The Spirit of '66 Build Thread: AutoX Stingray

[65_LS1_T56]

This is something I never dreamed I would have the chance to have (Actually it is the wife's car). After going to one autocross event and getting a few ride alongs, she asks on the way home, "when am I getting my own car?".
A couple of months later she's been looking at every possible make and model and keeps coming back to a 68 Chevelle. I'm totally fine with that as I'm now quite familiar with A-bodies after building my 65. Thought a two Chevelle family would be pretty cool. Actually as my oldest son, 11 now, will be inheriting a '70 El Camino when he gets closer to driving age. One big happy A-body family ;)

So her dad is over one day and starts talking about a Corvette a friend of his has in his garage. Can't remember if it's a 65 or 66, but he did know it was a custom car with flares and a "dated paint job". So we ask a hundred questions, he doesn't know the details and said he'll set up a visit to go look at it. She starts looking at mid-year Vettes now and seems to like them better than the Chevelles now...hmm.

So a few weeks go by and we finally go get to see the car. Turns out it is a 66 Stingray Coupe, 327/350hp car that was customized in '74. This guy has owned it since '76 and it's been up on jack stands since '91 in his garage.
Other than a cam and lifter swap, the guy says it's exactly the same as he bought it in '76. The odometer shows just under 50k, most things we've found would back that up as being legit.
As we uncovered the car the "dated paint job" made it's appearance. Wow, totally 70's, but actually we both really thought it was kinda cool. She definitely wants to leave it as is for now.


So how about some pictures, right?

The reason for the thread title, "Spirit of '66" you ask? (yep, it's on the L88 hood)
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/IMG_20130804_175815_052_zpsccf9d7c8.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/IMG_20130804_175815_052_zpsccf9d7c8.jpg.html)

Here is how it's sat for the last 22 years
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/IMG_20130804_174555_800_zpsff5e891e.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/IMG_20130804_174555_800_zpsff5e891e.jpg.html)

Did I mention the flares? lol, it's got lots of flair :D
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/IMG_20130804_175323_856_zps8e098240.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/IMG_20130804_175323_856_zps8e098240.jpg.html)

After getting it home and cleaning it up, it doesn't look too bad.
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/IMG_2206_zpsc6267224.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/IMG_2206_zpsc6267224.jpg.html)

Check out the funky "layered" stripes on the rear haunches:
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/IMG_2209_zpsf6fd2748.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/IMG_2209_zpsf6fd2748.jpg.html)

better shot of the stripes before washing it, how wild is that??
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/IMG_2196_zps942e9942.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/IMG_2196_zps942e9942.jpg.html)

Here is a view of the stripes coming off the hood:
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/IMG_2189_zps4f639a71.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/IMG_2189_zps4f639a71.jpg.html)

I'm sure some keen eyes will say it's a 67, but it's just the side gills from a '67 grafted in when it was customized. The front bumpers cut and put on the rear (?), the chin spoiler, turn signals behind grill, L88 style hood, massive flares, all custom touches from almost 40 years ago.

Still has the ARE Daisy wheels, 15x8 and 15x10 with Firestone "Parnelli Jones" tires! Those should make nice garage art.
The paint has a lot of chips and scratches mostly from it being in the way in the garage for so long I'd suspect. Oh well, life's scars.

As far as numbers matching stuff if you are into that, yeah, it's mostly all there. The block is a "CE" replacement block from '68. The Muncie is matching, the heads, Winters Foundry marked manifold, original date coded Holley carb and radiator are all in place. Even the water pump is original. We have every intention of preserving any and all parts that are from the car. However, we also have every intention on modifying this car further to be a fun and hopefully competitive AutoX car.
Intially we will be using the original 327 with some changes for safety (better, baffled oil pan), as a power plant. The 4 speed as well. Suspension wise, that's up in the air yet but it won't involve many original parts for sure. Brakes will be upgraded to C6 Z06 calipers and rotors.

Motor pic, yes we know the fan and upper rad hose is not correct, and yes we have the original air cleaner assembly with it:
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/IMG_2203_zps5d3c0c60.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/IMG_2203_zps5d3c0c60.jpg.html)
Interior is probably the weakest part of the car. It looked much better in the dark garage...It was originally Bright Blue, some painted, some dyed, some parts replaced with black parts.
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/IMG_2204_zps9aed5d3a.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/IMG_2204_zps9aed5d3a.jpg.html)

So that's it for the introduction of The Spirit of '66, hope you like it. We'll post pics as things happen.

[bulldogchevy]

:) I love it

[coolwelder62]

I'm really startin too dig Vette's.First Danny Pop,Now you.May have get one also!!!!!!.Cool Car.

[56pickup]

Sweet project! The old daisy wheels don't look bad and they match the paint good! Can't wait to see what you guys do with it! Saw your Chevelle over the weekend and turned out awesome!

[65 347]

Very cool, I dig it!

[Sieg]

This thread could get interesting! :thumbsup:

[65_LS1_T56]

:) I love it
We do too

I'm really startin too dig Vette's.First Danny Pop,Now you.May have get one also!!!!!!.Cool Car.
I've been in contact with Danny about it. He does know how to make one work. Hey, missed you at Indy this past weekend

Sweet project! The old daisy wheels don't look bad and they match the paint good! Can't wait to see what you guys do with it! Saw your Chevelle over the weekend and turned out awesome!
Hey, you should have stopped and said hi. I was giving rides all weekend :drive: Thank you.

Very cool, I dig it!
It's "groovy" man :lol: , thanks! The car is a blast from the past.

This thread could get interesting! :thumbsup:
I hope it does Sieg. Boy, they are diffent animals from what I'm used to wrenching on. That back trailing arm/IRS(sort of), transverse leaf cluster setup is weird. Might start from scratch and design and build something different back there. :weld:
I'll try to keep it interesting. This is a real time build, but there has been a little disassembly so far from the pictures above.

[Payton King]

Have a 68 I can trade, maybe some cash too?

I am diggin the paint job!

[65_LS1_T56]

Have a 68 I can trade, maybe some cash too?

I am diggin the paint job!

Lol, Ron already called first dibs! Though a tempting offer, I'm not in a position to negotiate..its hers and she can't wait to drive it.

Thanks Payton

[bdahlg68]

Yup. Subscribed. When is she coming home from Billy's? Or is she already?

[GrabberGT]

Very cool. Leave the outside the way it is.


Subscribed

[65_LS1_T56]

Yup. Subscribed. When is she coming home from Billy's? Or is she already?

Geez, spoiler alert!
The deeper we get, the longer it'll be there. I'll be posting more progress pics later.

[65_LS1_T56]

Very cool. Leave the outside the way it is.


Subscribed

Yep, that's the plan. It has to be seen like this :lostmarbles:

[65_LS1_T56]

So as promised more pics, and since the cat is out of the bag...Thanks Brian :buttkick: the car is at B&B Classics now. Yes, that one, headed up by the one and only Billy Utely. It couldn't be in better hands.

We sent it there to have a few things done, upgrade the brakes and to get it running and driving so we could figure out what it needed. Well, two weeks later it has had a few parts removed...
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/IMG957766_zps32ae2d92.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/IMG957766_zps32ae2d92.jpg.html)

Oh and this :confused59: :
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/IMG956523_zps36bc1a2c.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/IMG956523_zps36bc1a2c.jpg.html)
Good thing we did go this far as the frame has some damage that needs to be addressed.

Here is the rest of it, sitting in the "skunkworx" room, lol
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/jill1_zpse62013a7.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/jill1_zpse62013a7.jpg.html)

[RussMurco]

Call me weird, I say keep the body modifications as-is!!! I LOVE IT!!!
You could maybe put some Grand Sport touches on it but I'm really digging the 70's fat-tire look! Can't wait to see what you make of it!!!

[ChuckDriver]

Sweet Vette!

[65_LS1_T56]

Call me weird, I say keep the body modifications as-is!!! I LOVE IT!!!
You could maybe put some Grand Sport touches on it but I'm really digging the 70's fat-tire look! Can't wait to see what you make of it!!!
Thanks Weird!
love the GS mods also...maybe next go around with the body and color change.

We like the look too of the fat tires, but they really don't lend themselves to high cornering loads in the autox... most likely end up with a 18/18 or 18/19 combo.

Sweet Vette!
:thankyou:

[bdahlg68]

Geez, spoiler alert!
The deeper we get, the longer it'll be there. I'll be posting more progress pics later.

I was vague - kind of. :innocent:

[bdahlg68]

http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/IMG957766_zps32ae2d92.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/IMG957766_zps32ae2d92.jpg.html)



What is that new frame in the background??? :ohsnap:

[65_LS1_T56]

What is that new frame in the background??? :ohsnap:

Why yes it is. Not for the Vette, but a Nova for another customer.

[57hemicuda]

Damn it!!!, I'm never going to talk your wife out of that car now. The funky 70's paint scheme is really growing on me, kind of making me want to dig out a Foghat 8 track.

[GregWeld]

This is THE car and body mods we all wanted to do to our Corvettes in the early 70's.... I like the fact that they left the headlights alone - because the worst mod ever was when they glassed 'em up and put those crap rectangles down in the grill.


#1 -- I would absolutely leave the flares on it - particularly if you plan to autocross it. You can't get much tire under these cars without them. Plus -- they're just badass.


#2 -- Since the CE motor is worth virtually nothing -- stick a nice crate LS motor in there and a 5 or 6 speed

#3 -- These cars are HOT --- the floorboards get hot (less so with the side exhaust) and on hot days will burn your feet... So if you really want her to drive it and enjoy it -- think about A/C


#4 -- If you have kids -- THEY WILL BURN THEIR LEGS on the side exhaust no matter how many times you warn them --- ask me how I know this.


#5 -- You will have a LINE of people that want to buy this car everywhere you go - every day - day in and day out. That's the very best part of owning a mid year. '69 Camaro's got nothing on mid year 'Vettes

[fxdlryan]

Aaron - That paint job is Pimptastic, I'd change everything suspension wise and rock that paint job like it was still 1976.

[WSSix]

Love the car! Glad you plan to keep the paint as is for a while.

Greg's #5 is spot on. Get used to simply saying Hi it's not for sale when introducing yourself.

[65_LS1_T56]

Damn it!!!, I'm never going to talk your wife out of that car now. The funky 70's paint scheme is really growing on me, kind of making me want to dig out a Foghat 8 track.
Good one Ron. She's gonna be a hard sell to talk her out of it for sure.
Nice talking to you today too.

Aaron - That paint job is Pimptastic, I'd change everything suspension wise and rock that paint job like it was still 1976.
Thanks Ryan, lol it's different that's for sure :wacko:

Love the car! Glad you plan to keep the paint as is for a while.

Greg's #5 is spot on. Get used to simply saying Hi it's not for sale when introducing yourself.
I've already had a few interested in it...crazy, but they are an iconic design for sure. Thanks!

[65_LS1_T56]

This is THE car and body mods we all wanted to do to our Corvettes in the early 70's.... I like the fact that they left the headlights alone - because the worst mod ever was when they glassed 'em up and put those crap rectangles down in the grill.
Hehe, hoped you would check in Greg. I was only 3 when the car was customized, so I'll have to believe you. I hear you on the rectangular lights though, I've seen them and it ruins the look. These flares don't look too bad IMO.

#1 -- I would absolutely leave the flares on it - particularly if you plan to autocross it. You can't get much tire under these cars without them. Plus -- they're just badass.
Yep, that's a roger, they are staying for now and probably if we ever do a repaint down the road. Infact, I may consider raising the front flares a bit more to be able to get the nose down. If you follow the body crease line down the car, you'll see what I mean (front arch is on the line where the rear is above it)
#2 -- Since the CE motor is worth virtually nothing -- stick a nice crate LS motor in there and a 5 or 6 speed
Talk to me on this: As far as I've concluded, only the block has been replaced. Heads on up are correct to 66. LS motor is definitely in it's future, but down the road a way.
#3 -- These cars are HOT --- the floorboards get hot (less so with the side exhaust) and on hot days will burn your feet... So if you really want her to drive it and enjoy it -- think about A/C
Point taken. We are in MI, so long times of hot weather (to compound the hot car) are few and far. Heck we're already in the upper 50's now :shakehead: However, sitting in lines at events, things do get warm I've noticed...
#4 -- If you have kids -- THEY WILL BURN THEIR LEGS on the side exhaust no matter how many times you warn them --- ask me how I know this.
LOL, kids?? I've already smoked mine :mad: We are looking into some heat shield options, maybe something custom. We love the side pipe look, and especially the sound :bigun2:

#5 -- You will have a LINE of people that want to buy this car everywhere you go - every day - day in and day out. That's the very best part of owning a mid year. '69 Camaro's got nothing on mid year 'Vettes
Never thought we'd be "Covette people", but I already know what you mean.
Should be a fun journey. So many things I want to do to it, unfortunately there are so many things we have to do to it first.
Thanks for your comments GW.

[GregWeld]

I still have dreams about the mid year that had just got painted and was sitting at Dee Westcotts (Yes the body manufacturer) -- it was pearl white -- with two blue candy stripes -- side exhaust (the header into chromed aftermarket versions)... duck tail -- flares... and Tiger Paw wide ovals....

I think I was 16 or 17 at the time. That car has haunted my dreams... it was pure perfection. We all wanted the Trans Am look back then (that would have been 1969ish).

+++++++++++++++++++++


My point on the motor -- nothing wrong per se with a CE motor.... it's just a factory replacement. Might have been a warranty issue back then -- you know - like the idiot blew it up -- or floated the valves til they let go.... or maybe it was just a factory oil eater.

You want to keep the motor and all the stuff.... you don't want to separate them. BUT --- a good quality rebuild will cost you several grand -- and for about the same money you can have a far superior engine.... Of course there's more to it than just the motor -- because it'd be EFI so you have pumps and all that jazz.... But my 2 cents worth would be to have a car that was totally reliable and leak free for the bride. Your car - your dime - you do it the way you see fit.

She may also want an automatic - the new ones are so dang good.

Also -- best cheap money improvement on these is the single rear phenolic leaf spring...

With these old Vettes - just make sure you have a plan and the people working on it realize what these "old junk parts" are worth.... Vette stuff fetches some good prices if you decide to sell off the pieces you don't want -- but keep in mind -- once you do -- you've destroyed a lot of value down the road. The real money in these is in a restoration not the resto mod. Having said that -- I'd never own one that was stock... I'll let the collectors of the world have 'em. They pack 'em away in cotton balls and brag about their certificate they got at the last "meet". Been there done that. BORING.

Just sayin that if you tear into it -- and have the motor redone - the guy will deck that block and wipe out the CE stamp and the factory broach marks -- and then you'll have absolutely nothing but an old block. So these are things to learn about.

[GregWeld]

Just another thought after I read the last post ---- A GM crate motor rather than an LS motor --- Like the 350 HO motor can be bought complete carb to pan for way less than the cost of a rebuild... so maybe you just clean up the old CE motor - and park it as a conversation piece. Drive the new crate motor -- they even come with warranty's!

[waynieZ]

I love it. It brings me back to my younger days!

[G-Vette]

:hello:everyone... Thanks for the nice comments/suggestions on my ride...but I have to tell you....absolutely no on the automatic. :thankyou:

[GregWeld]

:hello:everyone... Thanks for the nice comments/suggestions on my ride...but I have to tell you....absolutely no on the automatic. :thankyou:




FINE!


I was only thinking of you dear.....




:lol: :lol: :lol:

[G-Vette]

Didn't mean it that way...just looking forward to driving it as a manual... It's half the fun

[GregWeld]

Didn't mean it that way...just looking forward to driving it as a manual... It's half the fun



Absolutely agree!

[65_LS1_T56]

Absolutely agree!

That's all I do too Greg, just agree :waveflag:
At least she knows what she wants! She started out driving a stick in 19xx (wait, I shouldn't say:underchair: )
If we and when we go to the LS platform, I'd like something simple and straight forward. Maybe a LS3 with a good torquey cam.

[Sieg]

:hello:everyone... Thanks for the nice comments/suggestions on my ride...but I have to tell you....absolutely no on the automatic. :thankyou:

Welcome Jill :hello:

I like your style! :thumbsup:

[65_LS1_T56]

Just another picture, for Ron S. :headspin:
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/IMG950197_zpsaf7a2adb.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/IMG950197_zpsaf7a2adb.jpg.html)

[bdahlg68]

Those pictures are a nice distraction, but the details are still mysterious! What the heck is B&B doing to this thing? Clearly, the scope has crept since I saw the car!

[65_LS1_T56]

Those pictures are a nice distraction, but the details are still mysterious! What the heck is B&B doing to this thing? Clearly, the scope has crept since I saw the car!

Good question, I think Billy has something in mind. We just need to find out what that is :headscratch:

After dropping the frame, there was previous damage (no real surprise I guess). A questionable repair was made in the passenger sided rear section that we are going to address now. Vette Products has any and all original frame sections and brackets available. The own the original A.O. Smith frame dies. They are in Lk. Orion too, so close to us.
After the frame gets blasted, we'll get a list of everything it needs then get it back in suitable condition.
One of the rear body mounts is also broken from the fiberglass, so we will have someone that is versed in the "itchy stuff" come and take a look at that.

Hopefully we can move on after those items are addressed to reassembly.

[57hemicuda]

Just another picture, for Ron S. :headspin:
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/IMG950197_zpsaf7a2adb.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/IMG950197_zpsaf7a2adb.jpg.html)

Bastard!!

[65_LS1_T56]

Bastard!!

:rofl:

[Code510]

Wow this car is flat out awesome!!! Love it.

I clicked on it and thought "I didn't remember seeing a Corvette in your garage!" Then realized you just picked it up.

Way cool. I'm jealous. I've never been much of a Vette fan, but I dig this body style. I think it would make a killer AutoX car.

[Evan Iroc-Z]

If my wife reads this out of context I will be sleeping in the garage, but

That is one of the sexiest bodies I have ever seen.

I am really glad to read you guys are not changing that at all. It looks fantastic and the paint is so cool.

[65_LS1_T56]

That is one of the sexiest bodies I have ever seen.

I am really glad to read you guys are not changing that at all. It looks fantastic and the paint is so cool.

But my wife hasn't posted a picture of herself yet :wow:

Hey :thankyou:

[65_LS1_T56]

Wow this car is flat out awesome!!! Love it.

I clicked on it and thought "I didn't remember seeing a Corvette in your garage!" Then realized you just picked it up.

Way cool. I'm jealous. I've never been much of a Vette fan, but I dig this body style. I think it would make a killer AutoX car.

Thanks Tim, yeah we just got it in August. stay tuned :popcorn2:

[tommycomfort]

Guess it is no secret that I am in love with it!

[FETorino]

After getting it home and cleaning it up, it doesn't look too bad.

Check out the funky "layered" stripes on the rear haunches:
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/IMG_2209_zpsf6fd2748.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/IMG_2209_zpsf6fd2748.jpg.html)

better shot of the stripes before washing it, how wild is that??
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/IMG_2196_zps942e9942.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/IMG_2196_zps942e9942.jpg.html)


http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/IMG_2189_zps4f639a71.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/IMG_2189_zps4f639a71.jpg.html)




Just had to stop in and say that your wife C2 score is awesome. Man I hope you don't touch the retro paint. :king:

:cheers:

[65_LS1_T56]

Just had to stop in and say that your wife C2 score is awesome. Man I hope you don't touch the retro paint. :king:

:cheers:

Thanks Rob, it's a pretty neat car. The paint will stay as is for now.

[groovyjay]

This car is so freaking cool! :confused59:

[65_LS1_T56]

This car is so freaking cool! :confused59:

Thanks Jay! The car's story just got a little cooler recently, see below :D

[65_LS1_T56]

Well it's been awhile, not that alot has gotten done but we had to share the best thing we've heard about the Vette so far...mostly been bad news everytime we dug a little deeper. Which one of those was the fact that the #4 body mount and rear tub had some previous crash damage. After a few guys looked at they recommended a professional fiberglass guy fix it. One recommendation led us to Paragon Corvette in Swartz Creek, MI about 1/2 hour from our place.

Two and a half months later, they had an opening for us to take the car to get some structural work done. Great guys there, very knowledgeable and made us feel very confident. After the head guy, Ken, looked it over good he found some things that also needed attention so we agreed to fix them while it was there.

Ken has been doing Vettes only since the early 80's so he's seen it all. He was telling us how its so rare to see an untouched car, especially a C2, that has been that way for going on 40 years. He mentioned the 80s and 90s were all about undoing all the custom 70s stuff and going back to original. Now, it's been changing and guys are wanting the "day 2" or period custom looks. What's old is new again theme I guess. Anyway he has a friend that he though might like to see our car so he sent him a pic and asked if he knew anything about it...the friend replied, your joking right? I built that car he said! I guess he was amazed that a car he built and painted in '75/'76 is first of all still around, and second still wearing the paint he laid on it. So he proceeded over to Paragon yesterday and had a reunion with the car. Best part is he brought pictures of when he was building the car, and from the Detroit Autorama in 1976! He left his contact info and wants to meet us to talk about it some more. He said he even has the 3rd (iirc) place plaque that he got at the show and if he could find it would give it to us.

So, on to some pictures. He gave us several, but I cherry picked a few that I thought were cool. Even the Parnelli Joes tires are on it in the pictures, amazing.
Before the graphics were on:
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/66%20Vette%20Previous%20Owner%20pics/EPSON001_zps79ba6a11.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/66%20Vette%20Previous%20Owner%20pics/EPSON001_zps79ba6a11.jpg.html)

Looks just like this now (well before we took it apart lol) except the picture is dated '76.
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/66%20Vette%20Previous%20Owner%20pics/EPSON002_zpsdf6ae1e5.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/66%20Vette%20Previous%20Owner%20pics/EPSON002_zpsdf6ae1e5.jpg.html)

Autorama 1976 pictures:
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/66%20Vette%20Previous%20Owner%20pics/EPSON003_zpsdd1f975e.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/66%20Vette%20Previous%20Owner%20pics/EPSON003_zpsdd1f975e.jpg.html)
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/66%20Vette%20Previous%20Owner%20pics/EPSON004_zps0ea24bc2.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/66%20Vette%20Previous%20Owner%20pics/EPSON004_zps0ea24bc2.jpg.html)
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/66%20Vette%20Previous%20Owner%20pics/EPSON005_zps6f2c2b4e.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/66%20Vette%20Previous%20Owner%20pics/EPSON005_zps6f2c2b4e.jpg.html)

And it had a cross ram intake on it for awhile..also amazing as it came with the Winters aluminum intake and Holley card both date coded to the car when we bought it.
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/66%20Vette%20Previous%20Owner%20pics/EPSON006_zps77382543.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/66%20Vette%20Previous%20Owner%20pics/EPSON006_zps77382543.jpg.html)

So that was a refreshing experience for us. Ken did an awesome job on the repairs and I would highly recommend them for Corvette work. We dropped the car off at 6:30 Tuesday night, picked it up 5:30 Friday evening, done. No complaints there.

So we've got a new factory replacement frame on order...since mid-November last year...that's not going so great. Hope to get it in 4 weeks, probably another 8 at the rate its going. But we did get a bunch of parts from VanSteel, some new stainless headers and side pipes and some other items. Not as much progress as I'd like, but we're hope to get going on it again soon.

Hope everyone likes the vintage pics as much as we do.

[57hemicuda]

This was already my favorite car, the history just makes it that much better. It makes me think back to what a big deal the bicentennial was. Can't wait to see this on the road again. Wishing I could have talked you into a custom frame, have a couple cool ideas, I guess I'll have to same them for my midyear.LOL

[WSSix]

Really awesome twist on the story of an already cool car, Aaron.

[71RS/SS396]

Aaron, you should see if you can buy 3 piece wheel halves and whittle up some centers that look like the 200S wheels.

[tommycomfort]

Flat out awesome!

[65_LS1_T56]

Aaron, you should see if you can buy 3 piece wheel halves and whittle up some centers that look like the 200S wheels.
You know Tim, I haven't even thought of that. That's not a bad idea :headscratch: :headscratch:
Because I actually like the look of the wheels, they're just 3"s too small in diameter and 2+" in width...hmm. I do know a guy that could machine centers..
Flat out awesome!

Thanks Tom. Can't wait to talk to the guy that built it.

[GregWeld]

Love it!


Nobody but me notice the stanchion made from the cam with a rod on it for height. Love stuff like that.

[65_LS1_T56]

Love it!


Nobody but me notice the stanchion made from the cam with a rod on it for height. Love stuff like that.

:lol: no I sure didn't. Its probably the original L79 cam. According to the PO, he said the cam has been swapped to a solid Isky cam.

[Rick D]

Wow Aaron this Vett just gets better and better!! I love the old history this cars have, it's got to be sooooo cool to find the guy that built the car back in the day.

[Ricochet]

Just chewed through the whole thread. First off, props to your wife for getting involved in this sickness we all have! That's really cool! In regards to the car - what can I say that hasn't been said? Everything about it is just spot on. Wouldn't change a thing about it on the outside. The history you now have on the car even validates it's coolness even more. I'll be watching this one!

[glassman]

Just chewed through the whole thread. First off, props to your wife for getting involved in this sickness we all have! That's really cool! In regards to the car - what can I say that hasn't been said? Everything about it is just spot on. Wouldn't change a thing about it on the outside. The history you now have on the car even validates it's coolness even more. I'll be watching this one!

Yeah me too.....this is going to be fun watching it come together. Love this car, that retro paint. And with the "proper" wheels/tires fitting into those wells, just dessert to the eye.....

[65_LS1_T56]

This was already my favorite car, the history just makes it that much better. It makes me think back to what a big deal the bicentennial was. Can't wait to see this on the road again. Wishing I could have talked you into a custom frame, have a couple cool ideas, I guess I'll have to same them for my midyear.LOL
Ron, Ron, Ron...just finish the AMX first please I'm really looking forward to see it done and out there!
Yeah, maybe the custom frame would be here by now, geez.
I did talk to the guy that built it this morning, he remembers everything like it was last week, unbelievable.

Really awesome twist on the story of an already cool car, Aaron.
Thanks Trey. It will stand out in a crowd that's for sure :D

Wow Aaron this Vett just gets better and better!! I love the old history this cars have, it's got to be sooooo cool to find the guy that built the car back in the day.
Yes it is, and I did speak with him this morning, cool guy. Still into vettes, has 3 I believe still. A C1, C2, and a C3. He said the flares on our car are actually C3 L88 flares that had a GM part number on them. Obviously he massaged them to fit the C2.

Just chewed through the whole thread. First off, props to your wife for getting involved in this sickness we all have! That's really cool! In regards to the car - what can I say that hasn't been said? Everything about it is just spot on. Wouldn't change a thing about it on the outside. The history you now have on the car even validates it's coolness even more. I'll be watching this one!

Thanks Brent, we are really trying to keep the outside the way it is. You can't replicate that.

Yeah me too.....this is going to be fun watching it come together. Love this car, that retro paint. And with the "proper" wheels/tires fitting into those wells, just dessert to the eye.....

The wheels are going to be a huge decision since we are keeping the outside. It has to go with it, but it has to be a bit more modern size-wise. Have to think on this some more. Thanks Mike.

[fxdlryan]

The story makes the car even cooler, if that's possible.

[zo6s10]

Great car and the story just makes it get so much better. I am in love with the paint. Was born in '76 and remember watching cars like this (and Vans) that were the coolest things ever just rot away and die. From 3 years old all I wanted was a car with big flairs and crazy paint, maybe that's how "what is old is new again" works.

Maybe get the original builder to restore the paint? That could make you a trend setter in the PT world. And IMHO that is just a cool paint job and body work, you got lucky there. Some of those 70's cars were too much but yours is awesome.

This maybe my new favorite build, Ron's AMX just got bumped I think :poke:

[Solid LT1]

If you need build funds the carb/intake and various motor parts can command quite a price amongst the NCRS guys. That 66 has power brakes, your brake a master cylinder was worth over $1000 at one point. I think there are repops now but still. The guys at Paragon can help you out on values. Just saying this as I'm contemplating selling parts off my numbers matching 72 LT-1 for my LS3 swap.....let's see...CNC port job...for price of my "950" alternator...mmmm:idea:

[65_LS1_T56]

The story makes the car even cooler, if that's possible.
Thanks Ryan. We were pretty excited to hear about the builder and to get to talk to him.

Great car and the story just makes it get so much better. I am in love with the paint. Was born in '76 and remember watching cars like this (and Vans) that were the coolest things ever just rot away and die. From 3 years old all I wanted was a car with big flairs and crazy paint, maybe that's how "what is old is new again" works.

Maybe get the original builder to restore the paint? That could make you a trend setter in the PT world. And IMHO that is just a cool paint job and body work, you got lucky there. Some of those 70's cars were too much but yours is awesome.

This maybe my new favorite build, Ron's AMX just got bumped I think :poke:
Hey thanks for the comments Eric. Funny about the original builder...now he couldn't fathom cutting a corvette up. He's now a original, numbers matching kind of guy. He said he was in his 20's when he did ours and at the time it was the thing to do.

I can guarantee Ron's AMX thread will be more exciting than this one. The first phase of the Vette will be get it back together and go out and beat on it a little. I'm sure we'll make improvements along the way.

If you need build funds the carb/intake and various motor parts can command quite a price amongst the NCRS guys. That 66 has power brakes, your brake a master cylinder was worth over $1000 at one point. I think there are repops now but still. The guys at Paragon can help you out on values. Just saying this as I'm contemplating selling parts off my numbers matching 72 LT-1 for my LS3 swap.....let's see...CNC port job...for price of my "950" alternator...mmmm:idea:

We've talked a little about doing just that. But in the end, we feel it's important to just sit on the original parts that came with the car. Some of the pieces are kinda silly on what their value is..but hey, they aren't making '66 Corvettes anymore.

[FLYNAVY53]

Cool build! I just bought a numbers matching '69 roadster and Im having the same dilemma....store the original parts as I build this thing, or sell them to help fund the build. Car has 45K original miles on it....

[andreb]

I am loving this build and the throw back pictures! I became the proud owner of a '64 Coupe last year and the original owner just gave me a few pics from the '70's last week. Great to have those. Thanks for sharing your build, I am glued to this one.

[k7king]

Cool Build Aaron.
I'm working on a 67 myself.
tuned in to watch yours.
Mike

[wiedemab]

not sure how I missed this thread -- - - Awesome!

[65_LS1_T56]

Cool build! I just bought a numbers matching '69 roadster and Im having the same dilemma....store the original parts as I build this thing, or sell them to help fund the build. Car has 45K original miles on it....
If you can hold on to them, I would. They are only original to a particular car once. Parts like that are easy to sell, but hard to buy later.

I am loving this build and the throw back pictures! I became the proud owner of a '64 Coupe last year and the original owner just gave me a few pics from the '70's last week. Great to have those. Thanks for sharing your build, I am glued to this one.
Cool, the old pics are nice to have aren't they.

Cool Build Aaron.
I'm working on a 67 myself.
tuned in to watch yours.
Mike
Got a thread started yet Mike?

not sure how I missed this thread -- - - Awesome!
Geez Brandon, where you been? Working on a garage or something? :D

[chichirone]

Aaron, I just read through your entire thread. Totally awesome. (To quote one of the other replies: PIMPTASTIC!) The story of the car and the builder is very cool. Plus, it's your wives. Too cool. My wife kind of took the same path...go for a ride, drive a couple times and then "honey, when do I get my own". Now we are building a 73 Trans Am...HER CAR!

Don't change a thing on how you are approaching the build. The paint is totally badass and those flares with the wheel combo is just perfect. There has to be somebody that can "machine" a replica center and 18" outside hoop painted to be "period correct" in a wide width for the 76 custom theme. EVOD did the wheels on our TA, they are 18x12" rally II replica's that turned out great. Those flares could swallow a tire pretty quickly. I can't wait to hear it screaming around an auto-x, pipes bellowing and the sun hitting those layers of color. Based upon crazy paint trends seen at SEMA, your Vette will be mainstream again.

I just want to know what color fuzzy dice will be hanging from the mirror and if bell bottoms were found in the glove box. Subscribed.

[65_LS1_T56]

Aaron, I just read through your entire thread. Totally awesome. (To quote one of the other replies: PIMPTASTIC!) The story of the car and the builder is very cool. Plus, it's your wives. Too cool. My wife kind of took the same path...go for a ride, drive a couple times and then "honey, when do I get my own". Now we are building a 73 Trans Am...HER CAR!

Don't change a thing on how you are approaching the build. The paint is totally badass and those flares with the wheel combo is just perfect. There has to be somebody that can "machine" a replica center and 18" outside hoop painted to be "period correct" in a wide width for the 76 custom theme. EVOD did the wheels on our TA, they are 18x12" rally II replica's that turned out great. Those flares could swallow a tire pretty quickly. I can't wait to hear it screaming around an auto-x, pipes bellowing and the sun hitting those layers of color. Based upon crazy paint trends seen at SEMA, your Vette will be mainstream again.

I just want to know what color fuzzy dice will be hanging from the mirror and if bell bottoms were found in the glove box. Subscribed.

haha, thanks Jay..I'm so glad other people are seeing what we did when the garage door opened at the previous owner's house. It's just too cool to change it. It really does need some touchup work mainly just from being in the way for 22 years on jack stands. But hey, at least the dry-rotted tires don't have flat spots lol.

Oh, I've been following your TA build. I had the pleasure of meeting Albert at the PRI show last December, great guy. Looks like the TA is going to be very nice!

About the wheels, if it does get custom wheels, I will be making them. I've not done wheels before, but I've done a few "cool" parts before :headspin:
I own a engineering, design and build company. So I have access to solid modeling(CAD), CAM, and CNC machines. I'm pretty sure I can buy two piece hoops and hopefully a forged billet for the centers that I can design and machine. The more I ponder this, the more I want to do it. I love a challenge.
There is around 15" from the frame to the outer lip in the back, so yeah, should be room for some rollers :guns:
Haven't thought about the dice, but good call and no bell bottoms were found... but the wife has to wear them with a tie dye shirt when she drives. :D

[Flash68]

Call me weird, I say keep the body modifications as-is!!! I LOVE IT!!!
You could maybe put some Grand Sport touches on it but I'm really digging the 70's fat-tire look! Can't wait to see what you make of it!!!

Dude. Totally. Love this. Not sure how I missed it.

Very cool, Aaron.

[k7king]

No I haven't started a thread yet. I'm just getting started on it. Was red big block car. Definitely keep the paint.....looks cool.
Mike

[65_LS1_T56]

Dude. Totally. Love this. Not sure how I missed it.

Very cool, Aaron.
Geez where have you been? lol . I thought mods saw everything here :bitchslap:

No I haven't started a thread yet. I'm just getting started on it. Was red big block car. Definitely keep the paint.....looks cool.
Mike
Looking forward to another vette build here Mike.

[65_LS1_T56]

So I mentioned taking the car to Paragon Covette (https://www.paragoncorvette.com/) for some fiberglass work, but I don't think I showed the damage beforehand. Here is a picture from inside the car in the back "trunk" area...not sure what you call that open space in a Vette lol.
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Fiberglass/inside2_zps2f65485d.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Fiberglass/inside2_zps2f65485d.jpg.html)

Here is the outside showing the #4 body mount
The red loop is a patch I circled...the red line on the right is how far it was cracked.
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Fiberglass/fromwheelwell_zps86b70f4a.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Fiberglass/fromwheelwell_zps86b70f4a.jpg.html)
quite and ugly "fix" as you can see.
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Fiberglass/fromrearaxleup_zpsc031c346.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Fiberglass/fromrearaxleup_zpsc031c346.jpg.html)

I'll take some pictures of Paragons repair and post them up tomorrow. The car is at my shop in the heat as the glass work needs to dry for awhile.

[ZMAN1969]

Man that brings me back to the late 70's when this was the norm- only cool vette was custom amazing it survived so well for that long, I dig it man!

:beavis:

[zo6s10]

Hey thanks for the comments Eric. Funny about the original builder...now he couldn't fathom cutting a corvette up. He's now a original, numbers matching kind of guy. He said he was in his 20's when he did ours and at the time it was the thing to do.

I can guarantee Ron's AMX thread will be more exciting than this one. The first phase of the Vette will be get it back together and go out and beat on it a little. I'm sure we'll make improvements along the way.I love Ron's AMX build because its home built - diff cover. My first car movie was "Corvette Summer". So you know the glass work is awesome to me! Very interesting build. If you show some 80 year old spraying laquare (spell), then you will be my idol :thumbsup:

[65_LS1_T56]

Man that brings me back to the late 70's when this was the norm- only cool vette was custom amazing it survived so well for that long, I dig it man!

:beavis:
:thankyou:

I love Ron's AMX build because its home built - diff cover. My first car movie was "Corvette Summer". So you know the glass work is awesome to me! Very interesting build. If you show some 80 year old spraying laquare (spell), then you will be my idol :thumbsup:
Lol, I'll see what I can come up with for a picture!

[65_LS1_T56]

Been out since Tuesday night with some wicked flu-like crud, but I did get a few pics of the repaired body mount.http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Fiberglass/IMG_20140207_113321_857_zpsvf2uveng.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Fiberglass/IMG_20140207_113321_857_zpsvf2uveng.jpg.html)http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Fiberglass/IMG_20140207_113212_607_zpsk0fup5pa.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Fiberglass/IMG_20140207_113212_607_zpsk0fup5pa.jpg.html)

[k7king]

http://www.lateral-g.net/forums/showthread.php4?t=45073
Aaron

I started a build thread finally.
Mike

[65_LS1_T56]

So, it's been awhile..like four months since the last post. Time for a few updates on the Vette project.

I had to re-read the thread to see what we talked about, but I did mention we ordered a new frame in November. Well, 19 weeks (!) later, we got it. Other than the extended delivery (quoted 6-8), it turned out pretty good. We ordered a stock replacement 66 frame with one exception, full welded seams.

Here is a pic when I picked it up:
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/IMG_20140320_155037_128_zpsn5iywae7.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/IMG_20140320_155037_128_zpsn5iywae7.jpg.html)

We decided on powdercoat as a finish and went with something other than black. It's a metallic silver. Looks great with some black contrasting parts bolted on. Not many on yet but we're getting there.
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/IMG_20140601_122507_958_zpssosjjg2u.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/IMG_20140601_122507_958_zpssosjjg2u.jpg.html)

We really wanted to do a full bolt-on suspension upgrade. Had a few discussions with the guys at Ridetech about there new setup, but we decided to refurbish the stock front control arms & spindles for now. We want to experience the car before and after the upgrades. We will be running upgraded trailing arms and shocks though.

Cleaning, dis-assembling, and rebuilding the front control arms, rear wheel spindles and half shafts has been nothing short of a huge project. Jill has been making friends with the sandblaster at my shop. She was so happy when I replaced the media that had turned to talc powder.
I was able to machine a test spindle for preloading the bearings to set free play and grind in the spacers to the low end of the tolerance. Here is an exploded view:
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/IMG_20140612_132249_819_zpsegdloflv.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/IMG_20140612_132249_819_zpsegdloflv.jpg.html)
All new u-joints for the half shafts (non-greasable type) Still have to complete the prop shaft.
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/IMG_20140611_132414_577_zpssojiydfl.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/IMG_20140611_132414_577_zpssojiydfl.jpg.html)

Got the uppers and lowers all blasted up and new poly bushings installed. New balljoints also installed after this picture:
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/IMG_20140613_155439_150_zpsyptzfudo.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/IMG_20140613_155439_150_zpsyptzfudo.jpg.html)

We've been ordering all sorts of clips, brackets, and fasteners for fuel lines, brake lines and linkages. This stuff takes forever:headspin:

The motor is all cleaned up and painted and pretty much ready to go back in. We went with a new Holley HP carb, that things looks awesome. I havent' had a carb on a car in over 20 years I think, lol. Haven't done anything with the transmission, but are considering going thru it just to be safe.

The rear differential was dropped off at a rear-end only shop for re-assembly. We provided all the new replacement parts including a clutch kit for the posi. The shop called and said there was bad news as someone neglected to put the spherical seat behind one of the spider gears and it had cut into the carrier casting. We called a few places and a few friends without luck. So $$$ later, we have a new Auburn LSD unit on the way.

One other thing we did score was a Wilwood brake setup, 6/4 piston. Also a master and prop valve combo. We have a little brake line work to change to get from the stock lines to the prop valve.

We hope the next update won't be so long from now, we are really trying to get this thing back together :G-Dub:

[tommycomfort]

Great update Aaron!

[fleetus macmullitz]

Just read thru this Aaron....wow, what a cool project. :thumbsup:

http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/IMG_2206_zpsc6267224.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/IMG_2206_zpsc6267224.jpg.html)

[65_LS1_T56]

Great update Aaron!
Doesn't seem like much to look at, but there's been a lot of time invested (as you are oh so familiar with).

Just read thru this Aaron....wow, what a cool project. :thumbsup:

http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/IMG_2206_zpsc6267224.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/IMG_2206_zpsc6267224.jpg.html)

Thanks Skip:thumbsup: pretty sure it's gonna get some looks :D

[1coolC2]

Aaron,

This is the first look at this bad boy for me.....looks great!! The vintage style is on the comeback like corduroy's and fro's LOL The C2's are such a great platform and are arguably the most awesome body style ever turned out by GM.....just my opinion :) Keep the pics and info coming, I can't wait to get back working on my 65 coupe.......errr, after I finish the Nova :underchair:

P.S, I know where you get get some nice updated headlight motors and a wiper kit :-) I know, it's shameless!!!

R/
Jeff

[sokoloka]

I'm a little partial to C3's but a flared vette is a flared vette!
Absolutely LOVE it!

[65_LS1_T56]

Aaron,

This is the first look at this bad boy for me.....looks great!! The vintage style is on the comeback like corduroy's and fro's LOL The C2's are such a great platform and are arguably the most awesome body style ever turned out by GM.....just my opinion :) Keep the pics and info coming, I can't wait to get back working on my 65 coupe.......errr, after I finish the Nova :underchair:

P.S, I know where you get get some nice updated headlight motors and a wiper kit :-) I know, it's shameless!!!

R/
Jeff

Thanks Jeff. It's pretty crazy its been exactly the same way since '76. And I agree, best design from GM for sure. So what would you know about headlights and wipers...

I'm a little partial to C3's but a flared vette is a flared vette!
Absolutely LOVE it!

Thanks Eric. It's flared for sure. With a side of flair :lmao:

[65_LS1_T56]

We've been hard at it last couple of weeks. Making progress, but not without challenges along the way. Ok, every step of the way :headscratch:

Few pics:
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/IMG_20140614_155427_208_zpsd72c12a3.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/IMG_20140614_155427_208_zpsd72c12a3.jpg.html)
new jute:
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/IMG_20140628_202207_485_zps4jvb7fsa.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/IMG_20140628_202207_485_zps4jvb7fsa.jpg.html)
carpet:
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/IMG_20140630_222658_512_zps51c4984f.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/IMG_20140630_222658_512_zps51c4984f.jpg.html)
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/IMG_20140630_222730_419_zps4290be6f.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/IMG_20140630_222730_419_zps4290be6f.jpg.html)
Engine
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/60957330-c92e-4dac-a04a-e88e21e33706_zps5a475b29.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/60957330-c92e-4dac-a04a-e88e21e33706_zps5a475b29.jpg.html)
Engine and trans back home:
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/IMG_20140706_122822_249_zpsfb30fa8a.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/IMG_20140706_122822_249_zpsfb30fa8a.jpg.html)
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/IMG_20140706_122938_330_zps1ca457b7.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/IMG_20140706_122938_330_zps1ca457b7.jpg.html)

[Zoomin]

What a perfect base for a project like this!

Where did you (eventually) get the chassis?

Your valve covers and intake look really nice - how did you refinish those?

[65_LS1_T56]

What a perfect base for a project like this!

Where did you (eventually) get the chassis?

Your valve covers and intake look really nice - how did you refinish those?

The chassis came from Vette Products, Lake Orion, MI. Made with the original GM tooling and welding fixtures supposedly.
The intake, covers and bell housing were media blasted and painted with Eastwood Alumiblast. That paint looks killer and sprays very good.

[SSLance]

The black parts on the silver chassis looks pretty slick. I'm loving the whole theme of this car. Please keep on posting pics of the progress!!! Get some of Jill bolting the new parts on HER car...

[65_LS1_T56]

The black parts on the silver chassis looks pretty slick. I'm loving the whole theme of this car. Please keep on posting pics of the progress!!! Get some of Jill bolting the new parts on HER car...

Thanks Lance! we like the contrast too.

I keep taking pics of her working on it, but she won't let me post them. :EmoteClueless:

This is about all she'll let me post :lmao:
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/IMG_20140701_155222_914_zps125bd4ca.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/IMG_20140701_155222_914_zps125bd4ca.jpg.html)

[71RS/SS396]

This is about all she'll let me post :lmao:

Coward! You afraid to take a little beating?

[65_LS1_T56]

Coward! You afraid to take a little beating?

A little? I can't take any more.

Me>:smiley_smack: <Her

[71RS/SS396]

A little? I can't take any more.

Me>:smiley_smack: <Her

If you still feel the pain you haven't taken near enough beatings yet! I don't even feel it anymore :bitchslap:

[65_LS1_T56]

If you still feel the pain you haven't taken near enough beatings yet! I don't even feel it anymore :bitchslap:

Deb doesn't seem to be the beating kind! lol

[SSLance]

I keep taking pics of her working on it, but she won't let me post them. :EmoteClueless:



That sounds familiar actually... :rules:

The funny thing is though, pictures of ME end up posted on my Wife's facebook page quite frequently...
:popcorn2:

[fleetus macmullitz]

My wife and I had a good laugh over this one yesterday.

It seems apropos for this moment in time...lol

[71RS/SS396]

Deb doesn't seem to be the beating kind! lol

She's sneaky about it! The bruises are where you can't see them :hitaxeonthehead:

[GregWeld]

Never hand them a tool larger than you're willing to be hit with....

[57hemicuda]

You have to break them in right, they'll get used to it after a while. Dawn is so tired of all the shenanigans, for so many years, she just shakes her head, and I always just say "WHAT?"

[71RS/SS396]

You have to break them in right, they'll get used to it after a while. Dawn is so tired of all the shenanigans, for so many years, she just shakes her head, and I always just say "WHAT?"

That's what I say too Ron! Then I get "really! you know what"

[WSSix]

Glad the car is coming along nicely. I think the silver powder coat was a good idea, too. Good luck!

[65_LS1_T56]

That sounds familiar actually... :rules:

The funny thing is though, pictures of ME end up posted on my Wife's facebook page quite frequently...
:popcorn2:

I see a pattern developing here :confused59:

My wife and I had a good laugh over this one yesterday.

It seems apropos for this moment in time...lol

That's a good one!

Never hand them a tool larger than you're willing to be hit with....

Very wise words GW:lol:

You have to break them in right, they'll get used to it after a while. Dawn is so tired of all the shenanigans, for so many years, she just shakes her head, and I always just say "WHAT?"
That's what I say too Ron! Then I get "really! you know what"
:lmao:

Glad the car is coming along nicely. I think the silver powder coat was a good idea, too. Good luck!

Thanks Trey.

[65_LS1_T56]

Little more progress :)
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20140709_203402_zpsw7bwnylz.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20140709_203402_zpsw7bwnylz.jpg.html)
Geez, I know, I need to clean my shop up :shakehead:
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20140709_222220_zpsurfjhjcb.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20140709_222220_zpsurfjhjcb.jpg.html)
Getting close to putting the body on the chassis, maybe next week. Fingers crossed.
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/83f1d3df-c2a6-44f2-8613-dc2a07827d58_zps7fb5ec83.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/83f1d3df-c2a6-44f2-8613-dc2a07827d58_zps7fb5ec83.jpg.html)

[57hemicuda]

Man, I soooo need a midyear!!

The little cogs in my brain spin really fast when i see these pics.

[65_LS1_T56]

Man, I soooo need a midyear!!

The little cogs in my brain spin really fast when i see these pics.

I can post more if it helps :animated_bye_bye_em

[andreb]

I know these are motivating me!! Thanks!! :idea:

[fxdlryan]

That's pure sexiness right there Aaron...

[65_LS1_T56]

That's pure sexiness right there Aaron...

Thanks Ryan.
You been driving yours yet? OMCC coming soon :hairpullout:

[fxdlryan]

Thanks Ryan.
You been driving yours yet? OMCC coming soon :hairpullout:
Aaron - Starting my own business has sucked a lot of time. We've also had a lot of family activities and so forth. My paint and body guy has fallen behind getting me back in for some punch list items and Lizard Skin. The guy I had lined up for my custom console and interior stuff has now decided to move to Florida, so if I'm in OMCC, it will be with clapped out interior and using it to shake down the car.

[65_LS1_T56]

Aaron - Starting my own business has sucked a lot of time. We've also had a lot of family activities and so forth. My paint and body guy has fallen behind getting me back in for some punch list items and Lizard Skin. The guy I had lined up for my custom console and interior stuff has now decided to move to Florida, so if I'm in OMCC, it will be with clapped out interior and using it to shake down the car.

As a business owner myself, I hear you. Especially during startup times.

Don't be ashmed of a partially finished car, nobody will judge you. We might if you don't come though :mock: Haha, mine has rust on it, and I'm OK with that.

[65_LS1_T56]

Body back on the frame tomorrow!

http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20140715_210534_zpszz7jq9oe.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20140715_210534_zpszz7jq9oe.jpg.html)

[bdahlg68]

Body back on the frame tomorrow!


Motorstate?

[65_LS1_T56]

Motorstate?

Yeah, probably not. Long list of lots of little things to do still. :drowninga:

[65_LS1_T56]

We have touchdown!
Thanks to Bill and Billy at B&B Classics for the assist, and the hoist :thumbsup:
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20140716_182916_zpsfdi5d3r2.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20140716_182916_zpsfdi5d3r2.jpg.html)
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20140716_183011_zpsxfyoiigl.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20140716_183011_zpsxfyoiigl.jpg.html)
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20140716_192020_zpskibqevgq.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20140716_192020_zpskibqevgq.jpg.html)
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20140716_222358_zpscznlpkvx.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20140716_222358_zpscznlpkvx.jpg.html)
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20140716_223054_zpsmtvriuox.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20140716_223054_zpsmtvriuox.jpg.html)

[bdahlg68]

As I've heard in just about every vehicle assembly plant tour, "this is what we like to call the "marriage"!"

[Paraman1]

As sick as your Chevelle is this 66 is going to be one of those cars everyone wants a ride along in . 70's styling with an updated drivetrain ? I can't wait to see some videos of this thing on a road course , its gonna be awesome !!

[SSLance]

I've seen a few Corvette bodies put on frames over the years, but NONE of those frames looked anywhere near as cool and menacing as that one did!!

Great job. She's gonna love the attention that car gets everywhere it goes.

[Flash68]

http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20140716_223054_zpsmtvriuox.jpg[/URL]

That is just rad, dude.

[65_LS1_T56]

As I've heard in just about every vehicle assembly plant tour, "this is what we like to call the "marriage"!"
Well, the marriage didn't go without a few problems, but with some more counseling, I'm sure we can work thru the issues :catfight:
As sick as your Chevelle is this 66 is going to be one of those cars everyone wants a ride along in . 70's styling with an updated drivetrain ? I can't wait to see some videos of this thing on a road course , its gonna be awesome !!
Thanks. Oh my Chevelle is still cooler. That's what I keep telling her anyway so maybe she'll want to switch vehicles :lol:

I've seen a few Corvette bodies put on frames over the years, but NONE of those frames looked anywhere near as cool and menacing as that one did!!

Great job. She's gonna love the attention that car gets everywhere it goes.
Thanks Lance, it's weird because it is 99% stock other than the silver color and the VanSteel trailing arms and mono spring. It definitely look different and I'm sure some hardcore Vette guys would not approve :mock:

That is just rad, dude.
Far out, isn't it? :lol:
Thanks Dave

[Payton King]

I just love this car!

[Jay Hilliard]

Looks great. Glad to see it back together again. Very cool car and build, especially with the history. Awesome job!

[65_LS1_T56]

http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20140806_184827_zps8p4z9x9n.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20140806_184827_zps8p4z9x9n.jpg.html)

[71RS/SS396]

http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20140806_184827_zps8p4z9x9n.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20140806_184827_zps8p4z9x9n.jpg.html)

Bling! Bling! :ups:

[65_LS1_T56]

Bling! Bling! :ups:

Yep!

Hehe...http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20140806_191054_zpsemreruoc.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20140806_191054_zpsemreruoc.jpg.html)

[65_LS1_T56]

Should be covered for the next few holidays and special events :lol:

So I probably should show what's in the box. Well, after much deliberation she decided on Forgeline GZ3's, gloss gunmetal centers and polished step-lip hoops. Ended up with 18x9.5's and 18x11's. Currently a 265/315 combo, but it sure looks like a 275 will go up front no sweat.

We couldn't be happier with how they transformed the car. The finish goes so good with the paint color(s).

There has been lots of other updates that haven't been posted yet, more about those after some pics of the wheels. Had to roll it outside in the daylight. Note: ride height is close, but not set and no alignment yet. The rear has like 2" of toe and 3+ degrees of negative camber...
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20140806_193026_zpshtlltkl6.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20140806_193026_zpshtlltkl6.jpg.html)
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20140806_193009_zpswgub8ivy.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20140806_193009_zpswgub8ivy.jpg.html)
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20140806_193044_zpse4zsyuxp.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20140806_193044_zpse4zsyuxp.jpg.html)
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20140806_193110_zpsehiyggrt.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20140806_193110_zpsehiyggrt.jpg.html)
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20140806_193852_zpsauhzlqka.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20140806_193852_zpsauhzlqka.jpg.html)

Oh, and the mating plate from my ride, G-Velle...:D
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20140806_192841_zps4dny0uiw.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20140806_192841_zps4dny0uiw.jpg.html)
Thanks again to Billy at B&B Classics for working out the sizing on the wheels and the order. Guys, give him a call if you are buying!

As far as other updates, not nearly as exciting as new rollers!, we did get the motor started about two weeks ago. Fired right up, ran pretty good right out of the gate without setting timing or messing with the Holley Ultra HP at all. Sounds pretty good too. We still have several issues to work thru on the front accessories, get the radiator in, wire the electric fans, finish the brake system, install the column and seats. Few loose ends underneath too.
Got a set of Ridetech HQ single adjustable front coilovers and smooth bodies for the rear. Need to mod the front lower control arms to drop the lower mount. Due to limited clearance through the frames, the upper stud mount needs to be extended to push the coilover down, therefore the lower mount needs to be moved down as well. Aftermarket arms are in our future, but for now we'll leave the stock (modified) stuff in there.

Can't wait to go for a cruise in it.

[k7king]

Looking good Aaron

[SSLance]

http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20140806_191054_zpsemreruoc.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20140806_191054_zpsemreruoc.jpg.html)[/QUOTE]



:lol: :king:

[fleetus macmullitz]

That's unfair Aaron.

:waveflag:


lol

[57hemicuda]

Daaamnn sucka, they are sweet. Is that thing ready for Pittsburg, cause I am so there.

[65_LS1_T56]

Daaamnn sucka, they are sweet. Is that thing ready for Pittsburg, cause I am so there.

If I didn't have a 7am to 6pm job, it might be...laundry list of things left still.

You get the Muttstang figured out? Hope so.

[65_LS1_T56]

I just love this car!
Thanks Payton! Going to Pittsburgh next weekend?

Looks great. Glad to see it back together again. Very cool car and build, especially with the history. Awesome job!
Me too! Still lots to do, but gaining on it. And thank you.

Looking good Aaron
Thanks Mike. Maybe we'll meet at an event someday! We need more go fast part first though...we'd be out gunned.


:lol: :king:

I thought it was funny :D

That's unfair Aaron.

:waveflag:


lol
I'm guessing you like it too? Haha, thanks.

[Flash68]

So frickin cool.

[HEEP]

Aaron, Just finished catching up on about four pages of updates. Wow, how did I miss those. Vettes, man I love them. My wife does too. It's her dream car. One day, I'll hope to find her one.

The wheels made the ride. Brought a whole new attitude to it. Keep at it.
:king:

[WSSix]

Love the wheel selection!

[65_LS1_T56]

So frickin cool.

Aaron, Just finished catching up on about four pages of updates. Wow, how did I miss those. Vettes, man I love them. My wife does too. It's her dream car. One day, I'll hope to find her one.

The wheels made the ride. Brought a whole new attitude to it. Keep at it.
:king:

Love the wheel selection!

Thanks a lot guys

[SSLance]

Aaron, I run 275 Falkens on my 17 x 9.5s and they fit great. Shouldn't be a problem for you the next time you need front tires either. I agree that the wheels really fit and look great on the car. Billy did a great job sizing them for you.

[andreb]

Those wheels look awesome! Great choice. You are making great progress.

[GregWeld]

I've been a little too busy with moving my shed and then running to Sonoma to cruise many threads and missed the latest updates here! That turned out just better than great. The pic with the "Happy....." on the wheel boxes busted me up and I need to remember it! <and steal the idea>

Nicely done Aaron!

[Evan Iroc-Z]

So much awesomeness in this thread!!!

[Payton King]

Those wheels could not be any more perfect!

Will not make it to Pitt, my 12 yr old has a soccer tourney that weekend.

[Yelcamino]

Looks great Aaron!

[65_LS1_T56]

Aaron, I run 275 Falkens on my 17 x 9.5s and they fit great. Shouldn't be a problem for you the next time you need front tires either. I agree that the wheels really fit and look great on the car. Billy did a great job sizing them for you.
that's what we'll do next set Lance. I need to confirm its all good after a proper alignment, it's out to lunch right now :lol:

Those wheels look awesome! Great choice. You are making great progress.
:thankyou:

I've been a little too busy with moving my shed and then running to Sonoma to cruise many threads and missed the latest updates here! That turned out just better than great. The pic with the "Happy....." on the wheel boxes busted me up and I need to remember it! <and steal the idea>

Nicely done Aaron!
Thanks Greg. Permission granted to steal away, lol. Jill got a chuckle out of it too, until I said I wasn't joking:underchair:
It is truly amazing the difference the wheels made. Literally the wheels and polished side exhaust is the only difference from when we bought the car (exterior wise that is...).

So much awesomeness in this thread!!!
Hehe, :thankyou:

Those wheels could not be any more perfect!

Will not make it to Pitt, my 12 yr old has a soccer tourney that weekend.
Man Payton, you having event withdrawls yet? Good luck at the tourney and thanks!


Looks great Aaron!
Thanks Herb! Looking forward to getting the HQ's on and dialed in :)

[1coolC2]

Aaron,

Those wheels look like crap!!! Put them back in the box and send them to me, I'll pay the shipping to help ya out....because I like you :lol: Seriously, they look awesome and strike the right blend of modern with that vintage paint and body mods. I cant wait to see this car out and running the track...WAY COOL!!

UUUGH, I need to get going on my 65 coupe, I'm having mid year withdrawals!! Here is a little teaser shot of it.....

R/
Jeff


http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c261/1coolc2/65Coupeinitialbodymounting026.jpg (http://s29.photobucket.com/user/1coolc2/media/65Coupeinitialbodymounting026.jpg.html)
http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c261/1coolc2/65Coupeinitialbodymounting023.jpg (http://s29.photobucket.com/user/1coolc2/media/65Coupeinitialbodymounting023.jpg.html)

[65_LS1_T56]

Aaron,

Those wheels look like crap!!! Put them back in the box and send them to me, I'll pay the shipping to help ya out....because I like you :lol: Seriously, they look awesome and strike the right blend of modern with that vintage paint and body mods. I cant wait to see this car out and running the track...WAY COOL!!

UUUGH, I need to get going on my 65 coupe, I'm having mid year withdrawals!! Here is a little teaser shot of it.....

R/
Jeff


http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c261/1coolc2/65Coupeinitialbodymounting026.jpg (http://s29.photobucket.com/user/1coolc2/media/65Coupeinitialbodymounting026.jpg.html)
http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c261/1coolc2/65Coupeinitialbodymounting023.jpg (http://s29.photobucket.com/user/1coolc2/media/65Coupeinitialbodymounting023.jpg.html)

Lol, you're in luck, I saved the boxes. I'll get them sent out Monday Jeff... Not. :warning:

Wow! I see you're going all out again with the 65..SRIII, 9 in. too. Hope RonS doesn't see it.

[Rick D]

Aaron, the wheels changed the car completely!! It's soooo different from the smaller AR. Love it!!

[1coolC2]

Wow! I see you're going all out again with the 65..SRIII, 9 in. too. Hope RonS doesn't see it.


I know, that's why the location of the car is Top Secret...that crazy dude would slip in during the cloak of darkness and make off with it and glue his new AMX fiberglass nose on it!! :stirthepot: No doubt Ron would build a killer C2 if he could find one, good project mid years are getting to be like hens teeth and then just cost too much.

R/
Jeff

[andreb]

Anything new going on? :popcorn2:

[65_LS1_T56]

lol, yeah life :headspin:
Ben getting a few things done, but mostly trying to keep the Chevelle going and doing events.

Got some cool press on Forgeline's site (http://www.forgeline.com/customer_gallery_view.php?cvk=1176&fb_action_ids=547595732036241&fb_action_types=og.likes&fb_ref=.VBCnYgFD37c.like). That's pretty cool.

Got the front control arms off to modify for Ridetech coilovers. Need to wrap up the brake lines, think I have everything for those now. A little wiring (electric fan and new alternator) left to do. A punch list of small things that add up to a lot of time still to do.

I'm off the event schedule for 3 weeks, so I hope to get it on the road soon. Winter's almost here, geesh...

[analyte]

Aaron, I just read through all 16 pages. I know you told me the story, but it was cool to see all the extra pics.

Very nice ride!!


Kerry

[andreb]

I understand that! I have had to switch from working on my Vette to getting repairs done to my snowplow. I hope this winter isn't as bad as last.

Great exposure on the Forgeline site. Those wheels look fantastic.

[65_LS1_T56]

Aaron, I just read through all 16 pages. I know you told me the story, but it was cool to see all the extra pics.

Very nice ride!!


Kerry
Thanks Kerry!

I understand that! I have had to switch from working on my Vette to getting repairs done to my snowplow. I hope this winter isn't as bad as last.

Great exposure on the Forgeline site. Those wheels look fantastic.

Yeah, it's getting real cold here already:shakehead: Need to start thinking about some fall/winter prep stuff too.

The Forgeline guys are great, they actually came to me for the story on the car which I thought was pretty cool. We are very happy with the look.

Hopefully I'll have some good progress to show in the next couple of days...:headspin:

[65_LS1_T56]

:woot: it moves under its own power! First test drive tonight at 10:30pm. Nothing like side pipes to wake up the neighbors:action-smiley-027:

Video proof as soon as photobucket posts that it is available.
Still lots to do, needs carb tuning for sure, bleed the brakes again, put the hood on...

Edit: the "burnout" video...a few donuts in the (wet) grass :)
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/Videos/Vette%20first%20drive_zpsmammz6b8.mp4 (http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/Videos/Vette%20first%20drive_zpsmammz6b8.mp4)

[Rick D]

I do not see anything so it didn't happen?? :bitchslap: :mock:

[65_LS1_T56]

I do not see anything so it didn't happen?? :bitchslap: :mock:

Photobuckets is being difficult again...if you click on that little icon it should play.
Or try this:
http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/Videos/Vette%20first%20drive_zpsmammz6b8.mp4.html

[tom091074]

I seen your 65 at LS fest I can't believe you guys throw those big cars around like that very impressive. Nice forgeline press too by the way.

[65_LS1_T56]

I seen your 65 at LS fest I can't believe you guys throw those big cars around like that very impressive. Nice forgeline press too by the way.

Why thanks Tom! LS Fest was pretty fun. Big cars, yes, but compared to cars of today...not so big. My Chevelle weighs 3320.

[Rick D]

Ok that's better, very cool. Man this car is soooooo cool Aaron!!

[andreb]

That sounded awesome! Loved the 360 too!!

[65_LS1_T56]

Ok that's better, very cool. Man this car is soooooo cool Aaron!!
Thanks Rick
That sounded awesome! Loved the 360 too!!
the spiral baffles do sound pretty good. not loud at all, may have to open the thru hole a bit :bigun2:

[fxdlryan]

That's got to be a good feeling having it under it's own power again. Good thing Jill was laughing while you were spinning donuts in the grass. Did she pimp smack :smiley_smack: you back under the car to clean the grass and mud off of her beautiful new frame?

[65_LS1_T56]

That's got to be a good feeling having it under it's own power again. Good thing Jill was laughing while you were spinning donuts in the grass. Did she pimp smack :smiley_smack: you back under the car to clean the grass and mud off of her beautiful new frame?

It's a great feeling Ryan! I did clean the grass off before I got :smiley_smack:

We're not car show people, but Paragon Corvette asked us to bring it to their fall show today, so we're headed there later today with it. We'll see how the "numbers matching" guys like it :mock:

[65_LS1_T56]

Made it out with the SO66 today. Had fun watching people walk up to it and see there facial expressions, like what the...


Met with Dave, in orange shirt, the guy that built it in 75/76. It was fun talking with him about the car. He didn't know we were coming and said how happy he was seeing it again. Brought back lots of memories for him.
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/20140920_112924_zpscc4eamhs.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/20140920_112924_zpscc4eamhs.jpg.html)http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/20140920_105235_zpsvkmj6j4f.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/20140920_105235_zpsvkmj6j4f.jpg.html)

[tom091074]

Why thanks Tom! LS Fest was pretty fun. Big cars, yes, but compared to cars of today...not so big. My Chevelle weighs 3320.

It's way lighter than it looks but you and Tom were doing an fine job on the track there. It was my first event and attempt at autox so I got some practice to do to catch up with you guys. I got to ride in Billy's nova, loved it!

[dug]

Awesome car! I love it. What did you have to do to the control arms to fit the ride tech coil overs? Do you have any pictures?

[65_LS1_T56]

Awesome car! I love it. What did you have to do to the control arms to fit the ride tech coil overs? Do you have any pictures?
Well, it wasn't simple, but what I ended up doing was getting a couple of pieces of 5" diameter, 1/8" wall dom and putting a new lower mount in. To get the ride height and due to adding extended upper stud mounts, the pocket was pushed down 2.75". Here are the only pics I took.
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/Front%20Suspension/20140916_185905_zpsmymyzqmz.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/Front%20Suspension/20140916_185905_zpsmymyzqmz.jpg.html)

http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/Front%20Suspension/20140916_141457_zpshe1ntseu.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/Front%20Suspension/20140916_141457_zpshe1ntseu.jpg.html)

[SSLance]

Hmmm....Love the sticker on those shocks!!!

and the ingenuity to get them to work on the car rocks too.

[65_LS1_T56]

Hmmm....Love the sticker on those shocks!!!

and the ingenuity to get them to work on the car rocks too.

They may be filled with secret sauce...:D

Hehe, that was backyard in-jun-earing right there. Hard to believe, but there were no CAD files generated for this modification...lol

Thanks Lance!

[Rick D]

Aaron anyone giving you sh!t about the car? I just love when the numbers guys can't undestand why we do what we do. :thumbsup:

Oh and if you don't remember I LOVE THIS CAR!!!!

[65_LS1_T56]

Aaron anyone giving you sh!t about the car? I just love when the numbers guys can't undestand why we do what we do. :thumbsup:

Oh and if you don't remember I LOVE THIS CAR!!!!

No, nothing like that. But you could see them keep it to themselves a bit :D
I think the fact that Dave, the builder, was there and is very respected now as a number's matching restorer. Everyone there seemed to know him. He told me he's restored 20 some cars now. The copper colored C1 and the Atomic orange C6 are his as well. The C1 has been apart for 40 years according to his wife.

Thanks Rick, we kinda love it too :thumbsup:

[dug]

Thank you so much for the reply and pictures!

[andreb]

You made it to Corvette Blogger's Mid Year Monday!

http://www.corvetteblogger.com/2014/09/29/gallery-midyear-monday-25-corvette-photos-5/

[65_LS1_T56]

You made it to Corvette Blogger's Mid Year Monday!

http://www.corvetteblogger.com/2014/09/29/gallery-midyear-monday-25-corvette-photos-5/

That's pretty cool! Thanks

[65_LS1_T56]

Well, that didn't last long...it's coming out:G-Dub:

http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/20141214_184822_zpsqinu1quv.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/20141214_184822_zpsqinu1quv.jpg.html)

[tommycomfort]

Hang on Aaron! :RunninDog:

[65_LS1_T56]

Hang on Aaron! :RunninDog:

Awesome, you on your way? :thumbsup:

[tommycomfort]

Awesome, you on your way? :thumbsup:

I wish!

[Rick D]

So I take it the Chevelle LS is going in?? :relax:

[65_LS1_T56]

So I take it the Chevelle LS is going in?? :relax:

Welllll, that was the original plan. Now, I have a line on something with a little more steam.

[Rick D]

Welllll, that was the original plan. Now, I have a line on something with a little more steam.

Ok let's hear it :poke: :warning: oh and what are you doing with the Chevelle engine? :y0!: :y0!:

[65_LS1_T56]

Can't tell the details just yet Rick as its not a done deal.

I'll hold on to the LS1 from the Chevelle for now as its treated me very well so far. My oldest may need an engine for his 70 Elky someday :rolleyes:

[65_LS1_T56]

Geez, I forgot where I left off, so I went thru to whole thread...had some good laughs along the way for sure!

Ok, so we did end up putting the LS1 out of the Chevelle (http://www.lateral-g.net/forums/showthread.php4?t=41839) into the Vette. It's getting real close to lighting the fire, but I have a few things to finish up first. I'll try to get this thread up to speed where we are today...

So, as most know or heard (the episode was on MAV TV again tonight actually!), my wife bought a Mast 416 for me for my birthday and delivered it at Michigan International Speedway USCA event. So, having the perfectly good LS1 with no where to go now, we decided to put it in the SO66. The T56 was not going to fit without a major tunnelectomy, so we contacted Mr. Mark Bowler at Bowler Performance Transmissions...one of his reworked TKO600's was ordered with all the good upgrades. Since the Mast motor in the Chevelle is DBW, I removed the Holley HP ECU and harness from it and used it all in the Vette. The Chevelle will be upgraded with the Holley Dominator system. Also, I was able to use the radiator from the Chevelle with some minor mods to adapt to the Vette core support. Of course, a new billet top mount was in order.

So having a FI motor required a change of fuel system..we opted to update the stock tank with an Aeromotive Phantom system. Very nice kit and should work great for our use. The fuel lines were new stainless lines when we put the car back together, so those will serve just fine. Billy fabbed up a compact little vent tank that is mounted above the fuel tank to let it breathe a little.

The motor and all the accessories actually dropped right in without modifications. I did end up machining new motor adapter plates to put the motor right where I wanted it. It is positioned as a "0" setback, so the back of the enging is in the factory SBC location. As suspected, the TKO mount wasn't even close, so a one-off billet one was machined. As anyone that's done an LS sway in a C2/C3, you know the waterpump heater hose nipples interfere with the upper control arms. I removed the factory nipples and tapped the ports for NPT plugs and machined weld-in nipples and holes on the top side of the inlet leg of the casting. Took care of that.

One of the other challenges of the swap has been the exhaust. Jill really wants the side pipes. So what the current plan is, is to use modified LS7 manifolds (remove the oval flange) and connect them to the OBX side pipes with 4" tube. At the manifold, a fabricated oval to round transition will be required.

On the inside, we opted for a Dakota Digital dash, and soon, a matching clock in the center. For seats, Recaro Expert S, the same as in the Chevelle but in black cloth. Still have to make seat mounts for those, as well as a harness bar. To finish it off, a Bowler 6" shifter and matching black ball. Thanks Mark!

Gosh, there's been so many things that I've made, or had to remake (!)...but it is coming together. Still have to find a small power steering reservoir that we can mount on the driver's side inner fender backside. I may just have to cut down a standard one to get the return above the power steering pump. Waiting on the Dynotech driveshaft to get in also, should be soon.

Oh, one serious piece of billet awesomeness that has to be machined yet...

Finger's crossed in the next week or so, we should be able to pull the trigger and fire it!
Here's a few pics, still uploading a few, so I may add more later.
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/11138520_656628954466251_7416210706971057996_n_zps 0jq9tcba.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/11138520_656628954466251_7416210706971057996_n_zps 0jq9tcba.jpg.html)

Transmission mount:
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/11021085_633038613491952_4276520765765591997_n_zps gooy3afq.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/11021085_633038613491952_4276520765765591997_n_zps gooy3afq.jpg.html)

Fabbed radiator hoses:
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20150424_205247_zpseuvysji7.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20150424_205247_zpseuvysji7.jpg.html)

Close up of the upper radiator bracket:
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/11043198_634044893391324_2318603783563759966_n_zps htftdwi3.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/11043198_634044893391324_2318603783563759966_n_zps htftdwi3.jpg.html)

Overall motor shot with coil mounts on top:
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20150424_205115_zpsmb5feni9.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20150424_205115_zpsmb5feni9.jpg.html)

Here's the buildup of the coil brackets:
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20150424_190746_zpsglrfxy5i.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20150424_190746_zpsglrfxy5i.jpg.html)
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20150424_191529_zpswayh7f05.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20150424_191529_zpswayh7f05.jpg.html)
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20150424_195644_zpsrg1rvwgd.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20150424_195644_zpsrg1rvwgd.jpg.html)

Bowler stick and shift ball:
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20150421_211739_zpsjdssrh9j.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20150421_211739_zpsjdssrh9j.jpg.html)

Dakota Digital:
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20150421_211626_zps57j6ebzw.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20150421_211626_zps57j6ebzw.jpg.html)

Thanks for everyone's patience and following along, its getting closer now, so I hope to have some more updates soon.

[tommycomfort]

Woohoo! I knew there was progress happening, but it is good to see it in the build thread!

[SSLance]

So many changes for the better, Jill is gonna LOVE driving that car when you get it ready!! Thanks for the update.

All of the custom billet awesomeness is fantastic looking!!

[57hemicuda]

All of those cool billet pieces that you can make yourself. I'm not jealous, but YOU SUCK!!

Unless your making them for me, then YOUR AWESOME!!

[Sieg]

All of those cool billet pieces that you can make yourself. I'm not jealous, but YOU SUCK!!

Unless your making them for me, then YOUR AWESOME!!
Aaron and his CNC are like a kid with his first BB gun.......everything in sightis a potential target. :D

[GregWeld]

All of those cool billet pieces that you can make yourself. I'm not jealous, but YOU SUCK!!

Unless your making them for me, then YOUR AWESOME!!



What he said....



It's turning out great Aaron.

[65_LS1_T56]

Woohoo! I knew there was progress happening, but it is good to see it in the build thread!
Yes, with some big thanks to you mister!

So many changes for the better, Jill is gonna LOVE driving that car when you get it ready!! Thanks for the update.

All of the custom billet awesomeness is fantastic looking!!
Thanks Lance, its getting there..you'd think a "simple" engine and trans swap would be easier :headscratch:

All of those cool billet pieces that you can make yourself. I'm not jealous, but YOU SUCK!!

Unless your making them for me, then YOUR AWESOME!!
Haha! I suppose you need something for that new tank you bought...maybe a billet plow mount?

Aaron and his CNC are like a kid with his first BB gun.......everything in sightis a potential target. :D
You'll have to wait...I have one fairly large piece to machine yet. Cad model is done, got to get it programmed and machined.

What he said....



It's turning out great Aaron.
Thank you sir!

[65_LS1_T56]

A few more pics that finally uploaded..

Fuel tank mods with Aeromotive Phantom pump:
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20150417_200647_zps33eclbfc.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20150417_200647_zps33eclbfc.jpg.html)

pic thru to filler neck hole, got kinda tight in there. Of course, you have to tighten a few fittings thru this hole :hairpullout:
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20150417_204703_zpsgbuym11h.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20150417_204703_zpsgbuym11h.jpg.html)

Overflow tank:
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20150421_211207_zpsf4ejkigj.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20150421_211207_zpsf4ejkigj.jpg.html)

This will be command central. Running a Braile 21# battery that sits where the stock battery did. Also, this is where the Holley HP ECU is located on the back side of the inner fenderwell.
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20150421_211320_zpsialivvpc.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/Construction%20pics/20150421_211320_zpsialivvpc.jpg.html)

[SSLance]

got kinda tight in there

Doesn't that option come fairly standard with just about every part on them plastic cars? :D

Never forget having to pull an upper front control arm just to replace a radiator in a big block 69 Vette...

[65_LS1_T56]

Doesn't that option come fairly standard with just about every part on them plastic cars? :D

Never forget having to pull an upper front control arm just to replace a radiator in a big block 69 Vette...

Yes, there is not much room anywhere!

[65_LS1_T56]

It runs!

:cool:

CJpE3ew7XYs

[Paraman1]

Sounds great !

[waynieZ]

Man that's got to feel good! Congratulation's

[57hemicuda]

Ipod era power in a 8 track era car, awesome! I love that thing Aaron, and would still buy it if the wife would give it up.

[Rick D]

Wow Aaron that's sounds awesome!!! Almost time to get yours back up and running!!

[65_LS1_T56]

Sounds great !
Thanks Mike!

Man that's got to feel good! Congratulation's
Thanks Wayne, yes even though its' basically my Chevelle now wrapped in a Corvette body, it still is a big effort to make sure everything works again!

Ipod era power in a 8 track era car, awesome! I love that thing Aaron, and would still buy it if the wife would give it up.
Yeah...I wouldn't hold your breath Ron.

Wow Aaron that's sounds awesome!!! Almost time to get yours back up and running!!
Funny, all it has are LS7 stock manifolds with 2 bolts holding each one on and no gaskets, lol. It will sound much better when we get the side exhaust back on it.
Yes, I've ordered a few parts to get going back on the Chevelle soon! That's the motor I really want to hear :guns:

[WSSix]

Congrats on getting the car running, Aaron. This is going to be a lot of fun to drive.

[waynieZ]

Thanks Mike!


Thanks Wayne, yes even though its' basically my Chevelle now wrapped in a Corvette body, it still is a big effort to make sure everything works again!



Well your doing a great job!

[Paraman1]

I think this car is going to be one of those that people just can't stay away from and instantly fall in Love with . Its like someone took a time capsule from the 1970's automotive world with everything cool in it and wrapped it around a space ship . I know I can't wait to see video of it hurtling around tracks and just generally being awesome . It was a real find and the fact that your taking it to a modern level of performance while preserving the original coolness factor is pretty awesome .

[65_LS1_T56]

Congrats on getting the car running, Aaron. This is going to be a lot of fun to drive.

Well your doing a great job!

I think this car is going to be one of those that people just can't stay away from and instantly fall in Love with . Its like someone took a time capsule from the 1970's automotive world with everything cool in it and wrapped it around a space ship . I know I can't wait to see video of it hurtling around tracks and just generally being awesome . It was a real find and the fact that your taking it to a modern level of performance while preserving the original coolness factor is pretty awesome .

Gosh, thanks guys! We hope everyone likes it, I'm sure some won't as not everyone grew up in or even remembers cars like this from the 70's. Heck, I'm sure there's a lot that grew up in the 70's and don't really remember anything :D

Like the Chevelle, it will be a build that happens in stages. Now is the modern drivetrain, then hopefully after we have some fun, upgrade the suspension beyond what we've done already. Really looking forward to driving it...I mean she is :underchair:

[Yelcamino]

Congrats Aaron on bringing this beast back to life! Looking forward to seeing it in action!

[fxdlryan]

Awesome work Aaron, Jill is gonna be the talk of the track in that thing. I love the new school power and tech cloaked by the early 70's custom....

[65_LS1_T56]

Congrats Aaron on bringing this beast back to life! Looking forward to seeing it in action!
Thanks Herb!

Awesome work Aaron, Jill is gonna be the talk of the track in that thing. I love the new school power and tech cloaked by the early 70's custom....
Thanks Ryan, can't wait to see your 67!

[DavidBoren]

Love the car. The history and reunion with the original builder is just too cool.

Your billet bits are top notch. Quit with the ambiguity and tell us what your "one more big piece to machine" is. Your coil brackets and tranny mount are both quite nice.

You do good work. Keep it up.

[instro84]

cool, i wouldn't touch the exterior at all, like the look.

[65_LS1_T56]

Love the car. The history and reunion with the original builder is just too cool.

Your billet bits are top notch. Quit with the ambiguity and tell us what your "one more big piece to machine" is. Your coil brackets and tranny mount are both quite nice.

You do good work. Keep it up.
Haha, well all I have to show is a CAD image at this point:
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/SCREEN%20SHOTS/AIR%20INTAKE_zpsht3ocvv5.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/SCREEN%20SHOTS/AIR%20INTAKE_zpsht3ocvv5.jpg.html)

cool, i wouldn't touch the exterior at all, like the look.
That's the plan! I'm too cheap to spend that much on a paint job! :lol:

[DavidBoren]

Trick custom billet air box?

[Flash68]

Vent canister?

[dontlifttoshift]

It's a satchell!!

[Flash68]

Can I change my answer to flask? I'm thirsty...

I am thinking the billet fanny pack is next....

[DavidBoren]

Probably a billet fanny pack...

I know all my fanny packs are custom cut billet.

[bdahlg68]

It's a satchell!!

Indiana Jones had one!

That made me lol.

[65_LS1_T56]

Trick custom billet air box?
Winner!

Vent canister?
Nope, see winner above :)

It's a satchell!!
LOL, you mean man purse :disgusted:

Can I change my answer to flask? I'm thirsty...

I am thinking the billet fanny pack is next....
Always thirsty! and... no

Probably a billet fanny pack...

I know all my fanny packs are custom cut billet.
I'm sure with some (A LOT) of time, one could be cut from billet..if I was totally out of other useful/cool/different/problem solvers/just plain awesome parts to make.

Indiana Jones had one!

That made me lol.
Geez, I guess he really did didn't he.





Yes, it's a direct throttle body to air cleaner (from a C6 Vette) adapter. There is a clamp ring that will go over the small tapered end of the filter and clamp the lower lip of it to the billet adapter. The small hole is for the IAT sensor.

Hope to get on it soon.

[65_LS1_T56]

I know a lot of you guys like seeing billet parts, well me too...here is something I am working on right now. Not for any of my cars, they are Hilborn stacks for a 572 BBC. This is just the lower, I'm working on the uppers now.
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/Miscellaneous/20150430_091443_zps8snksgmz.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/Miscellaneous/20150430_091443_zps8snksgmz.jpg.html)
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/Miscellaneous/2015-04-30%2011.19.15_zpsfo2xm98r.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/Miscellaneous/2015-04-30%2011.19.15_zpsfo2xm98r.jpg.html)

[Flash68]

Aaron, can I please get something billet that is beer related please? You're probably holding out and just haven't shown it yet..... :popcorn2:

[65_LS1_T56]

Aaron, can I please get something billet that is beer related please? You're probably holding out and just haven't shown it yet..... :popcorn2:

Well Dave, I haven't actually machined any trick aluminum parts thst are beer related, but I did fab up a 12 tap tower out of brushed stainless steel for the brew club. Oh, and my brewing stand is made from extruded aluminum that I reclaimed from some industrial guarding. :)

[fxdlryan]

Aaron - Those Hilborn stacks are sexy...

[65_LS1_T56]

Aaron - Those Hilborn stacks are sexy...

Thanks Ryan, here's a few pics of the tops finished. Just have to finish the screens now.
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/Miscellaneous/20150504_114635_zpsaoywp9zu.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/Miscellaneous/20150504_114635_zpsaoywp9zu.jpg.html)
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/Miscellaneous/20150504_114446_zpsgtiezne8.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/Miscellaneous/20150504_114446_zpsgtiezne8.jpg.html)

[fxdlryan]

Thanks Ryan, here's a few pics of the tops finished. Just have to finish the screens now.
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/Miscellaneous/20150504_114635_zpsaoywp9zu.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/Miscellaneous/20150504_114635_zpsaoywp9zu.jpg.html)
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/Miscellaneous/20150504_114446_zpsgtiezne8.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/Miscellaneous/20150504_114446_zpsgtiezne8.jpg.html)

You F***in Showoff..... :trophy-1302: Seriously, those are stunning.

[waynieZ]

Those are sweet!!!

[65_LS1_T56]

You F***in Showoff..... :trophy-1302: Seriously, those are stunning.

Those are sweet!!!

Thanks guys. Just spreadin' the love Ryan :D

[65_LS1_T56]

Ok, another major milestone! Not without a few issues...but hey, the car ran and drove under its own power tonight WOOT. Half way thru one of my now traditional test drives in the front lawn, I lost the dash completely. So I need to work that out.
Still left to do: fix dash, exhaust, seat mounts, harness bar. Oh and machine a air filter adapter.

Quick video walk around after a short spin. Note, those are not oil puddles under the car, the exhaust manifolds point straight down and it blew the rocks away when I snapped the throttle lol.
TyCvoZJL3Z0

[DavidBoren]

Awesome. It's always great to get her moving under her own power. Love this car.

[57hemicuda]

Sounds terrible, looks dated, dash doesn't work. You should save yourself a lot of headaches Aaron, and sell that car. To... I don't know, Well I'd do you a favor and take it off your hands.

[fxdlryan]

Thanks guys. Just spreadin' the love Ryan :D

You know I'm just jealous.... :innocent:

[65_LS1_T56]

Awesome. It's always great to get her moving under her own power. Love this car.

Thanks David!

Sounds terrible, looks dated, dash doesn't work. You should save yourself a lot of headaches Aaron, and sell that car. To... I don't know, Well I'd do you a favor and take it off your hands.

Like I said Ron, you'd have to get thru the wife first...trust me, that's not gonna happen :catfight:

You know I'm just jealous.... :innocent:

Haha, thanks Ryan.

[65_LS1_T56]

FINALLY, got the dash problem figured out with the help from the great people at Dakota Digital! I called and explained my issue after performing what seemed like 100's of checks, and they asked me to try one thing. Well, turns out, you can't have an ECU and a dash on the same ignition hot circuit. There is some "stray" voltage that doesn't seem to go away on key off. So the dash stayed on and the engine continued to run (Holley ECU saw voltage and kept motor running). So long story short, I got it working good now with a relay to fire the ignition signal to the Dakota Digital.

So now its off to B&B for the final items: connect leg-burners, seat mounts, and a harness bar. Two weeks from today is the Midwest Musclecar Challenge :confused59:

The orange Vette is another customer's '72 that was in for a TKO600 swap. It's a pretty nice car with a 406 SBC with FAST EFI.
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/20150514_214127_zpsbuvhzbgt.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/20150514_214127_zpsbuvhzbgt.jpg.html)

[65_LS1_T56]

OK, time for some more billet pics...who here likes pics? :y0!:

On Saturday, I got the inside of the air cleaner adapter made:
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/Miscellaneous/20150516_115900_zpsuzojqoxm.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/Miscellaneous/20150516_115900_zpsuzojqoxm.jpg.html)
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/Miscellaneous/20150516_135121_zpsjyypqlj1.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/Miscellaneous/20150516_135121_zpsjyypqlj1.jpg.html)

And today, I machined the outside of the adapter base:
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/Miscellaneous/20150517_144405_zpstkatfgio.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/Miscellaneous/20150517_144405_zpstkatfgio.jpg.html)
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/Miscellaneous/20150517_155114_zpsispmthpi.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/Miscellaneous/20150517_155114_zpsispmthpi.jpg.html)
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/Miscellaneous/20150517_184428_zpsjr95fnpv.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/Miscellaneous/20150517_184428_zpsjr95fnpv.jpg.html)
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/Miscellaneous/20150517_184548_zpsdlec4yfn.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/Miscellaneous/20150517_184548_zpsdlec4yfn.jpg.html)

I have to order some stock to machine the retainer ring. Hope to get to that this week...running out of time!!!

[FaBrycation]

Good stuff.

[waynieZ]

That's Sweet!

[glassman]

Very nice. Love the progress pics and cant wait to see her in all her glory before the dance!!

Funny thing about the dash and ECU, the amount of variables anymore with all the do-dads on our cars should drive us insane. And we love to drive!!

Good luck on the final thrash...looking forward to it, Mike

[65_LS1_T56]

Good stuff.

That's Sweet!

Very nice. Love the progress pics and cant wait to see her in all her glory before the dance!!

Funny thing about the dash and ECU, the amount of variables anymore with all the do-dads on our cars should drive us insane. And we love to drive!!

Good luck on the final thrash...looking forward to it, Mike

Thanks guys!

Mike, I'm sure things will look like it has two left feet at the first dance :) With little to no time to do any sort of shake down runs, we'll be crossing our fingers. I'm a bit leery about the roadcoarse, not so much on the autox.

[65_LS1_T56]

Well last evening we went out on a little shakedown drive. Everything feels and works great so far. Had a little issue with the aftermarket coil harnesses that I bought. The ps was not powering the coils at all. It was funny, engine started right up, ran and idled. A little more lopey than I remembered in the Chevelle though. And the throttle response was horrible :) I was trying to let it come up to temperature to make sure the fan would kick on before we took off on the road. The ds manifold started turning purple and the ps didn't change...
Yeah it was totally running on 4. Got the wires sorted out and wow, it ran great. Poorly crimped terminals were the culprit.
Few things to do still, the harness bar may be the biggest challenge left. Hope to get something that is safe figured out.

A few pics
Air filter finished and installed
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/20150521_201914_zps3eksamrp.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/20150521_201914_zps3eksamrp.jpg.html)

Recaro seat mounts, super low and all the way back..these cars are small inside!
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/20150521_202634_zpsci20u4rp.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/20150521_202634_zpsci20u4rp.jpg.html)
Billy showing off a little with the welder
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/IMG_3825_zpsxxljqefw.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/IMG_3825_zpsxxljqefw.jpg.html)
getting ready for the test drive
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/20150522_185356_zps4qmikpaf.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/20150522_185356_zps4qmikpaf.jpg.html)

Its so much fun to drive. The sound is awesome, loud enough but not obnoxious. It feels so light!
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb476/65_LS1_T56/66%20Corvette/20150522_201801_zpst9qbugaf.jpg (http://s1207.photobucket.com/user/65_LS1_T56/media/66%20Corvette/20150522_201801_zpst9qbugaf.jpg.html)

[GregWeld]

Hope your speedo is lying..... LOL



What a bad ass project! Glad it's coming along so nicely.

[65_LS1_T56]

Hope your speedo is lying..... LOL



What a bad ass project! Glad it's coming along so nicely.

:_paranoid Uh, ummm, well we were testing the Bonneville gearing :lol:
160mph at 2000rpm, not bad huh


Thanks, Greg I appreciate the compliment!

[analyte]

I hear you on the harness bar. I've not been able to find anyone around Nashville to bend one up for me. The race shops were interested, not a big
enough project (?), so I'll likely show up at MMC sans the bar.

Looks great!!

Kerry

[66fury]

Funny how nice aluminum gives me wood. !

[WSSix]

Congrats, Aaron! Glad the shake down run went well for you.

[b757jetdr]

Aaron
The vette looks great and like a ton of fun!! Great job on it.

Chris

[65_LS1_T56]

I hear you on the harness bar. I've not been able to find anyone around Nashville to bend one up for me. The race shops were interested, not a big
enough project (?), so I'll likely show up at MMC sans the bar.

Looks great!!

Kerry
Well, we came up with a very elegant solution Kerry...you'll have to check it out this weekend. Couldn't be simpler. Not something that you could incorporate into the Chevelle though.

Funny how nice aluminum gives me wood. !
Uh, no comment :lol:
Congrats, Aaron! Glad the shake down run went well for you.
Thanks Trey, so far so good. Just a few little things.
Aaron
The vette looks great and like a ton of fun!! Great job on it.

Chris
Appreciate it Chris! Sure get a lot of looks and thumbs up. Hope to just get thru the weekend with it, mainly to learn a few things. We ended up getting another spot so we are dual registered..nothing like beating it like a rented mule the first weekend :lostmarbles:

[Paraman1]

nothing like beating it like a rented mule the first weekend :lostmarbles:

Dad and I fixed a few things on the Elco this weekend . We then took it on its first trip that we felt we could beat on it . Wound up getting it sideways a few times , made the tires rub a lot on the inner fender wells and spewed some coolant in my buddies driveway after flogging it a bit to hard . I thought beating on it like a rented mule was why we built these things :)

Hope things go well for you !

[65_LS1_T56]

Dad and I fixed a few things on the Elco this weekend . We then took it on its first trip that we felt we could beat on it . Wound up getting it sideways a few times , made the tires rub a lot on the inner fender wells and spewed some coolant in my buddies driveway after flogging it a bit to hard . I thought beating on it like a rented mule was why we built these things :)

Hope things go well for you !

Lol, yes that is why we build them. Wish I had at least a few hundred miles on it. But hey, I did the same thing with the Chevelle...had just over a hundred miles and took it to the Motorstate Challenge. Went over 110 at Gingerman, ran countless autox runs, did the cruise and came back in one piece! Hope we have similar luck. Thanks Mike.

[b757jetdr]

Well good luck this weekend Aaron! I was hoping to cruise over and hang out for awhile but I just noticed the event is Friday and Saturday. I have to work both days, was planning to come out on Sunday.
Maybe I can catch up with all you guys at NCM event if your all there, and maybe even catch a ride:rolleyes:

Have fun this weekend!

[DavidBoren]

Your trick billet air filter turned out great. Very cool.

[syborg tt]

Wow I just read this entire thread and what an awesome project. I hope to make it out on Saturday to see the car in person.

[65_LS1_T56]

Well good luck this weekend Aaron! I was hoping to cruise over and hang out for awhile but I just noticed the event is Friday and Saturday. I have to work both days, was planning to come out on Sunday.
Maybe I can catch up with all you guys at NCM event if your all there, and maybe even catch a ride:rolleyes:

Have fun this weekend!
I'm not sure about NCM as it's the following weekend. MIS is planned and Motorstate in July. Thanks Chris.

Your trick billet air filter turned out great. Very cool.
Thanks, I really like it.

Wow I just read this entire thread and what an awesome project. I hope to make it out on Saturday to see the car in person.
Thanks Marty, please stop by and say hi!

[SSLance]

**whispering in Aaron's ear** "NCM, NCM, NCM..."

:D