383 6spd 80Z Camaro EFI

[woody80z28]

Hi guys, I've been hanging out at Nasty Z for 3 years now when I bought my Camaro. Hell, I've been on the Beretta forums for even longer (yes, there are Beretta forums and they're pretty active actually).

I'm 22 and the Camaro is my real heavy-duty work in progress. Although, with the Beretta I have gone through and upgraded the entire suspension, dropped in a bigger engine with some bolt ons and revamped the interior. It completed the 1/4 in a blistering 17.1@79 when I bought it and now I have it down to 14.9@93. Really not bad for a car that is great in the snow and still gets me 30+ on the highway.

On to the Camaro. So far I've built a ~400hp 355ci with Vortec heads and a decent cam and hooked it up to a 93-97 T56 with a Spec flywheel & clutch. I made my own 3" exhaust with an x-pipe & cutouts before 2.5" mufflers and tailpipes. I have M/T drag radials and Slide-A-Link traction bars to help it hook, because traction was pitiful before. Hotchkis front springs & swaybar along with poly bushings round out the suspension, and I have 12" disc brakes on the front with 11.5" disc on the 8.5" 10-bolt with 4.10 gears. I wedged the front subframe with solid mounts and welded in Alston connectors. I installed 4th-gen Camaro leather seats, console and ebrake lever, made my own dash bezel to house all my gauges and am in the process of converting all my lighting to LED. Also on the immediate to-do list is upgrading the electrical and installing my elec fan & water pump.

This winter I also plan on painting the car and buying rolling stock. I've been building it little by little because the car is definitely a low budget build, and a lot of the parts I'm going with are GM stuff, but it runs good & works well.

I've got tons of pics and info on my motortopia page (myspace for gearheads basically) and if you're curious about anything just ask.
http://www.motortopia.com/garage/cars/woody2136

Here's a few teasers:

80 Camaro Z28

http://media.motortopia.com/files/141/album_current_pics/4723bc64884e6/tn_full_100_5262.jpg

http://media.motortopia.com/files/141/album_current_pics/4723bc77a8b6c/tn_full_100_5276.jpg

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http://media.motortopia.com/files/141/album_big_brakes_frontrear_disc/46beafb131e5f/tn_full_100_5077.jpg

[woody80z28]

95 Beretta Z26

I have a Getrag 5spd to put in place of the slushbox and plan on upgrading the brakes with, get this, Subaru disc all the way around. Looking at my girlfriend's Legacy I think I can make it work with a little fabrication. It also needs a paint job but that's not a priority.

http://media.motortopia.com/files/141/album_current_shots/44e28a9278fcd/tn_full_100_3956.jpg

http://media.motortopia.com/files/141/album_beforeafter/4505fb74d2bcf/tn_full_100_4131.jpg

http://media.motortopia.com/files/141/album_beforeafter/4505fce54a9d9/tn_full_100_4011.jpg

http://media.motortopia.com/files/141/album_current_shots/4609d510b4db0/tn_full_100_4565.jpg

http://media.motortopia.com/files/141/album_drag_meet_2_06/450df385dac82/tn_full_track_woodyjpg_Thumbnail1.jpg

[XcYZ]

Welcome aboard. :thumbsup: It's good to have more 2nd Gens around here.

[woody80z28]

Update:
I haven't posted anything on the Camaro lately, so here's an update.

This winter I rewired the entire car. Battery in trunk with kill switch and remote solenoid, distribution blocks in the engine bay and relays on the high amp circuits, elec water pump and fan to free up more horsepower, new dash bezel with switches to control all my accessories, finally got my a/f and vacuum gauges hooked up and the shift light done. Interior is actually assembled and done. Switched to manual brakes with Wilwood calipers in the front.

Went to a show yesterday and then got some decent pictures with the new camera and lens filters. I had my girl shoot a nice video of me pounding on it. Took it zero to redline 3rd gear, which according to gear ratios and my tire size should be 93mph. Seems about right since last year at the track I just hit 4th before the end and that was 101. Watching the video makes me grin ear to ear. haha

http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseacti...ideoID=36237473 (http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&VideoID=36237473)

And on to the pics:

http://media.motortopia.com/files/141/album_current_pics/4855a8a3519bb/tn_full_IMG_0409.jpg

http://media.motortopia.com/files/141/album_current_pics/4855a8b4e9348/tn_full_IMG_0410.jpg

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http://media.motortopia.com/files/141/album_current_pics/4855a8e612079/tn_full_IMG_0426.jpg

[woody80z28]

http://media.motortopia.com/files/141/album_current_pics/4855aaede5eba/tn_full_IMG_0433.jpg

http://media.motortopia.com/files/141/album_current_pics/4855ab2c1d902/tn_full_IMG_0430.jpg

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http://media.motortopia.com/files/141/album_current_pics/4855ab1bdbc7a/tn_full_IMG_0440.jpg

[woody80z28]

And some more pics from this winter:

http://media.motortopia.com/files/141/album_/47ca158ac37b2/tn_full_000_0013.jpg

http://media.motortopia.com/files/141/album_/47ca15b23a513/tn_full_000_0024.jpg

http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_/47ca1ef762ca5/diagram.jpg

http://media.motortopia.com/files/141/album_/47ca159f0070c/tn_full_000_0018.jpg

http://media.motortopia.com/files/141/album_/47db51ef8cffe/tn_full_100_5342.jpg

[woody80z28]

http://media.motortopia.com/files/141/album_/47db51fc55723/tn_full_100_5347.jpg

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http://media.motortopia.com/files/cars/album_electrical_system/47f055a7a76c1/tn_full_100_5370JPG_Thumbnail1.jpg

[woody80z28]

http://media.motortopia.com/files/141/album_big_brakes_frontrear_disc/46beafa909c9d/tn_full_100_5058.jpg

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http://media.motortopia.com/files/141/album_big_brakes_frontrear_disc/483c012a026bd/tn_full_Picture_020.jpg

[novanutcase]

Very nice! Are you entertaining any plans of carving any corners or are you setting the cars up for straight line?

John

[oorange67]

Cool pics!!!! That 4th gen console looks right at home.

[tones2SS]

NICE!!!
I like the bezel. Looks good.
The Beretta is a cool car. I had a '94 Z26, back in the day. Bought it brand new. Great car. Wish I still had it.
Good luck with the build(s).:thumbsup: :cheers:

[woody80z28]

Very nice! Are you entertaining any plans of carving any corners or are you setting the cars up for straight line?

John

The Beretta handles great. I added strut & shock tower braces, Eibach springs and KYB shocks, 17" wheels with 225 rubber (as big as will fit), and 30mm front, 26mm rear sway bars, poly everything.

The Camaro has Hotchkis coils, kyb shocks, sfc's, g-braces, solid body mounts, and hd tierod sleeves, but everything else is still stock. I plan on 18x8.5 & 18x9.5 wheels with 255/45 & 295/45 NT555s and some good leafs & swaybars.

[waynieZ]

Looks great I love the dash !
WAyne

[woody80z28]

Scott's thread on garage journal brought me back over here after a long hiatus. Been busy the last couple years building a new car, buying a truck and then buying my first house... It won't take much to catch up on the Camaro since it has been a little neglected lately...

I have a new Moser 8.5" rear after I twisted the stock one at the strip in '08...and still no time slips I'm happy with yet. Best so far is a 13.51@106. I've since played with the carb and it feels better, but haven't had it back out to get numbers. I did get some good Pro-touring F-body leaf springs installed, and I have Hotchkis sway bars and 18x8.5 & 18x9.5 wheels in boxes ready to go. I put in a new AN-6 fuel system and upgraded to a digital MSD HEI ignition.

http://media.motortopia.com/files/141/album_engine/48cb4ddf5d6eb/tn_full_IMG_1239.jpg
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http://c3.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images02/87/l_af6527958e3d45459975caff106f3b1a.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/cars/album_wheels/4c2014ca5610c/IMG_4286JPG_Thumbnail1.jpg

Immediate plans are for tires, with hopefully OBD1 GM EFI following and paint.

[woody80z28]

I think I'll start a new thread for my 91 Beretta build. It accelerates, turns & stops better than new, so that should could right? haha

[woody80z28]

Some how it's been another 2 years with little progress...amazing how time flies.

I got the new rolling stock on and I'm happy with the fitment. A little body massaging and paint are in line next...as well as a little bit more suspension drop.

http://www.motortopia.com/files/cars/album_currentpics/4e714b7659b3e/IMG_6678JPG_Thumbnail1.jpg http://www.motortopia.com/files/cars/album_currentpics/4e714b6d25ed6/IMG_6691JPG_Thumbnail1.jpg http://www.motortopia.com/files/cars/album_currentpics/4e714b73278ef/IMG_6701JPG_Thumbnail1.jpg http://www.motortopia.com/files/cars/album_currentpics/4e714b77edbbe/IMG_6703JPG_Thumbnail1.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_exteriorchanges/4fb8187ec6397/blackblue.jpg

I also decided to get rid of the 15s for good. One of the stock wheels is going on my wall in the garage as a hose reel.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nn3YTCb7Bvc&feature=youtu.be

http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/551123_429818193703759_100000267473982_1544785_183 0383022_n.jpg
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[camcojb]

progress is good. :yes: I moved this to updates.

[woody80z28]

I bought a used EFI kit that came in today, I'm psyched. Everything looks good. Accel DFI with all wiring and computers: Gen7 with SFI and Alpha-N fueling. Even has the o2. And my low-pro Eddy TB linkage clears the rails with no spacer. (Sold off the shiny one...I don't like shiny). Drop base air cleaner also clears everything fine. I had to use a 1" spacer on the drop base to clear my fuel inlet on the carb, and the TB is 3/4" shorter than the carb, so I might even end up with more hood clearance with the single plane manifold than I had with the air gap! Bye bye stupid carburetor.
http://www.motortopia.com/files/cars/album_eficonversion/508085eb25a6b/IMG_7578JPG_Thumbnail1.jpg
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Current setup with the airgap & carb:
http://www.motortopia.com/files/cars/album_currentpics/5027227b0ce4c/IMG_7460JPG_Thumbnail1.jpg

I also bought a pair of AFR 195 CNC heads and roller rockers to make the swap from my carb Vortec intake to traditonal SBC EFI manifold. Unfortunately the heads were not the Eliminators, they were the old style. But I got a good enough deal on them that I got my money back after I sold them. Tony at AFR told me the older style would surrender about 30hp to the Eliminators on a 500hp engine. I was figuring maybe 450hp out of my 355, and it proabably would have been more like 430. Not even worth it when I'm making 400 now.

So, since I'm in the market for new heads and 195s don't really cost any less than 210s or 220s...I'm contemplating a build from scratch. I figure if I can sell the current 355 carb to pan with dizzy and fuel pump included, a nice 421ci forged Dart SHP short block would be badass. Skip white has a crazy cheap price on them. 421ci with a healthy roller cam and AFR heads? Should be an easy 550-575hp. Could even crack 600 if I want to get a little crazy with the cam & compression.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/SBC-CHEVY-421-COMPLETE-SHORT-BLOCK-KIT-FULLY-FORGED-CRANK-RODS-PISTONS-/330626949771?forcev4exp=true&forceRpt=true
http://www.motortopia.com/files/cars/album_383stuff/5068f18a56308/IMG_7531JPG_Thumbnail1.jpg
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http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab168/skipwhite/ROB/TEST.jpg

[woody80z28]

Sold the Accel manifold & rails and bought a Hurricane manifold & rails. (Same carb height, but longer runners for better midrange.) It's a ProComp and the casting kinda looks like crap, but I'll clean it up. Came with ugly red anodized rails, but that's nothing a little oven cleaner can't fix. Photoshopped them black and I like the look.

Air cleaner height is actually exactly the same as the current AirGap since the TB is shorter and spacer is not needed. I've got 1" to play with to the cowl.

http://www.motortopia.com/files/cars/album_eficonversion/5091b710f2014/IMG_7642JPG_Thumbnail1.jpg
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[camcojb]

:thumbsup:

[woody80z28]

Sold the 355 to another member on NastyZ28. Glad to see it headed for another Camaro. Also found some good quality used parts on NastyZ28 for myself. I'm loving the LS craze...it makes SBC stuff cheap! Picked up a fully forged 383 short block, studded 4-bolt mains with Edelbrock roller cam (232/[email protected] .575/.584" 112) and a pair of AFR 195 Eliminators for not much more than I got out of my complete 355. Throw the EFI on and it should make an easy 500hp. And it saves me a few thousand vs building a 421 from scratch.

Since the car is apart now, I'm going to go through it completely and finally do the paint job and detail work that has been waiting. This winter I have some Beretta projects to get to before the Camaro rebirth, but I'm hoping to have the Camaro done in a year or so. More power, EFI, new paint...will be like a new car!

http://www.motortopia.com/files/cars/album_enginefuel/50ab0b4be64d4/IMG_7857JPG_Thumbnail1.jpg
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[bonecrrusher]

Needs more powa!

[woody80z28]

Already got more than that Vette, Craig! :yes:

[woody80z28]

Got my regulator to plumb in the fuel rail. Gonna feed the front and return out the back. I read the injectors are a little more consistent if you Y the feed to the front and link the rears of the rails to return.

I don't think I posted any pics of the valve covers the wife bought me for Christmas. I like to just stare at it. This thing is gonna be fun...

http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_efi383/5120505c2eee0/IMG_8150.jpg
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[woody80z28]

No updates in forever...actually just got it in the garage a couple months ago. I finally started the body work on it...modified the core support and bumper brackets to work with my wedged subframe and fit some 2010 Camaro side markers in the fender. I like the style a lot better than the original one and it fits the lines pretty nicely. Body has a couple little rust spots but not bad at all. Very pleased there. Bought patches and an OEM fender to replace the POS aftermarket one it had.

Gonna redo some of the wiring while I have it apart. Bought weatherpack connectors and bulkheads to get it sorted out. Want to keep it as clean as possible since there will be an EFI harness going in too. And I've pretty much decided on ditching the Accel setup and going with a Holley HP ECM & harness. The used Accel kit I bought it pretty hacked...and not that user-friendly.

Mocked up the final ride height by popping the springs out and throwing some blocks under the axle due to lack of weight currently. It tucks the tire just how I want and leaves me with between 4.5" - 5" of ground clearance at the lowest spots. Hopefully that's all I need! haha


http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/52d1bb94a0b44/IMG_8871.jpg
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[glassman]

Was just reading this over on Nasty. Nice to see ya here.....Nothing wrong with more power!!!

[waynieZ]

Nice set up. Who's intake is that your using? I like the side marker lights you used they look nice. Something you probably already thought of , supporting the regulator. Vibration would make short work of the AN fitting. Its looking great.

[woody80z28]

Nice set up. Who's intake is that your using? I like the side marker lights you used they look nice. Something you probably already thought of , supporting the regulator. Vibration would make short work of the AN fitting. Its looking great.

It's a "Hurricane"...some China junk...but it has the longest runners of any EFI intake I could find, so I'm gonna clean it up and run it. In theory, the longer runners should help me keep some low end even with the single plane.

You're probably right about the regulator. I'll play with placement some when I get the engine in the car.

[tones2SS]

http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_efi383/5120506295cc3/IMG_8154.jpg

Looking good!
I had a '94 Z26 Beratta. I loved that car. A fun little cruiser, even though it was FWD. lol It was my daily driver back then.

[woody80z28]

Sadly, the black Beretta is no more...killed by road salt. But I parted it to build a new roller a few years back that is pretty nice. I'll post a build thread on it some time.

http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_currentphotos/51ad2c8699fdc/IMG_8561.jpg

[bonecrrusher]

Ss Ftw!

[woody80z28]

After a little inner fender surgery, the tires clear on the bump stops when straight. Obviously they don't clear at steering lock, but I don't know how you would bottom the car out completely at steering lock... Couple pics here show how much room I added by rolling the lip and slightly tweaking it out in relation to the stock inner fender. Still have to finish closing it in, and adding a rail to the outer so the inner can bolt to it. It might be a little ugly, but isn't visible. Haven't decided if I will weld that part, or maybe use the 3M panel bond to keep from warping anything.

Also installed my Aerocatch hood pins and a removable tow hook to keep from wrecking the front air dam.

http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/532f321710d1f/IMG_9117.jpg
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[no go nova]

Nice 80s Z. Cant wait to see more on this ride good work.

[woody80z28]

Finally got back on the car recently. In mockup mode now getting some things sorted out. Plasma cut a plate for the firewall and studded for the 3rd-gen column and stock gas pedal. Keeping visible fasteners to a minimum.

Got my Holley HP from Keith at CustomWorks and getting the wire routing planned.

Also doing a little sheet metal work deleting the heater box and fabbing a better 6spd hump to replace the cobbed hole from when I was like 19.

My SpinTechs will be here shortly, so I can finalize the floor mockup and get this thing on a buddy's rotisserie.

http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/53daa6f70c354/IMG_9497.jpg
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[GregWeld]

http://www.motortopia.com/files/cars/album_eficonversion/508085eb25a6b/IMG_7578JPG_Thumbnail1.jpg




Did you happen to buy this EFI set up from JCG??? It looks like an old one of mine....

[GregWeld]

Took this picture of it in 2003 !!!







http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Nomad/EFIarrvial001.jpg (http://s919.photobucket.com/user/gregweld/media/Nomad/EFIarrvial001.jpg.html)

[woody80z28]

JCG sold it to another shop and I got it from them, so yes, it's the same one. 36lb injectors right?

I actually sold some of that stuff off and I'm using Holley software now...so it's all been around the block quite a bit. haha

[GregWeld]

The minute I saw your picture posted up I knew it was my old one...

It's made the rounds! Started life at Kinsler in Michigan... to Seattle... To So Cal... to somewhere else... to you in New York...

I finally gave up on the Accel Dual Sync distributors to run sequential. I was "too early" on their stuff and those distributors caused me nothing but issues. System ran much better in batch mode.

[woody80z28]

The minute I saw your picture posted up I knew it was my old one...

It's made the rounds! Started life at Kinsler in Michigan... to Seattle... To So Cal... to somewhere else... to you in New York...

I finally gave up on the Accel Dual Sync distributors to run sequential. I was "too early" on their stuff and those distributors caused me nothing but issues. System ran much better in batch mode.

So you had both, ok. It came with two, and also two computers for some reason. I'm pretty familiar with EFI and I didn't find it very user-friendly at all. Two different guys on thirdgen bought the manifold & throttle body. I'm using an old TBI truck distributor I had around for now, maybe it will stay that way? haha Sequential would be nice, you do notice a little difference in the idle...at least I did on my MPFI vs SFI Beretta.

[GregWeld]

So you had both, ok. It came with two, and also two computers for some reason. I'm pretty familiar with EFI and I didn't find it very user-friendly at all. Two different guys on thirdgen bought the manifold & throttle body. I'm using an old TBI truck distributor I had around for now, maybe it will stay that way? haha Sequential would be nice, you do notice a little difference in the idle...at least I did on my MPFI vs SFI Beretta.



I believe in having "inventory"..... and spares... I'm not the "budget" guy. Back in the day it was hard to find parts for EFI (or anyone that knew anything about anything for that matter). I probably still have parts and pieces for that thing... I know I still have some of the blue anodized linkage.. etc. If parts are uncommon - I buy TWO....

I switched that throttle body set up for an 8 stack... and I swapped out the Accel crap at the first chance I got. That stuff ran okay - but there was (Might still be) the worst supported stuff in the history of man. If you wanted to know something - you had to post it in a tech forum - and then keep checking back to see if they bothered to respond.

[WSSix]

Glad you're back on the Z, Woody. Good luck with the plans.

[89 RS]

Look forward to seeing more, good luck with the build!

[CamaroMike]

Hey woody! I remember you from nasty z28 years ago, I cant remember what my name was on there. I think I bought calipers from you. Good to see you still have the car and going at it!

[woody80z28]

It's nice to be working on it again. I've got a to-do list that is miles long, and some of this stuff has been waiting for too many years. The Camaro was getting neglected after the Beretta "frame off", the truck overhaul and buying a house...and that whole getting married thing. haha

[woody80z28]

Finished up the exhaust today. Everything tucks up really nice. The bottom bolt on the header flanges hang just below the subframe, but that is it, and I rerouted the over the axle pipes for max suspension clearance. I modified the crossmember and the driver's header to keep everything up high. And those SpinTechs are fairly small so they aren't bad to locate. Should sound nasty too! Next thing will be the rear Hotchkis bar install and then cutting off & modifying the mount where the SFCs connect to the SF so it's removable for the rotisserie.

http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_efi383/53fa4e1c13e00/IMG_9561.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_efi383/540245fe084d2/IMG_9578.jpg
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http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_efi383/540246e647033/IMG_9583.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_efi383/5404cd103e365/IMG_9590.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_efi383/5404cd153ec21/IMG_9592.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_efi383/5404cec1567f0/IMG_9591.jpg

[woody80z28]

Big update! Been burning more metal with the car on the rotisserie...cleaning up some ugly from the 6spd swap and the rear end through the back seat. haha
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/541f35dfe5378/IMG_9612.jpg

Reworked the Alston SFCs. I was amazed at how much I could flex them when I cut the ends off to remove the subframe. So I built some heavy brackets with a big gusset and put a couple braces on the SFC tubes to the floor bracing to make them stronger. Now it should be just as strong as the Rasmussen/DSE-style connectors without redoing it all. Welded in the Hotchkis plates for the rear sway bar too.
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/5436dc51d0f44/IMG_9602.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/5436cfcaa7326/IMG_9625.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/5436cfce89932/IMG_9626.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/5436cfc68e29d/IMG_9624.jpg

I finished the fab work on the 6spd hump and boxed in the floor bracing I had to cut for the shifter. Probably not an issue anyway given the solid SF bushings, but can't hurt. Also finished fab on the firewall for the clutch master bracket and filling/smoothing, and added an 1/8" band under the cowl seam where there was a lip. Should be a stronger spot to bolt my G-braces to and will look better when I grind & smooth it.
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/5436d14dceb92/IMG_9638.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/5436d059185bd/IMG_9627.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/5436d05d361c1/IMG_9631.jpg


Cut out the metal on the front lower quarter to access the rusted bracing. The pass side was repaired by the previous guy, but they didn't do anything with the bracing. I'm going to get both of those areas blasted when it goes to the blaster next week, and try to re-fab the bracing if I can see how it should have been. I already have the patch panels to close it back up.
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/5436d30c3f9cd/IMG_9661.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/5436d1c61c538/IMG_9652.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/5436d1ca115dc/IMG_9653.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/5436d1cdd83fd/IMG_9655.jpg

There is also a hint of rust at the bottom of the doors. My body guy says it might not even be worth skinning. Have a look and see what you think. The other rusty spot is the heavy gauge toe box up by the subframe mount. Not sure of the best plan to tackle that. It needs to be structurally solid in that area.
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/5436d31054fc0/IMG_9659.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/5436d314681a3/IMG_9657.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/5436d155d1aca/IMG_9643.jpg

[woody80z28]

Got the car back from the sand blaster finally and I've gotta admit, I'm disappointed with the job. Looks like they half-assed it. Sent the boss at the blaster some pics and they are gonna take it back and do it right.

Not much for rust surprises. Got down to the fiberglass patches from the PO in a couple spots so I can fix it right. Did find a new spot on the cowl to cut up though. Didn't see that one coming.

http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/544d4482d82dc/IMG_9676.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/544d4486cce8d/IMG_9678.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/544d4537ee5d3/IMG_9680.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/544d45dd6f250/IMG_9682.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/544d45e152d27/IMG_9683.jpg

Doing a couple patches first. And cut out all the rust in the inner rocker/door jamb area of the quarter.

http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/544e9887bb6f5/IMG_9684.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/54569270a30fa/IMG_9700.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/54569274d16eb/IMG_9704.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/5456936592c79/IMG_9697.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/545693697f4d5/IMG_9699.jpg

So I knew the PO replaced the exterior sheet metal at the lower quarter...what I did not find out until just now was they wadded the holy rocker full of bondo. So I cut all of that out too.

http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/546034ae59e90/IMG_9705.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/546034b25859f/IMG_9711.jpg

I also cut out the rusty part of the cowl panel. Borrowed a friend's cheapo HF spot weld cutter and it worked amazing actually. Very impressed. I put a post in the NastyZ swap meet section looking for just that part of the cowl in case someone had to use just the driver side for something. If no luck I'll just buy one and sell off the other half. haha

http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/546035149db84/IMG_9709.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/54603518c4586/IMG_9710.jpg

Finally got everything I need to finish up the underbody once I get it back from the re-blast job. I will be taking the car back over this week. I've got SPI primer and Lizardskin heat & sound coating.
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/546035fe1b32b/IMG_9713.jpg

[woody80z28]

OK...been a while.

Blaster re-blasted the car and some more stuff.
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/54656e43d537e/IMG_9714.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/54656ef3ea603/IMG_9717.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/54656ef7b6625/IMG_9718.jpg

Thanks to Kevin Tetz and a guy on the NastyZ facebook I ended up smoothing the firewall further and relocating the wiper motor while I was finishing metal repair.
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/548d004756e31/IMG_9719.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/548d004f533e5/IMG_9730.jpg
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http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/54b33d374ddec/IMG_9773.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/54cc6479b06ba/IMG_9784.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/54cc647dcc7c2/IMG_9785.jpg

[woody80z28]

Braced & stitch welded the subframe, and had to add a plate to get the Hotchkis brackets to fit.
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/54b33d3f6d879/IMG_9776.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/54c5a27695da2/IMG_9780.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_suspensionchassis/54cdb24e3c8b0/IMG_9795.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_suspensionchassis/54d04bbfdbfbd/IMG_9801.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_suspensionchassis/54d04bc3d99f8/IMG_9807.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_suspensionchassis/54d04da30b8d9/IMG_9809.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_suspensionchassis/54d04daa3659c/IMG_9810.jpg

Melted the lead out of the quarters.
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/54d6785009820/IMG_9812.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/54d679707ed99/IMG_9815.jpg

And thinking about changing plans now and stripping all the exterior sheet metal now too before laying primer & insulation on the underbody & interior. It would probably end up working out better.

[glassman]

That is alot of work. But you know at the end of the day, you'll be very satisfied with the results.....I saw the Hotchkis mod on Nasty Z last week.

So with the wiper relocation, is there any links you can send me on that mod? thinkin about it on my 2nd gen.....I like the looks of it.

[WSSix]

sway bar mount looks good, Woody. Should also help keep from ripping the mounts out under hard cornering. You may also want to consider Keith's 2G bar that goes in front of the sway bar while you're there.

[woody80z28]

That is alot of work. But you know at the end of the day, you'll be very satisfied with the results.....I saw the Hotchkis mod on Nasty Z last week.

So with the wiper relocation, is there any links you can send me on that mod? thinkin about it on my 2nd gen.....I like the looks of it.


Here's the post where I did it:
http://nastyz28.com/forum/showpost.php?p=3301841&postcount=428
and in that post there's a link to Kevin's version of the same thing.


sway bar mount looks good, Woody. Should also help keep from ripping the mounts out under hard cornering. You may also want to consider Keith's 2G bar that goes in front of the sway bar while you're there.

I will be mocking something up like that soon. Keith's 2G bar won't fit with my dropped core support and PTFB's 1LE brace won't work with the Hotchkis bar...but I can do something that is a compromise between the two. I just need to mount the core support and radiator w/ lower hose to make something that will clear.

[WSSix]

I'm sure whatever you can do will work well. I can't honestly point to one item in particular that really strengthened my car, but I can say I am very happy with everything I have done. The car feels great and is very rigid now.

[Justin@EntropyRad]

Not a lot of love for those years in the mainstream..but that one will scream around!

[woody80z28]

Wow, haven't updated this in a long time. So I'll catch it up.

Seam welded the whole B-pillar, and then welded a strip in the recessed area. So instead of 2 layers of sheet metal with 8 spot welds, now I've got 3 layers with 8 spot welds and 3 continuous beads.
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/54d834ec7a5a4/IMG_9820.jpg

Fixed the quarter bracing with 16gauge and closed it back in and stripped the whole body.
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/54e813e2a4b87/IMG_9821.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/54e98856ac819/IMG_9836.jpg

Got done slinging filler on the whole shell. And then condomed the garage so I could spray.
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/55146eea98cc7/IMG_9870.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/55146f7c1b575/IMG_9875.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/55146f81d7c63/IMG_9876.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/5532bce281711/IMG_9908.jpg

[woody80z28]

Put down SPI epoxy first, then Lizard Skin ceramic outside and LS sound control inside, and then Raptor Liner as a topcoat outside. Didn't like the stacked texture of the Raptor on top of the Lizard, so sanded it back down smooth and reshot the Raptor. Now I just plan to shoot some more Lizard Skin ceramic on the inside of the firewall to make up for what was sanded off and then I can take down my "booth" and get this thing off the rotisserie finally!

http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/5533b08c72d80/IMG_9913.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/5533b090aa160/IMG_9915.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/5533b35d31ca3/IMG_9916.jpg
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http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/553d2f16e5c49/IMG_9991.jpg

[WSSix]

Nice work, Woody. Is color next or do you have a lot left to do with the body before then?

[woody80z28]

I also got some new parts in this week. DIY C5/C6 kit and SPC upper arms from Custom Works, and rotors & calipers from Amazon. I went Z51 spec withthe 13.4" rotors. The calipers came naked without the "Corvette" on them which is nice, because I had already planned on sanding that off and making them say "Camaro". I took the 4th-gen Camaro logotype and modified it slightly and arched it for the calipers. I think it will look pretty sweet...kinda stockish. The SPC arms will be nice for alignment adjustment in them without using shims, which is a nice solution since my G-braces mount to the A-arm studs.

http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_suspensionchassis/5537f0a23db6c/IMG_9919.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_suspensionchassis/5537f0a637d52/IMG_9921.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_bigbrakesfrontreardisc/553aa25794e58/IMG_9956.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_bigbrakesfrontreardisc/553aa2af9794b/IMG_9953.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_bigbrakesfrontreardisc/553aa2b3c5e75/IMG_9954blue.jpg
^ Photoshop of a blue caliper and bare aluminum "Camaro". I think it should look pretty good.

I have an order in at Speedhut for a set of gauges if they ever get here. haha I designed them all from scratch. Also saw Holley's touch screen for the EFI. I really like it and it would fit perfect in the dash! Not sure if I can spare the coin for it though. I'll decide later on that as funds allow...

http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_interior/5509e9fce5f91/mph-rpm.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_interior/5509e9fdc45fb/temp_volts_psi_fuel.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_interior/55147103063f2/digitaldash.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_interior/55147107c71d1/dash.jpg

[woody80z28]

Nice work, Woody. Is color next or do you have a lot left to do with the body before then?

The shell should only need final blocking before color, but I won't be doing that for a while yet. I'm gonna get it back on the ground and get final mockup work done for the subframe & core support & inner fenders and shoot them with the epoxy and Raptor. Then it's stripping & body work on the fenders, hood, doors, decklid and urethane & fiberglass... Then the plan is to shoot all that stuff with epoxy, and then finally color.

Seems like it never ends...

[waynieZ]

Nice job it's looking great!

[WSSix]

You're right, it never ends. I like the gauges you designed. I'm considering going back to modified stock gauges myself. I've seen some of Guagemarks work and am impressed. I'd like to try to clean my dash panel up some more first though and see if I can get it looking more professional.

[woody80z28]

I finally got my custom Speedhut gauges and I'm excited/disappointed. The quality is very nice and the electroluminescence is awesome. I like that they are all electrical gauges and the daisy chained quick connect wiring is super clean. Unfortunately - they used the wrong blue compared to what I spec'd and approved. They used the middle "Giants" blue for the dials rather than the lighter "Panthers" blue like I wanted. I double checked their emails and it is correct in the proof I approved...so we'll see what they do about it. It might be picky, but it's what I designed...and being a designer makes me a little anal about that stuff. The middle blue won't match my stripes very well...

http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_interior/555647ad35533/IMG_0093.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_interior/555647b1512d8/IMG_0097.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_interior/555647f04d95a/IMG_0095.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_interior/555647f3e8e21/IMG_0098.jpg

[woody80z28]

Got the car of the rotisserie and back on all 4 wheels. Temporarily. I will have to pull the front end back off and spray it once the final mockup/fab is done.

The rear should be in for good. I did the Herb Adams spring pocket relocation which was tough with the Slide-A-Links, but the extra 3/4" ground clearance, 3/8" ride height drop and modified instant center for free was too much to pass up. haha

http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/5545419d833f0/IMG_0013.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_suspensionchassis/55468aa723176/IMG_0029.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_suspensionchassis/554688e922451/IMG_0041.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_suspensionchassis/5549224b79fde/IMG_0054.jpg


Had to drill the balljoints to fit the SPC arms and modify the spindles for the C6 brakes. Now my balljoint is the droop limiter and the bj plate hits the wheel and full droop, full lock (ok at ride height). So when I get the steering linkage on I'll see how far full lock actually is, because the tires hit the Hotchkis bar in front as expected...so that will be my steering stop. haha I may use a shorter shock to be my droop limiter (that's the cleanest option) or fabricate some sort of adjustable stop.

I also mocked up my rollbar tube for under the rad support with cardboard. I'll get the template to a local shop and get it bent. Will require some surgery on the rad support, but it will fit nicely.

http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_suspensionchassis/554d2642b7b9d/IMG_0067.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_bigbrakesfrontreardisc/554d27d466c90/IMG_0069.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_bigbrakesfrontreardisc/554fb4ad10c3a/IMG_0076.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_bigbrakesfrontreardisc/554fb4b0e67f1/IMG_0077.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_bigbrakesfrontreardisc/554fb542213e3/IMG_0085.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_suspensionchassis/55564af795c03/IMG_0090.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_suspensionchassis/55564afc0b217/IMG_0091.jpg

[WSSix]

Congrats on getting it on the wheels again. Hopefully, Speedhut comes through on correcting the error. The gauges do look good though.

[flatoutz]

Woody,

The car is looking good.But I have point out about the drivers side upper control arm.From my understanding the bolt for the link on the ball joint mount needs to go in the back,because the bolt can possibly shear due to much load on it.There was a guy on a another message board a while ago that had a failure due to the mount being in backwards.I hate to see you get hurt and wreck the car.

[glassman]

Really nice job with everything. Did you already ask Keith (Customworks) if he could find a buyer as hes a speedhut dealer too? I'm gonna buy that setup when i redo my interior in the next couple of years...

[woody80z28]

Woody,

The car is looking good.But I have point out about the drivers side upper control arm.From my understanding the bolt for the link on the ball joint mount needs to go in the back,because the bolt can possibly shear due to much load on it.There was a guy on a another message board a while ago that had a failure due to the mount being in backwards.I hate to see you get hurt and wreck the car.

I could have sworn the directions said to put the weld in back, but I just did a quick search online and see you're right. Good catch! Thanks for the heads up.


Really nice job with everything. Did you already ask Keith (Customworks) if he could find a buyer as hes a speedhut dealer too? I'm gonna buy that setup when i redo my interior in the next couple of years...

That's actually a good thought. If Speedhut gives me a hard time, I'm sure I could sell these online. The pic I posted on the NastyZ28 facebook page has almost 100 likes overnight. haha I'd hate to be 1 of 2 cars with these gauges instead of unique...but if it's the only way to get me the right colors I can deal with that.


I got my test fender back from my painter and I'm still undecided on a color. All these dark/slate blues tend to be very metameric. They look quite different in sunlight/flash/fluorescent. And I seem to like different samples best in each light source... I did cut up pieces of the hood decal I won't be using to see how the tri-color stripes will look.

Colors here are Volvo#492/80 Camaro #29/modified Volvo#492/13 Corvette "Night Race Blue"

http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/5557d4facbd55/IMG_0102.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/5557d4ff14a51/IMG_0106.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/5557d502e3f27/IMG_0110.jpg

[WSSix]

To me, deep blue on these cars look best. I'll be going with a deep, dark blue on mine when I finally repaint it. So my choice would be the Camaro or Corvette blue. Leaning towards to the Camaro blue because of the flakes.

[woody80z28]

These are both supposed to be the stock #29 Dark Blue...and they look quite a bit different:

http://img.mecum.com/auctions/HA0414/HA0414-178989/images/HA0414-178989_1.jpg
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b118/scooter916/camaro_aug2007_03.jpg

[bonecrrusher]

Needs the Corvette Mightnight Race Blue - and the disco stickers - and the panthers blue gauges!

[woody80z28]

Back to hot rodding! Spent the last week (and all the long weekend) doing a whole new roof on my parents' new house. Glad I'm not a roofer for a living.

I got my bar bent by a local shop. It's 1.5" .120 wall tubing. For $30! Can't beat it. Had some 3/16 left over to plate the frame where it mounts. Welded the perimeter of the plate and the center hole of the frame to the plate. Super strong. Thinking about adding a cage nut to the frame where the rad support mounts. Would make it really easy to bolt in since my access hole from the bottom is gone now. This thing should keep the subframe square and be a nice spot to jack the front of the car up. haha

I had to cut up the core support some to get the best fitment. I'll see how that goes this weekend getting the radiator situated again.

http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_suspensionchassis/556781ae5d5a9/IMG_0127.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_suspensionchassis/556781b297dc3/IMG_0133.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_suspensionchassis/55678218e9dbd/IMG_0136.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_suspensionchassis/5567821ce78b8/IMG_0138.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_suspensionchassis/5567829465e11/IMG_0139.jpg

[WSSix]

I like it! You certainly did a better job than I did on mine.

[woody80z28]

Here's a pic of my clearance cut. Wouldn't need to clearance it at all if I hadn't modified the core support to work with the wedged subframe.
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_suspensionchassis/556b74c95881b/IMG_0142.jpg

Made a template and then killed another shelf to make it. I love electric shears.
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_suspensionchassis/556b74cddc744/IMG_0144.jpg

Went a little overboard welding...but overkill is perfect in my book. Had about an inch overlap on what was left, so I fully welded the top and then welded the bottom as far as it followed the straight edge. It's super strong now. I will weld in the rubber isolator mounts once I get a pair...mine are MIA.
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_suspensionchassis/556b752d830a5/IMG_0148.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_suspensionchassis/556b75316a7fb/IMG_0149.jpg

Radiator (3rd gen) & fan (Volvo something) fit like a glove now.
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_suspensionchassis/556b757aefefd/IMG_0147.jpg

Also ended up getting a pair of door skins locally. Got a good deal on them and I'm gonna try it myself. Gonna need some youtube research. haha
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/556b77a1da3e6/IMG_0150.jpg

[woody80z28]

Found my color! Finally. That BMW Midnight Blue looks great. Very similar to the stock 80 Dark Blue, but it doesn't turn blurple and the pearls give the metallic a little more flop. So depending on the light it's a little darker than the stock, or brighter reflection than the stock. I really like it a lot. I was almost getting ready to make a compromise on color...so I'm glad I don't have to!

http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/559adf8b61d8f/IMG_0195.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/559adf90cc52a/IMG_0196.jpg

I'm taking the rest of the body panels down to bare metal now. I got the door frames and the core support blasted. And I'm going to shoot epoxy on the fenders and trunk lid too while I'm doing the doors. The pass fender got creased and repaired at some point...and the driver's fender had an antenna hole removed. Didn't these all come with the antenna in the glass? I wonder if someone added a CB at some point to outrun the smokies...

http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/559ae0549c1c3/IMG_0198.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/559ae05892b86/IMG_0200.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/559ae11845a04/IMG_0201.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/559ae11c775c4/IMG_0202.jpg

I also found a surprise on the trunk closeout panel. I see the replacements are cheap, but I wonder about fitment.

http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_paintjob/559ae17c7c9a4/IMG_0204.jpg

[woody80z28]

And here's an update from a while back I missed posting here:

So the door frames are getting blasted and my test fender is at the painter's with 8oz of BMW B38 and another batch of custom Volvo 492.

I've been busy trying to build a better mousetrap. I cut a new bezel for the Speedhut gauges and the fit was good - like always. I've done like 3 different stages over the years. But with the whole dash out I saw a way to make it better...so I started using some scrap stock and making changes. Now it's deeper and the gauge panel is angled up to your viewing angle. I'm on rev4 right now and have a couple of little tweaks to make, but it's getting really close. The last version is all made in one piece and thermoformed on a hot wire. Changed the gauge placement too...I think it looks more modern now. And my replacement faces came in so I swapped out the "Giants" blue for the new "Panthers" blue stuff. Much better.

2006:
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_interior/46147c143f9bd/100_3473.jpg

2008:
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_/47db51ef8cffe/100_5342.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_/47db51fc55723/100_5347.jpg

2015:
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_interior/557f9bb3a78d7/IMG_0188.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_interior/557f9bb80212b/IMG_0168.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_interior/557f9d45200ef/IMG_0176.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_interior/557f9d49481ac/IMG_0177.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_interior/557f9f65e25b4/IMG_0178.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_interior/557f9f7077278/IMG_0182.jpg

I'm going to backlight the "Camaro" in the center like I did the "SS" on my Beretta project. And I just bought some SPDT 3-pos rocker switches that I can wire in for the fan etc as ecm/off/override on. with an LED indicator each. The big round holes in the center part are for Vintage air vents. Hoping I don't need to add AC, but I'll have the vents to do it if I do. The LEDs in the gauge face are the signals, highs, parking brake, alt light and check engine light.

And here's what I did with the Beretta. Same plan of attack for "CAMARO" but with blue LEDs.

http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_finishingtouches/53d4140d20413/IMG_9439.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_finishingtouches/53d41487d8847/IMG_9440.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_finishingtouches/5540e46f51258/IMG_0007.jpg

[WSSix]

You do great work, Woody. Glad you stuck with a stockish dark blue. Power antennas were an option from what I can tell on our cars. If ordered, it was put in the driver's side fender. My car has the same hole in the same spot.

Do you know anyone that can do a custom gauge panel for my car? I like how I have done my gauges but the panel itself is obviously an amateur effort. I want it to have a more professional look which means it's beyond my abilities. Thanks

[glassman]

Looking great!! That will be one nice big bumper love when your done...keep it up. Looking forward to more results...

[waynieZ]

Beautiful job! The dashes look way better than factory ever did. nice job on the radiator support too. Very impressive!

[woody80z28]

Thanks guys. I'm working now on replacing the factory pull headlight switch with a rotary dial. Jetta, Caravan and Saab are looking like the best options...hahaha I asked a seller on ebay of each to get me a total diameter measurement to make sure it will fit, whichever I choose. And I also found a Mack truck wiper rocker switch that could work.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/111712011878?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT
http://www.ebay.com/itm/252015785769?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT
http://www.ebay.com/itm/361133521118?_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT

Do you know anyone that can do a custom gauge panel for my car? I like how I have done my gauges but the panel itself is obviously an amateur effort. I want it to have a more professional look which means it's beyond my abilities. Thanks

I have heard good things about this guy's Camaro panels, so I would bet the Firebird panels look good too. Give him a shout.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/250712070500

[WSSix]

Thanks Woody. Changing over to a more modern switch is a good idea.

[woody80z28]

Made a blockoff plate for the wiper motor hole in the cowl. Once I cut that part of the firewall out it would have been a waterfall inside the car! Also got some standoffs on Amazon to mount the EFI HEI coil on the firewall...I think it will work out nice.

Cut off the wings on the rad support, widened the opening and then bolted them back on. Should keep the air right where it needs to be...and if I have to take them off at some point it's just 4 bolts. I also finalized the radiator mounts and drilled some drainage holes so it doesn't fill with water.

Picked up an AMD deck filler too and WOW it fits like ****! I'll be better off fixing my OEM one and sending that POS back.

http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_frameoffpaintjob/55a40faccbbea/IMG_0206.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_frameoffpaintjob/55a40fb0d554b/IMG_0213.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_frameoffpaintjob/55a41048995e6/IMG_0208.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_frameoffpaintjob/55a4104ca9633/IMG_0210.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_frameoffpaintjob/55a410c122781/IMG_0215.jpg
http://www.motortopia.com/files/141/album_frameoffpaintjob/55a410c52d3b3/IMG_0211.jpg

[woody80z28]

Ok...no updates in a while. Partially because I've been busy with other stuff...partially because my photo hosting site sucks now. So I switched to photobucket.

Got the basic body work done on all the steel and put down epoxy. Hit the inside of the new door skins with Lizard Skin sound control. Put the door skins on and sealed the seams. Rebuilt the hinges, aligned the doors and burned some of the new seam sealer welding the god awful door gaps on the driver side. What's the best way to seal all that back up after the metal work is done? I'm a little worried about the folded over area with the skin & frame where it all had a nice coat of epoxy & sealer that is now burned off I'm sure.

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0325_zpsk66t78ev.jpg (http://s113.photobucket.com/user/woody2136/media/camaro/build/IMG_0325_zpsk66t78ev.jpg.html)

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0378_zpsezcadkyn.jpg (http://s113.photobucket.com/user/woody2136/media/camaro/build/IMG_0378_zpsezcadkyn.jpg.html)

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0386_zpskk3p075t.jpg (http://s113.photobucket.com/user/woody2136/media/camaro/build/IMG_0386_zpskk3p075t.jpg.html)

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0390_zpssfmngqlp.jpg (http://s113.photobucket.com/user/woody2136/media/camaro/build/IMG_0390_zpssfmngqlp.jpg.html)

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0391_zpsg0ya3syf.jpg (http://s113.photobucket.com/user/woody2136/media/camaro/build/IMG_0391_zpsg0ya3syf.jpg.html)

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0394_zpsxq3xltsz.jpg (http://s113.photobucket.com/user/woody2136/media/camaro/build/IMG_0394_zpsxq3xltsz.jpg.html)

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0398_zpslekoacje.jpg (http://s113.photobucket.com/user/woody2136/media/camaro/build/IMG_0398_zpslekoacje.jpg.html)

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0401_zpsdsl3sw33.jpg (http://s113.photobucket.com/user/woody2136/media/camaro/build/IMG_0401_zpsdsl3sw33.jpg.html)

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0403_zpsq5ytqenr.jpg (http://s113.photobucket.com/user/woody2136/media/camaro/build/IMG_0403_zpsq5ytqenr.jpg.html)

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0404_zpslagmcn83.jpg (http://s113.photobucket.com/user/woody2136/media/camaro/build/IMG_0404_zpslagmcn83.jpg.html)

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0409_zpszluwd3pa.jpg (http://s113.photobucket.com/user/woody2136/media/camaro/build/IMG_0409_zpszluwd3pa.jpg.html)

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0410_zpsugtuiqge.jpg (http://s113.photobucket.com/user/woody2136/media/camaro/build/IMG_0410_zpsugtuiqge.jpg.html)

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0416_zpsz5mergfi.jpg (http://s113.photobucket.com/user/woody2136/media/camaro/build/IMG_0416_zpsz5mergfi.jpg.html)

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0424_zpsxvdg6j4p.jpg (http://s113.photobucket.com/user/woody2136/media/camaro/build/IMG_0424_zpsxvdg6j4p.jpg.html)

[woody80z28]

And I've been working on a brake retrofit. I did the 13.4" C6 Z51 brakes up front and it made the 11.6" Blazer rotors out back look tiny. So I wanted to engineer an interchangeable rotor combo for drag & street wheels. C6 Z51 rear rotors are 13.0" and I found that C6 Z06 rear rotors are 13.4"-and a visual match to the Z51 fronts. So the graphic designer in me has to make it happen.

The ebrake shoe is the same between Blazer and Vette. Check. Center bore is the same. Check. Offset is way off - but a spacer behind the backing plate will fix that. Rotor thickness is about 0.200" different...but shaving pads will fix that. There is enough difference in radius between the 11.6 and 13.4 to make an extension bracket to hang the Blazer caliper further out on the big rotor. So I made some templates out of plastic at work and got it all figured out. I just need to fab the final ones out of steel.

By using the Blazer caliper and pads (which are bigger) I can swap between street & drag brakes without bleeding the calipers or popping out the axles. Should be a 10min job per side. I like the sound of that. Oh - and I found GG friction rated Blazer pads at Advance so I'm all good to go there. Maybe this car will even stop after the rebirth!

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0421_zpsgnsh5ixg.jpg (http://s113.photobucket.com/user/woody2136/media/camaro/build/IMG_0421_zpsgnsh5ixg.jpg.html)

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0336_zpsvujddbzo.jpg (http://s113.photobucket.com/user/woody2136/media/camaro/build/IMG_0336_zpsvujddbzo.jpg.html)

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0349_zpsk2x8ob9j.jpg (http://s113.photobucket.com/user/woody2136/media/camaro/build/IMG_0349_zpsk2x8ob9j.jpg.html)

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0366_zpsr2l0ppuu.jpg (http://s113.photobucket.com/user/woody2136/media/camaro/build/IMG_0366_zpsr2l0ppuu.jpg.html)

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0367_zpsohr9vkze.jpg (http://s113.photobucket.com/user/woody2136/media/camaro/build/IMG_0367_zpsohr9vkze.jpg.html)

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0369_zpsb9ogvsns.jpg (http://s113.photobucket.com/user/woody2136/media/camaro/build/IMG_0369_zpsb9ogvsns.jpg.html)

[woody80z28]

Yes, I'm a dumbass. Just wanted to throw that out there first...

So, I caught the car on fire! And didn't even know it. I was almost finished welding the holes in the inner fender a couple nights ago right when the wife got home from work. So I finished the last couple, took off my helmet & gloves, turned off the welder & gas, shut off the radio and went inside to have dinner.

Came out a couple hours later to a garage full of smoke. One of the last welds must have slowly started the towel on fire. It burned the whole thing. Luckily there wasnt anything flammable but the towel in the immediate area. And it looks as though the only real casualties are the control arm bushings, ball joint boot and a caliper slider boot. Could have been a lot worse.

So, a few parts, some refinish work, and a welding blanket later I'll be all set. And BTW, oven cleaner works awesome for fire damage cleanup!

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0472_zpswlqzhkt1.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0473_zpstnvvaxk8.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0474_zpsszge8f8s.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0477_zpsh128wftw.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0483_zpsz6fkums5.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0484_zpsi4dtoxqs.jpg

Used the fire as an excuse to buy tall upper ball joints. And got new pivots from SPC to get it all back together during my second sheet metal mockup. Those new door skins have moved everything around... I'm waiting for a body guy buddy to come over and give a little guidance. I'm still not happy with all the gaps yet.

Picked up some button head bolts for the inner fenders to give just a little bit more tire clearance just in case. Every little bit helps right? And I dont think I've ever posted pics of the ugly fab work for the inner fenders for the extra tuckage. So here they are.

Also figured out my mounting for the Aerocatch pins. By moving the fender brace under the header panel now it clears the hood and the Aerocatch assembly, and gives me a solid place to weld on a tab for the pin and adjust height.

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0508_zpsbyeu2imb.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0510_zpspxcjpmii.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0488_zpslaff9gcb.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0491_zpszqb7gbim.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0493_zpsaf6eyvzc.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0498_zpstz576rmm.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0503_zpsavw0k23e.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0501_zpslepnzfpo.jpg

[Sieg]

:bitchslap: http://www.harborfreight.com/4-ft-x-6-ft-fiberglass-welding-blanket-67833-1.html

[WSSix]

Yeah, your car is like a cousin to mine. You're way ahead of me on body mods but you're doing the same stuff I want to with mine. Aerocatch latches, modifying the inner fender for clearance, and switching to pan head bolts. At least I now know it all works. Thanks! :D

Glad to see the good progress, Woody.

[woody80z28]

Guess it's time to update this thread again...even though it will be depressing how little I've had time to do! haha

Wow, haven't updated in while. Guess that's ok...haven't gotten much done. Working a ton of OT, but that helps the build fund.

Got the pins done. Actually used the burned up pivots from the SPC arm! haha
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0525_zpskdmdk33k.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0526_zps9hpfkwxy.jpg

Thought briefly about just running with the craptastic panel fitment from the Goodmark door skins...and then thought better of it. Welding the gap in the rear gave me a little warpage, and I found a different technique online. With this technique you use 1/8" solid round stock. A lot less welding. Got it looking pretty good now. Gonna mud the driver's side before I weld the pass to see if there is anything I can improve on. But I think it's gonna be decent.
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0527_zpsvqjjj7ki.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0534_zpskimtvsfs.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0540_zpsgnfv9jfm.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0542_zpstvbjbhxv.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0545_zpsle1gkq4v.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0546_zpsnpnjgfut.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0547_zps3dnjlnmx.jpg

I think the door gap saga is now over...pretty happy with the fitment. I highly recommend the 1/8 solid rod method to anyone tasked with this crap. haha

Next issue: fiberglass! Hood and rear spoiler fitment. I am so highly excited... :screwup:

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0550_zpsny2jckz6.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0555_zpsyr5sncyr.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0560_zps8s0bg25k.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0562_zpssyoacyns.jpg

[woody80z28]

Woooooooo fiberglass.

Two studs on the spoiler were gone so I cut some all-thread and glued it in with resin. (Notice the Buick door work bench since my dad stole my saw horses) haha Each end had cracks in them, so I wadded them full of duraglass once I ground them out.

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0567_zps0bxbvsqr.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0569_zps1teewtcs.jpg

To get the spoiler aligned with the end pieces and fitting the deck lid better I had to add a little bit to the bottom side. So I taped the deck lid, laid duraglass on the deck lid and installed the spoiler. As it was starting to kick I ran the spreader down the front and I think it will smooth out really easily.

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0577_zps2vdn1iu7.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0576_zps7qceeetk.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0578_zpszdzuy7ju.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0580_zps7ckvcrw8.jpg

Then it was just some perfection work for the gaps and the alignment to the ends. I think I have it close enough for regular filler now. I'll see after I sand it.

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0584_zpsmmnwkodb.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0585_zps7dpu6iyg.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0589_zpsidx7r63i.jpg

Hopefully all is well when it's done. Alignment was horrible before, and with the dark blue that's going on the reflection would stick out like a sore thumb I'm sure. I don't think it ever really shined when it was maroon so it didn't look as bad! haha

Haha. Probably a good call. It does have a hair more gap on one side. probably a slice and reweld would do it. You're an evil influence...haha

Cut the spoiler off, cleaned up the bottom side and got the fitment perfect.

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/temporary_zpsxilqzcdq.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/temporary_zps1hnk7ngg.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0590_zps6jtmkfxt.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0594_zpseec7tfvm.jpg

And saw a quote in the new Hot Rod that seems directly applicable...
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/WP_20160409_15_34_24_Pro_zpshyvbccb4.jpg

post

[woody80z28]

Made myself a bondo spreader on the CNC at work. Hopefully it helps me get the 3 pieces of the spoiler matching perfect. Should be a lot easier than what I have been doing...
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/temporary_zpsim7d6tfs.jpg

Hood openings need work too. I'm trying to finish up the spoiler before moving on to the next issue, but I may be able to save some time by ordering a new nose. I'm still not excited about using the one I have. There are some waves in it, and has tiny little cracks when you sand it all the way down to the urethane. Wondering if a different nose will fit at the hood differently. The nose I'm looking at is the Stinger fiberglass one (same place that made my hood).
https://www.americansportscar.com/products/chevy-camaro-bumper-1978-1981-front-flex
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/temporary_zpsidiahf5n.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/temporary_zpsjhh8tict.jpg

So I bought the Stinger nose. My dad was headed to Mopar Carlisle to sell parts and Stinger was going to be there as a vendor...so I called them up and had them send a sweet Chevy nose on the truck with all their Mopar junk! haha Saved me about $200 in boxing/shipping charges.

Quality looks pretty good. I do see a couple minor flaws, but that's the beauty of fiberglass...it's easy to fix!

One little problem I ran in to though. Looks like I need to grind the fiberglass headlight bucket/grille structure down to fit the nose over it. It doesn't just stretch over like the urethane.

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/WP_20160717_17_56_42_Pro_zpso6ohoyzw.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/WP_20160718_21_40_46_Pro_zps9yl6k4w2.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/WP_20160718_21_41_23_Pro_zpsntkq3xvd.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/WP_20160718_21_43_27_Pro_zpsjwcvtthu.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/WP_20160718_21_43_38_Pro_zpsh6fjabta.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/WP_20160718_21_49_58_Pro_zpscfzfnhbn.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/WP_20160718_21_50_03_Pro_zpsrwynpqa4.jpgpost

[woody80z28]

Started installing the nose. I studded the fenders to make it easier to bolt on. Doing the bolts from the front was always a pain because there was no direct shot to get on them, you had to screw around with a knuckle or bend the urethane. Neither are a good solution... So now it goes on and I can start the nuts by hand. Then they are easily tightened with a knuckle on a long extension.

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/WP_20160723_16_41_34_Pro_zpscumllc9x.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/WP_20160723_17_24_36_Pro_zpsotosbakz.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/WP_20160725_21_49_58_Pro_zps8nj1vm9w.jpg

Fitment at the fender extension kinda sucked, and I saw a post about steel supports that were never on my car. So I fabbed some up out of 1/8". Seems to work pretty well.
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/WP_20160809_23_16_48_Pro_zps9cau1vw4.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/WP_20160810_22_02_48_Pro_zps6lt7rfcp.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/WP_20160805_21_02_26_Pro_zpskaxazq9r.jpg

Hood gap sucks though. So that's something I need to tackle. Hinges need rebuilding before that though. So I'm drilling and using 1/2" bolts and nuts. Going to tack the nut to the bolt when I get the pivot at the tightness I want.
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/WP_20160810_22_23_02_Pro_zpsiunobzev.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/WP_20160812_22_34_02_Pro_zpscz3ara5p.jpg

Test fit the headlight & signal buckets, and grilles. None of them fit great, so they will take a little work too.
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/WP_20160730_17_48_37_Pro_zps79krixhb.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/WP_20160730_17_48_46_Pro_zpsgtyqfxms.jpg

But I kinda like that it almost looks like a car!
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/WP_20160810_23_29_45_Pro_zpseklnyvr3.jpg

So now I'm working on getting the spoiler perfect...finishing the last fitment project before tackling the newest one...
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/WP_20160817_18_44_06_Pro_zpskcgmsrub.jpg

post

[woody80z28]

Happy with the spoiler now. Check.

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/WP_20160818_22_22_00_Pro_zpsgnebj6wb.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/WP_20160818_22_22_24_Pro_zpsarldk3hu.jpg


Ordered some hardware from boltdepot.com to rebuild my hinges. They have a TON of stuff. And I'm actually going to order some 3/8 brass washers and drill them to 1/2 because these 1/2 ones are huuuuge.

So, I like the way the hinges work now. I drilled all the 3/8 holes in the hinges to 1/2 and used a 1/2" shoulder bolt with a 3/8 stud. Plan is to blast and powdercoat the hinges, assemble, and tack the nut to the bolt when done. Maybe threadlocker would be better though. I haven't decided yet.

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/WP_20160904_22_29_14_Pro_zpsu1jkmddn.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/WP_20160904_22_29_30_Pro_zpszrsjovrm.jpg

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/stylization-z28-pair_zps7zhq3moa.png

I posted in BS about an illustration I did with some 20" ZL1 wheels. Totally loving the concave face and the blacked out look. Looks pissed off. NASTY! But I was a little worried that 20" wheels would just look too big.

So I had a friend come over and I tried the stock SS 20s...

Nope!

Too big.

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/WP_20160920_17_31_22_Pro_zpsbgurve7l.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/WP_20160920_18_30_57_Pro_zpsbvl8vh1e.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/WP_20160920_18_32_43_Pro_zpsdlqlbovr.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/WP_20160920_18_34_50_Pro_zpsct4l8jbs.jpgpost

[WSSix]

Doing great work, Woody. I'm dreading the body work once I get there. That's part of why I'm ignoring it for now. I will have to go through everything you are, too. I won't be changing to a fiberglass nose though. I'd be too afraid of damaging it on something minor.

I don't think anything larger than an 18 fits these cars well. You have to go so thin on the sidewall to keep the car low. Plus you have to deal with flattened arches of the wheel wells. Birds can get away with a 19 and maybe a 20 but I still think 18s are the best balance of rim and tire.

Keep it up!

[woody80z28]

Wow...I am way behind in updating this thread.

I saw Fesler just released a flush mount glass kit for 70-74 with a the rear in the works for 75-81 and it got me all excited! Then I looked at the price and decided to see what other options there are... haha

This is a roll of T-trim that I used on my Beretta. It's a Dodge Dakota spec that is used as a universal. I'm going to check to see if there is something similar available that is slightly wider than 1/2". To set it up like the first picture I will have to weld additional metal to 3 of the 4 dimensions. To set it up like the second pic I may be able to use a 3/4 or something and have it look pretty good.

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/WP_20161022_14_17_26_Pro_zps7zm6eayy.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/WP_20161022_14_18_35_Pro_zpssgexrryh.jpg

I'm pretty damn sick of body work though. And I do need to spray my subframe and inner fenders, and probably reshoot the firewall. So I dropped the engine in to do some final mockup.

Going to gusset the rear LCA mounting ears (since stock LCA brace doesn't fit with headers) and modify the G-braces to fit under the cowl instead of on top. Also hoping there is enough floor clearance to cut off the 3-bolt flanges and replace them with V-band clamps (did my whole truck exhaust with V-bands and love it).

I wanted to get all the EFI wiring harness stuff finalized, too. I'm adjusting wire length for a cleaner fit and I'll need at least one more hole in the firewall and a different disconnect for the distributor. Mounted my ignition coil on stand offs and really like the look. Also mounted the type-2 PS pump with my bracket and pulley from Speedway. Seems like pretty good stuff.

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0999_zpsypns77qe.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_1000_zpsbdubugrm.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0995_zps7yetffjy.jpg

Cardboard header gaskets to keep from chewing up the alum heads. haha
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0996_zpsywgzdbts.jpg

First time with this engine in the car and the pan is pretty damn low.
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0997_zpsav28cz0z.jpg

This pic exaggerates it, but the pan looks to be about the lowest point for ground clearance. So that's not good. I did some research and found out it's a Summit pan with a 8.25 depth. So I'll be fine to cut it up and raise the sump an inch. Probably take me from 7qts to 5.5 or 6. I'll figure out the math.
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_0998_zpsa4tn3nun.jpg

Fabbed a cowl brace for the g-braces. I moved the g-braces under the cowl to gain some hood clearance, new hood is tight. I used some 3/4 x 1-1/2" bar stock as nuts and welded them to a thick wall gas pipe. Button head bolts keep hood clearance maxed out. I already have 1/8" plate welded under the cowl for some extra strength. Got some big washers I'm going to weld to the fenders too- there needs to be spacers for the g-brace mounts anyway.

I also drilled holes in the tunnel for wiring. Going to weld the stock wiring hole in the firewall shut. Decided after mocking stuff up that one wiring hole looks out of place with everything else being so clean.

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/chassis/IMG_1050_zpsmx3zi8kp.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/chassis/IMG_1049_zps3qbagvnh.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/chassis/IMG_1055_zps0zdhl44n.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/chassis/IMG_1057_zpsd6e6uwif.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/chassis/IMG_1059v2_zpsqvatvj90.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/chassis/IMG_1067_zpsuarse1s5.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/chassis/IMG_1066_zpsfxpkrsog.jpg

[woody80z28]

Picked up some more parts on Black Friday sales...mainly DSE lower arms, QuickTime scatter shield and a Wilwood 7/8 master.

Fabbed a bracket and ran the throttle cable. First bracket didn't line up well so I offset it. Angle iron looks good when you clean it up! Going in the powdercoat pile.
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/WP_20161209_19_28_19_Pro_zpsfvxcnxeq.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/WP_20161212_21_52_48_Pro_zpstou6kup3.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_1106_zpsnfuk6dn2.jpg

The SFI bell is a big heavy SOB. I put it in to make sure my planned wiring routes would still be ok. Looks like it will.
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/WP_20161214_22_45_24_Pro_zpsc2zuyrgj.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/WP_20161214_23_08_48_Pro_zpss6pmpyp0.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_1105_zpsckgho8hj.jpg

DSE arms are like jewelry. Be a shame when they're all full of road grime. haha (Stockers are for sale in the swap meet section, with delrin bushings). What I really wanted was the added caster.
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/WP_20161212_17_43_51_Pro_zpswcf84kp5.jpghttp://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/WP_20161220_21_12_37_Pro_zpsgyu1mprf.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/WP_20161220_21_21_11_Pro_zps5lqvg7kn.jpg

Plumbing in a puke tank to eliminate the PCV. At 11:1, I don't need oil reducing the effective octane of the fuel. Area was tight, so I'm doing a pair of 90s looping forward to clear the MSD coil and the g-brace.
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/WP_20161222_18_55_54_Pro_zpsard8qf7z.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_1101_zpse1ka8lpd.jpg

Assembled the PTFE lines for the power steering with the S10 TypeII pump.
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_1122_zpsb35mcgy1.jpg

Also think I've decided on a fuel line solution. Regulator up front for accessibility with crossovers front and rear to minimize any pressure spikes from injectors firing (especially in MPFI batch mode). The regulator being so close to the rails should also help with that. Routing the lines far away from the headers should minimize any problems with heat soak. Have a couple fittings in the mail to finalize the plumbing, but this should be it:

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_1123_zpsni5wxmbc.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_1120_zpsads7nt0b.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_1115_zpsa3abc8f0.jpg

[woody80z28]

Working on a project I started because of the aero thread on p-t. I've always wanted to smooth the fender vents, but they're pot metal. So I'm going to cut up the stock vent to use as a trim ring and fab the actual scoop out of the sheet metal. It's also going to quadruple the area for underhood air to exit (theoretically reducing drag and aiding in cooling).
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_1142_zpss7cnkr2v.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_1144_zpsv47fyqsm.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_1145_zps12rzg70l.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/IMG_1147_zps3afqeupx.jpg




Made a date with my body guy to get this damn thing painted! And he's running behind schedule...so I'll post these for now. But it's in queue. I have the body work done to basically the best of my ability and he's going to finish everything up perfect and spray it. (I did my Beretta last year and a couple spots that I thought were perfect showed slight flaws a few months after fresh paint).

I really like how the fender vents came out. It was difficult to get a good decreasing radius bend that was smooth. My old landlord has an English wheel that I used and that's pretty tedious, but it worked ok.
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/IMG_1172_zpsh7bvbluf.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/IMG_1175_zpsylp8b1b3.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/IMG_1184_zpsefflz5q2.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/IMG_1246_zps4cgpmv3r.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/IMG_1248_zpsdt2uiu7l.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/IMG_1252_zpszzv6uwbq.jpg

[woody80z28]

I also got my rear bumper project done. It's something I've thought about for quite a while. It has always driven me nuts that the bottom of the rear bumper isn't on the same plane as the bottom of the quarter. I photoshopped it to match and it looks so much better. So I cut up the stock one to try it out and fit a basic rear diffuser idea to match the aero package I'm going to do in a year or two.
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/IMG_1192_zpsqm5owikv.jpg

I was happy with the results, so I bought a Glasstek rear bumper and cut it up. I used the car as my jig and some ABS sheet as a backer to slop some kitty hair on it and make it one piece again. I also made some studded steel plates to eliminate the metal "straps" for the urethane bumper ends and duraglassed them in. Then I took it off the car, removed the self tappers and peeled the ABS off and hit it with fiberglass cloth and resin to give it some strength.
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/IMG_1195_zpsz0cru5cm.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/IMG_1197_zpshejp5phv.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/IMG_1200_zpssakiqszx.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/IMG_1201_zpsueguk2xj.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/IMG_1208_zpsqlnab3sd.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/IMG_1210_zpstglp0zf6.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/IMG_1211_zpsbrqdjde7.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/IMG_1212_zpsvuxkzceo.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/IMG_1215_zpsui2motci.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/IMG_1232_zpszorkfg0z.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/IMG_1236_zpsm2el0qj3.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/IMG_1237_zpsxcizvzya.jpg
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/IMG_1239_zpstv4rtcsc.jpg

I really like the "fatass" look. I think it helps with the really short and wide back end. I also like how the metal strap delete cleans it up. I got a 12" LED bar that will serve as the reverse lights right above the license plate and it can tint the whole taillight lens smoke red which will work with my "amber delete" tail idea. I also welded a much better mount for my kill switch than the one I cobbed when I was 20. haha. I'm going to make a license plate holder/trim piece out of ABS that looks much better when the plate is off and the switch is exposed.
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n232/woody2136/camaro/build/body/IMG_1221_zpskx9mwb0t.jpg

[JohnJ@RideTech]

Good to see some love for the later 2nd gen cars.

[Goosesdad]

Fantastic work!!!

[WSSix]

Looking good, Woody! I hope it doesn't spend forever in paint jail once it goes in.

[glassman]

Yeah, all the work looks great. I'd hate to see it caught up in paint jail too. Love watching this build, keep up the great work!! Looking forward to more progress pics...

[GregWeld]

Build a STOP on the bracket to stop it from moving. A leg down on the back side of the intake manifold (on the bracket) for that throttle linkage.... It will NOT stay in place otherwise - I don't care how much you tighten it down. Not to mention over torquing the TB on the manifold... The TPS (Throttle Position Sensor) is very sensitive to the throttle position.

Won't take much to make a stop on the bottom side of that bracket - which was very clever BTW!

[woody80z28]

I had thought about that actually and then decided I didn't need it. I put a star washer between the throttle body hole and bracket to keep it from rotating. Seems great, but there will be a lot of cycles on that connection. With a heavy foot. So it is probably good advice, a little stop would leave no doubt...and it's easier to do now than redo after powder coat later. I'll do it once the engine is back out and easier to get to.

[waynieZ]

Your doing a nice job , I like the fender vents.

[woody80z28]

I see it's been a long time here since I've updated, but I've also been neglecting it pretty badly...so bad that all the picture links died! But I have resumed work on it, and it's moving forward again.

I got most of my plywood front & side splitters done, and my rear diffuser is glued & screwed...so the only thing left for them is some resin and filler work.
https://i.imgur.com/u6Fsdbv.jpeg

I made a rear hitch that looks like it'll work really well.
https://i.imgur.com/ISVtVjX.jpeg

And I designed some caliper brackets to make rear C6 Z06 rotors and base calipers work with S10 Blazer backing plates on any old 8.2/8.5 or even 7.5 rear axle. You can even switch back & forth with 11.6 Blazer stuff to use 15" drag wheels.
https://i.imgur.com/pIUYWAC.jpg

My updates are basically in video form now on my youtube channel Gearhead Dezign. Check it out if you're interested.

[WSSix]

Glad to know you're still working on the car!

[woody80z28]

Yeah I get too ambitious. Too many projects (6) and not enough time (dad now). Still writing checks my free time can't cash! 13 years into this Camaro now...about 5 wasted waiting for a painter who ultimately declined...but that's still 8 years to get probably 3 years worth of work done.

If you go on youtube you can explore:
96 Beretta "T56" FWD to RWD LS project
2dr Blazer "Z69"s: one Gambler 500 beater, one 5spd swap winter daily and one 5.3/SM465/SAS on 37s
01 Silverado "ZF6" 8.1 6spd manual
06 Suburban needing NV4500 swap

There's always something that needs to be done on...nearly all of them.