

[INTMD8]

Thanks guys, they did do an amazing job on the frame. Attention to detail is superb.

As to the wheels they were only used for fitment so EVOD can make me a set that are copies of the originals.

Like this-

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[SRDzuess4u]

If they make those for and 18 and a 20 inch wheel for you...I think that will be the way to go.....very nice, will put the rest of the car in a different light thats for sure.....sorry for the negative comment on the mock ups, thought you were considering those.....lol

[CruizinKev]

looks great so far!! can't wait to see the wheels!! :twothumbs

[muthstryker]

You should do a 19/20 set up.. I know its just an inch up front but I think it would look a little better. I think the 20 out back is perfect, overall it looks like its coming together nicely. Such a cool car!

[INTMD8]

I found the floors! Exhausting and horrible job.

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[brans72]

My boss has one of those cars that has been fully restored but then gin he does own the Toyota Dealership in Durham,NC. Also has a 59 4 door Caddy in super nice condition that he also drives.

[Tig]

Wow, that looks amazing. Nice metal work.

[andrewb70]

I am definitely glad that you went the "custom" route. This car will be way cooler than an original restoration.

Andrew

[INTMD8]

Thanks Andrew, I'm happy that I went this route as well. To build my all time favorite car exactly how I want it should definitely end up being a keeper :)




Spent some time on the flloors and they are back together. I will probably also remove the spare tire well so I can build a gas tank that goes from frame rail to frame rail. Also need to fab up blockoff plates for the original heat and a/c. (and then figure out what to do with the firewall).

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[Motown 454]

You have a beautiful project going there. The frame and the car are awesome.

[INTMD8]

Thank you sir.


I removed the spare tire well and replaced it with a simple panel. Lots of room for a large capacity fuel tank now.

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[exwestracer]

Still got the question about the seat foam?

[INTMD8]

Exwestracer, thanks but I think I may be able to get it working without altering the springs.

Did a few more things on the car, such as testing tire fitment. Looks like it will be fine on the rear, obviously too wide for the front but I threw it on there just to get an idea of height. 275/55/17, 28.91 diameter. Wish I had the rear fender skirt here, I can't remember how the latch worked or if it will interfere with the tire, I think it swung straight down but not sure.

What I do know is that a roadside tire change will be next to impossible as I need to drop the rear-end down to get the tire over the brakes. Going to have to think a bit on that one.

Brakes are just a dual 9in booster and disc brake master/proportioning valve. 3.5-1 pedal ratio. Boxed in the firewall area with 11 gauge steel.

Engine/trans are in place. I need to make motor mounts (and new trans crossmember) as I set the engine back 4.5inches from where RS put it. The engine and trans oil pans are 1.25 below the frame rail. Still a bit over an inch off the ground when the suspension is on the bump stops but I may raise up the front of the engine slightly to gain some clearance but I wanted to keep driveline angles shallow.

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[andrewb70]

Jim,

You are making great progress! There sure is a ton of room under the hood. I am sure that you have considered a couple of small turbos that will give instant boost and move that boat down the road. If there is any way that I can encourage that idea, please let me know. <evil grin>

Andrew

[INTMD8]

Thanks Andrew. I liked reading your post because we are thinking the exact same thing. Once I had the engine in place I couldn't help thinking about how lonely it looked in there with no turbos. I have the entire engine/turbo system mapped out in my head and as of right now it looks like the direction I'm headed. The thing about it that was really holding me back is that twin turbo motors are no longer unique, they are actually rather commonplace. I think I can pull it off though.

I considered a V12 or V16, but anything nice would be way over 6 figures and that's just not realistic. (unless I did a cross-breed which I can't). I also considered quad turbo but there is no functional reason for it so I can't do it. Every sequential setup I've dreamed up has too many compromises to be seamless. Could I really open the hood at a cruise night and explain to people I used 4 turbos just for the sake of being different? No.

When building a car it's easy to go overboard on things and compromise comfort. I'm really putting an effort into making comfort a primary concern because, let's face it, a car approaching 5000lbs is never going to perform like one 1500+++lbs lighter, so mind as well let it do what it naturally does well. (be a big comfy boat)

I have a pair of Precision 6262's, which to most people would be rather responsive on a 400+inch LS, but what I'm really thinking is a pair of Garrett GT28's. They would be a bit small on a 402, which may limit the efficient RPM range but they would be on like a light switch :-) What I discovered while I owned my Chevelle is that my preference for instant response makes for a more enjoyable car, even if it compromises potential at the dragstrip.

I was for a time convinced that I was going to do a naturally aspirated engine because 90% of the time I don't drive ultra aggressive, but the times I do I don't want to be dissapointed, and the part throttle torque of a turbo motor does feel great.

[Ash]

Wow!! 3rd on going the custom route, that frame is a work of art. Can't wait to see how the wheels turn out, couldn't have gone in a better direction.

With all that room in the bay, you can still set yourself apart. longer Equal length turbo manifolds and a quick spool valve for each turbo would be really trick.

[linkstar69]

For instant power and a somethinng a little out of the norm what about a crank mounted centrifugal blower?

[INTMD8]

Thanks Ash. I've decided on a pair of Tial GT3076R's. Should be super responsive on 400 cubes.

Centrifugal blowers are not my preference. Boost response is fast but still lacks the low/mid range punch of a small set of twins. I don't care for the noise either.

[INTMD8]

Lincoln MK VIII fan fits just about perfect with a little shroud trimming and some aluminum brackets.

I would have considered buying something new but couldn't confirm that their is any other fan available that would outflow this one (and still fit in the available space).

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[andrewb70]

Thanks Ash. I've decided on a pair of Tial GT3076R's. Should be super responsive on 400 cubes.

Centrifugal blowers are not my preference. Boost response is fast but still lacks the low/mid range punch of a small set of twins. I don't care for the noise either.

Hey Jim,

Were the AirWerks turbos too big?

Andrew

[INTMD8]

Hey Jim,

Were the AirWerks turbos too big?

Andrew

Andrew,

Really they were a bit too long for me to put them where I wanted as I planned to use 2 factory air filter housings in front of them.

I did a lot of searching on those turbos for dyno results and what I was finding is that they actually spooled a few hundred rpm slower than the Garrett GT stuff (but made more power up top). Probably because of the extended tip compressor wheel.

They would fit no problem if I didn't have the master/booster where it is. I considered mounting the brake setup outboard and inside the fender but I would be going from direct actuation to a long torsion rod and bell-crank setup and wasn't sure how all that added complexity would effect brake feel.

[andrewb70]

Andrew,

Really they were a bit too long for me to put them where I wanted as I planned to use 2 factory air filter housings in front of them.

I did a lot of searching on those turbos for dyno results and what I was finding is that they actually spooled a few hundred rpm slower than the Garrett GT stuff (but made more power up top). Probably because of the extended tip compressor wheel.

They would fit no problem if I didn't have the master/booster where it is. I considered mounting the brake setup outboard and inside the fender but I would be going from direct actuation to a long torsion rod and bell-crank setup and wasn't sure how all that added complexity would effect brake feel.

Good info. The Tial GT series turbos are very cool. I am assuming that you will be using their v-band inlet stainless turbine housings, right?

Andrew

[INTMD8]

Good info. The Tial GT series turbos are very cool. I am assuming that you will be using their v-band inlet stainless turbine housings, right?

Andrew

Yes sir, stainless v-band turbine .63 a/r.

[INTMD8]

I decided to change to 4th gen F-body motor mounts and move the engine/trans back 5 inches. That required new motor mount plates off of the frame (will be boxed in on top). Steering shaft had to go through the motor mount plates.

All Borgeson pieces. Vibration reducing joint on the rack and telescopic shaft.

I'm going with a Wegner accessory drive similar to the pic below but with simpler windowed pulleys. I asked them to test fit an AD244 alternator because I will need a ton of amps and I was lucky enough that it fit perfectly with no mods to their brackets.

Tried the power steering pump and have good clearance between it and the rack.

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[linkstar69]

I love the steering shaft passing through the motor mount

[INTMD8]

Recieved my GT3076R's from Tial today. They look very nice!



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[andrewb70]

Those are very pretty.

What AR on the turbines?

Andrew

[INTMD8]

.63 a/r. I've started ordering the parts to build a 390ci iron motor. (3.825 stroke, 4.03 bore). If the .63 turbine housings choke it too much above 6000rpm I'll switch them out for .82's

(I would like it to spin to 6400 without dropping off hard)

[KWKRAG9]

Looking sweet.

[INTMD8]

Thanks

It was tough deciding on whether to fab stainless headers or mod flipped manifolds. In the end I decided on manifolds because I thought they would have a slight advantage in terms of transient response due to less internal area. I also thought it may make for a quieter engine due to thicker wall material.

Anyway, I used 2010 Camaro SS manifolds, flipped cut and modded with schedule 40 pipe. The backside of the compressor covers are even with the front of the engine block. Both turbos placement in relation to the engine are identical to each other.

They will look nice once the gates are plumbed in and everything is finish welded and ceramic coated.

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[andrewb70]

What manifolds did you start with?

Andrew

[INTMD8]

Wastegates plumbed, manifolds welded. Test fit accessories. Wegner is working on a bigger A/C compressor as I'm running dual air.

I did some metal work on the core support for the new (much wider) Griffin radiator and Vintage Air "Monster" condenser. Would love to get the intercooler mounted but I need the grill to check clearance (still at chrome shop).

Originally I planned to use the Mark VIII fan but at 21.5 inches wide it didn't cover enough of the 26in wide core. I found Spal makes a dual 12 in fan setup which fits the radiator perfectly (and was originally designed for OEM use in the Maserati Quattroporte) so I have that on order.


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[LeighP]

Man, thats a nice installation!

[Rick D]

Jim
Lookin real nice, did you sell the 70 Chevelle?? Hay if you need any painting done, even though NOS is gone I still do stuff?? I am willing to trade for LS stuff which I'm sure you know where to get!

[INTMD8]

Thanks guys.

Rick, yes I sold the Chevelle to help fund this project.

As for the Cad, I do need the entire car painted. It was done 20yrs ago, the body is rust free and 98% straight but needs to be knocked back down and changed to black :-)

I've been thinking about attempting the prep work myself but we'll see how I feel when I get to that point.

[kmdracer]

Very interesting build. Subbing in to follow along.

[Rick D]

Cool, let me know if you need any help or tips. What about the Vett you still have that or is it gone also??


Thanks guys.

Rick, yes I sold the Chevelle to help fund this project.

As for the Cad, I do need the entire car painted. It was done 20yrs ago, the body is rust free and 98% straight but needs to be knocked back down and changed to black :-)

I've been thinking about attempting the prep work myself but we'll see how I feel when I get to that point.

[INTMD8]

Cool, let me know if you need any help or tips. What about the Vett you still have that or is it gone also??

Man it's been a while since we've talked :)

I sold the Vette, it's been in Saudi Arabia for a couple of years. I then had an F355 and the Chevelle and sold them both to pursue this car.

[srh3trinity]

Fab work looks great and I love the project. How much clearance do you have for valve covers, looks like the manifold will make it tight, but it may just be the angle and LS valve covers are short.

[Protour_Pinto]

Fantastic job! I have always felt if you dont plan on autocrossing or roadracing it would look best with as small of wheel and a good size sidewall to make it a bit more true to the era as far as looks. Im not a fan of the chuck wagon tires a lot of people are going to now a days.

[the dan]

how did you weld to the the cast manifolds? high nickle tig rod?

[INTMD8]

Thanks guys,

srh3trinity- There's certainly not room for a tall valve cover but I've used these on another turbo build and had no clearance issues.

Protour_Pinto- I agree. Minimum wheel size to clear the brakes is 17" but I didn't exactly find front/rear tires in the sizes I wanted. Evod is going to build the wheels similar to Bob Johnsons Buick wagon where part of the wheel actually takes on the look of the tire sidewall. So 18's and 19's will end up actually looking like much smaller wheels.

the dan- No, just regular mild steel filler rod. Pre and post heat with an oxy-acetylene torch. They weld very clean actually, almost like regular steel. We've mig'd them and tig'd them and never had a failure.

[INTMD8]

Oh look, some bling. I had the chrome shop send me this jigsaw puzzle and I assembled it so I could check for intercooler clearance.

Originally it was anodized and the face polished but I thought why not go with chrome to match the bumper.


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[linkstar69]

Nice piece.

[Rick D]

It looks alright if that's what your into :lol:. Looks nice Jim, who did the chrome work?

[INTMD8]

Thanks, Josh at Custom Metal Finishing is doing every piece of chrome and stainless on the car. http://www.chromeplatingin.com/

Tonight I tacked the intercooler into place. I'm not sure of the exact grill placement but I had it spaced back from the inner nose about 1/2 of an inch and then I positioned it so the mounting tabs were close to vertical.

I don't have the bumpers here but looking at close-up pics of #123 online it appears they set back only about 1/2in from the front sheetmetal.

The Spal dual fans I ordered didn't seem to move enough air when I bench tested them so, the 5th fan I ended up trying is a single 18in fan from an 01 Crown Vic. The fan shroud is on the big side but it fits the radiator core nearly perfect and seems to flow a lot of air.

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[LeighP]

Now that fits real nice!

[INTMD8]

I worked on the car a bit more the last couple of days. I decided I didn't like my radiator mounting and intercooler placement. The radiator mounting just looked odd to me and the intercooler blocked off most of the radiator airflow.

I made some new brackets to mount the radiator from the backside, then made some mounts to bolt the fan shroud on and also new intercooler brackets. (so both intercooler and radiator get some direct airflow).

Also punched four holes through the core support. Two 3in stubs on top for turbo inlet and two 2.75 stubs down lower for charge side piping.

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[LeighP]

Man, I love this car!!!!

[Zanie]

man, i love this car!!!!
i concur!

[Hotwhilz]

+10 susrbide, nice fab and garage built on top!

[INTMD8]

Thanks guys. To be fair I do work for a shop (and bring everything back and forth to tig weld it).

I made a bit more progress these past few days.

The hood hinges were interesting to work around. (there is a guide bar that extends from them when the hood is closed). And before someone asks, yes I will build a heat shield for the master cylinder :-)

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[66SuperSport]

Incredible work !!!!!

[FRENCHBLUE72]

Nice.. Gonna be a big fast comfy car..

[INTMD8]

Thanks! Big comfy and fast is what I'm going for :)


I fitted up the passenger side today, tried to keep it somewhat symmetrical.

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[ent72olds]

Like Billy Ocean said,"simply awesome!" Man, love this year eldo...rarely seen too...love your skills!

[Bad66Chevelle454]

I just have to say this is probably my favorite build thread on any car, or any site. I have my 66 Chevelle which is what brought me to this site. But I have a huge love for old big ass Cadillacs. I want to add an LS combo to it and air bag it but that's about it. Yours is just simply amazing and I can't believe how insanely well built yours is. Can't wait to see more of your build!

Here's mine....waiting for restoration and everything else:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/0928081819-1.jpg

[INTMD8]

Thanks guys!

Wow, that limo is a monster. I would need to leave 5ft hanging out of my garage and set up a tent around it :)


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[Tig]

Wow, they look great. Nice beads.
Awesome work.

[INTMD8]

Thanks!

I almost finished up the cold side (just need to add bypass valves). The drivers side turbo piping runs under the engine and Y's with the passenger turbo just before going through the core support.

These parts were fusion welded because I like the way it looks and it's plenty strong for the cold side.

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[KnightMare]

All this attention on the frame, I can't wait to how the body is going to turn out. Subscribed

[Ash]

Simply stunning. The Cast log manifolds give it a legit factory look, I really dig it man. Also, the Edelbrock intake...I can't help but picture yours done up in the same livery as the Cadillac 16, along with the valve covers.

57433

The Tials are front and center. Maybe a circular cover for the front with "Tial" in Cadillac Cursive Font, or a period Cadillac Logo (Black/silver or regular gold/red Colored) with the "V" below it. Just thinking out loud. Flawless craftsmanship Sir.

57434

[Tig]

Wow, the cold side looks amazing. Fitment is key, especially with SS. That looks like it was a perfect fit from the fusion. Looks amazing.
I love that sh*t, hah.

Just curious, why did you go with SS on your cold side and not aluminum? Personally I would've done the same thing, I love tig welding SS, hah.

Awesome job, everything looks great.

[INTMD8]

Thanks guys!

Ash, thanks for the ideas. I certainly plan to implement many small details when it's finish assembled. Only downside is the hood opens forward so the engine will mostly be viewed from the sides and not directly from the front.

Tig- I went with stainless because if I decide to go with a brushed or polished finish on the stuff it will all have the same appearance under the hood. (in terms of the cold side and downpipes).

[INTMD8]

Pilot sport PS2. Front 255/45/19 (28.1 diameter) rear 275/40/20 (29.8 diameter).

EVOD will build the wheels with a simulated sidewall so they will appear to be 16's and 17's with a lot of sidewall height. I think this is the ideal way to achieve the proper look on an old car like this while still having brake clearance and the ability to run a performance tire.

At approximate ride height-

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On the bump stops-

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[LeighP]

Trick idea with the wheels.....have a white band on the outside that just looks like whitewall on the tyres.....great!!!!!

[shovellac]

I love this, absolutely love it. I want to build something similar

[Bad66Chevelle454]

Any updates on the baddest car ever?

[acegto]

Any updates on the baddest car ever?

Really. We need our fix. Subscribed.

[Code Red]

awesome caddy, and yeah that limo is huge

[INTMD8]

Any updates on the baddest car ever?

Really. We need our fix. Subscribed.

Thanks guys, but sorry, I've been slacking. Being my all time favorite car you would think I would be scrambling to get it done but I'm just content to have it in the garage and work on it now and then.

Only thing I've done is modded/relocated the trans crossmember and a bit more exhaust work. Stainless bellows attach to the downpipes, then Vibrant resonators. 3in to 2.5 transitions then dual 2.5 through the tunnel. 2 inch crossover after the tunnel. That's as far as I've got.

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[Zanie]

So So cool!
Will you have this displayed at your open house, this Saturday?

[INTMD8]

Thanks Zanie and I didn't see your post until now but no I didn't bring it to the open house. Probably next year when I'm a bit further along and I have wheels to roll it around on :)

I've been a bit lazy on the car but a new part arrived, a fuel tank that matches the roof :)

Thanks to Hector and the guys at Rick's tanks. This is their Vaporworx tank which runs corner pickups and a dual pump module from a 2012 Cadillac CTS-V. It's brushed stainless and has a 26.5 gallon capacity. Stock tank is 20 gallons.

Just need to get some brackets. (It will be mounted to the frame).

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[Bad66Chevelle454]

The fuel tank is a work of art in itself!

[INTMD8]

They did do an excellent job on it!

A few more pics now that it's mounted.

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[KnightMare]

This entire build is pure art all the way down to the fuel tank

[INTMD8]

Thanks! They did do a great job. A few angles on the tank dimensions (rather than just being squared up) really made it fit within the frame rails nicely.

I made some more progress on the exhaust. I decided to go under the axle with the exhaust and I feel I should explain why since it's not something I would normally do.

Having the Roadster Shop frame, the rearend is tucked up higher and has about 5.5 inches of total travel. With the rearend on the bumpstops their is zero room above it. At full suspension sag the rearend is still tucked up pretty high in the car. Since the exhaust had to still travel upwards from the round pass-through holes in the frame (rather than being bent down to go around the axle) it seemed like going under was the logical choice.

In the pics you will see how it looks with the rearend at full sag. The pics with the stand under the rearend is at the half way point of suspension travel. At that point the lower control arms are still lower than the exhaust system.

Pictured from the rear the fuel tank blocks the view of most of it. At nearly ground level you can see the pipes and rear axle but overall I like the way it looks and am very happy with the way it's going. Next will be mounting the mufflers and making the rest of the exhaust hangers.

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[INTMD8]

Wheel progress! They should be done in a couple of weeks. :thumbsup:

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[Bad66Chevelle454]

Exhaust looks perfect. It's still tucked up there and doesn't look like its hanging down. Can't wait to see the wheels on the car and get to really see the look!

[INTMD8]

Thanks! I am really excited to see the wheels on the car as well.

The exhaust is finally completed and is suspended from it's hangers. Never thought I would have so much time into just an exhaust system.

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[acegto]

Beautifully done

[fastfail]

Amazing machine.

[Bad66Chevelle454]

Does the drive shaft go below or on top of the exhaust in the middle?

[Zanie]

Looks to be above
63129

[INTMD8]

Thanks guys. Yes the driveshaft goes above the exhaust. It will need to be 2 piece with a center support bearing. Talking with the Driveshaft shop now about putting something together for it.

[Bad66Chevelle454]

Thats what I was guessing since my 62 has a similar driveshaft set up but it just looks like a tight fit in that picture.

[LeighP]

Beautiful work.....eye candy for gearheads.

[Tig]

Wow, that exhaust is a work of art. Great job.

[INTMD8]

Thanks!

Wheels are finished! Having these built made a lot of things possible that otherwise wouldn't be. They have preserved the classic look of the car while allowing 19 and 20in Y speed rated (186mph) Michelin PS2's and also clearance for C6 Z06 brakes.

All of this should compliment the Roadster Shop chassis well.

Thanks to Larry and the crew at EVOD for the impressive illusion! :)


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[pinky49]

the wheels are as impressive as the rest of the build!
ed

[Zanie]

Holy Cats! Those wheels are so freakin cool.....what a great illusion. I'm curious why you went with staggered sizes as apposed to same diameter front and rear?

[KnightMare]

Real real cool wheels. Look like like factory

[INTMD8]

Thanks guys. We thought it would look better with slightly more tire/rim diameter in the rear.

They did the same thing on Bob Johnson's Buick wagon and I think it looks great.

[INTMD8]

Gauge cluster re-chromed, lenses polished. Ready to be sent to Redline gauge works for speedo/odo rebuild and convert the rest to modern electronics.

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[AmKenpo1]

I love this build everything looks amazing. Can't wait to sit around ChiTown.

Wil.

[KnightMare]

More bling on the dash then the rims, I'm digging it

[INTMD8]

Had some miscommunication on the wheels specs and they ended up not fitting the car. Rather than try to modify them they are making me a new set.

I've been working on the front seat, integrating seat belts. The belt regulator and top mount/bezel are from an Escalade 3rd row seat and mounted in a similar fashion (belt exiting top of seat). I measured the distance on the Escalade seat from the seat bottom to the bezel and made pieces to mount these at the same height on the Brougham seat. Feels like it will be comfortable and the angle on the belt is minimal. (should be fine as it exactly duplicates the geometry of the stock cadillac seat).

Seat frame will be strengthened. Where the rearmost seat mounting holes are in the floor I'm going to add a body mount there to the frame.

Now I need to take the seat back frame and modify the structure to go around the seat belt assemblies. Over this will be a shaped piece of high density foam that will take place of the original springs. I'll have the plastic seat belt bezels duplicated in aluminum and chrome plated.

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[kmdracer]

Still awesome. Too bad about the wheels not fitting, but they look great. Can't wait to see the correct ones mounted up.

[INTMD8]

Thanks!

Ok, on to the rears. Much easier install here. Regulators mounted via an "L" bracket to the floor just ahead of the trunk hinge structure. Of course all mounting points will be reinforced. Pass-through hole cut in rear deck where bezel mounts were welded in. Put matching holes in the rear package tray and attach bezel. Looks nice I think! Not as clean as no seat belts at all but I like the idea of having them. The metal latch plates can be slid down between the seat cushions when not in use so the only thing you would really see when parked is the bezels and belts.

I'm having all the bezels made in aluminum which will then be chromed to match everything else in the interior. Front bezels will be made on a radius to match the seat curvature.

I picked up some mid 60's Cadillac belts and will have everything re-webbed jet black and put together with the vintage latches. Too bad I couldn't get the same pattern on the belt material as the seats, might blend in better.

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[INTMD8]

Worked on the seat frame a bit more today. I know nothing about upholstery but the plan was to replace the coil spring pack with high density foam.

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[dontlifttoshift]

Nice job!

[INTMD8]

Thanks!

On to a bit more progress. Nothing exciting or performance related.

Originally this car was equipped with rear heaters. Cores/fans mounted under the rear seats that blew through vents that were just under the leading edge of the seats.

I decided that instead of having just rear heat why not heat and A/C. Up front with be a VA Gen IV unit with fresh air/recirc door (no pics of that yet). Rear is another VA unit designed to be trunk mount.

I removed the original air return ducting from the unit (which curved up and forward) so I could build my own through a duct in the rear shelf.

So, as far as the pics go, the center large duct is air inlet (this system is purely recirculating) and the smaller outboard rectangular holes will be the top vents. There will also be vents under the seats as pictured.

I covered the vents on the rear shelf by a grill that matches those on the lower door panels. It sits in a steel frame that allows it to be flush mounted.

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[INTMD8]

Ok, some shiny stuff!

I received the gauges back from Shannon at Redline gauge works and they turned out amazing.

Changes were, freshen up speedometer assembly and recalibrate for the new 160mph gauge face. (was 120, not quite good enough)

All of the other gauges were replaced with Speedhut programmable gauges that have a warning light output. This is nice because it is all modern electronics and the gauges themselves will drive the original warning lights. (hard to see but they are little red Cadillac emblems in the gauge faces).

Also, shift indicator pattern was changed to match the 4l80 transmission.

Very happy with these!!

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[KnightMare]

I can't say how many times how this is one of my favorite builds

[INTMD8]

Thanks!

So I mentioned the fresh air/recirc door I was working on for the front A/C unit.

I think this will do, no chance of stale air in this ride :)

Basically just a plenum that sandwich mounts between the blower motor and A/C box attached to a dodge ram fresh air door. Need to make a close-out panel and then route it up to the cowl.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/01/photo14e-1.jpg
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https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/01/img2093p-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/01/img2094ua-1.jpg

[INTMD8]

More boring A/C stuff. I made ports that pass through the floor. Tubes will connect to these from underneath the car and to the plenums for the under-seat vents.

I made the top vents to aim more towards the outside and up. Thought it would be good if the air was directed away from the center return duct. Of course when finished the ducting/vents will be black and there will be a black cloth/felt? material underneath the grill on all areas that aren't flowing air.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/01/picture001wdd-1.jpg
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https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[andrewb70]

Nice work...What is the expected weight of this beast? 5000 pounds? More?

Andrew

[Dave B]

Wow, pretty amazing! I know an old Caddy guy that would be crying if he saw this...but this will be better than any Caddy they built back then.

[Gojeep]

Thanks for showing this part of the build too as not often detailed.

[88s10]

Very nice build, doing a pt caddy is on my list of cars to build but i want a drop top so when im old my wig flys off lol keep up the amazeing work

[acegto]

Wow, pretty amazing! I know an old Caddy guy that would be crying if he saw this...but this will be better than any Caddy they built back then.

Thats exactly why he'll be crying...pure jealousy!

[Anchor]

This is awesome. So many good ideas! I hope you don't mind if I steal some :D

[E.rodz]

glad to see your still making progress on this on keep up the great work and it will be on the road in no time!

[INTMD8]

Thanks guys.

Andrew, it's 5200lbs stock I believe so you are likely right that it will end up around 5k when finished.

[INTMD8]

Got most of the chrome! And Mouton fur for the carpeting.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/04/img21971-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/04/img21981-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/04/img21991-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/04/img22001-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/04/img22011-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/04/img22021h-1.jpg

[INTMD8]

Been working on a few things here and there. First off, the original dash vents are just under the windshield and really don't work well. I filled those along with the ash trays on either side of the glove box (which also required work to fit well) and installed 3 vents from a 63 Cadillac.

The left and center vent are spaced exactly the same in relation to the instrument cluster. The outer vents are spaced exactly the same in relation to the outer edges of the dashboard.

Also, the turbo manifolds I built started out as flipped 2010 Camaro manifolds. Well now the new ZL1 Camaro has stainles steel versions of those same manifolds so of course I had to rebuild them out of those. (work in progress).

I recieved a new 8-rib drive system from Wegner's. Casey Wegner was nice enough to build this, (THANKS!!) as I needed a bigger Sanden compressor to run the dual a/c systems.

And for some pics-

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/04/broughamdash2-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/04/broughamdash1-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/04/img2255o-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/04/img2254k-1.jpg

[INTMD8]

I realized I had a bit of a problem in that the rear wheels could not be installed/removed without dropping out the entire rear end. Reason being is the rotors proximity to the skirted rear fender. Nothing would fit between it.

The more I thought about this the more it bothered me so I knew it had to be fixed.

Solution was upgrading to a GMR floater and moving the brakes as far inboard as possible. Also had to rotate caliper position so the top of the caliper was no higher than the top of the hub. This now gives me almost 11 inches between the rotor and the fender to install the 20x9 wheel and 255/45/20 PSS.

Decided on 6-piston PBR calipers (C6Z) and Wilwood rotors.

Donny at Frame-Up Wheel Works (dontlifttoshift) tackled this project for me and he was great to work with. Every aspect of his work, from track width, caliper position and modifications required to get the rotors to work with the calipers was absolutely spot on perfect. Thanks Donny!!!

I had already built a 31 spline true-trac setup so I had to sell all that and put together a new one. Ended up with a strange iron housing, 35 spline S-trac and oem 3.50 gear.

Should work out nicely!!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/04/img2243i-1.jpg
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[alocker]

Do you have a finish date goal in mind? Just curious. Can't wait to see the finished product. Nice Diavel too.

[LeighP]

Amazing work on that rear axle....matches the rest of the build!!!!

[INTMD8]

Thanks guys. There is no target completion date. Number one concern is building the car to be as nice as possible, I'm not concerned about time.

[dontlifttoshift]

Man, you got a lot done this weekend! Glad it worked out just the way you wanted.

[INTMD8]

Many thanks to Frank at The Driveshaft Shop!!!!!!

I received this bit of awesomeness today. 2 piece carbon fiber shaft, dual CV. Beautiful piece!

Can't wait to get the car up on the rack so I can test fit it and get some more pictures. :)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/driveshaft1-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/driveshaft3-1.jpg

[andrewb70]

Many thanks to Frank at The Driveshaft Shop!!!!!!

I received this bit of awesomeness today. 2 piece carbon fiber shaft, dual CV. Beautiful piece!

Can't wait to get the car up on the rack so I can test fit it and get some more pictures. :)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/driveshaft1-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/driveshaft3-1.jpg

You will be very pleased with the CV driveshaft. I have one in my GTO and it smoothed out the car like you wouldn't believe. If you want to be really fancy, Holinger Engineering makes a CV pinion yoke for the 9" rear.

Andrew

[INTMD8]

You will be very pleased with the CV driveshaft. I have one in my GTO and it smoothed out the car like you wouldn't believe. If you want to be really fancy, Holinger Engineering makes a CV pinion yoke for the 9" rear.

Andrew

Good to hear it Andrew. Now you tell me about that yoke! ;-)

I was looking around for that yoke and didn't come up with anything. Thought it would be good as-is. Driveline angle from the center to the rearend is fine actually, it really just needed the CV at the front as I have the engine at 4.5 degrees.

[andrewb70]

Good to hear it Andrew. Now you tell me about that yoke! ;-)

I was looking around for that yoke and didn't come up with anything. Thought it would be good as-is. Driveline angle from the center to the rearend is fine actually, it really just needed the CV at the front as I have the engine at 4.5 degrees.

Here is a link:

http://www.holinger.com.au/flanges.php

There are numerous yoke listed on that website, but I emailed them at one point and they told me about the CV yoke.

Andrew

[Qua-Hoon!]

Update? This build is bad ass. I love seeing the creative ways you're solving problems with fitment and customizing.

Alex

[Flintstones]

Sensational build!!
I love the symmetry and detail of it all.

Subscribed :)

[fonz3482]

Great work on this build!! Never thought I'd see a cadillac pop up on a pro touring forum! Is the bike floating around in the back ground all custom too? Not to get off subject, but I wouldn't mind knowing some info on that! It Looks sweet!!

[andrewb70]

Jim has been spacing on the updates here. I know he is further along on the project...LOL

Jim, call Frank. He has a batch of CV pinion yokes for both the 9" and the Chevy 12 bolt rear ends.

Andrew

[CampbellshotrodsAZ]

Awesome project. I've always loved the big Caddy's, and this particular model is one of my favorites, so I'll definitely follow along.

[driveit]

Amazing craftsmanship on this car. If I had the money I would so pay you to do mine or at least teach me. I am blown away.

[INTMD8]

LOL, thanks! I was being lazy but you guys have motivated me so get ready to be bombed with updates.

[INTMD8]

Ok, here is a test fit of the driveshaft. Perfect!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/t4lh-1.jpg


Full extension-

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/p5m8-1.jpg

Full compression-

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/hcho-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/s0ci-1.jpg

[INTMD8]

I decided I needed some tools.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/j5yj-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/1v4x-1.jpg

[INTMD8]

Like most everything else I've done, I decided to rebuild the floors that I boxed in around the frame.

The floors to either side of the frame were beat up a bit and also there wasn't much room for your foot on the outboard sides. Soooo, I cut it all out and started over.

The Baileigh brake and bead roller work awesome. The ancient band saw is kicking ass as well. Not sure how I survived without this stuff.


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/0op7-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/oxvy-1.jpg
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https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/glat-1.jpg

[INTMD8]

Wheels were completed and are currently out getting chrome plated

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/7twy-1.jpg

[INTMD8]

I scrapped the air to air and Edelbrock intake and built a liquid intercooler setup that will use 2 throttle bodies and somewhat looks like the original dual quad batwing.

Also, it's now going to be a Texas Speed LSA engine.


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/2mkm-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/4ria-1.jpg
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https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/7cmq-1.jpg
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https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/qu5t-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/7uwr-1.jpg

[INTMD8]

And where I'm at today. I built a new core support which gives me a bigger opening for a radiator.

Now using dual fans from a 2010 F150. One 15in fan and one 14.5in fan and they flow a ton of air.

Air filters will be behind the headlights.

Also received my pistons from CP. Could have used a shelf piston but I specifically wanted a spherical dish with no valve reliefs.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/l082-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/ji22-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/2wlv-1.jpg
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https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/1f6m-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/03/xgif-1.jpg

[Flintstones]

Absolute work of art.
Loving this build and the originality you are trying to keep with the car.
Cheers
D

[[email protected]]

Looks amazing!

[talwell]

Jim,

Very impressive and a true testament to your attention for detail. This car will be beyond words once completed.

BTW - I saw my Rushforths on your car that you used for a test fit....they look much better on 69 Camaro :)

[Jetfixr320]

Very cool build! I may have missed it, But what is the color of the car?

[subtlez28]

WOW!

This is some next level stuff!

Just awesome!

[Gojeep]

Fantastic update and good use on the new tools too. :)

[acegto]

Jaw on floor...love your build.

[240g]

Awesome...just AWESOME

[Qua-Hoon!]

Nice custom work on the batwing air cleaner. I want something close to that for my 57 Coupe de ville. I'm still on the fence if I should go with a light PT build.

Anyway, question, the liquid inter-cooler.. is this for a water / meth injection?

** Andrew, are you on NoRotors? The pinup avatar has me wondering.

Alex

[PeteZ06]

Holy crap Jim!! This thing is crazy! I remember you telling me about your plans at the gym... but this is well above anything I imagined. Love the hidden big wheels idea!!

Nice Diavel... I picked up a street fighter type of a bike as well over the winter... let me know if you want to go riding this summer.. would love to see the Caddy in person!

[jlcustomz]

First looked at this thread to see a 57 Eldorado. But except for glympses of the original car's shell I've gotten lost looking at the cool fab work going on, forgetting what the original car was.

Updates on fab projects like this give me something to look forward to after a bad work day.

[INTMD8]

Thanks very much guys!

Todd, agreed on the wheels but it was still helpful to ballpark sizing :)

Jetfixr- It's currently the original color of Deauville gray. I think its nice, looks good in some light but a bit too purplish for me. It's 20+ yr old lacquer so I need to take it down and repaint it.

Alex- The liquid intercooler just removes heat from the air compressed by the turbochargers. Coolant circulates through a pump to the intercooler to a front mounted heat exchanger and so forth.

Hi Pete and thanks! Would love to go riding but sold the Diavel after I picked up a 59 Cadillac convertible. Now I just have my trusty 86 Honda :rotfl:

[dusterbd13]

just read the whole thread. having worked on a few of this era of cadillacs for a local customer, I can appreciate the effort this is taking. and expense. caddy parts are rare, made of unobtanium when they do exist, and expensive when the guy os willing to let it go.

anyway, I liked what you did with the fresh air/blend door mod to the vintage air. can you share some details of how you did it, and how you plan to control it?

thanks
Michael

[finally a 57]

awesome build, updates?

[andrewb70]

Updates?

Andrew