Ironworks Project Donkey Kong Transformation

[ironworks]

Well Ladies and Gentlemen, I have funny story for you about a guy named Nic who lives in Bakersfield Ca. He bought this 68 Camaro off a co-worker of his. And began to search around trying to find someone to build his dream car. He was flipping through an issue of Camaro Performers, that had a short blup about Rich Allen's 68. He thought man that is good looking project, well in that article it said nothing about Ironworks as far as location, so he did an internet search and found our website. Well He was shocked to find out that we were in Bakersfield of all places. So he gave us a call and came by to talk about building his car. Well upon arrival he also met Frank who is local who owns the 48 truck and he knew him from some business dealings. At that point we talked about some work we had done on a 37 Ford for a buddy of Frank's named Frank. At that point Nic said "you mean the tan 37 Ford? That's my neighbor Frank who owns the Italian Restaurant? I was wondering where that car had been for a while." Well at that point I realized I needed to maybe do some door to door sales in Frank and Nic's neighbor hood. Sounds like a good neighbor hood for car building.

Well enough of the emotional made for TV Drama stuff. Nic already had picked up an LS3 with a 4L60 trans from the dealer. We talked about some different options for his build and decided to go with complete Speedtech Suspension set up on this project. We bought the headers and everything from Speedtech. We then ordered the complete Marquez Design Interior kit, the Billet hinges and handles from the Ring brothers and the axles from Moser and the brakes are on order from Wilwood. We ordered a Rick's Fuel tank and a ton of other parts.

We then began with the suspension and drivetrain install. We installed the Vintage Air Front runner on the engine and installed the headers. We got everything major installed in the car to begin our Fabrication around these parts. We built our own mini tubs and got those in place. We installed the DSE sub frame connectors and mocked up the front sheetmetal. We cut out the old dash and Mocked up the Marquez unit and set up the steering column. Currently we are working to widen the inner wheel tubs in the front to clear the wider tires.

Here is a rendering that Carter Hickman has been working on for us. We have some more changes. But this is where we are currently.
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/IWSK_camaro_5.jpg

How the car came in and why it got it's name. DONKey Kong
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsMay2010020.jpg

No Camaro is complete without a King of the Cage sticker. http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsMay2010034.jpg

http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsJune2010096.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsJune2010113.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsJune2010030.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsJuly2010199.jpg

[cdushane]

It's a small world now isn't it Rodger? Looks like that's going to be one sweet ride :thumbsup: Keep the pics coming on this one!

[ironworks]

A pic of the mini tubs.
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsJuly2010178.jpg

Overall pic of the car
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsJuly2010197.jpg

[tobenk]

Man that's goin be awesome when it's finished. Love the shop too.:thumbsup:

[Jr]

Well Ladies and Gentlemen, I have funny story for you about a guy named Nic who lives in Bakersfield Ca. He bought this 68 Camaro off a co-worker of his. And began to search around trying to find someone to build his dream car. He was flipping through an issue of Camaro Performers, that had a short blup about Rich Allen's 68. He thought man that is good looking project, well in that article it said nothing about Ironworks as far as location, so he did an internet search and found our website. Well He was shocked to find out that we were in Bakersfield of all places. So he gave us a call and came by to talk about building his car. Well upon arrival he also met Frank who is local who owns the 48 truck and he knew him from some business dealings. At that point we talked about some work we had done on a 37 Ford for a buddy of Frank's named Frank. At that point Nic said "you mean the tan 37 Ford? That's my neighbor Frank who owns the Italian Restaurant? I was wondering where that car had been for a while." Well at that point I realized I needed to maybe do some door to door sales in Frank and Nic's neighbor hood. Sounds like a good neighbor hood for car building.

Well enough of the emotional made for TV Drama stuff. Nic already had picked up an LS3 with a 4L60 trans from the dealer. We talked about some different options for his build and decided to go with complete Speedtech Suspension set up on this project. We bought the headers and everything from Speedtech. We then ordered the complete Marquez Design Interior kit, the Billet hinges and handles from the Ring brothers and the axles from Moser and the brakes are on order from Wilwood. We ordered a Rick's Fuel tank and a ton of other parts.

We then began with the suspension and drivetrain install. We installed the Vintage Air Front runner on the engine and installed the headers. We got everything major installed in the car to begin our Fabrication around these parts. We built our own mini tubs and got those in place. We installed the DSE sub frame connectors and mocked up the front sheetmetal. We cut out the old dash and Mocked up the Marquez unit and set up the steering column. Currently we are working to widen the inner wheel tubs in the front to clear the wider tires.

Here is a rendering that Carter Hickman has been working on for us. We have some more changes. But this is where we are currently.
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/IWSK_camaro_5.jpg

How the car came in and why it got it's name. DONKey Kong
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsMay2010020.jpg


Looks like the Camaro is on hydraulics.

Keep up the good work. Your mini tub looks good. Where did you guys get the rear tubs?

[HWY Nova]

Looks like the Camaro is on hydraulics.

Keep up the good work. Your mini tub looks good. Where did you guys get the rear tubs?

They made them.... from scratch ......

I saw them last Friday. They look even better in person.



--Eric

[ironworks]

The tubs are just standard tubs we build for 67-68 to allow for a 335 rear tire. They are made from 2 pieces of 18 gauge steel.

Thanks

[tones2SS]

Very nice!!! That is going to be a nice car.
DONKey Kong!!! lollll....:lol: :thumbsup:

[ironworks]

Well Guys Donkey Kong is progressing pretty quickly through the build process. We have all the sheetmetal work wrapped up except for what gets done on the rotiesirre. We have the Marquez interior kit and billet parts installed. The Speedtech stuff went in very nicely. The sheetmetal fit up work was was really easy. Actually replacing the door hinges to aftermarket ones improved the fit up since they did not fit like the old ones, they were bigger which made the hood gap great. Well check out the progress, we plan to have this car in Primer and on the way to paint right around SEMA. Nic should be rolling this car in early spring.

http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsSeptember2010105.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsSeptember2010107.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsSeptember2010108.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsSeptember2010104.jpg

We are going with the "New" 3 piece Sprocket wheels from Schott wheels. 18x10 and 18x12.

Rodger

[ja.stoner63]

Rodger, over the top work from the start. Thanks for sharing.

[War]

Told you that prototype bare metal gap spray would work. Can you hook a brother up.

[Vince@Meanstreets]

Actually replacing the door hinges to aftermarket ones improved the fit up since they did not fit like the old ones, they were bigger which made the hood gap great.
Rodger

Looks good Rodger, thank you for saving another one.


Had a question, what brand door hinges did you use? I haven't had any luck finding a repop brand that fits good.


Vince

[monza]

Can't help but love that!

[tones2SS]

Great stuff Rodger. Keep us posted.:thumbsup:

[awr68]

That's a fun story! Looks like you started with a pretty solid car! A true life lond CA car? That sure makes for a solid foundation!

Love the parts list! What paint shop do you guys use? Any roll bar/cage? ST rear suspension? Very cool car, I even dig the flat hood! :thumbsup:

[ironworks]

Thanks guys, Nic has allowed us to put together a pretty nice car. Nothing fancy or over the top. But we have weld the quarter panels on completely and installed the Speed tech suspension front and rear with an LS3 with a 4L60E trans. It has a Vintage Air front runner and an Autorad radiator core support. It has Ring Brother hood hinges and door handles, with Marquez Trunk and interior kit. We have some Anvil Carbon inner fenders coming our way. We plan to have our buddy Jim in Stockon paint this car again. I'm not sure he is ready to go public just yet. Between me and about 3-4 other dudes he has quite a bit of work. We plan to take the car to Tracy Weaver at Recovery room somewhere around the time we take Franks 48 truck to him.

We started this car somewhere around July 4th.

[ironworks]

Looks good Rodger, thank you for saving another one.


Had a question, what brand door hinges did you use? I haven't had any luck finding a repop brand that fits good.


Vince

The door hinges were way off from the factory units we had on the car when it came in. Or maybe they were aftermarket. These took quite a bit of slotting and such to get them to fit, but once in they moved the door out enough to widen the hood gap at the rear of the hood. I doubt it was planned by Goodmark but it looks like it helped us and made the large amount of time to install these hinges worthwhile. Or we might have just shimmed the hing to the body to bring it out. The Chassisworks Camaro could use the same fix. But I car way less on that car.

[ironworks]

Well we are just about ready for Tear down to Primer and paint the bottom of the car. We got the New Schott Sprocket wheels in. It took less the 2.5 Ounces to balance 3 wheels on the car. That is a pretty true wheel. The Front tires are 295/35/18 and the rears are 335/30/18 BFG

http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsDecember2010009.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsDecember2010008.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsDecember2010007.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsDecember2010006.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsDecember2010013.jpg

[awr68]

Looks good, sit's nice! Way better than the 4x4 that showed up to the shop!

[ironworks]

Looks good, sit's nice! Way better than the 4x4 that showed up to the shop!


Hence the name Donkey Kong, it is no longer a Donk.

[awr68]

Hence the name Donkey Kong, it is no longer a Donk.

........yeah, I get it! ;)

[tones2SS]

The Donk is gone. Looks really good.:thumbsup:
Stance looks great.

[KPC67]

I like it!
How much room do your mini tubs give you at the 12 o'clock position from the inner tub to the quarter lip?

[ironworks]

I like it!
How much room do your mini tubs give you at the 12 o'clock position from the inner tub to the quarter lip?

Well we trim the lip back and bend the flange up so after all that work maybe a 1/2 inch. That flange is pretty long from the factory.

[KPC67]

Oh ok, so in the end with the mini tub you end up with around 15" of clearance?

[ironworks]

When we tear it down next week I will measure for sure.

[Payton King]

did you do the custom dash or is that a Marquez piece?

[ironworks]

did you do the custom dash or is that a Marquez piece?

Marquez

[ironworks]

Well disassembly has completed and we are beginning to get powder coated parts back and sending the body out for blasting and Epoxy primer. I hope to have it running late next month to go out for Final paint.

http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsDecember2010044.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsDecember2010043.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsDecember2010025.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsDecember2010015.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsDecember2010014.jpg

[nic]

The powder coated parts look good. :woot:
What did you break your phone.
I'll see you tomorrow.

[ironworks]

I wanted you to make your 3rd post. Looks at you go. 2 posts in 1 week. Pretty soon you will be completely off topic like the rest of us.

[ironworks]

Well we are getting some things fit up to send the interior to Tracy and waiting for the 48 truck to be done at the painter before we send this epoxied body to the painter. We got the stereo set up and getting some interior things set up. Joe Ellis from Classic Wire is coming monday to work on the engine and interior wiring. We will get the AC hoses set up and installed next week. You can see how things were mounted under the dash and how the engine comaprtant is coming along.

http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsFebuary2011005.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsFebuary2011008.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsFebuary2011009.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsJanuary2011025.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsFebuary2011001.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsFebuary2011003.jpg

[ironworks]

http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsFebuary2011002.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsJanuary2011024.jpg
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http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsJanuary2011022.jpg

[bdahlg68]

http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsFebuary2011005.jpg

Uhhh... Can you make me this inner cowl and dash support???

[tones2SS]

What a transformation it is. Looks great Rodger and crew.:thumbsup:

[nic]

I do like the valve covers and fuel rails, maybe I can buy those used ones off you?

[ironworks]

Just got these pics in from Alan Palmer at Palmer's Customs in Oxnard, Ca.

Looking Good.
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/palmercamaro.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/NewImage.jpg


I think Nic will be happy.

[HWY Nova]

NICE!

I saw this car in primer last Friday.... Can't wait to see the Camaro go back together!!



--Eric

[96z28ss]

Looks almost like Tony's Karma car.
Just kidding

[ironworks]

Looks almost like Tony's Karma car.
Just kidding

Except this one has the needed engine mounts or adapters to get the engine installed.

[tones2SS]

Paint looks great!

[syborg tt]

Very nice color choice - car is going to look really nice

[coolwelder62]

Just got these pics in from Alan Palmer at Palmer's Customs in Oxnard, Ca.

Looking Good.
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/palmercamaro.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/NewImage.jpg


I think Nic will be happy.Wow!! Rodger look's awesome.:thumbsup:

[Swain]

Like the color. Looks good keep up the good work.

[Ron in SoCal]

I dig the color...:thumbsup:

[ironworks]

This is what it should like outside

http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/Ironworks%20Update%20jan%202010/HRE_open_house_1013mm_proofs_225.jpg

[ironworks]

Well Nic and I went down to inspect the work after the car cam out of the booth. Wow that color is intense.

Check it out
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/Nicks68Camaro109.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/Nicks68Camaro103.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/Nicks68Camaro104.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/Nicks68Camaro107.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/Nicks68Camaro108.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/Nicks68Camaro111.jpg

I want to Thank Alan at Palmer's Customs in Oxnard for doing some awesome work on the car. I cannot wait to get it back together here next week and work on getting it back together for Nic.

[brianjw4]

Wow, looks great! Really like how clean the engine looks too.

Do you happen to know the color code for the paint? I want to use something similar on my 66 chevelle.

[NsaneHotrodz]

Very nice!:thumbsup:

[56pickup]

Killer color guys! :thumbsup:

[GregWeld]

I hate the Porsche -- but the color is great looking - and Palmers did a smokin' job on that Camaro!

[Ron in SoCal]

...the color is great looking - and Palmers did a smokin' job on that Camaro!

Well said Greg!

Roger - you Dynamatted before or during paint? All the fab inside is done, huh? Car looks smokin hot...:cheers:

[ironworks]

Well said Greg!

Roger - you Dynamatted before or during paint? All the fab inside is done, huh? Car looks smokin hot...:cheers:

We Dynamatted after the body was epoxy primed and under coated. All the fab work was done before it was primed and under coated.

I'm excited to go pick it up next weekend. Should be all done. We are trying to narrow down who is going to do the interior work.

[ironworks]

Well we picked up the Camaro last night in Camarillo from Palmer's Customs. Wow this car looks awesome. I'm excited to get the car together and get it ready for SEMA.

http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsAugust2011030.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsAugust2011031.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsAugust2011032.jpg
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http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsAugust2011036.jpg

[Vegas69]

Gorgeous color....:thumbsup:

[Darrell]

WOW !!!,I want my car painted:) :)

[WSSix]

Looks fantastic Rodger. Good luck getting it completed in time.

[MODO Innovations]

That is a very nice color.

[bigtyme1]

Great Job Rodger, you taking this to SEMA? What seats did you use?

[GrabberGT]

I dont know why, but with a name Donkey Kong, I kind of expected it to be an eggplant purple kind of a color. Looks awesome. Cant wait to see pics of it in the sun.

[GregWeld]

Nice color --- now.... what's with the 37 Ford in the background? :D

[ironworks]

Nice color --- now.... what's with the 37 Ford in the background? :D

Well the customer had it built by another shop on the coast. He asked me to make it ....work you might say. I told him to cut his losses and sell it. He agreed, but now i just have to make it sellable. Do you need something to tinker on? If so this is right up your alley.

[GregWeld]

Thanks -- I had one POS from Steve Frisbee Auto Restorations... as soon as I replace the clutch that is slipping (after all - the car has 1600 miles on it now so it should be shot, right?)... maybe I'll start working on my '37. :D

[tones2SS]

That is a great color. Looks awesome!

[ironworks]

Well the Donkey Kong car is not so "DONK" any more. It is really coming together. Nic's dream of just a very clean Camaro, Nothing fancy, just a really clean car is coming along nicely.

We are getting a few things worked out on the Speedtech suspension to get it on the ground to fine tune the stance.

http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsAugust2011063.jpg

On the bumpers we shaved only shaved the bolts and Had Sherm's do their magic. They are really looking good.

http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsAugust2011059.jpg

The rear seat retractable seat belts are in and just need to have the package tray part cut to allow them to come through nicely. Nic wanted, Or should I say his wife said it had to have 3 point rear seat belts for the baby. SO Here we have retractable 3 point rear seat belts.

http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsAugust2011062.jpg

The Hot Rod Fab Parts Ecu and Fuse panel mounts are working out great. Everything is ready to begin wiring.

http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsAugust2011060.jpg

Were finishing up the plumbing work and getting all the loose ends underneath set up so we can get it Road worthy very soon and off to interior.

http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsAugust2011061.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsAugust2011058.jpg

[GregWeld]

Now that's the kind of build I can follow.... A super nice car... "roadworthy" to the max... that anyone can be proud of -- and probably afford to have built as well.

Nice. :cheers: :woot:

[syborg tt]

Hi Roger,

Any chance you can post more pictuers of retractable seat belt conversion. I'm doing a simple 4 point but i do like this idea alot and I am sure other people would also.

ps Kudo's to his wife for making sure the kids are safer. Lap Belts or should I say suicide belts are not kid friendly.

The rear seat retractable seat belts are in and just need to have the package tray part cut to allow them to come through nicely. Nic wanted, Or should I say his wife said it had to have 3 point rear seat belts for the baby. SO Here we have retractable 3 point rear seat belts.

http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsAugust2011062.jpg

[ironworks]

Now that's the kind of build I can follow.... A super nice car... "roadworthy" to the max... that anyone can be proud of -- and probably afford to have built as well.

Nice. :cheers: :woot:

Thanks Greg, We did not do any fancy rear valance or big spoiler. It really is just a really nice clean 1968 Camaro. It has LS3 power with and auto trans. A big portion of the build is spent on the paint and soon to be interior. It has a few details, but it is just a really solid car that will be fun to drive. Nic, the owner, says he wants to cruise the car around town late at night like he did when he was 19.

[waynieZ]

Roger the car looks beautiful, I love your work. The rear floors are cut on an angle is that for muffler clearance?

[ironworks]

Roger the car looks beautiful, I love your work. The rear floors are cut on an angle is that for muffler clearance?

Yeah we suck the mufflers up into the body and that angle is for the muffler inlet piping. It really improves the look of the car.

Thanks for the compliment. We do alot of other simple builds like this. Some turn key and alot just various odds and ends of projects for customers and other shops. I kinda like these because they are fairly quick. Plus the customer on this has become good friends. And that makes any build even better. Heck Nic has told me to call him when we move into our new house. How cool is that?

Like I always say, Friendship is the biggest thing you get out of building cars. Cars are just a byproduct.

[ironworks]

Hi Roger,

Any chance you can post more pictuers of retractable seat belt conversion. I'm doing a simple 4 point but i do like this idea alot and I am sure other people would also.

ps Kudo's to his wife for making sure the kids are safer. Lap Belts or should I say suicide belts are not kid friendly.

We will be offering this as a kit very soon. The 4 point seat belts make the car look race. 3 points retract and make the car not so race car. We are working on 3 point seat belts for the front seat also. The front kit will not require roll bar or welding. It will fit through a loop on the front seat.

[syborg tt]

We will be offering this as a kit very soon. The 4 point seat belts make the car look race. 3 points retract and make the car not so race car. We are working on 3 point seat belts for the front seat also. The front kit will not require roll bar or welding. It will fit through a loop on the front seat.

Cool can't wait to see the kit

[rocketrod]

Awesome car and incredible work! Did you make the relocation bracket for the coilpacks?

[1965_SS]

REALLY nice job:thumbsup: Great fab work and paint. This car looks awesome. I really like the 3 point seat belts going in the car also. Made to be driven and cruising with the family:yes: I've got two little ones and that is great.

[bdahlg68]

Roger - could you tell me What's going on with the inner cowl? Will this thing have wipers? What drove the tear out and fab? Oh, and could you make me a set of the firewall to subframe bars??

[ironworks]

Awesome car and incredible work! Did you make the relocation bracket for the coilpacks?

What valve covers and what relocation bracket we will use is still up in the air. He tried out the Katech set up in previous pics.

[coolwelder62]

Rodger,Look's Outstanding.:thumbsup:

[ironworks]

Roger - could you tell me What's going on with the inner cowl? Will this thing have wipers? What drove the tear out and fab? Oh, and could you make me a set of the firewall to subframe bars??

We tear out the cowl vent on most cars. It gets rid of unused space creating more space under the dash for less things to hang lower then the dash. Sometimes we keep the wipers, It just depends on. The owner of this car is local here to Bakersfield and since we get like 3" of rain a year in like .25" sessions we decided to just shave the wiper. Alot of rain for us is like .75" in a 24 hour period. Plus we know days in advance when the rain is coming.

[Ron Fox]

We will be offering this as a kit very soon. The 4 point seat belts make the car look race. 3 points retract and make the car not so race car. We are working on 3 point seat belts for the front seat also. The front kit will not require roll bar or welding. It will fit through a loop on the front seat.

I am interested in your seat belt kits also. I have a young daughter who will be riding along.

By the way nice, clean build Rodger. Nic must be happy. Thanks for the pics.

[70rs]

We will be offering this as a kit very soon. The 4 point seat belts make the car look race. 3 points retract and make the car not so race car. We are working on 3 point seat belts for the front seat also. The front kit will not require roll bar or welding. It will fit through a loop on the front seat.

Another one for the seatbelt kit.

[tones2SS]

Very nice.
Not so DONK any more! I'm digging that color too.

[ironworks]

Well We have been hard at it trying to get all the loose ends set up for SEMA.

We took the car to Pleasanton to show off our bracket and this is what it looks like in the sun.
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsAugust2011094.jpg

The underhood is looking pretty nice. We relocated the coils to fit behind the cylinder head in the gap between the firewall and the engine. It's tight but it fits and keep the plug wires fairly short.
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsSept2011108.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsSept2011107.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsSept2011105.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsSept2011104.jpg

The wiring is about wrapped up. We are waiting a few remaining backordered parts. But it should be running next week. Wilwood is putting a custom powder coat on the calipers for us. We plan to paint the valve covers, Ac compressor, alternator and gauge cluster body color. We plan to paint the throttle body and trunk lock cylinder flat black to match the factory handles that will be coated black.

[syborg tt]

Well Guys this car is really turing out nice. I love how the inner fender look under the hood. Nice touch

Well We have been hard at it trying to get all the loose ends set up for SEMA.

We took the car to Pleasanton to show off our bracket and this is what it looks like in the sun.
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsAugust2011094.jpg

The underhood is looking pretty nice. We relocated the coils to fit behind the cylinder head in the gap between the firewall and the engine. It's tight but it fits and keep the plug wires fairly short.
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsSept2011108.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsSept2011107.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsSept2011105.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsSept2011104.jpg

The wiring is about wrapped up. We are waiting a few remaining backordered parts. But it should be running next week. Wilwood is putting a custom powder coat on the calipers for us. We plan to paint the valve covers, Ac compressor, alternator and gauge cluster body color. We plan to paint the throttle body and trunk lock cylinder flat black to match the factory handles that will be coated black.

[ironworks]

Well Guys this car is really turing out nice. I love how the inner fender look under the hood. Nice touch

Just clean and simple. Thanks

[syborg tt]

Just clean and simple. Thanks

You know how easy it is for a build to get out of control. This car is proof that you don't have to go over the top on the build to get a really cool car.

[Ron in SoCal]

Car looks great Roger. It's simplicity is what makes it so clean! Plus I'm kinda partial to the color...:thumbsup:

[RECOVERY ROOM]

Good point Marty, Looks great Rodger

[ironworks]

You know how easy it is for a build to get out of control. This car is proof that you don't have to go over the top on the build to get a really cool car.

Sure you can build an over the top car, to get noticed. But sometimes a well planned build that the money is spent evenly through the build so one thing does not over shadow the rest is a solid build plan. Nic and I picked a Black powder coat we liked and just coated everything that exact same shade of black. We even recoated some other black parts to be that same black. There is nothing fancy. It's just clean. The wiring is just clean and simple. The plan for the interior will be nice but just plan and simple.

[ironworks]

Well My Guys have been hard at it this week. Donkey Kong is ready to go for interior at Ron Mangus this week. The car is really turning out pretty nice. We have a few things to get back from Palmer's custom that he is painting this weekend, Valve covers, Gauge cluster, outside mirrors and a few other small parts.

SEMA here we come. I want to Thank Nic for letting us build him a really nice camaro. I think it might be nicer then he expected.

http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsSept2011155.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsSept2011156.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsSept2011157.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsSept2011158.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsSept2011159.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsSept2011160.jpg

This is the inspiration for the interior on the car
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/amgdash3.jpg

[scottysimp7]

Wow, that interior inspiration shot is amazing! Cant wait to see how it turns out!:thumbsup:

[GregWeld]

It's turning out really well Rodger! Hard to beat a nice Mercedes interior.... They do a pretty good job of design - function and high end but subtle.

[bdahlg68]

It's turning out really well Rodger! Hard to beat a nice Mercedes interior.... They do a pretty good job of design - function and high end but subtle.

+1. Very curious to see the finished product and how close it is to the inspiration. I'd love to put some C63 seats in my Bird,but I bet they cost fortune!

[Ron in SoCal]

Hmmm....Ironworks fab, Anvil goodies, LS conversion w a clean engine compatment, Palmer paint job, Mercedes inspired interior by Mangus and then off to SEMA.

Just sayin', I'm not seeing sublte and I like it alot....:thumbsup:

[coolwelder62]

Rodger Very nice,:thumbsup: :thumbsup: Sometimes simple is the way to go.:thumbsup:

[randy]

what kind of tail lights are those? Are the centers color matched or black?

[waynieZ]

The car came out beautiful. I can't wait to see the interior done.

[96z28ss]

The underhood is looking pretty nice. We relocated the coils to fit behind the cylinder head in the gap between the firewall and the engine. It's tight but it fits and keep the plug wires fairly short.
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsSept2011107.jpg


you could of just bought a set from me I would of gave you a deal.

[syborg tt]

SEMA here we come. I want to Thank Nic for letting us build him a really nice camaro. I think it might be nicer then he expected.

This is the inspiration for the interior on the car
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/amgdash3.jpg

Uhm it sure came out nicer then I expected. I thought this car was going to be a track car. Sure does look like a show car to me.

[ironworks]

Well I met Ron Mangus for the first time and dropped off the Donkey Kong Car today. The interior colors are..... Flat black Leather and Mushroom Suede.

http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsSept2011161.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsSept2011162.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsSept2011163.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsSept2011164.jpg

I think after seeing the car outside I'm going to raise the rear ride height just a bit. We should get the car back sometime next week. I'm excited as is the customer.

[RECOVERY ROOM]

Good color combo ..should look good, They do nice work

[Al Moreno]

Roger, I'm doing an LS3 and I was admiring what you did with Donkey Kong. Wanted to get some advice from you.

1. Can you tell me where you got the fitting and hose for the vapor blocks. I drew a circle on the picture so you can see what I'm referring to.

2. Who makes or were did you get the clamps for the coupler (see arrow)

Thanks for the help!

Al

PS, is Donkey Kong going to be at GNRS?

http://i1231.photobucket.com/albums/ee508/AL7319/013-1.jpg

[ironworks]

I got the fittings from KRC racing. They work slick. The hose is the HS-79 hose from XRP. That stuff is cool but spendy.

http://www.krcpower.com/catalog_i11251944.html?catId=366482

The intake clamps came from McMaster car, I swear they have everything.

The car will be in out booth at the GNRS with the 48 pickup.

Thanks

[Al Moreno]

Thanks Roger, see you at GNRS.:thumbsup:

[Richio1]

Roger, any final completion pic of Donkey Kong?

Loved watching it come together but you have left us hanging for almost a year now. We would love to see how it all turned out.

[ironworks]

Roger, any final completion pic of Donkey Kong?

Loved watching it come together but you have left us hanging for almost a year now. We would love to see how it all turned out.

There are some pics on my website of the car. I can see about putting some more together. We have taken the car to quite a few shows and getting ready to start using the car for what it was intended to do. Drive it and have fun.

[windycitychev]

Well we are getting some things fit up to send the interior to Tracy and waiting for the 48 truck to be done at the painter before we send this epoxied body to the painter. We got the stereo set up and getting some interior things set up. Joe Ellis from Classic Wire is coming monday to work on the engine and interior wiring. We will get the AC hoses set up and installed next week. You can see how things were mounted under the dash and how the engine comaprtant is coming along.

http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsFebuary2011005.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsFebuary2011008.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsFebuary2011009.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsJanuary2011025.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsFebuary2011001.jpg
http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt248/ironworksspeed/DONKey%20Kong%20Transformation/ShopPicsFebuary2011003.jpg

I love that AutoRad Radiator how is the fitmen?? can't wait until mine for my Chevelle comes in the next two weeks, sweet build

[JB64CHEVELLE]

My Autorad core support for my 64 Chevelle fit like crap. I hope you have better luck. I may just stick with my original one.

[ironworks]

I love that AutoRad Radiator how is the fitmen?? can't wait until mine for my Chevelle comes in the next two weeks, sweet build

I have never had a single fit up issue with any of the AutoRad core supports. They all have fit great for the ones we installed and I have never had one complaint about any of the many we have sold.

Rodger

[ironworks]

My Autorad core support for my 64 Chevelle fit like crap. I hope you have better luck. I may just stick with my original one.

My guess would be that your car might have been in some kid of accident or something to make it not fit. I have never had an issue 1. Did you talk to the guys at AutoRad about how to address your issue?

[JB64CHEVELLE]

Yes I talked with them and they made me some new side blocks for the top of the core. This fixed some issues but now the headlight buckets dont fit and I just gave up on it. I have always thought they sent me one for a 66 or 67 but they say no. Have you put one on a 64 Chevelle? Maybe I just need to bring it to you and have you make it fit and do my Mini tub for me at the same time. Your work is outstanding!

[ironworks]

Yes I talked with them and they made me some new side blocks for the top of the core. This fixed some issues but now the headlight buckets dont fit and I just gave up on it. I have always thought they sent me one for a 66 or 67 but they say no. Have you put one on a 64 Chevelle? Maybe I just need to bring it to you and have you make it fit and do my Mini tub for me at the same time. Your work is outstanding!

I have installed one on a 64 Chevelle and a 70 chevelle and have another one in the back that came off a 67 Chevelle. I always thought there would be an issue with the headlights. But there never was. I bet we could just cut that tab that holds the light buckets and move it over a tick and reweld it. Should be pretty simple.

Thanks we just try hard. I have some talented guys who really care about what they do.

[GregWeld]

I have an AutoRad support/radiator/fans - in my '56 Nomad -- and we installed one in my buddies '56 BelAir - and I put one in a '69 Camaro....

They are works of art!

My Nomad sprung a leak between the tank and the core -- Jim said "Send it back" - no questions asked - they replaced it and it's been perfect ever since.

[JB64CHEVELLE]

They are works of art and they have tried to make it work but it may just be a bent frame. Hope not but its time to break out the tape measure. If all else fails I can hang the art on the wall.:thumbsup:

[Lenie]

Roger, any finished interior pics of Donkey Kong. Nice work.