Duster Resto-mod Build [Archive]

76orangewagon

04-22-2012, 05:27 PM

Hello lateral-G members, I been following several build here and decided to start posting pics of my build. I purchased this car in September of 2010 and spent the first several months just replacing panels and fixing rust, I tknow from the begining I was leaning toward a mild pro touring build I wanted the lowered look, upgraded suspension and some modern convenience's what I am ending up with is more of a Resto Mod. The car has a custom built Triangulated rear suspension and also a custom front coil over conversion K member built around the car not the car built around it...basically I got my car at the desired stance and first and designed the suspension around it.
I have several pages of the build on another forum but I feel that my car would be better suited here since I've drawn several design inspirations from builds here. The car has a 8 3/4 rear with a 3.91 detroit tru trac center, future plans for the driveline will be a old fashion 340(stroked to 416) and a 727 torqueflight...

Tincup

04-22-2012, 05:39 PM

Nice build :thumbsup:

76orangewagon

04-22-2012, 05:46 PM

I knew there were a few FABO members here, always nice to get your comments.

FETorino

04-22-2012, 05:55 PM

Nice. :thumbsup: I love those cars.:D I so wanted to buy the Lime green one the guy did with a late model hemi and t56 that was for sale last year but I already have too much $$ in my projects.

I like the direction you are going. The old school 340s were great little mils. Top that baby off with an AAR tripower...........

DBasher

04-22-2012, 09:21 PM

rjsjea

04-22-2012, 10:50 PM

:thumbsup:

wellis77

04-22-2012, 11:50 PM

Welcome! Nice to see you drop in here...

214Chevy

04-23-2012, 07:12 AM

Looking good!! :thumbsup: :thumbsup:

waynieZ

04-23-2012, 09:19 AM

Welcome to Lat-g you have a nice build going.

SBDave

04-23-2012, 03:10 PM

nice build! Do you know what parts you are going to use to build up the 416 stroker?

-Dave

76orangewagon

04-23-2012, 04:53 PM

nice build! Do you know what parts you are going to use to build up the 416 stroker?

-Dave

So far I was able to pick up a set of Diamond pistons, I still need a Forged crank and rods...

76orangewagon

04-23-2012, 04:59 PM

Love the looks of that front suspension, looking to do something like that on my Barracuda. You have some more details?

I just parted out a 73 and thought for half a second how cool it could be...must, stay, focused.
Cool lookin ride.

:cheers:
Dan

It was made by my buddy who is a member on "For A bodies only" (FABO)
he has been building these for about 20 years and is getting ready to bring his products to the general public, As far as I am aware he only is making them for A bodies but may be open to making something for E bodies..his screen name is HemiDenny on FABO and yes he stuffs 426 Hemis into A bodie Mopars and makes them look factory.

cencalc6

04-23-2012, 05:18 PM

Nice Build!

76orangewagon

04-23-2012, 05:36 PM

here's a couple little details I've added and made so farthis weekend I decided to swap out the tail panel for a 70-71 model, the front end will be converted also.

76orangewagon

04-23-2012, 05:42 PM

heres a link to all the work from day one on this car over at FABO

http://www.forabodiesonly.com/mopar/showthread.php?t=117240

rjsjea

04-23-2012, 06:29 PM

Going to do a spoiler on the decklid? I like the idea of the front end swap to the earlier style Duster.

76orangewagon

04-23-2012, 06:55 PM

I guess the cardboard template kind of gave away the plan...I would like to design a molded in steel low profile lip but we'll see. Eventually I got to get this thing to the painter

DBasher

04-23-2012, 08:46 PM

I'll have to check it out. I've got a 67 fastback (A body) so his set up should do the trick.
How wide of a wheel/tire combo can you get up front?
That rear 4 link is the same route I'm headed, kinda based on the Ridetech/ Morrison stuff.
:cheers:
Dan

tones2SS

04-24-2012, 06:14 PM

Looking good. I enjoy a well done Mopar.

76orangewagon

04-25-2012, 08:07 AM

Looking good. I enjoy a well done Mopar.

Thanks but it's tough to hang with you GM guys, theres so much more cool off the shelf parts available of you ....Ford too.

tones2SS

04-26-2012, 06:18 PM

Thanks but it's tough to hang with you GM guys, theres so much more cool off the shelf parts available of you ....Ford too.

Yeah, the Mopars did get the "shaft", so to speak.
I wouldn't mind a pro-tour Mopar someday. Keep up the good work.

76orangewagon

04-28-2012, 06:34 AM

heres a couple pics of some nice new parts I'm waiting on...they've been on order for a couple weeks now...until then I'll do some more welding ,grinding and Modifying.

WSSix

04-29-2012, 12:41 PM

Very nice stance. Good luck completing the car. More people need to build Mopars. They have a lot of potential especially if you look outside of keeping it all Mopar.

76orangewagon

05-02-2012, 03:24 PM

What was gonna be a quick day of shooting some Southern Polyurethane's Epoxy primer snow balled a little, but got done regardless of the setbacks...once I looked at all that needed prepped, I decided to get some blasting sand and blast my welds (there's alot) to ensure a good clean surface. Well that let me find a couple pin holes and a small section of weld that gave way to the blaster as well, so after agetting those welded back solid it was time to spray. Looks like there won't be a lot of work getting those modified inner fenders in shape to paint, firewall too..one could say they still look "factory

76orangewagon

05-09-2012, 03:56 PM

Well all the Rear Bumper welding is done I have a little more fine tuning and have to make the side filler panels to make a 1/4" gap between body and bumper. Once the exhaust tips arrive and there mounting brackets are welded in place I will send the bumper off to get professionally straightened and Re-Chromed. I removed 1" total in width and welded Elevator 3/8" bolts after the holes were filled, the dual exhaust cut outs are from a 2010 Dodge Ram 1500. The first photo was about a month ago before the taillight switch and bumper mod's

tones2SS

05-09-2012, 06:35 PM

She's coming along nicely.

76orangewagon

07-03-2012, 05:56 PM

It took all day to mount the seats but it was no easy task....I could have jsut bolted them in but I would have all kinds of issues with the console and headroom. So I cut apart the seat mounting brackets and made new bolt mount tabs which lowered the seat over 1" and then used the lowest factory hole (in the background of pic with tabs)and cut the other two off which gave me another 1/2". Then there was the issue of console clearance (The custom console is 10" wide) I couldnt move the seats out since the factory floor pan where a bench seat would mount was causing major problems so the only solution was to cut out the problem and replace it with a flat piece of steel..I still have to re-make the seat reinforcements, but that should be easy. So 8 hours later I had two mounted seats. Also recieved my dash from Peak Dashs, I'm sure there will be issues there from what I hear from other Members. But after 3 1/2 months I'm just happy to have something. I mounted the gauges to get a quick peek.

76orangewagon

07-03-2012, 06:04 PM

I decided to try and make a spoiler, like all the cool cars on here. I used 1/4" rod for the framework and then ended up using .050" 4130 steel for the skin. It added more weight than I wanted but not enough that the lid wouldn't stay up on it's own, I'll adjust the hinge springs later to help it out a llittle more. Anyway this thing is sturdy as can be ...I still have to finish off the part where the two frame pieces come together ,that shouldn't take more than 45 minutes but I ran out of time today, total invested time so far is 11 hours but I really expected to be spending 3-4 weeks on this project so It's not that bad of a job. I'm really glad that I stuck with steel and was able to fully weld it to the deck lid . Enjoy

214Chevy

07-03-2012, 06:12 PM

Bro, this Duster is turning out pretty damn sweet. I like what you are doing...keep going! :yes: :yes: Keep the pics coming too!!:thumbsup: :thumbsup:

76orangewagon

07-03-2012, 06:24 PM

Bro, this Duster is turning out pretty damn sweet. I like what you are doing...keep going! :yes: :yes: Keep the pics coming too!!:thumbsup: :thumbsup:

Thanks...I appreciate the compliment

MoparCar

07-03-2012, 07:19 PM

From another Mopar guy... Nice work! Just went through your 50 plus pages over on FABO! I'm building a Challenger so I never get over there too much. Great build.

Wes

fleetus macmullitz

07-03-2012, 07:49 PM

Bro, this Duster is turning out pretty damn sweet. I like what you are doing...keep going! :yes: :yes: Keep the pics coming too!!:thumbsup: :thumbsup:

X2 :cool:

76orangewagon

07-04-2012, 07:53 AM

From another Mopar guy... Nice work! Just went through your 50 plus pages over on FABO! I'm building a Challenger so I never get over there too much. Great build.

Wes

Thanks Wes,
I keep hearing from people "thats a lot of work for being a Duster". I guess I get it since its not as desirable as a E or B body, but maybe I can make dusters cooler with a highly modified version, tastefully done. Thanks again for the compliment, I'm trying to post more here than on FABO mainly due to the higher Quality of the builds here, but it's tough to break into a GM/Camaro dominated site but I'm giving it my best.

Ross

ProTouring442

07-04-2012, 09:14 AM

Sweet!!

Shiny Side Up!
Bill

manny z

07-04-2012, 11:34 AM

Cool, another Mopar. :thumbsup:

waynieZ

07-04-2012, 02:18 PM

Thanks Wes,
I keep hearing from people "thats a lot of work for being a Duster".Ross

Nice mods! I like what your doing. When I was a teenager there were plenty of nice Dusters around that held their own plenty! :thumbsup:

76orangewagon

07-04-2012, 04:54 PM

Nice mods! I like what your doing. When I was a teenager there were plenty of nice Dusters around that held their own plenty! :thumbsup:.

Thanks I'm trying to think outside the box a little with the mods, but keep the Integrity and character of the Duster

214Chevy

07-04-2012, 05:03 PM

... I keep hearing from people "thats a lot of work for being a Duster"

Cuz, it's just plain bad ass...that's why!!:yes: :yes:

MoparCar

07-04-2012, 07:18 PM

Thanks Wes,
I keep hearing from people "thats a lot of work for being a Duster". I guess I get it since its not as desirable as a E or B body, but maybe I can make dusters cooler with a highly modified version, tastefully done. Thanks again for the compliment, I'm trying to post more here than on FABO mainly due to the higher Quality of the builds here, but it's tough to break into a GM/Camaro dominated site but I'm giving it my best.

Ross

I actually love A-Bodies-Dusters, Darts, etc. My first choice would probably have been a 68 Dart build, but my wife didn't like Darts as well as a Challenger. I needed her support to justify the costs! LOL :D

The Duster is well worth all the work!
Wes

76orangewagon

07-05-2012, 10:33 AM

Here's the color combo I'm planning on going with, Granite Pearl for the body and Hot Rod Black on the hood treatment outlined with a bold red to match my Wilwood calipers.

Tincup

07-06-2012, 07:41 PM

It is gonna look awesome.......:thumbsup:

rjsjea

07-07-2012, 10:22 AM

Nice color choices

moparnate

07-08-2012, 10:27 PM

nice build, i love the mods your doing. its gonna be sweet!

R.A.D

12-16-2012, 05:16 PM

anything happening here?

76orangewagon

12-16-2012, 07:17 PM

Thanks for asking.....Well the body is getting worked on, I really like the custom made cowl vent, it looks factory till you compare it to a stock A Body mopar. The spoiler didn't turn out 100% the way I wanted but I might be to critical. All the machine work for the 416" is done and my custom timing cover/motor mount engine plate is in progress...it will have 2" poly bushings that connect it to the custom K frame to help eliminate vibration (see pics), the white paper is the pattern for 6061 aluminum plate that wil be .875" thick and match up with the overhang of the Edelbrock heads and then radius out to 2" thick for the timing cover. It should be pretty unique once complete.

76orangewagon

12-17-2012, 05:02 PM

Here's some pics of the interior stuff, I took the new Cipher auto seats to the local upholstery shop so she could match the rear to the front pattern and also remove the front wings (1st pic) that I wasn't the biggest fan of, The rear seat turned out nicer than the fronts so I took the fronts back again to make them as equal to the rear.
I have been working on the custom dash, I decided to go with all push button, no pull knobs here. I got all the custom Autometer gauges wired and all the relays to the switches, theres one less headache to deal with.

BADcarma

12-18-2012, 01:05 PM

I had a Duster for many years and sometimes wish I still had it. I like the direction you're going with this project. Looking Good!

76orangewagon

12-18-2012, 02:22 PM

I had a Duster for many years and sometimes wish I still had it. I like the direction you're going with this project. Looking Good!

Thanks,

It won't be the baddest or fastest Duster once completed, but with several hundred modifications... it will definatley be unique and hard if not imposible to copy. There are several one off parts through out the build.... some are obvious, most are not. Heck I forget half the time all the changes I made.

R.A.D

12-19-2012, 04:57 PM

Thanks,

It won't be the baddest or fastest Duster once completed, but with several hundred modifications... it will definatley be unique and hard if not imposible to copy. There are several one off parts through out the build.... some are obvious, most are not. Heck I forget half the time all the changes I made.

the build should be all about you:D

FETorino

12-19-2012, 05:23 PM

76orangewagon

12-20-2012, 01:51 PM

I figure it all hinges on the paint work and color (granite pearl...not honda's version). Hopefully the car will be done sometime in Febuary-ish.

rjsjea

12-20-2012, 04:35 PM

Dash will look good when it's all done. Whats the plans for finish on it? paint or powder or Ano?

76orangewagon

12-20-2012, 06:49 PM

Dash will look good when it's all done. Whats the plans for finish on it? paint or powder or Ano?

I'm thinking Matte Black for the aluminum gauge face and body color for the frame my new dash pad is black, the Custom console will have the same color combo same with the steel package tray.

Ripped

12-20-2012, 07:23 PM

76orangewagon

12-21-2012, 04:49 AM

Very nice build. I really like the fact that you're using the 'LA" block.

Great revving motors. Can't wait to see more as the build progresses.

What heads are you using on the motor (I am asking because I had the W2 heads on mine) and yours in the pic look like the original style exhaust ports.

Thanks,
I am using Edelbrock Performer RPM that have been bowl blended by Compu-flow, the supplied edelbrock springs have been swapped out in place of a set of Comp Cams set to match the cam and also went to a 10 degree lock in place of edelbrocks 7 degree.

76orangewagon

01-26-2013, 06:04 PM

Well, I decided to open up the AAR style scoop and change the front lip design, it not completed yet but here is some progress pics. the original opening was 1.25" and the new one is going to be 3". I also made the motor mount extensions, there .500" thick and with a 1.5" dia bushing I should have the timing cover done in a few more weeks. Also test fit the holes for my shock tower coil over supports

Sonar Chief

01-26-2013, 08:12 PM

76orangewagon

01-27-2013, 06:59 AM

You are doing a great job ... I really like the dash layout,and homemade :thumbsup: Where did you get the push button switches? Did they come labeled or did someone do that for you?

Seats are kool too :D

The buttons are from AutoLoc, there 22mm diameter and they come labeled, they have several standard labels and graphics they will also to custom text.
Here is a link to there web site.
http://www.autoloc.com/products/buttonbuilder/

Sonar Chief

01-27-2013, 08:43 AM

The buttons are from AutoLoc, there 22mm diameter and they come labeled, they have several standard labels and graphics they will also to custom text.
Here is a link to there web site.
http://www.autoloc.com/products/buttonbuilder/

Hey thanks for the link ... are you going to use anything else from AutoLoc?
:thankyou:

WSSix

01-27-2013, 08:50 AM

I like the hood design. Keep up the good work!

76orangewagon

01-27-2013, 09:25 AM

Hey thanks for the link ... are you going to use anything else from AutoLoc?
:thankyou:

Actually Autoloc is part of The Hoffman Group, heres a link to thier home page ...at the top click on any of the icons. I also have there Push Button auto start system, and am considering there wiring harness from Keep It Clean.

http://www.thehoffmangroup.com/stellar/

76orangewagon

07-04-2013, 09:00 AM

It's been awhile since I posted any updates.....so I hade a 1 piece timing chain cover and motor mount combo and now I will have plenty of room for the power rack. I also have been working on fitting the front bumper to the fenders, I removed almost 2" of bumper and added 5" driving lights for a unique look (for a Duster). I also made a custom retractable tow hook integrated into the front right corner.

camcojb

07-04-2013, 09:22 AM

That's a very cool build. :thumbsup:

aggie91

07-04-2013, 09:24 AM

Cool Project. I like that body style Duster. Can't wait to see more.

76orangewagon

07-24-2013, 06:34 PM

I wish I had the Mod Man Multi-port intake before I post these pics but I'm kinda pumped about todays delivery so without further delay here is another cool engine add on part for the 416 to make it stand out a little more. Dual Polished FAST EFI throttle bodies (1375 CFM each) FAST Dual sync distributor, FAST 2.0 XFI 2.0 and all the wiring and sensors. I'm still waiting on a Indy Mod Man intake converted to run Multi port EFI with Bosch injectors (44 lb/hr) and 18" Fast fuel rails being set up by Richard Nedbal from Fastman EFI. The bottom Picture is a unmodified Mod Man intake without the top plate. Another thing I think is really cool is the fact that the throttle bodies are only 2" tall, no hood clearance problems here.

76orangewagon

07-29-2013, 07:01 PM

Today I finally got a break in the weather and got the Dash frame, Dash insert and Center Console painted Jet Black and then cleared with Alsa Soft Touch clear, according to the Alsa website once dried the clear is hard as nails and they say scrath proof but has the feel of rubber, Suade or Velvet. More to follow on that after it dries...the pics were taken about 30 minutes after the parts were cleared, from what I hear it will look different when dry. Enjoy

76orangewagon

07-30-2013, 06:26 PM

Okay It's been 24 hours and I've been anxious to touch the panels and it was worth the wait, this stuff feels like no other Clear coat I've came across....it actually feels like a soft rubbery coating, Im not going to test the anti-scratch part of thier claim. It has the look I was looking for and once assembled should resemble a factory type dash that most people probally wont be able to tell that it didn't come that way. Hopefully friday I'll get to fully assemble it and use my good camera to get better pics.

-Freak-

08-07-2013, 12:34 PM

Ross that dash is amazingly clean and well thought out, nicely done!
How many hours do you think you have into it?

Are you going to have any venting mounted under the dash or just use the top two?

76orangewagon

08-07-2013, 02:33 PM

Ross that dash is amazingly clean and well thought out, nicely done!
How many hours do you think you have into it?

Are you going to have any venting mounted under the dash or just use the top two?

I stopped adding up hours long ago, but I really don't think I have an unreasonable amount, a few here and a few there probally add up to alot more than I estimate though.
I was just gonna use the two on the top but will have to redesign the inlets since they are right on top of my gauges and relay packs.

BADcarma

08-09-2013, 08:47 PM

I love this project. Awesome work!!!

garickman

08-09-2013, 08:57 PM

Damn! Nice job on the dash. Great build you have going on.

76orangewagon

08-13-2013, 07:09 PM

Thanks for the compliments guys, heres some more updated pics. I got all the push buttons installed and the billet vent rings, the square box between the billet rings is the sensor for the Autometer GPS Speeedometer. Also finally got the intake so I don't have to use 4"x4" for mock up, I started working on my Custom Valve covers and made a 1:1 ratio linkage to connect the Dual Throttle bodies together. Also making a little more progress on the body(thats been at the shop for 1 year now). Enjoy

76orangewagon

09-29-2013, 02:20 PM

Heres a few more progress pics.

FETorino

09-29-2013, 10:21 PM

:wow: :y0!: More please.

:cheers:

aggie91

09-30-2013, 09:30 AM

Looks great, the engine loks killer!

76orangewagon

10-02-2013, 06:53 AM

Well due to a Government shutdow I have plenty of free time as of today...So I stopped by the Powder coater and picked up my Ceramic coated headers, nothing like adding some more shiny stuff to the motor. I think I'll have them Ceramic coat my oil pan so everything sorta matches. I also worked on the 2" Valve Covers spacers so I can get them to eventually fit perfect to the valve cover, the Drivers side is almost done the passenger side isn't even started.

76orangewagon

10-13-2013, 01:48 PM

I finally had a chance to make the final version of the Radiator support cove this one is made out of .050" steel but I wont be able to test fit it untill next week then I'll weld the middle together and after some minor body work it will be ready for paint. Thanks for looking ...Enjoy

76orangewagon

10-13-2013, 01:51 PM

I also had a chance to make some more progress on the Valve Covers. I bonded the 2" spacer to the cover and sanded the two together to get a perfect fit, the thin line you see is the aluminum epoxy between the two pieces and you can't feel the line when you run your finger over it so when I paint them it will look like a 1 piece 5 1/4" Valve Cover. I also had a chance to make a set of Adjustable Aluminum front fender strut rods to replace the stamped steel factory ones (Last Pic).

Lowfast

10-13-2013, 06:20 PM

Subscribed to watch this all come together, very nice.

WSSix

10-13-2013, 06:50 PM

I really like what you've done and the direction you're going with this car. Good job and good luck!

fleetus macmullitz

10-13-2013, 06:56 PM

I really like what you've done and the direction you're going with this car.

X2. :thumbsup:

76orangewagon

10-31-2013, 08:06 PM

Went to check on the progress of the body work and test fit the actual Radiator cover panel (no more aluminum mock up).

syborg tt

11-01-2013, 08:48 AM

I see paint by Christmas.

Ricochet

11-01-2013, 08:57 AM

Just chewed through the entire thread. Great job! I will echo the dash the looks great! Paint choice is going to look stellar! Keep up the good work!

76orangewagon

11-01-2013, 12:46 PM

I see paint by Christmas.

Man, I sure hope your right. The funny part is It was suppose to be painted by last Christmas..at least whats what I assumed when I dropped it off August 2012 The painter said "it would be painted by Christmas" I thought that meant 4 months from then (Christmas 2012).

76orangewagon

11-01-2013, 12:51 PM

Just chewed through the entire thread. Great job! I will echo the dash the looks great! Paint choice is going to look stellar! Keep up the good work!

Thanks for the Compliment, The longer the painter takes the more I think about the color combo. I just met with him again today to discuss exactly what I want.

76orangewagon

11-01-2013, 06:20 PM

I made a nice compact mounting bracket for the AutoLoc Push button starter control unit with RFID, the bracket off the back with the 4 holes are for the relays (yet to be installed and wired). I still have to install the MSD 6AL in the glove box and that should be all the dash wiring. The Highway 22 kit will probally go in the trunk with the extra long wiring kit since I'm planning on installing the F.A.S.T computer to the passenger kick panel.

XTRMEASURES

11-02-2013, 09:48 AM

Love the interior parts

Bakaruda

11-15-2013, 05:15 PM

Great car.

groovyjay

11-16-2013, 02:53 AM

Great build! :yes:

76orangewagon

11-23-2013, 03:50 PM

Thanks for the comments guys, I managed to get the metal filler panels for the grille/hood header panel made and welded in and also add a couple pieces to complete the Radiator cover panel. Still waiting on the car to get Primed.

76orangewagon

11-30-2013, 06:28 PM

I went to test fit the Radiator Cover and modified hood latch support also I wanted to check in on the progress (Getting Closer). I also ran a new paint color by the painter. I found some pictures of a 2013 Hot Wheels Camaro and really like the Kinetic Blue paint, I kind of felt bad because he had just showed me the Ferrari Gregio Silverstone he just whipped up for a test sample but he was a good sport about it and said he liked the blue also. I was thinking about a custom Matte Graphite stripe like in the last two Mustang pictures to make it different from the Camaro . I tried to use my photo program to get an Idea of what this would look like all together but I have no Idea how to do it, I might have to get out my pencil and crayola crayons. Enjoy the pictures

76orangewagon

12-03-2013, 06:42 PM

First off let me say I'm Sorry for the crappy cell phone pics. With that said I swapped out my old new Fabricated K frame for the latest version offered by the builder, he said he wanted me to have the latest and greatest version for when the car is revealed. I made and welded the motor mounts K frame brackets on and now the motor can be assembled and the suspension can get Powdercoated, I still have to make the Alternator and Power Steering mounting brackets but obviously need the crankshaft and harmonic balancer installed to get the spacing right. Enjoy the Pics

76orangewagon

12-03-2013, 06:58 PM

If anybody out there is a photoshop pro and wants to earn a little Christmas cash, I would love to see a couple color combos options that I have in my head before I commit to the actual color and stripe layout...P.M me if interested. thanks for looking

76orangewagon

12-04-2013, 04:40 AM

FYI....the AMD box in the background stencil says "GLASS", not ...well you know.

76orangewagon

12-14-2013, 03:12 PM

Not a major update but I did get the Custom Hemi Denny K frame Powder Coated in a Satin Black...Sorry still waiting on the painted shell to come back, but it's still moving forward.

rjsjea

12-14-2013, 08:37 PM

Motor looks tough for sure

76orangewagon

12-15-2013, 07:40 AM

Motor looks tough for sure

Thanks ....any updates on your Demon build? Your build was one of the inspirations to start the Duster you see here.

76orangewagon

12-15-2013, 07:59 AM

I was just informed by the Suspension builder I installed the sway bar link wrong...its supposed to be under the lower control arm to work properly with the built in Anti dive geometry angle. Oops

rjsjea

12-15-2013, 11:28 AM

Thanks ....any updates on your Demon build? Your build was one of the inspirations to start the Duster you see here.

No updates, I'm building a bagged/LS1 Rambler wagon currently.

76orangewagon

01-17-2014, 03:41 PM

I got the motor back from the engine shop last week and started making the KRC Power Steering pump mount, that's the bad part about making something like that Billet Timing cover, you have to make all the accessory stuff to go with it. The bracket still need's sanded and polished but everything is mocked up except the 30" 6 groove belt. I also got the timing cover drilled and tapped and mounted the modified Chevy adjustable Billet timing pointer. Once my Billet Tech 170 Amp Alternator arrives I can start working on mounting that also. Thanks for looking.

76orangewagon

01-17-2014, 04:27 PM

I had to make a riser for my Aeromotive fuel pump system, my tank was about 1/2" short once I added the filter to the bottom, so I took a 1" block and milled it out then welded it in place of the Carb sump and return the tank came with. I had previously made a fuel inlet and added a provision for the fuel level sender ( second pic)....that still may change so I can use a floatless level.

76orangewagon

01-22-2014, 03:11 PM

Fed Ex delivered my BilletTech Alternator today....now I just have to start making some brackets to mount the darn thing, this may be a little more involved that the Power Steering, my only concern down low is it interfering with the lower Radiator hose and the routing of it to the Radiator, There's about 5" between the outlet and the Alternator so I should have plenty of room to route something. Out of curiosity I thought about mounting it on the Drivers side cylinder head and also tried putting it where the Water Pump is and going with a remote mount pump for cooling but in the end I decided that passenger side down low looks best. I'm really impressed with this Alternator, Check out the output of this thing.....146 Amps@800 RPM and 174 Amps@1800 RPM !!!

76orangewagon

01-22-2014, 03:18 PM

I also re-made the Power steering bracket and trimmed it down quite a bit.

HWY Nova

01-22-2014, 03:20 PM

Very clean design work!

--Eric

76orangewagon

01-22-2014, 03:37 PM

Very clean design work!

--Eric

Thanks Eric....the alternator mount will prove to be a little more challenging. But I'll give it my best shot.

HWY Nova

01-22-2014, 03:42 PM

chet

01-22-2014, 04:12 PM

nice color combo! Everytime I wash my ram 1500 I think those bumper cut outs would look good on other cars, now I know! Nice work

tones2SS

01-22-2014, 06:09 PM

Good job. Looks great!

76orangewagon

01-22-2014, 06:14 PM

Personally, I like it low on the passenger-side. Your engine compartment will look very clean with it mounted low.

Will you be adding another belt, or are you trying to turn everything with a single belt.

--Eric

I have the 5.75" pulley on the way from KRC and will be driving the Alternator with a separate belt..and thanks for the vote to mount it down low.

76orangewagon

01-22-2014, 06:18 PM

nice color combo! Everytime I wash my ram 1500 I think those bumper cut outs would look good on other cars, now I know! Nice work

Thanks, that's kind of what I thought one day when I was at a stop light sitting behind a Ram a few years ago...originally it was going to be a center exit exhaust.

76orangewagon

01-24-2014, 02:35 PM

I had some time today for Mock up and try to figure out the Alternator Bracket...made some progress on that, which consisted of throwing out what I started and going a totally different direction, if my idea's pan out it should be pretty trick when done. As you can see I decided to bolt the HDK K frame up, I had to remove the Rack to fit around the engine cart but everything looks like it will have plenty of room and not interfere with other parts. I also set the Valve covers and induction system on to get a better feel for the Power Steering Reservoir potential mounting location, it's either here or the Radiator support next to the Radiator hidden under the front cover. Enjoy the pics...

HWY Nova

01-24-2014, 02:38 PM

Looking good! You'll be done in no time.

- - Eric

76orangewagon

01-24-2014, 03:33 PM

Looking good! You'll be done in no time.

- - Eric

I Still need a painted body to put it in....17 months and counting in paint jail.

khofer

02-07-2014, 09:44 PM

Just finished the 125 pages of this build on the "A"Bodies forum. The innovations are outstanding, and workmanship equally as good.:thumbsup: :thumbsup:
I admire your patience and perseverance to try and get things just the way you want them. Will be watching for the finish of this project. Thanks for taking the time to post pictures and descriptions of the build.

Kerry

76orangewagon

02-09-2014, 07:11 AM

waynieZ

02-09-2014, 01:49 PM

That looks awesome! Great job.

76orangewagon

02-11-2014, 12:16 PM

That looks awesome! Great job.

Thanks, I appreciate that.

76orangewagon

02-14-2014, 05:42 PM

Okay enough with the plexi-glas templates, I made my 1st Alternator mounting bracket out of .500" 7075 t-6 aluminum and will make adjustments from there next week on the second one, I am going to cut it down as much as possible but everything aligns and will take a 26.7" serpentine belt and be the same length as the Power steering belt. I also got a email from Kris Horton of the Duster rendering he's working on for me it's only in greyscale so far but I think it's cool.

glassman

02-15-2014, 10:31 AM

Very very nice.

Dave B

02-15-2014, 07:54 PM

Sweet Build! You think it's tough dealing with people about building a Duster, you should try being into Mavericks.....

76orangewagon

02-15-2014, 08:18 PM

Sweet Build! You think it's tough dealing with people about building a Duster, you should try being into Mavericks.....

Do they think your car is a Vega? because for some reason people think Dusters are Nova's......A guy down the road sold a real nice Comet this summer, I was tempted to pick it up.

76orangewagon

02-15-2014, 08:22 PM

Very very nice.

Thanks for the compliment...

WSSix

02-15-2014, 09:39 PM

Great idea keeping the accessories low to show off the great looking heads and valve covers.

cozmo76

02-16-2014, 04:10 AM

really cool duster mate, not a car that has ever appealed to me but yours looks awesome! keep up the good work.

76orangewagon

02-16-2014, 07:48 AM

Great idea keeping the accessories low to show off the great looking heads and valve covers.

Thanks, Unfortunately everything has to be custom made for a application like this. I was going to buy a GM low mount kit and try to modify it like I did the Chevy Timing pointer but decided to save the $$$$ and make my own. I'm not done with the Valve covers either ...If I had a project name I would Water Jet it into them but I want to give them more dimension regardless of a logo or name.

76orangewagon

02-16-2014, 07:53 AM

really cool duster mate, not a car that has ever appealed to me but yours looks awesome! keep up the good work.

Thanks Cozmo76,
I hear from co workers and friends..."That's a lot of work for just being a Duster, you should have done that to a Cuda' or Road Runner." But originally it was only going to be slightly modified...and then the snowball effect started.

Dave B

02-16-2014, 08:35 PM

Do they think your car is a Vega? because for some reason people think Dusters are Nova's......A guy down the road sold a real nice Comet this summer, I was tempted to pick it up.

Vega's for sure, I had a guy at a car show say to me "You must know a lot about AMC's.." once I explained to him it was a Ford, he walked away very quickly...:) The other common mistake is Camaro..

76orangewagon

02-23-2014, 04:17 PM

I managed to finally get a Alternator mount made, It's not my favorite design but it works and once plated, polished or painted (haven't decided on the finish yet) and dropped in the engine bay it will disappear and be forgotten. I swapped out my power steering fluid reservoir for something a little cleaner and smaller and started designing a bracket to mount it to the single head bolt on the drivers side and use the gap between the head and block as a lock to keep it from tilting and rotating.

76orangewagon

02-24-2014, 05:51 PM

I Re-made the Power Steering mount today and after mounting it I decided tomorrow I will re-design it for the third and hopefully final time, each time It seems to get smaller and cleaner like the Alternator and Power Steering pump mounts did. At least this will give a better idea of the size and location once complete.

Bowtieracing

02-24-2014, 06:08 PM

Best lookin alternator i have ever seen, and same goes for your Duster project. My friend had high reving W2 340/4speed Duster in early 90's and that car set my fire on this crazy hobby :)

76orangewagon

03-09-2014, 02:42 PM

Ketzer

03-10-2014, 10:16 AM

I am going to use the upper shoulder belt bolt hole for an attaching point to the top of the hoop for stability,

I've thought about this too! Surprised more don't do this, seems like a great way to tie back into the body and get some more strength.
Love this project, these are really under used body styles.

Jeff-

76orangewagon

03-10-2014, 11:53 AM

Since it's mainly a street car and I hate to work around a welded in cage when it comes to installing an interior, the cross bar will be removable for rear passenger access and also will serve as an attaching point for the shoulder belts. Once the interior is installed (rear seat, headliner, carpet) I can bolt the bar in place.

76orangewagon

03-14-2014, 02:19 PM

My correct length 6 rib serpentine belts (26.7") from KRC power Steering showed up and I finally had a chance to make sure everything is bolted down and works the way it should before I paint or polish everything. I also picked up a Billet Specialties Black Formula D shaped steering wheel with Contrasting Cuts that match up pretty well with the dash and Billet buttons.

Bowtieracing

03-15-2014, 05:57 AM

Looks really nice. Where did you got those billet buttons?

76orangewagon

03-15-2014, 07:23 AM

Looks really nice. Where did you got those billet buttons?

There from Autoloc, there the 22mm ones and are laser etched with there control function. Here's a link to there website.

http://www.autoloc.com/products/buttonbuilder/

SSLance

03-15-2014, 01:28 PM

I decided to start mocking up some weld in reinforcement brackets for my bolt in main hoop bar and pro touring door bars. I am not going to use the rear bars instead I am going to use the upper shoulder belt bolt hole for an attaching point to the top of the hoop for stability, like the 60's Shelby mustang bar

Hmmm, you've got my wheels turning now. I like this idea, I'm thinking it's just what I've been looking for to put in my car.

My main reason for wanting to add a roll bar is for the cross bar to use as a harness mounting location and like yourself...the car is mainly a street car and I'd like to keep the nice interior not all cut up plus retain access to the rear seat.

Do you plan to make the bar mount to the seat bolt area a bit stouter than the Shelby looking mount? And what do you plan on using for safety belts?

Ultimately I'd like to retain a 3 point retractable belt for everyday use and have a way to bolt the harness bar in place and and install a set of 5 or 6 point harnesses for track days.

I have less room for a door bar than a rear bar though, so it might be easier for me to put rear bars in. Are your door bars going to be welded in?

Loving your build btw...subscribed...

76orangewagon

03-15-2014, 07:50 PM

Hmmm, you've got my wheels turning now. I like this idea, I'm thinking it's just what I've been looking for to put in my car.

My main reason for wanting to add a roll bar is for the cross bar to use as a harness mounting location and like yourself...the car is mainly a street car and I'd like to keep the nice interior not all cut up plus retain access to the rear seat.

Do you plan to make the bar mount to the seat bolt area a bit stouter than the Shelby looking mount? And what do you plan on using for safety belts?

Ultimately I'd like to retain a 3 point retractable belt for everyday use and have a way to bolt the harness bar in place and and install a set of 5 or 6 point harnesses for track days.

I have less room for a door bar than a rear bar though, so it might be easier for me to put rear bars in. Are your door bars going to be welded in?

Loving your build btw...subscribed...

I actually have thought about making the top mount location more wedged shaped and tie it in to the main hoop throughout the roof line bend for a more rugged looking mount but it still will bolt in to a single point and only provide a certain amount of stability... which should be plenty for it's intended purpose.

I plan on using 4 point Racing harness with the shoulder belts passing thru the seat back opening. I figure 95% of the time It will just have front seat passengers so I can run the crossbar and shoulder belts, if I do have rear passengers I won't hot rodding to much and have a real need to be fully strapped in.

The door bars will bolted in at the front mounting points and I am planning on clamping the rear mounting points to the main hoop like a Ridetech Tiger cage.

76orangewagon

03-22-2014, 03:47 PM

Here's an update on the roll bar support brackets, I re-made them and got them welded in, the new design not only looks better but without that corner sticking out should be more convenient for rear passengers. I stopped by Summit Racing and picked up a Chassis Engineering main hoop for an "A" body Mopar ...as you can see it was too long to fit on top of the brackets so I'll have to take 3" off each leg and make a jig to hold it so I can widen it at the bottom by about 2.75"per leg so it's tucked in close to the interior panels. I will be on a 5 month Military Deployment soon so the build will be coming to a halt, and I just accepted a position at Patrick AFB, Fl starting as soon as I get back...so the future of the car is unclear, I was offered $15K Thursday night for the car the way it sits, after I chuckled a little I said "That's what I have in the engine and that's not including all the custom made parts on it".

76orangewagon

04-27-2014, 04:49 PM

I Finally got the Rendering from Kris Horton....Man I really dig it. Here's the Bad News, I leave within a few weeks for several months on a Military Deployment so work on my end will come to a complete stop, the up side is the body will be painted by the time I return. I hope everyone enjoys the Rendering, see you all in the fall for the updates to start again.

HWY Nova

04-27-2014, 04:56 PM

WOW!!!! Very nice!

--Eric

66fury

04-27-2014, 05:14 PM

sweet !!!!

syborg tt

04-27-2014, 09:15 PM

looks very nice

revmopar

04-28-2014, 06:28 PM

That looks great

Kris Horton

06-01-2014, 10:24 PM

Have a safe deployment Ross! It was great working with you and can't wait to see the finished car. You're doing an amazing job with everything so far and it's only getting better. Be safe over there!

Kris

76orangewagon

06-02-2014, 06:54 PM

rjsjea

06-03-2014, 10:24 AM

Good looking rendering..

76orangewagon

06-04-2014, 01:51 PM

Thanks Rob,
Your demon was an inspiration for the build

rjsjea

06-04-2014, 04:55 PM

Thanks Rob,
Your demon was an inspiration for the build

Your progress has surpassed mine.....I've got a little AMC project going now. Stay safe on your deployment

76orangewagon

07-21-2014, 07:05 PM

Well it's not a progress picture but here's just one of the cool things I get to work on during this Current Military Deployment......Now, If I could just incorporate some of the design and technology in the Duster !

Evan Iroc-Z

07-22-2014, 07:59 AM

That's very cool! Those things are incredible feats for ingenuity.

Thank you very much for serving!

syborg tt

07-22-2014, 08:28 AM

76orangewagon

07-22-2014, 05:55 PM

I really enjoy what I do and your welcome.

tombar67

07-22-2014, 09:55 PM

76orangewagon

10-27-2014, 06:17 PM

I'm back from my deployment :bigun2: and started back on the car. The Motor is on the Dyno and should be done tomorrow. Hope you enjoy the pics, I think the car looks spot on to the rendering.

waynieZ

10-27-2014, 07:50 PM

Thank you for your service and Welcome home ! The car looks Sweet, I like the paint scheme. I hope you get the motor in soon so we cane hear it.

Dave Pratt

10-27-2014, 09:23 PM

65 347

10-27-2014, 09:29 PM

Looks great, nice to see something different.

Mike

76orangewagon

10-28-2014, 06:12 AM

Ross even though I'm from Canada I'd still like to thank you for your service as I do all our military.I've just been through your entire build and the engineering that you've put into this build is really impressive.That's putting it mildly...I'm currently working on my 69 Camaro and I liked the look of seats you chose.Could you tell me what type they are?
This is such a cool build !...cheers

Dave

Thanks Dave, there were some Canadian Air Force stationed with us and they are a fun and great group of guys and gals. The Seats are from Ciphert auto and I removed the Shoulder bolsters to look more like a factory seat and had the middle Suede inserts changed out to match the rear seat. Here's a picture in there original form (Left) and the modified version in the car (Right).

syborg tt

10-28-2014, 07:15 AM

Car looks great and I am happy you are back on it.

Thank you very much for your service and now get back to work on this car so we can see it finished.

76orangewagon

10-28-2014, 09:14 AM

Car looks great and I am happy you are back on it.

Thank you very much for your service and now get back to work on this car so we can see it finished.

Thanks for the kind words and support...my goal is to finished and on the road by June 2015

WSSix

10-28-2014, 09:53 AM

Welcome home and welcome back! Car looks like it's coming along nicely. The paint scheme looks great. Good luck.

syborg tt

10-28-2014, 01:30 PM

Thanks for the kind words and support...my goal is to finished and on the road by June 2015

You thinking about doing the power Tour ??

76orangewagon

10-28-2014, 01:48 PM

You thinking about doing the power Tour ??

My friend went this year for the first time and really enjoyed it, so depending on where it runs and my work schedule its always a possibility.

76orangewagon

10-28-2014, 05:10 PM

Welcome home and welcome back! Car looks like it's coming along nicely. The paint scheme looks great. Good luck.

Thanks I appreciate that.

76orangewagon

10-30-2014, 05:45 PM

Well the little small block 416 came back from the Dyno, 502 HP @5700RPM and 495 torque @4100 RPM. I painted the motor but am not really sold on the color so tomorrow it might get a repaint to something a little darker that matches the stripe color. My cool interior door handles arrived from Gabe's.

76orangewagon

10-31-2014, 02:34 PM

I Just had to repaint the Motor and Wow I'm really glad I did, It turned out much better than I thought it would, I was worried about it being to dark and hide the details and contrast. I went and got the exact same Base/Clear that's on the Stripe, no variation this time.

66fury

10-31-2014, 04:33 PM

way betta !

waynieZ

10-31-2014, 06:55 PM

It looks good.

Rick D

11-01-2014, 09:41 AM

WOW I don't know how I miseed this one but WOW! I just went through all 17 pages and WOW! Great build.

Thank you for your service!!! :military:

WSSix

11-01-2014, 09:41 AM

Nice power numbers on the engine. Should be lots of fun to drive.

76orangewagon

11-01-2014, 06:03 PM

Thanks for the words of encouragement and support.....I really appreciate it.

76orangewagon

11-14-2014, 02:27 PM

HWY Nova

11-14-2014, 02:34 PM

Work of art!!!!!

--Eric

76orangewagon

11-14-2014, 04:14 PM

Work of art!!!!!

--Eric

Thanks...I still might swap out the water pump for a remote unit with a -16 AN feeding each side directly into the timing cover, once installed I'll see if I have room to mount the pump since the Alternator is in the same area and might be in the way.

76orangewagon

11-16-2014, 02:08 PM

Painted the Transmission and got everything bolted together. If all goes well it should be installed next weekend.

WSSix

11-16-2014, 07:11 PM

Work of art!!!!!

--Eric

x2 The engine and trans look fantastic. I'd be afraid of getting it dirty honestly. Good luck!

Panteracer

11-16-2014, 08:43 PM

Nicest and cleanest brackets I have
ever seen. Need to show tis this to my mopar
buddies. Great work

Panteracer

76orangewagon

11-22-2014, 07:00 AM

It's in....the motor is raised 1" in the chassis and moved back 1/2", with the 5" tall valve covers it looks like a "bigger" small block.

strtcar

11-22-2014, 07:57 AM

Awesome build.

Sonar Chief

11-22-2014, 11:48 AM

I've managed to get the front together and bolted to the k-frame, unfortunately my transmission won't bolt on because the builder built me a Big Block transmission, tomorrow I get the correct one and then I can install everything together.

Nice numbers on the engine ... hey who makes the mounting brackets you used on the engine? Nevermind, I just zoomed in and saw KRC! COOL!

Keep us updated ... looks good!

Michael

76orangewagon

11-22-2014, 02:28 PM

Nice numbers on the engine ... hey who makes the mounting brackets you used on the engine? Nevermind, I just zoomed in and saw KRC! COOL!

Keep us updated ... looks good!

Michael

Actually....The pulleys and power steering pump are from KRC, I made the mounting brackets and had them Anodized black.

waynieZ

11-22-2014, 05:41 PM

Nice job on the accessory drive, the brackets came out nice. Everything tucked up nice and tight.

76orangewagon

11-28-2014, 02:27 PM

Todays progress....Got all the wildwood brakes mounted and flipped the upper control arms over and re-installed the ball joint so I could get the the 5 degrees positive caster that the suspension builder recommended. Also included a picture of the modified Transmission cross member for the 1" raised and 3/4" set back driveline.

aggie91

12-01-2014, 10:40 AM

Looking Good!

76orangewagon

12-02-2014, 04:40 PM

Adjusted the front suspension today and set the Duster on the ground for the first time looks like it's about 1/2" low in the front and 1" high in the rear to get the desired stance.

HWY Nova

12-02-2014, 05:02 PM

.... and set the Duster on the ground for the first time.

And I bet you are still smiling!!!! CONGATULATIONS!

--Eric

tones2SS

12-02-2014, 05:41 PM

Looking really good.

76orangewagon

12-03-2014, 04:43 AM

And I bet you are still smiling!!!! CONGATULATIONS!

more like the TV commercial "if you have an erection for more than 4 hours consult your physician".

--Eric

Looking really good.

Thanks, it's getting there.

Rick D

12-03-2014, 05:25 AM

Wow that looks sooooo bad AZZ!!! Congrats on getting on the ground!! :flag2:

76orangewagon

12-03-2014, 02:15 PM

Wow that looks sooooo bad AZZ!!! Congrats on getting on the ground!! :flag2:

Thank you..... but right after I took these pictures it went right back up in the air and the wheels and tires came back off. I need to upgrade my Coil over hoop for more clearance swap out the lower control arm shaft to the latest version that's out and tidy up some more stuff on the underside.

syborg tt

12-03-2014, 08:01 PM

I agree the stance looks killer but it does need to come up a little in the front.

76orangewagon

12-04-2014, 07:24 PM

my MCI center console finally arrived today, the bad part is I started making my own but I'm definitely going to use the MCI piece.

Tincup

12-12-2014, 02:02 PM

There's nothing wrong with the one you made, looks very good. Where did you get that shifter, it's very cool...

GregWeld

12-12-2014, 05:45 PM

I don't know how I missed this thread -- I'm super impressed with all the work being done.

BTW -- Thanks for your service!

waynieZ

12-12-2014, 09:31 PM

Your console would look as good as the one you bought when you are done with it..

76orangewagon

12-13-2014, 07:14 AM

There's nothing wrong with the one you made, looks very good. Where did you get that shifter, it's very cool...

Thanks Tin,
The shifter is from Kilduff.

76orangewagon

12-13-2014, 07:17 AM

I don't know how I missed this thread -- I'm super impressed with all the work being done.

BTW -- Thanks for your service!

Thank you, I appreciate your comments.

Your console would look as good as the one you bought when you are done with it..

I have to agree but with everything else having to be completed, I really didn't want to invest all the hours needed to finish it...I'm trying to have the car done for the Mopar Nationals this coming August.

76orangewagon

12-14-2014, 07:06 AM

Another Milestone knocked out...Dash is installed, I ended up removing the billet rings around the vents, the square box in the middle of the vents is the GPS antenna for the Speedometer, I think the Twister logo will be coming off the glove box.

RCC

12-14-2014, 09:58 AM

cool build tasteful mods & getting close love the push buttons and EFI
whats up with shifter on a 727 ?

76orangewagon

12-14-2014, 01:08 PM

cool build tasteful mods & getting close love the push buttons and EFI
whats up with shifter on a 727 ?

Thanks, I always like the lightning rod shifter and when I ran across Kilduff shifters I was hooked, I know its not a Mopar thing and It's very Non-traditional and that's why I wanted it.

Ketzer

12-15-2014, 07:28 AM

Thanks, I always like the lightning rod shifter and when I ran across Kilduff shifters I was hooked, I know its not a Mopar thing and It's very Non-traditional and that's why I wanted it.

That is what this hobby is all about.

Jeff-

WSSix

12-15-2014, 07:54 AM

Agreed! I love seeing Lightning Rod shifters. The 84 Hurst Olds was so cool since it used those shifters.

76orangewagon

12-18-2014, 05:59 PM

I really never liked the size of the front brake calipers (too small) so I decided to upgrade to six piston, there 9.5" compared to 7". Now I'm happy. Better pic to follow.

76orangewagon

12-21-2014, 02:53 PM

I finally got the hood and radiator cover today....progress, now I can start with the custom air cleaner cover.

76orangewagon

02-15-2015, 03:42 PM

It's been a few month's since I updated ....I've been pluggin' away on the wiring, there is finally light at the end of the tunnel. Also I've got the center console mounting worked out, I have to make another shifter plate to tighten up the gaps.

76orangewagon

02-27-2015, 04:35 PM

I picked up the Radiator from the local Radiator shop and then painted it with Eastwood Satin Radiator paint and assembled everything hopefully for the last time and bolted it in.
I like the finish and overall look especially with the Black hose ends. I also picked up a set of Hi-lo horns and decided to mount behind the left headlight bucket since like everything else I wanted them hidden...mission accomplished. Enjoy

onelapduster

02-28-2015, 02:58 PM

Ill send you my 75 Duster once your finished. Excellent work on this car. Long way from when you were thinking about selling it. Almost there!

76orangewagon

02-28-2015, 03:39 PM

Ill send you my 75 Duster once your finished. Excellent work on this car. Long way from when you were thinking about selling it. Almost there!

Thanks for the compliment but I'm done for a while after this one get done...actually one of my Buddies asked me the other day "what's next" I told him the only car I would build would be my old 71"Cuda if I could get it back...maybe he'd want to trade if I pulled up in his driveway once the Duster is done .

Bakaruda

03-01-2015, 07:14 AM

Very nice build.

76orangewagon

03-01-2015, 01:08 PM

I got some more parts back from my Painter.....Deck lid with integrated spoiler, Flush side Marker lights, Package shelf, Grille/latch support, Side mirrors and Fuel door. Everything turned out nice, the side markers are nice and flush to the fenders and quarters.

76orangewagon

03-01-2015, 01:10 PM

Just a reminder of what was done to the Grille support..I filled the Gaps in the stock sheet metal for a cleaner look against the Radiator cover. Most people, especially non Lateral G members following along won't ever notice.

76orangewagon

03-01-2015, 01:11 PM

Very nice build.

Thanks I appreciate that.

Evan Iroc-Z

03-02-2015, 07:53 AM

Incredible build. Not that I need to say it, but keep up the great work.

76orangewagon

03-02-2015, 01:25 PM

Incredible build. Not that I need to say it, but keep up the great work.

Thanks for the compliment...I'll keep pluggin' along week after week, someday It will be done.

Motormouth

03-02-2015, 08:27 PM

Very nice work! Lookin good!
:thumbsup:

76orangewagon

03-03-2015, 01:35 PM

Very nice work! Lookin good!
:thumbsup:

Thanks...I hope to have some more progress pictures to post after the weekend

76orangewagon

03-07-2015, 04:12 PM

Not the most exciting pictures, but it's progress and it shows a few more of the Modifications finally completed. Hagan's Oval fuel door and Flush oval LED marker lights...man these things are bright even in the afternoon .

onelapduster

03-07-2015, 05:16 PM

Looking good, little bit at a time!

76orangewagon

03-07-2015, 07:06 PM

Looking good, little bit at a time!

Thanks..I hate to admit that this took me most of the day to accomplish what you see in the pictures.

76orangewagon

03-21-2015, 03:30 PM

Here's a few more pictures of the progress...looks like the console is finally ready for some paint.

Tincup

03-21-2015, 09:07 PM

I love that console.....

dukeboy_318

04-27-2015, 07:22 AM

Looks wicked. Can't wait to see videos of it up and driving. I'm following closely as I'm building a Dart PT myself. Your Fab skills are amazing.

DavidBoren

04-27-2015, 02:02 PM

Updates?

Beautiful car, love what you're doing with it.

76orangewagon

07-11-2015, 06:05 PM

Here's a few update pictures...doesn't really have a Pro-Touring stance, looks a little more toward the Pro Street look but when your tires are 29" tall I guess you'll have that. I have to get lighter springs for the rear and lower it 1" then see what I think. I finally got the bumpers back from paint but really need to start aligning my body panels.

76orangewagon

07-20-2015, 08:06 AM

Had the back glass tinted (50%) and installed along with the front (factory tint) also installed the radiator after a pressure check. Started making the door panels, not really sure of the design yet. Sorry for the crappy cell phone pics...I didn't have my camera near by.

91S10ProStreet

07-20-2015, 08:08 AM

NIce!! Love the Kilduffs!!! Plan on using them in my project too,looks really good... Fellow MOPAR lover as well!!!

76orangewagon

07-20-2015, 01:18 PM

NIce!! Love the Kilduffs!!! Plan on using them in my project too,looks really good... Fellow MOPAR lover as well!!!
Thanks..I think they will draw a lot of attention and curiousity, I can already hear it now " He must have a GM transmission to run those Lightning Rods". Now the big question Red or Black shifter Knobs ?

91S10ProStreet

07-21-2015, 11:31 AM

My opinion is black knobs!!! I wouldnt thnk GM trans, I would think Lenco!!!

76orangewagon

07-22-2015, 07:09 AM

My opinion is black knobs!!! I wouldnt thnk GM trans, I would think Lenco!!!

I think Lenco also, but you know there are those Car Show "Experts" out there that think a Mopar with 383 badges means it has a Chevy motor in it or that a Plymouth Duster is actually a Chevrolet Nova......those are the folks I'm referring to.

91S10ProStreet

07-22-2015, 07:25 AM

I think Lenco also, but you know there are those Car Show "Experts" out there that think a Mopar with 383 badges means it has a Chevy motor in it or that a Plymouth Duster is actually a Chevrolet Nova......those are the folks I'm referring to.

LOL!!! I hear ya!!! I had a 73 AMC Javelin people swore it was a 71-73 Mustang!!! Good looking car though bro!!!

waynieZ

07-22-2015, 09:26 AM

Beautiful job on the car! That console came out Sweet!! I think Red on the shift knobs let them ask away! What kills me is when they argue that you don't know what car you have because they are so certain they know better.

Nice work.

76orangewagon

08-15-2016, 06:08 PM

The Duster finally made its initial showing at the 2016 Mopar Nationals. I swapped out the Billet Specialities wheels for Bonspeed Huntington powder coated wheels. Hope you enjoy the pics.

GregWeld

08-15-2016, 06:14 PM

Love the final product! Just WOW!

One thing ------ That upper radiator hose WILL crack your aluminum radiator. Those hoses are usually too stiff - and transfer the torquing motion to the weakest point.

76orangewagon

08-15-2016, 06:52 PM

I wondered about that but hopefully since I have a motor plate with poly bushings, the motor wont move much if at all.

GregWeld

08-15-2016, 06:54 PM

Well Done!!!!

68Cuda

08-15-2016, 07:49 PM

The Duster finally made its initial showing at the 2016 Mopar Nationals. I swapped out the Billet Specialities wheels for Bonspeed Huntington powder coated wheels. Hope you enjoy the pics.

Looks good Ross. Enjoy driving it!

76orangewagon

08-16-2016, 04:39 PM

Looks good Ross. Enjoy driving it!

Thanks Michael,
It's been a blast so far.

69charger440

08-16-2016, 04:49 PM

Looks amazing!

76orangewagon

08-16-2016, 06:53 PM

Looks amazing!

Thanks..I appreciate that.

waynieZ

08-16-2016, 08:14 PM

Beautiful! You did an awesome job. I love it!! It looks so Clean and yes "SINISTER" ! I love the plate.

WSSix

08-17-2016, 09:03 AM

Congrats on finishing the car. Love the final product. Have fun driving and showing it.

76orangewagon

08-17-2016, 01:41 PM

Beautiful! You did an awesome job. I love it!! It looks so Clean and yes "SINISTER" ! I love the plate.

Thanks, I must admit it was a bigger hit at the Mopar Nationals than I thought. I guess I was just use to seeing it in the garage dusty and dirty all the time but it really shined up nice for the show. I had Mopar Collectors Guide and Mopar Action photograph the car at the same time on Friday AM, now we will see which one gets it to publication first. The Sinister license plate just seem to fit the car.

Congrats on finishing the car. Love the final product. Have fun driving and showing it.

Thanks, I still have some small details to work on, like Ceramic coating the tailpipes and getting a little stiffer coilover springs for the rear but nothing that wont stop it from hitting the streets before winter hits.

waynieZ

08-17-2016, 05:43 PM

What coating did you use on the headers?

76orangewagon

08-18-2016, 02:03 PM

What coating did you use on the headers?

I believe it is Cerma Chrome. It was applied by New Image Powder Coating in Struthers, Ohio back in 2012. After the engine dyno tuning they lost their shiny finish close to the block and took on a dull grey. I have planned to remove them over the winter and get them re-coated, maybe they have a uniformed grey that would go with my engine compartment better. If not I will get them shiny again like the rest of the exhaust.