Project "Grand Touring" 69 Torino GT Formal Roof

[torino420]

Hi All,

Last winter I decided its time to look in to updating the rear suspension and mini tubbing the car.

Since nobody makes a kit for a Torino, I wanted to find someone local who could do the work on the car. That led me to Steve at East Bay Muscle Cars in Brentwood.

I brought my car down to Steve's shop so we could put the car on a lift and take some measurements. He happened to have a kit for a Camaro that we were able to compare and it looked like it could be adapted to my chassis. After some detail measurements Steve decided that he could adapt a DSE Quadralink to the Torino.

We both aggreed that I could fit a 12" wide wheel with a 335 or 345 tire so I ordered 19x12's and 18x8 Rushforth SuperSpokes with polished hoops and smoked titanium centers. Once the wheels arrive I brought the car down to Steve so he could start working on the car.

With the inner tubs removed here is a shot of the car with the rear wheels and tires test fitted.
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/010-Copy-2/913337967_JT43P-M.jpg
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/016/897714096_i8RQW-M.jpg

Finished wheel tubs.
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/P1010103-Large/930127444_JFRGN-XL.jpg
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/P1010105-Large/930127570_Z3gZ8-XL.jpg

DSE Quadralink install almost complete!
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/020/953156058_TtkDn-M.jpg
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/021/953156079_jDaV3-M.jpg
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/027/953156113_FLtBo-M.jpg
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/022/953156097_KQX8n-M.jpg

By this time, the panhard bar should be installed and shocks and new axles are on the way.

[Vegas69]

That looks hot man. :thumbsup:

[tones2SS]

Looks good man!
Keep us posted.:thumbsup:

[Flash68]

Very sweet!

Steve is a great dude and you should be in great hands.

[WSSix]

very nice! I like seeing alternative car builds.

What do you mean by formal roof though? Do you mean it's not a fastback?

[torino420]

very nice! I like seeing alternative car builds.

What do you mean by formal roof though? Do you mean it's not a fastback?

thanks and yes the non fastbacks were called formal roof's or coupe if you will.
I've heard formal roof hardtop too but yea its not a fastback :)
If you're not familiar with the car here is another pic, I realized without the trunk on, it may be hard to tell.
http://photos.smugmug.com/photos/183021279_uxoS7-M.jpg

[WSSix]

Wow, that looks so much different than a fastback one. I actually like it better and I like the fastback ones. I never knew they came as a formal roof. Were they simply a "normal" model while the fastbacks were the sport models if you will? What are the build numbers like for that style do you know? I honestly think this is the first one I have ever seen.

[torino420]

Wow, that looks so much different than a fastback one. I actually like it better and I like the fastback ones. I never knew they came as a formal roof. Were they simply a "normal" model while the fastbacks were the sport models if you will? What are the build numbers like for that style do you know? I honestly think this is the first one I have ever seen.
Well it seems that the fastbacks were more popular but even the formal roofs came in "cobra" models with the 428 CJ. Not sure on production numbers though but they are obviously more rare then the fastbacks.
here is an example:
http://listverse.files.wordpress.com/2009/08/1969-ford-fairlane-cobra-tm.jpg?w=400&h=300

[tones2SS]

Nice looking car!:thumbsup:
I'm really digging the color.

[MoparCar]

Nice build.
A couple of questions regarding the DSE install. What are you using for the upper shock mount? Will you use the DSE "channel" or? How about the swivel links---did you order them unwelded so you could cut to fit or use the stock GM length? I've pondered this for my Mopar project before so I'm curious as to the details.

Thanks, Wes

[torino420]

Nice build.
A couple of questions regarding the DSE install. What are you using for the upper shock mount? Will you use the DSE "channel" or? How about the swivel links---did you order them unwelded so you could cut to fit or use the stock GM length? I've pondered this for my Mopar project before so I'm curious as to the details.

Thanks, Wes

The shocks haven't arrived yet as far as I know, but they will be fabbing the upper mounts for those. I'm pretty sure he just ordered all the brackets, arms, etc for a Camaro. He said the lower links were the same length as the front half of my leaf springs.

Maybe Steve will chime in to give more detail on the install.

thanks

[coolwelder62]

Good lookin project.Steve is an awesome fabricator.Real nice work.:thumbsup:

[EBMC]

First of all I want to say we are proud to be involved with such a unique car. Jason will no doubt be having alot of fun with this car at shows and other events.
We used a Camaro Quadralink and kept all of the DSE factory dimensions and spacing. Due to the increased room under the floor, we were able to fab mounting brackets for the upper links without protruding into the rear seat area. We also braced these mounts to the subframe connectors as well with 1 3/4" round tube. The only cutting of the floor is in front of the gas tank to make room for the 1 3/4" round tube upper shock crossmember. We basically reversed the rounded contour of the floor panel in that area. The shocks are QA1's with a 12.5" installed height. The axles should be here this week and Hopefully Jason will be at Goodguys Pleasanton later this month.:thumbsup:

[coolwelder62]

I will say it again.Real nice work. Lookin good.:thumbsup:

[EBMC]

Thanks for the kind words!

[MoparCar]

EBMC,
Thanks for posting the pictures of the "universal" DSE install. Please post pictures of the panhard mount/install when complete.

Nice build.

Wes

[soundqdoug]

This is probably a stupid question, but you can use QA1's with the Quadralink? I wonder if there's a major difference between those and the DSE Koni's in a real world sense.

[GregWeld]

This is probably a stupid question, but you can use QA1's with the Quadralink? I wonder if there's a major difference between those and the DSE Koni's in a real world sense.

I can tell you that I just switched out my QA1's for STRANGE coil overs -- and the difference was ASTOUNDING!

Even my sister said what an amazing ride quality difference it made... and what does she know?......LOL

Seriously - after making this switch - I'd never look at anything QA again.

[FETorino]

Hi All,

Last winter I decided its time to look in to updating the rear suspension and mini tubbing the car.

Since nobody makes a kit for a Torino, I wanted to find someone local who could do the work on the car. That led me to Steve at East Bay Muscle Cars in Brentwood.

I brought my car down to Steve's shop so we could put the car on a lift and take some measurements. He happened to have a kit for a Camaro that we were able to compare and it looked like it could be adapted to my chassis. After some detail measurements Steve decided that he could adapt a DSE Quadralink to the Torino.

We both aggreed that I could fit a 12" wide wheel with a 335 or 345 tire so I ordered 19x12's and 18x8 Rushforth SuperSpokes with polished hoops and smoked titanium centers. Once the wheels arrive I brought the car down to Steve so he could start working on the car.

With the inner tubs removed here is a shot of the car with the rear wheels and tires test fitted.
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/010-Copy-2/913337967_JT43P-M.jpg
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/016/897714096_i8RQW-M.jpg

Finished wheel tubs.
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/P1010103-Large/930127444_JFRGN-XL.jpg
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/P1010105-Large/930127570_Z3gZ8-XL.jpg

DSE Quadralink install almost complete!
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/020/953156058_TtkDn-M.jpg
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/021/953156079_jDaV3-M.jpg
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/027/953156113_FLtBo-M.jpg
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/022/953156097_KQX8n-M.jpg

By this time, the panhard bar should be installed and shocks and new axles are on the way.

If I remember you are running Art Morrison front strut kit and a built Windsor with a TKO. Like the formal roof but you know I prefer fastbacks.......

[torino420]

If I remember you are running Art Morrison front strut kit and a built Windsor with a TKO. Like the formal roof but you know I prefer fastbacks.......

hey FETorino, true on the built Windsor and TKO but only running OpenTracker components up front with an RRS rack and pinion, brakes are 13" Mustang Cobra. For now!

[SVTforme]

Looking great - did not know you were going this route on your build! Great idea integrating existing engineered parts from DSE.

[EBMC]

EBMC,
Thanks for posting the pictures of the "universal" DSE install. Please post pictures of the panhard mount/install when complete.

Nice build.

Wes

Heres the panhard mounting.

[torino420]

woohoo, getting close! the axles come in Steve? I will likely drop by Tuesday afternoon unless you happen to be there today.

[EBMC]

Yeah I guess I should have at least let you see the pics before posting! Axles are here and we will be wrapping up assembly next couple of days! Stop by Tues.

[torino420]

Yeah I guess I should have at least let you see the pics before posting! Axles are here and we will be wrapping up assembly next couple of days! Stop by Tues.

no worries. See you tomorrow.

[Nick.V70]

http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/010-Copy-2/913337967_JT43P-M.jpg
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/016/897714096_i8RQW-M.jpg


WOW...I sould have mini tubed my car and went 12"s. :bow:


How is she looking for next week?

[torino420]

How is she looking for next week?

Only time will tell, most of the work should be done this week. I still need tailpipes and really not sure i want to go to a goodguys show stirring up dust. :rolleyes:
We'll see though.

[Nick.V70]

Only time will tell, most of the work should be done this week. I still need tailpipes and really not sure i want to go to a goodguys show stirring up dust. :rolleyes:
We'll see though.

If it makes you feel better mine will be turned down because I don't think my tails will clear the new axle set up I am still hoping to have before the weekend.

Danville Thursday night? :)

[torino420]

If it makes you feel better mine will be turned down because I don't think my tails will clear the new axle set up I am still hoping to have before the weekend.

Danville Thursday night? :)
Yea possibly, you going to take your car there?

[Nick.V70]

Yea possibly, you going to take your car there?

Axle shafts showed up yesterday, waiting to find out if Chassis Works is done with the housing and the 3rd member will be done mon/tue. Will everything fall into place so I can drive it.....hope so:D

[torino420]

I assume you're hoping to make the Goodguys show as well?

[Nick.V70]

If she drives Thursday....I will be driving her ALL WEEKEND!!! :lol:

[torino420]

If she drives Thursday....I will be driving her ALL WEEKEND!!! :lol:

Sweet! I am anxious too! :D

[Nick.V70]

I will keep my eye out for your vinyl top ride....:cheers:

[torino420]

Getting there! Got to see it on the ground and it looks killer.
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/045/973720202_7pPVj-XL.jpg
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/041/973719174_qghe2-XL.jpg
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/048-Copy/974095978_J97Vo-L.jpg

[tones2SS]

That looks awesome man!:cheers:

[Nick.V70]

WOW....:thumbsup:

[Nick.V70]

Is she going to make it this weekend?

[Flash68]

Is she going to make it this weekend?

or tonite to Danville?

[ja.stoner63]

I do love your car!:unibrow:

I owned a 72 Years ago...about the same color.

[torino420]

Still not done, a few little things are taking time. For one, the stock replacement fuel tank needs some modifying to fit. Couple other things too.
Seems like everything always needs some tweaking to fit right, now if it were a Mustang or Camaro, it wouldn't be an issue I bet :)

If I do make it, most likely Sunday.

[torino420]

I do love your car!:unibrow:

I owned a 72 Years ago...about the same color.

thanks...and your car is amazing!

[Nick.V70]

Oh well, shoot for the Livermore down town show at the end of Sep. :thumbsup: Mine is not rolling either this weekend.

[torino420]

Oh well, shoot for the Livermore down town show at the end of Sep. :thumbsup: Mine is not rolling either this weekend.

The Altamont Cruisers show on the 26th? Sounds like a plan!

[Nick.V70]

I think that is it. That is what I am now shooting for aswell.

[waynieZ]

I just got to go through the whole post awesome project. Their doing beautiful work on it. I love the shot from the back with no trunk lid. The car looks rugged from there. Very nice.

[torino420]

The mini tub project is now complete. Now time to build some tailpipes. Will be replacing the Spintechs with Magnaflows.

thanks again to Steve at East Bay Muscle Cars, you and your crew do great work.
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/004/998765372_swpNr-M.jpg
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/007/998765482_Watg6-M.jpg
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/027-2/998771209_PQMSq-M.jpg
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/75/998787475_nA5Fj-M.jpg
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/79/998787669_snztP-M.jpg
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/90/998787977_UxLaK-M.jpg
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/86/998787876_WVktB-M.jpg
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/81/998787759_U8k7t-M.jpg

[Flash68]

Beautiful car!

Did you not like the Spintechs? Which version did you have?

Hope to see your car around soon...

[torino420]

Beautiful car!

Did you not like the Spintechs? Which version did you have?

Hope to see your car around soon...
Thank You!

I love the Spintech sound but looking to quiet it down some. I like to take her out for early morning cruises but want to do so without waking my family up. :rolleyes:

[tones2SS]

VERY NICE!!! Your car looks awesome.:thumbsup: :cheers:

[EBMC]

The mini tub project is now complete. Now time to build some tailpipes. Will be replacing the Spintechs with Magnaflows.

thanks again to Steve at East Bay Muscle Cars, you and your crew do great work.
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/004/998765372_swpNr-M.jpg
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/007/998765482_Watg6-M.jpg
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/027-2/998771209_PQMSq-M.jpg
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/75/998787475_nA5Fj-M.jpg
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/79/998787669_snztP-M.jpg
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/90/998787977_UxLaK-M.jpg
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/86/998787876_WVktB-M.jpg
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/81/998787759_U8k7t-M.jpg

Thanks Jason, We really enjoyed working on the car. Always up for doing different body styles!

[Nick.V70]

Looks great!!!

Is that a shock rezy I see in this pic?

http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/007/998765482_Watg6-M.jpg

[torino420]

Looks great!!!

Is that a shock rezy I see in this pic?

http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/007/998765482_Watg6-M.jpg
thanks Nick, no that is the fuel pump.

[chunger]

Jason,

What did you do with your old rims/tires?

-chunger
'68 Ranchero 500
'70 Cougar XR-7 Convertible
'98 Mustang GT Convertible

[torino420]

Jason,

What did you do with your old rims/tires?

-chunger
'68 Ranchero 500
'70 Cougar XR-7 Convertible
'98 Mustang GT Convertible
Still have them, I plan on cleaning them up this weekend and craigslisting them.
Interested?

[chunger]

Still have them, I plan on cleaning them up this weekend and craigslisting them.
Interested?

Yep, maybe. PM sent.

-chunger

[torino420]

I've been working on the exhaust slowly but surely and got the new mufflers installed late Friday night. The old ones were mounted pretty low so I used some modified S bends to get them tucked up about 2 inches higher.
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/P1010271-Large/1015250520_Yr3GJ-L.jpg
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/P1010272-Large/1015250562_wqmvR-L.jpg
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/P1010277-Large/1015250662_7QU87-L.jpg

Now on to the real fun part....the tailpipes! I used parts of my old tailpipes to help get up and over the axle, then started on getting around the coilovers, panhard bar, etc. After fiddling with a couple different ways, I think i have it the way I want it. Although the clearance to the panhard bar on the drivers side is only about 2 inches, not sure if that will be enough. I may even notch the exhaust a tad for a little more clearance. Keep in mind, the car is at ride height in these pictures.

I also thought about coming down behind the housing in between it and the panhard bar but trying to avoid that now. I think I would need alot more clearance to the panhard bar plus I would have to sharply come back up to bring the tailpipes towards the rear.
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/P1010303-Large/1015250947_AK4rD-L.jpg
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/P1010304-Large/1015250987_uNLaA-L-1.jpg

.......and my little helper.
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/P1010302-Large/1015250927_qZakN-L.jpg

[MoparCar]

Nice job!
How's the handling with the DSE rear universal application install?

Thanks, Wes

[torino420]

Nice job!
How's the handling with the DSE rear universal application install?

Thanks, Wes

thanks,

I haven't had time to drive it since its been home. Once the exhaust is done I will put some more miles on it, hopefully this weekend. Breaking in new gears so have to take it easy for a little longer.

[EBMC]

Lookin good Jason! Let me know if you need anything.
-Steve

[tones2SS]

Great car. That exhaust is AWESOME!! Nice job.:thumbsup: :cheers:

[MoparCar]

Jason and/or Steve,
Next time you are under the car fitting the exhaust could you do me a favor and measure the approximate center to center lengths of the upper and lower control arms and the panhard bar length? Also I know you mentioned it was a normal DSE Camaro Quadralink you adapted, can I assume a 1st gen kit that was adapted.

Again, just looking at doing the same on my Mopar project and would like to make some comparison measurements.

Thanks and nice work!
Wes

[torino420]

Jason and/or Steve,
Next time you are under the car fitting the exhaust could you do me a favor and measure the approximate center to center lengths of the upper and lower control arms and the panhard bar length? Also I know you mentioned it was a normal DSE Camaro Quadralink you adapted, can I assume a 1st gen kit that was adapted.

Again, just looking at doing the same on my Mopar project and would like to make some comparison measurements.

Thanks and nice work!
Wes
Lowers-24.5"
Uppers-12.5"
Panhard 38.75"

[MoparCar]

Lowers-24.5"
Uppers-12.5"
Panhard 38.75"

Thanks!!!
Wes

[srh3trinity]

Great looking car. It is a very nice color green, the stance is perfect and the wheel color and style are spot on.

[torino420]

Great looking car. It is a very nice color green, the stance is perfect and the wheel color and style are spot on.
thanks, choosing the wheel's was the hardest part, lost many Z's on that one :)

[Flash68]

Nice exhaust work Jason. Super clean.

I wanna see this car in person ASAP! :woot:

[WSSix]

Glad to see it done. The car looks great sitting on its wheels again.

[Nick.V70]

Nice exhaust!!

Can't wait to see it in person sun.

[torino420]

Got the tailpipes completed Friday night. I really like the sound of the Magnaflows, a couple notches quieter then the spintechs plus a more unique sound at idle.

Dave, it was great to meet you and see your car yesterday, love the camaro!
Nick if you were at the show, sorry I missed you. We'll have to meet up sometime. I could always cruise out to Livermore sometime, maybe when Dave installs his mufflers? :) Let me know.

http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/P1010310-Large/1022178321_TtG5n-L.jpg
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/P1010315-Large/1024798511_3Z9N9-L.jpg
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/P1010318-Large/1024804645_fHouk-L.jpg

[tones2SS]

Nice car. The tail exhaust came out awesome!:thumbsup: :cheers:

[Flash68]

Jason, great meeting you too and seeing the Torino yesterday. This is a super sweet car. It's too bad 99% of the people at the show weren't able to appreciate the DSE 4 link underneath there and how nice that came out. I could not believe your paint job is about 20 years old either!

And as much as I like a loud obnoxious car, this has a great rumble to it and fits the car well. Very nicely done.

We will have to meet up with Nick here soon definitely. Gotta get his Chevelle finished! :D

[Nick.V70]

Got the tailpipes completed Friday night. I really like the sound of the Magnaflows, a couple notches quieter then the spintechs plus a more unique sound at idle.

Dave, it was great to meet you and see your car yesterday, love the camaro!
Nick if you were at the show, sorry I missed you. We'll have to meet up sometime. I could always cruise out to Livermore sometime, maybe when Dave installs his mufflers? :) Let me know.


Yea I walked past your car and took some pics but it was when the winers drove up first strret so no one was around when I found your car. I got your PM too. Yea that would be great if you want to drive over the hill to my place if I end up helping Dave on his.


Dave- you tell me if you want to get those mufflers on.

[V8TV]

Great looking car! Nice work! :cheers:

[Flash68]

Yea I walked past your car and took some pics but it was when the winers drove up first strret so no one was around when I found your car. I got your PM too. Yea that would be great if you want to drive over the hill to my place if I end up helping Dave on his.


Dave- you tell me if you want to get those mufflers on.

Based on some of those other winners I thought the Torino was deserving of an award. Seriously that thing is sharp.

Yep, I was gonna hit you guys up about your schedules for later this week. Maybe Thurs or Friday.

[torino420]

yea let me know, I have to pick up my daughter both Thursday and Friday after work here in Tracy, so that may complicate things but maybe we can work something out.

[torino420]

Great looking car! Nice work! :cheers:
thank you!

[Nick.V70]

Here are a couple pics I took of your car....


http://www.norcaltruck.com/01_misc_pic/shows/Livermore%20Car%20Show%209-26-10/torino420%2001.JPG

http://www.norcaltruck.com/01_misc_pic/shows/Livermore%20Car%20Show%209-26-10/torino420%2002.JPG

http://www.norcaltruck.com/01_misc_pic/shows/Livermore%20Car%20Show%209-26-10/torino420%2003.JPG

[torino420]

Right on, thanks for posting. :thumbsup:

[ja.stoner63]

SWEET:thumbsup:

[Nick.V70]

No prob....:cheers:

[EBMC]

I may be a little biased, but that was one of my favorite cars at the show!;)

[torino420]

I may be a little biased, but that was one of my favorite cars at the show!;)

lol, thanks Steve. It was good chatting with you and Ryan (think that was his name)

[Nick.V70]

Great to meet you on Sat. and have you hang out with your car :cheers:

I say YES on the spoiler ...

http://www.norcaltruck.com/01_misc_pic/misc/Dave_Jason%20cars/IMG_0136.JPG

http://www.norcaltruck.com/01_misc_pic/misc/Dave_Jason%20cars/IMG_0138.JPG

http://www.norcaltruck.com/01_misc_pic/misc/Dave_Jason%20cars/IMG_0141.JPG

[torino420]

Likewise Nick....yea I think that spoiler might work for me.

[Nick.V70]

It just completes that over all look the car already has going...

[EBMC]

I like the spoiler!:thumbsup:

[tones2SS]

I'm digging the spoiler as well.:thumbsup:

[Flash68]

Jason, I like the spoiler too. Could just even go with a flat/matte black version for a lot less.

[skatinjay27]

yeah the spoiler looks good!

i say add a spoiler -loss a licence plate...

[torino420]

Jason, I like the spoiler too. Could just even go with a flat/matte black version for a lot less.
That's what I was thinking....flat black. I like CF but being the only CF piece on the car may look odd. Unless someone starts making CF parts for Torinos :rofl:

[torino420]

yeah the spoiler looks good!

i say add a spoiler -loss a licence plate...

Agreed, once I get the bumper fixed it would look okay without the plate (you can see the bottom portion has been pushed up in the center)....but gives the cops a reason to pull me over.:mad:

[FETorino]

I was thinking of trying one of those on mine. 67-68? or 69?

[chunger]

Sweet! What's the spoiler off of?

------------------------
chunger
'68 Ranchero 500
'70 Cougar XR-7 Convertible
'98 Mustang GT Convertible

[Flash68]

That's what I was thinking....flat black. I like CF but being the only CF piece on the car may look odd. Unless someone starts making CF parts for Torinos :rofl:

Yeah I'm with ya there. Plus it tucks under pretty good so you really can't tell it's CF I think.

I was thinking of trying one of those on mine. 67-68? or 69?

Sweet! What's the spoiler off of?

Yep, Camaro CF spoiler from Anvil.

https://www.anvilauto.com/product_detail.php?product=fspoiler

[torino420]

I was thinking of trying one of those on mine. 67-68? or 69?

67-68

I was going to measure the one that is on Dave's car but then Nick said he had a new one on the shelf, so we grabbed that one to see how it would look.

I got the idea from another forum where a guy said he put a 68 Camaro front spoiler on his 68 or 69 Montego.

[Nick.V70]

Anvil told me that the 67-69 are the same as far as you adding it to another car, but on the Camaro's there is a small bend needed for the 67-68 / 69 split. Not sure what all it's reason but they said if mounding it on another car all together it didn't matter at all so 67-69 is fine.

I agree that a satin black would look killer on your Torino.

[torino420]

Cool, thanks for the info Nick.

[chunger]

So, I happened to look under the front of a 68 Camaro with a spoiler last night at a cruise. I noticed it has 3 support rods that brace and help stiffen it. Have you mocked that up yet?

Now, you got me looking at those spoilers too!

[torino420]

So, I happened to look under the front of a 68 Camaro with a spoiler last night at a cruise. I noticed it has 3 support rods that brace and help stiffen it. Have you mocked that up yet?

Now, you got me looking at those spoilers too!

lol, nope haven't ordered it yet. The kit with the 3 rods is only like 15 bucks so it is worth buying to see if i can make them work.

Daves car has them and it definitely stiffens the spoiler up!

[torino420]

Since the new wheels/tires and rear suspension I've had a very slight vibration around 70MPH, just had all 4 tires road forced balanced. A couple of the tires had to be rotated on the wheel about 180 degrees, will test drive it later today or in the morning. Hope that does it!

[chunger]

Could it be driveline related? Ever have the driveshaft balenced? Sure you got the angles compatible between the trans and rearend?

Sometimes these are the hardest things to track down. Good luck!

[torino420]

Could it be driveline related? Ever have the driveshaft balenced? Sure you got the angles compatible between the trans and rearend?

Sometimes these are the hardest things to track down. Good luck!

Absolutey! The driveshaft has been in there since the TKO swap and its an aftermarket aluminum piece and is balanced. I didn't have any vibration issues before the new tires and 4 link.

If its not the tires then Steve will double check the driveline angles. I just hope its the tires! Will know later this morning.

[Flash68]

Bummer. Hope it's a quick/cheap solution!

[torino420]

still have the vibration :(
Will rotate the driveshaft 180 and see if that helps.

Get it up to 70+ and you really feel it in the butt, put in the clutch and it still vibrates.

[chunger]

Oh Boy. That's no fun. Good luck tracking it down.

What's the next step?

[torino420]

Oh Boy. That's no fun. Good luck tracking it down.

What's the next step?

I'll rotate the drive shaft 180 degrees on the rear, I've read that can sometimes fix odd vibration issues. Something quick and simple to try.

If that doesn't then Steve will check the drive line angles, he told me he would go over everything with a fine tooth come to fix it. I know I'm in good hands. :thumbsup:

[torino420]

Vibration gone! Rotating the driveshaft 180 degree's did it. phew!!

[chunger]

Nice! I love it when a plan comes together!

[torino420]

I finally got the new QA1 Stocker Star front shocks and installed them yesterday replacing the 20 or so year old KYBs. No surprise they ride much better even on the lowest setting, they are 12 way adjustable so I will stiffen them up a notch or two and see how that works.
http://torino420.smugmug.com/Torino-Pictures/MiniTub/MiniTub/P1010394-Large/1051456340_rsPrQ-M.jpg

[Flash68]

Vibration gone! Rotating the driveshaft 180 degree's did it. phew!!

Very nice! Glad it was an a easy fix.

[LowchevyII]

hot damn. i just noticed this thread and looked through it. All I can say it wow man. The car looks great! The wheels are spot on. Love it!

[torino420]

hot damn. i just noticed this thread and looked through it. All I can say it wow man. The car looks great! The wheels are spot on. Love it!

thanks alot!

[Flash68]

J, what's the next mod here?

You get that front spoiler on there yet? :unibrow:

[mdprovee]

Love your car, and looking forward to seeing it around.

[torino420]

J, what's the next mod here?

You get that front spoiler on there yet? :unibrow:
I did pick up the spoiler but I realized I really need to fix or replace my bumper since the center is bent up quite a bit. A new one is around $500.

Maybe we can put it on the lift at Nicks and have a few guys hang from it :rofl: You can see it right below the license plate, much more noticeable without the license plate too.
http://www.norcaltruck.com/01_misc_pic/misc/Dave_Jason%20cars/IMG_0141.JPG

[torino420]

Love your car, and looking forward to seeing it around.

thank you!

[chunger]

I did pick up the spoiler but I realized I really need to fix or replace my bumper since the center is bent up quite a bit. A new one is around $500.

Sadly, this is all too common for our year Torinos/Ranchero. My bumper is bent up, exactly as yours is. The 'good news' most bumper shops can address that as part of the chroming process. I know Superior Polishing in San Jose includes straightening with their chrome jobs. They've brought back some majorly mangled ones that I've seen!

[torino420]

Sadly, this is all too common for our year Torinos/Ranchero. My bumper is bent up, exactly as yours is. The 'good news' most bumper shops can address that as part of the chroming process. I know Superior Polishing in San Jose includes straightening with their chrome jobs. They've brought back some majorly mangled ones that I've seen!
good to know Charles, thanks for the tip. I will try to contact them. I'll see if anyone is closer too.

[Flash68]

Hmm. Didn't even notice that before.. I think that's because it looks to be a very nicely performed and centered symmetrical bend job. :D

[Nick.V70]

I did pick up the spoiler but I realized I really need to fix or replace my bumper since the center is bent up quite a bit. A new one is around $500.

Maybe we can put it on the lift at Nicks and have a few guys hang from it :rofl: You can see it right below the license plate, much more noticeable without the license plate too.
http://www.norcaltruck.com/01_misc_pic/misc/Dave_Jason%20cars/IMG_0141.JPG


We can try to pull it out to be as close as possible for now till you get a new one. The worst is we can go too far and it will look like you have a spoiler...then send the other back:thumbsup: :lol:

[torino420]

We can try to pull it out to be as close as possible for now till you get a new one. The worst is we can go too far and it will look like you have a spoiler...then send the other back:thumbsup: :lol:
ROFL :)

[MoparCar]

How's the handling with the DSE rear after you've driven it for bit now?
Thanks-Wes

[torino420]

How's the handling with the DSE rear after you've driven it for bit now?
Thanks-Wes

big difference, firm ride but no harshness like the leaf springs.

[rwhite692]

Jason, Steve, I somehow missed this entire thread.

Beautiful car, and great work on the DSE Qlink adaptation and mini-tubbing.

Rob

[EBMC]

Thanks Rob, we really enjoyed putting this combo together with Jason. It's not often you get a car as unique and cool as this to do something a little different!

[torino420]

Jason, Steve, I somehow missed this entire thread.

Beautiful car, and great work on the DSE Qlink adaptation and mini-tubbing.

Rob

thanks Rob! I checked out your shop build thread, love it! I drive by there often.

[rwhite692]

thanks Rob! I checked out your shop build thread, love it! I drive by there often.

Well hey Jason just stop by anytime you see me out there, we can crack open a couple beers.

[MoparCar]

big difference, firm ride but no harshness like the leaf springs.

Bought and received a DSE quadralink kit during their black Friday sale. Partly because of your build thread (and the Red Devil Camaro)!

This is for a Mopar project, so just like yourself I'll be making it fit. Top notch parts and communication so far from DSE. They are truly interested in the project you're building.

The quality of the DSE parts is awesome. Much heavier and bigger than I expected. I ordered the LCAs and panhard bar un-welded and long so I can adapt. I started with a 1st Gen Camaro kit.

Thanks, Wes

[conekiller13]

Man.....that's a nice ride....for a Ford.....:D


That's pretty cool adapting the Quadralink for Your application. It's that kind of determination that helps drive us all. If they don't make it......make it yourself! Very nice build and good lookin' to boot.:thumbsup:

[torino420]

Bought and received a DSE quadralink kit during their black Friday sale. Partly because of your build thread (and the Red Devil Camaro)!

This is for a Mopar project, so just like yourself I'll be making it fit. Top notch parts and communication so far from DSE. They are truly interested in the project you're building.

The quality of the DSE parts is awesome. Much heavier and bigger than I expected. I ordered the LCAs and panhard bar un-welded and long so I can adapt. I started with a 1st Gen Camaro kit.

Thanks, Wes
Awesome! look forward to watching the build.

[EBMC]

Awesome! look forward to watching the build.

x2!!!

[MoparCar]

Hopefully in a month or so I can purchase my front suspension (probably XV Motorsports) and then I can set my final ride height so I can fabricate the suspension points on the quadralink. I may have some questions for you when I get to the installation!

Thanks!
Wes

[jr4452]

Great car! I'm kinda new to the forum and still surfin around checkin out builds. Being a Ford guy, this thin caught my eye, LOVE IT! It's cool seeing different Fords out there! Maybe I'll bump into you someplace, From up in the foothills here, use to work in Tracy.

John

[67XR7]

Wow just read through the whole thread and it makes me like this Torino even more!

[torino420]

thanks guys!

[Flash68]

Jason, any new mods or plans for this car?

Guys, I've seen this one in person and it looks and sounds killer. Don't see a Quadralinked Torino every day ya know.... :thumbsup:

[torino420]

Jason, any new mods or plans for this car?

Guys, I've seen this one in person and it looks and sounds killer. Don't see a Quadralinked Torino every day ya know.... :thumbsup:

Hey Dave,

The only thing I did to it this year was remove the detroit locker and replaced it with a truetrac. The DL got much more noticeable since the mini tub so I got tired of all the clunking, banging and jerking. I made a u turn in it earlier this year and it banged so hard I was waiting for a wheel to fall off or something. :rofl: I'm really happy with how quiet it is now with the TT.

Was planning on re wiring the whole car with a Ron Francis kit this winter but the wife and I are talking about moving so now I'm starting to put some time in to our house getting it ready to put on the market.

Still need to keep a close eye on the roller lifters, they are approaching their estimated street life mileage. They will get replaced with more street able solid rollers like the Comps Endure-X lifters or something similar. At that point probably replace the valve springs, maybe put a RR oil pan on it as well.

Like I said lots of things that I want to do just not all the time and $$ for it right now.

[jr4452]

Like I said lots of things that I want to do just not all the time and $$ for it right now.

Boy.... I know that feeling!!! Love this car though!

[jarhead]

I was looking at the last posted date on this Jason...

time for an update :thumbsup:

[torino420]

Last July we took advantage of the bottom of the housing market and sold our house of 12 years and bought a place 3 miles away that's on an acre lot. It's an older house but a nicely layed out one story with a 3 car garage in a very nice neighborhood. The house is keeping me very busy, the only time I seem to relax is when we take our motorhome out camping. Other then that between house projects and yard work, my weekends are super busy. Like the Torino, my wish list is very long for the house. A shop eventually is one of them to house the motorhome among other things.
The kitchen was bone stock 1980 so that was the first thing we did, the new kitchen was completed right before Christmas along with nearly 800 square feet of tile in the kitchen, dining room, and entry way. I removed 4500 pounds of ugly 1980 italian tile from the dining room and entry way.
Before:
http://torino.smugmug.com/Other/New-House/Camera-Awesome-Photos/i-TJXq9NH/0/L/Before-L.jpg
After:
http://torino.smugmug.com/Other/New-House/Camera-Awesome-Photos/i-d48SsH8/0/L/After-L.jpg

I knew my roller lifters were starting to wear, so right after we moved I tore the top end apart to replace them with some Crower HIPPOS. Earlier in the year a found a screaming deal on a pair of AFR 205 heads and grabbed them. I've wanted to replace my old iron World Product SR heads for a while so this was a good time to do it. Mainly looking for more of a modern design head with the benefits of them being aluminum. I had carpel tunnel surgery back in April and was off work for two weeks. The second week I was doing pretty good so spent a lot of time on the car and got it running again.

As always, there are more plans for the car but other things get in the way. It's my life long project :)

that's it for now.

[jarhead]

Nice DIY upgrades in the kitchen!

Engine upgrades sound good too.

I know what you mean about other projects, my wife has a list for me :confused18:

[torino420]

Nice DIY upgrades in the kitchen!

Engine upgrades sound good too.

I know what you mean about other projects, my wife has a list for me :confused18:

Well i certainly didn't do the kitchen myself, not something I wanted to try for the first time. :)

The tile removal was a bear! I ached for a week.

[chunger]

Like the kitchen remodel!

So, how do you like the heads?

[torino420]

Like the kitchen remodel!

So, how do you like the heads?

thanks Chuck, I like them. After more seat time, I've definitely noticed a power increase, seems more torque down low but that is probably do to swapping the victor for the rpm air gap.