My '68 Camaro Project "Pro Vintage"

[CrossRamRich]

Hello -- my name is Rich Bermea and I own and operate Road Touring Customs (www.roadtouringcustoms.com) in the Garlic Capital city of Gilroy, CA. I build and restore muscle cars specializing in Camaros. After finishing a black 69 Camaro for a good friend that debuted at SEMA last month, I can finally start making some progress on my own car, which has been taking a back seat for quite awhile!

"Pro Vintage" is my version of a 68 Camaro with a Smokey Yunick theme with a mix of both vintage and some modern pro-touring goodies. Here is my project plan with a motor sneak peak:

355" sbc -- built by my 21 yr old protege Brad Ferrier
10.5:1 JE pistons
Scat 6" rods
Isky solid lifter Z-85 cam
Crossram intake with (2) 390cfm Holley carbs
Ported angle-plug Camel Back heads
Hooker Super Comp 2" primary headers
Schoenfeld 3.5" exhaust w/ side exit
Canton RR oil pan
M-21 trans w/ Ram clutch
Ford 9" w/ 4.11 gears
Gen 2 upper/lower control arms
L&H Kustoms spindles
Baer SS4 brakes
Herb Adams front sway bar
Fiberglass leaf springs
4 point Comp Engineering roll bar
15" Torq Thrust "D" wheels
BFG T/A tires

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff245/flash68/photo_002-2.jpg

More pics to come and my goal is get this running by end of 2011 and make it to RTTC III in 2012! :cheers:

[camcojb]

very cool project Rich. :thumbsup:

Jody

[Cris@JCG]

Very cool project Rich! Can't wait to see the progress.. I have one of those X-rams lying around here.. What HP are you expecting out of the motor??

[coolwelder62]

Cool man,Please show us more.:thumbsup:

[Sandbagger]

What is rttc III ? Any more pics :unibrow:

[Vegas69]

Old school is cool...:thumbsup: Two holley carbs, now there is a car your average Joe couldn't work on....:rofl:

[fleetus macmullitz]

That motor should make some very interesting noises. :thumbsup:

[Steve88]

I will be interested to see the progress on this build!! I am doing something similar with my car. I have a 67 Firebird and I am planning on it having a vintage road race type of look on the outside although the built Grand National turbo V6 doesn't really carry the theme on the inside!!:lol:

[Flash68]

Rich and I are also working on my Camaro at his shop.. so I am one of the guys who prevents him from making more progress on his own car. :unibrow: He doesn't post as much as many of us so I told him I'd help his threads along. I snapped these pics tonight. Enjoy.


Very cool project Rich! Can't wait to see the progress.. I have one of those X-rams lying around here.. What HP are you expecting out of the motor??

He told me hoping/expecting around 500ish.

What is rttc III ? Any more pics :unibrow:

Run To The Coast 3 at El Toro in early 2012!


http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff245/flash68/DSCF3063.jpg

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff245/flash68/DSCF3065.jpg

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff245/flash68/photo_002-2.jpg

[tones2SS]

Very cool Rich.

[speedshftr]

awsum car and engine setup

[lhkustoms]

Rich, hurry up and get this done buddy. :D :thumbsup:

[CrossRamRich]

Thanks for the interest guys. Should get some progress done this week. Be posting more pics towards the middle of the week.

[CrossRamRich]

Here's a link to the engine on the test stand before the cross ram and gold paint. :willy:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aTg3dYAqv9I

[waynieZ]

Great project. I checked it out motor sounds awesome.

[Flash68]

Forgot about that vid, Rich. :cheers:

aTg3dYAqv9I

[Flash68]

Rich got his 4 port regulator installed with a bracket he fabbed up. :thumbsup:

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff245/flash68/DSCF3123.jpg

[MarkM66]

Very cool. :thumbsup:

[tones2SS]

Very nice.:yes:

[CrossRamRich]

Well, thanks to my great friends at Marquez Design, I now have the piece I needed to complete my air cleaner fabrication! And after a great lunch with Pasqual an Judas, its seems mini tubs are comin' down the pipe.:D

[3SuperSports]

Can't wait to see it. I love the vintage stuff.

[DFRESH]

Love those cross ram intakes--I had one on my car when I was in high school--sold it way before I understood how cool they really were--like a bunch of other dumb things I did when I was 16. Love the double hump heads also---it's great to see some of those still around and being used. I would think that Dane (Rouge) would be your biggest fan on here for staying true to vintage--bet he will enjoy this a bunch also. Very cool stuff Rich--but hurry up and finish Dave's car---:lol:

Doug

[bingham72]

You had me at CROSS RAM. I love the vintage stuff.

[CrossRamRich]

Thanks for the interest guys. I have always appreciated smokey's work and his Camaro. More to come.:yes:

[Sieg]

Love that motor! Smokey would most likely approve. :thumbsup:

Could I constructively suggest Oetiker clamps on those fuel lines? Not period correct but they would sure give it a clean look.

http://www.oetiker.com/uploads/products/200x159__A3F4067C-9B3E-40A6-9BCE-592CD80EF348_bothjpg.jpg

[CrossRamRich]

Those clamps would be great! Where to buy? Thanks for input. Crazy name.

[Sieg]

Those clamps would be great! Where to buy? Thanks for input. Crazy name.

I bought a kit like this:
http://www.drillspot.com/products/318154/Oetiker_18500060_Hose_Clamp_Assortment?s=1
with the side and end crimp stype plier from a local industrial hose supply shop. The clamps are OEM standard on KTM motorcycles.

[Vegas69]

I do like the factory appearance of those clamps. The problem is servicability. With a cross ram and two carbs, it's safe to assume you will need to have them off for misc reasons.

[DIGI-TAILS]

Awesome project Rich!!!! Would love to see more... :D

[Sieg]

I do like the factory appearance of those clamps. The problem is servicability. With a cross ram and two carbs, it's safe to assume you will need to have them off for misc reasons.

Todd - Think of the Oetiker as similar to a zip-tie. Side cutters to remove, crimp to tension. The smaller clamps are pretty inexpensive (5-15 cents), they are almost as fast as zip ties.

They make some cool items: http://www.oetiker.com/content.asp?idNavig=7&l=4

[Vegas69]

I've used them on factory cars. If they are that cheap then I don't see a problem.

[CrossRamRich]

Awesome project Rich!!!! Would love to see more... :D

Thanks for checkin it out. I used your lights on Eric Davids Project Flashpoint(Nov. CHP)(Jan. CHP) I will be using them on this project as well as my latest Project Livewire.:thumbsup:

[Flash68]

Here is what Rich has been up to instead of working on "Pro Vintage" :lol:

XzXpQLECnsU

[lhkustoms]

Here is what Rich has been up to instead of working on "Pro Vintage" :lol:

XzXpQLECnsU

Nice one Dave I thought about posting the video I have from Saturday but you beat me to it

[Flash68]

I must say Rich does throw one hell of a party for kids and adults. I told him if there's ever a Run to the Bay (that has a nice ring to it :unibrow: ) that he is the designated host! :thumbsup:

[fleetus macmullitz]

Here is what Rich has been up to instead of working on "Pro Vintage" :lol:

XzXpQLECnsU

Flashdance?

:lol:

That was almost as painful as watching these guys...for different reasons altogether. :wow:

zBb9hTyLjfM

[GregWeld]

......... more beer required......

[CrossRamRich]

Them Nicholas boys are pretty good. I would love to breakdance against Todd!:cheers:

[Vegas69]

**** dude, I did the moon walk at 5. :unibrow: :rolleyes: :_paranoid

[Flash68]

This project has been further delayed since Big Rich has been sidetracked with this new toy :unibrow:

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff245/flash68/photo_003-2.jpg

[Vegas69]

Dual coolers.....:thumbsup: :unibrow:

[CrossRamRich]

"Zed's dead"!!! :lol:

[Flash68]

I told Rich he couldn't let Smokey go stagnant for a whole frickin calendar year... we barely made it. Some progress as of late! :thumbsup:

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff245/flash68/photo_003-6.jpg

Actual rear end will be wider track but just a test fit. 15x7 with 255/60.
http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff245/flash68/photo_002-8.jpg

Paint test panel. :unibrow:
http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff245/flash68/photo_001-13.jpg

[FETorino]

I really like the project. Glad to see you haven't given up on it. Love that cross ram.

I hope you don't mind me butting in on your carb choice but I've seen quite a few 2 x 390 or 2 x 450s done on some smaller inch motors and they are underwhelming. Believe it or not even on a 355 a pair of 660 centesquirters or 600vs 1850s usually work better. I may be talking out my A$$ since I've never run a crossram on a Chevy. Just a thought if the dyno doesn't produce what you want off the bat try a pair of 1850s they can be bought cheap.

BTW in my opinion that is one of the all time coolest looking induction systems the factories fielded.:thumbsup:

[CrossRamRich]

I really like the project. Glad to see you haven't given up on it. Love that cross ram.

I hope you don't mind me butting in on your carb choice but I've seen quite a few 2 x 390 or 2 x 450s done on some smaller inch motors and they are underwhelming. Believe it or not even on a 355 a pair of 660 centesquirters or 600vs 1850s usually work better. I may be talking out my A$$ since I've never run a crossram on a Chevy. Just a thought if the dyno doesn't produce what you want off the bat try a pair of 1850s they can be bought cheap.

BTW in my opinion that is one of the all time coolest looking induction systems the factories fielded.:thumbsup:

I hear ya, yes some of my friends have mixed feelings as well. The good thing is, the guy that sold me the carbs said if they don't workout he would exchange them for 600's. 780 cfm on a 355 running pump, not too bad. It's a cream puff:)

[Flash68]

This sumbitch is actually making some needed progress.

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff245/flash68/photo1-1.jpg

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff245/flash68/photo-16.jpg

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff245/flash68/photo2-3.jpg

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff245/flash68/photo3-4.jpg

[fleetus macmullitz]

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff245/flash68/photo-16.jpg



Mmm mmm good! :cool:

Soon it will be time for racin' that bad boy.

http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k156/wnyjazz/8751.jpg

[Flash68]

We got some paint!

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff245/flash68/photo5.jpg

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff245/flash68/photo6.jpg

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff245/flash68/photo7-1.jpg

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff245/flash68/photo8-1.jpg

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff245/flash68/photo9-1.jpg

[intocarss]

Never seen this build Thanks for bumping it AWESOME!!

[Flash68]

Never seen this build Thanks for bumping it AWESOME!!

That's because Rich is always busy working on other people's cars. :_paranoid :thumbsup:

He's finally making time for his own car and it will be a really cool build when he's done.

[sixnina]

I gotta get over there to see this thing in person I only work down the street from here! Very nice!

[califconstruct]

Smokey getting the roll bar completed. -
previously headliner was installed with a bit of sound dampener/insulation.


I was looking at your before pics, and wow, what a transformation!.. looks good Rich!.

[Flash68]

Nice, Art. Picking up the slack. :thumbsup:

Richie--looking great man! Can't wait to see this finished and wheel it. :unibrow:

[Flash68]

This son of a gun is lookin good and mean! :woot:

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff245/flash68/4130AC1D-2E79-43E1-B839-71D172BE0B5B-100-0000000182159B50.jpg

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff245/flash68/7E5A0FF5-8051-47AC-829A-FC62B441CE2A-100-000000013DC7ECD5.jpg

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff245/flash68/58EDB077-3DC2-4AFD-997A-88EB9AEA2A4F-100-000000011A96B7D1.jpg

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff245/flash68/9456CA73-0874-4125-8898-16A2A6C5BC27-100-000000016026C57F.jpg

[Vince@Meanstreets]

dude,...almost thought those were dual big rig flappers on your trunk...it was a long day for me. looks good .

[Vince@Meanstreets]

btw digging the crossram

[badmatt]

So cool. Love this thing!

Matt

[GregWeld]

Yes Dave you're right! HE does look big and mean! :lol:


L O V E it!


I might have to stop and see it in person!
DG - text or email me the shop address.:thumbsup:

[Flash68]

Yeah this thing is gonna be so much fun. Happy for Rich he finally is getting around to his OWN project for once.

Check your phone for his info.

[89 RS]

Looking dang cool, love the combination of old school with modern engineering...can't wait to see this run!

[scottysimp7]

Richie, I say your oil catch can should be fabricated out of a bud light bottle. True to the roots! Looking good :thumbsup:

[David Pozzi]

Where's the "like" button???

[intocarss]

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y3/real3/super-like-btn.png

[frojoe]

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y3/real3/super-like-btn.png

I can't click it!





:P

[Flash68]

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff245/flash68/BD2C3F94-948E-43CA-9884-EB7FDA0A20B0-9388-00000DA375B73A3F_zpsfd590527.jpg

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff245/flash68/AAF30A2F-A5EE-4F8A-81D4-9A518673E6DA-9388-00000DA37C6830B1_zps8def7cd2.jpg

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff245/flash68/C70D9805-A898-4A4B-A899-8446A766F0CF-10201-00000EAFE2AEBFA2_zpsed4ad42b.jpg

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff245/flash68/34036B44-C6BB-40C1-98A5-E369B4E17301-10201-00000EAFEB6D90D6_zpse56571a8.jpg

[Sieg]

Those look like control arms I can afford! :D A little concept insight beyond the pictures would be appreciated. :poke: I'm assuming this is how the trans-am boys eliminated flex back in the day?

[lhkustoms]

Scott it's a way to eliminate flex but also keep the factory arms from cracking under load. The stamped arms tend to crack right behind the ball joint so plating the underside keeps the loads more evenly distributed. I've done a few different sets like this. Cheap way to add strength to the LCA's

[CrossRamRich]

Thanks for taking up the slack boys, I've been busy.

[coolwelder62]

I can't click it!





:PI like,Awesome.

[intocarss]

Those look like control arms I can afford! :D I agree.. fits my budget also

[califconstruct]

http://i477.photobucket.com/albums/rr131/califconstruct/Smokey/project175.jpg

fitted with a taller ball joint.

[Nessumsar]

My my, what beefy arms you have there Rich!

Did you curve the lower arms any more to gain some extra frame clearance, and are you planning on sectioning the frame into the body?

I'm looking forward to what else you have planned. :cheers:

[CrossRamRich]

My my, what beefy arms you have there Rich!

Did you curve the lower arms any more to gain some extra frame clearance, and are you planning on sectioning the frame into the body?

I'm looking forward to what else you have planned. :cheers:

I am going to test fit the sub without body bushings, i did not change the angle on the lower arm, however I might have to adjust the upper ball joint angle. I am planning on using a stock height spindle as I have modded the control points. There is a 2 inch drop spindle from CPP that has 12 inch brakes that has caught my eye. My wheels are 15 x 7 with a 3.5 backspace, so it should work without outer tie rod issues. Thousand thanks to Dave Pozzi for his advice on this one. I will be using an IROC steering box and pump, and modify the centerlink for bumpsteer correction. Fox shocks, 700# springs, and Herb Adams 1" sway bar. Should be fun!!!!:beavis:

[jlwdvm]

Similar concept to what I am doing with my 69 Trans Am clone. Are you going with aftermarket upper control arms, and did you bend your own roll cage?

[CrossRamRich]

Similar concept to what I am doing with my 69 Trans Am clone. Are you going with aftermarket upper control arms, and did you bend your own roll cage?
Stock uppers with offset shafts and steel bushings. 1/2 inch taller ball joints on upper and lower. Roll bar started as a 6 point Comp Eng. piece. Changed a few bars to my liking. Don't think I will cage it. :action-smiley-027:

[jlwdvm]

Gulstrand mod for the upper a-arm mount? Did you get part numbers for ball joints and offset shaft from Pozz's web site? How was the fit on the Comp engineering main hoop? I thought about going with that hoop and maybe bending some rear bars to save the back seat area. Thanks for the info!

[Track Junky]

Love this old school stuff Rich. LCA's are awesome. Smokey would be proud :thumbsup:

[Flash68]

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff245/flash68/B1146F2D-AC26-44F1-81B0-36BF2966F715-422-00000108478EC15D_zps1729992f.jpg

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff245/flash68/834C3309-85A6-44B3-8CB3-07D89BD84BF0-422-000001084D669778_zps3dbd9be6.jpg

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff245/flash68/A86874A3-2A3B-4DBA-A7BC-166C5210E1AC-422-0000010851A00D2C_zpsd37b0b28.jpg

[CrossRamRich]

Gulstrand mod for the upper a-arm mount? Did you get part numbers for ball joints and offset shaft from Pozz's web site? How was the fit on the Comp engineering main hoop? I thought about going with that hoop and maybe bending some rear bars to save the back seat area. Thanks for the info!

It's a Pozzi version of the G mod. I bought the ball joints from Pozzi, he knows the part number, the offset shafts were from Global West back in '99. The bushings are AFCO. I think you can buy this set up in a kit form from AFCO. The main hoop is great, I just needs to be cut down to fit. You have to make floor mounts for inner rockers. They give you plenty of bars to get creative. They are heavy. I plan to use thinner gauge for other bars. :thankyou:

[CrossRamRich]

Love this old school stuff Rich. LCA's are awesome. Smokey would be proud :thumbsup:

:thankyou:

[Roberts68]

Besides the upper control arm mounts and welding the seams is there anything else you are doing with the stock sub?

I'm just about to embark on swapping my stock sub for another stock one I sourced so any hints or ideas are appreciated.:thankyou:

I really appreciate what you are doing with this Camaro with vintage TA tricks paying homage as opposed to just :G-Dub: and waiting for the latest and greatest mail order package etc...

:peepwall: Not that there is anything wrong with that approach...:whistling:

Just a quick image copy/paste out of admiration...http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e214/YamaCowboy/Camaro/three4_zps0b576baf.jpg

My car was originally gold so the Smokey theme has always had an appeal to me besides the obvious nod to the icon himself. Yours is going to be the ultimate with that motor.

[Sieg]

This is lighting a little fire under me as I have a spare sub and control arms sitting in the garage.

Dave what's the deal posting this silly mini pic?
http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff245/flash68/A86874A3-2A3B-4DBA-A7BC-166C5210E1AC-422-0000010851A00D2C_zpsd37b0b28.jpg
My little brain and old eyes are not capable of extracting details..............:bitchslap: :D

Rich - Did you match the gauge of the control arm for the reinforcing stock?

Pre-shape the plates to fit the arm or tack and clamp as you go?

Upper mounts were cut and lowered 3/4" and moved .25-.5" rearward?

Stock height upper ball-joint?

You started this thread right after I joined Lat-g and I'll never forget the wow factor impression I got from that pic of your motor.......and it still does. It's awesome to see this car taking shape and I absolutely love the direction you're going with it. :thumbsup:

[Flash68]

Dave what's the deal posting this silly mini pic?
http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff245/flash68/A86874A3-2A3B-4DBA-A7BC-166C5210E1AC-422-0000010851A00D2C_zpsd37b0b28.jpg
My little brain and old eyes are not capable of extracting details..............:bitchslap: :D



Hey man it's not cool to shoot the messenger. I just post what is sent to me. :action-smiley-027:

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff245/flash68/photo_002-2.jpg

[Sieg]

Hey man it's not cool to shoot the messenger. I just post what is sent to me. :action-smiley-027:

:peepwall: I'm sorry! Didn't know if you were the publisher or photog. :sieg:

Rich, one of these days could you send your assistant a bigger pic of the upper arm mount? If Rob's your photog, never mind. :D

[Flash68]

:peepwall: I'm sorry! Didn't know if you were the publisher or photog. :sieg:

Rich, one of these days could you send your assistant a bigger pic of the upper arm mount? If Rob's your photog, never mind. :D

:D I'll try to remember to get some better pics when I'm down there next weekend.

Just imagine the sweet photos combining Rich's image quality and Rob's lighting techniques. :bitchslap:

[Sieg]

:D I'll try to remember to get some better pics when I'm down there next weekend.

Just imagine the sweet photos combining Rich's image quality and Rob's lighting techniques. :bitchslap:

Thanks! :thumbsup:

Uh, that could re-write the definition of abstract. :D

[Flash68]

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff245/flash68/09B0571A-266E-4209-90F1-B6D2D274CFD5-1214-0000029EE8DF74C6_zps9ac2c9b8.jpg

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff245/flash68/E31CBBE5-8773-4626-A2BD-A05C7845B511-1214-0000029EEE4BEE54_zpsa2dc42db.jpg

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff245/flash68/7F02AA27-20A5-4E16-8069-8A4B21598C1D-1214-0000029EF298A445_zpsc7ab88ac.jpg

[Sieg]

Record breaking response time!! :thankyou:

[CrossRamRich]

I cut the template from construction paper, went to the scrap yard and found some 10 gauge. Plasma cut the piece a little big, tacked, clamped, and bent. Hit it with the trusty 4 1/2 inch grinder, then filed flat. Mocked the bushings, figured out the grease zerk location then welded them in. You could make them lighter by cutting holes, but I'm trying to achieve a period correct look. The uppers are getting a strap on the underside. All this and the iron headed crossram weighs a mint, so I'm hoping to save weight with aluminum brake caliper and hats.
The upper mount is technically a G mod and moved back 3/4 inch more. I built a template to hold the points after cutting everything free. I took alot of measurements before execution.
:cheers:

[jlwdvm]

What wheel-tire combo are you going with? Leafs for the rear as well?

[Sieg]

Thanks Rich, really appreciate it. :thumbsup:

Does the shock mount remain at the original "height"?

[CrossRamRich]

What wheel-tire combo are you going with? Leafs for the rear as well?

Wheels are old torque thrust d, 15x7 Chevy pattern, and 15x8 1/2 ford pattern. The tires for street will be Goodyear Billboard's, like the Cobra guys run. They are basically a wet traction race tire. I love the big paint markings.
Rear suspension is still a mystery, I have a few options still. This is where the Pro Touring will be induced. Maybe a carbon fiber torque arm with a watts link? Maybe fiberglass leaf springs. I do know it is a nine inch rear I just picked up with a 4:10 Detroit locker. Also scored a brand new in box Herb Adams sway bar.:)

[CrossRamRich]

Thanks Rich, really appreciate it. :thumbsup:

Does the shock mount remain at the original "height"?

The shock mount gets a shave and a tap into place. Probably about 3/8 down. Don't cut from frame. Just the top.:)

[CrossRamRich]

Besides the upper control arm mounts and welding the seams is there anything else you are doing with the stock sub?

I'm just about to embark on swapping my stock sub for another stock one I sourced so any hints or ideas are appreciated.:thankyou:

I really appreciate what you are doing with this Camaro with vintage TA tricks paying homage as opposed to just :G-Dub: and waiting for the latest and greatest mail order package etc...

:peepwall: Not that there is anything wrong with that approach...:whistling:

Just a quick image copy/paste out of admiration...http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e214/YamaCowboy/Camaro/three4_zps0b576baf.jpg

My car was originally gold so the Smokey theme has always had an appeal to me besides the obvious nod to the icon himself. Yours is going to be the ultimate with that motor.

Thanks for posting tha pic. My car will have that paint scheme and look, I did not bulge the fenders because its alot of work and I don't have much free time, as you can see how long it has taken to get here. I owe the Subframe engineering to Dave Pozzi, I picked his brain for days before I made a cut. He would gladly share with you aswell I'm sure. The only thing left to do is reinforce the sway bar mount on the frame itself. Fixing the bumpsteer is another big part of the equation, I will post that mod after its done. Thanks for the interest.:D

[Roberts68]

Thanks for posting that pic. My car will have that paint scheme and look, I did not bulge the fenders because its a lot of work and I don't have much free time, as you can see how long it has taken to get here. I owe the Subframe engineering to Dave Pozzi, I picked his brain for days before I made a cut. He would gladly share with you as well I'm sure. The only thing left to do is reinforce the sway bar mount on the frame itself. Fixing the bumpsteer is another big part of the equation, I will post that mod after its done. Thanks for the interest.:D

You are very welcome.:D

I thought I detected a subtle flare to the #13 '68 in that pic but wasn't sure. The shot I am pasting below really looks to me like the front is sloped more than stock but it might be an illusion of the two-tone or something. See how the top of the headlight appears to be below or at the top of the wheelwell? I never realized it before but as I wrote this I went and measured my '68 (attached garage:rolleyes: ) and there is only about an inch difference.

Yes, David Pozzi has made vast contributions to this game and if I am ever fortunate enough to shake his hand I will humbly offer him a cold beverage of his choice. He has responded to a few messages of mine over the years when I have waited for time, money and know-how to align in my favor. Funny how difficult it is for me to corral all three!

Reinforcing the swaybar does not sound like a bad idea and will certainly be added to my meager plan... so, :thankyou:

Here is another view:
http://cdn.speedhunters.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/three13_0kTn_28.jpg

Below in Red is a link to the article I nabbed them from which you may have seen or might appreciate if you haven't.

The Smokey clone is driven by Christi Edelbrock of the Edelbrock performance parts family according to the caption about 3/4ths of the page down.

Speedhunters: Trans Am Lives (http://www.speedhunters.com/2010/09/gallery_gt_gt_trans_am_lives/)

[CrossRamRich]

I have not been able to figure out the cuts on the front end, that is a mystery that Mike Eddy knows, and I respect it a secret. Christi and Mike were kind enough to let me and a good friend have an hour and a half with the car as Mike gave us the tour of all the cool things done to it. We got a lot of pics and video. I study them WEEKLY! I admit I am obsessed. I can't have the real one so build one close to it. Call it a Tribute as I admire the pure awesomness of a brilliant mind applied to the most bitchen muscle car on the planet!:thumbsup:

[DEIGuy38]

Stock uppers with offset shafts and steel bushings. 1/2 inch taller ball joints on upper and lower. :action-smiley-027:

What are you doing for spindles, steering arms and fixing bump steer. I was going to use 1/2" taller upper and lower ball joints and Mark from SC&C told me the taller lower balljoint would make the bump steer worse.

Smokey Yunick was one of the best there was. I got to meet him a few times here in Sacramento and the Infield at Charlotte Motor Speedway at a Cup Race

[CrossRamRich]

What are you doing for spindles, steering arms and fixing bump steer. I was going to use 1/2" taller upper and lower ball joints and Mark from SC&C told me the taller lower balljoint would make the bump steer worse.

Smokey Yunick was one of the best there was. I got to meet him a few times here in Sacramento and the Infield at Charlotte Motor Speedway at a Cup Race

The spindles will be CPP forged, stock length, 2 inch drop. I will use their aluminum hub aswell. Wilwood SL4 calipers, 11.75x 1 1/4 rotors, and aluminum hats. Stock fast ratio steering arms (69 Camaro).
Yes, using these joints and the G mod apparently hurt bumpsteer (Pozzi website has info). I will be modifying the centerlink by changing the inner tie rod mounting position. This has been done for years apparently, as it was done by Smokey back in 1967 on his first Camaro. After the alignment is given and ride height is determined, I will do a bumpsteer check and then determine where that position will be. Lotsa work again, but well worth it.
That's awesome you got to meet him, that must have been cool.:)

[Flash68]

Rich asked me to post this pic of the Smokey bumpsteer correction from Hot Rod December 1967.

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff245/flash68/184E4196-4E3F-4227-A40E-6AC68E845D25-2467-000005345F9A0BB9_zps3b21bf26.jpg

[intocarss]

Saw this on Pozzi's site


http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y3/real3/67_STEERING_ARM_BEND_zps7ef80b73.jpg

[CrossRamRich]

Saw this on Pozzi's site


http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y3/real3/67_STEERING_ARM_BEND_zps7ef80b73.jpg

That is one way of gettin the job done. They do make 1/2 inch taller tie rod ends now. Same effect. You have to bump the car to get the real numbers. No springs, no shocks, no sway bar, just hubs and wheels. Pozzi was telling me he has seen over 1/2 " of toe change with some set ups. This is a huge problem with the stock engineering. Fixing the problem will change the whole dynamics of feedback the car will give. We have like 4 inches of travel. Can you imagine what those dudes do with those off road race trucks! :wow:

[CrossRamRich]

Rich asked me to post this pic of the Smokey bumpsteer correction from Hot Rod December 1967.

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff245/flash68/184E4196-4E3F-4227-A40E-6AC68E845D25-2467-000005345F9A0BB9_zps3b21bf26.jpg

Check out the boxed arm and bolted lower ball joint. Some crazy stuff there!

[Sieg]

Interested in your steering link mod process.

Modified steering links aren't available due to DOT regulations and liability??

[michaelh440]

I'm loving this build. I got my 67 from a good friend whose passed away. He loved Smokey and used to tell me tons of stories about him. When I bought the car from him, I also got a pair of holley 780's that went on the. I have really wanted to build a dual carb motor to put in that car for a while with those carbs. Great to see someone else likes that as well.

[CrossRamRich]

Interested in your steering link mod process.

Modified steering links aren't available due to DOT regulations and liability??

Unfortunately everything we do is considered for " Racing" purposes only. But there is always someone who blows it for everyone! Modified steering is out there, been available for years. Just trying to do it on my own. :)

[CrossRamRich]

I'm loving this build. I got my 67 from a good friend whose passed away. He loved Smokey and used to tell me tons of stories about him. When I bought the car from him, I also got a pair of holley 780's that went on the. I have really wanted to build a dual carb motor to put in that car for a while with those carbs. Great to see someone else likes that as well.

:thankyou:

[Flash68]

:popcorn2:

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff245/flash68/7FF223DE-276F-4C85-9C40-2A50DE2DBA6B-998-0000018D0309AF94_zpsdc0bfc21.jpg

[Roberts68]

Been blastin'? I have a freshly blasted stock sub in my garage right now too. Dropped off Wed and picked up Thursday. Factory welds are hideous!!:welder:

Those header primaries are massive looking! Pretty cool picture:thumbsup:

[Flash68]

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff245/flash68/ctrp_0801_02_zengine_building_changessmokey_yunick _spintron_zps1a877e67.jpg (http://s236.photobucket.com/user/flash68/media/ctrp_0801_02_zengine_building_changessmokey_yunick _spintron_zps1a877e67.jpg.html)

[Sieg]

Great photo! :thumbsup:

[Flash68]

:bigun2:

YxEaduYgAIs

[Neil B]

A cross-ram 302 with a 2,000 rpm idle? Now we're talkin'!

[Flash68]

A cross-ram 302 with a 2,000 rpm idle? Now we're talkin'!

I meant to bump the specs since it's been 5 years since posted. :)

355" sbc
10.5:1 JE pistons
Scat 6" rods
Isky solid lifter Z-85 cam
Crossram intake with (2) 390cfm Holley carbs
Ported angle-plug Camel Back heads
Hooker Super Comp 2" primary headers

[Chad-1stGen]

If only we could have that kind of throttle response with a flywheel, clutch and transmission attached (or flexplate, torque converter & trans)!!

[garymac69]

I have not previously seen this thread. Awesome build! I too love the Crossram and you might be interested in the setup I installed this year, combining the look and performance of the Crossram with benefits of EFI. I suppose I should put details of my setup on this site one day.............

Gary

[Neil B]

I have not previously seen this thread. Awesome build! I too love the Crossram and you might be interested in the setup I installed this year, combining the look and performance of the Crossram with benefits of EFI. I suppose I should put details of my setup on this site one day.............

Gary

That's awesome! I've had an Offenhauser cross ram sitting on the shelf for years waiting to try something like this. I think the current wave of self-contained TBI setups are ideal for this.

[Neil B]

I have not previously seen this thread. Awesome build! I too love the Crossram and you might be interested in the setup I installed this year, combining the look and performance of the Crossram with benefits of EFI. I suppose I should put details of my setup on this site one day.............

Gary

That's awesome! I've had an Offenhauser cross ram sitting on the shelf for years waiting to try something like this. I think the current wave of self-contained TBI setups are ideal for this.

[fleetus macmullitz]

I have not previously seen this thread. Awesome build! I too love the Crossram and you might be interested in the setup I installed this year, combining the look and performance of the Crossram with benefits of EFI. I suppose I should put details of my setup on this site one day.............

Gary

Yes you should. :thumbsup:

[Matt@BOS]

Garymac69, please, please, please share! We wouldn't be upset if we could hear it making some noises either. :lol:

[Spiffav8]

:bigun2:

YxEaduYgAIs

:Tomcat: :Tomcat: That's dope!

[Beechy]

Hi guys, long time lurker and first time poster......attached is my similar 68.
Built 2003 and driven daily except for the 7 years I spent in California. Anodized Aluminum interior, black leather seats. Warmed over 350 has prolly 50k miles on it now. Pic taken a year ago.
Tribute to Australian Touring Car raced by Norm Beechey.

Love the Smokey style engine build...his book is about the only one I've read since I left college in 1971.

Subscribed!

[WSSix]

Welcome Beechy. Be sure to start your own thread too so your car doesn't get lost in a separate one. It looks great!

[fleetus macmullitz]

Hi guys, long time lurker and first time poster......attached is my similar 68.
Built 2003 and driven daily except for the 7 years I spent in California. Anodized Aluminum interior, black leather seats. Warmed over 350 has prolly 50k miles on it now. Pic taken a year ago.
Tribute to Australian Touring Car raced by Norm Beechey.

Love the Smokey style engine build...his book is about the only one I've read since I left college in 1971.

Subscribed!

Perfect example of "pro-vintage". :thumbsup:

[Beechy]

So......five years later.....had the pics may as well post 'em....
Laguna Seca 2015

[Beechy]

Same evening.....after 5 p.m. loading to ship back to McGee Motorsports, Sears Point

[Beechy]

Sort-of related to this thread.....compare this stock front sheetmetal alignment (almost a straight line from base of A-pillar forward beyond the front wheel) to the Yunick car where the radiator support is dropped to the front subframe with no rubber donut mounts (dropping the fenders, grill and hood at the front) this creates a wedge at the top of the door gap requiring a cut-and-welded filler piece to correct it, and pulls the top of the fender away from the A-pillar by half inch which is harder to disguise so quite often left as-is.

All in the search for downforce.....and totally illegal. Mustangs were modified similar.
The Yunick car seems to have had even more radical surgery judging by the Speedhunters photos.

[Beechy]

Mike Eddy's fathers Falcon which is a real brass tag TransAm car.....Mike is/was Vic and Camie Edelbrock team mechanic and is full time employee....great guy. Mike was mentioned earlier in this thread.

[Beechy]

My daily driver....again....pic from random Stalkbook user!

[ScotI]

Since this got bumped.... What is the status on the build?? Always loved the updates & watched for them.

[Beechy]

.... now Gulf Oil ...
Also radiator is now under the trunk. 2 Davies Craig electric coolant pumps.
Side pipes.
LED taillamps in composite (fibreglass) housings.
Powdercoat silver bumpers.
Part-rewired using steering wheel push buttons (yellow in image) for turn sigs, horn and start.
383 stroker/rockcrusher going in soon.
Currently 350 T350.