SickSpeedMonte - A 6-speed and (one day) twin turbo Monte Carlo SS

[SickSpeedMonte]

I'm starting to get to the point with this project where I'd really like to have some more experienced eyes watching over and giving advice.

A little background:
This is my first car, and it has a lot of sentimental value, so I'd like to fix it up rather than the easier mehtod of buying another Monte and swapping parts.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/02/Rolling2JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/CCPainted2JPG-1.jpg

She looks great on the outside... but this is what lurked under the carpet.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/de92917d-1.jpg

So tonight I pick up my new passenger side floor pan. I'm going to have to do the driver's too, but at least doing them seperately, I don't have to remove the body from the frame and I can still enjoy the car this year before winter. When the season is over, hopefully I can get the body on a rotissery and fix the rot in the trunk, and anywhere else that I find. I also plan on making some frame modifications to stiffin it up, make it handle serious power, and get some better suspension geometry.

Right now the car has a ZF6 blue tag transmission that I bought NOS a few years ago. I also have a black tag that I want to get built by ZR51 in AZ to handle the power of FI. I bought Doug's (sicmonte's) old 010 block 355 that was slated for a procharger, and that will be the base for my TT build. Forged Eagle crank and rods, forged SRP pistons, dart pro1 215cc heads, *and the cast CHEVROLET valve covers Doug!*
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/11/PistonsAndRods-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/11/DartIntake-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/11/010EngineFront-1.jpg

Here's the dash/console project I've been working on, using 2 part marine pour foam to build up where needed, and fiberglass to cover...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/11/b0d4a52e-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/f602354d-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/11/3ae2af06-1.jpg

I would reccomend this project for anyone who loves to sneeze and hates to drive a car with an interior in it, because you won't have one for a while...
Mocked up...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/6fbeb859-1.jpg

Cool little electrical box to house relays for the fans/HID's/fuel pump/etc.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/11/PICT0315JPG-1.jpg

Here's how the car sits currently...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/d77accf1-1.jpg

So that's where I'm at... I sure hope I don't screw this up!

[CruizinKev]

looking good Bernie! :cheers:

[WS6]

Good luck! I like the idea you have for the dash and center console.

[SickSpeedMonte]

Thanks! I just wanted to modernize it a little bit. When it was stock, it looked like a truck inteiror...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/MyCarInterior-1.jpg

Here it is mocked up a little earlier in the process, to give you an idea. I tried to preserve the stock styling, but with a console that is more integrated with the dash.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/11/fbd44310-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/c8c74a89-1.jpg

I really need a smaller steering wheel!

[SickSpeedMonte]

Picked this up yesterday... need to get the other side too.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/f3c13442-1.jpg

There are braces on the top of the floor that need to come off to be re-used. Here's the spot weld drill that I got from NAPA. I drill a little pilot hole with a second drill and then use the spot weld drill. Then I sandblast the braces. I need to pick up some primer for the sandblasted parts and the bare metal after I weld in the floors. Should I use epoxy primer? Is that different form self-etching primer?

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/4900dcc8-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/7c9a6e92-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/7a3e4d34-1.jpg

I drill the spot out with this and then take a chisel and hammer and try to seperate the brace from the floor. It is so hard to find some of those spot welds!

[howehot]

When we did the tubs on my Monte, we used self etch primer on the bare metal after degreasing it.

By the way, your Monte is what inspired me to update mine. The Schwartz chassis maybe over and beyond, but the first plan was spindles, coils.... to get a stance like yours. One day I'll have the 6 speed.

Dan

[Samckitt]

Hey Bernie, where are you in MD? I am near Virginia Beach now, been here about 2 years now. When (if) I ever get this LS2/T56M ever swapped in maybe I'll come visit.

[SickSpeedMonte]

When we did the tubs on my Monte, we used self etch primer on the bare metal after degreasing it.

By the way, your Monte is what inspired me to update mine. The Schwartz chassis maybe over and beyond, but the first plan was spindles, coils.... to get a stance like yours. One day I'll have the 6 speed.

Dan

Thanks! Your's blows mine away right now though, very very nice work...

I'm very glad that you decided to update the Monte rather than buy a new Camaro! You won't see another of what you have going down the road, that's for sure!



Hey Bernie, where are you in MD? I am near Virginia Beach now, been here about 2 years now. When (if) I ever get this LS2/T56M ever swapped in maybe I'll come visit.

You coming to the Cecil show on the 9th? I'm right there. Hoping to make it to OC in October, but we'll have to see how this resto goes.

[SicMonte]

Dude...looking good!!! I really need to do my floors too but the damn cage is in the way!!! I want to come up to help....and drop off your wedding gift! hehehehe

[SSninja]

New floor pans are over-rated!

I want to see progress on the twin turbos! :)

[SickSpeedMonte]

Dude...looking good!!! I really need to do my floors too but the damn cage is in the way!!! I want to come up to help....and drop off your wedding gift! hehehehe

What's the cage attached to? Is there rust around the attachment points or could we patch other areas?

Dave - me too! But if you saw the condition of my body at the panel seems, you'd wonder how it's not popping windows all the time with the little mill in there now.

[Samckitt]

Thanks! Your's blows mine away right now though, very very nice work...

I'm very glad that you decided to update the Monte rather than buy a new Camaro! You won't see another of what you have going down the road, that's for sure!




You coming to the Cecil show on the 9th? I'm right there. Hoping to make it to OC in October, but we'll have to see how this resto goes.



Cecil show? No idea what that is, or what OC in October is. I guess I am old & out of the loop.

[Motorcitydak]

Can you elaborate on that foam? Did you just pour a large shape then trim it down to what you want? This seems like a really good way I could make some of the front splitter and rear diffuser I want

I used a Blair spot weld cutter like that, never liked it. IMHO that spring loaded tip is worthless, the bit can still walk around all it wants. I still ended up drilling pilot holes for it a lot of times. Then the last set of 3 replacement bits I got were what put me over the edge on em, they must have been either a wrong metal type or heat treated wrong. They were very brittle and all 3 broke every tooth off both sides after maybe 6 cut spot welds. I ended up switching to these

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Spot-Weld-Cutter-Drill-Bit-set-HSS-1-4-5-16-3-8-USA-/380422265243?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item5892ef199b#ht_1922wt_93

[SickSpeedMonte]

Scot - Jun 9 there is a huge show and nostalgic drags at Cecil County Dragstrip, check the MidAtlantic regional forum at MCSS.com for the flyer. OC is way bigger, thousands of cars come to Ocean City, MD twice a year for Hot Rod Weekend.

Steve, the foam was ordered from US Composites (I think) and it' is just two liquids that you mix equal parts into a cup and stir it for 30 seconds or so. I used an old paddle wood boring bit on a dril which worked really well. It starts to foam and expand, and then you pour it into a form.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/a0511e45-1.jpg

The tin foil helps the cardboard come off very easily, and then the foil just sands off. I used a paint stripper wheel on my angle grinder to get the rough shape and then finished it by hand with 80 grit. It's very easy to shape.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/1883ab7e-1.jpg

If you want to lay fiberglass, you can lay it right on top and finish with filler. If you want to lay CF (or make a plug to make a mold), you should put body filler directly on the foam and finish it that way. Something thin like a spoiler or splitter... you might want to pour the foam around a steel frame so that it has some rigidity when you pull the form off and doesn't want to break so easily. It's pretty tough actually, but I wouldn't risk it.

[SickSpeedMonte]

Doug, I'll be working on the car all day today. I don't know if I will get to actually welding in the new floors, as it looks like I might have to pull off the AC box first...

[WS6]

I used weld through primer on my core support to cover the bare metal on the inside. I'm not sure if regular or epoxy primer will cause problems with the welds. I got the weld through primer from an autobody supply shop. Good luck.

[SickSpeedMonte]

Thanks for the tip on the weld thru primer. I already primed one seat mount with self etching primer but ill look into that.

Got a bunch of the floor out today.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/31d79c55-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/33cb92cc-1.jpg

[SickSpeedMonte]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/dc234cce-1.jpg

[SSninja]

I didn't know you have exhaust cutouts. Get a chance to use them often?

[SickSpeedMonte]

Not really, ive used them at the track a few times but then i always have to use high temp rtv to seal them back up.

[jlcustomz]

Like where you're going with the dash shape. Dashes really are a pain & the g-body's are one of the worst. I reshaped a abs plastic dash cap to lay over my old dash years ago, covered with landeau foam & ultraleather. Got sidetracked over the years & never finished the console & other interior details. Didn,t make a big enough overhang over the gauge panel & it reflects on the windshield slightly at night . Live & learn, huh.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
http://s1094.photobucket.com/profile/jlcustomz1/uploads#!cpZZ1QQtppZZ36
PS, glad to see I,m not the only one that did a 6-speed swap,etc, etc, & still has the factory grey steering column with the automatic shifter hloe still there.

[Motorcitydak]

Really like the car, good luck with it. Thanks for the pics and info, gears are turnin' rite now.....

[SickSpeedMonte]

Thanks guys! jl, do you have any pictures of how you reshaped the abs?

I got a little time in last night and started trimming the new pan to fit. I had to hammer and dolley a relief in for the exhaust. It still needs a little work there, but not too bad for my first time with a hammer and dolley.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/f5ab8685-1.jpg

I still have a bit more trimming to do and I need to get some weld-through primer.

[SickSpeedMonte]

Double post

[SicMonte]

looks really good!!!!!

ready to do mine?

[SickSpeedMonte]

looks really good!!!!!

ready to do mine?

Sure, we'll get it done :)

[SicMonte]

I have a nasty rust/cancer spot on the underside of the footwell on my passenger side. I dont think it is the actual floor but maybe a cross brace? No idea...all I know is that it's nasty!!

[SickSpeedMonte]

Take a picture of it and I'll see if I recognize it.

[jlcustomz]

SickSpeed, sorry no pics on abs reshaping, was long time ago. Abs is one of the easier plastics to work with, can heat with heat guns or even a propane torch. Recently bought another 4 by 8 sheet of 1/8" for a little over $40. used solvent based abs pipe glue from Lowes.
Roddoors, a streetrod company sells abs products & should still have how to videos.

[SickSpeedMonte]

I LOVE the sandblaster!! This picture makes it look easy, but the pitting was very bad on the battery tray and it took a while.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/e467ff6e-1.jpg

Here is where i got into the support while drilling the spot welds out. I wish i would have ground them all like i did by the kick panel.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/c629090f-1.jpg

And here is after i welded the holes shut
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/dea96166-1.jpg

I tack welded a long scrap of sheet metal in the frame rail to protect the fuel line.

I also got the floor fitted very well and it should go in tomorrow. I have to add one small piece of metal to fill a gap so I'll do that and then trim it before starting to weld in the floor pan.

[SickSpeedMonte]

Well today so far has been one step forward two steps back. I knew the rocker had a little rust in it here, but i didnt know how far it went...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/e8304385-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/58ba0a50-1.jpg

Primed the support underneith with cold galvanizing compound.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/c8aae9b7-1.jpg

Tried to make it one piece at first

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/cf00768f-1.jpg

Ended up cutting it in half

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/8114c8bf-1.jpg

I also had to add a little to the pan where i cut it too short. I'll trim this down after i make a new scribe.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/371ca879-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/f1922235-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/2f053cc4-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/8525b5fc-1.jpg

I was really hoping to have the floor in today :(

[howehot]

It must be a Monte Carlo thing. One small step forward and two big steps back. I've been doing this for 5 months. Keep up the great work and you'll succeed.

[CruizinKev]

NICE! good work Bernie!! :twothumbs

[SickSpeedMonte]

Thanks guys. Got the rocker finished today and now im about to start on the floor. I need to drill for the plug welds and trim that one spot i welded on first. I have a buddy coming over too so maybe we'll make good progress.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/2ba4847e-1.jpg

I really surprised myself at how well i got the patch to fit before I started welding it in.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/703cc2aa-1.jpg

[SickSpeedMonte]

Started welding in the pan last night. It's fitting very well, there is just one gap which you can see in the picture that will need a little piece fittid in to bridge the gap. Most of the gap for the butt weld is very close to the size of the .023 wire.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/0be95a96-1.jpg

[CruizinKev]

:twothumbs :twothumbs :twothumbs

[ryeguy2006a]

Looks really good. I had an '87 SS and I miss it sometimes. Especially when I see builds like this.

[SickSpeedMonte]

Do you guys reccomend trying to replicate what the factory has here with these spot welds, or do you think i should cut out the whole seam and butt weld in a strip?

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/887c4fbd-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/eebebf27-1.jpg

[howehot]

Now the time to go for that Schwartz Performance chassis. When you tub it you'll cut some of that out.

Dan

[SickSpeedMonte]

haha, don't think I haven't considered relocating those inners!

[SickSpeedMonte]

Built a set of those stands with wood that I had laying around...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/42911931-1.jpg

Hopefully this will make things a little easier.

I scraped off a little more seam sealer and found this...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/c794a73d-1.jpg

I've been reading up on mini-tubbing and I think I'm going to go for it. Do you have any more detailed pictures of how you did your's, Dan? I have seen it done another way where you cut part of the trunk pan with the tub and move that inboard too, as well as the back seat bracing. I might leave the brace attached and drill the spot welds to get the inner wheel well out so I can fix this rust at the same time, and then I guess cut back the trunk pan and bend it down to give me a flange to spot weld to.

[Samckitt]

I'm gonna make some of those wood stands too. How long did you cut the wood?

[howehot]

I move my tubs in a total of 3". I cut the tub 1" from the flang and 1" into the trunk floor with a sawsall and an airsaw. With your rust you will probably cut the spot welds. I then scribed a line 3" in on the trunk floor and cut that out. Welded the tub back to the trunk floor. Then I cut a 4" piece of 20 gauge steel and filled in the gap. This gave me a 1/2" overlap on each side. The seat brace I just clearance until I had romm for the tub then fabbed metal back in.

The trunk hinge I cut the tub to clear it and then shape a piece of steel and weld it to the bottom side. Weld some bracing from the hinge back to the tub for support. Make sure you undo the torsion springs and weld in some bracing before you do any cutting.

I had some idea what I wanted to dowhen I started. I stuck with it and it all worked out. Hope this gives you some ideas. If I can do it anyone can. I've been in over my head this whole build. It's all coming together and should be on the road next week.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/DSCF36271-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/DSCF3629-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/DSCF3631-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/DSCF3635-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/DSCF3650-1.jpg

[carguykeith]

Man that's great work and I'm not knocking it, but it's not really necessary in my opinion. I narrowed my frame over an inch on each side and just had to hammer the inner fender to get the same amount of clearance as the frame notch.

[howehot]

Man that's great work and I'm not knocking it, but it's not really necessary in my opinion. I narrowed my frame over an inch on each side and just had to hammer the inner fender to get the same amount of clearance as the frame notch.

I can believe that. I could go 1-1 1/2" more on the tubs before I hit the rails on this chassis. As it is I have plenty of clearance for the 335/30/18 on 12" wide wheels.

[SickSpeedMonte]

I'm not planning on just notching the frame, so I'm going to section it.

[SickSpeedMonte]

The body mouts are in terrible shape... so off comes the body

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/07/3e3fef9b-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/07/baf65479-1.jpg

6/12 body mount locations look like this...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/07/649d02ba-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/07/632e93d1-1.jpg

The section of trunk pan here is rusted on the underside, and the seam is pretty rotten, so it's going in the trash bin.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/07/16021184-1.jpg

The sawzall here was only used to get at the trunk hinge brace because the angle grinder couldn't get in there.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/07/8116acbd-1.jpg

Here is where I cut what I'm keeping from what I'm replacing.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/07/db44a62c-1.jpg

And here is the patch for the wheel well

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/07/0bb2fad8-1.jpg

The wheel well ready to go back in. The discolored spots are from where I had to shrink a couple of warps out of the metal.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/07/2c67a496-1.jpg

I've learned a few lessons along the way, hopefully the other side will go a little quicker because this has been very slow going...

[howehot]

Watching this Monte over the years I never thought there was rust like that in it. At this point I don't believe you will drive it this year. Your effort will be rewarded in the end.

[CruizinKev]

good work Bernie!!!

[HELLCAMINO]

Wow.....and to think I just saw you last fall at Hershey Park Autocrossing that MC with no dash in it and miss matched wheels?

[SickSpeedMonte]

Watching this Monte over the years I never thought there was rust like that in it. At this point I don't believe you will drive it this year. Your effort will be rewarded in the end.

Neither do I Dave, I was hoping to have it ready for next spring.

Thanks Kevin!


Wow.....and to think I just saw you last fall at Hershey Park Autocrossing that MC with no dash in it and miss matched wheels?

haha, hey man good to see you on here! Just imagine how much better it will handle with 6 more functioning body mounts, body braces without stress cracks and another 2 inches of rubber out back and ~+1.6 up front!

[SicMonte]

Neither do I Dave, I was hoping to have it ready for next spring.

Thanks Kevin!



haha, hey man good to see you on here! Just imagine how much better it will handle with 6 more functioning body mounts, body braces without stress cracks and another 2 inches of rubber out back and ~+1.6 up front!

i missed something......are you going with new wheels or widening the ones you have? What tires do you plan to run?

[HELLCAMINO]

haha, hey man good to see you on here! Just imagine how much better it will handle with 6 more functioning body mounts, body braces without stress cracks and another 2 inches of rubber out back and ~+1.6 up front!

Yeah, I've been on here......just don't have time to post much.
I am in the process of a front end rebuild since I wrecked mine a few weeks ago.

[SickSpeedMonte]

Neither do I Dave, I was hoping to have it ready for next spring.

Thanks Kevin!



haha, hey man good to see you on here! Just imagine how much better it will handle with 6 more functioning body mounts, body braces without stress cracks and another 2 inches of rubber out back and ~+1.6 up front!

i missed something......are you going with new wheels or widening the ones you have? What tires do you plan to run?

Yes i am planning on widening the wheels as long as my brakes fit in the fronts. I want to run 335's in the rear and 275's in the front.

[SicMonte]

I want the same tire set up. Let's do it!!!!!!

[SickSpeedMonte]

Had an idea the other day and this really works well.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/07/901ae2b8-1.jpg

I bent a flange into this piece to weld to the wheel well. This is a test fit before i made the final trim.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/07/07b3c24d-1.jpg

Once i had it fitting well in the car, I put a few tacks in it and pulled it out to hammer and dolley the seam as I welded it together. This is where its at now.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/07/bbbaa01b-1.jpg

And this is the piece of the seam that had a little rust starting inside. I am going to sandblast it a little tomorrow to get the last of it. It looks like it will fit pretty well.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/07/f593a6ea-1.jpg

In hindsight, the big piece with the ribs shouldnt have been cut out, but I originally planned to section the floor here for the minitub. The section with the seam could have stayed on too if I had seen the rust in it before cutting the big tub/floor section out. The other side should go smoother knowing what I know now.

Here it is all welded up. Workiing on the strip in the wheel well tonight.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/07/b7672a49-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/07/a697cd82-1.jpg

[CruizinKev]

very nice looks great! good work! :twothumbs

[SickSpeedMonte]

Thanks Kevin :)

[chumscustoms]

awesome car. i have followed it for many years

[SickSpeedMonte]

Thanks!

One down, one to go! The rest of the work on the driver's side there is rust repair (and a little grinding, I need to find a use for metal dust!).

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/07/957ef6bf-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/07/94fc6b36-1.jpg

I'm also going to recreate the function of the little brace that connects the trunk hinge housing to the wheel well, but I'm going to do it on the inboard sides.

[howehot]

Looking good.

[mc84_zz4]

Nice progress Bernie! I'm taking notes, so please keep the pics rolling.
:cheers:

[CruizinKev]

looks great so far! :twothumbs :yeah:

[SickSpeedMonte]

Been working on the other side as well as finishing up the rust repair on the driver's side.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/98be129c-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/6e2cb576-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/D41C2F73B0CF460B93A2E4AB393A617567800000-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/CAA8963112C54FA183236AD02DA8C13167800000-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/0516A44549BC4C53A3CFB4E5E83BCC1447520000-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/9A73B558EF6B49D39E3D16CDEE7DA07C53300000-1.jpg

And because I'm a giant nerd, I created a matlab script that simulates a double wishbone suspension. You put in the hard points and the arm dimensions, and it gives you the camber curve, caster curve, and roll center locations throughout the travel range. I also added the tie rod to calculate bump steer, and plan to work on some code to optimize the tie-rod mounting locations and length.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/DoubleWishboneSim-1.jpg

[SickSpeedMonte]

Had to cap off the #6 body mounts because of the new shape of the wheel well.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/01/E8E3ACC3F4C743B1B191840602A6045496490000-1.jpg

All welded up

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/01/C2181FF7435A4101A084B83ADB2DD39D23050000-1.jpg

Capped off the other body mount too

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/01/7E5D8C0D9FBD44DEB4B9CE0BDE1F681921950000-1.jpg

This panel was rusty on both sides, so I had to replace this side too.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/01/57ACDC250C07436688EABF28C885D98121950000-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/01/9AA8E2D6C9244FAD95F04AC59598CB3B33150000-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/01/91AC40712EA64896894390AFCB6D5A4D33150000-1.jpg

Here is the washer size that I ordered from Fastenal. These guys are expensive (~$50 for 16)... I wish I would have asked the price before I ordered more than I needed.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/01/549C5297968440F4AD2FEC2F5848FCB675150000-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/01/0E68FFF1CDC14C25BF4CD848A091900D75150000-1.jpg

[howehot]

Great work. Glad to see an update.

[orbit]

Great project! I love the color of your car. Keep that hood too. Looks great on it.

[SickSpeedMonte]

Here is the spare tire block off panel that I built.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/01/6E5270FD73914567B38A7926F0E5ADD110420000-1.jpg

[SickSpeedMonte]

Moved on to frame repair. I got the frame lined up under the body with a location hole at the #2 mount on the driver's side, and then I used an original body mount/frame hole that were both in good shape and un-repaired towards the rear of the frame. Then I used a plumb bob to locate where to weld washers in the frame at the rusted out spots.

#6 on the passenger side

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/03/7B455D5742214AB0A04012B0CB6FCA2A11637000-1.jpg

I used a jig saw with a metal blade to make radial cuts first. This was done because the jig saw cannot turn tightly enough without knocking them out one section at a time.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/03/D68A44FBE0C045B8ABBC65A12302A3A011637000-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/03/6979B35746EB40E284A6124FED118DC711637000-1.jpg

There was a very thin spot on the side of the frame rail as well.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/03/699D3332FF2546AFAC8C604CE7013DED11637000-1.jpg

So I cut it out.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/03/EE3574ADB71241DEBB38044602CF88DD11637000-1.jpg

The hole was filed until the washer fit.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/03/2A397F22D76A495CA0B81FCCA0CF451F11637000-1.jpg

I then used the bench grinder with a coarse wheel to chamfer the edges to promote weld penetration. I used a medium wheel to knock the coating off.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/03/7F34F2EB061B4D84AA50D92E4E30219B11637000-1.jpg

The frame was prepped with a flapper wheel. Here you can see that there is a bit of an angle where the frame jogs upward around the hole for the washer. If I had thought of it, I would have not chamfered the washer around this area to close up that gap some.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/03/9775B799508D41729FC0E8A0C5E58EC711637000-1.jpg

Held with a magnet and tacked in place.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/03/300BB2D6974E41018E52EE563437A6F411637000-1.jpg

Fully welded. Not the prettiest weld in the world... unfortunately there's no easy way to clean the inside of the frame rail, and so the weld gets contaminated. I did one pass to burn off any impurities, and a second pass to get rid of any pores in the weld. This seemed to work pretty well, as there were no pores while grinding the welds down. The angled part of the frame was welded to the washer by making a few passes on just the washer to build it up before welding it to the frame material.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/03/B77FBA63FEAF471ABAC1D5B121D5AD9B11637000-1.jpg

Then I dressed the weld.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/03/4F5F6984354A42A29DEA5D4AE135824C11637000-1.jpg

Now to fill in where the thin spot was cut out. First I made a template.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/03/C88C1216CEE94E58BEAB76739CBD37D611637000-1.jpg

Then I cut the pattern out of a piece of 1/8" bar stock that I had laying around.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/03/8DA7AA5FA8E84FD4BD70A2E31E689B2811637000-1.jpg

Tacked in and then I used a hammer to shape it a little closer.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/03/C02F8CD31CD547218E121B4AE3E575BE11637000-1.jpg

All finished!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/03/827AF0B234A24D7B87C5070DC092BAD311637000-1.jpg

[Gregersen46]

Really cool project. I like this body style. Good luck and can't to see it done.

[carguykeith]

Looking good. Man am I glad I didn't have to deal with rust on the frame...

[ryeguy2006a]

Great work on the rust repair!!

[CruizinKev]

good work so far Bernie! :twothumbs

[72BBSwinger]

The chamfer on the washer has the bonus of more penetration for welding because of the slight "fillet" it provides.

[Pyrofenix]

Seeing all of this makes me jealous - I really need to learn to weld!

[SickSpeedMonte]

Thanks guys,

The frame holes are all fixed up. I'm just going to wire wheel the frame and prime/rattle can it and put the car back together for the season. I'll get another frame to mess with so I can still drive the car in the mean time.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/04/7E4DE821F7A74367875C8B019AAE3B6155160000-1.jpg

The body mounts on the body side are done too. Here is a shot before I dressed the weld and welded a piece on that little triangle...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/04/498CC34B93954ED883FDC8F9881A518911416000-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/04/F2FE12D0A2424DD1A5A45404262953BB67990000-1.jpg

Last frame hole welded up. 7 out of 14 total had to be repaired.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/04/F75F20BA8FE34CE4A3408D837D46128211416000-1.jpg

[CruizinKev]

good work! :twothumbs

[SickSpeedMonte]

What a miserable two days lol. Tried aircraft stripper on the underside which didnt work very well. It pulled up paint in a few spots but it didnt do anything on the majority. So I figured if that wont get it off, the paint can stay there, its done its job for the last 28 years and its still putting up a fight soi t can stay. Then I broke out my $30 hand held syphon sandblaster and went through almost an entire big bad of black beauty fine abraisive. The main target areas were the driver's rocker area where the frame goes and the #4 body mount area. There was a little scale in these areas but nothing rotted out. I also tried to hit the entire underside to give the POR15 something to bite. I will be using their Marine Clean, Prep and Ready, and then black chassis coat.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/22F3DE22C00D44AE9735587EE79E5D9618095000-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/058CBEE04D6648618FB62CC54594E9D218095000-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/8C7F4A57498F4D35BF82E366C149A4FF18095000-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/13497CCB86554109B36E6E9CE4AC7C9818095000-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/BC86756C12274E6F8FD3F18A1E5BF90618095000-1.jpg

I also got a new brake line from the prop to the diff bent up and flared and new fuel supply/return lines bent up.

I started on the inner mounts for the bucket seats last night. 14ga is harder to bend that I was expecting... I think I'll just make the other 3 in pieces and weld them together.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/E0853999AB6F466BBC8EE852385E3C9218659000-1.jpg (http://s20.photobucket.com/user/badaSSMonte85/media/E0853999-AB6F-466B-BC8E-E852385E3C92-18659-000013EDAB844D60_zps5149aed1.jpg.html)

[SickSpeedMonte]

Started on the inner bucket seat mounts. This car was a bench seat car originally.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/3F0897D6940E41748F9E3442DBC6C0F919220000-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/E0853999AB6F466BBC8EE852385E3C9218659000-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/CE1E8B8A7C004CD6AE072A3BF81F412619220000-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/31474B133A6B4BD69142BC9954C9AF3919220000-1.jpg

This 14ga was too thick to bend easily, so I just welded the rear mount of out flat sections and saved some time.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/FB90FD59937C4BFEA96D3320D487F33E19220000-1.jpg

[csouth]

Nice work over there. Love to see guys being creative with solutions :twothumbs

[daveybtv]

Cool stuff, nice work!

[SickSpeedMonte]

Thanks guys :)

[SickSpeedMonte]

First coat of POR15 applied to the floors.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/AD519E5835184E35BDE34B18EB1DC50823812000-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/92EEC8E5BA2640D292C90C6654E9943223812000-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/170D7B01D7134C9FBE729CFE0277F71623812000-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/0B6826CEFDDC465EAB63EB91115792D923871000-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/AD06887FAB6C45DDB68A4FBBF18CE71523871000-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/F553444A3745494785FEEFEE87B5A19A23871000-1.jpg

[howehot]

Looks good

[RusselLee]

Hi guys, I joined this site...just to follow this build! I too have a Monte Carlo SS and will be doing this, this coming winter.

Any new updates? It's been a couple months...come on, you need to throw us a bone! Awesome work, by the way. Can't wait to see the end-results!

[THEIROCMAN]

Hey man, I joined this site today after I googled Monte Carlo SS. I actually have a pic of your car downloaded on my computer because it is sweet!. I am looking for a SS myself. I have always wanted one. Just a few years ago I found my IROC-Z I always wanted. I just got it painted a year ago and family first, then the car, but I wanted to say you have done a great job on your ride. It is good to see cars kept alive rather then spending thousands on some new car. Take care man and will be looking for more on that sweet ride.

[LoRollinLS]

Any updates?

[SickSpeedMonte]

I'm way behind on this thread...

=======
5/31/13

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/07/C8A294926384427DBD22EF64B91D8AC418480000-1.jpg

I guess technically im body dropped now lol.

The body went back on, but not without a fight. What I wouldnt do for a lift an ld a set of those roller skate things. The hardest part was dropping it back down, everything lined up no problem.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/07/68A7F7DD050C4E52962840FA6AAE01C118480000-1.jpg

Heres the extra room from the minitub. Ill modify a different frame while I drive the car.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/07/369C2CC7803C47308452DD89A86A44C618480000-1.jpg

======
6/24/13
She's back on the road!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/07/E2502141A00E4BFAB2E7753666F246D211655000-1.jpg (http://s20.photobucket.com/user/badaSSMonte85/media/E2502141-A00E-4BFA-B2E7-753666F246D2-11655-00000DC662E0BC06_zps413faf40.jpg.html)

Drove it in to work a few times. I'm almost positive that the floor is touching the transmission, so that will take some doing to fix. Other than that, no real issues to speak of.

Feels so good to drive it again!!! :D

======
7/12/13

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/07/201307070036_zps9e377c91-1.jpg (http://s20.photobucket.com/user/badaSSMonte85/media/201307070036_zps9e377c91.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/07/201307070037_zps3c43b058-1.jpg (http://s20.photobucket.com/user/badaSSMonte85/media/201307070037_zps3c43b058.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/07/201307070032_zpsbffbcf99-1.jpg (http://s20.photobucket.com/user/badaSSMonte85/media/201307070032_zpsbffbcf99.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/07/201307070031_zps87181b2e-1.jpg (http://s20.photobucket.com/user/badaSSMonte85/media/201307070031_zps87181b2e.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/07/201307070030_zpsccc2c3f9-1.jpg (http://s20.photobucket.com/user/badaSSMonte85/media/201307070030_zpsccc2c3f9.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/07/201307070021_zpsbee5de56-1.jpg (http://s20.photobucket.com/user/badaSSMonte85/media/201307070021_zpsbee5de56.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/07/201307070020_zpsf15ed729-1.jpg (http://s20.photobucket.com/user/badaSSMonte85/media/201307070020_zpsf15ed729.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/07/201307070019_zpse48a8cc8-1.jpg (http://s20.photobucket.com/user/badaSSMonte85/media/201307070019_zpse48a8cc8.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/07/201307070018_zps09ae959d-1.jpg (http://s20.photobucket.com/user/badaSSMonte85/media/201307070018_zps09ae959d.jpg.html)

Thanks to Doug Austin at www.dougaustinphoto.com for the great pictures! If you eer race a susquehannah region race, check him out.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M8RLoOeivi0

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LQNWSBVdQ70

As you can see... the springs are WAYYYY too soft. Even with the Helwig bar up front (thanks Doug!), it still rolls like a farm truck. I'll switch to some stiffer springs, and I really need to get the front geometry under control... more about that in a bit.

[SickSpeedMonte]

12/1/13

I purchased this from a local circle track racer.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/07/185382ABBB1B4921A049B29530242127_zpsbamh-1.jpg (http://s20.photobucket.com/user/badaSSMonte85/media/185382AB-BB1B-4921-A049-B29530242127_zpsbamhe3wl.jpg.html)

This will get the modifications for the rear mini-tub, 3-link converison, and the front suspension/steering geometry revisions. It will also get some torsoinal stiffness modifications and maybe try to add some room for front tire clearance.

I got this for a clutch pedal kit and some cash.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/07/2D7E8A88EC5A4CE4AD480EB0F957C205_zpsprrr-1.jpg (http://s20.photobucket.com/user/badaSSMonte85/media/2D7E8A88-EC5A-4CE4-AD48-0EB0F957C205_zpsprrro4zx.jpg.html)

Baffled for injection

=====
5/24/14
So I finally ordered a clutch to fix the chatter in the ZF. The stock Corvette clutch does not have a sprung hub because the flywheel is a dual mass (2 peice) flywheel. I couldn't use that flywheel because it's for a 1 piece rear main and I have a 2 piece. So I have a 1-piece flywheel with a non-sprung hub clutch disc. It's noisy. Luckily, there are clutches that remedy this because the dual mass flywheel turned out to be no so great for the Vette guys anyway.

The old disc: (This and the flywheel pic below are from the blue tag swap a couple years ago.)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/07/PICT0098JPG-1.jpg

The one that arrived this morning :) If you look closely, you can see the springs going around the center hub. This is a dual-friction clutch, so it's ceramic on one side and metallic on the other. The guy at Carolina Clutch said it should be able to handle the power I plan on making and still be streetable.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/07/B9BF4DE9F4AC4FA693D38C97DA81CEBC_zpsqmxd-1.jpg (http://s20.photobucket.com/user/badaSSMonte85/media/B9BF4DE9-F4AC-4FA6-93D3-8C97DA81CEBC_zpsqmxdwfvv.jpg.html)

I have a three day weekend. I plan to build a couple more clutch kits tomorrow and then Monday pull the trans out. I need to take the flywheel down to Baltimore to get balanced. I have a high RPM vibration and I have replaced the harmonic damper twice to no avail. I wonder if this flywheel might have been on an externally balanced motor before mine... so I was going to take it to get balanced next week. I don't see any holes or counterweights in the picture... I'll have a closer look when I pull it out. I don't know what else could be causing the vibrations whether the clutch is depressed or not.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/07/PICT0099JPG-1.jpg

=======
6/16/14

Lining up the drivetrain with a laser level.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/07/ED9A0DDC73F9459A90C0E9D98CC7E7BA_zpsg1rm-1.jpg (http://s20.photobucket.com/user/badaSSMonte85/media/ED9A0DDC-73F9-459A-90C0-E9D98CC7E7BA_zpsg1rm0ied.jpg.html)

And I built a new tunnel panel so that the trans clears.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/07/F04FC0F590794F4B8D6022F6E9EF2BFA_zpsbz6h-1.jpg (http://s20.photobucket.com/user/badaSSMonte85/media/F04FC0F5-9079-4F4B-8D60-22F6E9EF2BFA_zpsbz6hbdqr.jpg.html)

The flywheel was surfaced and balanced. I installed it and the clutch, cut up my old "master fabricated" crossmember and welded it back together so that it actually can be removed from the vehicle, and painted that and the floor. The trans can go back in now and then the test drive!

=======
6/23/14

The new clutch is amazing. It makes such a difference, I don't know why I didn't do this sooner. The "grinding" sound (it was actually just gear chatter on the gears that weren't engaged by the dogs) is almost completely gone. The chatter that remains is at a much lower RPM. It's low enough that you shouldn't be lugging the engine down that far anyway. The sprung hub lowered the system's stiffness and therefore lowered the resonant frequency to an RPM below the useable range.

It shifts smoother, it doesn't buck nearly as bad when you are creeping along, and because the trans isn't touching the floor anymore, it's about half as noisy in the car now. You can now hold a conversation instead of wearing ear plugs. The crossmember can now be removed from the car MUCH easier since I re-did it, and the trans sits a bit higher in relation to the frame so it's no longer the lowest point. I had to remove my driveshaft loop though because the yoke would hit it on big bumps due to the trans mount compliance. I need lower the tail of the trans a bit I guess, but I'm enjoying driving it for now.

=======
7/7/14

Well she was smoking out the left exhaust and I had found some water in the pipe when I took it apart for the trans work... so I figured I blew a head gasket when it overheated (my stupid fault... forgot to turn the fans on.) So I got a head gasket kit and pulled the head, but I don't see anything obvious. The steel rings around each cylinder seem to be fine. There was a bit of dissintigration around the water jacket area of the gasket, but if it's not making it into the cylinder, I don't see how that would have caused the problem. The intake gasket was pushed off b/w 1&3, but that shouldn't cause it to smoke... I guess I'll see if it still smokes when I put it all back together. I just need to find a good way to chase the threads in the block. I read that you shouldn't use a cutting die.

[SickSpeedMonte]

7/9/14
I painted the intake with high temp aluminum and the thermostat housing with high temp black and clear and cleaned up the carb and the alternator. I got the head on and torqued and the intake, carb, 'stat housing, header, and power steering pump installed. It was midnight by then and I had to call it. Next will be the distributor, button up the exhaust at the collector, new plugs, re-paint my air filter housing with a new filter, change the oil and add coolant. I'll probably pull the water pump and paint that too.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/07/E26FB42A106B46A1ACEE34443B17EFEA_zpsbnzl-1.jpg (http://s20.photobucket.com/user/badaSSMonte85/media/E26FB42A-106B-46A1-ACEE-34443B17EFEA_zpsbnzlu6ah.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/07/806992B33D1D434B8D8750F95417B7D1_zpstjqz-1.jpg (http://s20.photobucket.com/user/badaSSMonte85/media/806992B3-3D1D-434B-8D87-50F95417B7D1_zpstjqzuyun.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/07/331D1298D9EE403497771ECE25D6214E_zpsl0yc-1.jpg (http://s20.photobucket.com/user/badaSSMonte85/media/331D1298-D9EE-4034-9777-1ECE25D6214E_zpsl0yc4zdg.jpg.html)

=======
7/18/14

I looked into sound and heat insulation and was floored by the prices... $300 shipped for all of the decent brands to do it "right". I kept digging around and found someone recommended this stuff...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/07/241F5DDC52804D5B9D13FBAC587257AF_zpsier7-1.jpg (http://s20.photobucket.com/user/badaSSMonte85/media/241F5DDC-5280-4D5B-9D13-FBAC587257AF_zpsier7hzrr.jpg.html)

$35 for 40 square feet which is enough to do the floor and trunk. Its a closed-cell foam with foil, adhesive-backed.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/07/CBD60AFAC0A3410A899701647936170E_zpsji0o-1.jpg (http://s20.photobucket.com/user/badaSSMonte85/media/CBD60AFA-C0A3-410A-8997-01647936170E_zpsji0oh7w4.jpg.html)

I can actually tell a difference in the noise. It cut down the exhaust drone at a certain RPM and i can hear new exhaust leaks lol. I guess I cant really tell if the heat was cut down, but the insulation feels cooler than the adjacent sheet metal and I was chilly the whole way to work today. It has an R value of 3, which is impressive for 1/8" material IMO.

I also have some sound insulation from a local body supply store. It looks like bubble wrap with foil on either side. I need some spray adhesive to put that down. Then I'll put down the new jute and carpet.

=======
7/21/14

I had another good weekend on the car! I drove it to work a couple of times this week, so I had amassed a list of annoying things that I wanted to fix. Back up into the air the car went on my wooden stands.

-I greased the trunk latch with some white lithium grease to stop the squeek.
-I dropped the driver's side header to fix one spot on the floor where the colllector touched. Re-painted with POR
-Fixed an exhaust leak at the #7 header primary when I put it back on.
-Re-torqued the intake bolts. I had a little oil near the #5 runner that I think might have been coming through the bolt??
-I put a rubber boot on the clutch master cylinder pushrod to seal it from the engine bay. My master cylinder relocation bracket offsets the master from the firewall, leaving a path for air to get in.
-POR15'd a small surface rust spot on the inside of the quarter that I had been putting off.
-Finished seam sealing the inside of the car and trunk. Installed the big oblong drain plugs in the rear floors and trunk and seam sealed those.
-Added some more heat insulation.
-Made a template up for a shifter surround that will allow me to mount a lower rubber shifter boot. Once I make and install that, the inside of the car will be completely sealed from the outside, other than the factory HVAC system.
-Learned how to adjust the choke (thanks youtube!) and got it set. It was WAY too tight before, making the throttle feel like it was hung up when you got into the secondaries.
-Removed, disassembled, cleaned, reassembled, and reinstalled the starter with a heat shield that I bent up and painted with the high-temp aluminum paint. I think that might have fixed my hot-start issue but I'm not 100% sure. I took it for a 15-20 minute drive, let it heat soak for about a minute, and it fired right back up.
-Put some RTV on my plug wire holders where the plastic holder slips over the metal bracket on the valve cover bolt.
-Fixed an alignment issue with the power steering pump that would flip the V-belt inside out and then throw it. I put a straight edge on the crank and the PS pulley and found that it was not straight. The bracket that went from the front of the block to the front header bolt needed to be moved forward at the header side to straighten it out.

I have some sound insulation to install, then the jute and carpeting. The car is getting more and more comfortable to drive, and I'm really wanting to drive it every time the weather is nice. It's really nice getting back to basics with this car and being able to really enjoy it. Once I can work out the handling and steering shortcomings, you won't be able to keep me out of this thing.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/07/F61D1F1B595B41259B536D35ED4A200E_zps98mx-1.jpg (http://s20.photobucket.com/user/badaSSMonte85/media/F61D1F1B-595B-4125-9B53-6D35ED4A200E_zps98mxkdrn.jpg.html)

(There's a hose clamp on the top now.)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/07/3DEC478C7A8A49A5AD2144B9D5450544_zpsijuf-1.jpg (http://s20.photobucket.com/user/badaSSMonte85/media/3DEC478C-7A8A-49A5-AD21-44B9D5450544_zpsijufutbm.jpg.html)

(And I relized after posting this picture that the cotter pin is missing from the brake pushrod EEEK!)

[SSLance]

Excellent work Bernie!!! Keep it up.... Get that thing daily driveable and you'll have even more fun with it.

[Qua-Hoon!]

Any updates? I just got my Dads' 84 Monte Carlo LS, looking for as much info as I can get. You car looks great so far. Any new pics of the interior? I too feel the stock look dated. I really feel like it's the worst thing about the cars look. If I can change the dash look, I'd be a lot happier.