Meet "LTx Lark" '65 Buick Skylark Sedan, trying to PT.

[NoMoneyZ]

Thought I would start a thread and let everyone know about my project. Its a 65 Buick Skylark sedan. Originally a 300ci and 2 speed column shift. Plans for it are a LT1 and 4l60E. I already have the engine and trans and wiring. I bought a totaled 94 trans am and took everything I needed out of it. I also bought an AAW kit for the interior to do away with the glass fuses and old wiring.

Little back story on the car. It was my older brothers first car back in 2002. He saw it in the parking lot of a 99 cent store and waited for the guy to come out since none of us had cell phones back then. Car ran and body was clean with a decent respray. Paid 1k for it and took it home. I always wanted the car since day one, thought it was so cool. Then he put spacers in the rear springs to jack it up a bit and threw on son 14x10 cragar SS in the rear with 14x7 up front. Had a mean look to it. Next he did a Flowmaster 40 series dumped at the axle. Now it sounded and looked mean. Never forget getting rides home from school and dropped off at homecoming with my date in it. Time went on and the car started to leak more and more from everywhere. Carb needed work and the suspension was shot. Not to mention the rust that started to develop under the rear glass. He still drove it everywhere until one day coming around a corner from a stop some kids jumped in the middle of the road and he swerved right into a jeeps front pushbar. Smashed the driver fender real good and bent the bumper up, messed up all the grill and headlight stuff on the driver side also. Nobody was hurt, except my brothers heart when he got out and looked at the car. Everything was handled outside of insurance since the only damage was to the skylark. So, the car came home and sat. Brother bought a new car and never did mess with the skylark again.

Fastforward a couple years and my brother had a baby and needed work bad. There was no work for him in southern cali and he did what he had to and moved him and his family out of state to the other side of the country. He knew he couldn't take the car with him and even if he did, it would just sit since he couldn't afford to do anything to it. Before he left, he took me aside and said that he knew how much I always wanted the Skylark and that he knows I have what it takes to do what he never could with it and handed me the keys and the title.

I dove right in and got it running under it's own power again and just kept it going to drive around the block when I had a few min. Couldn't register it as it was still wrecked. After a while I decided to rebuild the carb and when that came off I also pulled the intake manifold. Well it just snowballed from there; because the intake manifold had about half the ports completely blocked off with carbon buildup, I pulled the heads. Headgaskets were leaking. Pulled the engine and trans, trans was puking. Engine went to a couple places for estimates and came back home after deciding to just store it since I wasn't too fond of $2500 engine rebuild being quality at all and 210fwhp is pretty lame.

The search then began for a fender and front end parts. Found a fender locally after some years of searching, clean, no rot, no bondo. Got all the front trim pieces off the Buick forum for an awesome deal. Was moving along nicely. Then stopped moving at all. I didn't know what I wanted to do with the car, what engine I wanted, or any real goal. I had some thinking time as money wasn't really rolling in and I wanted to get out of my parents house.

I used this down time to save up money for a house and started looking for a place I could call my own and most importantly a garage. Looked for about 8 months and finally found a great deal on a house I liked. Took almost 6months to get the deal done but finally had it. Moved everything over and got to work. That brings us up to date for the most part. The last two years is where most of the pics are from so let's get started.

I finally decided on a plan. LTx/h/c built 4l60e 3200 stall/ built BOP 8.2 posi and 3.90s. Adjustable front and rear suspensions pieces. 18x9 all around with 275's. C5/ls1 front and rear brakes. Vintage air. GTO seats.

click pics to make bigger.

Drivetrain donor, was smashed into a curb in the rear end. 76k on it and did burnouts like a champ still.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/th_0228091632b-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/albums/l193/darkstar02496/Formula/?action=view&current=0228091632b.jpg)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/th_Untitled-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/albums/l193/darkstar02496/Formula/?action=view&current=Untitled.jpg)

Still looking decent here.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/th_Vacation121-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/albums/l193/darkstar02496/Buick/?action=view&current=Vacation121.jpg)

Then this
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/th_Vacation154-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/albums/l193/darkstar02496/Buick/?action=view&current=Vacation154.jpg)

And this
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/th_Vacation160-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/albums/l193/darkstar02496/Buick/?action=view&current=Vacation160.jpg)

But now
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/th_P1210094-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/albums/l193/darkstar02496/Buick/?action=view&current=P1210094.jpg)

Tearing down that old 300
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/th_Vacation158-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/albums/l193/darkstar02496/Buick/?action=view&current=Vacation158.jpg)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/th_P1210087-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/albums/l193/darkstar02496/Buick/?action=view&current=P1210087.jpg)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/th_P1210083-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/albums/l193/darkstar02496/Buick/?action=view&current=P1210083.jpg)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/th_Vacation159-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/albums/l193/darkstar02496/Buick/?action=view&current=Vacation159.jpg)

Pulling it out
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/th_P1210095-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/albums/l193/darkstar02496/Buick/?action=view&current=P1210095.jpg)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/th_P1210097-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/albums/l193/darkstar02496/Buick/?action=view&current=P1210097.jpg)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/th_P1210098-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/albums/l193/darkstar02496/Buick/?action=view&current=P1210098.jpg)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/th_P1210100-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/albums/l193/darkstar02496/Buick/?action=view&current=P1210100.jpg)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/th_P1210101-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/albums/l193/darkstar02496/Buick/?action=view&current=P1210101.jpg)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/th_P1210108-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/albums/l193/darkstar02496/Buick/?action=view&current=P1210108.jpg)

Mom is always ready to help out.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/th_P1210110-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/albums/l193/darkstar02496/Buick/?action=view&current=P1210110.jpg)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/th_P1210111-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/albums/l193/darkstar02496/Buick/?action=view&current=P1210111.jpg)

Cleaned out the inside and the floors are solid. Going to get the underside blasted when I have the car as a rolling chassis again.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/th_0215091542-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/albums/l193/darkstar02496/Buick/?action=view&current=0215091542.jpg)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/th_0215091542b-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/albums/l193/darkstar02496/Buick/?action=view&current=0215091542b.jpg)

Finally at the new home
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/th_0718101945a-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/albums/l193/darkstar02496/Buick/?action=view&current=0718101945a.jpg)

[NoMoneyZ]

Just a small part of whats been ordered.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/th_0806101802a-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/albums/l193/darkstar02496/Buick/?action=view&current=0806101802a.jpg)

LT1
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/th_SDC10813-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/albums/l193/darkstar02496/?action=view&current=SDC10813.jpg)

Test fitting rear brakes and wheels.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/th_IMAG0197-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/albums/l193/darkstar02496/Buick/?action=view&current=IMAG0197.jpg)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/th_IMAG0198-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/albums/l193/darkstar02496/Buick/?action=view&current=IMAG0198.jpg)

52mm throttle body.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/th_IMAG0015-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/albums/l193/darkstar02496/Buick/?action=view&current=IMAG0015.jpg)

Rear sway bar
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/th_IMAG0185-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/albums/l193/darkstar02496/Buick/?action=view&current=IMAG0185.jpg)

Front Calipers
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/th_IMAG0272-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/albums/l193/darkstar02496/Buick/?action=view&current=IMAG0272.jpg)

Just to see what it looks like. Still need to machine the front hubs to fit the rotor completely.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/th_IMAG0296-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/albums/l193/darkstar02496/Buick/?action=view&current=IMAG0296.jpg)

[NoMoneyZ]

Using 65 Chevelle frame pads and engine mount kit.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/th_IMAG0180-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/albums/l193/darkstar02496/Buick/?action=view&current=IMAG0180.jpg)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/th_IMAG0175-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/albums/l193/darkstar02496/Buick/?action=view&current=IMAG0175.jpg)

Got my rear end rebuild kit, posi unit, and 3.90s
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/th_280867_4492249669420_2110504042_o-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/albums/l193/darkstar02496/Buick/?action=view&current=280867_4492249669420_2110504042_o.jpg)

built stands to keep the body high enough when pulling the frame in and out from under the car.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/th_328414_4411992943052_279440938_o-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/albums/l193/darkstar02496/Buick/?action=view&current=328414_4411992943052_279440938_o.jpg)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/th_411469_4411991383013_1893240977_o-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/albums/l193/darkstar02496/Buick/?action=view&current=411469_4411991383013_1893240977_o.jpg)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/th_621814_4411994503091_941427058_o-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/albums/l193/darkstar02496/Buick/?action=view&current=621814_4411994503091_941427058_o.jpg)

Prepped and painted using POR15. Still need to topcoat it but it's coming along.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/th_280836_4505836649086_813513544_o-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/albums/l193/darkstar02496/Buick/?action=view&current=280836_4505836649086_813513544_o.jpg)

[1360]

Keep'em coming....

[65Skylark]

Ill definitely be watching this thread, I just inherited my dad's 65 Skylark hardtop.

[NoMoneyZ]

Doing the rear end rebuild today and probably over next week. It's my first time doing one so I don't expect it to be right the first try.

[NoMoneyZ]

Have some pics of the rebuild process. It's going slow as I only have time when were not busy at the shop and this is my first time doing a diff. Everything is apart and cleaned. Just need to get with someone to help put it together and shim it correctly.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/IMG_20120919_133628_zps0afe6da1-1.jpg

Pics of the old parts

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/IMG_20120919_133637_zps6f62e2d2-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/IMG_20120919_133643_zps9766b038-1.jpg

Rebuild kit and new carrier.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/IMG_20120919_133648_zpsf276a350-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/IMG_20120919_133656_zps108427e5-1.jpg

[66larkgs]

I am doing a 66 right now. Good luck and stay with it!

[NoMoneyZ]

I've been through your build and it some solid work. I wish I could've went with a 455 Buick but I came across the parts car way too cheap to pass and I know these LT1s pretty well. Maybe the next car will get a big block.

[66larkgs]

Worst part about these old bucks is getting replacement panels.had to hand make everything. what are you running for suspension? I really like the quality of the Ridetech stuff. I had qa1 on it and think the Ridetech is a lot cleaner looking. I can't blame you for running the lt1 , it is what you got. I won't run a 455 just because I really like the nailheads. First motor I ever owned.. Well gd luck with your build and keep posting.

[NoMoneyZ]

Oh ya, it took me three years of searching to find the correct front driver fender in good shape. I need to make some patches for the rear, infront of and behind the wheel well. Also the package tray is no good.
As for suspension, I'm running BMR springs front and rear 1" drop, Jegs upper and lower adjustable rear control arms, spc front upper a-arms with tall upper and lower ball joints, stock front lower a-arms. Unsure on shocks as of now. This is a budget type build and will likely sit in primer and patches for a long time, but I'm doing the best not to skimp on the drivetrain.

[66larkgs]

I did the same thing with the budget and as funds allowed I bought better parts. Good luck and keep posting

[Eric Howell]

Great story and great car. Look forward to seeing much more from your build

[NoMoneyZ]

Things are going to get moving again. Just finished setting up the rear diff yesterday and brought it home. I'll get some pictures up tonight.

[NoMoneyZ]

Sorry for the lack of photos. Been busy after work and it's starting to get dark way too early. This weekend I'm going to try and put the rear end under the frame and see how my wheels fit. Also scored on a set of Brodix Track 1 heads for LT1. They are a little on the large side, but that will give me room to grow later when the engine needs a big build.

[66larkgs]

Glad to hear you got the gears setup in the diff. Once you do one set they are really not hard to due. Parts of my car sat in primer for over 7 years. Just did'nt have the money to pay someone and i didnt have the talent at the time to do body work. With time and lots of late nights these projects do get done. Get one thing done aday and oneday it willbe done..Get it into a roller so we can see some pictures!!!

[Zoomin]

Any updates?

[NoMoneyZ]

Oh man, I am sorry about the lack of update here. I totally forgot I had a thread going on over here. I have moved a bit on the this project. I hope to bring the body down from the stand in a few weeks and start assembling the engine to test fit. I picked up a custom grind Doug Herbert cam and a set of LT1 spec Brodix Track ones. The heads are a little more than what I need at this time but when I go larger cubes I'll make use of the air flow.

Also picked up a set of 17" Firehawk wheels. I got rid of the 18's. I think these will look better and fit better. They still don't clear the caliper enough though. I have no choice but to run an adapter to gain the clearance I need. The Kore3 kit is very picky with wheels, as it moves the caliper beyond the face of the rotor.

I'll let the pics show whats been going on with the project.

There are more that I am missing somewhere. I post pics from home and work sometimes so they get mixed up between computers.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/07/th_3Lb3Nd3H65I75E95F4d32de41b6065a211339-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/user/darkstar02496/media/3Lb3Nd3H65I75E95F4d32de41b6065a211339_zps4fe7ac47. jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/07/th_IMG_0208_zpsefb9d4dc-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/user/darkstar02496/media/Buick/IMG_0208_zpsefb9d4dc.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/07/th_IMG_0207_zpsc01ccc20-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/user/darkstar02496/media/Buick/IMG_0207_zpsc01ccc20.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/07/th_IMG_0206_zpsb056b212-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/user/darkstar02496/media/Buick/IMG_0206_zpsb056b212.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/07/th_IMG_0205_zps18ace1d7-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/user/darkstar02496/media/Buick/IMG_0205_zps18ace1d7.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/07/th_IMG_0135_zps440ddba3-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/user/darkstar02496/media/Buick/IMG_0135_zps440ddba3.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/07/th_IMG_0136_zps1e5a6553-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/user/darkstar02496/media/Buick/IMG_0136_zps1e5a6553.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/07/th_IMG_20130113_143451_zps81681354-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/user/darkstar02496/media/Buick/IMG_20130113_143451_zps81681354.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/07/th_IMG_0155_zps881c6387-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/user/darkstar02496/media/Buick/IMG_0155_zps881c6387.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/07/th_IMG_0156_zps69d5dfb7-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/user/darkstar02496/media/Buick/IMG_0156_zps69d5dfb7.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/th_IMAG0015-1.jpg (http://s96.photobucket.com/user/darkstar02496/media/Buick/IMAG0015.jpg.html)

[66larkgs]

looking good!! glad to hear you are still at it. Had a friend do a similar build with a 67 chevelle and it was a great driver and a fun car to beat up on. any luck with the body panels yet?

[NoMoneyZ]

I have not started the work on the rear panels yet. My attention has been on the underside. I am also picking up another parts car this Saturday. It's a 6 speed trans am. Looks like I get the t56 after all, so I'll be cutting and raising the tunnel during my vacation along with trying to get the body back down on the frame.

[NoMoneyZ]

I'm still here and still doing work. Car is still not driving though, but it's damn close. I had life get in the way and decided to get married and all that stuff, tore a tendon in my shoulder so I was out for a while with that also. Back at it and super motivated to have this running. Car show season is already starting and I want to make a few this year as well as some track days to test the big boats new running gear. Heres some pics of what I have now.

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