'71 Nova. Project "Urban Legend"

[BBC71Nova]

It's embarrassing how long I've been a member here and other places and just now feel I can start a build thread :( but here goes... Oh, and I apologize in advance that it isn't a Camaro :rofl:...

I got this '71 at 15 and will have had it for 20 years this fall. Been through 2 build-ups prior to this but never really "finished" those. School, career, wife, housing, etc has always gotten in the way. Couple that with too much indecisiveness on my part, change in priorities and you get long, unfinished project car :rolleyes: .

A good friend of mine nicknamed the Nova project "Urban Legend" a few years back because "everybody has heard about it but few have seen it." Sad but true I guess. You have a car this long and every family get together, run in with old friends, etc it always comes up, "how's the Nova", "you still got that Chevy II", etc.

Unfortunately, as I approach the big 35, I began to realize life is short and those that are close to me won't be around forever. Many of those people lived through the era when all the cars we love now were rolling off the lines. They have countless stories and memories developed over the years of enjoying these great machines. I never get tired of hearing the stories. Sorta like the movie Dazed and Confused but real. I just want to get this thing together so when I get asked, "finish that Nova yet", I can say "dayum right I did. Let's go do some burnouts." I can only imagine the stories that's gonna conjure up :lol:. To me, that appreciation and enjoyment of the project by those individuals will mean as much as anything.

So here's the plan...

Exterior:
Mostly stock. Maintain the classic heritage of the car. Chrome bumpers, etc.
DSE mini tub
DSE subframe connectors
VWW V45 17" front 18" rear

Interior:
Factory replacement stuff
Maybe some basic Recaros that don't look too out of place
4 point rollbar w/removable harness bar
Decent sound system

Front Suspension:
Modifed OEM subframe
Speedtech UCA/LCA
QA1 D/A coilover conversion
Hollow swaybar
Basic Wilwood 4 piston setup (clear 15" wheels)

Rear Suspension:
G-link w/Fab9
-OR-
12 bolt, 3" drop leafs with Speedtech billet shackles

Drivetrain:
496 big block (resisting the LSx temptation...)
4l80e

[BBC71Nova]

Off to good start...

Last few months I've been tearing the car back down while I waited for my turn at the fab shop. After so much idle time over the years it really feels good to be giving the Nova some love again. I think I have enough of a plan together and have been saving long enough that I can make some good progress towards something I'll be happy with. I won't go so far as say "finish" cause well... we all know that never happens :D .

Thanks to Lateral-G I made the decision to go with Dan Holohan. He recently opened his own shop up in Mooresville, NC. His name is associated with some of the high profile projects out there like SickFish, BlowFish, Chicayne, etc. He also recently completed some work for Jay on his "wife's car (http://www.lateral-g.net/forums/showthread.php4?t=26164&highlight=wife%27s+car)" from here on the forum. My project won't be a challenge for him even with one hand tied behind his back and a blindfold on :lol: .

Yesterday was the day I'd been waiting for. I had to load up my heap and make the 8hr trek up to Mooresville. Note Friday afternoon rush hour in ATL must start at noon. Towing through ATL on Friday afternoon between 3-4 took years off my life I'm certain. Oh, and up I85 I saw this vehicle with "Bristal or bust" type stuff wrote on the rear glass. I couldn't help but laugh at the misspelling and wonder what that was doing for the stereotypes :rofl: .

Met up this morning with Dan. His shop is new, very clean and organized. And holy smokes does he have some cool equipment to make you giddy. That massive Dake bandsaw he has makes my import look like a jigsaw. I also think his call to Dake for a shop press went something like this, "Hello. Send me the biggest shop press on the planet. This square peg will fit the round hole. Thanks." We talked about all the projects in the shop and I drooled over the fab work. The Olds seemed thrilled to have some company in the shop that wasn't an F-body :cool: .

And then I left it like this. There's my junker. Guarding the door against the assault of more '69 Camaros... :woot:
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/dropoffMed.jpg

[andrew5]

yea!!! givin the nova's some love! looks real good!

[radrambler]

:cheers: WOW 20 years
Dan is an awesome choice and the nova will be something you can be proud of.
Most of us dream of having our cars reworked with that caliber of talent at the tig.
Keep us updated because im sure its gonna be a great journey to the end.

Tom

[coolwelder62]

John,Project is going to be amazing:thumbsup: .Since you live in Brimingham do you know Mark whitlock of Mark's Outdoor's.He's a great guy.Scott M.

[BBC71Nova]

John,Project is going to be amazing:thumbsup: .Since you live in Brimingham do you know Mark whitlock of Mark's Outdoor's.He's a great guy.Scott M.

I know of Mark Whitlock but don't really know him. Been in the store my fair share of times. I checked his car out at a local cruise-in back couple years. Looked really good. Talked to the builder for a bit to get the low down. IIRC it was built by the guys down at Performance Car Craft (http://performancecarcraft.com/).

[radrambler]

JOHN

Scott sold him this car
http://www.hubgarage.com/mygarage/vehicles/72175

Tom

[BBC71Nova]

Project is back from the blasters and the load of replacement sheetmetal has been ordered. Looks worse than I thought :faint: . I guess the first 20 years of the car's life must have been rough cause this sure didn't happen over the last 20 that it has spent in the garage :_paranoid .

Glad we had it stripped though. That's the only way to know what's hiding under all the ancient filler, kitty hair, riveted aluminum patches, etc.

I think the next pics I get from Dan should classify as "progress pics" :cheers:

John

What was the dash
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/stripDash2.jpg
Flintstone toeboard
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/stripToeBoard.jpg
Rear glass channel
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/stripRearGlassChannel.jpg
Patched tail panel
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/stripTailpanel.jpg

[radrambler]

Thats where ya start

Im sure Dan will make it a distant memory.
Im headed up to see Dan @ HHRS next week. Im excited to eyeball all the projects and fab. :woot:


Tom

[BBC71Nova]

Dan's been plugging away at my heap the last couple weeks. He is really an artist with metal. Now if I only had the "long bread" so I could just cut all his talent and creativity loose I can only imagine what he'd come up with... :wow:

He's made good progress on the firewall and repaired my Flintstone toe-board as you can see in the pics. I don't have the pics but the floorpans and trunkpan are also fitted. Can't wait to see the new sheetmetal going on. Bye bye rust :yes: On to the pics...

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/toeboardRepair.jpg
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/firewallSeamsBodyMounts.jpg
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/firewallProgress.jpg

[jschaecher]

Keep up the progress its good to see more Nova's on here! keep us updated

[Ron in SoCal]

Great update John. It's such a relief to get your car past the 'swiss cheese' phase. Keep posting pics...:)

[Jay Hilliard]

Hey John. Your Nova is in great hands with Dan. Its nice knowing you will get top notch work and not have to worry if this or that was fixed properly etc.

I just wish I had the $$ to let Dan's creativity loose!

Keep the pics coming.

Jay

[radrambler]

Hey John. Your Nova is in great hands with Dan. Its nice knowing you will get top notch work and not have to worry if this or that was fixed properly etc.

I just wish I had the $$ to let Dan's creativity loose!

Keep the pics coming.

Jay

AMEN...:hail: DANS CREATIVITY..

[BBC71Nova]

Dan's still plugging away at it. Here are a few recent updates. The quarter removal has started. The trunk pan has been fit and this pic also shows all the bracing that Dan did to ensure things don't move around.

It's gonna be a huge relief to have this part of the rebuild done and done right by a pro. I've learned a lot just talking to Dan and examining the pictures to see how he approached different things. Maybe in my next life I'll tackle more of this part myself :lol:

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/quarterRemoval.jpg

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/trunkPan.jpg

[Payton King]

Looks like it is heading back in the right direction. Best and worse thing you can ever do is blast a car. It never fails that they are never as good and soild as you would have hoped. Since this car is obviously a keeper, it is worth the time and expense to get that part right. You will never have to revist it again.

Look forward to seeing more progress!

[Jay Hilliard]

Best and worse thing you can ever do is blast a car. It never fails that they are never as good and soild as you would have hoped. Look forward to seeing more progress!

Amen to that brother! Ask me how I know. :willy:

Keep the pics coming.

[BBC71Nova]

Thanks guys! Exchanged some emails with Dan yesterday and he said the quarter fitment was looking pretty good. I was really concerned about having to go aftermarket with the quarters so that was welcomed news. Tweaking here and there he said. Almost like he's done this before :lol: . He said more pics coming end of the week so stay tuned.

[BBC71Nova]

As promised new pics were delivered :D . Quarter and tail panel fitment is progressing. Dan asked that I ship him the taillight assemblies since the 3 panels come together in the rear in a way that could impact taillight fit. While those were in route he went ahead and completed finish welding of floorpans, trunk pan, and started dash removal.

One thing Dan suggested that I thought was a good idea was to go ahead and apply the Lizard Skin Sound Control (http://www.lizardskin.com/pages/sound_control.php) product to the inside of the quarter panels. Not something you can easily do later ;). These are repop panels anyway so this extra mass should help (somewhat) make up for the thinner material used I think. I like the texture of it from what I can see. I'm going to rethink using it other places instead of the mat products I originally planned for.

Another thing I enjoy seeing is every area that is exposed by the R&R process gets cleaned up and coated with paint. They didn't e-coat back in the day so this takes care of the surface rust that developed over the years. One of those things I know I'd take the time to do if I were doing it and it is really nice seeing it done without having to ask for it explicitly.

Here's all you really care about :lateral:
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/innerQtr.jpg
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/innerQtrLizardSkin.jpg
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/quarterLizardSkin.jpg
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/rearSheetmetalFitup.jpg
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/trunkPanFinishWeld.jpg
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/firewallDone.jpg

[BBC71Nova]

Just when I come to terms with using the QA1 Pro-Coil conversion kit I have, Blake(killer69) just has to go and post this pic up of his recent conversion done using a traditional coilover and the Speedtech Chicane Kit (http://www.speedtechperformance.com/index.cfm?ptype=product&product_id=216&category_id=237&home_id=-1&mode=prod&prd216.htm). Exactly what I was considering just a few months ago. IMHO, for an OEM subframe this is the ticket.

http://i1235.photobucket.com/albums/ff425/killer72nova/DSC_1138.jpg

[BBC71Nova]

The driver's side door had some previous work which apparently included drilling holes to pull with. The decision was made to replace the skin. Given the prep and Lizard Skin application to all interior door surfaces I think it was the right decision. Now the passenger's side is jealous :rolleyes: . That door has been "worked" some but nothing too serious. So it doesn't really *need* a skin...

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/innerDoorPrep.jpg
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/innerDoorLizardSkin.jpg
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/doorSkinLizardSkin.jpg
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/doorSkinComplete.jpg

[LS1NOVA]

Nice metal work, wow.

[62ChevyII]

Applying Lizard Skin to the inner sheet metal panels and structure while they are exposed will go a long way toward sound control. A lot of those panels are the noise makers. That's thinking ahead. Looking good! Jim

[BBC71Nova]

Few more recent progress pics. The mini tubs are done except for the support braces, the dash replaced sans the speaker grate and the subframe connectors have been fitted.

The plan is likely changing some. The timeline I had in my head it growing by a lot :(. I'm also seriously considering going T-56 Magnum instead of the 4l80e. Just gotta keep fertilizing that money tree seedling and hope it will mature and produce :lol: .

John

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/passengerMiniTub.jpg

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/dashPanelInstalled-1.jpg

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/sfcFitment.jpg

[coolwelder62]

Awesome,Dan H. is the man.:thumbsup: :hail:

[Jay Hilliard]

Looks great John. Its a good feeling to know, work is being done correctly and you dont have to worry or stay on top of someone or a shop to get want you want completed in a reasonable time, etc.

Keep the pics coming.

[Payton King]

I saw it in person Wednesday. Looking good!

[waynieZ]

The work looks great. Thats a good idea putting the Lizard skin on the inside of the panels. I'd like to put it in my interior. You'll have a sweet ride when your done.

[BBC71Nova]

I saw it in person Wednesday. Looking good!

I'm jealous. HA! I was hoping to get up there soon myself. Not sure yet though.

[Ron in SoCal]

Looks great John. Its a good feeling to know, work is being done correctly and you dont have to worry or stay on top of someone or a shop to get want you want completed in a reasonable time, etc.



So true. Just wish I knew that first hand...:/

[BBC71Nova]

Just a quick update. More to come later. Starting to look like a car again :D

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/gettingCloser.jpg

[NovaBlue71]

Car is looking great!Without a doubt your in great heads with Dan doing the fab work, Dan is one talented fab. guy. :thumbsup: Joe

[tones2SS]

Looking really good John. Great update.
Keep us posted.

[Jay Hilliard]

Looks great John!

[BBC71Nova]

Time for a little update. Few weeks back a lot of the big stuff wrapped up. Then we had to wait on hood so some odd-n-end stuff was wrapped up. I needed the break for budget reasons anyway so it's been good.

Dan did a great job on the DSE subframe connectors. I asked that they be installed so that the front sub bolts to the connectors so I can remove as necessary. He took that and ran with it. He ended up boring holes through the tube and installed threaded bungs that go all the way through. Then there are 4 bolts on use on each connector. He then added some metal to closeout the sub extensions and blend the transition so it looks nice. Makes the rest of that OEM sub look bad :o.

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/DSCN2517.jpg
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/DSCN2603.jpg
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/DSCN2595.jpg
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/DSCN2595.jpg

[johnny68]

hey john im going to be doing my dse sub frame connectors this week and like the idea i have a ?? did they cut off the floor over th torque box like on a camaro or did they just weld to the floor as is ( im talking about the most farthest rear part of the connector) looking great
john

[BBC71Nova]

Once the new AMD front fenders arrived they were fit up and gaps checked. The passenger's side which still has OEM door skin but new fender(AMD) and quarter, looked pretty good. The drivers side which has new fender(AMD), door skin and quarter looked really bad with gaps you could drive a truck through :eek:. Dan worked his magic and the driver's side now looks really good. Below are some before and after pics.

Before:
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/driverQtrGapBefore.jpg
After:
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/driverQtrGapAfter.jpg
Before:
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/driverFenderGapBefore.jpg
After:
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/driverFenderGapAfter.jpg

[BBC71Nova]

Here is a teaser of the AMD aluminum cowl hood just sitting in there with no hinges, bumpers, etc. And finally a couple outside shots of the current state of everything.

Up next will be the decklid gaps, T56 tunnel mods and DSE clutch master bracket for the manual conversion :unibrow:

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/hoodProfile.jpg
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/tailPanel.jpg
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/driverSide.jpg

[BBC71Nova]

hey john im going to be doing my dse sub frame connectors this week and like the idea i have a ?? did they cut off the floor over th torque box like on a camaro or did they just weld to the floor as is ( im talking about the most farthest rear part of the connector) looking great
john

Wished I could tell you for sure. As of right now I've only seen what I get via pictures. I wouldn't hesitate to give DSE a call as I'm sure they'd be more than helpful with any question you might have. Or heck, just give Dan a call and ask him. Contact info available at Holohan's Hot Rods (http://holohanshotrods.com).

Here is the only pic I have showing the rear and this was just during mockup prior to final welding.

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/rearSFC.jpg

[coolwelder62]

Man,will somebody tell that man he can fabricate.:thumbsup: AWESOME

[waynieZ]

Thats a nice setup on the front of the subframe connector. It has a fine detail look to it.

[Payton King]

Have not been there in a bit. Looks like it is coming along

[Jay Hilliard]

Man,will somebody tell that man he can fabricate.:thumbsup: AWESOME

I have several times :yes: . And on top of it, he is a good guy who does what he says he will do. How rare is that now adays?

Scott, You do a good job fabricating also buddy. :thumbsup:

John, car is looking great. Those gaps are NICE!

[tones2SS]

Great updates and great work on the body!:thumbsup:

[syborg tt]

Great updates

I've had the luxury of seeing Dan't work first hand while he was at Troys. I was alway's amazed. A car that no one every see's is the Toyota - it looked like a factory concept.

Your car couldn't be in better hands. Dan is a stand up guy and his work speaks for itself.

[BBC71Nova]

Not much of an update but it's something :). I went up Friday to check on the car and take some parts up. Last few weeks I've been trying to get some parts ordered and delivered before we can move forward much more. The "list" is shrinking. Excited to see the light at the end of the tunnel for this stage of the build.

The car looks fantastic. Dan and Dan^2(new help :)) are doing a great job. It's been moved to what I like to call the Nova wing of Holohan's Hot Rod Shop :rofl: . He's in the process of expanding and all that is in this wing is my car and a pretty solid '65 Chevy II that I'm sure has one of you guy's name all over it. Just give Dan a call hehe.

I'm so glad I opted to go this far with the sheetmetal to make it a solid foundation to build on. It put a hit in the build budget but every time I read threads about someone buying a car that "looks solid" just to later find out it was hacked up gives me confirmation that this was the right move. I also know there's no way in heck I'd have ever got it looking this clean with my limited patience and welding skill.

For this update there is a shot of the rear seat divider patches that were fab'd to fill in by the new tubs. Shots of the hood now setup with hinges and latch installed. I was sweating the hood since I haven't read much about the aluminum one being used but it turned out real nice and is plenty solid. Glad I went that route. Decklid has been installed and the gaps look really good even with all new rear sheetmetal. Should only require a little work to be better than OEM like the others will be.

I couldn't resist a pic of the 325/50 MT stuffed up in those fat new tubs :eek:. I had those for the street/strip build plan but they are too bad azz to not keep around. Gonna get them squared up and take measurements for the new housing.

Oh, and the last picture is of my newest arrival I got to help unload while I was there :D.

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/backWall.jpg
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/frontHood.jpg
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/sideHoodOpen.jpg
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/T56Magnum.jpg

[waynieZ]

The car looks great, and that last picture is pure sweetness!

[Jay Hilliard]

John,

I got to see the car Sat. Its looking great. Gaps are very nice!

[BBC71Nova]

Been a while since I've had any updates but progress has resumed at Holohan's Hot Rods...

Kudos to Marcus at SC&C (www.scandc.com/) who helped me a ton with suspension decisions. Very knowledgeable on this topic. Very much worth the call if you want to understand the pros/cons of the various offerings. The G-link and Fab-9 have been delivered. Matter of fact the G-link shipped immediately. The Fab-9 was custom so C/A had to fab it up so that took couple/three weeks as was explained to me at time of order. No pics of install yet but maybe soon.

The T56 Magnum has been installed to begin the tunnel work. Well... there used to be a tunnel there :D
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/openTunnel.jpg

I'm glad I sprung for the nicer Speedtech crossmember. A really nice piece and fits nicely.
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/t56Crossmember.jpg

[Jay Hilliard]

looking good John! What are your engine specs?

[coolwelder62]

Very Cool.:thumbsup:

[BBC71Nova]

looking good John! What are your engine specs?

Not completely sure. I've got the motor that was built prior to changing directions. Forged, full roller, 13.75:1 comp, .030 454, Dart 320, etc. That isn't really street friendly though. I've considered using e85 which would mean for the most part I could run it like it sits. Not convinced yet on e85 though. I just know that at the moment that the most budget friendly way to go.

Otherwise it will be new pistons, cam and the 4.25" crank to make it a 489.

You guys have been a bad influence :yes: . The projects are just too nice and set the bar too high to chase. I keep changing things which destroyed the budget I had meaning this is gonna take forever. Part of it I guess...

[radrambler]

:thumbsup:
Nice thing is your metal fab is in the hands of
:hail: DAN HOLOHAN.
This car will be very nice and fab work worth every penny you spend at HHRS

Tom

[rchaskin]

I saw this car in person today!!

Super nice build!!

Holohan is a super nice guy!!

He has a shop full of cool builds.

Randy

[BBC71Nova]

I'm jealous. Due time, due time :unibrow: Maybe I'll get some updated pics from Dan "da fab man" this weekend if he made any more progress.

We need to get some build pics up of that '56 Olds he is working on. That is gonna be really nice. Love those Schott wheels. Maybe I'll grab some pics when I go back up.

[BBC71Nova]

Got a few update pics to share. Gaps are all complete now and looking good. DSE hydraulic clutch bracket installed. G-link bracketry has all been welded in.

I believe the quarter/sail seams are getting leaded soon and the tunnel fab completed and then she's coming home to 'Bama :yes: . Then me and the D/A are going to get used to each other for a bit so I can get some primer on it HA!

BTW, those trunk and floor pan welds aren't ground because I specifically asked Dan to not worry about wasting time grinding those pan welds. I can do that and save some money. Didn't want you guys to think that was normal Holohan work. I'm guessing that's obvious though from the other pics :cool:

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/clutchBracket.jpg
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/passDoorGap.jpg
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/gLink.jpg
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/gLink2.jpg

[Ron in SoCal]

Looks fantastic John. Clean fab work is a beautiful thing..:thumbsup:

[Payton King]

Are you picking the car up this weekend?

[BBC71Nova]

Payton, that's the current plan. Hoping the weather holds out...

[Payton King]

We will be at the show Friday and head to Dan's in the afternoon. Then on to DSE around 5:00. Hunt me down or I will find you.

[Jay Hilliard]

Hey John,

It was good to meet you and your wife at Dans open house. The car looks awesome. The trans tunnel turned out very nice!

Keep us posted with updates. Hope you have an uneventful and safe trip back to AL.

[OVRKILL]

Man the fab skills around here are insane :hail:

[BBC71Nova]

Hey John,

It was good to meet you and your wife at Dans open house. The car looks awesome. The trans tunnel turned out very nice!

Keep us posted with updates. Hope you have an uneventful and safe trip back to AL.

Ditto Jay. We made it back yesterday afternoon safe and sound. Weather was great. Dan wiped down the bare metal with the Gibbs product he sells before we left so there wasn't any surface rust to speak of after the trip. That's what I was worried about.

Now I gotta figure out how to attack this thing next...

[BBC71Nova]

Time flies when you're having fun... Now if I could only slow it down so I could get some work done on the Nova :D .

Not much to report really. Picked up some parts I needed to get it mocked up to roller stage.

Got the new AMD HD cooling radiator support and inner fenders. Been so long since I had inner fenders I couldn't remember the fitment of all the overlapping pieces. I ordered up an assembly manual :rolleyes: .

Spec'd out and ordered up a set of Strange 35 spline axles with the Timken Set20 tapered bearings. Got the seals and bearings pressed on no problem. The wedding rings... no dice with my "little" 20 ton H-frame press. Just doesn't have the nuts I guess. I'll find a shop to do it. In hindsight I should've just ordered up the axles with the housing and been done with it. I just wasn't sure then on which diff I was running.

Went with the small 11" 4 piston Wilwood rear brake kit with the integral parking brake. Matches the fronts I had but nothing "pro-touring" cool with just plain rotors. I'm running manual brakes so I went with their aluminum master cylinder with 7/8" bore. Picked this stuff up from Justin@Scott's Hot Rods who was great. Stuff shipped right out.

I got a few hours over the holidays to unbox all the G-link parts and get it mocked up. It went pretty smooth and easy since the bracketry was already installed. The kit ships with 12" 200lb springs which I don't think are gonna work. They would require 2-3" of preload and even then I'm afraid it will ride too high. I'm gonna go with a 10" Hyperco I think. It looks like with the shocks within the manufacturer stated 13-14" minimum length at ride height and utilizing all the G-Link adjustments to lower the car, a 15" wheel lip is even with the fender lip. That's a pretty good height I think. When I get the 18" wheels they'll tuck some and that's what I'm after.

So the bad news... I was hoping to defer the cost of the center section for a while for cost reasons. Well after getting the rear mocked up I'm a little afraid the center might come too close to the rear tunnel. I'd rather know this now than later so I guess that'll be my next purchase. When that happened I stopped on the rear mockup since I'll just have to take it all back apart once the center arrives.

The other maybe bad news... exhaust clearance. I've always wanted 3" out the back. Thinking that just ain't gonna happen with the G-Link crossmember without going up and over requiring trunk pan mods. We'll see.

In the meantime I've moved on to the front suspension mockup.

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/GLink_Mockup.jpg

[coolwelder62]

Well this build is coming along outstanding.Dan H.can really make the sheet metal do what he want's it's too.:thumbsup: :thumbsup:

[syborg tt]

The other maybe bad news... exhaust clearance. I've always wanted 3" out the back. Thinking that just ain't gonna happen with the G-Link crossmember without going up and over requiring trunk pan mods. We'll see.

Sounds like "Up and Over it is" Funny thing I was worried about the same thing. Then I realized it's just metal and do and get it over with and I will be some much Happier.

So have the Metal Master cut the floor and trim the tank and you will be super happy. Plus when your at a car show people are going to look in your trunk and see a cool funky floor and ask you is that stock and you can reply, "Is Now"

ps - the rear set up looks awesome.

[Ketzer]

If you always wanted 3" out the back then stay the course! A heck of a build not to have every detail as you've dreamed it.

Jeff-

[syborg tt]

If you always wanted 3" out the back then stay the course! A heck of a build not to have every detail as you've dreamed it.

Jeff-

I couldn't agree more. I am been struggling with 295's vs 335's and it's killing me. Don't skimp now as you will regret it in the end.

ps I am also struggling with the exhaust on my project. I love the looks of the Anvil Mustangs exhaust exiting in front of the rear tire. Since I am building a vintage TA Camaro it would make sense but I also don't want to be annoyed by the exhaust note.

so my Advise is to "Stay the Course"

[GoolsbyCustoms]

You could always go 3" all the way back then go oval over the rear end then out to tips/etc.

Btw looks killer so far

[brownz]

[QUOTE=syborg tt;388678]I couldn't agree more. I am been struggling with 295's vs 335's and it's killing me. Don't skimp now as you will regret it in the end.

Marty well said, I skimped and it cost me double once I decided to go woth the 335 tire :mad:

[BBC71Nova]

Got some time Sunday to plug away a little more at it. Managed to get the Speedtech arms, Qa1 coilover conversion and Wilwood brakes mocked up. Went fairly smooth as you'd expect.

Really impressed with the quality of the Speedtech arms and specifically the powder coat. Very nice pieces. Embarrassed to say how long I've had those without taking them out of the packaging :rolleyes:. I apologize that you can't appreciate the coating due to the masking job I put on them to protect them during this phase :). I've been known to drop things here and there.

I'm not thrilled with the brakes but I've had these on the shelf so they'll have to do for a while. These are probably border line for any serious street duty.

The lower arms were a little bit of a challenge to get worked into place. I was prepared with the 1/2" X 4.5" all-thread and a couple nuts and washers though from having seen that mentioned on the forum. Works like a champ to spread the mounting locations on the subframe enough to work the arms in.

I've got a set of 10" Ridetech springs on order for the rear along with what I hope to be the correct Energy Suspension motor mounts. I'm thinking by early February I might have it sitting on wheels and tires :faint: . That's been a few years in the making. Then shortly after than I think the engine and trans will be back in place so I can get stuff setup under the hood.

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/fromSuspensionMockup.jpg

Had these on the shelf too from previous build plan. Awesome wheels for the strip and don't weigh anything. Couldn't help but throw them on for a pic :).
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/alumaStarWheel.jpg

[darren@ridetech]

BBC71Nova, Tried to pm you but your inbox is full. Shoot me an email when you get a chance. [email protected]

[96z28ss]

i wouldn't leave that tape on there for too long. That tape makes a mess if left on there too long or if moisture gets on it.

[syborg tt]

i wouldn't leave that tape on there for too long. That tape makes a mess if left on there too long or if moisture gets on it.

Espeically the white stuff - I've been there it's blue or gree for me

[BBC71Nova]

i wouldn't leave that tape on there for too long. That tape makes a mess if left on there too long or if moisture gets on it.
Ummm. Yeah it makes a huge mess. Don't ask how I know this :rolleyes: . I don't intend on this staying on too long.

[BBC71Nova]

Been a while since I had any updates. Mostly been taking my time and trying to save up some money for parts :).

So here's the run down on what's been happening.

-Changed my mind on the WaveTrac and went with the new Strange 35 spline S-Trac and their new aluminum thru-bolted Pro-HD gear case instead. Nice piece and worth the backorder delays. Chose the 3.89 gear set. Due to the difference in spline engagement depth in the diff I did have to swap one of my axles for a different length. Something to keep in mind. Lesson learned: just save yourself some headache and order a complete rear all at once. I ordered everything separately at different times and it was a little stressful with all the measuring, etc but it turned out good.

-Mounted up the 325/50-15 MT Drag Radials on 15"X10" wheels and they fit good. Tight fit but for occasional drag strip outing they'll be fine. No rubbing except the passenger's side very lightly rubs against the outer wheelhouse at full compression. Rear could stand to be 1/8" narrower each side but overall it's about as good as I could hope for.

-I'm still happy with the decision to go with the G-Link setup. Admittedly I was having second thoughts after reading some other threads. I think you have to be honest with what your plans are for the car. My car won't be super low but it will be as low as it could be without committing to replacing the entire transmission tunnel. The only issue I've had thus far is the fill tube for the Fab 9 hits the shock crossmember at full compression. I doubt this would be an issue with a 12 bolt.

-I've now got the trans and a mockup block installed. I need to modify the frame mount on the passengers side so the bolt will go through. This has been a huge pita. Should take just a few minutes to drop the engine in but not my luck. I'm in it for a few hours already. I guess all the repop/aftermarket mounts are to blame. I also had to open up the shifter opening from where the tunnel was replaced at the fab shop. The shifters are tilted to the driver a little but the hole that was fab'ed in was centered.

-I pulled measurements today so I can send my driveshaft off to Denny's Driveshaft to be shortened. It's gonna be real close to hitting the tunnel I'm afraid. I'm really hoping to not have to replace the remainder of the OE tunnel.

-Next up will be taking measurements for a radiator. I'm hoping to pick one up from C&R but if not maybe Ron Davis. I've seen a couple C&R setups and they are really nice.

[BBC71Nova]

These wheels I had are only 15". This is at ride height with the shocks at the minimum acceptable ride height of 13.5" eye to eye. This is using all adjust-ability available in the G-link setup. That is, tilted all the way in on the shock crossmember and the lower mounts in the lowest holes. This is a little lower than some I've seen so I assume it is due to the Fab-9 shock mounts having holes lower maybe.

I'm planning to run 18" wheels in the back so I should get a little tuck at ride height I think.


At ride height. Roughly 1" from rim lip to wheel lip.
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/rideHeight.jpg

This is at full compression. Well, about .25" short of full since the fill tube is currently hitting :).
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/fullCompression.jpg

[BBC71Nova]

Sorry for the crappy pictures. I need another lens. Little tough under the car, on my back, with limited light and a 28-135mm lens :rolleyes: . I need one of those fancy lifts :).

Here is a shot of the fill tube on the Fab-9 hitting the crossmember. It is just hitting at full compression but enough that it must be addressed. Probably end up bending another crossmember that goes up a little closer to the floor or change the route it takes. I spoke to Chassisworks about it and they are aware of it but it seems to only be an issue with Fab-9 setups.

Notice the non-existent exhaust clearance. Might have to talk to the guys down the street at Goolsby Customs about raising the trunk floor or something :unibrow: .

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/fillerClearanceCompression.jpg

[BBC71Nova]

Here are some pics showing clearance in some other areas at full compression.

There is over 1" of clearance at the frame rail.
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/frameClearance.jpg

This picture is a little misleading but there is a little less than 1" of clearance at the tunnel where the pinion is. The G-Link is basically allowing as much of a drop as possible really unless you want to mod the tunnel.
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/tunnelClearance.jpg

Here is a shot showing the clearance between the gear case and the body/floor structure above it. When I put in a little pinion angle and I remove the old pinion snubber mount there'll be enough clearance. However, again, IMHO this is as low as you could go without committing to modifying more sheetmetal for clearance. At least with a 9" setup like this. I suppose this case is a little beefier so maybe that is taking up a lot of the space.
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/gearCaseClearance.jpg

[BBC71Nova]

Here are a couple pics of the center section. Car part pron :)

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/gearCase3.jpg

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/gearCase2.jpg

[coolwelder62]

:thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: Coming along nice.

[Jay Hilliard]

Very nice John. Keep us updated.

[GoolsbyCustoms]

Sorry for the crappy pictures. I need another lens. Little tough under the car, on my back, with limited light and a 28-135mm lens :rolleyes: . I need one of those fancy lifts :).

Here is a shot of the fill tube on the Fab-9 hitting the crossmember. It is just hitting at full compression but enough that it must be addressed. Probably end up bending another crossmember that goes up a little closer to the floor or change the route it takes. I spoke to Chassisworks about it and they are aware of it but it seems to only be an issue with Fab-9 setups.

Notice the non-existent exhaust clearance. Might have to talk to the guys down the street at Goolsby Customs about raising the trunk floor or something :unibrow: .

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/fillerClearanceCompression.jpg

Im sure we could read a couple "How to"s and figure it out :yes:

[Moabdude]

Any updates?
Nice looking Nova.
I will have a Nova soon so I'm subscribed!

[wv nova]

looks like a real good build , good job.

[BBC71Nova]

Thanks guys. Not much notable progress lately. Combination of lack of both time and money :).

Got some vacation time coming up soon so hopefully I can make headway then. Right now I'm just trying to get parts lined up for that time.

I'm contemplating selling off my BBC stuff and going with an L92. Probably be more enjoyable and less expensive in the long run. Also would take care of my current pain point which is fitment of a radiator/shroud combo with a serpentine accessory drive. I've spent more than a few hours measuring, building templates, talking to different radiator shops, etc.

I'm also starting the process of lining up a paint/body shop. Boy oh boy is that fun and heartbreaking :faint:

[Payton King]

Just don't paint it, hit it with some primer and off you go. Get it up and driving first as it always seems there will be something you need to change or a few problems to chase down. Once it is sorted, then you can paint it.

Same goes for the interior.

Have fun, looking forward for it being complete.

[frojoe]

Updates, dammit!

[BBC71Nova]

Ha! Wished I could say I'm having to keep the updates under wraps before the big unveil to preserve the marketing value. But... uhm, yeah, no...

Been a fairly slow summer for the car project. Have a newborn around the house now too :wow: .

Most of the last few months has been the typical 2hr task turns into 10 due to fitment issues here and there. Then 2 months wait on a steering box, indecisiveness on my part, etc. Why these things are labors of love I guess. That or we all just have a high tolerance for pain :) .

I bet I have 10hrs in getting the trans, block, headers and steering box all mocked up. It's all in there now though and appears to fit nice. Few hours in I finally decide to try another set of repop big block frame mounts. That made all the difference. Can't say enough good things about the Lemons headers. It's tight just because those real engines take up a lot of room :rofl:. Per their instruction I had to trim the back of the driver's side engine frame mount but otherwise they fit awesome. They are hand's down the nicest headers I've ever dealt with.

I also spent some time on the driveline angles. In order to set it up without such a severe "working angle" I shimmed the back of the trans up about 3/4". Coupled with the low rear ride height I'm fairly certain this will put the driveshaft into the tunnel up near the trans tailshaft. That'll have to be dealt with.

I never did come up with a solution for an accessory drive and radiator combo to work with the factory style radiator support. The AutoRad setup has been on order now for a few weeks. I expect it shortly. Not an expense I had planned on that's for sure. It *should* yield the clearance I need though. If not, I'm gonna cry :( .

I've had the front suspension on and off a few times. Ended up going with the Ridetech tall drop spindles. I'm still working through some issues with steering linkage and front fender to tire clearance up front.

Lastly, I have wheels and tires now. I went with 17"X8" and 18"X11" VWW V40 wheels. Exactly the look I was after. Oh, I also did some horse trading (screwed on another forum in the process) and moved up to the 12.2" rotor size up front from the 10.8" size I did have.

Unfortunately I don't have pics right now. Soon I hope to roll it outside where I can get some good side shots. I'm pretty stoked about the look. After a few years it is FINALLY SITTING ON 4 TIRES greater than 7" in diameter. When i was taking it off the stands in the rear and lowering the jack I started wondering if it was gonna stop. I love the look.

[70Nova]

Congratulations on the newborn.

Inquiring minds want to know...........seeing that "real engine":D

[BBC71Nova]

I'm not sure what the final outcome of this will be but I needed to get some tie-rods on the car. I ordered up some "high strength, extra thick washers" from McMaster-Carr along with some .5" longer hex flat head bolts for the steering arms. The washers measure about .2" each so I went with a stack of 2. The front bolt is the one that came with the Ridetech spindles. It just barely gets into the nylon "lock" after installing the spacers so I'll probably go ahead and replace those with the longer bolts as well. The rear bolts are the new longer ones I ordered.

The above combination achieves much needed clearance between the steering arm and the rim lip. The tie-rod itself is still only 5/16" or so from the tire. Under side loads I could see this rubbing. Adding the spacers also put the limit stops closer to the stops on the control arms thus limiting steering. Not a huge concern of mine at the moment given the tires almost get into the fender lips anyway. I need to install the swaybar to make sure nothing gets into the end-links.

Here are some before and after pics.
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/steeringArmClearance.jpg
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/steeringArmSpacers.jpg
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/tieRodClearanceAfter.jpg

[BBC71Nova]

Here are some pictures of the engine mocked up. These are Lemon's headers with 2 1/8" primaries. There clear everything fine but it is tight. The steering box and header basically have to go in at the same time. That was a trick ;) .

The headers are nice and tight with great ground clearance. The 3 bolt flanges are about 1/4" or so from the floorpan. I have raised the tailshaft of my trans about 3/4" for driveline angle reasons. That helps get the headers up nice and tight as well.

I have also confirmed they will not clear the TruTurn though without a tube being moved. At least not using a traditional tie-rod on the inside. I'm undecided on this header mod at the moment. If I do this I'm gonna go ahead and switch them to v-band clamps too.

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/engineMockup.jpg
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/engineDrivers.jpg
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/enginePass.jpg
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/headerGroundClearance.jpg

[BBC71Nova]

So one of my bigger concerns now is ensuring I have adequate fender/inner to tire clearance. Everything clears at ride height. At half way to full-bump the tire starts to get into the fender when turned to the stops.

Visually it looked like I had positive or neutral camber. I've been told I need -1 degree at ride height. I only previously had ~1/4" of shims in place. Today I threw in some additional washers to get ~1/2" total of shims. This visually - I don't have a gauge - seemed to put a little negative camber in at ride height. The additional camber gain helped with the tire to fender clearance issue some to.

I'm still thinking I may get someone to do some sheetmetal work on those fender lips and inner fenders. With that I think I'll be ok.

I'm not thrilled about that huge stack of alignment shims. I *may* move the control arm tower over some if I go ahead and install the Chicane brackets after I tear it back apart for paint.

[BBC71Nova]

And finally here are pics of the stance. The front is actually slightly lower than this when level. The driveway slope threw it off some.

This is mocked up with the front crossmember 5" off the ground. Down at 4.5" looks much better but the oil pan would be awfully close since it will hang below the crossmember some.

The front fender lip is 24". The rear is 22".

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/stance1.jpg
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/stance2.jpg

[WSSix]

Looks great! Good luck sorting out the wheel and steering issues. At least you found it early like this.

[turnhard]

You can clamp the steering arm down heat it up and bend it in the half inch you need it to clear. That would be better than a stack of washers

[syborg tt]

I'm not sure what the final outcome of this will be but I needed to get some tie-rods on the car. I ordered up some "high strength, extra thick washers" from McMaster-Carr along with some .5" longer hex flat head bolts for the steering arms. The washers measure about .2" each so I went with a stack of 2. The front bolt is the one that came with the Ridetech spindles. It just barely gets into the nylon "lock" after installing the spacers so I'll probably go ahead and replace those with the longer bolts as well. The rear bolts are the new longer ones I ordered.

The above combination achieves much needed clearance between the steering arm and the rim lip. The tie-rod itself is still only 5/16" or so from the tire. Under side loads I could see this rubbing. Adding the spacers also put the limit stops closer to the stops on the control arms thus limiting steering. Not a huge concern of mine at the moment given the tires almost get into the fender lips anyway. I need to install the swaybar to make sure nothing gets into the end-links.

Here are some before and after pics.

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/tieRodClearanceAfter.jpg


The other option would be to order a set of Baer Trackers

http://baer.com/products?page=shop.browse&category_id=15956

I had a similar problem with my front wheel ( wrong back space with drop spindles )

[youthpastor]

Just don't paint it, hit it with some primer and off you go. Get it up and driving first as it always seems there will be something you need to change or a few problems to chase down. Once it is sorted, then you can paint it.

Same goes for the interior.

Have fun, looking forward for it being complete.

yep...put it together and enjoy, then worry about the paint later. Love the stance. Hang in there. Life has a way of getting in the way of our hobbies. It is a really cool car- oh and congrats! :thumbsup:

[BBC71Nova]

The other option would be to order a set of Baer Trackers

http://baer.com/products?page=shop.browse&category_id=15956

I had a similar problem with my front wheel ( wrong back space with drop spindles )

Marty, do you have any spacers between the steering arm and rod end in that photo? I had been looking at Baer Tracker and other bumpsteer type kits as an alternative. I think the rod end is a little smaller than a tie-rod and that alone will help the clearance issue. I'm gonna try and crudely check bumpsteer today or tomorrow and see where it is.

Thanks

[syborg tt]

Marty, do you have any spacers between the steering arm and rod end in that photo? I had been looking at Baer Tracker and other bumpsteer type kits as an alternative. I think the rod end is a little smaller than a tie-rod and that alone will help the clearance issue. I'm gonna try and crudely check bumpsteer today or tomorrow and see where it is.

Thanks

John shoot me an e-mail and I will send you and extra set that I have on my shelf. Test it out and see if it works and then order yourself a set.

The one I have is for an s10 but you will be able to see if it helps your clearance issue

mr2879sy @ aol.com

[bighead]

Can anyone tell me what Dan charges an hour for his beautiful work?

[makoshark]

I must admit, I have been a Camaro bigot for some time and have overlooked many of the great builds on here. This is a great build and am loving the direction you are going with this car. You have a very similar build to my Camaro. I look forward to seeing more progress!

Are you going to utilize the Truturn and the Chicane brackets? I vote you do:thumbsup:

[BBC71Nova]

Big head, just give Dan a call and talk to him. He'll want to have an idea about the project anyway. With that he can provide some type of ballpark estimate. BTW, Dan's paint booth was just installed last month so Holohans can do it all in house now.

Thanks for bouncing this to the top. Subtle reminder for me to get off the iPad, away from football on the tube and out to the garage to fit up the Autorad...

[BBC71Nova]

Here we are on 1.1.2013 for the year's first installment of Expensive Mistakes and How not to Build a Car :willy: .

So back in early December my Autorad showed up. I must say they are very nice pieces and well worth the wait for a quality fabricated component. Around the same time my V/A Frontrunner came in that I picked up from Matts during the Black Friday sale. Anyway, now that the holidays are over I made some time to try and fit it up. Radiator/fan and accessory drive fit is something I've been worrying about since summer. There just isn't much clearance on the Novas between the big block and core support. I needed all the space I could get for this setup and hoped that the Autorad would yield what I needed. This was basically my only bolt-on type option available.

Long story short, it isn't going to work. I have 6.5" from block face to the back of the fan motors and I need closer to 7" for the Frontrunner. As luck would have it the passenger's side fan motor is basically right in line with where the A/C compressor is positioned. That also happens to be the longest dimension with the Frontrunner. It looks like I only netted about .5" extra clearance with the Autorad setup.

I guess now I have to think this over and decide where to go from here. I think I have basically 2 options. Well 3 if you count pushing the whole project off in the river :wow: .

-Option 1 is to scrap the big block plan and go LSx. I'd have to sell off some parts and likely take a bath on those. I haven't opened the Frontrunner so maybe I could exchange it. This radiator is single pass which also presents a little problem for the LSx option.

-Option 2 is to build custom frame stands that move the engine back .5". There is plenty of header and firewall clearance to do that. It actually would help gain clearance for the headers around the steering box. This would require not only custom frame stands but also a custom trans crossmember. Another potential benefit with this is it just might get the header tube far back enough to also clear a Ridetech Tru-turn setup.

This big block is fighting me all the way it seems...

Here is a shot showing how much an Autorad gains you in radiator surface area. HUGE difference in opening size versus the OE style "heavy duty" core support.
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/OE_Autorad_Overlay_zps77a364bb.jpg

Here it is with the radiator installed. The condenser mounts directly to the radiator.
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/Autorad_zpsafc61fe2.jpg

Here you can see better what I mentioned earlier in the thread about the Autorad radiator mounting surface not being so far back. The tape line is pulled between the center line of the rear most fender mounting locations on both the OE and Autorad support. You can see the Autorad radiator mounts .5" forward of the OE setup.
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/Autorad_face_zps6b27bc45-1.jpg
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/oe_face_zps8d906906-1-1.jpg

[WSSix]

Move the engine back. Or would it be possible to move the radiator forward and possibly down so it goes under the top frame work on the core support?

Another possibility, did GM make a serpentine system that would fit your BB and fit the subframe? If so, you could detail it like Nathan did with his LS3. I thought he did a fantastic job making factory brackets look great. That may not extend out as much as the front runner system

If you say screw it and go LSx, you don't need anything more than a single pass radiator. I'd stay with the BB though just because you already have it and they are cool to look at when you open the hood :yes:

[makoshark]

By moving the engine back, would that introduce transmission interference to the tunnel?

[BBC71Nova]

My trans tunnel has been replaced so that will mostly clear. Probably have to move the shifter hole back but that's about it for tunnel mods related to this.

I'm thinking now about trying the small block frame mounts. It seems they'll move the engine back by 1/2" or so. Lots of conflicting info online about that. I have some mounts I can try though. Guess I'll tack on a few more hours working on engine/trans positioning this weekend. Just glad I'm doing this now with everything not painted.

[makoshark]

Will the SBC mounts not cause interference with the steering box due to the extra width of the BB?

[Vince@Meanstreets]

Have him make a custom set of frame stands and move that bad boy back. Very easy if you are only going back .5". SBC stands will make it sit too high.

I'd modify the firewall to go back farther.
Don't give up on tha BBC.

[Ron in SoCal]

What fan set up did Autorad ship to you? See if there's maybe a more narrow fan set up available. I remember someone here had that issue w a BB (Ron Davis) and that was his solution.

[Jay Hilliard]

What fan set up did Autorad ship to you? See if there's maybe a more narrow fan set up available. I remember someone here had that issue w a BB (Ron Davis) and that was his solution.

Ron, that was me. The standard Spal fans sent with the Ron Davis rad were to thick.

John, I can send you the Spal model number if you want.

[BBC71Nova]

Will the SBC mounts not cause interference with the steering box due to the extra width of the BB?

Good point. The headers are *supposed* to work with either. However, I did have much better fitment luck with the current frame stands than those I tried prior.

Have him make a custom set of frame stands and move that bad boy back. Very easy if you are only going back .5". SBC stands will make it sit too high.

I'd modify the firewall to go back farther.
Don't give up on tha BBC.

Yeah making custom frame stands is probably the answer. I'll have to think about how to approach it design wise but shouldn't be too bad. I want to go ahead and mount an intake and distributor since that will likely be first place to touch the firewall.

What fan set up did Autorad ship to you? See if there's maybe a more narrow fan set up available. I remember someone here had that issue w a BB (Ron Davis) and that was his solution.

Ron, that was me. The standard Spal fans sent with the Ron Davis rad were to thick.

John, I can send you the Spal model number if you want.

The Autorad setup uses Maradyne fans. I looked last night for thinner fans but didn't see any that weren't different in other dimensions as well. I know when I was dealing with Ron Davis they did say they had thinner fans available. This Autorad radiator/shroud assembly is narrower than the Ron Davis even with the thinner fans. That was one of the reasons for going this route. At least that's what I convinced myself :).

[Vince@Meanstreets]

Good point. The headers are *supposed* to work with either. However, I did have much better fitment luck with the current frame stands than those I tried prior.



Yeah making custom frame stands is probably the answer. I'll have to think about how to approach it design wise but shouldn't be too bad. I want to go ahead and mount an intake and distributor since that will likely be first place to touch the firewall.



MSD distributor and mini cap does fit much better.

I have a few pictures on my face book page of the frame perches I made for a project. They are in the shop projects page.

[BBC71Nova]

A little update. After having moved the engine back 3/4" I mocked up the Frontrunner setup today to check clearances. At first I was mega PO'd and couldn't figure out what had happened. The A/C compressor still hit the radiator fan motors even though previous measurements indicated it *should* fit. Anyway, I pulled a block-face to end of A/C compressor measurement to check against the V/A quoted dimension. It was off and then I noticed the pulleys weren't lined up. Turns out the V/A Frontrunner diagram in the instructions clearly has the spacer in FRONT when it actually goes in the rear. The text of the instructions states the rear too. I moved the spacer and the compressor clears. Still extremely tight though. The spacer fills the gap you see there at the rear of the compressor. There is a spacer on both sides. I just have one side in because it was too tight with the tape on this side :).

You can see from the pics that I don't have the compressor front cover or tensioner cover installed. Primarily because I didn't feel like taking the radiator back out again to put it on. The tensioner is the closest point at ~1/8" of clearance. The fan motor to compressor clearance is closer to 1/4".

I'd like another 1/4" but I've got to figure out where to get that from. One of the header tubes is close enough to the steering box that I think another 1/4" setback might cause it to contact. We'll see when I get the mounts build.

So I did run into another unexpected clearance issue. The PS pump reservoir tank is too close to the UCA. This is a Jones Racing aluminum pump with an extra capacity fab'd aluminum tank. Really cool piece. Too bad it won't clear :(. I'm gonna see about getting a tank made without the bung on the side. I think that will work. Otherwise maybe a less blinged out OE style PS pump is in order. This pump measures 5 1/2" from pump shaft centerline to the outside edge of the tank. I think the OE style plastic tanks are a little narrower.

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/frClearance_zps8408a72b.jpg
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/psPumpClearance_zpse16c15c0.jpg

Here are some shots of the firewall after the setback. Seems a little tight. That Unilite distributor is pretty small so I'm almost sure the firewall will need to be modified for clearance.
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/passFirewallAfterSetback_zps38fdf34e.jpg
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/driversFirewallAfterSetback_zpsb35cded9.jpg

Updated shot of tie-rod to header clearance after pushing engine back. I think a Ridetech TruTurn might clear now.
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/passHeaderAfterSetback_zps46959db3.jpg

[BBC71Nova]

Here is a before shot of the tie-rod clearance.

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d68/BBC71Nova/NovaProject/draglinkPass.jpg

[Moabdude]

So whats the status of this Nova.
Is it finished already?

[jarhead]

So whats the status of this Nova.
Is it finished already?

Was wondering the same thing ?

[Jay Hilliard]

I spoke with John a couple of months ago and its still in progress.

[Novacaine]

And it will be pretty nice when finished. That's some nice sheet metal work that's been done there.

[BBC71Nova]

Hey Guys. I still have it and it is still in progress as Jay mentioned. Been a REALLY slow last couple years so I haven't been too motivated to post any updates. I've had two kids come along which was a game changer as I'm sure many of you can attest to. I have committed to keeping things in perspective as much as possible. They are big enough now that I've been able to carve out a bit more time to work on the car though so that's good. Bad thing now is my son (almost 3) has started asking when we can drive daddy's car. Doh!

I also was struggling with motivation. At every turn there were pretty big issues I'd run into. By big I primarily mean things that I can't easily do and really should be farmed out. Lots of frustration to go around. Spend $1000+ in labor cleaning up a firewall just to later find out it needs to be redone. Spend however much getting a trans tunnel redone just to have to have more work done (driveshaft raised to deal with drive angle).

While I haven't had much time to do fab work, I've worked in time here and there on the engine build. Last year I sent my heads off to be gone through and setup for the build. Told couple weeks or so. Well I sent the shop received them in July and I got them back in almost March (IIRC) of this year. Not a huge issue given my timeline but frustrating because I went with alum shaft rocker setup instead of stainless steel strictly because I didn't want the shop to be held up waiting the 8 weeks for me to get SS option built.

Anyway. I'll get some pics up here soon.

[CCS]

Congratulations!!! Very Nice project!!

[BBC71Nova]

Congratulations? For like the longest running, pita of a project on the forum? Lol

Seriously though this is kind of coincidental in that I literally just dropped it off at Vini’s Hot Rods like 3 hrs ago for some much needed love. Over the last few years I’ve gotten a few small things done here and there and picked up some pretty cool parts along the way but otherwise I just couldn’t get done what needed to be done. I lost my younger brother a couple years ago unexpectedly and that’s been a bit of an eye opener. Time flies and afaik we only get one trip on this ride so if I’m gonna get to enjoy this car then I needed some help.

I need to check my photobucket and see if it’s usable and post up some pics. I’ve mostly been using IG (@urbanlegendnova) but maybe soon I’ll have some interesting progress pics.

Still can’t believe someone resurected this thread from the dead. Maybe that’s some kind of omen lololol.

[medbali76]

I bought my Nova in 2014 and started the project...
Hopefully at the end of this year we can hit the road again. I had several projects that ended up halfway but I will never give up this Nova.
Basically this is my first project that I got very close to finish completely. fingerscrossed :)
Keep it going and show us the progress you will get there one day :cheering:

[CCS]

Really nice!!! I learn here!!

[CCS]

Congratulations? For like the longest running, pita of a project on the forum? Lol

Seriously though this is kind of coincidental in that I literally just dropped it off at Vini’s Hot Rods like 3 hrs ago for some much needed love. Over the last few years I’ve gotten a few small things done here and there and picked up some pretty cool parts along the way but otherwise I just couldn’t get done what needed to be done. I lost my younger brother a couple years ago unexpectedly and that’s been a bit of an eye opener. Time flies and afaik we only get one trip on this ride so if I’m gonna get to enjoy this car then I needed some help.

I need to check my photobucket and see if it’s usable and post up some pics. I’ve mostly been using IG (@urbanlegendnova) but maybe soon I’ll have some interesting progress pics.

Still can’t believe someone resurected this thread from the dead. Maybe that’s some kind of omen lololol.

Go on man!! Is a very hard work here, to loses them. Sorry about your bro.