Project Nighthawk 1969 Camaro - Ground up rebuild [Archive]

Amituk

04-24-2012, 06:55 AM

http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/concept.png

http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/0.concept/rear.jpg

I have loved muscle cars since I was a kid. As an adult, watching the masters like Chip foose and his counterparts on countless car shows on sky tv strengthened that love even more. I knew some day, I would build the car of my dreams, and that day is finally here.

I am going to build a car that embodies everything I love about motoring. Retro style, Lots of usable power, and as much 21st century auto tech. as I can get in. I want a retro bruiser with all the mod cons.

The current plan is, 600hp LS3 motor,
Ridetech (http://www.ridetech.com/) full air Suspension upgrades and sway bars managed by Accuair ride management
Rotiform (http://www.rotiform.com/)
modern design red leather interior
modern lighting
digital computer controlled dash and electronics
lots of custom gizmos and gadgets

Paint wise I am thing of a dark but heavily metalic grey. Almost like shadow chrome you get on some wheels.
Bespoke body mods including front valance, rear diffuser, side skirts and rear gill.
Lots of carbon trim

The majority of the build work will be taken care off by the excellent Retro Power (http://www.retropower.co.uk)

This build thread will serve as summary of the build. For full blow by blow updates and pictures, follow the build on
the project facebook page http://www.facebook.com/ProjectNighthawk
and on Twitter here https://twitter.com/#!/ProjNighthawk

Amituk

04-24-2012, 06:55 AM

Phase one was to come up with some designs. Mike Gillett did an excellent job of turning my ramblings into renders.

http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/0.concept/skirts.png

http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/0.concept/valance.png

http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/0.concept/rear.jpg

more designs Design concepts and rendering (http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.283406758405769.68551.283403115072800&type=3&l=1ca38c1318)

Next, I needed a car to base the build on. I found a beautiful 69 camaro SS clone in hugger orange that had already had some resto work in the past, but you guys convinced me it was too good/original to base the build on, so that was promptly sold and replaced with this rotter off a shell.

Unfortunately I had to buy the shell blind, but the seller assured me it was a perfect base car due to my extensive plans and that structurally it was sound
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/1.basecar/basecar(01).jpg

http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/1.basecar/basecar(02).jpg

http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/1.basecar/basecar(04).jpg

http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/1.basecar/basecar(06).jpg

see the full gallery of base car (http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.283422345070877.68558.283403115072800&type=3&l=8321edbaa3) pics

Amituk

04-24-2012, 06:56 AM

The car was delivered straight to Retro Power (http://www.retropower.co.uk) from the seller.

I had heard lots about the abilities of Callum and Nat at retro power, and had read countless forum posts and mag articles about their previous builds.

Seeing their metal work skills on some of their previous projects, and their very reasonable costs and working practices made them a winner.

The boys got straight to work tearing the car apart ready for blasting, which is when we found out, things werent as rosey as the first seemed.

http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/2.blasting/1.Prepforblast/prepforblast(01).jpg

http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/2.blasting/1.Prepforblast/prepforblast(02).jpg

http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/2.blasting/1.Prepforblast/prepforblast(13).jpg

http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/2.blasting/1.Prepforblast/prepforblast(26).jpg

Full gallery of the car pre blasting (http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.283423631737415.68560.283403115072800&type=3&l=03aa299f9d)

After that, there wasnt much car left for blasting! but we had come too far now to turn back so on it went for media blasting and zinc priming

http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/2.blasting/2.postblast/postblast(01).jpg

http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/2.blasting/2.postblast/postblast(08).jpg

http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/2.blasting/2.postblast/postblast(24).jpg

http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/2.blasting/2.postblast/postblast(07).jpg

Full gallery of blasted car (http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.283423631737415.68560.283403115072800&type=3&l=03aa299f9d)

FETorino

04-24-2012, 07:47 AM

Welcome

A whole new meaning to "perfect bas car":thumbsup: You are braver than I.

Al Moreno

04-24-2012, 07:58 AM

Nice project! Can't wait to see more :thumbsup:

DOOM

04-24-2012, 10:38 AM

Ah yes mine was rust free to!

GoolsbyCustoms

04-24-2012, 11:08 AM

Looks like some cool ideas in the works ....and a lot of metal work in the future, Welcome aboard

badmatt

04-24-2012, 03:25 PM

MMMMMMMM BLQ's

Should be an awesome project! Good luck!

Matt

waynieZ

04-24-2012, 04:24 PM

Nice renderings. Don't worry about whats left you were going to change all that anyway. lol Sounds like it will be a great car when your done.

Amituk

04-25-2012, 12:51 AM

Thanks guys.

Doom, WOW.. but having said that, I am sure mine will look like that too once we break out the can opener and get chopping.

be sure to like the face book page here http://www.facebook.com/ProjectNighthawk

or follow the project on @projNighthawk (https://twitter.com/#!/ProjNighthawk) for the full blow by blow updates

Amituk

07-03-2012, 09:01 AM

small project Update.

thanks to auto metal direct I have almost an entire camaro in a box on its way by boat to me.

Should be here by late july then the fun can begin

If you ever wondered what a camaro kit looks like in a box.. here it is :D

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/282758_331262923620152_1691423563_n.jpg

Amit

syborg tt

07-31-2012, 10:33 AM

Subscribed - looking forward to watching this one

Amituk

08-03-2012, 06:14 AM

After what feels like for ever, the parts have finally arrived at retro power HQ

Again big thanks to Auto Metals Direct for helping us out with the panels. Not easy to come by in the UK

Big truck full of camaro
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/0.parts/parts(01).jpg

Flat pack camaro
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/0.parts/parts(02).jpg

Next step are to formulate a plan and start gluing all this together.

Dont forget to like the facebook page below or follow us on Twitter for blow by blow updates.

Summaries will be posted up in this thread

Ron in SoCal

08-03-2012, 06:53 AM

^ very cool pic!

Twittter? Really? Does your builder move that fast? :wow: I thought this is where you post project updates! :lateral:

DOOM

08-03-2012, 07:01 AM

Cool ...... Just get ready for alot of foul language..:D I get the chills just looking at that stuff!!!

Amituk

08-03-2012, 09:21 AM

lol the twitter account is mine.

Its not all project related.. other cool projects or pics I have found.. parts I am considering for the build etc..

The build thread, I will update with regular summaries of where we are at.

Twitter and facebook are for the blow by blow updates.

Amit

Rybar

08-03-2012, 11:09 AM

That last pic is awesome, reminds me of opening a plastic model kit for a 69 Camaro :lol:

89 RS

08-03-2012, 10:41 PM

That's going to be an awesome ride. I like how your going with gold colored wheels, look forward to seeing more. :thumbsup:

waynieZ

08-04-2012, 08:04 PM

Wow it ought to really handle being that low to the ground!

Amituk

08-06-2012, 03:56 AM

Wow it ought to really handle being that low to the ground!

Lol isnt the old phrase "low and steady wins the race"

Maybe I should scrap the build plan and turn it into a sculpture. Get my fab shop to knock up a sprue frame out of tube

syborg tt

08-31-2012, 10:24 AM

Can't wait to see more of this build.

ps - great Facebook page

Amituk

09-01-2012, 05:21 AM

Thanks

We are very close to all out kick off

Have decided to have a custom chassis built, so retro power are trying to source a chassis table.

Jason at GMR will also be building the rear end soon so updates will start flowing thick and fast.

Also checkout the mood board here for a idea of what's to come

http://m.pinterest.com/amitdesai1978/project-nighthawk-inspiration/

srh3trinity

09-01-2012, 08:04 AM

So the car is on twitter, facebook, and lat-g. You need to get it on foursquare and google plus and then it will be the most socially networked car out there.
That being said, the wheel choice is awesome. Looking forward to the build and the newsfeed updates.

Amituk

09-02-2012, 02:13 AM

It's every where. The original idea was to get a lot more social feedback on the direction of the build and get the community to help shape the project.

I want to runs design comps for areas of the car but need more people on board to make sure I get decent designs lol

Still early days yet.

Amituk

09-18-2012, 03:13 AM

Its update time.

I decided the ultimate camro wouldnt really be the ultimate camaro on the stock subframe and stock rear end.

So after discussions with RetroPower, we have decided to build a complete chassis from box steel. Retropower have tracked down a chassis bed, and work starts 24th Sept :)

In the mean time, I have asked Jason at theGMR (http://thegmr.com/) to start work on the rear end.

I chose GMR because after talking to him for 5mins, I realised he knows his rear ends! He was a font of knowledge and information

So this is what we decided to build

a 9" full floater made up of

Chromoly 325inch series housing with strengthening trusses
GMR PT-R Aluminium rear hubs with tapered bearings - These are works of art!
Strange Engineering 35spline Hytuf Axels
Strange Engineering HD Aluminium 3.7 third member with chromoly yoke
Strange Engineering S-track Diff.

I decided to go with strange engineering for the complete third member after doing a lot of research on how they have been performing on road and track.

With the top quality components I have gone with, this rear end will be capable of taking as much power as I can throw at it, and leave me headroom for future upgrades.

This rear end should be much lighter than stock, and MUCH stronger. I would of loved to have gone for the titanium housing, but I have to draw the line somewhere and the what I have speced above far exceeds the needs of this project.

Onto the build

Jason starts with a chromolly housing built in the USA from US sourced steel. Note the large hole. This is not a bird feeder, but actually an oversized oil filler/teeth inspection window

http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/1.rearend/rearend(01).jpg

Axel tubes welded on

http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/1.rearend/rearend(02).jpg

Fully seemed welded. Even the parts that will be hidden

http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/1.rearend/rearend(03).jpg

Trusses tacked in place. No axel flex here!

http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/1.rearend/rearend(04).jpg

Going to town on the welding

http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/1.rearend/rearend(06).jpg

Thats all for now, more to follow.

Keep an eye on the pic album here Rear end build Album (https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.359443710802073.85153.283403115072800&type=3), if you cant wait for updates

paydirt

09-18-2012, 01:26 PM

awesome progress.

Amituk

09-19-2012, 03:57 AM

I promised updates would start coming thick and fast ;)

I will let the pics do the talking

http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/1.rearend/rearend(07).jpg

http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/1.rearend/rearend(08).jpg

http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/1.rearend/rearend(09).jpg

http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/1.rearend/rearend(10).jpg

Thats the central housing complete, next steps, axel snouts and hubs

Amit

davin24

09-19-2012, 09:00 PM

wow look at that tap

JasonElvisHeard

09-20-2012, 10:03 AM

wow look at that tap

That is a 2.5" tap for the filler bung post welding. We use it to clean up the threads, sometimes the heat can move the material just enough to make the filler a real pain to screw in. With this $$$ tap we can chase the threads and now we know the filler is going to be smooth as butter when the end user has his hands on the housing.

jason

Amituk

09-20-2012, 10:16 PM

I like butter :)

Can wait to see this thing in the flesh.

There is nothing better than precision engineering and there is definitely a lot of that in the next batch of pictures!

Amituk

09-21-2012, 07:29 AM

More updates from Jason at theGMR

Jason uses high tech custom designed tooling to ensure he can draw a straight line around the tube. No wonky cuts here!
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/1.rearend/rearend_11.jpg

Holes drilled to allow the snout to be plug welded to the axel tubes for final fit
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/1.rearend/rearend_12.jpg

More custom designed tooling from GMR to make sure centre section bolt holes are in exactly the right place
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/1.rearend/rearend_13.jpg

http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/1.rearend/rearend_14.jpg

Another jig used to ensure perfect alignment for the axel snouts. A precision ground alignment bar that spans the entire length of the housing both snouts are set at the same time, making them very straight to each other. Dont want to be driving in circles!
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/1.rearend/rearend_15.jpg

Tacked in place for now
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/1.rearend/rearend_16.jpg

http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/1.rearend/rearend_17.jpg

Jason is cleary actually a women as he is able to tap a thread, bolt in the drain plug and take a picture at the same time
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/1.rearend/rearend_18.jpg

The completed GM9 Chromoloy bare housing, ready for suspension and brake mounts of your choice
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/1.rearend/rearend_19.jpg

http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/1.rearend/rearend_20.jpg

http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/1.rearend/rearend_21.jpg

As you can see, light as a feather. With the Motto “Lighter – Stronger – Faster” the gmr products are designed accordingly and this GMR9-325 housing is no exception. The GMR9-325 housing with 3.25" housing tubes, 3/8" faceplate, large filler cap, and rear truss section is only 1 pound more then a Currie F9 with 3" tubes and NO TRUSS installed! Now, that is a serious weight – strength ratio!
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/1.rearend/rearend_22.jpg

Amituk

09-21-2012, 11:36 AM

Will be going to vist retropower tomorrow to discuss the custom chassis build.

Lots of exciting updates to come

Amit

Rick D

09-21-2012, 12:39 PM

Looking good Amit, did you ever lock down the engine plans?? I know you said you were going to run a ls9?

Amituk

09-21-2012, 12:45 PM

Nothing for certain just yet.

Still favouring the ls9!

Was hoping chris@fesler would drop me a mail with a few options, but still waiting to hear from him.

Still considering a supercharged ls7 as an alternative. Maybe a Maast black series. Problem is I am not up on my muscle cars so don't really know what's out there.. Pros/cons etc

This is my first muscle car build.

Previously been a retro Vw guy

Rick D

09-21-2012, 12:49 PM

This is my first muscle car build.

Previously been a retro Vw guy

WOW that's a hell of a jump VW's to Camaro!! :thumbsup:

Amituk

09-21-2012, 12:57 PM

Lol tell me about it!

I have spent more on the rear end of this car than I did on the entire build of my mk1 rabbit show car

Rybar

09-21-2012, 02:38 PM

Amituk

09-21-2012, 02:39 PM

Thanks man.

Will go take a look

Amituk

09-21-2012, 11:11 PM

Wow that is a nice looking motor. One to add to the list for sure!

canrc

09-22-2012, 02:10 AM

I've seen and heard this motor in person and it sounds unreal, it's Raj's motor (canrc) it's from Wegner and I think is 825hp if I am correct. I don't know the specs but may be an alternative to an LS9 as far as blown LS motors.

http://www.lateral-g.net/forums/showpost.php4?p=282060&postcount=19

Wow that is a nice looking motor. One to add to the list for sure!
Love your build Amit!!

Thanks Ryan -- I know I should post this in the feedback section but not only did Wegner deliver more than expected on my motor there customer service is top notch! I have been dealing with Casey Wegner the last few days and I am glad I went with them, great group of guys and you will not regret going with them and they are working on some new stuff that is insane!

Amituk

09-22-2012, 02:25 AM

Thanks raj.

Will drop em a line and see what they can offer

Amituk

09-26-2012, 11:45 PM

And we continue, but the rear end is in sight ;) see what i did there

Hardcore tapered bearings and crush tube live inside the hub. The crush tube is the exact size to ensure you cant over tighten the hub nut allowing the hub housing to spin freely
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/1.rearend/rearend_23.jpg

Billet hub housing bolted in place with brake rotor adapters
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/1.rearend/rearend_24.jpg

Jason expertly measures the axel lengths so we can get them ordered from Strange Engineering
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/1.rearend/rearend_25.jpg

Next up, the great Strange Engineering pro HD aluminium housing, complete with chromoly yoke, Strange S-trac diff, and 3.7 gearset.
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/1.rearend/rearend_26.jpg

These babies have more bite than jaws!
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/1.rearend/rearend_27.jpg

Complete third member bolted in place
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/1.rearend/rearend_28.jpg

finally the fully assembled rear end (minus the shafts)
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/1.rearend/rearend_29.jpg

http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/1.rearend/rearend_30.jpg

Next stage, install the gun drilled hy-tuf 35 spline axles from strange, and then we move onto the brakes.

Amituk

10-16-2012, 08:44 AM

So we have an update from retropower on the body rebuild.

Stu at retropower has started cutting out the wroten panels and is replacing them with GM Approved repair panels provided by AutoMetalsDirect.

As you will see throughout the build, these panels are as good as OEM.

First up, Stu gets the shell mounted on the chassis jig and tackles the front cowl area

As always, the full public album is available here The Body Rebuild (https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.369897753090002.88167.283403115072800&type=1&l=920d70d844)

But here is a preview.

The shell is mounted to the chassis table to maintain its shape once most of its cut out :|
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/3.bodyrebuild/bodyrebuild02.jpg

Stu goes wild with the cutting gear. We are building a custom permiter chassis which means custom floor pans and trans tunnnel etc.. so not a lot worth keeping. This will also allows us a 40mm body drop ;) The complete bulkhead and cowl area is chopped out ready for replacement.
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/3.bodyrebuild/bodyrebuild09.jpg

The excellent AMD repair sections are spot welded back in place
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/3.bodyrebuild/bodyrebuild14.jpg

http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/3.bodyrebuild/bodyrebuild17.jpg

Coming together in OEM form. Later in the project, this area will be cleaned up with all the holes removed, and a nice clean firewall fabbed with simple bead lines rolled in for strength. No need for brake servo or wiper motor hole as I have some trick stuff up my sleve for these :)
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/3.bodyrebuild/bodyrebuild18.jpg

The front section all complete
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/3.bodyrebuild/bodyrebuild22.jpg

Stu then unpicks the roof skin ready for the next phase of repairs which will start in a couple of weeks
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/3.bodyrebuild/bodyrebuild24.jpg

Enjoy, and be sure to check out the full gallery of pics here The Body Rebuild (https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.369897753090002.88167.283403115072800&type=1&l=920d70d844)

waynieZ

10-16-2012, 10:17 AM

Nice build its going to be awesome.

Amituk

10-17-2012, 08:03 AM

Thanks.

Would be great to hear some feedback from some more experienced builders on this project.

This is my first muscle car build so constantly learning as I go

Amit

xtreme

10-18-2012, 04:20 PM

looks great! Keep it up!

Rybar

10-18-2012, 04:33 PM

I think your doing a pretty damn good job myself. :thumbsup:

cashed

10-19-2012, 05:46 AM

Great looking build! Looking forward to watching it come together.

Amituk

10-19-2012, 06:37 AM

Cool thanks guys..

do pipe in if there is anything I am doing wrong or can be done better ;)

work on the body shell will slow down now for a couple of weeks as retropower have to do some work other customer cars.

probably a good thing as I am running out of money already lol

need to find me a rich sheikh backer!

GMR are in the process of fitting the brakes to the rear axle, and building the front uprights. I have seen sneak peaks and they look awesome. Pics to follow soon

Amituk

11-13-2012, 12:04 PM

And onto the next thrilling installment in the rebuild saga.

This week, we have moved onto the rear end.

The Full picture set of the story so far can be found here The Body Rebuild Continues (https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.369897753090002.88167.283403115072800&type=1&l=920d70d844)

First of all, we strip her back to the core structure. As you can see, not much original metal is staying
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/3.bodyrebuild/bodyrebuild26.jpg

The excellent rear panel from AMD is then tacked in place.
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/3.bodyrebuild/bodyrebuild27.jpg

To ensure alignment, the outer panels were temporarily refitted.
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/3.bodyrebuild/bodyrebuild28.jpg

Then they were removed so the repair work could continue. The wheels tubs were also removed to be replaced by some nice reworked AMD tubs
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/3.bodyrebuild/bodyrebuild37.jpg

The outer skin of the pillar support rib wasnt looking too great
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/3.bodyrebuild/bodyrebuild38.jpg

so it was cut out
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/3.bodyrebuild/bodyrebuild47.jpg

a repair section was fabbed
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/3.bodyrebuild/bodyrebuild43.jpg

and welded back in good as new
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/3.bodyrebuild/bodyrebuild48.jpg

New wheels tub fitted, after some minor rework to maximize clearance
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/3.bodyrebuild/bodyrebuild45.jpg

more rot - before
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/3.bodyrebuild/bodyrebuild50.jpg

during
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/3.bodyrebuild/bodyrebuild51.jpg

and as after. You would never know it was there. Great repair skill from Stu @retropower
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/3.bodyrebuild/bodyrebuild52.jpg

Starting to look like a car again, but still a long way to go. Again outer panels still temporarily fitted to test alignment.
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/3.bodyrebuild/bodyrebuild59.jpg

Next installment, we start on the left hand side, and I should have some updates on the front struts

T_Raven

11-20-2012, 01:04 PM

Looking good so far. Digging that axle. I'm currently planning to use the GMR floater and center section. Not sure what housing yet though.

Amituk

11-20-2012, 01:07 PM

I went for the chromoly for its strength to weight ratio and because it looked cool :)

In reality, the modified strange engineering case is good enough for most implementations.

Good choice on gmr though.

Amituk

12-07-2012, 01:18 PM

The body rebuild continues!

I have just posted another 40+ step by step pictures to my public gallery here

The Body Rebuild (https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.369897753090002.88167.283403115072800&type=1&l=920d70d844)

but a few highlights for the thread

This rear parcel tray panel isnt looking so hot
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/3.bodyrebuild/bodyrebuild68.jpg

So lets chop it all out
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/3.bodyrebuild/bodyrebuild76.jpg

In with the new inner panel
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/3.bodyrebuild/bodyrebuild80.jpg

and the outer panel
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/3.bodyrebuild/bodyrebuild83.jpg

Outer quater can then be spot welded in place.
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/3.bodyrebuild/bodyrebuild92.jpg

Much better. As you can see, fittment on these repro AMD panels is excellent!
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/3.bodyrebuild/bodyrebuild89.jpg

Panel gaps are bad either out of the box! These will be tightend latetr
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/3.bodyrebuild/bodyrebuild91.jpg

Next the roof support was blasted
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/3.bodyrebuild/bodyrebuild95.jpg

and painted
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/3.bodyrebuild/bodyrebuild97.jpg

And thats it for the body repair so far. Next will be the other side, plus the roof skin.

Then the upgrades can start :)

Amituk

12-07-2012, 01:19 PM

In the mean time, Jason from the GMR finshed of the rear end :) by fitting the brakes

The Full gallery is here Rear end build Album (https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.359443710802073.85153.283403115072800&type=3)

Sexy red wilwood stoppers will look lovely against the black discs and gold wheels
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/1.rearend/rearend_31.jpg

Jason uses his nogin and an air line to perfectly locate the caliper braket before welding
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/1.rearend/rearend_32.jpg

for the parking brake, I decided to use a GMR spot caliper
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/1.rearend/rearend_34.jpg

and clamped in place with a single bolt in the mech to locate
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/1.rearend/rearend_35.jpg

and finaly, my xmas present ready to ship :)
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/1.rearend/rearend_36.jpg

In other news, I have found a new designer to continue the good work Mike Gillet started.
Unfortunetly Mike doesnt have the time to take the project further so victor from Victor Fulton Designs has stepped in to get the ideas out of my head and onto paper.

Here is a sneak peak from Victor.
https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/252222_389593501120427_57190870_n.jpg

This is by no means the final render, just victor showing off.

Please check out his facebook page here Victor Fulton Designs (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Victor-Fulton-Designs/425670274147650.) And drop him a line if you need any design work. I is offering an incredible deal for his first 5 customers

Thats all folks.. unitl next time.

As always I would love to hear your feedback/comments

and please join in the banter on facebook and tell your friends :)

Rybar

12-07-2012, 02:43 PM

Man that rear end looks killer, and so does the rendering. What are the wheels and specs you are going with again?

Amituk

12-07-2012, 03:30 PM

Thanks man.

The wheels are rotiform blq

8x18 front and 10x18 rear

Pic of wheels here http://m.pinterest.com/pin/121597258659255149/

On my iPhone so can't inline post

Rybar

12-07-2012, 03:34 PM

Thanks man.

The wheels are rotiform blq

8x18 front and 10x18 rear

Pic of wheels here http://m.pinterest.com/pin/121597258659255149/

On my iPhone so can't inline post

http://media-cache-ec5.pinterest.com/upload/121597258659255149_rMrjYZBp_f.jpg

Thoose look pretty sweet, seems like your putting alot of work into this car and only a 10" wide rear wheel? Might as well mini-tub while your there. :unibrow:

Amituk

12-07-2012, 03:37 PM

I'm not sure if I like 12s on the rear.

From the rear on view, the look too close together.

Having said that, the wheel tubs have been massaged to take a wider wheel if I so decide.

Will post a pic of that at some point

Amituk

12-07-2012, 03:38 PM

Besides ferraris manage with 10" rear wheels ;)

Amituk

12-08-2012, 01:27 AM

Any comments on any of the work so far guys?

Anything I should be doing that I haven't?

cencalc6

12-08-2012, 06:21 AM

Any comments on any of the work so far guys?

Anything I should be doing that I haven't?

Not at all! You are doing a nice job on this build :thumbsup:

btw! That's one bada$$ rear setup

Amituk

12-08-2012, 06:23 AM

Lol maybe I need to fuk something up lol. This thread seems to be a little one sided.

Ketzer

12-09-2012, 06:04 AM

Lol maybe I need to fuk something up lol. This thread seems to be a little one sided.

No, there are already plenty of those threads....

Jeff-

Amituk

12-09-2012, 06:19 AM

Lol.

I guess it's just basic repair atm. The fun stuff is yet to come

syborg tt

12-09-2012, 06:32 PM

Thanks.

Would be great to hear some feedback from some more experienced builders on this project.

This is my first muscle car build so constantly learning as I go

Amit

Very impressive build.

What are your plans for the car ? Is it going to be a track car ? If so I would do as few special body mods as possible. Items like front spoilers can be made in metal the repoped in fiberglass or carbon fiber. That way your not spending a fortune to repair any track damage and the car can quickly return to the track.

Amituk

12-09-2012, 09:51 PM

It's mainly going to be a technology show case car but I won't be scared of taking it round the track.

The spoilers etc will be made from composites.

Amit

kmdracer

12-10-2012, 04:41 AM

Subbing in to follow along. Love the work so far!

InfernalVortex

12-10-2012, 05:07 AM

http://media-cache-ec5.pinterest.com/upload/121597258659255149_rMrjYZBp_f.jpg

Thoose look pretty sweet, seems like your putting alot of work into this car and only a 10" wide rear wheel? Might as well mini-tub while your there. :unibrow:

Those are more of those cookie cutter "made in the usa" wheels that are actually made in China and assembled here. Theres a bazillion Miami and California wheel importers making wheels like that and none are JWL or TUV approved. Be careful with those and inspect them for cracks regularly if you use them.

Some of the companies known to be a part of this are iForged, ADV.1, Cor, rotiform, Strasse Forged, 360 Forged, Sevas, New gen (yes, those too) etc. If you look through all their portfolios you will see the same wheels over and over. Rotiform is actually pretty unique, but you can tell they use the same wheel blanks and construction methods as all the other companies. Kind of a shame because tehyre very nice looking.

This is a COR ("Made in the USA") wheel that failed on a track car:

http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l556/Taylor_Crandall/Cor%20Post/i-bvRNZD5-XL.jpg

http://importgenius.com/importers/cor-llc

They import "rim components" from China, despite all their Made in the USA chest beating.

Anyway, back to rotiform, just in case you think Im making things up to stir the pot:

http://importgenius.com/importers/rotiform-llc

Shipper:
SHANDONG CHIRON AUTO PART CO.,LTD
HIGH-NEW TECH ZONE,DONGYIN CITY,SHA DONGYING,,CN 0086531-67808999

Consignee:
ROTIFORM,LLC
6382 INDUSTRY,WAY WESTMINSTER,CA926 WESTMINSTER,CA,92683,US 714372-362

Port of Loading
Ching Tao

Port of Discharge
Long Beach, California

Declaration of Goods
ALLOY WHEELS

Anyway, Im not saying they're bad wheels, but Im saying they're not tested to any kind of standard at all. Just keep an eye on them if you use them for any kind of track use, and dont count on any of those companies taking care of you if something happens. Cor changed their warranty after their infamous failure at a track day (on street tires).

http://jalopnik.com/cor-wheels/

Some very shifty things going on.

Heres some ADV.1 wheels with some really questionable standards:
http://www.m3post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=717258

Look through all those companies' wheels and you'll start noticing all the similarities. They all come from the same Chinese plant... the same 2 or 3 assembly methods, and looks like most come from the same 2 or 3 blank designs iwth the same "concave"ness to them.

http://rotiform.com/images/products/3pc_concave_blq_19.jpg
http://i232.photobucket.com/albums/ee213/InfernalVortex/webshare/crapwheel1.jpg
http://i232.photobucket.com/albums/ee213/InfernalVortex/webshare/crapwheel4.jpg
http://www.adv1wheels.com/adv1wheels/wheelcollection/ADV10DC.php

Payton King

12-10-2012, 07:00 AM

Amituk

12-10-2012, 07:13 AM

Thanks for the comment.

I spoke to the guys at the shop and they told me they are going to mini tub it later in the build when they create the custom chassis rails.

In the mean time, what they have done is beat the inside of the outer tub out so that its closer to the outer quarter.

This will allow me to run the wheels nicely tucked with less chance of rubbing.

So I get best of both worlds :)

And 3 piece wheels means I have some flexibility changing the widths too.

Amit

Amituk

12-10-2012, 07:17 AM

Those are more of those cookie cutter "made in the usa" wheels that are actually made in China and assembled here. Theres a bazillion Miami and California wheel importers making wheels like that and none are JWL or TUV approved. Be careful with those and inspect them for cracks regularly if you use them.

Some of the companies known to be a part of this are iForged, ADV.1, Cor, rotiform, Strasse Forged, 360 Forged, Sevas, New gen (yes, those too) etc. If you look through all their portfolios you will see the same wheels over and over. Rotiform is actually pretty unique, but you can tell they use the same wheel blanks and construction methods as all the other companies. Kind of a shame because tehyre very nice looking.

Thanks for the heads up. I didnt know this was the case! I will certainly raise it with rotiform.

Amituk

12-10-2012, 07:44 AM

syborg tt

12-10-2012, 08:16 AM

Thanks.

Take this from someone who has been there and done that...mini tub your car while you are there. I did not the first time I did my car and I had to go back to do it...at a very large cost. Pictures are different than real life and the 335 rear do not look to large. Tub it for 335's even if you are not going to run them. If you ever sell, I would be the buyer will want 335's on the back. Can't remember what motor you are going to run, but anything over 400 hp at the wheels will cause traction problems without the larger tires.

I did exactly what your saying. I set my car up for 335's even though I am only running 295's. It's a just in case scenerio

Amit I love your build and how you detail each post. You and Bret @ Fab43 must be distant cousins with the way you both post such great updates. Makes me feel like I should step up my post detail.

Amituk

12-10-2012, 08:20 AM

Thanks Marty.

As this build is mainly a cheque book build, the threads and research are the only way to keep my hands dirty so to speak.

All my previous cars I have built myself.. But now with two young kids, it would take me a few years to build this car.

Now of to search for some threads from bret :)

syborg tt

12-10-2012, 09:28 AM

InfernalVortex

12-10-2012, 10:12 AM

I spoke to Rotiform and this was their response.

"Not sure where that poster got his info but its incorrect. Our forged wheels are 100% USA made. Our blanks come from Alcoa. I cant speak for any of the other companies he mentions but you can rest assured you have the highest quality wheels and they exceed VIA, JWL and TUV specifications. You have nothing to worry about :)"

Not the first itme I've heard the "Oh they certainly exceed [whatever] certification!" line. If they are not JWL or TUV certified then its just lipservice. Many legitimate wheels are. BBS, HRE, Volk, etc. It's not hard to submit wheels for testing, although it costs a bit of money. Not super uncommon for a custom wheel company though, as they have to get wheels of every variety and size tested, so if you're selling custom wheels you can easily have 50-100 combinations that would have to be tested. But many custom wheel companies DO go through that kind of trouble, and its good peace of mind to me. HRE is JWL/TUV certified. CCW is not, so it just depends, no one is going to say CCW is second rate.

http://importgenius.com/importers/rotiform-llc

http://rotiform.com/contact_us.htm

The address in Westminster, CA is also correct here. 6382 Industrial Way.

This is the real clincher to me that made me suspicious. The trend I see is most of these companies taking advantage of "made in the USA" standards which basically mean if you bolt it together here, you can say it. Most of these places will only show pictures of their warehouses full of wheel parts, and pictures of them assembling wheels. You rarely ever see any of them actually machining their own wheels. HRE for example goes through a lot of trouble to show pictures (and videos (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7xn58aQowBA)) of their machining processes.

Rotiform's wheels are unique amongst these other companies, despite similarities in general shape, so I can beleive they actually do machine their own centers, but why there are import records showing parts from China is a mystery to me. maybe it's just centercaps or something? Or maybe its their 1 piece wheels?

Regardless, in their particular case, Im tempted to believe them. But it's a serious issue these days. You have to be real careful, because as the Cor fiasco (along with the Sevas debacle (http://my350z.com/forum/wheels-and-tires/404587-do-not-buy-sevas-wheels.html)) shows, these boutique wheel companies can get people into trouble from time to time.

Anyway, just keep an eye on em, Im sure they'll be fine. The Cor wheels that failed visibly looked fairly weak.

As a little aside,

HRE http://importgenius.com/importers/hre-performance-wheels
Their parts come from England and germany

BBS http://importgenius.com/suppliers/bbs-washi-wheels-gmbh
England

So not everyone imports from China... You can play around with that site and find a lot of interesting things about different companies.

Amituk

12-10-2012, 10:17 AM

Yeah I also believe it is the case with rotiform as I was able to order the wheels to my spec and had to wait for them to be machined.

Maybe some of their cheaper wheels are from china?

Either way defo a good heads up and something for people to think about.

It's all to easy to take these things for granted.

Amit

Dereiter

01-05-2013, 02:41 PM

Nice project! Congrats!

Amituk

01-11-2013, 12:47 PM

Just a minor update so you guys dont forget me :)

I would like to say a big thanks to II Much Fabrication (http://blog.iimuchfabrication.com/?p=346) for hooking us up with their fuel and diff vents

As you guys know by now, I am a sucker for great engineering. Even on the most minute part of the car. These are designed to vent the fuel tank, and diff case, allowing the systems to breath without odur and leakage.

I will be using two of these, one to vent the diff case, and one to vent the fuel tank.

http://blog.iimuchfabrication.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/vent-on-green-background.jpg

We are a long way off installing these, but hey, collect the parts and the project will continue.

Hopefully back soon with some more drawings, and fab pic of the front end

Amit

GregWeld

01-18-2013, 07:18 AM

#1 -- I can't believe that you or anyone (Mario) would start with bodies that are so rotted out! OMG! But I also understand it. Not dissing you or anyone else that's had to go thru this. Just saying - it's amazing how much work and $$$ has to be spent just getting back to 'standard'.

#2 -- Great project. Taking it on in the UK even more outstanding!

#3 -- IMHO -- just get a nice GM crate motor - LS7 is 'more than' ample - LS9 if you want to scare yourself and spend a bunch more... I would think sticking with a standard crate motor and standard computer to run things in the UK would be a huge advantage. Dress it nicely and you'll have a great car.

#4 -- Commenting really just because I wanted to subscribe! So pay no attention to #'s 1 thru 3 :lol:

Amituk

01-18-2013, 07:22 AM

Amituk

01-18-2013, 07:23 AM

Oh and I have my heart set on an ls9 :)

GregWeld

01-18-2013, 07:31 AM

Greg,

Being in the uk, good 69 shells are hard to come by. It's take it or leave it.

My other choice would of been to start with a perfectly good car and rip it apart, but as I am reusing so little of it, that works out expensive.

We did the math and this worked out cheaper than buying a dynacorn body too.

I think the roof will be the only panel that stays stock lol.

Amit

I was wondering about that -- i.e., beginning with a Dynacorn or similar. It's just amazing how much work has to go into bringing these poor bodies back to life! Your builder seems to have a good handle on things!

Oh and I have my heart set on an ls9 :)

If it was me - that's what I'd choose! Awesome motor! More than ample power. A lot more complicated - but probably worth it!

Love the direction your going and really respect you for doing this given all the additional "headaches" etc by doing this in the UK. Good for you! :cheers:

Amituk

01-18-2013, 07:40 AM

syborg tt

01-18-2013, 07:44 AM

#3 -- IMHO -- just get a nice GM crate motor - LS7 is 'more than' ample - LS9 if you want to scare yourself and spend a bunch more... I would think sticking with a standard crate motor and standard computer to run things in the UK would be a huge advantage. Dress it nicely and you'll have a great car.

After going through tuning hell with Syborg - I strongly reccomend a crate with a factory harness. It will save you a ton of money and let's not forget the freaking headache's !!!

just my 2 cents

Amituk

01-18-2013, 07:52 AM

It will be a factory crate ls9 and loom

Matt@BOS

01-18-2013, 10:34 AM

Bringing over a dynacorn body would of been expensive.

Then I would of also needed an original car for the title.

If you think the ls9 is complicated, you have seen nothing yet.

Every aspect of this car will be computer controlled via touch screens.
Planning active aerodynamics and suspension and also variable engine maps at the touch of a button.

This car WILL have a super pursuit mode :)

Sounds extra complicated. Then again, I am just happy I have working power windows. I look forward to seeing something new and different on a first gen Camaro. :thumbsup:

fleetus macmullitz

01-18-2013, 01:40 PM

I have no fresh 'UK' trash talk to leave with you for now.

But I promise to try in the future...if all goes well.

:lol::lateral:

Che70velle

01-18-2013, 03:12 PM

"Every aspect of this car will be computer controlled via touch screens.
Planning active aerodynamics and suspension and also variable engine maps at the touch of a button.

This car WILL have a super pursuit mode"

Now you have my attention. This should be epic.

fleetus macmullitz

01-18-2013, 03:51 PM

Now you have my attention. This should be epic.

Michael Knight has offered his help since he has expertise in your cars' type of technology.

It would be good to have some of his Euro star power on this board. :unibrow:

http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k156/wnyjazz/david-hasselhoff-as-michael-knight-.jpg

Vince@Meanstreets

01-18-2013, 11:51 PM

I came here for the epicness and I get the Hoff. Double score!! :hail:

I liked you on Facebookasphere months ago. Looking good.

Royalworks

02-18-2013, 04:45 PM

I have done an LS9 swap. It gets lots of Looks and Stares but its not very fun to put in like an LS1. Lots of extra stuff that goes with it.

Amituk

02-19-2013, 12:36 AM

Lol thanks guys..

yeah the LS9 is going to be a ball ache to get looking clean and pretty, but you cant argue with the tech.

Ideally I would convince NRE to lend me one of their motors lol.

Here is something to keep you going.

First round of detail body mod sketches from Victor

https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/563376_425464800866630_78612797_n.jpg

The final car will have pop out side gills, pop up rear spoiler, opening and closing hood cowl vents. If I can get it to work, the wipers will also be hidden under a pop up panel :)

The Idea is to close all vents to reduce drag when cursing, and then to open up when letting rip or breaking.

As soon as jason@theGMR is finished with the front uprights, we will start work on the custom chassis

Amit

Greg from Aus

02-19-2013, 02:13 AM

Looks sweet, can't wait to see it all come together.

Greg

Royalworks

02-19-2013, 10:38 AM

Vic, Those drawings are sick. I wish I could actually post up my stuff of the Z he did but its gonna stay under wraps. Cant wait to see the actual finished rendering of your car.

Amituk

02-19-2013, 10:53 AM

Stop being a woose and post it :p

Amituk

02-27-2013, 12:22 PM

A little more progress to report.

Victor has done a great job sketching out some of my ideas. We are heading in the right direction, but not there yet.

Some of these are a little wild, but gives a flavor of the attack car I want to build.

Middle left is my fav front end, with the centre grill slats, and middle right is my fave rear/side view.

Retropower have a lot of work ahead :)

https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/563376_425464800866630_78612797_n.jpg

In the meant time Jason @ theGMR.com has completed the front uprights. We just need to get them shipped over to the UK so we can continue with the chassis build

The fabricated front uprights are based on the Corvette C6 uprights. Being made from steel, they are much stronger than stock and aftermarket parts made from ally. They dont suffer from deflection during hard cornering. Also they only weigh 1lb over the stock items.. but strength is way up

Jason starts with a load of machined parts. The hub face and upper and lower ball joint mounts
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/4.frontsuspension/uprights01.jpg

All the parts that make up 1 pair of uprights
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/4.frontsuspension/uprights02.jpg

One unique feature of theGMR uprights is they have matched the stock lower ball joint taper perfectly using a custom built reamer. They will not disclose the exact taper but we can assure it is not either of the standard 7 or 10 degree tapers.Their uprights matches the stock taper perfectly to ensure quality fitment with the stock GMR components.
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/4.frontsuspension/uprights03.jpg

1.5" thick steel tooling is used to ensure there is no deflection of movement during the welding process
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/4.frontsuspension/uprights04.jpg

The fully welded uprights
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/4.frontsuspension/uprights05.jpg

As you can see, only 1.1lb heavier than stock but so much stronger
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/4.frontsuspension/uprights06.jpg

The uprights can accept stock GM hubs, or the awesome GMR hubs. Guess what we are using on nighthawk
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/4.frontsuspension/uprights07.jpg

The completed upright with the calipers and discs bolted on
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/4.frontsuspension/uprights08.jpg
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/4.frontsuspension/uprights09.jpg

Fully completed fabricated GMR upright and hub, with brakes installed
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.therebuild/4.frontsuspension/uprights10.jpg

Hopefully we will have more updates coming soon. In the meantime, like the facebook page to keep up with my musings and other great projects I find.

Amituk

03-23-2013, 10:53 AM

So who wants to see some updates?

Amit

Matt@BOS

03-23-2013, 11:15 AM

So who wants to see some updates?

Amit

I want updates if you decided to fork over the cash for a DCT like you were thinking about. :G-Dub:

Amituk

03-23-2013, 12:14 PM

Looked into it.. But was looking at $30k!!

Think I will stick to an auto:)

214Chevy

03-23-2013, 12:24 PM

So who wants to see some updates?

Amit

Are you seriously asking us that question?? :computer: :computer:

Amituk

03-30-2013, 09:03 AM

progress update :)

The roof skin is finally on and the exterior body restore is almost done.

http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/3.TheRebuild/3.BodyRebuild/bodyrebuild115.jpg

You can see the full step by step pics here with the commentary

The Body Rebuild (https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.369897753090002.88167.283403115072800&type=1&l=920d70d844)

Now we can start on the custom work :) This is where it gets interesting. The rear end and front uprights are on their way from the US, and the boys are itching to start work on the custom chassis.

But thats not all folks!

unfortunately victor also had to pull out of the design team :( but the good news is, Mike Gillett our original designer is back with his pens blazing!

These are almost final sketches pending any changes needed due to actual build constraints. The rear lights are still work in progress

The front grill and hood vents will be open and closeable at the touch of a button.
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/0.concept/mg_frontsketch.png

http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/0.concept/mg_fronttopsketch.png

The rear diffuser is a double decker design. The top slot will be vented to the under side of the car, and will also be blown with hot gases from the exhaust. The feed slot and exhaust bypass will be motor controlled so I can shut them and reduce downforce when not needed. ie cruising. Most of the aero features on this car will be deactivateable to reduce drag under light duty. With an 800bhp V8 and current fuel prices, I need all the efficiency help I can get :)

http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/0.concept/mg_rearsketch.png

You can see the full journey of how we got to these sketches here
Concept Drawings (https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.283406758405769.68551.283403115072800&type=3)

Thats all folks until next time

Amituk

03-30-2013, 09:04 AM

Are you seriously asking us that question?? :computer: :computer:

Well considering the response I get on this forum, not sure why I bother lol

other threads, the OP posts a pic of a bolt he has polished and gets 20 replies telling him how great he is lol.

I post my life story and get nothing :D

Cole

03-30-2013, 10:54 AM

The Pity train is frowned on Holmes and since its not the first time we've all heard it that doesn't help. Do yourself a favor, take in the consideration the anount of views and maybe that will make you feel better!

Btw Nice build. The sketch looks great!

Rybar

03-30-2013, 10:57 AM

I like the renderings alot, let's see yours guys start fabbing it in real life and then I think you will get a pretty good response :D

Amituk

03-30-2013, 11:30 AM

Amituk

03-30-2013, 11:31 AM

I like the renderings alot, let's see yours guys start fabbing it in real life and then I think you will get a pretty good response :D

Yeah thats what I was thinking. Boring stuff is now out of the way.

Custom chassis is up next

Al Moreno

03-30-2013, 01:25 PM

All told, if your build comes close to the renderings, it going to be one sick car! Good luck with the project, I will be looking and posting replays, LOL

frankv11

03-30-2013, 06:09 PM

Ill be posting pictures of a polished bolt on my thread see if it works. :poke:

214Chevy

03-30-2013, 07:30 PM

Start the top notch fabbing Amit and this thread will take off. We love pics here. That's why I asked were you serious if we wanted to see updates. I said it in a joking manner though. Keep up the good work. Everytime I see your thread come to the top, I myself take a look and follow your build. :snapout: :snapout:

garickman

03-30-2013, 07:41 PM

I haven't posted but I have been following your build. It's pretty amazing so keep up the good work! You should also be commended for finding a way to include the word "deactivateable" into your build thread.

sixnina

03-31-2013, 01:07 AM

The renderings look awesome, it will be interesting to see how we'll this translates into reality.
Shane:thumbsup:

FETorino

03-31-2013, 04:01 PM

Well considering the response I get on this forum, not sure why I bother lol

other threads, the OP posts a pic of a bolt he has polished and gets 20 replies telling him how great he is lol.

I post my life story and get nothing :D

I was looking for a box of tissue smiley but this will have to do :headscratch:

progress update :)

Now we can start on the custom work :) This is where it gets interesting. The rear end and front uprights are on their way from the US, and the boys are itching to start work on the custom chassis.

But thats not all folks!

unfortunately victor also had to pull out of the design team :( but the good news is, Mike Gillett our original designer is back with his pens blazing!

These are almost final sketches pending any changes needed due to actual build constraints. The rear lights are still work in progress

The front grill and hood vents will be open and closeable at the touch of a button.
http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/0.concept/mg_frontsketch.png

http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/0.concept/mg_fronttopsketch.png

The rear diffuser is a double decker design. The top slot will be vented to the under side of the car, and will also be blown with hot gases from the exhaust. The feed slot and exhaust bypass will be motor controlled so I can shut them and reduce downforce when not needed. ie cruising. Most of the aero features on this car will be deactivateable to reduce drag under light duty. With an 800bhp V8 and current fuel prices, I need all the efficiency help I can get :)

http://www.c4ppy.net/camaro/0.concept/mg_rearsketch.png

You can see the full journey of how we got to these sketches here

Thats all folks until next time

Ah much better post. :thumbsup:

I like the focus on Aero mods especially the active aero stuff. Who, what software or do you have a windtunnel and some clay models are you using to come up with the aero designs? I'm looking forward to what you guys come up with to enhance the areo grip.

I guess I missed out last I saw you were building it with a 600hp ls when did you bump it to 800?

:cheers:

waynieZ

03-31-2013, 09:20 PM

That looks Sweet!

Amituk

04-01-2013, 01:59 AM

I was looking for a box of tissue smiley but this will have to do :headscratch:

Ah much better post. :thumbsup:

I like the focus on Aero mods especially the active aero stuff. Who, what software or do you have a windtunnel and some clay models are you using to come up with the aero designs? I'm looking forward to what you guys come up with to enhance the areo grip.

I guess I missed out last I saw you were building it with a 600hp ls when did you bump it to 800?

:cheers:

The aero stuff I am doing is a well known and documented improvements. I am not looking for every 10th of a sec round a track so don't really need a wind tunnel.

I do plan to make a scale model from a 1/12th kit I have which I want to blow smoke over, but its more for fun than anything scientific.

Smooth under bodies, diffusers, spoilers and rear wings are known to add downforce.. But down force also means increased drag.

All my active mods are aimed at reducing drag while at cruise speeds. These will be things like retracting the rear wing, shutting the vents around the car, and stalling the top deck of the diffuser.

The control software, I plan to right my self. I will probably use a combination of a smart phone and an audrino board. The g sensors in a smart phone will alow me to do things like automatically increase drag/downforce when the car is decelerating or going round a bend etc.

I will program in the obvious basics, the rest of it will just be a tweaking and learning experience.

Re the power, it was 600 Bhp when the project started with a tuned ls3, but now I want an LS9 and more power. To be honest, the drive train isn't finalised and will decide when I get to that point in the build.