This is MY 67 Camaro [Archive] - Page 4

Sonar Chief

10-24-2014, 08:52 PM

Chief in the top left of the picture where the slotted hole is does the flat piece sit flat against the frame rail ? Mine has a space between the rail and the bracket where the bolt goes through the slotted hole. that's a lot of sanding for above you head.

Yeah there is a space there btwn the frame, that is the side that the index bolt didn't line up w the frame and kinda went in sideways? I will look at the frame again tomorrow and maybe put some pressure w a jack in see if she'll close the gap, or slot the frame a little ... then I can drill the 18 holes and get the bolts in, that's the plan anyway!

waynieZ

10-24-2014, 08:56 PM

There is a gap on my car too, I'm trying to think of a way to close it up without a ton of cutting on the R.T. frame.

SlowProgress

10-24-2014, 11:06 PM

Seems like you may need to trim the bracket a little in this area. Others on the site must have run into this ?

http://i.imgur.com/E9TnMHAl.png

Sonar Chief

10-26-2014, 07:55 PM

Seems like you may need to trim the bracket a little in this area. Others on the site must have run into this ?

http://i.imgur.com/E9TnMHAl.png

The bracket isn't touching quite there.... I think its cuz the index bolt had to go into the frame at an angle, wasn't drilled in the middle of the frame :confused59:

Good day when the engine stand is empty! Got the underside of the trunk in epoxy and finished buttoning up the engine, still need to set valve lash and finish painting. I wanted to get the engine in and determine the driveline angle for the 4 link onto the 12 bolt.

Figured I'd try the headers I have ... NO GO! Anyone need some coated headers for a SBC?
Anyway, that's it so far, will work on the air bar tomorrow and try to get the holes drilled and cinched up tight to the frame as per the instructions.

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/907/otZvxa.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/661/nfhIl7.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/911/0knmwZ.jpg
Finally installed .... I know the orange doesn't match, I'll have to respray the whole engine ....GRRRRR!
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/745/C92zFM.jpg
Yeah ... they don't fit, need to call AME!

I called POR15 people about the colors not matching and they said they changed the recipe some years ago .... now I have to respray!!! Figure I'll get her running and then just spray the complete engine like GM did ...

Thanks for looking ....

Sonar Chief

10-27-2014, 04:16 PM

frame is in, nice fit too! Called Ride Tech and he said don't be skeered ... the bolts will snug that gap up, it did. There is only a 1/16 that I may put a washer under when the time comes to put her in for good!!!

Will need to trim off a little the frame where the mini tub is a little deeper ... no biggy! Quality products from Ride Tech .... thanks!!!

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/537/yqohPL.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/673/vAeNQA.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/537/5xEODn.jpg

I still have 6 more holes and bolts to install, and mount the sway bar braces, and the floor brackets, but this will hold her for getting the rear end pinion set and such ..... waiting on my u bolts from Speedway, grrrrrr!

So, if its good enough for the 48 Camaro its good enough for my Camaro ... quality product!!

Thanks for looking ...

waynieZ

10-27-2014, 05:17 PM

Mine is an older version it doesn't have the extra tabs to go against the trunk and the ledge in the front. I wonder if I could get the brackets from Ride tech? The lower control arms were shortened on my car to center the wheel in the wheel well so my upper shock mounts need to be adjusted. I guess its coming out !

coolwelder62

10-27-2014, 06:42 PM

Sonar Chief

10-31-2014, 08:07 AM

Not much of an update thou, got the rear end centered and was kinda bummed w the lower control arm location ... seems if you keep your leaf spring it's 42" c2c and if you flip the arms and weld on it's 40" c2c :bang: So I lost an inch of clearance per side using the perches .... these may come off before I'm done.

Used RT jig and centered the upper arm location, just waiting on my tranny ... should be able to pick it up today and get er bolted onto the engine.

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/673/SOWDVL.jpg
Centered and set!

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/538/eWxYWj.jpg
RT's jig for the upper arms

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/661/LyRbRQ.jpg
Lost wheel clearance w the bars on the perch vs welded on :bur2:

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/538/SrHsp3.jpg
My new acquisition!

Should get the tranny today but then it's off to elk camp for a few days ... hopefully get things going next week when I return ...

Have a safe Halloween, thanks for looking ...

waynieZ

10-31-2014, 06:00 PM

It looks good Chief keep plugging away.

You can get the rear sway mount/support brackets tabs from Ridetech if you have an older air/bar setup.

Thanks

SlowProgress

11-02-2014, 08:30 PM

Man this project is really moving along. You have a better work ethic than I do !

Sonar Chief

11-06-2014, 10:28 AM

Man this project is really moving along. You have a better work ethic than I do !

I am between school semesters and had to move quick to get things going .... school started yesterday so things will slow down some.

It looks good Chief keep plugging away.

Thanks

:thankyou:

Picked up the 4L60E on Friday and got her cleaned up a little .... at least its respectable to put under the car now! My roll bar came in :ups: ... looks good too! What I liked was Wild Rides already fish mouthed the bars and was fitted to a 67 Camaro, I just need to trim the height of the main hoop and trim the trunk bars; still contemplating the harness bar ... WELD IN or REMOVABLE, Wild Rides just tacked it in place.

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/674/Py0hZF.jpg
Cleaned up the 4L60E!
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/913/TEIjZq.jpg
Roll bar is 1 3/4 .120 DOM!
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/743/M6zFhF.jpg
Fish mouthed and test fit in a 67 Camaro .... NICE!

Not much of an update ..... school started and I will be preoccupied for awhile, need to get the tranny and engine together and get the rear end set.

More to come, thanks for looking ....

waynieZ

11-06-2014, 03:44 PM

Sweet! good reference points.

coolwelder62

11-06-2014, 07:55 PM

Michael, I have an extra set of Ride Tech weld on lower mount's I will trade you for your bolt on if needed.

Sonar Chief

11-06-2014, 08:24 PM

Michael, I have an extra set of Ride Tech weld on lower mount's I will trade you for your bolt on if needed.

PM sent, thanks.

SilverSS1969

11-07-2014, 02:19 AM

Does anyone have pictures of the weld on lowers for ride tech? I though the kit was bolt on, didnt know they had an option for weld on too?

Jimmy Sean

11-07-2014, 05:09 AM

Does anyone have pictures of the weld on lowers for ride tech? I though the kit was bolt on, didnt know they had an option for weld on too?

I believe these are the ones you are wanting.
http://www.ridetech.com/store/tri-link-axle-bracket.html

Korny

11-07-2014, 08:41 AM

Anyway you can update your pics in your first posts in this thread? They are not showing and I take it those pics were of what the car looked like when you got it. Would like to see that.

Sonar Chief

11-07-2014, 08:54 AM

Anyway you can update your pics in your first posts in this thread? They are not showing and I take it those pics were of what the car looked like when you got it. Would like to see that.

I emailed ImageShack and they are no longer supporting the OLD ImageShack .... so I guess they are gone. I have all the pixs and when I get some time I'll try and upload the old pixs.

Thanks for asking .....

Korny

11-07-2014, 09:59 AM

I emailed ImageShack and they are no longer supporting the OLD ImageShack .... so I guess they are gone. I have all the pixs and when I get some time I'll try and upload the old pixs.

Thanks for asking .....

Cool. Post them up when you can. Even edit your first post and I'll check it out when they are up.

Sonar Chief

11-21-2014, 04:47 PM

prebuild before painting! Well, got the engine out and mated to the 4L60E and slide them under the car and wouldn't you know .... the tranny mount is still too far forward for the frame mounts. I will need to either: modify the cross brace to mate to the brackets on the frame, or cut the brackets off the frame and re-weld them farther forward! Hmmmm.

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/540/viUKmE.jpg
All dressed up and no where to go!
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/913/u9TwDG.jpg
Cross brace is too far forward .... GRRRRR!:superhack:
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/911/1X5Zps.jpg
SHORT....by that far!
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/673/ZYTLUT.jpg
Another view.
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/674/xlMKy8.jpg
Snails view @ 5" ride height, nothing below the crossmember ... yet!

Not much of an update, but my goal was met .... when it warms up to 50's get that dang tranny under the car! Now hopefully tomorrow I'll get the leaf spring brackets cut off the 12 bolt and prepare the weld on brackets and measure the pinion angle for one of many I'm sure!

Thanks for looking .... I've got homework to do now!

coolwelder62

11-21-2014, 07:35 PM

Michael call So I can help you with the problem.

waynieZ

11-21-2014, 08:52 PM

Scott is it possible to mount the cross member to the trans and side brackets and get you pinion angle then weld the brackets to the frame ?

coolwelder62

11-22-2014, 06:49 AM

coolwelder62

11-22-2014, 06:59 AM

Scott is it possible to mount the cross member to the trans and side brackets and get you pinion angle then weld the brackets to the frame ?Wayne, At first that was the Idea I had also. But I came up with this new weld on bracket so Michael didn't have to spend time cutting the old bracket off and grinding.This way he simply center up the new bracket,bevel the crossmember some and weld away.Out of 88 sub frame's I think only 2 or 3 guy's had used auto trans. And those guys I shipped the trans tab bracket's tacked welded so they could make ajustment's.

RdHuggr68

11-22-2014, 07:02 AM

Sonar Chief

11-22-2014, 09:15 AM

Michael, I think this bracket I fabbed up this morning will allow you weld it to the frt of the crossmember and move it back enough to catch the holes in the trans mount tab's. Sorry that you had a hick up. I've never had a 4L60E here for fit. I will start building the trans tabs about 4" longer.I will ship this out ASAP Monday morning.

Scott .... that's perdy! I do appreciate the support and sorry to be different!

Thanks for the support, the bracket should work just fine, it's better than anything I could have come up with :superhack:

Scott is the man, thanks!!!

waynieZ

11-22-2014, 11:00 AM

Thanks Scott. Just trying to think like you fabricators do, but that's a much easier way to do it. Nice solution.

coolwelder62

11-22-2014, 05:48 PM

Thanks Scott. Just trying to think like you fabricators do, but that's a much easier way to do it. Nice solution.Wayne,Your Idea was my first Idea. Then I slept on it and came up w/Plan-B !!!!!! And Plan-B was more work for me,but less work for Michael. And going the extra mile for a customer is alway's the best route !!!!!!!! (Sometime's)

waynieZ

11-22-2014, 08:43 PM

From the work I've seen from you it doesn't surprise me at all.

coolwelder62

11-23-2014, 07:37 AM

From the work I've seen from you it doesn't surprise me at all.Thanks,Wayne.

Sonar Chief

12-05-2014, 04:54 PM

A good day in the garage, it was in the 50's and I had to get something done on the Camaro .... so I finished removal of the spring perches, mocked up the RT weld-on lower brackets, fabbed some 3/16 strap to simulate the shock height at 14.5", and fitted Scott's fix to my tranny mount issue.

Need to recheck the angle of the lower brackets and the side2side center and tack the brackets and tack the tranny adapter in place ... then take it to work and use the BIG welder again.

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/673/gU3wn2.jpg
Got the perch off and ..... YES that is BONDO! WTF?
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/673/jK9iVm.jpg
Mock straps and set width.
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/540/UkxsZn.jpg
Ride Tech setup is sweet!
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/913/52dsNq.jpg
Clamped on Scott's adapter to the crossbrace.
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/673/mpgmy2.jpg
View from bottom ... Scott's welds are beautiful!
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/903/cHSqWZ.jpg
That's why I went w weld on brackets .... an extra inch per side!

Was gonna get the subframe connectors in, but a slight engineering fault (my bad) ... the side plates I welded on are too long and I can't get the connector up in the car and slide past the cross member brace. So I have to pull the front end out and then put the connectors in and then slide the subframe back and line it up w the connectors ..... :gitrdun:

Thanks for looking ....

GregWeld

12-05-2014, 09:38 PM

Rod P

12-06-2014, 09:37 AM

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/903/cHSqWZ.jpg
That's why I went w weld on brackets .... an extra inch per side!

the bolt on axle bracket has also been moved over that extra inch also...I was just mentioning it so if someone wants the bolt on kit they wont think there sacrificing any clearance...sorry for the thread jack

Sonar Chief

12-06-2014, 12:03 PM

Don't ya just love hot rodding!! LOL

Looks good!!

When I'm doing this kind of stuff -- I make "lists".... and then I just cross 'em off as I get 'er done... It's less daunting when you see the list of stuff being crossed off.

Thanks Greg ... if I started a list the light at the end of the tunnel would extinguish!!!

the bolt on axle bracket has also been moved over that extra inch also...I was just mentioning it so if someone wants the bolt on kit they wont think there sacrificing any clearance...sorry for the thread jack

Rod, no jack at all, I encourage comments! If you look at post #761 with the bolt on brackets, there is no other way the lower bars can get mounted, they have to be inline w the perches, yes? Unless I'm really messed up how can you gain extra clearance when the perches are 42" c2c?

Anyway, thanks for looking .....

jlwdvm

12-06-2014, 05:29 PM

Rod P

12-06-2014, 05:55 PM

Rod, no jack at all, I encourage comments! If you look at post #761 with the bolt on brackets, there is no other way the lower bars can get mounted, they have to be inline w the perches, yes? Unless I'm really messed up how can you gain extra clearance when the perches are 42" c2c?

Anyway, thanks for looking .....

The bolt-on perches are offset to the center on each side...that is where you get the 1" extra clearance on each side. They are offset to the center just like both ends of the bar are offset to the center. I have the bolt-on bar mounts on my 69 firebird. I also spent a lot of time squaring up the front and rear wheel mounting surfaces, adjusting the front sub frame, moving the rear side-to-side, etc prior to welding on my upper perches....probably too much time!

All the measuring fun started at #75

Yes like jlwdvm said, we offset the mounting bracket bosses towards the center of the car on the mounting plate......I guess I should stop saying we I leave RideTech in January :thumbsup:

Sonar Chief

12-06-2014, 09:08 PM

The bolt-on perches are offset to the center on each side...that is where you get the 1" extra clearance on each side. They are offset to the center just like both ends of the bar are offset to the center. I have the bolt-on bar mounts on my 69 firebird. I also spent a lot of time squaring up the front and rear wheel mounting surfaces, adjusting the front sub frame, moving the rear side-to-side, etc prior to welding on my upper perches....probably too much time!

http://www.pro-touring.com/threads/102040-1969-Firebird-TA-clone-track-car-build/page4

All the measuring fun started at #75

Joe .... that's a nice Firebird, I had to go back and look at some of the pixs I took of the 4 bar and see the offset of the lower brackets ... duhhhh! I had them on the wrong sides (my bad!), oh well, I think the weld on brackets look cleaner! Hey, its only metal!

I will take your Firebird posts for reference to getting all things square Front2Back, wish I had a lift thou!!!!

Rod ... thanks for the clarification, don't want to be doing this twice :superhack:

Rod P

12-07-2014, 08:01 AM

duhhhh! I had them on the wrong sides (my bad!), oh well, I think the weld on brackets look cleaner! Hey, its only metal!

:poke: it happens....have any build questions just give me a yell...even thou I'm leaving RideTech I can still help you with tech

now :gitrdun:

Sonar Chief

12-07-2014, 08:30 AM

:poke: it happens....have any build questions just give me a yell...even thou I'm leaving RideTech I can still help you with tech

now :gitrdun:

Rod ... appreciate it, may take you up on that!

You know what would be great ... having the instructions updated!!

If RT needs pixs I have plenty that could replace the rusty Camaro that is in the instructions.

Michael

Rod P

12-07-2014, 02:54 PM

Rod ... appreciate it, may take you up on that!

You know what would be great ... having the instructions updated!!

If RT needs pixs I have plenty that could replace the rusty Camaro that is in the instructions.

Michael

ha ha ha agreed! but the same guy that builds the instructions is also the Tech guy so more calls he deals with, the less time he gets to update,,,kinda a double edge sword! because if he could update them he would get less calls!

WSSix

12-07-2014, 04:34 PM

Looking good, Chief.

Sonar Chief

12-09-2014, 10:23 AM

ha ha ha agreed! but the same guy that builds the instructions is also the Tech guy so more calls he deals with, the less time he gets to update,,,kinda a double edge sword! because if he could update them he would get less calls!

Just thought I'd offer some pixs in case he had a minute or two!

Looking good, Chief.

Thanks ... :thumbsup:

Houston we have a problem, got the car on the ground at ride height (25" back) based on 315/30/18's and discovered that the diff cover will come into contact with the RT sway bar with less than 2" of travel ..... and then the diff will come into contact w floor pan ..... GRRRRRR!

I guess I could change out the cover out, clearance the bar, and or channel the trunk pan to get some travel. OR raise the rear end 2", I don't want to have a 4X4 here!

Anyone else run into this? Any suggestions? Rod, what kinda clearance does the 48 Hr have, Brett still has the 12 bolt? Could you measure the ride height at wheel lip?

I have about 4" of clearance in the wheel well before contact occurs and would like more then 2" before contact with hard parts .... any comments or suggestions would be appreciated! ROD?

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/910/GFYSbA.jpg
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/633/jUZ6b0.jpg
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/537/JTakYU.jpg
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/912/4jr7m0.jpg
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/674/CAeK9r.jpg

Thanks for looking .... suggestions welcome!

Sonar Chief

12-12-2014, 07:31 PM

Wow, no one commented! So I went back and looked at many 67 Camaros with RT 4bar and I guess they are that high ... 48 Hour Camaro sits tall in the rear so ...... I raised the car up to 27" and gained clearance on the pumpkin, I think I will raise the trunk a little (similar to a fuel sump just upside down?) and :superhack: clearance the cross bar and re weld it outa the way of the suspension travel of the diff! I'll work on that after I get the rear brackets welded on ...

Finished welding the adapter for the tranny mount, and after measuring 27 times I think I have the brackets on the axles where they belong, the measurements are equal on both sides!!! I need to file the upper brackets down a little so they fit flush to the axle and then time for some heat!

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/538/7pk5Qs.jpg
Brace welded and mounted to the car now!
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/537/2RuR28.jpg
The upper brackets are good ... need to get them flush before welding!

With the adapter on the tranny and mounted I got -4 degrees on the engine and set up the rear for +4 degrees, should be good for final welding this week!

Thanks for looking .....:relax:

KPC67

12-12-2014, 07:48 PM

looking good cheif! keep at it.:thumbsup:

waynieZ

12-12-2014, 08:15 PM

Looking Good! The trans mount came out nice.

bsharpe

12-12-2014, 10:54 PM

i have been watching this thread closely. I am putting scott mocks subframe and ridetechs 4 link under my 71 trans am clone.

I understand why your are frustrated with the 4 link fitment. I was surprised with issues with the subframe and 4 link. try using the directions to install the 4 link on a ford 9 inch. None of the brackets fit.

Keep up the good work and keep posting your progress. it is appreciated.

SlowProgress

12-13-2014, 02:44 PM

Looks like you are moving along. I need to copy your work ethic ! Beautiful day out in the garage in Phoenix !! :thumbsup:

coolwelder62

12-14-2014, 09:21 AM

Michael, Your doing a great job. I hope the trans bracket worked to solve the problem of trans crossmember tab being a little short(and the tig welds looked OK) . I based That bracket length off info & 4L60E measurements I got from the auto recycle yard.Sorry for the inconvenience.:thankyou:

Sonar Chief

12-14-2014, 05:47 PM

looking good chief! keep at it.:thumbsup:

:thankyou: Keeps me outa the bars!

Looking Good! The trans mount came out nice.

:thankyou: Scott did a great job fabbing, and then I welded it to the xmember. Its installed finally!

i have been watching this thread closely. I am putting scott mocks subframe and ridetechs 4 link under my 71 trans am clone.

I understand why your are frustrated with the 4 link fitment. I was surprised with issues with the subframe and 4 link. try using the directions to install the 4 link on a ford 9 inch. None of the brackets fit.

Keep up the good work and keep posting your progress. it is appreciated.

I read your thread .... everything is fine here, I can't go much lower than 27" and then I don't have any travel left. So .... I'm gonna raise the trunk above the diff and clearance the sway bar mounting bar some.

There's always more to come :thankyou:

Looks like you are moving along. I need to copy your work ethic ! Beautiful day out in the garage in Phoenix !! :thumbsup:

When time is precious you gotta get going and make a goal to finish something!

Michael, Your doing a great job. I hope the trans bracket worked to solve the problem of trans crossmember tab being a little short(and the tig welds looked OK) . I based That bracket length off info & 4L60E measurements I got from the auto recycle yard.Sorry for the inconvenience.:thankyou:

:thankyou: Scott, that bracket was great! I will get you the measurements from bell housing to mounting bolt center one of these days .... I'll put it on my list!

Thanks for looking ....

grendel

12-14-2014, 07:10 PM

Looking good.

Sonar Chief

12-20-2014, 03:36 PM

Looking good.

Thanks JJ .... keep picking at it and it will be done!!

welder the last two days! Wanted to get the RT brackets welded on the 12bolt before it got too cold to be in the garage. Measure 12 times and weld once, came out good, I think its only a 1/16 off in the C2C mesurement!

In hindsight I should have moved the Camaro further into the garage before I put it on jackstand .... I didn't have much room to work on the axle, but it keep the heat isolated :confused59:

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/540/uGhNLH.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/540/x0P4ey.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/540/NuCUcz.jpg

I wish everyone a Happy Holiday!!! Cherish the times spent w family and friends and remember those that are serving our country and can't be with their family and friends :military:

Thanks for looking ... see ya!

Michael

RdHuggr68

12-20-2014, 04:04 PM

Thanks JJ .... keep picking at it and it will be done!!

welder the last two days! Wanted to get the RT brackets welded on the 12bolt before it got too cold to be in the garage. Measure 12 times and weld once, came out good, I think its only a 1/16 off in the C2C mesurement!

In hindsight I should have moved the Camaro further into the garage before I put it on jackstand .... I didn't have much room to work on the axle, but it keep the heat isolated :confused59:

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/540/uGhNLH.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/540/x0P4ey.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/540/NuCUcz.jpg

I wish everyone a Happy Holiday!!! Cherish the times spent w family and friends and remember those that are serving our country and can't be with their family and friends :military:

Thanks for looking ... see ya!

Michael

Looks great Michael , can't wait to see it on all fours. Merry Christmas to you too!
Kevin

Roberts68

12-20-2014, 05:46 PM

Merry Christmas to you and yours as well Chief, Thank you.

Great pictures of great looking brackets, I like the little Ridetech symbols laser cut in them. That's a cool detail I had not previously noticed.

waynieZ

12-20-2014, 06:48 PM

Merry Christmas to you and your family Chief. Its looking good.

tubbed69

12-20-2014, 07:14 PM

Merry Christmas Micheal,I wish I could weld that nice,looking good:thumbsup: :thumbsup:

SlowProgress

12-21-2014, 08:42 PM

That's looking really good. And to continue the theme have a Merry Christmas !

rickpaw

12-22-2014, 05:28 AM

That's looking really good. And to continue the theme have a Merry Christmas !

+1. And Merry Christmas.

Sonar Chief

12-22-2014, 10:30 AM

Looks great Michael , can't wait to see it on all fours. Merry Christmas to you too!
Kevin

:thankyou: Have a Happy Holiday ... might get snow!

Merry Christmas to you and yours as well Chief, Thank you.

Great pictures of great looking brackets, I like the little Ridetech symbols laser cut in them. That's a cool detail I had not previously noticed.

:thankyou: Its a pretty sweet setup, Happy Holidays!

Merry Christmas to you and your family Chief. Its looking good.

:thankyou: :flag2: and Merry Christmas to you and family!

Merry Christmas Micheal,I wish I could weld that nice,looking good:thumbsup: :thumbsup:

:thankyou: I make due :confused59: Merry Christmas!

That's looking really good. And to continue the theme have a Merry Christmas !

:thankyou: Your car is looking great, love the blue! Merry Christmas!

+1. And Merry Christmas.

:thankyou: Have a Merry Christmas!

Sonar Chief

12-24-2014, 04:01 PM

on jackstands! :headspin: Not much of an update today, but I did get the rear suspended on its own ... I know they are not RT coilovers, but they'll do to move the car around and finish the build!

Santa is bringing me my ....., well you'll see on Friday! I also ordered a .... that will have to be modified to fit, hopefully it will work! No one else is going this route so its up to me to figure it out :popcorn2:

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/661/q5YVga.jpg
Sitting on er own .... might be a little low!

Happy Holidays to all!

Thanks for looking .... I have homework to do!

Michael

Roberts68

12-24-2014, 09:00 PM

Looking forward to the next update. Merry Christmas Michael

MillerBuilt

12-25-2014, 09:24 AM

Joe .... that's a nice Firebird, I had to go back and look at some of the pixs I took of the 4 bar and see the offset of the lower brackets ... duhhhh! I had them on the wrong sides (my bad!), oh well, I think the weld on brackets look cleaner! Hey, its only metal!

I will take your Firebird posts for reference to getting all things square Front2Back, wish I had a lift thou!!!!

Just a suggestion, but 90% of the time while adding/welding suspension brackets AFTER housing ends have been installed, you will find if checked, that your wheels are now toed/cambered and even worse each side is different creating anything but a harmonious situation between opposing wheels.

A fairly simple check can be done and may take two people to get accurate numbers.

If possible, and with wheels bolted on (or bolt on toe plates if you have some), pull a measurement from drivers side to passenger side across rearend, from back side of wheel to back side of wheel "lip"

1st check across the back side of the rearend, 2nd at the front side of the rearend and compare the numbers (they should be the same). 3rd check across the top side of the rearend, and 4th check across the bottom side of the rearend (again, these numbers should be the same). If these numbers are all the same, then you are running parallel and should allow perfect alignment between both rear wheels and with your front.
If these numbers are not the same then you need to correct by laying down a few stitches/welds (that will need to be ground in the direction you want to pull it back in and possibly even quenching with water immediately after to get the needed results. I cannot tell you how many people NEVER check this critical measurement and assume that all is good. Even NEW complete housings should be checked because I have personally seen many big brand name complete housings that failed horribly... I hope this is not your case but figured I would mention before you powder coat.

Jay

Sonar Chief

12-25-2014, 12:12 PM

Looking forward to the next update. Merry Christmas Michael

Merry Christmas to you as well!

Just a suggestion, but 90% of the time while adding/welding suspension brackets AFTER housing ends have been installed, you will find if checked, that your wheels are now toed/cambered and even worse each side is different creating anything but a harmonious situation between opposing wheels.

A fairly simple check can be done and may take two people to get accurate numbers.

If possible, and with wheels bolted on (or bolt on toe plates if you have some), pull a measurement from drivers side to passenger side across rearend, from back side of wheel to back side of wheel "lip"

1st check across the back side of the rearend, 2nd at the front side of the rearend and compare the numbers (they should be the same). 3rd check across the top side of the rearend, and 4th check across the bottom side of the rearend (again, these numbers should be the same). If these numbers are all the same, then you are running parallel and should allow perfect alignment between both rear wheels and with your front.
If these numbers are not the same then you need to correct by laying down a few stitches/welds (that will need to be ground in the direction you want to pull it back in and possibly even quenching with water immediately after to get the needed results. I cannot tell you how many people NEVER check this critical measurement and assume that all is good. Even NEW complete housings should be checked because I have personally seen many big brand name complete housings that failed horribly... I hope this is not your case but figured I would mention before you powder coat.

Jay

Jay .... thanks for the advise, I will certainly check these measurements to ensure the axle is true, I didn't weld on the c-clip eliminators but I did check the axle with a straight edge.

Again, thanks for the advise .... learn something new everyday, KOOL!

Happy Holidays to all ...... supposed to get 10 inches of snow here!!!!

RdHuggr68

12-25-2014, 01:04 PM

Great progress Michael,hope you had a great Christmas . I will check in tomorrow to see what Santa is bring you.
Kevin

Sonar Chief

12-26-2014, 02:11 PM

and brought some car stuff, he's cool! :ups: So I figures just cuz there's 7 inches of snow and its 23 degrees out I should get in the garage and test fit the rack. I did change up from the norm cuz I'm going w a manual rack and an EPS unit from GM (that'll be later), but I didn't plan on the dimensions being different from a power unit .... that's hot rodding!

So the game plan is to modify the drivers side motor mount to clear a DD joint, not sure yet how to do this .... Scott might have some ideas. Then the C5 knuckle needs a mod to flush up the steering arm on the knuckle. And the front brace needs clearance for the rack to frame bolt, thinking cut at the front and score the back and bend it to 90 towards the front and weld. Any suggestions would be appreciated!!! :popcorn2:

Here's the rack installed and the trouble areas ..... may need to send it back!!!!

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/538/aqpuDE.jpg
Thanks to my sister!

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/537/dRaBUl.jpg
A little too tight here!

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/540/m8KXCp.jpg
Need to clearance this for the bolt head!

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/905/WLcdep.jpg
Drivers side assembled

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/540/KGgsdD.jpg
Need to flush up this pad for the steering arm to sit flush!

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/540/ZJ3mYl.jpg
Overall view!

I still need to get over to Fastenal and get the metric bolts for the knuckle to steering arm and order some pinch clamps to get rid of those zipties ...

Anyway, good to get something done and make a plan to get all this working.

Thanks for looking .... hope Santa brought yous guys cool stuff too!

waynieZ

12-26-2014, 03:14 PM

Now that Santa brought you this to continue with the build you'll forget all about the snow and cold once you get into it. Nice!

RdHuggr68

12-26-2014, 04:18 PM

Wow Michael everything is looking great are you spraying the subframe or having it powdercoated?
Kevin

Sonar Chief

12-26-2014, 04:32 PM

Now that Santa brought you this to continue with the build you'll forget all about the snow and cold once you get into it. Nice!

What snow? As long as it stays outa my garage I'm good. No snow up there? :thankyou:

Wow Michael everything is looking great are you spraying the subframe or having it powdercoated?
Kevin

Kevin ... I'm gonna just paint it myself when I do the underside of the Camaro, that's the plan anyway?

coolwelder62

12-26-2014, 04:41 PM

Sonar Chief

12-26-2014, 04:56 PM

Aftermarket rack's are slightly different then (FOMOCO) made racks. I test fit every frame w/a rack so I know the gusset will clear. On the mullet car john used a flaming river rack, I needed to grind some of the gusset back to clear it also. But a real ford rack fits.

Scott, thanks for looking, do you think I should send this back and get a FOMOCO rack then? Is this gonna hold up? I thought as a kit it would work out better, guess not.

Build-It-Break-it

12-26-2014, 05:18 PM

Looks like you could grind material off the front rack mount to clear the mounting bolt.

Sonar Chief

12-26-2014, 05:24 PM

Looks like you could grind material off the front rack mount to clear the mounting bolt.

Yeah I flipped it 180* it won't fit either way ... a button head 5/8 bolt might help thou!

Build-It-Break-it

12-26-2014, 05:30 PM

Yeah I flipped it 180* it won't fit either way ... a button head 5/8 bolt might help thou!

Or maybe swap to an Allen head bolt? It may take awhile to tighten tho. I had the same problem on my mustang rack but I'm just going to grind the front mounting brackets where the bolts are hitting .

grendel

12-26-2014, 06:23 PM

Do none of that:

Offset rack and pinion bushings:

http://www.summitracing.com/search/part-type/rack-and-pinion-bushings/offset-bushing/yes

coolwelder62

12-26-2014, 06:33 PM

Michael,how about I send my new design for free on Monday. I can send you the alum. parts and you can just cut off the bent bracket drill 2 holes and your done.

grendel

12-26-2014, 06:42 PM

Michael,how about I send my new design for free on Monday. I can send you the alum. parts and you can just cut off the bent bracket drill 2 holes and your done.

Or way and above and beyond the call of duty: Scott does it again.

Edit: with the offset bushings I linked, it will move the rack input away from the gusset.

Sonar Chief

12-26-2014, 07:28 PM

Do none of that:

Offset rack and pinion bushings:

http://www.summitracing.com/search/part-type/rack-and-pinion-bushings/offset-bushing/yes

Michael,how about I send my new design for free on Monday. I can send you the alum. parts and you can just cut off the bent bracket drill 2 holes and your done.

Scott .... just have to get longer bolts for the Al standoffs?

Thanks again for willing to solve problems, I do appreciate it!

Or way and above and beyond the call of duty: Scott does it again. SCOTT DOES PROVIDE SERVICE AFTER THE SALE!

Edit: with the offset bushings I linked, it will move the rack input away from the gusset.

Jay .... I see what you're stepping in, use the offset bushing to the pass side instead of its intended use for lowered vehicle ( put em @ 9 o'clock instead of 6 o'clock).

I'll try the offset bushings and mod the front if I have too!

Thanks for helping guys!!!

grendel

12-26-2014, 07:34 PM

I see what you're stepping in, use the offset bushing to the pass side instead of its intended use for lowered vehicle ( put em @ 9 o'clock instead of 6 o'clock).

I'll try the offset bushings and mod the front if I have too!

Thanks for helping guys!!!

Correct. There is enough threads on the rack ends to take up the offset of the rack to clear the steering input.

waynieZ

12-26-2014, 08:08 PM

Two great fixes !

coolwelder62

12-26-2014, 08:13 PM

I'll send longer bolt's also.

coolwelder62

12-29-2014, 11:30 AM

Sonar Chief

12-29-2014, 11:50 AM

Michael, As promised I was able to get the alum. center support fabbed and welded for you. I Don't have any 3/8 x 5.5" grade 8 bolt's in stock.I will pick up some bolts when I go to town to ship this out to you N/C. Sorry for the inconvenience.

Scott ... that is gorgeous!!! No problem here, my bad by not getting a FOMOCO rack, but your solution is great. I ordered the offset bushings already, hopefully that'll take care of this part.

Thank you,

Michael

coolwelder62

12-30-2014, 11:04 AM

Michael,I thought I would show the different Rack & Pinion steering shaft angles. See how close the shaft from the jegs rack is very close to the top of the motor mount. And how much clearance there is on john's flaming river rack. The shaft angle is steeper on your rack.

Sonar Chief

12-30-2014, 11:51 AM

Scott ... I see the difference. Wouldn't it be nice if you could clock the rack to suite your needs?

Changing the angle of the dangle :y0!:

Thanks Scott

coolwelder62

12-30-2014, 11:55 AM

Michael, if I were you I'd cut off the 5/8 threaded rack mounting bungs that I welded on and build some mustang II style rack mount's you could keep this manual rack.I will find a photo and post up. Welders series co. builds some.These are $8.00 dollars each and will fix your problems.http://www.welderseries.com/blog/?s=must+II+rack+mount

coolwelder62

12-30-2014, 12:00 PM

The above bracket from welders series will allow you too keep your rack and get the ujoint clearance you need all for $16.00 plus shipping.Cheaper than the the cost of shipping your rack back too jegs.

Sonar Chief

12-30-2014, 12:36 PM

Scott ... thanks for the link, that is outstanding idea there, coming soon to me :ups:

Sonar Chief

01-06-2015, 04:24 PM

Good day in the garage, suppose to get up to 50 so that's good enough for me, I wanted to get the drivers side suspension done before the temps drop! I received the bracket the Scott made for the rack mount, and received the offset bushings.

I can't use the bushings yet my rack mount does not have a metal sleeve .... which the new bushings don't' come with, maybe order some! Mocked up it didn't provide enough clearance so I put it back together and fitted the bracket to the mounts ... I may need to shim w some nylon washers to bring it out flush with the lower arm bolts.

Anyway ... got the drivers side pad flushed with the steering arm mount, drilled the knuckle mount to 12mm and mounted the steering arm and re assembled the unit .... done for now, just need to do the same for the other side and get some alignment base numbers for mockup of wheel and such.

Ground down the lower pad for the arm to sit flush and square!
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/661/Afu0ud.jpg

Forward steering arm hole needed to be 12mm for the through bolt ... check!
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/673/9U98qA.jpg

Checking geometry for the swar bar through travel!
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/673/MukmzV.jpg

Cut off the old mounts and put on the new version that Scott made ... may need to shim the bracket, little bow when tightened!
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/673/IXClNm.jpg

Now this mess is for tomorrow!!!
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/913/AqomX7.jpg

I am waiting on the rack mount from Welders Series .... tomorrow? Now that I have some time on my hands (my semester is over the 12th) I plan as much done .... weather permitting of course :popcorn2:

Thanks for looking .... Scott thanks for the bracket!!

coolwelder62

01-06-2015, 06:43 PM

Sonar Chief

01-06-2015, 06:55 PM

Michael,The casting bump on the kuckle needs to be milled or ground down so lower steering arm bolt hole is the same thickness as the upper bolt hole.You can drill the lower hole with a 1/2" drill bit. Use a 12mm or 1/2" bolt & nylock nut.

Scott .... all that is already done, that's why the drivers side is put together, I'll work on the passenger side tomorrow :knokwood:

Thanks again!

Michael

coolwelder62

01-06-2015, 07:06 PM

Sorry Michael I see that now.

waynieZ

01-06-2015, 08:17 PM

Great progress! Never thought I'd say this to someone in Colorado, but can you send some of that heat (50's) this way? Nice job!

Sonar Chief

01-07-2015, 11:41 AM

Great progress! Never thought I'd say this to someone in Colorado, but can you send some of that heat (50's) this way? Nice job!

Thanks Wayne ... I thought it was odd that we were in the upper 40's :relax: , it didn't last long ... it's 16 out now, maybe hit 21? I gotta take advantage of the good days and work when I can.

Keep everything perishable inside or covered! lol

waynieZ

01-07-2015, 12:55 PM

I hear ya I'm going to try to put poly on my ceiling in the garage to try to keep a little heat from my propane bullet heater in there. Stay warm!

Sonar Chief

01-07-2015, 01:19 PM

I hear ya I'm going to try to put poly on my ceiling in the garage to try to keep a little heat from my propane bullet heater in there. Stay warm!

That's funny, cuz I'm going to HD tomorrow and buy the R13 rigid insulation for the rafters too keep what heat I can generate from my torpedo heater inside the garage .... too cold today to work outside!

grendel

01-07-2015, 04:10 PM

Looking good shipmate.

Sonar Chief

01-14-2015, 04:21 PM

Looking good shipmate.

Thanks JJ ... your Camaro is coming along nicely too!

Finally warmed up here and I got the passenger side knuckle all bolted up and ready to go, still have to check toe and all that too!

So, my rack and pinion bracket came from Paul Horton's and thought I'd go see how it fit .... well 20 degrees change in the mounting plane changed the whole enchilada, not sure I need 20 degrees as I could take some of the angle off the plate.

I put all the dash and the steering wheel in to see how they line up ... hmmm, the angle of the dangle is off, is is too much? Take a look and advise, I looked at the Stielow Bible for reference, gonna need a different column fer sure.

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/538/i0gsGj.jpg
Angle of the dangle is off, hmmmm ...
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/911/ThUiDq.jpg
New bracket set in place fer now.
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/661/n3XzNQ.jpg
Drivers side setting there, may be too high!
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/538/MCPdzA.jpg
20 degrees changed the plane alot!
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/913/qY3RW5.jpg
Another view of the clearacnce.
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/907/gPN9m1.jpg
Top down pix looks ok ....
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/673/7sqKyv.jpg
It's looking like an interior of a Camaro!

Change one thing and you have to fix two other things .... that's hot rodding! I know I have to keep the CL of the pinion where is was to keep bump steer to a minimum, is there any thing else I need to check before I change to these mounts?

Thanks for looking ....

coolwelder62

01-14-2015, 06:21 PM

Beach Cruiser

01-15-2015, 07:27 AM

You should be able to use your stock column without cutting it up. I used the flange adaptor from here: http://www.cachassisworks.com/c-1040-custom-build-components.aspx

Then a standard U-joint down on the rack and it should clear. My rack is also tilted, but maybe not as far as yours. I'm using a Ford Thunder SC power rack.

http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff356/n2sking/52E370B2-5CE1-4D76-9CB0-55A20F6A27D9_zpst2lgbhqy.jpg (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/n2sking/media/52E370B2-5CE1-4D76-9CB0-55A20F6A27D9_zpst2lgbhqy.jpg.html)

http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff356/n2sking/8DB71876-4904-4F34-B55B-992691615CBA_zps7mkdljrz.jpg (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/n2sking/media/8DB71876-4904-4F34-B55B-992691615CBA_zps7mkdljrz.jpg.html)

Sonar Chief

01-15-2015, 08:20 AM

If you cut the column flange off then weld & bolt a short pc of double D shaft in the end of the column it will give you more room the straighten the angle of the steering shaft out.Then grind some of back side of the paul hortons mount plates and you should be go to go.

Scott ... that's why I referenced Stielow's bible, good pixs! Still weighing the cost and benefits of all this!

You should be able to use your stock column without cutting it up. I used the flange adaptor from here: http://www.cachassisworks.com/c-1040-custom-build-components.aspx

Then a standard U-joint down on the rack and it should clear. My rack is also tilted, but maybe not as far as yours. I'm using a Ford Thunder SC power rack.

http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff356/n2sking/52E370B2-5CE1-4D76-9CB0-55A20F6A27D9_zpst2lgbhqy.jpg (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/n2sking/media/52E370B2-5CE1-4D76-9CB0-55A20F6A27D9_zpst2lgbhqy.jpg.html)

http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff356/n2sking/8DB71876-4904-4F34-B55B-992691615CBA_zps7mkdljrz.jpg (http://s539.photobucket.com/user/n2sking/media/8DB71876-4904-4F34-B55B-992691615CBA_zps7mkdljrz.jpg.html)

That there is a good idea .... that's why I have my Camaro on this site, great people to share ideas with :thankyou: :thankyou:

Beach Cruiser

01-15-2015, 08:59 AM

Sonar Chief

01-15-2015, 09:24 AM

Since the column is in the same place, and the a-arms and rack should be as well, there's no reason it shouldn't work with Scotts subframe. Only issue I can see is that his A-arm mounts are taller than mine. If you look early in my build thread you can see more details without the sheet metal and all in the way.

I'll check the angles and such later today .... these Unisteer joints are huge compared to the Borgeson's joints, I may switch them out to gain clearance!

efs69

01-15-2015, 04:24 PM

Not sure if this will help you but here is my similar frame with Unisteer. I was able to remove the rag joint mount from my tilt column and used a Unisteer adapter. My rack isn't tilted.

Steve68

01-18-2015, 08:02 AM

Looking good chief!!!

Beach cruiser, you don't have a lock washer or any washers under the nuts on your upper control arms, why not?? aren't you worried about those parts coming loose?

GregWeld

01-18-2015, 08:05 AM

Looking good chief!!!

Beach cruiser, you don't have a lock washer or any washers under the nuts on your upper control arms, why not?? aren't you worried about those parts coming loose?

He's using Nylocks

Sonar Chief

01-18-2015, 04:27 PM

Thanks for the pixs guys, I do appreciate all opinions!

Not much to show today, as far as the Camaro that is .... spent this weekend putting up rigid insulation for a ceiling in the garage (tired of freezing my ... off!) came out nice still need to tape the edges.

My buddy and I pulled the subframe (w motor and tranny ...Uggg) forward to get my subframe connectors in, PITA :buttkick: Should have pulled the engine combo first, oh well it in and I'm tired of working w that Styrofoam stuff, what a mess that was, I want to work on the Camaro for awhile!

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/631/PiksZh.jpg
Its brighter too w the reflection.
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/661/yao1vh.jpg
They are in, still need to push them back flush and get the welder out and make some heat!

I'm gonna go and work on the Camaro now ... no more insulation stuff, supposed to snow tomorrow too, perfect timing!!

Thanks for comments guys .....

Sonar Chief

01-20-2015, 06:25 PM

welding generates heat! So I worked on getting the subframe connectors lined up and snug .... (a little anal retentive) I had to open one side to get the subframe to line up with the rear frame rail and left a gap on one side, grrrrr.

Well I got the connectors in and welded to the floor, still need to attach the seat metal to the floor, waiting on warmer day to spray some epoxy under the seat frames.

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/673/658I0H.jpg
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/661/oWl2oV.jpg

That's all I have for today, that actually took longer than I thought it would ...:headspin: , but it's done!

Thanks for looking ...

Build-It-Break-it

01-20-2015, 06:41 PM

Any progress is good . Looking good chief.

Roberts68

01-20-2015, 07:24 PM

When you say you had to trim more and it left a gap on the opposite side how thick was it? Did you have to put a filler strip in there or just lay a fat bead?... Or overlay a little with the bead?

Did you feel comfortable aligning and working alone or did you have some help? I remember you mentioned having a buddy doing the bull work but wondered about the measure twice and weld once parts.

Sonar Chief

01-20-2015, 08:30 PM

Any progress is good . Looking good chief.

Thanks, wished it was summer thou!

When you say you had to trim more and it left a gap on the opposite side how thick was it? Did you have to put a filler strip in there or just lay a fat bead?... Or overlay a little with the bead?

Did you feel comfortable aligning and working alone or did you have some help? I remember you mentioned having a buddy doing the bull work but wondered about the measure twice and weld once parts.

I had to shift the passenger connector over in the back to align w the rear rail, yes that left a gap on the outside, I used a copper backer and laid down a wide bead .... slowly!

I always work alone, I had Tom come over to muscle the subframe and help take cross measurements (hard to hold both end of the tape measure myself) and today I double checked everything w my laser level and had to fix the angle of the dangle. I didn't get the template exactly square, that the only thing I could think of .... so I fixed it!

Thanks for asking ....

clill

01-20-2015, 09:43 PM

He's using Nylocks
You are looking at the wrong pic. Beachcruiser just has nuts with no lock washers.

Beach Cruiser

01-21-2015, 05:13 AM

Yes there are Nylocks on the steering column, and the A arms are using a generous amount of lock tight on them. Those fasteners are on my pre race weekend check list, along with about 200 more spots!

Sonar Chief

01-23-2015, 05:58 PM

Good day in the garage .... Figure I'd start on the roll bar now that the connectors are welded in solid, got the drivers side pretty much done. Still need to bend the floor plates to match the rocker panel and put the kicker bars onto the connector, but that's easy.

I gave the roll bar a little angle to match the quarter window and to make it easy to weld the top joints with the roof off ... finally be able to weld on the roof after the quarters are on! I even installed the rear window to make sure it didn't hit, we're good.

Take a look ....
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/901/QOu031.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/540/QthvMW.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/538/2kkteL.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/538/wXQboo.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/673/5UzAHx.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/537/xwFVuE.jpg

That's all, I'll work on the passenger side tomorrow and get the kickers mocked up and then add some heat ....

Thanks for looking .....

ataves1

01-23-2015, 06:14 PM

Roll bar looks good! nice work

Build-It-Break-it

01-23-2015, 07:54 PM

Hey chief, I see your using wire as an extra person to help hold your cage. I do all my own work myself to and what I did was use a couple of pieces of scrap 2"angle iron and 4 harbor freight clamps. Drilled a few of holes in everything and attached. They work amazing ,fast and only cost about $6 bucks total. They're a time saver . Sorry if the pictures are hard to see but I had to crop them a lot to upload them. There's only a picture of one of the clamps I made, the other is half the size. Hope this makes sense and helps you or others.

P.s. if anyone makes these use nylock nuts so you can adjust the amount of tension you need when bolting the clamps to the angle iron.

waynieZ

01-23-2015, 09:40 PM

Chief its coming along, looks good, but I don't think that wire is going to pass tech inspection. :thumbsup:

Ahmad good idea.

Build-It-Break-it

01-23-2015, 10:33 PM

Thanks Wayne. I think the clamps are more affordable and universal then magnets. Plus they don't mess with the arc like a magnet will when tack welding.

Greg from Aus

01-23-2015, 10:47 PM

tubbed69

01-24-2015, 05:48 AM

Really starting to come together now,top notch fab work all the way:thumbsup: :thumbsup:

Sonar Chief

01-25-2015, 05:54 PM

Roll bar looks good! nice work

Thanks... its time consuming to get it right!

Chief its coming along, looks good, but I don't think that wire is going to pass tech inspection. :thumbsup:

Ahmad good idea.

I thought it was better than duct tape :lostmarbles:

Thanks Wayne. I think the clamps are more affordable and universal then magnets. Plus they don't mess with the arc like a magnet will when tack welding.

So I use the same clamps from HF so I made up something similar .... works good thanks for the tip!!

Nice work.

Thanks ... your car is awesome!

Really starting to come together now,top notch fab work all the way:thumbsup: :thumbsup:

Thanks, the fitment is really close and that makes it a whole lot easier to fine tune!

Here is some pixs, still need to fine tune the angle for the main hoop (85 degrees) and bend the plates for the floor.

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/673/foQxAr.jpg
Made some clamps to hold her in place!
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/661/kIIQ6c.jpg
Rear window is in place ... plenty of clearance!
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/661/k5JFsg.jpg
Kickers tuned to fit the connectors!
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/911/1HBsPg.jpg
Better view ... looking cool!

There's tomorrow for the rest (1) fine tune the trunk drops (2) bend all the plates to fit (3) get help to take off the roof so I don't taco the roof (4) start welding!!!!

This is time consuming to get it fit really nice, but it's paying off fer sure!

Thanks for looking ....

waynieZ

01-25-2015, 08:15 PM

It looks good!

Beach Cruiser

01-26-2015, 04:34 AM

Cage looks really good, nice work. Just a note, if you think there may be some racing in your future with NASA or SCCA, you might want to take a look at the rules for the cage before you finish up. For a race spec cage, the rear downbars can not have any bends in them for instance.

Sonar Chief

01-26-2015, 02:37 PM

It looks good!

Thanks Wayne .... since you have a Nor'easter and we are 70 degrees I would do a little color selection and get outa the garage.

Cage looks really good, nice work. Just a note, if you think there may be some racing in your future with NASA or SCCA, you might want to take a look at the rules for the cage before you finish up. For a race spec cage, the rear downbars can not have any bends in them for instance.

Thanks for the heads up .... I don't plan on any racing the Camaro in classes, just being prepared for the worst and the best handling I can get!

So, since its so nice out I figured I'd spray some color and narrow down a color choice .... not an easy task fer sure.

Anyway, here is a matte blue that is interesting, I might try a grey also ...
The extension was not body shaped, just in primer, the dent will buff out :lol:
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/673/I3FLb3.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/537/ug94BK.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/909/0BclPJ.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/537/K4HA4F.jpg

Intimidator3

01-26-2015, 07:06 PM

Sonar Chief

01-27-2015, 05:45 PM

What dent? :warning:

hehe

Man, can't believe the progress you have been making. It is always good to switch channels and do some painting to kind of unwind after being neck deep in fabbing, and other demanding parts of a project.

Hey that dent, your are right about taking a break from fabbing ... and thanks!

Well, picked a couple more colors today and sprayed the extension again ... the grey is alright but the blackblue may be the ticket.

Got the roof off, fabbed up the floor plates, cleaned all the mill scale and rust off the roll bars ... looks kick azz in brushed, may just clear over this!!

Gonna work on the truck plates, had to put in the tubs to check clearance ... then some heat!

Take a look ...

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/537/SE87Xz.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/540/3lDxAk.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/540/dyk2hb.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/661/v5Aph5.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/911/nti1ac.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/909/yXYt0h.jpg

More work tonight after dinner, gotta mock the trunk bars and bend the plates ..... there is always something!

Thanks for looking ....

waynieZ

01-27-2015, 06:23 PM

Your moving right along. It looks good.

GregWeld

01-27-2015, 07:28 PM

Good progress! Progress is good! Progress on almost anything helps to motivate.

One of the things I tend to do is think something is going to be hard - or that it'll take a lot of figuring.... but if ya just pick up a tool - and do something - whatever "it" was that you thought was going to be hard usually isn't. LOL

Sonar Chief

01-27-2015, 07:46 PM

Your moving right along. It looks good.

Thanks Wayne .... how much snow you get?

Good progress! Progress is good! Progress on almost anything helps to motivate.

One of the things I tend to do is think something is going to be hard - or that it'll take a lot of figuring.... but if ya just pick up a tool - and do something - whatever "it" was that you thought was going to be hard usually isn't. LOL

Well said, most times it looks hard and if you don't get out in the garage and try .... it never gets done!!!!

Trying to get as much done before my next classes start here in Feb .... steady the course.

Intimidator3

01-27-2015, 07:46 PM

Kick A$$!

Roberts68

01-28-2015, 07:06 AM

One of the things I tend to do is think something is going to be hard - or that it'll take a lot of figuring.... but if ya just pick up a tool - and do something - whatever "it" was that you thought was going to be hard usually isn't. LOL

Over-analysis paralysis or paralysis by analysis. I suffer from that... never knew there was a name for it until I read it on here somewhere.
I prefer procrastinating perfectionist but the gist is that I want it to turn out so nice and be so thought out I fail to begin.

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/537/SE87Xz.jpg

Looks like you need to buzz a hole shut by the subframe connector Chief?

Great work as usual. I think you need a few more parts to spray so you can give yourself an assortment to view. I think I like the medium blue but normally those hues are not my favorite blues. Rhyme unintended.:BlahBlah:

Like Track Rat, the color may be an exception on a car as impressive as yours will be. I didn't think I would like Makita blue on Track Rat but it works.

That said, the Midnight blue could be cool especially with a stripe.

Steve68

01-28-2015, 02:20 PM

Yes there are Nylocks on the steering column, and the A arms are using a generous amount of lock tight on them. Those fasteners are on my pre race weekend check list, along with about 200 more spots!

OK, just checking, weird seeing no lock washers, or nylocks or other style of lock nuts on suspension parts,

Sonar Chief

02-03-2015, 08:17 PM

to be in the garage .... in the 50's! Well, this roll bar is taking longer than I thought to get the angle of the dangle to match on two sides and level with the car. So here is the progress so far, I gotter pretty close for welding, hopefully work on the trunk bars tomorrow and finish this roll bar once and for all!

Oh, I didn't feel like thinking the other day so I sanded the EDP off the quarter, figure once you get started might as well finish it ... its gotta be done sometime :wacko:

Anyhow .... here's some pictures of many hours of compound angle sanding?

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/540/Y5WqVj.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/537/azBdaF.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/537/6qeDEH.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/537/KtKLeL.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/537/iu5jxR.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/540/L9hbs4.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/538/3bLLYe.jpg

Supposed to be snowing be the am ... fire up the heater and get this done!

Thanks for looking ...

Build-It-Break-it

02-04-2015, 12:20 AM

Nice progress! having the roof off already helps a lot to. You didn't have to cut holes in the floor to drop the cage so that's nice. Good planning

Ron in SoCal

02-04-2015, 08:03 AM

As usual Chief, your work looks stellar.

Justin@EntropyRad

02-04-2015, 08:46 AM

Diggin' the metal work!

waynieZ

02-04-2015, 04:52 PM

"to be in the garage .... in the 50's!"
I put the propane heater on for a half hour and it only got up to 21 degrees .
Your killing me here!
Nice work, your doing a great job......... Not too hot in there for ya is it?
Glad your catching a brake with the weather.

Sonar Chief

02-04-2015, 06:02 PM

Nice progress! having the roof off already helps a lot to. You didn't have to cut holes in the floor to drop the cage so that's nice. Good planning

That's something I did right! :headspin:

As usual Chief, your work looks stellar.

Thanks Ron appreciate it!!

Diggin' the metal work!

She's getting there ... little chunks at a time!

"to be in the garage .... in the 50's!"
I put the propane heater on for a half hour and it only got up to 21 degrees .
Your killing me here!
Nice work, your doing a great job......... Not too hot in there for ya is it?
Glad your catching a brake with the weather.

That was the other day, it snowed last night and it never got above 28, luckily I put the rigid insulation in for a ceiling and that makes a difference!

Well, get the heater out and finish the trunk bars, got the plates fitting the floor nice and tight, and the bars are there .... may sand the pass side just a hair more.

Went ahead and tacked the main hoop in place for reference on the other bars .... work on it some more tomorrow, 50's :thumbsup:

SlowProgress

02-04-2015, 06:29 PM

You have a great work ethic. Just keep plugging away and it will be running soon !!

Intimidator3

02-06-2015, 10:34 AM

I hate to sound like a broken record, but all I can say everytime I see the progress is "wow".
:weld: :superhack: :D

Great work, Chief. Keep pluggin' at it!

Sonar Chief

02-09-2015, 02:16 PM

You have a great work ethic. Just keep plugging away and it will be running soon !!

The goal is to have it running this summer and drive the heck outa it!

I hate to sound like a broken record, but all I can say everytime I see the progress is "wow".
:weld: :superhack: :D

Great work, Chief. Keep pluggin' at it!

Thanks ....

Figured since it was gonna be 72 degrees out I'd roll the car outside, get the garage paint booth going and get the quarter and the wheel houses in epoxy. I did finish the drivers side trunk plate, that is what necessitated taking off that side of the car.

I'll work on the plates tomorrow and should get the roll bar welded ... we'll see.

Some pixs ...

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/661/ug5S1B.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/661/S5bzDp.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/911/r8xYpF.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/633/PucHXT.jpg

Supposed the snow again Wednesday so I'll have to get busy and finish the roll bar and maybe primer ...

Thanks for looking ....

Sonar Chief

02-14-2015, 07:39 PM

Got some welding done .... I double checked all the angles and fired up the welder, most welds went well ... except towards the end the wire feed was acting up :headscratch: I ended up with more wire on the floor then the car.

Anyway, it was being APITA ... but the hoop and the trunk bars are in and solid, I'll work on the kicker bars tomorrow.

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/673/8HjW4C.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/661/WOHTav.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/661/J1FS0U.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/907/s8El91.jpg

Oh yeah, I took a trip down to Columbus, NM to pick up a '71 Datsun p/u with my nephew ... Columbus is 3 miles from Mexico and back to Denver in two days. Let's just say it was an adventure with the truck ending up on a U-Haul dolly and three days later.

Think I'll stay home for a few days after that .... the Camaro got some loving on Valentines Day!

Thanks for looking ....

waynieZ

02-15-2015, 08:57 AM

Moving along nice chief. Got to Love that insulated garage!

Steve68

02-15-2015, 09:40 AM

looking good chief, modifying the floor for ride height seems to be common with the 4 bar set ups, I'm probably going to do the same on mine, and I have a Alston set up I think, been a couple months since I've seen the boxes,

KPC67

02-15-2015, 11:46 AM

Nice progress Michael,
What are your plans with the outer wheel housings? looks like you've got something up your sleeve!:welder:

Sonar Chief

02-15-2015, 12:46 PM

Moving along nice chief. Got to Love that insulated garage!

:thankyou: I should have done the ceiling earlier .... I was gonna push the car outside and use my leaf blower and clean up the garage but, IT"S SNOWING NOW!!! Guess the insulation is working, lol.

looking good chief, modifying the floor for ride height seems to be common with the 4 bar set ups, I'm probably going to do the same on mine, and I have a Alston set up I think, been a couple months since I've seen the boxes,

Steve, I figure I'd wait til I can cycle the rear thru its range before I make a box, looking at the air bar upper link ....it may bind on the AirRide cradle mounting bracket first. I would like to have 4 inches of travel in the rear, I'll see what that takes to get er done.

Nice progress Michael,
What are your plans with the outer wheel housings? looks like you've got something up your sleeve!:welder:

:thankyou: I am going to fab up outers that will attach to the outer and go straight to the quarter but not attach to .... not going back w original fender lip stuff!

Sonar Chief

02-21-2015, 04:31 PM

just when you get used to the warm weather ..... it snows again!!!

Been working on the outerwheel house fab and then ran outa propane for the heater, grrrr .... thought about going out in the blizzard to get a refill and thought it's not worth ending up in the ditch.

So, I'll see what tomorrow brings, not much of an update thou!

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/661/lpjaWn.jpg

Errnie-ZL1

02-21-2015, 04:52 PM

Welcome to lateral g you will find doing the work yourself that in the end the car means more to you... Your doing a great job

Roberts68

02-26-2015, 08:30 AM

Welcome to lateral g...

:rolleyes: :knock: :whistling:

Yes, er... welcome to July 2012 Chief. :D

Sonar Chief

02-26-2015, 05:49 PM

Welcome to lateral g you will find doing the work yourself that in the end the car means more to you... Your doing a great job

Thanks!

:rolleyes: :knock: :whistling:

Yes, er... welcome to July 2012 Chief. :D

I was asking myself the same question? Huh?

I would have some updates if it wasn't so dang cold ... maybe got up to 21 degrees and still snowing.... spring is a long way off :popcorn2:

Sonar Chief

02-28-2015, 07:52 PM

freezing so I had to get out to the garage! Ok, barely above freezing but still .... had to get something done on the Camaro. Blasted winter and the snow!!!

Anyway, working on my outerwheel houses, roughed in and pretty close ... just need to trim and weld em together. The mod will give me 3 1/2 inches above the outer wheel lip .... which may be more than I have travel but just in case she's good!

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/540/xd2VJ3.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/540/xSiTtE.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/540/gH6hHF.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/912/3lL6zg.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/633/ri8Y2g.jpg

This mod is more work than I thought :EmoteClueless: to get it dead nuts .... first one is always the hardest, other side should take less time!

Think I'll trim the lip 1/2 inch to get around 14 3/4 inches at 12 o'clock on the opening .... should be plenty for 315's or 335's.

Thanks for looking .....

Sonar Chief

04-24-2015, 08:12 PM

to me!! Had to try it out today, so I added to my sculpture. :ups: Delivered my Millermatic 141 today, just so happens that Travis (snappytravis) was down from WY looking at the Camaro, (Good meeting you Travis!) the UPS truck showed up minutes before Travis.

Anyway .... easy to setup, I used the Auto Set to weld some 3/16, 16 ga, and just for grins I tried some 1/4 .... not enough amps for 1/4", rated at 3/16" max. I will get my wheel house welded in here shortly ...

Here's some porn ...

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/540/d55dW8.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/673/2cHSHs.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/909/HWCFrD.jpg
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/538/FhpAm8.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/901/zS7QOA.jpg
This clamp isn't gonna cut it ... I'll replace it w a beefier one!
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/910/5BZvKj.jpg
Easy setup, really like the drive roller push and rotate to change! Now I have to get a larger cart ... doesn't fit this one too good!!!
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/903/svYcbJ.jpg
1/4" for grins!
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/912/oWF88I.jpg
Welded both sides to get penetration .... marginal at 1/4"

Been busy with my school work, man its kicking my ace, only 3 weeks left to this session :relax: and then I can work on the Camaro full time!!!

Thanks for looking ....

SlowProgress

04-24-2015, 09:09 PM

Very nice but didn't you just weld your DSE subframe brackets together in the last 2 photos ?

Sonar Chief

04-24-2015, 09:18 PM

Very nice but didn't you just weld your DSE subframe brackets together in the last 2 photos ?

Yeah .... remember I made my own!

https://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/497x373q90/673/OSWvD4.jpg

snappytravis

04-24-2015, 09:19 PM

grendel

04-25-2015, 04:09 AM

So very nice!

GregWeld

04-25-2015, 06:13 AM

If you need to do 1/4" you'll just have to remember to bevel the pieces first.

Sonar Chief

04-25-2015, 07:15 AM

Sweet welder, yes project is looking good, lots of bench racing going on today.. Keep that welder running and burning wire.. Production..:welder:

Travis, thanks for stopping by and bs'ing!

So very nice!

Thanks, been nearly 20 years since I bought a new welder, gonna be nice!

If you need to do 1/4" you'll just have to remember to bevel the pieces first.

Yeah I was thinking the same thing. Just figured I'd burn some wire since its sitting on the bench .... New welders are like new girlfriends, gotta see what they can and can't do!! :relax:

waynieZ

04-25-2015, 06:31 PM

Nice! It should make the work easier for you.

SlowProgress

04-25-2015, 08:35 PM

Very nice but didn't you just weld your DSE subframe brackets together in the last 2 photos ?

Yeah .... remember I made my own!

https://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/497x373q90/673/OSWvD4.jpg

Yes, sorry, I knew those were left-over, but I forgot to post the "sarcasm" icon.

Funny how excited we can get over a welder. I really enjoy having my new Miller unit ! Really looking forward to some updates as the school pressure disappears !

streetbird

04-26-2015, 04:49 PM

You're right, we are close in our built, what rear suspension you will use?

Sonar Chief

04-26-2015, 04:51 PM

You're right, we are close in our built, what rear suspension you will use?

I have a Ride Tech 4 bar and a 12 bolt under the rear .... haven't figured out shock specs yet, but that's next!

Michael

streetbird

04-26-2015, 04:54 PM

So financialy, you are in advance hehe. I dont have my suspension for the moment.

Sonar Chief

04-26-2015, 05:52 PM

So financialy, you are in advance hehe. I dont have my suspension for the moment.

Yeah maybe .... still need to buy shocks and then wheels and tires, those are big ticket items, but for now I will get the body all done and the interior completed. The engine is good to go, need to wire the car and fab the exhaust, and ...... list continues!

Sonar Chief

05-01-2015, 08:54 PM

I could not keep this a secret, so I will post these teaser pixs and see what the response is, here it is.........

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/673/292KlK.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/673/9vtyAN.jpg

Thanks for looking...

Roberts68

05-02-2015, 04:15 AM

streetbird

05-02-2015, 04:31 AM

Seats ???

RdHuggr68

05-02-2015, 05:21 AM

It's still a secret Michael, what is it?? :EmoteClueless:

Sonar Chief

05-02-2015, 07:58 AM

I am confused, is that red brushed anodized aluminum bonded to the carbon fiber? I can't think of what you might have which uses both.

Or, did you only intend to show the carbon? Then, ideas start to form.

It's the color choices for my Camaro. Brushed red aluminum w black CF accents!

Seats ???

I've been looking at vinyl wrap color combinations for a long time and finally came up w this combo ... just ordered a foot of each to see how the look together, I think its a GO :thumbsup:

It's still a secret Michael, what is it?? :EmoteClueless:

Kevin ... its the wrap I told you about, just received my samples so I had to put them side by each. Don't you have some undercoating to scrape off :poke:

It was late when I got back from Denver so I'll get some pics out in the sun today ....

Michael

streetbird

05-02-2015, 08:17 AM

Roof, top and trunk carbon and the car brushed?
It will be original, im not a wrap fan but im pretty sure it will be nice

Sonar Chief

05-02-2015, 10:36 AM

Roof, top and trunk carbon and the car brushed?
It will be original, im not a wrap fan but im pretty sure it will be nice

I'm copying CHD on that 68 Camaro, I asked if I could borrow his hood design for my Camaro and he said I could .... so, brushed red Al and CF black design on front valance through to the windshield.

Messed w a small section on the trunk this am .... not knowing what I'm doing, it came out pretty bad, but the colors are outrageous together. Think I'll let the Pro Shop here in town complete it so it doesn't look like azz!!!

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/913/gEoMWp.jpg
Looks cool in the sun ...
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/673/9VjcRJ.jpg
I edited all the wrinkles out ....lol!

Its gonna be tough to keep the CF in straight lines and not scratch the brush red ... I don't think I can!!

RdHuggr68

05-02-2015, 06:01 PM

Michael, that is going to look awesome together, good choice. No, I am done scraping that crap off so I nnow can use air tools! :hitaxeonthehead:

waynieZ

05-02-2015, 10:22 PM

It looks nice! I like it.

Sonar Chief

05-12-2015, 12:54 PM

It looks nice! I like it.

Thanks Wayne .... jury is still out whether to outsource this part of the build, kinda want to do it myself!

:ups: Christmas in May, gotta love the smell of fresh rubber in the morning! Had to fit them under the car just cuz.... Also received my SPI order today, now just got to get busy!!!

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/538/P7Qj59.jpg
Got tired of waiting on Falkens!
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/661/M2LPjf.jpg
Plenty of room ... I'm next to rent the Wheel Rite tool and then its RIMS!
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/537/kUtYiy.jpg
I think they'll fit just fine!!!
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/537/axCg46.jpg
Nothing like steam rollers ....:guns:
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/661/KswkAZ.jpg
Back into the spare room for now!!!

This is the last week of classes, the sun is shinning agian .... then its go time on the Camaro. I want to thank Chris Holstrom and Ron Sutton for taking care of me, they truly care for the sport and the customers!!

Got more stuff coming too :innocent:

Thanks for looking....

DKz Garage

05-12-2015, 03:11 PM

Coming along nicely! Like the color idea/choice.....should look real cool. How is the clearance looking on the g-bar for exhaust?

paulk68

05-12-2015, 03:39 PM

such a good feeling getting new parts!!!! looks great keep it up!!

Sonar Chief

05-12-2015, 08:57 PM

Coming along nicely! Like the color idea/choice.....should look real cool. How is the clearance looking on the g-bar for exhaust?

:thankyou: That I don't know ... if I go with a full length (Magnaflow 2 1/2) I might have to notch the trunk pan, or I could go under the axle and call it good!!

such a good feeling getting new parts!!!! looks great keep it up!!

Ain't it ... I now have to put in the time to get all this stuff on the car :ohsnap: :thankyou:

ragz

05-13-2015, 07:50 AM

Awesome progress and nice work, love build threads, heart and soul ,sweat and tears ,ups and downs and serious perserverance . Well Done.

grendel

05-13-2015, 12:33 PM

Looking great, Chief.

Sonar Chief

05-13-2015, 02:34 PM

Awesome progress and nice work, love build threads, heart and soul ,sweat and tears ,ups and downs and serious perserverance . Well Done.

:thumbsup: Thanks ... I'm learning what not to do as much as what works!!!

Looking great, Chief.

Thanks ... things will be begin to move right along here next week, school session is done!:relax:

Not much here, just had to get out in the garage and do something ... so I made Version I stands for the frame mods that I did, I think I may want it a little taller for Version II .... or use limiting straps on the suspension!!!

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/538/03npcr.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/673/r1zoPe.jpg

Oh well, it's something ... back to homework!!!

Sonar Chief

05-15-2015, 09:51 PM

however there is some inference .... that's hot rodding, need to move the engine and tranny back an inch to clear the aft lower control arm brace, already ordered a set of misfit adjustable mounts from Dirty-Dingo and that should be taken care of! The adjustable mounts will raise the engine 7/16" and that will help some!

Not too happy about the ground clearance thou ... hangin' a little low, about the depth of the tubes 1.63". Don't want to cut them up right now, not qualified to :headspin:

Really nice headers from AME, 3/8 flanges and ball and socket to 2 1/2 inch, even sent gaskets and ss bolts ... I'm gonna use my Stage 8 locking ones thou. After fit and all I'll send them off to be coated .... black!

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/661/QY4vaZ.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/540/DHGRP7.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/540/Ynz3jK.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/909/utMxa4.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/911/RWzuMA.jpg
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/661/4iSNuL.jpg

Should be able to order the driveshaft and route the steering shaft down to the rack after all this ... :popcorn2:

Thanks to Chris Holstrom for helping me, appreciate the expertise!

Thanks for looking ...

Build-It-Break-it

05-16-2015, 01:21 AM

It looks like your going to have steering rod issues to. I had the same problems with the frame. What motor mounts are you running now?

Sonar Chief

05-17-2015, 05:57 PM

It looks like your going to have steering rod issues to. I had the same problems with the frame. What motor mounts are you running now?

With Sweets DD and shaft there will be no issues, looks different in the pics. I bought Poly Urethane engine mounts for SBC ... not know the part #.

had to get something done while I'm waiting on parts, so I figured I'd get the roof corner fixed up to match the molding ... AMD part was CRAP!!!!

Anyhow ... here's the result, time to get the other side done!

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/538/ErWbA8.jpg
That's mo' better!!!
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/633/SzKesU.jpg
Little more dolly work and some metal filler should be good to go!

I'll work on the other side tomorrow!

Thanks for looking ....

waynieZ

05-17-2015, 07:28 PM

Some of the most time consuming work, but some of the most noticeable.
It looks great.

RdHuggr68

05-17-2015, 07:30 PM

Looking good Michael. :animated_bye_bye_em

tubbed69

05-18-2015, 07:23 AM

Michael you have one of the most detailed and best build threads I have ever seen,keep up the good work:thumbsup: :thumbsup:

Sonar Chief

05-18-2015, 08:12 AM

Some of the most time consuming work, but some of the most noticeable.
It looks great.

:thankyou: Wayne, when something ain't right ya gotta fix it!!

Looking good Michael. :animated_bye_bye_em

Kevin ... thanks! Dirty Dingo to my rescue too!

Michael you have one of the most detailed and best build threads I have ever seen,keep up the good work:thumbsup: :thumbsup:

:thankyou: I do appreciate the comments, just trying to do this once and have it come close to the pics in my mind .....NO MULLIGANS!!! :hairpullout:

Sonar Chief

05-20-2015, 05:15 PM

installing the Dirty Dingo MisFit mounts ... then I realized they sent metric bolts for the engine block plate, ALL STOP!!! :ohsnap: Bummer, they are sending the correct ones tomorrow thou, so there sits the car and engine!

I did get most of the passenger side roof corner mocked up, real close to welding!

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/673/NlbL03.jpg
Suspended there until I get the correct bolts!
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/673/gk1180.jpg
Definitely a nice setup .... should be what the doctor ordered for clearance!
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/673/0aQfb7.jpg
AME headers waiting to go back in .... nice pieces fer sure!
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/673/NxMm3A.jpg
Gotta fill this hole ... the roof will have to wait!

Til next time, thanks for looking .... think I'll go put the old mounts in just in case the hoist loses pressure!

Sonar Chief

05-22-2015, 08:24 PM

waiting for SAE bolts from Dirty Dingo ...
went to Fastenal and picked some up and got the engine back in the frame! All is well, except .... I can't use the block mounted fuel pump, I'll have to rig up an electric :rolleyes: and the drivers side bracket nut is touching #3 tube .... that's hot rodding thou!

Anyhow ... plenty of clearance for the headers, I'll probably have to move it a touch forward so the distributor will clear the firewall. I did put some heat on the drivers side header to see if I could raise the collector some w/o cutting the headers apart and rewelding ... got some clearance, it's cooling now, I'll see where it rests after it cools.

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/537/qtuxSm.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/538/dbU4bC.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/540/NghqNn.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/661/QKytTC.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/910/VPxGwY.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/661/rd1pYw.jpg

Thanks for looking ...

Sonar Chief

05-26-2015, 06:19 PM

my chiropractor is gonna love me .... heading out to the gym and FedEX pulls up, what am I supposed to do?

Anyhow, Ron Sutton valved RT SA are here, there is a problem thou .... the lower mount on the rear is 5/8 shaft and there are no male alignment bushing to fit the shaft. Am I retarded? I got plenty of 1/2 alignment bushings thou ... and even w the 5/8 female on both sides the shoulder is still taller and the shock rattles when the bolt and washer are tightened ... got it?

Look at the pics and see if I'm backwards and comment PLEASE ...

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/908/sAinPK.jpg
Shocks are here!
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/537/lcxBTB.jpg
I get it .... male and female fit together!
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/661/yI00KX.jpg
That's TWO 5/8 females on either side ....there still is shoulder there!
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/537/VtICL6.jpg
Top is good to go w 1/2" bolt thou ...
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/661/QZEf4O.jpg
6 bags if the same parts!
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/633/C5Wn5s.jpg
I'd have to use 5/8 washers to take up the space .... not good!
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/661/ApzB92.jpg
There are no 5/8 males for the female.

Ok I know I'm not the only one using RT ... please help! RT is gonna call me back tomorrow when they open! Am I missing something?

Oh, I sent the Dirty Dingo Misfit mounts back ... now I have to cut up some headers!:wacko:

Thanks for looking and helping!

Vince@Meanstreets

05-26-2015, 11:22 PM

GregWeld

05-27-2015, 06:22 AM

I've seen guys not only install them upside-down --- I've seen it where they place the adjuster in what would be "toward the outside"... so that the adjuster is absolutely impossible to get to. LOL

Sonar Chief

05-27-2015, 08:08 AM

The sleeves do not fit together. its 1/2 (what you can male) to 1/2 male top and 5/8 to 5/8 bottom. **
You have the right parts....The 1/2" ones go on top and the 5/8" go on the bottom. One 5/8" washer on eash side. So stud, washer, 5/8 spacer, shock, 5/8 spacer, washer then nut. Also real racers position the adjuster at the bottom. :)

Vince .... I'm not a smart man, my picture 2 is what is installed on the top to take the bearing from 5/8 to 1/2 .... duhhhh, check image below!

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/540/sDf7WH.jpg

The lower mount just change up the order? Install washer on the outside of the sandwich? I didn't know that's where they went, I just grabbed two washers.

Adjusters on the INSIDE bottom (Weld's comment) got it!

Now there is interference w the shock and the mount .... what's next? Longer shock stud to push the spring out away from the mount?
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/673/dg8hw3.jpg

Thanks ...

Michael

Vince@Meanstreets

05-28-2015, 01:01 AM

Now there is interference w the shock and the mount .... what's next? Longer shock stud to push the spring out away from the mount?
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/673/dg8hw3.jpg

Thanks ...

Michael

Check your piuion angle. The lower mount should be at 90 degrees with the pinion 2 degrees down.

Your a smart guy....you just took this literally didn't you. :gitrdun: :peepwall:

LanceL

06-04-2015, 05:58 PM

Chief, do you have any pics of how the dash and cowl come together? On a nova they are welded, does the camaro do the same?

Sonar Chief

06-04-2015, 08:53 PM

Check your piuion angle. The lower mount should be at 90 degrees with the pinion 2 degrees down.

Your a smart guy....you just took this literally didn't you. :gitrdun: :peepwall:

Vince ... I called RT and Josh sent me out the correct spacers for the lower shock mounts. I did read the directions, they were not that specific ... they were actually outdated considerably, offered to send new pics to update their instructions.

Chief, do you have any pics of how the dash and cowl come together? On a nova they are welded, does the camaro do the same?

Lance ... the dash and the cowl panel are welded on the top. My front and rear AMD glass just came into town, figured I'd mock it up first before I welded them together. Same thing for the rear glass, trial fit before the quarters go on .... OCD!

WOW ... had a flash back looking for these pics, glad it doesn't look like that now!

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/633/XZqfUz.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/673/1u16UY.jpg

paulk68

06-05-2015, 07:19 AM

How does the AMD glass look and fit are you happy with it?

LanceL

06-05-2015, 01:49 PM

Thanks for those two pics. That was the before correct? Do you have any pics that show what it looks like after? Do I make holes and "spot" weld it or tack it in all the way across and then grind down? I'm sorry for the ignorance on this one? I'm just not sure how to move forward because my dash was already pulled apart and I cant tell how it was together?

Sonar Chief

06-05-2015, 04:20 PM

How does the AMD glass look and fit are you happy with it?

I haven't picked up the glass yet ... the AMD rep used their glass on his Duster, said it fit well!

Thanks for those two pics. That was the before correct? Do you have any pics that show what it looks like after? Do I make holes and "spot" weld it or tack it in all the way across and then grind down? I'm sorry for the ignorance on this one? I'm just not sure how to move forward because my dash was already pulled apart and I cant tell how it was together?

No problem ... in the first pic you can see where the 2" band of rust goes across the cowl, that is where the upper dash came to and I just drilled out the spot welds to remove that strip. I will use my hole punch to prep the upper dash for spot welding.

I need to fit the front glass to make sure the angle at the bottom is in-line with the A pillars when the glass is set inside the opening ... I may have to sharpen the or change the angle to match the A pillar.

Michael

LanceL

06-06-2015, 06:07 AM

I got ya now. So it is spot welded between the two. Thanks a lot!!!

Sonar Chief

06-07-2015, 07:34 PM

with the front shock setup! Lat G members I need some help figuring out spring clearance on the front, I thought I had it figured out and fabbed up some adapter plates to move the shock mounting point AFT 5/8".

Few days ago I started on the front shocks and found the spring hit the UCA ... hmmmm, I checked the static camber on the driver's side, added some washers to get -0.7, good now. Found out that if I moved the shock mount aft 5/8" the spring would clear UCA during travel. So I fabbed up a 1/4" plate and welded the RT mount on it!

Kool ... checked the passenger side camber, it was different, didn't need any additional washers to push the UCA out (see where this is going?) to get static camber at -0.7. NOW both sides have different thickness spacers .... should I be worried? Started making the same mount for the passenger side ... checking it the spring doesn't clear the UCA at all.

Part of this is due to the thickness of my adapter plate and the RT mount which pushes the mounting point out away from the frame ...

???? Should I account for the camber? Am I on the wrong track here?

I know what I need to do but don't know the best way .... I need to hack off the original mount and move it AFT 5/8" and possibly inward a little to give more angle of the dangle and clearance for the spring.

Any suggestions? Take a look at the pics I took and chime in with positive ideas to fix this.

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/540/VIZ9xd.jpg
Passenger side static camber with less washers than the drivers side!
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/673/VTOKtF.jpg
Passenger side washers .... spring hits UCA.
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/537/1j7qYd.jpg
Clearance on the DRIVERS side ... 3/16"?
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/540/qeiVcc.jpg
Drivers side camber washers and clearance!
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/661/WklSUf.jpg
This is the RT mount I welded onto the plate to move the CL over 5/8"
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/538/yEfvC3.jpgOh yeah ... got my compressor in and bolted to the floor ... back in business!!

I know there is a lot going on here, hopefully the pics help visualize things here. I didn't want to hack off the frame mount just to move the shock aft 5/8" .... but I am outa options.

Any suggestions would be appreciated ...

Thanks for looking and helping me out ....

Build-It-Break-it

06-07-2015, 10:55 PM

I think you should try and bolt everything up to the subframe and check everything else before you dig any deeper. Check frame rails for square and level ,steering linkage clearance, radiator support location and mounting, etc etc.

I think pushing that upper shock mount inward would cause more problems. Your basically going to have to rebuild/reconfigure the control arm mount/shock mount to be safe and still retain correct geometry.

garret805

06-09-2015, 01:36 PM

Clean build, should be a beast.

Build-It-Break-it

06-16-2015, 05:58 PM

Did you ever fix the subframe control arm/shock mount issue?

Sonar Chief

06-16-2015, 09:06 PM

mounting point, no more clearance issues!!! Been busy with classes lately ... had a mount design cut out and then I didn't like it. So I said to myself ... self, why don't you just move the original shock mount back the distance you need and be done with it?

So, that is what I did today ... played hookie from school work and worked in the garage until it was done, I just finished!

Cut off the mount, plated the hole leftover, squared up everything, checked, and double checked .... add welder!

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/661/FZZaQs.jpg
Mount all welded in secure!
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/538/wJeqeJ.jpg
Idea of how much I moved it over .... I'll weld inside when I pull the engine next!
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/540/dycs8I.jpg
Driver's side looks good ...
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/905/IW93Ij.jpg
Passenger side didn't take as long ... go figure!
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/538/iexIk1.jpg
Sitting on all fours .... heck yeah!

Just had to get this done, it was bugging me soooo bad!

Thanks for looking .... I have some class work to do now :waveflag:

Build-It-Break-it

06-17-2015, 01:29 AM

I think you might want to consider cutting off the complete square tubing that supports that coil over and make another.

The way you have it takes the strength out of that shock mount and puts the load just on the 3/16th upper a arm mount. I think once the coil over starts to compress up and down its going to act like if you bent a coat hanger back and forth and shear that upper mount off.

That's a lot of weight and load to trust it the way you have it now.

Ron in SoCal

06-17-2015, 07:43 AM

Sonar Chief

06-17-2015, 12:39 PM

Ahmed,

I have wondered how much load the upper shock mount is subjected to. There have been a number of adjustable upper mount designs over the years and I've not seen one break; doesn't mean it didn't happen and if it did happen at speed ... it could be catastrophic! :wow:

Anyone know mow much force is exerted on the upper mount? And how to measure or ensure it is reliable?

That's a good question Ron ... I was thinking of using a 1/4" plate on the engine side of the mount to re-enforce the mount, say 6" and the full width now. Just need to fix the header clearance now and then I can pull the engine ... again!

Any other ideas?

Josh@Ridetech

06-17-2015, 02:26 PM

Very nice build! :D

bdahlg68

06-17-2015, 04:35 PM

Ahmed,

I have wondered how much load the upper shock mount is subjected to. There have been a number of adjustable upper mount designs over the years and I've not seen one break; doesn't mean it didn't happen and if it did happen at speed ... it could be catastrophic! :wow:

Anyone know mow much force is exerted on the upper mount? And how to measure or ensure it is reliable?
OEM rules typically apply a multiple of front GAWR for suspension design. IIRC lower ball joint axial loads can hit around 30kN+. Given the lever arm I would say 40kN at the shock/spring. So probably around 9000lbs. This would be a severe event though but not sure what happens if you run out of shock travel.

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

Sonar Chief

06-17-2015, 07:04 PM

Very nice build! :D

Thanks Josh ... thanks for all your help over the phone! I'll have to call and get another set of those coil over mounts (my first idea didn't work so good and I already clearanced them for the bolts). Can't wait to put these shocks to work!

This is what I had in mind ... rude drawing and not to scale!

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/537/Bdq4yU.jpg

Any other ideas?

bdahlg68

06-17-2015, 07:22 PM

Thanks Josh ... thanks for all your help over the phone! I'll have to call and get another set of those coil over mounts (my first idea didn't work so good and I already clearanced them for the bolts). Can't wait to put these shocks to work!

This is what I had in mind ... rude drawing and not to scale!

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/537/Bdq4yU.jpg

Any other ideas?

It's a cubic function for stiffness benefit in the cross car plane vs what you've sketched. Is their room just inboard of the frame rails? If not, you are probably fine as is.

Sonar Chief

06-17-2015, 08:23 PM

It's a cubic function for stiffness benefit in the cross car plane vs what you've sketched. Is their room just inboard of the frame rails? If not, you are probably fine as is.

Huh?? You lost me there ... there is only a few inches inboard then the headers come into play.

Something like this? Like a roll cage brace, gusset? Cross plane, using 1/4" plate ... work too?
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/661/8aCtcB.jpg

Thanks ....

Vince@Meanstreets

06-17-2015, 09:58 PM

due to the load direction I'd go this route, if you have the room.

Only time I have seen a mount fail was a shock failure and shock was too short.

Build-It-Break-it

06-17-2015, 10:52 PM

All of options seem like they would work but would just be putting a bandaid on it. It would be a lot more work to cut the entire square tube back out and fix it the right way but it would be cleaner and you wouldn't have to think about it or question the repair later.

grendel

06-18-2015, 09:24 AM

due to the load direction I'd go this route, if you have the room.

Only time I have seen a mount fail was a shock failure and shock was too short.

I'm with Vince. It's probably what I am going to do to mine.

Sonar Chief

06-18-2015, 01:08 PM

I'm with Vince. It's probably what I am going to do to mine.

JJ ... I like Vince's idea as well, HOWEVER, as my first mount added 3/16" towards the outside and increase the angle of the dangle of the shock it also reduces the clearance to the spring. That's why I decided to take it off the get the shock bolt closer to the mount (decrease the angle) ... I wished the RT mount had a 1" offset bolt hole instead of 1 1/2".

I have another idea to brace the mount from the engine side ...

Vince@Meanstreets

06-23-2015, 10:38 AM

JJ ... I like Vince's idea as well, HOWEVER, as my first mount added 3/16" towards the outside and increase the angle of the dangle of the shock it also reduces the clearance to the spring. That's why I decided to take it off the get the shock bolt closer to the mount (decrease the angle) ... I wished the RT mount had a 1" offset bolt hole instead of 1 1/2".

I have another idea to brace the mount from the engine side ...

Honestly if it were my car I'd cut the whole section out and go the DSE style mount. Superior to the existing.

Sonar Chief

06-26-2015, 10:40 PM

for the shock brace is ... 1" x 1/8" square stock cut to match the inside of the shock tower (?) I rough cut this one out ... need to refine it a little.

Also cut up the headers ... took 1 1/4" outa the vertical sections of the tubes and now the headers are above the frame rails! Need to cut the tubes at the collector to 'clock' each individual tube to match the upper tubes and then sleeve the 4 tubes and install the collector .... never done this before so I guess its going ok!

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/908/KnbviU.jpg
Side view of brace ... needs to be a little taller!
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/538/zujGzt.jpg
Clears the headers too!
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/540/WGdI4d.jpg
Square stock rough cut 1/8" thick .... should do just fine!
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/538/oAh06T.jpg
Cutting headers to gain clearance, yahoo!

That's what I came up with from adding structural integrity to the mount. Vince ... cutting all this out is not an option, I don't have the know how to weld something completely new in its place.

Thanks for looking ....

Build-It-Break-it

06-26-2015, 11:11 PM

Sonar Chief

06-26-2015, 11:32 PM

I'm still curious about what your going to do for the steering linkage going to the rack and pinion. It looks like it's going to run into the upper control arm mount.

It looks like your solution will work for the upper mount. Looking good!

Are you using a kit to fab up your headers or cutting up existing headers you already have?

The original steering column is in the car for mock up only ... the actual one will be quite shorter, actually terminating w the splines just on the engine side of the firewall. That way the shorter the column the more room I have for a D-D joint and it reduces the angle going to the rack.

I just ordered some 1 5/8" header build kit and will cut and weld those into the existing tubes, I'll need some clearance on #7 for the steering linkage anyway ... couldn't find 14 ga tubing thou, seems everyone uses 16 ga except AME :waveflag:

Thanks ....

GregWeld

06-27-2015, 06:29 AM

The original steering column is in the car for mock up only ... the actual one will be quite shorter, actually terminating w the splines just on the engine side of the firewall. That way the shorter the column the more room I have for a D-D joint and it reduces the angle going to the rack.

I just ordered some 1 5/8" header build kit and will cut and weld those into the existing tubes, I'll need some clearance on #7 for the steering linkage anyway ... couldn't find 14 ga tubing thou, seems everyone uses 16 ga except AME :waveflag:

Thanks ....

Their headers are actually built for them by STANS HEADERS... Stan is an old grump of a man - but a good guy if he likes you. They build a nice set of headers.

http://www.stans-headers.com

A quick little story about that. I was cutting up a tube or two on a set to gain some clearance in a set of headers on my Nomad. It had aftermarket steering column and a Jim Meyer Racing chassis. So after I got them where I wanted them, I carried the driver side down to Stan's shop. He grouses at me for a minute about me cutting sh!t up.... and then says "what's your problem?"... and disappears... he comes back holding a "mock up" set that's all tacked together. Looked like Frankenstein headers. Shoves 'em at me and tells me to go home and try 'em (I've been doing business with Stan for 20 years). They're the mock up set for Art's Corvette with his new Corvette chassis. They fit perfectly for my application. So Stan built me a set. My point is -- the man looked at a pile of spaghetti - and goes and picks out a set that did exactly what I needed them to do.

Sonar Chief

06-27-2015, 11:30 AM

Their headers are actually built for them by STANS HEADERS... Stan is an old grump of a man - but a good guy if he likes you. They build a nice set of headers.

http://www.stans-headers.com

A quick little story about that. I was cutting up a tube or two on a set to gain some clearance in a set of headers on my Nomad. It had aftermarket steering column and a Jim Meyer Racing chassis. So after I got them where I wanted them, I carried the driver side down to Stan's shop. He grouses at me for a minute about me cutting sh!t up.... and then says "what's your problem?"... and disappears... he comes back holding a "mock up" set that's all tacked together. Looked like Frankenstein headers. Shoves 'em at me and tells me to go home and try 'em (I've been doing business with Stan for 20 years). They're the mock up set for Art's Corvette with his new Corvette chassis. They fit perfectly for my application. So Stan built me a set. My point is -- the man looked at a pile of spaghetti - and goes and picks out a set that did exactly what I needed them to do.

Greg ... that's good story! I actually talked with Stan over the phone concerning his headers, I really wanted Tri-Y headers and knew he made these for AME ...anyway, he couldn't guarantee they would fit my application. He lists the TRI FIVE headers for the AME but not the Camaro, he said he didn't have a template to work off of.

I guess he didn't like me :lol:

Sonar Chief

07-11-2015, 03:05 PM

Been busy with school .... but took today to fit some tires!! I rented the wheel fit tool and got busy measuring for rims ... had to dismantle the passenger side to articulate the suspension and that took longer than the actual fitment.

Anyway ... here is some porn of a 67 Camaro with 315's on corners, gonna flare the front fender a little, maybe an 1 1/4" ... no problem w the rear.

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/538/OtvVBX.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/537/KbVvu2.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/661/cLOKvZ.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/538/XjrcF0.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/538/KBPKx5.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/633/ZfHBPq.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/901/nIFb3H.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/673/tbuRVn.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/538/joyRGC.jpg

Oh yeah, I finished cutting out the braces for the shock mount final version. Not much else really ... school is taking up most of the time lately. Supposed to go pick up my AMD hood, radiator support, front and back glass real soon ... that's the last of them!

Thanks for looking ...

grendel

07-11-2015, 08:27 PM

Looking good man!

Sonar Chief

07-18-2015, 03:21 PM

Looking good man!

Thanks ... I am stoked about getting 315's under the front.

Well, hopefully I've compensated my AMD dealer for the last time, picked up my SS hood, radiator support and glass for the front and back.

I went to the Dodge dealer's car show today and saw some nice Mopars, Chargers and Cudas everywhere, one Super Bird, a couple AMX Javelins, Dart Swinger, a Sport Fury w Max Wedge long runner intake 426, and one Rebel? LOL.

Anyhow, the GTX and the Charger are my AMD dealer's (past projects), he's working on a Scamp that is really coming out great! Really nice cars I though I'd share some pixs.

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/538/Jm01hd.jpg
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/661/K4F2Uo.jpg
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/912/ZQVFhN.jpg
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/537/mFI36J.jpg
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/673/CgTUqJ.jpg
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/673/LY8RCK.jpg
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/540/6IcLW3.jpg
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/913/yNL5CH.jpg
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/537/cVfPRE.jpg

Parts are staged for the last trash of the summer .... school is over on Aug 11th and I'll be busting butt to get most of the parts on and in epoxy while the weather is nice. That's the plan anyway ....:ohsnap:

Thanks for looking...

Sonar Chief

07-29-2015, 03:13 PM

on and adjusted so-so! Overall it looks to be a good stamping. Seems to fit ok, and the hood follows the lines of the fenders down ....whew.

The AMD radiator support looks overall ok, there is a nutsert for the latch support that is installed crooked. Probably cut out the OEM piece and replace the nutsert ... that seems to be the case w AMD!

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/540/OirlIn.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/537/8i9z13.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/673/FvU6zZ.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/673/ZUIbS1.jpg

That's all for now, have two more weeks til this semester is over and then it's ALL Camaro ... fix the headers, finish the roof, disc off all the EDP, weld up all those dang holes and shoot some epoxy on the hood, radiator support and roof.

Maybe even get some lizard skin sprayed on the roof and quarter panels and SPI primer on the roll cage and interior panels and get the roof installed .... that's a lot!

I have so much work left before the cold sets in that I need 32hr in a day or :G-Dub: I'll just keep plugging away at one thing at a time .....

Thanks for looking ... may see some people at OPTIMA Pike's Peak?

clill

07-29-2015, 04:23 PM

Nice seeing a SS hood for a change.

GregWeld

07-29-2015, 08:52 PM

Nice seeing a SS hood for a change.

In the North - we called them Ice Cube Trays

Roberts68

07-30-2015, 07:02 AM

I only see pic #1 in post 975? Then the rest show an imageshack placeholder.

I like the use of an SS hood also Chief.:thumbsup:

Sonar Chief

07-30-2015, 10:10 AM

Nice seeing a SS hood for a change.

Yea that's what I thought too! Thanks

In the North - we called them Ice Cube Trays

I've also heard that before ... no water will sit in these and freeze!

I only see pic #1 in post 975? Then the rest show an imageshack placeholder.

I like the use of an SS hood also Chief.:thumbsup:

I don't know what to say, I can see all of them, I'd change something but I'm not that smart! Hey thanks!

Beach Cruiser

08-03-2015, 06:58 AM

coming along nicely! I also run 315's up front, I didn't have to flare the fenders, the neg camber I run tucks them in nicely. I think I'm at -2.8

WSSix

08-04-2015, 06:25 PM

Nice seeing a SS hood for a change.

x2. It's a good looking hood that doesn't get utilized as often as I think it should. The 65 BB vette hood is the same way to me. Good choice, Chief. Keep up the good work!

Sonar Chief

08-04-2015, 09:05 PM

coming along nicely! I also run 315's up front, I didn't have to flare the fenders, the neg camber I run tucks them in nicely. I think I'm at -2.8

That's good to know ... I think -2.8 is a little aggressive for the street thou!

x2. It's a good looking hood that doesn't get utilized as often as I think it should. The 65 BB vette hood is the same way to me. Good choice, Chief. Keep up the good work!

:thankyou: Just got done working on it today!

Homework done and a little Camaro time today, stripped the EDP and got two coats of etching primer ... had to wait til 2030 cuz the temps were too high, go figure ... it's August!

Anyway, hood and radiator support is done, I can take them off my to-do list!

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/661/r4sHRo.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/540/IfKbWW.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/538/xySch7.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/540/ybL49P.jpg

This SS hood is really growing on me, gonna order the 67 SS vents instead of the 69's ice cube style, that'll make the hood pop!!

Thanks for looking ... guess no one is coming out to Pike's Peak IR for OPTIMA series, gonna be bummed watching imports, ZO6 vettes and Gen 5 Camaros!

SlowProgress

08-04-2015, 10:02 PM

Spiffav8

08-05-2015, 05:14 PM

Knew if I checked this thread there would be progress. You never disappoint.

:thankyou:

Sonar Chief

08-07-2015, 11:41 PM

Car is coming along great! That's funny I have a 67 original hood and I always liked the 68 Ice Cube Tray inserts better than the finned 67 inserts. I guess the grass is always greener somewhere else. I am hoping to keep my SS hood as well.

I am sticking with the finned inserts ... something different!

knew if I checked this thread there would be progress. You never disappoint.

:thankyou:

You are welcome ... I am getting there :headscratch: MAYBE?

Brought home my newest part from a 03 Saturn Vue, need to make up a bracket and order the wiring adapter and figure out what I need to make it to the rack and pinion.

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/540/JFPM36.jpg

Heading out in the am to Pike's Peak IR to watch the OPTIMA race event, I'll share pics when I get back Sunday.

Thanks for looking ...

Beach Cruiser

08-08-2015, 05:42 AM

Just Curious why you picked that steering column? Electric assist? Have fun watching the Optima events, I just ran Charlotte two weeks ago and had a blast! Being around all those cars will either make you speed up your progress, or change directions on different parts of your build! Don't say I didn't tell you so!

I like the hood choice too with the 67 inserts.

Steve68

08-08-2015, 08:41 AM

C, nice hood had one, all 3 hoods are my favorite, traded my SS hood for my cowl hood, sold it, was really rusted, bought my current cowl hood GM, for a song, when I get back to working on my car I'm going to look for a flat one, maybe I'll just buy the flat in carbon fiber, that would be cool, nice work on the car,

Sonar Chief

08-08-2015, 08:18 PM

Here is some teaser pics from today .... they run the big track tomorrow!

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/538/bOkCuq.jpg
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/540/pqd41o.jpg
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/912/Czonqi.jpg
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/537/3Knb9U.jpg
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/673/Ik7E0G.jpg
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/673/2vzN8X.jpg
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/537/XzADHM.jpg

I got a lot more pics ... wish you were here! lol

streetbird

08-09-2015, 07:31 AM

Sonar Chief

08-10-2015, 09:01 AM

Very nice idea for the electric assist column.
Less stock under the hood, I will follow this for sure and probably copy you.
I prefer to repair clean wires over messy fluid, I hate playing with hydrolic and I want a easy removable engine and this is a must in my eyes.

Louis

:thankyou: I also like simple things, if EPS is good enough for GM to put in production cars .... it's good enough for me!

Just got back from OPTIMA PPIR man what an event!!! I was not disappointed ... OLOA Camaro, couple c'velles, Dusold team, Jake Rozelle and family, and the Showtime team. Mr. Efrain Diaz was gracious enough to let me ride in his 69 during the road rally .... thank you Efrain, that made my whole weekend! Tom and Aaron brought the Chevelles down to beat on, Mr. Farrington can drive, wow! The last two sessions were canceled due to lighting strikes too close to the track!!!

So lots of sun, the smell of 100 octane and burning rubber ... what's not to like? Got to sit in the OLOA Camaro and see most of the cars I only see in magazines up close and personal. I got to talk with car guys, very nice car guys and I took some pics .... nothing fancy, just memories for me!

Anyway, here's some pictures, I'll post the rest on my Imageshack album!

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/673/bhHu6X.jpg
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/905/nT4Mpb.jpg
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/661/VHC1oJ.jpg
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/540/gm3tbo.jpg
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/910/hm5bkU.jpg
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/905/je03SU.jpg
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/912/okoSvk.jpg
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/633/RRhiHj.jpg
:thankyou: to all the guys for talking to me, made some memories and some friends ... Thanks for the ride Efrain!

See you next year!

Sonar Chief

08-10-2015, 08:22 PM

My nephew and his girlfriend came down to PPIR on Sat and took some pics of me and Mr. Diaz during the road rally. Though I'd share the sh$t eating grin on my face! :) :)

Oh yeah, that's a good looking car too! :thumbsup:

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/540/mn8Cfn.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/538/wzZPYE.jpg

GregWeld

08-10-2015, 08:33 PM

Sonar Chief

08-10-2015, 08:43 PM

Glad you enjoyed it! Anyone that hasn't taken in one of these as a spectator -- or better yet - as a competitor doesn't know what they're missing. It's more than just the cars - it's all the folks you get to meet etc.

Greg you said it ... its the folks you met that make the memories! Talked with Jake about his car (he doesn't like the wrap cuz it's hard to clean), Tom Farrington and Aaron Oberle are fierce competitors but will shoot the breeze with you, Efrain Diaz let me ride shotgun during the road rally, and I got to talk with the folks at the OLOA Camaro garage and sat in THE CAR!

This weekend made my whole year, not like I was counting down the hours or anything. lol I won't miss another PPIR OPTIMA!

The results are posted, Jake took the win in GTV class, congrats to Mr Shipka getting the OUSCI invite, Tom and Aaron finished right behind the OLOA, and Efrain took a 3rd in the AutoX and the Design judging and tied w Aaron overall .... well done folks!

Michael

Beach Cruiser

08-11-2015, 05:02 AM

Ron in SoCal

08-11-2015, 07:00 AM

Yeah, Ef and the gang are ok...:D

Glad you had fun Chief!

:cheers:

Sonar Chief

08-19-2015, 02:52 PM

If it was anything like Charlotte I'm sure it was a blast! Hurry up and get your car done so you can play too! I wish I had the money to travel to more than one event a year with those guys, it was a great weekend for me.

It was a blast! I am working on the Camaro :headspin:

Yeah, Ef and the gang are ok...:D

Glad you had fun Chief!

:cheers:

Ron ... just riding in Efrain's car gets your blood pumping, now I just have to return the favor :whenitsdone:

Been searching the salvage yards for a column that was originally a floor shift car ... found a 68 Chevy convertible that donated it's column! Working on the logistics of the EPS and waiting for the controller box, found that the brake booster brace will have to be modified to fit the EPS under the dash and not interfere w brake actions.

Got the final location for the drivers header and tacked some angle to keep it's shape ... now time to work out the angles and dangles to make one header outa two pieces, wish me luck :superhack:

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/913/bDIm3r.jpg
It's doable!
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/661/XfJR7g.jpg
Couple angle changes and some heat!!!!
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/537/eglwUV.jpg
My donated column ... yeah!

Well that's all for now, should be cutting and modifying the headers tomorrow and hopefully I'll get this side done this weekend ... then the other side!!!

Thanks for looking ...