Project EH-Body - 1976 Plymouth Duster

[Riddler]

Well I'm new to lateral G but I've been building my car for 3-4 years. Please forgive as I try and get this new build back on track to match up with the others sites I'm on.

Here's a rendering I had done from Mascoll Designs.

http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/resizefinal.jpg


The plan for the car is 6.1L Hemi (425hp), T-56 (Viper) and an 8 3/4" rear end. I have a tube front end with rack and sway bar and a rear 4 triangular four link.

The suspension is all from Reilly Motorsports.

Please forgive me while I ad 3-4 years of posts to this thread.

Riddler

[Riddler]

This is what the car looks like when we brought it home...

http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0226.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0227.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0238.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0234.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0237.jpg


Overall a solid car from the USA. I'll be adding to this project long as time goes on.

Riddler

[Riddler]

First things first. The interior smelled like Moth Balls. It was used to get the mice out of the car since it was stored in a barn. The entire interior was removed.

One Seat removed
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0261.jpg

Both Seats removed
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0262.jpg

Rear Seat and Carpet Removed
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0263.jpg

The only rust I've found so far. Also note the center hump has had another hump installed over it with screws and seam sealer.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0265.jpg

Driver's Side Rust
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0266.jpg


Well the interior is out, I've located and purchased a set of floor pans. Not sure I'll need them since it's mostly surface rust. I can prolly make due just patching with some small sheet metal cutouts for the holes.

Total dead mice found - 4

The plan is have the entire car blasted.

Riddler

[Riddler]

Well I've started to disassemble the car down so that I can get it blasted.

http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_5777.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_5778.jpg

Front end gettig stripped down first.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_5786.jpg

Fenders came off once we found all the nuts.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_5787.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_5789.jpg

Only surface rust. Woohoo!
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_5790.jpg


Riddler

[Riddler]

Well the disassembly continues. This time I went to the back of the car and started to remove everything.

http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0336.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0337.jpg

The gas tank was brand new. At least that's what I've been told.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0341.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0342.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0343.jpg

This is going to be a larger job. Someone in the past has screwed down another (Volare/Aspen) center hump over the stock hump. Then they seam sealed it. Gonna have to grind the screw heads off a peel this center section off.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0344.jpg

This concludes this disassembly installment.

Riddler

[Riddler]

Well I got alot more done this weekend. I'm also finally up to date on the pictures. This is how the car is currently sitting...

Look ma, no glass...
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0349.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0350.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0351.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0352.jpg

Pictures of the glass out of the car.
Front:
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0361.jpg
Rear:
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0362.jpg

So this was my goal this weekend, to get the glass out. After about an hour I had it all out. So I went for bonus removal on items.

Started with the dash now since I could get to those bolts.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0353.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0354.jpg

I figured the column would be very troublesome to get out. Nope the old owner had taken all the bolts, pins etc out and left them out. Just a quick pull and it came.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0355.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0356.jpg

Now this this was all removed, we went to remove the brake booster and resivoir.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0358.jpg

Not much left to remove. Engine and tranny will come out when I can get a hoist. The rear end can come out anytime now.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0359.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0363.jpg

While taking out the rear quarter glass I found something strange. The driver's side has an extra piece of metal. How odd!
DRIVER'S:
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0364.jpg

PASSENGER'S:
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0365.jpg

This had to be a factory error. The piece of metal was not cut out unless god himself removed it. No evidence of cutting or anything.

Riddler

[Riddler]

Well I jumped back on the disassembly of the Duster this weekend. I decided I finally wanted the Volare/Aspen center hump and shifter removed to see what is under it.

Here's me grinding the screws and seam sealer off.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0369.jpg

I went from this....
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0353.jpg

To this....
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0370.jpg

I then decided to remove the white peice of tin.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0371.jpg

Yes that is a piece of a My Little Pony lunch pail! LOL

After this was all done I had some more spare time, so I figured I'd empty out the doors.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0372.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0376.jpg


Finally both doors are ready for blasting.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0377.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0375.jpg


On Saturday 31OCT2009 I got a call about a motor. I jumped in my truck with my brother in law Jim and purchased that motor.

Here's a small teaser for now....
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0380.jpg

[Riddler]

Without further ado.....

2005 5.7L 345CI Hemi. This elephant weighs prolly 600-750lbs. Thank to Jim for the help geting her home.

http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0378.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0379.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0381.jpg


I'm hoping to find a 545RFE or something similar for behind this. I'm going to keep it automatic so my Wife can drive it also.

Riddler

[Riddler]

Haven't worked much on the car but I have been buying items.

Here's a factory correct console....

http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/Console.jpg

I've also sourced a set of tail light from a gent in Texas.

http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0388.jpg


Last but not least is a complete rear suspension. Gone will be the old leaf spring suspension. This is an RMS Street Lynx kit.

http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0386.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0385.jpg


That's all for now.

Riddler

[Riddler]

Well here's the latest update. Not much has happened since the last update due to the fact I up'd and moved on Jan 26 and my wife and I have been working on getting settled. But things have to get moving if I ever want to see this project completed.

First thing was to start making more room for things. So I cleared all the parts out and made room for more dissassembly.

Here'e my 8 3/4" E body rear end with a 489 center section.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0001.jpg

With my brother in law away I had to recruite the help of my dad. Never had a chance to work with my dad on cars, but man it felt good, talking cars and about missed times...

Here's the 318 he helped my yank out.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0002.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0003.jpg

After this out I could see the full extent of the k frame and steering box. The steering box must weigh a metric ton. Looks big and heavy!
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0004.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0005.jpg

After this was done I set up the rotisserie. I still need to get the car higher in the air and bolt it onto the rotisserie, but it's set-up and ready to go.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0006.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0007.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0008.jpg

Well until the next update....

Riddler

[Riddler]

Well I've been working on Project "Eh" body.

Since the last update of setting up the rotisserie, I've removed all the suspension, body plugs, clips, etc etc. This was done with the help of Keith Zimmer. Truely one of the car gods. Thanks Keith!

Rear suspension
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0142~0.jpg

Front suspension and old brake lines
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0143~0.jpg

So to complete the removal of all the body plugs, clips, etc we got to play whirl the Duster around!
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0139~0.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0140~0.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0141~0.jpg

Well since everything was off it and Keith's blasting it for me, we decided to just take the car over there today.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0147~0.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0148~0.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0149.jpg

The truck showed up and it's loaded. Nice to see another Mopar hauling my Mopar!
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0152~0.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0151~0.jpg


When the car come back next week it'll be blasted and epoxy coated. Then I'll start the metal work.

Riddler

[Riddler]

Well today I made it over to the media blaster's. He warned me that the fender's were no good. I was heart broken since I knew the car was practically rust free.

The fender's turned out to be not bad at all. Just has some minor waves in the driver's side and the passenger has a small hit in the front.

Passenger Side:
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0171~0.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0172~0.jpg
I should be able to tap these out....

Driver's side:
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0175~0.jpg
You can still see where the bondo is. He's going to finish up blasting the fenders of bondo and then I should be able to bang them back into shape.

He then showed me the hood and trunk lid. He said these are some of the best parts he's ever blasted. Barely any paint on them and they had practically no rust.

Hood:
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0174~0.jpg

Trunk Lid:
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0173~0.jpg


The last picture is of the car on the rotisserie waiting until all the smaller parts are done.

http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0176~0.jpg

Well that's all for now....stay tuned...

Riddler

[Riddler]

Well I started working some on the Hemi 5.7L to get it cleaned up and converted to a car LX motor.

I started by removing the truck manifolds, accessories and motor mounts.

http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0178~0.jpg

While trying to get the pulley bolt out, I broke it. WTF?

http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0177~0.jpg

Right now I'm at the point of getting a smaller puller 3 jaw puller. Once I get the pulley off, I'm hoping to be able to get at the bolt.

Riddler

[Riddler]

Well after waiting 8 long weeks, the Duster has arrived home. I'm eager to dig in on metal work but I know it's going to be a long slow process. I don't have an end date in mind, and honestly I see this as a project for a few years. Money permitting. :)

Here's what I have to work with after media blast and epoxy primer. The car has been hit on both sides very lightly. Both quarter's need work. The front floor pans are also pretty much shot. I have new one to put down anyway! Onto the pictures....

Full car shot on rotisserie
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0186.jpg

Driver's side quarter with slide tool holes.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0187.jpg

Driver's rear seat belt mount. Both are sides are gone.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0188.jpg

Driver's front floor pan or whats left of it.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0189.jpg

Driver's front A pillar. The lead from the factory came out during media blast.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0190.jpg

Engine bay
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0191.jpg

Passenger side front floor.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0192.jpg

Passenger side rear seat belt mount.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0194.jpg

Passenger side rear quarter. The only rust to the outside body panels. Small patch will fix this.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0195.jpg

Passenger side trunk extension. It looks like the previous owner jacked the car from that pinch weld.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0196.jpg

Trunk area clean
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0197.jpg

and finally the roof with very slight dents.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0199.jpg

Now that I have the car back the plan is to work a small amount each day on it. I have to return the rotisserie so the plan is to make some stands with casters that bolt to the bumper bolt locations.

Riddler

[Riddler]

I haven't really done much since I've been parting out my Neon. But I have made some purchases.

This is a fuel door pocket off a newer challenger with the Retro look fuel door.

http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0061.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0064~0.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0063.jpg

The plan is to replace the stock Duster fuel door with this one.

Riddler

[Riddler]

Well as I'm sure you can tell, I haven't really started cutting metal and such. I have however saved up and bought some more parts.

Here's my front RMS Alterktion.

http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0302~0.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0303.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0304.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0305~0.jpg

Then since I went to a different spindle I needed new brakes. Wilwood had some really nice 4 piston Dynalites with 12.19" rotors.

http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0306~0.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0307~0.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0308~0.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0309~0.jpg

I'm hoping to be cutting metal soon. I've got alot to do. My goal is to have rolling chassis by xmas. :)

Riddler

[Riddler]

Picked up some more parts. I know I know, try and get some work done! LOL

Here's the front brace from XV Motorsports.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0332~0.jpg

I also sources a VERY RARE set of NOS 73-76 Duster tail light lenses.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0333.jpg

Riddler

[Riddler]

I told myself over the last week at work that I needed to start digging in and getting the Duster worked on. I decided if I could get a bunch of things ready for welding, maybe my welder (brother-in-law) will do some welding when he returns from a business trip.

I started out and got the rear Street Linx cross bar mounted. I still have to take it down now, use the flap wheel to clean off the primer so welding can be done!

I then started looking at the front floors in the car, yeah they look like crap, I have some new ones to install. I started by cutting and removing the front passenger side floor. After I fought with the spot weld bit for an hour I finally got the hang of it. I'd still like to find a better one.

Here's what the floor looked like after being removed.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0707.jpg

Here's the hole...
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0706.jpg

As you can see my frame rails are in VERY good condition. I still think I'll brush in some por15 down them to keep the insides nice.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0705.jpg

I then tackled the center, and since it's not going back in, I just cut it out. Four spot welds is all that really held it in.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0709.jpg

This is what I'm left with. I had to stop as the cutting and banging was driving my wife nuts. :)
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0708.jpg

Till next time...

Riddler

[Riddler]

Well the rest of the floor has been removed.

http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0712.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0711.jpg

I'm thinking I'm going to use POR 15 down inside all the frame rails to go over that rust and such. Then when the new floors are welded in the insides of the frame rails would be coated.

I've also been working on trying to get the front alkerktion k frame mounted but the stock bump stop and such are spot welded on really well.

Riddler

[Riddler]

Well my rims (Boze Pro Touring) came in this week. The fronts are 17x8, 5.5" backspacing. The rears are 18x10 with a 4.5" backspacing. I was really hoping to have more of a front dish but due to the brakes and such I'm required to use this size.

I purchased Falken FK452 tires, 245-45-17 for the front and 275-40-18 for the rear. I took the brand new rims to the tire shop in the boxes. The manager's assistance tried to put the front tires on. I say tried cause he marked up both front rims. HE didn't notice these were reverse mount style rims. Lucky for me the shop is going to buy me two new rims to replace the marked ones and I get to keep the marked rims anyway.

The manager installed the rear rims and had no issues at all.

Here's the pictures I snapped tonight....

http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0825.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0826.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0827.jpg

Guess I can finalyl measure up the rear end!

Riddler

[Riddler]

Well I got to work a bit today with the help of my brother in law Jim. Jim's great with metal and knows how to weld much better than me. The welding helmet had dead batteries so we only got tack welds done. Everything still needs to be welded in. We started with the RMS Street Linx. Sorry didn't catch a picture of this yet.

We then moved onto the passenger side front floor. This is what the front rails looked like after I used POR-15 a few days ago.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0828.jpg

Here's the panel just getting put in, I think there are 2-3 tacks so far.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0830.jpg

This picture shows what it looks like tacked in. It doesn't move at all. I need to get some autobody pinch weld clamps so we can have a nice pinch weld.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0831.jpg

Another view of the passenger side in.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0832.jpg

This is the driver's side panel with the holes for the spot welds. Lots of drilling going on!
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0835.jpg

While I was drilling the holes in the driver's side panel and waiting for the rechargeable drill battery to recharge, Jim got to work on getting the new Challenger gas door installed.

Fitting the fuel door body ring and measuring a few times before cutting.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0833.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0834.jpg

After cutting Jim cleaned up all the burrs with a file.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0836.jpg

This is the fuel door body ring tacked in with the new fuel door. This was to check to see if it was straight.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0837.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0838.jpg

Well until next time...

The plan, finish the driver's floor, then do the subframe connectors and maybe relocation boxes.

Riddler

[Riddler]

Well time for a large update. I came home from work and my brother in law Jim came over. Jim takes welding and turns it into an art form. If I could weld and manipulate metal the way he does I'd be light years farther along.

Here's Jim welding the passenger side floor panel in. Remember it was only tacked in before.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0841.jpg

Here's the finished panel, just need to use the flap wheel to bust down the welds a little and then seam seal and prime.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0842.jpg

Jim then moved to the Street Linx main bar. Welded it in fully. I just need to get some primer now and prime it.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0843.jpg

Close up of the welds. It's not easy to weld with the car not high in the air.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0844.jpg

While Jim was busy welding the passenger floor pan and also the rear Street Linx, I was getting the front of the car ready for the AlterKtion. RMS states that those brackets are not welded very well, let me tell you, by 1976, they got better at welding, cause they were really on there. Picture of the brackets removed...
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0845.jpg

Jim then assisted me in bolting the AlterKtion up to the frame and also drilling through and installing the helper plates.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0846.jpg

The driver's floor was prepped and Jim set about welding it in. Floors really are a two person job, one to stand on the floor and one to tack it in.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0848.jpg

While Jim was welding the driver's floor pan in, I set about building all the peices of the front AlterKtion. QA1 Coilovers...
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0847.jpg

Here's everything set out on the bench so that I can start assembly. I guess once I know it all fits, I'll send most of it out for powdercoating.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0849.jpg

I still have a few things to do for metal work. I have US Car Tool subframe connectors, spring relocation boxes, and the dreaded minitub.

That's it for now.

Riddler

[Riddler]

Well today my brother in law and best friend Jim came over to work on the car. I started work on the hood hinges with gas struts and he started on the Willwood front brakes since I had the front AlterKtion assembled.

Here's the Willwood Dynalite hub and rotor bolted together.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0853.jpg

Here's the back of the rotor with the stainless steel safety wire. Jim is a master of this, I'm super happy to have a friend with these skills.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0857.jpg

Here's a picture of the front hubs with the bearings packed, the seals installed and ready to be bolted to the spindle.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0859.jpg

Here's everything bolted onto the car ready for some wheels.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0860.jpg

Now the front wheels. We bolted these down with just a couple of lug nuts since I want to buy some better lugs. These are just cheapy ones.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0862.jpg

Close up....
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0863.jpg


While Jim was working on the front brakes I moved from the hood hinges to the XV front brace. I figured the chassis needed to get finished before I started to do little things. I cut and removed the stock sheet metal and cleaned up the front for welding. Jim welded the brace on for me.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0854.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0855.jpg

Then I primed the XV brace so it doesn't rust.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0856.jpg

So now the front brace was done, I turned my attention to the floor pans. The welds needed to be grinded down and then I needed to seam seal and prime them. The rust was starting....
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0858.jpg

Now comes the seam sealer..
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0861.jpg

Here's the floor pans primed. The primer matches the Epoxy Primer used by the media blaster.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0864.jpg

Just want to say thanks again to my brother in law Jim.

Riddler

[Riddler]

Large update for today. Jim came over and we tackled the subframe connectors and the relocation boxes.

We started with the subframe connectors. The US Car Tool connectors were older ones and didn't fit perfectly. We were required to massage them in and I still have some very large gaps, which I assume are for the ebrake cables.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0869.jpg


Here's the inside floor primer burning and the final burn marks before I primered over them again.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0871.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0870.jpg


Here's Jim welding away...
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0873.jpg


Then we moved onto the relocation boxes. Not very hard just time consuming.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0868.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0874.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0875.jpg


That ends another day....

Riddler

[Riddler]

Well I got back to work on Sunday with my brother in law. He completed the last of the welding needed for the relocation blocks. While he did that I drilled and tapped the XV Motorsports front brace for the hood latch.

http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0883.jpg

Then we moved onto the minitubs. While these are not really needed now I'm hoping to purchase wider rims and tires for the rear in the future.

Braces removed...
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0882.jpg

Then we removed the driver's side...
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0884.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0885.jpg

Lastly we made the passenger side match the driver's...
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0886.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0887.jpg

Of course I just had to stick the rear rims/tires under it to see. Measured the rear also, 54 1/2" mounting flange to mounting flange.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0888.jpg

Plan is to be back at this weekend....

Riddler

[Riddler]

Well sort of a large update today. Jim and I and our friend Steve hit up Autorama Detroit this weekend and this really got our car juices flowing. So today we worked like crazy mad men!

Jim went right to work on the the minitubs. He grinded and welded and floor to the frame.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0895.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0896.jpg

While he was working on that I removed spot welds and then removed the floors from the tubs. After that was done I got snagged on a stud for the rocker trim. Grinded those right off.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0894.jpg

Jim and I got both tubs tacked in and solid enough for use to leave them. We were both sick of working in the grinding mess so we cleaned up.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0898.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0899.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0900.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0901.jpg

One would think this is all we got completed today. But it was nice out and we worked with the garage door up. We mocked up the RMS Street Linx so I can have the read end cut down.

All laid out on the bench...
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0897.jpg

Now the mock up shots.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0902.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0903.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0904.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0905.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0906.jpg

Well that's all for today!

Riddler

[Riddler]

Here's the newest update. I took the rear housing over to Drive Train Specialties in Warren, MI and had them cut down the housing, weld on new ends, weld on the Street Linx parts while it was on a jig and then install the new bolts kit I bought.

I then brought it home, grinded off the welding splatter and other crap and gave the housing a fresh coat of POR15 chassis glass black.

http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0916.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0917.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0918.jpg

Next I'll assemble the rear axle and finish the minitub.

Riddler

[Riddler]

Here's an update from today. I was able to find some time today to get the rear axle built and into the car.

Layed down a nice bead of Permatex Gear Oil RTV Sealant. Specially made for rear axles!
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0148~1.jpg

Bolted on the center section. 45 ft/lbs
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0149~0.jpg

Installed the brakes and axles. Not a fun task having to take them on and off 3-4 times. But there finally done and I learned a few tricks!
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0150~1.jpg

Rotors and Calipers installed. They look great!
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0151~1.jpg

What kind of axles are those? That's right, MOSERS!
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0153~0.jpg

Assembled ready to go into the car.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0152~1.jpg

Here's one of the wheels on the car. Studs are too long for the style of lug nuts I have. Plan right now is to cut them down.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0154.jpg


So how'd I do?

Riddler

[Riddler]

Well on Saturday, Jim and I made some more progress on the car and finished off the minitubs. The work completed looks amazing and to think we did this with a mig welder and angle grinders is amazing. Just imagine if we had the right tools...

Please bear in mind the heat was killer, 90 degree's with extreme humidity.

These pictures show the first tub completed and tacked in. Afterwards Jim went back and completed stitch welds for strength.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0569.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0570.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0571.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0572.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0575.jpg

This is the second side. Here you can see the patch panels I made out of sheet metal.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0573.jpg

Through the taillight views, driver's side then passenger. While I was going to be seam sealing the tubs I fixed the trunk extension on the passenger side and got it ready for new seal seal.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0576.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0574.jpg

Inside the car view. As you can see I still need to replace the seatbelt mounts. Any idea if replacement seatbelt mounts are available?
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0577.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0578.jpg

The cross braces for the back seat welded back in.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0579.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0580.jpg

Now to finally finish the minitubs off, we need to put some better welds on the bottom of the cross braces, replace the seatbelt mounts, and cut the trunk arm braces and reweld them on.

Riddler

[Riddler]

Well I haven't done alot fo work but I did get some stuff done on the weekend.

I seam sealed most of the tubs on the inside of the car. Still have to do the outside and inner wheel wells.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_0588.jpg

I then put down a good layer of POR15. I'm not even sure I'm going to keep the spare tire area as I might go with a fuel tank that drops in through the trunk.

http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_0594.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_0595.jpg

I've still got to do the inner quaters with POR15. I also have a few holes to weld up as well as tack the trunk hinge braces back to the tubs.

Riddler

[Riddler]

Well on Friday I found some time as my wife and son went shopping. I decided to try and complete the minitubs and get them squared away.

Here I show you what Ihave left. The old seatbelt mount was rotted away and I needed a new seatbelt anchor.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_0618.jpg

Here I show you how bad my welding it. While I penetrate the metal, I don't have a nice clean weld.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_0619.jpg

Inside view
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_0620.jpg

Now with the metal replaced I grinded the welds down flat and seam sealed over it all.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_0623.jpg

Inside view
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_0624.jpg

After all that dried I painted POR15 over everything to protect it. I did the entire trunk, the rear seat area and the inside tubs.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_0621.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_0622.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_0626.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_0627.jpg

My plan is to put sound deadner on the inside of the car and then use rocker guard inside the tubs to cover the POR15 as it has no UV protection. Don't want the sun breaking it down.

Riddler

[Riddler]

About six weeks back I sent Modo Innovations some pedals. In the box they recieved every pedal that is used for A Bodies. I sent:

Manual 4 speed pedals
Automatic Pedal
Gas Pedal
DBW Hemi Pedal

I'm pleased to annouce with Shannon at Modo Innovations that the covers have been completed for our cars. They should be listed on his website very soon.

Here's the pictures of my pedals that are getting sent back to me.

http://i617.photobucket.com/albums/tt256/modoinnovations/MOPAR001.jpg
http://i617.photobucket.com/albums/tt256/modoinnovations/MOPAR002.jpg

I'm sure the Dark Series will follow as well.


Riddler

[Riddler]

Well it's been a while, for a few reasons. Saving money to buy parts, renovations on the house (new office) and an active 6 month old baby boy. :) I've recieved my 8073 Quicktime bellhousing a few weeks back.

http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_0711.jpg

The bellhousing did not come with instructions, lucky for my I've located some info about replacing the cheap bolts from quicktime with Grade 8 bolts. I bolted on the bellhousing to the trans.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_0824.jpg

As you can see only seven bolts are required as this one bolt near the starter opening doesn't line up.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_0825.jpg

Here's a couple of pictures of the bolts. Silver are cheap grade 5 and the gold are grade 8.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_0826.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_0827.jpg

Then since I had the Hurst Billet Pro shifter I bolted that as well.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_0831.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_0832.jpg

Well hopefully next time I'll have the mock up 5.7 block and T56 in the car and working on getting the floor finished.

Riddler

[Riddler]

So I had some time today and I really want to get the mock up hemi block and T56 into the car so I can finish the floor. Once the floor is done I can finish painting POR15 and then save to have the body work done.

Pictures were taken with iPhone instead of DSL.

Here's the block on the stand and engine picker getting ready to put into the car.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_0869.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_0870.jpg

Here's the hemi block in the car with the mounts figured out. Small one on the passenger side, large on the driver's.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_0871.jpg

Then I bolted on the block plate to the bellhousing. Not all bolts used for mockup.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_0872.jpg

Last but not least I mated the Hemi block to the T56 trans. The trans slid on the dowels and the bolts fell into the holes. Was super easy.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_0874.jpg


I was unable to get the block and trans into the car myself. I'll have to wait until I can get some help. Hopefully I'll have updates quicker soon...

Riddler

[Riddler]

Well I haven't had much time to work on the car with life happening. My welder (brother in law, officially now) went and got married and we had his reception, my wife broke her foot and it's healed and I'm currently getting over a nasty flu with my 9 month old son. So there have been better days....

I may not have been working on the car but I have had my fuel tank designed and is currently being built by Tincup and White Trash (members on http://www.forabodiesonly.org). Here's the design.

http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/fueltank.jpg

The plan is to have the tank drop in through the trunk. The top will remain flat and the pump/fuel level sender will be hidden under a small acess panel. The lines will run out under the car and won't be inside the trunk.

Here's some pics that have been sent my way by the builder.

http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/Fueltank1.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/Fueltank2.jpg

I've got some more surprised to let out of the bag soon.

Riddler

[Riddler]

First I want to show off my welder. It's setup for flux core right now until I can afford to pony up for a bottle of argon.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_1104.jpg

Now onto the new parts. I loved the new fender/front rad support covers Ross made and he offered to send me a pair. Thank you Ross. These are going to work out great!
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_1103.jpg


Finally my fuel tank has been finished and shipped to me. Micheal and Eric did an amazing job on this tank. It's perfect! The welds are clean and the extra's I asked for were spot on. I'll let the pictures do the talking.

FYI - shipping folded over the covers slightly, nothing I can't straighten though.

http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_1106.jpg

Here's the filler tube with vent.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_1107.jpg

Here's the access panel.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_1108.jpg

What's under the access panel?
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_1109.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_1110.jpg


Well I'm super excited to cut the trunk floor out and get this tank installed. But I know I need to practise welding before I weld in 1" strips of metal to help strengthen the floor.

Riddler

[Riddler]

It's been a while since I've posted but I've been working on the car here and there with small updates and purchases. I've been working on the Peaks Dashes and working on getting it to fit perfect. Takes alot of time.

Today I found time this afternoon to cut the trunk floor out my car and install the fuel tank.

Here's the marking lines.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_1323.jpg

Here's the trunk floor cut out.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_1324.jpg

Finally the fuel tank installed in the car. I just have to get some sheet metal screws or nuts and bolts. I'm leaning towards nuts and bolts.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_1325.jpg

Here's the view through the filler door opening to the tank. Looks like a good fit.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_1327.jpg


More updates soon, I hope. :)

Riddler

[Riddler]

Well I had the entire morning to work today. Wife and baby chose to sleep through the 100* weather all morning.

I just finished up the fuel tank mounting. I took better pictures of what I've done as well as painted the POR15 up around the rest of the body work.

Here's the tank with the seal mounted.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0033.jpg

Here's the before POR15 pictures.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0034.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0035.jpg

And now the after pictures of it all painted and proteted.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0036.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0037.jpg


I then moved on the the Peaks Dash I have. I've been working it and massaging it to fit for weeks on and off. Today I took drastic measures. I cut the glove box door up and made it fit the way it's suppose to.

Just a picture showing the glove box cover not really lining up and you can see what I've done to help that.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0038.jpg

I chose to get rid of the half round as it wasn't in the right place and the knob just didn't fit it right. Glad I kept the stock plastic trim peice for the glove box door.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0039.jpg

The glove box massaged and ready to install. It took hours to get it to this point.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0043.jpg

Here are some fitment pictures of the gauge area.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0040.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0041.jpg

Last but not least the final pictures. The glove box lines up with a 1/8" gap between the door and main dash and the bend in the dash finally lines up when you see it.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0044.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0045.jpg

Here's the close up view of the glove box door.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0046.jpg

I'm sure I'll have do play with it some more but for now I'm very happy with how it's come out. My future plan is to grind the heads of the screws down and fiberglass over them along with the bottom edge so it looks like one piece.

Riddler

[Riddler]

Well another day, more work completed. I wasn't able to weld much the last few weeks as I needed a welding extension cord. I was going to make my own but a local store had one go on sale for 50% off. So I snatched it up.

So I'll start off with the hydroboost unit I obtained from a local wrecking yard. Not a bad score, looked fairly new, was clean and the vehicle it was on had the steering column removed. I cleaned it up and gave it a coat of gloss black and high temp clear.

Painting the black...
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_1543.jpg

All done with clear...
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_1551.jpg

I then took my time to make a template to take to the laser cutter.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_1541.jpg


i then moved on the transmission crossmember. So far I've gotten it all mocked up and tack welded. Today I finally was happy enough to weld everything up. The picture shows the final welds I put on the ends and transmission mount. I'll clean those up some and prolly just primer it. It'll prolly be sent out to be powdercoated with the other parts.

http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_1546.jpg


Then finally between the coats of paint drying and the welds to cooling down I got to playing with the gas struts from the hood. I didn't like the way they didn't open the hood only kept it open at certain angles. So I used them on the trunk and with two 90lbs struts the trunk goes up and down with ease!

http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_1549.jpg

http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_1550.jpg

Finally a video my wife helped me take of the trunk lid opening. Just need to find an electric trunk release now.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=424hdgJIF5s&feature=plcp

Riddler

[Riddler]

I painted the crossmember and bolted it up tonight. I then started tackling the floor and grew frustrated and walked away.

http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0203~0.jpg

I was going to make a cross brace over the top of the trans out of 1/2" bar stock and combine 2 of those with some 1/8"x2" steel flat stock. But I think I might go out and try and find some 2"x1/2"x1/8" U channel.

http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0202~0.jpg

Riddler

[Riddler]

I found some time today to get some work done. My goal was to button up the floor. I gave it my best but I failed. I did have a good start and wish some cardboard I can make templates and finally finish the floor.

Here's the bridge over the trans I made. It's 2"x1" C channel and has 1/8" plates to weld to the sheet metal floor.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_1659.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_1660.jpg

I've finished welding it up but never got a picture. I also clearenced a few sections so that I've 1/4" or more of space from the trans to the bridge.

I then moved on to messing with the pedals and hydroboost. I took all the brackets off the pedals I didn't need. Anyone looking for heavy duty 340 brackets etc?
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_1664.jpg

Here's what I was left with.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_1662.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_1663.jpg

I then mounted up the hydroboost. The brackets were perfectly to the firewall. Just have to take a hammer and smack a buldge down about 1/4". I then however stuck a hemi head on the driver's side and found that the hydroboost won't allow for the room needed to mount the valve covers.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_1665.jpg

I'm going to run to the laser cutters this week or early next week and see about getting another brackets cut for clock the hydroboost counter clockwise 90*. This will allow me the extra space I want to have to install and remove the valve covers. I'm also going to have to have a bracket made to clock the master back 90* in the other direction so it mounts flush.

Riddler

[Riddler]

Well I was able to get to the laser cutter to get my new improved 3rd gen hemi hydroboost brackets. This setup requires a 3/8" spacer plate and a 90* master cylinder bracket (1/8") on top of a new hydroboost bracket with the notch on the bottom to clock the hydroboost. I'm hoping to get some mockup pictures soon.

http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_1735.jpg

I'm sort of working on two ends of the car at once. I'm working on getting the trunk wrapped up as well as the body. For the truck I bought an electric trunk release. I'm not 100% sure how it works yet but I do plan on bench testing and hopefully playing with it in the car.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_1736.jpg

I then moved on to finally getting the floor completed. I've still got about half more to do but the main portion of the tunnel is completed. Just want to say that the T56 trans is HUGE!

First I spent time making a template till I was 100% happy with it.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_1724.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_1725.jpg

I then moved on to tracing the template to 16 gauge sheet metal.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_1729.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_1727.jpg

Finally I burned the sheet metal template into position. I'm still planning to clean the welds. I'm also planning to remove the engine and trans and complete the tunnel on the underside.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_1731.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_1733.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_1734.jpg

While I realize this might not be the way you would of done it, this is the way I chose to and it works for what I have in mind. Now to mock up the rear panel and a small sliver of metal for the passenger floor board and the floor should be done.

Riddler

[Riddler]

Well I'm super happy to annouce the floor is completly solid once again. I'd got to get some more seam seal and then lay that down and some POR15 inside and under the car the new tunnel is done.

This was a much bigger job than I expected and much larger than the mini-tub anyday!

Here's the final pics.

You can see small holes here from rust. I cut that out and replaced it.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0251.jpg

Banged all the metal flat again the new floor, welded it and then used clamping plyers to hold the seams together while I welded them shut.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0252.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0253.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0254.jpg

Here's the hole I made and replaced with new metal. This was super thin and I couldn't get the welder low enough to weld the holes shut without making more holes.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0255.jpg

The final look before seam seal, POR15 and then sound deadener.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0256.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0257.jpg

So the next things I'm going to work on are:

Shorten Steering Column
Fit hydroboost
Make base for the drive by wire gas pedal
Extend the fuel filler neck.

Riddler

[Riddler]

So believe it or not I found some time today to work on the car. While I didn't get a ton done I have actually touched the car for the first time in 6 weeks. Work and family life have been time consuming.

First thing I did was fabricate a gas pedal mount. I wanted something a little stronger to weld to the floor other than just nut and bolting the pedal to the sheet metal.

http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_1972.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_1973.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_1974.jpg

This gas pedal is an LX hemi gas pedal. If anyone wants one of the mounts just ask, I can have more cut. Tapping the holes and welding studs in will be an extra cost.

While my drill was charging I decided to finally finish painting the floor with POR15. I now know I'm goint to have to purchase some more POR15 as my gallon is almost gone. I'm guessing I can finish with a quart...

http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_1976.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_1975.jpg

Well I'll keep working on the car over the winter and hopefully be ready for paint by the spring... Let's hope I can afford it.

Riddler

[Riddler]

Well I ended up finding about two and half hours to work on the car today. I ended up using the first 30 minutes to clean up since it's been a at least a month since I've done really anything.

I decided I wanted more room for the hemi underhood and I "borrowed" tincup's inner fender mod idea.

Here's the before...

http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_2123.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_2124.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_2125.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_2126.jpg

As you can see everything outlined in black I'm planned to remove and weld flat panels in. I'm also going to remove everything from the firewall that's no longer needed.

Here's where I started...

http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_2127.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_2128.jpg

Well I guess it's time to put some metal back.

http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_2130.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_2131.jpg

As you can see I cut it really low giving me the maximum amount of room for the big ole Hemi underhood. :)

Here's how I'm going to solve the hole required for the alterKtion.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_2132.jpg

Once it's all welded in I'll break out the short hair fiberglass and make it look perfect.

Riddler

[Riddler]

I found some more time today as my wife took our son for dinner with friends. I started by burning in the plates for the chassis stiffening bars I made.

http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_2144.jpg

I then went ahead and filled all the holes in the inner fender. I'm planning to make it nice and smooth. Fiberglass with assist in that.

http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_2145.jpg

Afterwards I grinded down all the welds and made them look much better. It's ready for fiberglass and primer. The little bump is to help cover the top of the alterktion crossmember as I cut the panel too low. Now to match up the other side.

http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_2147.jpg

Finally took some time to fit the bar and burn it in. I can see how these stiffen up the car.

http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_2149.jpg

My plan is to seam seal this side and get it ready for POR15 or rocker guard. Haven't decided which one.

As soon as I find more time I'll get the driver's side done.

Riddler

[Riddler]

Well I'm mostly done welding up the metal around the engine bay. Enough that I could remove the front and rear suspension parts and take them to my new sponsor JP Coatings (http://www.jpcoatings.com) in Monroe, MI. Jeff know's his coating and can even do ceramic. If you want the number to JP Coating it's on his site or PM me.

Now onto the pictures..

Here are some of the parts stripped down to bear metal.

http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_2344.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_2345.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_2346.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_2348.jpg

Now onto the coated pictures. I did the RMS K frame and my custom T56 crossbrace in Chrome powdercoat.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_2352.jpg

The rest of my parts were done in Tiger Anthracite. Beautiful color!
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_2358.jpg

These covers were from an 03 Hemi and were heavy pitted. Came out pretty good for not really doing anything other than blasting.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_2359.jpg

Here are the 2 colours next to each other.

http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_2361.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_2362.jpg

I can't wait to go back and have more done.

Riddler

[Riddler]

So I finally found some time to do an update. Most of what I'm showing you is from the last two weeks. After I had all the suspension powdercoated by Jeff's Powder Coating in Monroe, MI, I had to clean every thread. This is slow and tedious work....

Everything went well uptill I started threading in the heim joints into the upper control arms. The driver's arm had some media dust in it and while threading the heim joint in I managed to gall the threads. After about five hours of cursing and heating the part, the heim joint locked up and not even two grow men hanging off a pipe could loosen it. We did manage to loosen the vice off my work bench.

Here's the upper control arm. You can see the powdercoating is gone from the torches we used. This part is garbage!
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_2425.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_2427.jpg

I just want to say that Bill at Reilly Motorsports has top notch customer service and sent me out another upper control arm. I'll remember to soak all the heims in anti-seize from now on!

Here's the assembly I have done upto this point.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_2510.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_2543.jpg

Now just remember each bolt hole and such had to be cleaned of powder.

Finally I needed a tool to screw in ball joints. This is what I had made by my laser cutter. I figured a nice 1/4" piece of steel would be better than the aluminum ones that another company sells.

http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_2552.jpg

Riddler

[Riddler]

Well here the info and pictures I missed from the last update. Goes to show I've actually done more work than whats posted.

I posted a while back that I bought the Duster specific Corbeau seat brackets. I was hoping that they would just bot in but that's never the case.

Here are the seat brackets and as you can see they don't fit my 1976 Duster floor that has the area for the cat converter. First is the driver's side and you can see the tabs don't line up with the holes and the bracket is at about a 30* angle. Passenger side is about the same. One hole doesn't line up and the main bracket interfers with the floor.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_2190.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_2191.jpg

Instead of cutting the floor out I chose to modify the brackets which was really simple. The white lines you see is where the brackets interfer with the floor. You can also see the tabs I had to cut off and reweld.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_2320.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_2321.jpg

Now the last things to to do with the seat brackets is to get them re-powder coated and bolt them in. Once that's done I'll tack weld the nuts on under the car so its easier to install the seats.

Here are the rest of the engine bay pics. I've completed the Tincup mod for the strut towers and makes for a ton of room.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_2192.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_2193.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_2194.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_2315.jpg

Here's the engine bay as it sits.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_2316.jpg

I'm saving up for my evaporator box from Vintage Air and then I plan to smooth out the firewall and relocate the wiper motor. A smooth firewall is sexy!

Riddler

[Riddler]

I spent some more time this weekend at the powdercoaters. I have to say I love this place.

This time I went over as he needed a smal hand around the shop. I took with me my seat brackets and wiper linkage.

Here's the pictures of that stuff. Before
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_2584.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_2585.jpg

After
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_2587.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_2596.jpg


So today after work I decided I wanted to put the seats in. So in they went. Needed to trim only two plates where the holes were.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_2609.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_2610.jpg


I then went ahead and started planning the firewall. My plan is to make it as clean as I can. I took this pictures and labeled it. The large "X" are getting shaved (welded up). The question marks and numbers are the holes I don't know what they are. Can you guys be of some help?

http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/firewall.jpg

Now remember I'm going protouring and I'll be using modern electronics and a Vintage Air kit for my hvac.

Riddler

[Riddler]

Well here's an update. I've done nothing on the car as life has kicked me in the butt. Working full time, a 2 year old (can you believe he's 2?) and having a pool installed have all led me to have no time to get anything done.

But why am I updating? Well I won an eBay auction last week close to home for a new power plant. But what about the 5.7L Hemi he was going to install? Well I'm selling all the 5.7L Hemi parts.

Here's the new power train ready to be installed. I just need a few things here and there. I'll get to that in a minute...
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_3141.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_3143.jpg

Just in case your a not upto date on these engines...
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_3142.jpg

So to update it a bit more I've been doing research into what oil pan and headers I need for this engine.

Riddler

[Riddler]

Well I'm trying to compete the metal work up so I can move on to mocking up the pedals, brakes, etc etc

The Duster firewall isn't smooth in a least bit, but that doesn't bother me. However I did have to cut the stock AC area out as I needed this area flat for the Vintage Air evaporator to sit against the firewall.

I marked the lines and cut it out.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_3236.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_3237.jpg

You can also see in the above picture the gas pedal area needed to cut a little. I needed the gas pedal to sit angled more towards the floor for driver comfort. Now I just need to weld that all shut again.

Then using a cardboard template I marked the steel for cutting.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_3238.jpg

After all that I welded it in. You can also see the AC bulkhead I welded in. I had to place it a small angle as the Hemi needs the room for valve cover removal.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_3239.jpg

I have the wiper area cut and removed as well. The next time I need to weld in a flat panel and all the useless holes.

Riddler

[Riddler]

Well back to work today...

My goal is to get the firwall as straight and smooth as possible. I've only got a few more holes to weld up, then a ton grinding and then fiberglass to smooth it.

Today involved welding the gas pedal mount solid. I've still have to make a plate for that area to make it look like the firewall is smooth. I then moved on towards the wiper motor area. I've cut it out and plans are to use a modern motor with a delay function. I snagged one out of a Dakota to use.

Wiper area cut out.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0028.jpg

Plate made and welded in.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0030.jpg

I also made a new top piece and made it look as factory as I can.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0031.jpg

Grinded it down smooth and it's ready for a thin application of short hair fiberglass.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0032.jpg

Different angle.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/DSC_0033~0.jpg


That's all for today.

Riddler

[Riddler]

OK so that's all the pictures of have and now I'm upto date. Please feel free to ask some questions or whatever.

Hopefully there some Mopar love on these forums.

Riddler

[GregWeld]

Nice work!



Best part of these projects is working with people you like hanging out with... it makes it all so much more fun. Sometimes you have good intentions of doing lots of work - and only end up getting pizza.... and going to the store with them for something they need... LOL


It's a journey -- enjoy it!

[GregWeld]

By the way --- NO on the short hair fiberglass.... just use a good quality bondo!


It's WAY easier to use and is the proper way to make this stuff flat and smooth...

You'll find that fiberglass doesn't really bond that well with metal...

[MTMouse]

Welcome to Lateral-G. I've been here for 5 years and you already have more post than me :whistling:

[Riddler]

Thanks for the heads up on the bondo. I was under the impression that short hair fiberglass was better to use for projects like this.

Tim yeah well I take more pictures than you. Your almost caught up to me. I really need to focus on smaller jobs and get them done.

I think I'm going to finish the fuel filler tube and the firewall. Then move onto the brakes.

Any pictures of the doors on the car yet? Maybe if I big you enough I can get you taking more pictures.

Riddler

[waynieZ]

Nice job it came out great.

[MTMouse]

Tim yeah well I take more pictures than you. Your almost caught up to me.
Any pictures of the doors on the car yet? Maybe if I bug you enough I can get you taking more pictures.

Riddler

I like to spend my time working on the car, rather than taking pictures.....:catfight:

[Riddler]

Spent most of the day in the garage working on the car. Today I wanted to start getting the firewall mocked up with the hydroboost and clutch master. So lets start with those.

Here's the hydroboost mockup.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_3318.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_3319.jpg

I still need a few things to bolt the rod to the pedal. I'm gonna have to buy a 3/8" heim joint and then cut the stock loop off and tap the rod.

I then spent 4-5 hours mocking up the clutch master.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_3320.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_3321.jpg

Here's what I've got going on under the dash (not done)
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/IMG_3322.jpg

I then dropped in the steering column to see how it looked. Well once that was in I could tell the driver's seat was about 2-2.5" too far to the left. So I moved it over 2" and its much better now. No I have to make the bracket fit again with new mounting tabs and then get it powercoated once again. Opps!

Riddler

[76orangewagon]

Since Dusters don't get much attention on a Camaro/GM dominated web site..... let me say that the work your doing is top notch and well thoughtout, keep up the good work. :thumbsup:

[instro84]

Nice work, good to see the duster getting attention.

[67goatman455]

Dang, lookin good!

[Riddler]

I'm missing a lot from this build as I keep forgetting I posted here.

Here's the latest....

Well I've been going at a turtle's pace getting the car wired. It's a huge job but I've been tackling one circuit at a time.

I started in the rear of the car and completed the taillight wiring.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/taillightwiring.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/taillightbucket.jpg

Here's a picture of me cleaning up the wiring.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/wiringcleanup.jpg

The wiring has all been pulled to where it needs to go.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/wiringmess.jpg

I chose to put the battery in the trunk.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/batterylocation.jpg
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/batterywiring.jpg

Here's what the mess under the dash looks like.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/dashwiringmess.jpg

My friend came over and did all the big wiring. Ran the main power and grounds from the trunk to the front. The large ground wire stops under the dash and continues through the firewall. I'm planning to have a few engine grounds.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/engineground.jpg

Finally if anyone needs new sockets for the front marker lights on a 73-76 grill. A pair of 95-99 Dodge Neon sockets clip right into the grill markers. This changes the bulbs to 1156/1157 which are brighter and better.
http://www.riddlerneon.com/gallery/albums/userpics/neonmarkersockets.jpg

Well I'll keep working on this wiring until I can start the car....

Riddler