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Thread: Your wisdom wanted
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11-14-2004 #1Registered User
- Join Date
- Nov 2004
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- 3
Your wisdom wanted
I am new to this site, and new to car rebuilding/upgrading all together. I have been researching like crazy for the past couple of years, trying to decide if I should even attempt to under take a project like this. You see, I love cars, but have been confined to appreciating them for what they are instead of making them into what they could be. Well, a couple of weeks ago I became committed by buying a 68 Camaro. The VIN tells me it was originally a 6 cylinder, but somewhere along the way it got a 350, and a four speed. Anyway, now I have the base to start from, and the motivation, but lack the knowledge needed. Let me clarify one thing. I am not into drag or track racing. It simply started by my father getting a Dodge Viper for himself a couple of years ago. Ever since then I have wanted more power, and more performance for myself. So, on to my big questions,
1. Has anyone ever tried to drop a Bill Mitchell 632 into a first generation Camaro? I have fallen in love with that motor, and if it can work, I would really like to know how. I understand that this may very well define the term overkill, but I am displacement hungry.
2. With large amounts of power, I understand that the structural integrity of the car is something that needs consideration. I plan on getting a new front subframe, but who makes the best one for my type of application (lots of power, and lots of weight up front)?
3. Then, I noticed that a lot of people use roll cages to strengthen their cars. I don’t want a roll bar. I want to be able to get in and out of the vehicle, and would like to still be able to use the rear seats. What kinds of alternatives are out there, if any?
4. I was thinking that for a transmission I would go with a G-Force T-56. Anyone have any comments about those transmissions?
5. For a clutch, I am more uncertain about what to get. I have been looking at Tilton, Quartermaster, and Centerforce clutches. I am leaning towards the 7.25 diameter carbon/carbon 3 plate clutch from Tilton, but am very open to suggestion.
6. As the driveline needs to be revamped, I was thinking of going with a stage three custom rearend from Currie enterprises. It is a nine inch rear, with choice of gear ratios. Once again, anyone have any thoughts?
7. What about a rear suspension? What can handle drag racing type launches, but won’t quit on me when I push the car hard into corners?
8. In regards to tires, I am very torn between going with something newer looking, like a Goodyear Eagle F1 or a BFG Radial T/A for the classic look. I have also looked at Mickey Thompson tires. For the rear tires, I do plan to use the DSE mini tub kit. What is the general consensus on the best “whole package” tire? (meaning that it will stick well on the launch, hold in the corners, and not wear too quickly)
I think that covers my major questions for now. I know that these questions are all over the place, but I decided to lump then together and throw them in the general discussion area instead of posting multiple threads. Forgive me if this turns into a cluster going in many directions. Also, if there are any other major components I forgot to mention that would be crucial to a build of this magnitude, please feel to bring it to my attention. I welcome all advice/wisdom you all have to share. Thanks,
John
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11-14-2004 #2We've gone round and round on this subject lately: Race car performance on the street. You say that you're not into racing, but then you talk about a 632 in an early camaro, with no cage (not even a bar!), and performing racing type manuevers on the street. What you're talking about is even more dangerous than actually racing the car on a race track!!! You will not have the luxury of professionally prepared racing surfaces, you will be driving in proximety to completely untrained drivers, and no on-sight ambulance.
Besides the glaring safety factor of a cage, there's something else to consider: Chassis flex. With monster torque from a big-inch motor, you'll be twisting the living hell out of ANY car that doesn't have a roll cage! Your doors will never shut right, and your quarter panels (atleast) will never be straight again, if you ever manage to get the thing to launch decently.
I'll say it again: If you're not willing to live with a jungle gym in your car, then you shouldn't be willing to go fast enough to need one.
By the way, welcome to the board!-Matt
Welders: The only people that think a co-worker catching on fire is funny.
11-14-2004 #3re:
"2. With large amounts of power, I understand that the structural integrity of the car is something that needs consideration. I plan on getting a new front subframe, but who makes the best one for my type of application (lots of power, and lots of weight up front)?"Here is the top of the line suspension.
http://www.waynedue.com/
I would spend some time on the forum and evaluate some other cars and figure out what you are wanting to achieve with the car, I believe you will find some great ideas on here that will help you decide what is right for your car. Welcome to the site.
Andrew
11-14-2004 #4