Project My First Car 68 Camaro

[paulk68]

Well, I have decided to pull the trigger and finally start a build thread for my 68 Camaro. I bought this as my first car when I was 15 years old (1995). I remember it like it was yesterday going and having my dad test drive it and then he made me call back later that night and do all the negotiations for the price. Got it for 2800 dollars and could not have been happier. It is also a build to thank my dad first for getting me involved in cars since I was little. and second allowing a 15 year old kid buy a 68 camaro with all of my saved money. in his defense it was a 6cyl 3 speed car haha.

this is not how the car looked when I first brought it home but i can not find those pictures, it had stock hubcaps and steel wheels. But i Quickly changed that.
http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5df02b3127ccee87a2387643a00000030O01AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920150123124758054.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/

I drove it around my yard until I got my official license then I got my temp plates and had it ready for the road

http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5df02b3127ccee87ac951e5a900000030O01AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920150123124836673.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/

I drove it like that for a few years then swapped in a small block and 4 speed

http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5df02b3127ccee87a8bcee51700000030O01AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920150123124741686.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/

Decorated for my HS senior prom
http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5df02b3127ccee87b390244fe00000030O01AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920150123124808804.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D720/ry%3D480/

My older brother got a little jealous and picked himself up a chevelle

http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5df02b3127ccee87bb760c5eb00000030O01AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920150123124834408.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D720/ry%3D480/

Anyway after driving it hard for a few years as a kid, once in college it started showing the effects of being a daily driver in New England. That is when I parked it in my dads garage and started to tear it apart. THEN LIFE SET IN!!! College, Job, Marriage, House, baby 1, Bigger house, Baby 2. So there is sat for 10+ years

http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5df02b3127ccee87aa800246000000030O01AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920150123130508243.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D720/ry%3D480/

Finally it was time to either work on it or sell it. My wife wanted me to fix it because she knows how much it has meant to me. also she was a little jelous old girlfriends got to ride in it and she hasn't haha. So I pulled it out of my dads garage and put it in my

http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5df02b3127ccee87b9ec085c700000030O01AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920150123130600097.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D720/ry%3D480/

http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5df02b3127ccee87af759648e00000030O01AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920150123130931733.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D720/ry%3D480/

http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5df02b3127ccee87b8f4744e000000030O01AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920150123131625865.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/

well that is a quick background for my car, I have since began getting more done and will continue to update this thread in hopes it helps me actually get this thing DONE one day!!!

[fleetus macmullitz]

Paul,

What are your plans for it?

[Flash68]

Great story and great pics! Keep em comin..

[paulk68]

Paul,

What are your plans for it?

while my plans have changed so many times. I am trying to tone it down and make it realistic to my budget. I want a nice cruising car to enjoy with my family. Since some of my favorite child hood memories are ones going to car shows with my family, I hope that can be passed down to my two little girls.

I have a ridetech level 2 kit for suspension
Going with a stock LS3 480hp
Stock interior with Pro-Car seats
stock exterior just tighten up the gaps

basically just a nice driver for us to enjoy

[paulk68]

Great story and great pics! Keep em comin..


Thank you, I will keep this updated for sure. trying to use it as some motivation!!!

[Justin@EntropyRad]

I lobbied hard to get a pony car for my first, but mama-san killed that right away.

Can't wait to see what you end up with when done, and there is a plenty of eye-candy on here to keep you inspired

[paulk68]

So the first thing I wanted to do was have the shell blasted and see just how bad things were. I had Tony at muscle car metal strip the car and replace what was needed, after having it blasted it was way more solid that I thought it was. The floors needed help the rockers were shot and the left hand quarter needed a patch, but the rest of the car was pretty solid. also had him minitub the car with the floors out of it.

before:
http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5df02b3127ccee87a198a642a00000030O01AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920150123132022122.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D720/ry%3D480/

After:
http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5df02b3127ccee87b400d856500000030O01AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920150123183932875.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D720/ry%3D480/

http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5df02b3127ccee87b65b9c55b00000030O01AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920150123183932869.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/

http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5df02b3127ccee87b469104ca00000030O01AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920150123183935339.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/

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[GMTILT]

man, that's sweet !! keep the pics coming :trophy-1302:

[waynieZ]

Tony does nice work. We had a member Phil that had his 69 Firebird done there it ended up being a nice car.
We'll keep you motivated we love pictures!

[Spiffav8]

AWESOME! This is going to be fun to watch.

:popcorn2:

[Rick D]

Looks great, I love that it's your first car. Very cool story, now don't take another 10 years to finish it :poke: :thumbsup:

[Sonar Chief]

Love the history, that's what makes it YOUR car ..... now get er done!

[Sales@Dutchboys]

Looking good Paul! can't wait to see your build come to life. Love the history behind the car. Be sure to keep us updated.

[melman109]

off to a great start! Can't wait to see more :thumbsup:

[paulk68]

Thank you all for the kind words and support. Also a big thanks to Paul at Dutchboys for helping me out with a clean subframe to start installing my ridetech suspension on

http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5df04b3127ccee866aabff65100000030O01AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920150125132051314.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D720/ry%3D480/

http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5df04b3127ccee86766ca573e00000030O01AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920150125132100818.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/

I put this down in my basement so I can stay warm while mocking everything up

http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5df00b3127ccee87eb654155200000030O01AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920150121184035440.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/

http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5df00b3127ccee87f301b351200000030O11AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920150121184018470.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/

[WSSix]

great back story. good luck with the build!

[will69camaro]

I'll definitely be checking back in on this build.

[paulk68]

Started taking some pictures of the parts I have been collecting over the past 10 years haha


NOS rear spoiler bought new from local chevy dealership years and years ago
http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5dc01b3127ccee83cbd3e984700000030O01AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920150221000030258.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/

NOS inner fenderwells found local at swap meet got a very good price on them
http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5dc01b3127ccee83df2a4791e00000030O01AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920150220235925967.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/

NOS FRONT FENDERS found these on craigslist again very good deal
http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5dc01b3127ccee83d4a9bf84d00000030O11AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920150220235937721.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D720/ry%3D480/

Gas Cap bought this when they first came out
http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5dc01b3127ccee83ddd17392200000030O11AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920150221000042473.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D720/ry%3D480/

Marquez taillights, I really like the clean 67 lights better
http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5dc01b3127ccee83cbfd8199000000030O01AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920150221000111095.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D720/ry%3D480/

GM TILT Column
http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5dc01b3127ccee83cb104987b00000030O11AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920150221000123302.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D720/ry%3D480/

wiring harness
http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5dc01b3127ccee83d91df39cc00000030O01AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920150220235950073.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D720/ry%3D480/

This last pictures shows just how long I have been collecting for this build, This ex vendor actually still delivered on his parts. Stainless hardware kit
http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5dc01b3127ccee83c762c599800000030O11AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920150221000054567.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D720/ry%3D480/

[paulk68]

Got a little work done today mounted the new hooker LS motor mounts. Still need to trim a portion of the clamshell but just giving it a test fit.

[Justin@EntropyRad]

Lots of nice stuff going on this thing..can't wait to see where it goes!

[paulk68]

some more past work

http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5dc00b3127ccee83fc3ba61ac00000030O01AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920150221211937104.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/

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[paulk68]

:ups: Thank you Dale! I just keep collecting parts, now on to choosing Brakes :headscratch:

http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5dd38b3127ccee8f2c5b2112600000030O01AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920150319091447077.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D720/ry%3D480/

[waynieZ]

SWEET ! I love new parts.

[expensivehobby2]

Very cool. I'm in the same situation, about to finally get around to working on my first car (68 bird in my case). Also in MA.

Good luck and definitely subscribing.

-ray

[68MaroSam]

These pictures are looking great. I am also working on my first car a 68 Camaro. For me, it has been a 41 year journey with lots of life in between. Yours looks like it is going great. Nice part selection.

[Justin@EntropyRad]

Looks like a solid foundation, and the grille turned out nicely!

[SlowProgress]

I just subscribed. Really like first car stories. Those always seem to have the most memories. Cool to see you have Ridetech Tru Turn in the front. I went with that as well seems like a cool product. I have been thinking about using a clamshell front engine mount as well to keep vibration down. Whose mount is that ?
Keep up the good work !

Scott

[John510]

awesome story. Cant wait to see it completed.

[paulk68]

I just subscribed. Really like first car stories. Those always seem to have the most memories. Cool to see you have Ridetech Tru Turn in the front. I went with that as well seems like a cool product. I have been thinking about using a clamshell front engine mount as well to keep vibration down. Whose mount is that ?
Keep up the good work !

Scott

Hi Scott, Hooker recommends the Anchor industries 2292 mount. Some people have even opened them up and installed Poly inserts instead of the rubber.

http://www.summitracing.com/parts/ani-2292

[paulk68]

awesome story. Cant wait to see it completed.

It is projects like yours John and dozens of others on this site that keep me motivated!!! So thank you.

[SlowProgress]

Hi Scott, Hooker recommends the Anchor industries 2292 mount. Some people have even opened them up and installed Poly inserts instead of the rubber.

http://www.summitracing.com/parts/ani-2292

Thanks ! I just bookmarked and will compare the height to see if they work on my car. I think a soft mount will cut down on vibration, so I may give them a try. Again cool project !!

[paulk68]

:ups:

http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5da27b3127ccee898c9d3f2fb00000030O01AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920150406150237925.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D720/ry%3D480/

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[Al Moreno]

Starting to shape up nicely Paul and great story. I'm sure theres a lot of guys on here who wish they still had their first car me included.

[will69camaro]

Keep it forever Paul. I still have mine and am reminded all the time that people wish they kept theirs.

William

[Stevenp0827]

Great project and story.. just curious why you have to cut/trim the clamshell mounts? I have the same setup and didnt trim anything?
looks great keep it up.

[paulk68]

Great project and story.. just curious why you have to cut/trim the clamshell mounts? I have the same setup and didnt trim anything?
looks great keep it up.


Thanks Steve, not sure that tiny bit makes any difference but it was in the instructions that hooker sent with my plates. page 4


http://documents.holley.com/199r10678rev3.pdf

[DKz Garage]

Project is coming along nicely....... Keep the updates coming.

[Stevenp0827]

Thanks Steve, not sure that tiny bit makes any difference but it was in the instructions that hooker sent with my plates. page 4


http://documents.holley.com/199r10678rev3.pdf

Sorry Paul I missed that, prob cause I havent installed my headers yet. You are correct on the trimming..
see your already helping me! lol.

[paulk68]

Summit is having a pretty good sale on these seats so I had to pull the trigger, free shipping and 40 summit bucks off each seat.
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/sca-80-1000-51ls/overview/

[Spiffav8]

Summit is having a pretty good sale on these seats so I had to pull the trigger, free shipping and 40 summit bucks off each seat.
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/sca-80-1000-51ls/overview/

Nice! Plan to cover the rear seat or are you going to keep it stock? Looks like you could go either way assuming you have a black stock back seat.

Keep at it man!!

:captain:

[paulk68]

Nice! Plan to cover the rear seat or are you going to keep it stock? Looks like you could go either way assuming you have a black stock back seat.

Keep at it man!!

:captain:

Thanks Curtis, I am leaning towards a stock rear cover, but first I have to cut down my stock seat frame to fit with the mini tubs. The list just keep going hahaha.

[Spiffav8]

Thanks Curtis, I am leaning towards a stock rear cover, but first I have to cut down my stock seat frame to fit with the mini tubs. The list just keep going hahaha.

Yeah man that happens FAST! :lol: Worth it in the end though.

[paulk68]

been a little while since my last update, the camaro took a back seat after my youngest was diagnosed with an auto immune disease, after getting more info on the disease through doctors and having my wife get on my case to finish the car so that we can actually enjoy it as a family I bit the bullet and got my motor Thanks to a great price mach and discount I practically stole this 480HP LS3 crate motor it was delivered today :ups:

[tubbed69]

been a little while since my last update, the camaro took a back seat after my youngest was diagnosed with an auto immune disease, after getting more info on the disease through doctors and having my wife get on my case to finish the car so that we can actually enjoy it as a family I bit the bullet and got my motor Thanks to a great price mach and discount I practically stole this 480HP LS3 crate motor it was delivered today :ups:
First off hope all is well with your boy,great purchase.

[paulk68]

First off hope all is well with your boy,great purchase.

Thank you, it is my 4 year old daughter she is a trooper. She has Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis going to get her swimming as much as we can and her and her sister out in a garage to help me mess with the car. motor should be just what I need to keep me moving forward.

[waynieZ]

Paul best wishes and prayers for your daughter and your family. Sweet motor right there.

[paulk68]

Paul best wishes and prayers for your daughter and your family. Sweet motor right there.

Thank you very much Wayne!

[paulk68]

making some progress on my shock tower clearance for my ridetech coil overs. not bad for only having a drill, dremel and saw zall. going to have to keep trimming and test fitting.

https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5d720b3127cceea56ecd4c67f00000030O11AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920150901210636047.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/

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UPS also stopped by with this

https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5d720b3127cceea569257c6c300000030O01AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920150901210631160.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/

[Sonar Chief]

Paul best wishes and prayers for your daughter and your family. Sweet motor right there.

I second that .... keep plugging away at the car and one day it will be done!

Michael

[1in1969]

like to know more about that steering wheel! Shawn

[paulk68]

I second that .... keep plugging away at the car and one day it will be done!

Michael

Thank you!!! slowly but surely.

[paulk68]

like to know more about that steering wheel! Shawn

Hey Shawn, classic industries sells them, they have a few different horn button options as well as spoke finish options.

[1in1969]

Thanks! Shawn

[paulk68]

had 3 kid free hours today so I got my lower bump stops removed and continued working on opening up the coil pocket for the ridetch suspention.

http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5d700b3127cceea7e5a1c57f000000040O01AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920150921153605081.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/

http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5d700b3127cceea7ee63fd6bd00000030O01AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920150921153607949.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400

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[paulk68]

got my frame back from paint. So now my question on the order of things, should I get this new frame mounted up and get all the ridetech stuff back on the front them move on to my bolt in 4 link and rear end? or should i keep it rolling on the old frame and stock front suspension and do the bolt on 4 link. OR should I at this point get the bottom of the tub raptor lined then install 4 link?

https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5ce02b3127cceea3bb15aad4500000030O11AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920151023114736605.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D720/ry%3D480/

https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5ce02b3127cceea3a83960cec00000030O01AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920151023114734851.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D720/ry%3D480/

[expensivehobby2]

Very cool story and car.

I'm in a similar boat with my 68 Firebird. First car at 16 in 1996. Hope to start a thread this winter. Love seeing threads like yours to keep me motivated.

-Ray

[paulk68]

have been picking away at getting all my front suspension back onto the subframe.

https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5cf33b3127cceeacdf75c602e00000030O01AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920151112201814243.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D720/ry%3D480/

https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5cf33b3127cceeacd0ef1a15700000030O01AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920151112201806244.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D720/ry%3D480/

https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5cf33b3127cceeacc8d39403a00000030O01AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920151112201803607.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D720/ry%3D480/

Also thanks to Tom I was able to pick up my mast oil pan

https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5cf28b3127cceeac759cb452a00000030O01AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920151110011353323.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D720/ry%3D480/

[paulk68]

Was able to get my tru-turn in place thanks to some nice CT weather the past few days. Please all take a look and see if everything looks correct Haha Hope to get this guy back onto the car over the next few days

https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5cf09b3127cceeaed133e0dfa00000030O01AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920151128115515228.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D720/ry%3D480/

https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5cf09b3127cceeaecaefe6db000000030O01AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920151128115515133.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D720/ry%3D480/

https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5cf09b3127cceeaed8e23cc0100000030O01AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920151128115524193.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D720/ry%3D480/

https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5cf09b3127cceeaed9c414d5a00000030O11AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920151128115524520.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D720/ry%3D480/

https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5cf09b3127cceeaec0d6cacdb00000030O11AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920151128115530651.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D720/ry%3D480/

[MX145]

The frame looks nice! Your question about build sequence is a really good one. I've gone back and forth on what to do in what order along the entire way once I reached the point of epoxy. Changes things considerably once you have a finish you're trying not to scratch. Since I didn't have any running and driving history with my car I decided to put the car together in epoxy and run it knowing I would likely make changes. Keeping in mind the subframe and rear end were done in epoxy with intent to be the final finish. One thing I would change next time is I would spray the UPol Raptor liner on the tub before final drivetrain assembly but that's probably cause I'm lazy and don't want to tear the car back down to spray it now.

[paulk68]

The frame looks nice! Your question about build sequence is a really good one. I've gone back and forth on what to do in what order along the entire way once I reached the point of epoxy. Changes things considerably once you have a finish you're trying not to scratch. Since I didn't have any running and driving history with my car I decided to put the car together in epoxy and run it knowing I would likely make changes. Keeping in mind the subframe and rear end were done in epoxy with intent to be the final finish. One thing I would change next time is I would spray the UPol Raptor liner on the tub before final drivetrain assembly but that's probably cause I'm lazy and don't want to tear the car back down to spray it now.

yeah the order things need to be done is very confusing plus I second guess everything I do. I am going to get my 4 link in then look to upol the bottom.

[RPitts]

Great build! That Mast pan looks really nice. What made you go with it over the Holley?

[paulk68]

Great build! That Mast pan looks really nice. What made you go with it over the Holley?


Everything I read found the mast pan cleared the tru turn better than the Holley pan. I guess we shall see

[paulk68]

well I got the front clip back on the car. I have not torqued it down yet . Hopefully tomorrow I can take all the measurements and make sure it is square. I had to throw the radiator support on just for fun while I had all my new body bushings out.

https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5cc32b3127cceea8f77702c9000000030O01AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920151213201048621.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D720/ry%3D480/

[John510]

lookin good.

[Spiffav8]

Nice to see some progress! Keep at it man!

[tubbed69]

looking good,progress always feels good:thumbsup: :thumbsup:

[paulk68]

sometimes you just want to see it looking like a car again.
https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5cc00b3127cceeabe402de46300000030O01AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920151221181441575.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D720/ry%3D480/

[waynieZ]

Wow I was going to say nice progress for the subframe being on, and now we get more. Sweet! it's looking like a whole car again. It looks good Paul.

[paulk68]

Wow I was going to say nice progress for the subframe being on, and now we get more. Sweet! it's looking like a whole car again. It looks good Paul.

Thanks Wayne I know it all has to come off again but I just needed to see it as a whole car again to boost my spirits hahaha

[paulk68]

been working on my front brakes
https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a6df29b3127cceeb44b30be22f00000030O11AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920160108214051438.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D720/ry%3D480/


also pretty excited to cross another major purchase off the list :ups:

https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a6df29b3127cceeb448fa463ae00000030O01AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920160108213608551.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/

https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a6df29b3127cceeb45fb67c22b00000030O11AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920160108213627602.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/

[califconstruct]

Looking good!😎

[paulk68]

working through some fitment issues but they sure do look nice

https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a6df38b3127cceeb72c1dab2f500000030O01AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920160119112816448.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D720/ry%3D480/

https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a6df39b3127cceeb716eb00b0000000030O11AcuGLRyzctQ e3nwo/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00509039418920160118190947143.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D720/ry%3D480/

[KPC67]

looks good Paul.

[SlowProgress]

Looks great and familiar. Our cars are almost twins so far. Got me motivated to wolf down supper and head out in the garage!

[paulk68]

well it has been a while with the kids out of school for the summer it was hard to find time but have been able to start working on getting my LS3 out of the crate and actually fit it into the car

[paulk68]

Also pretty excited to get these guys yesterday :ups:

[paulk68]

Picked up a gm cowl hood locally. Not a spec of rust on it anywhere. Was told it came off a 69 camaro pace car and still has its original paint. not sure it is true still trying to research

[tubbed69]

That's a good find :thumbsup:

[waynieZ]

Nice score Paul:thumbsup:

[DT69Cam]

Wow I'm jealous. I'm also looking for a good used GM hood. Are there any numbers stamped at the rear drivers corner, fender side ?

[paulk68]

Wow I'm jealous. I'm also looking for a good used GM hood. Are there any numbers stamped at the rear drivers corner, fender side ?

I am going to pick up some paint stripper and check that area I have read the other tell tale signs are if the bump stop circles have 3 tack welds In a triangle shape and if the rear corners and kinda cut at a strange angle. This hood has both those if I could find a stamp I would be pumped as those actually came off the assembly line.

[DT69Cam]

I am going to pick up some paint stripper and check that area I have read the other tell tale signs are if the bump stop circles have 3 tack welds In a triangle shape and if the rear corners and kinda cut at a strange angle. This hood has both those if I could find a stamp I would be pumped as those actually came off the assembly line.

Yes, absolutely correct. Good luck.

[paulk68]

New Mast oil pan in place

[paulk68]

:ups:
it was 15 degrees today but I was just to excited I had to see what these looked like on the car.

[DT69Cam]

:ups:
it was 15 degrees today but I was just to excited I had to see what these looked like on the car.

Sweeet. 19* here.

[waynieZ]

Well that will warm the kockles of a car guys heart in any weather! Nice!

[Bakaruda]

Nice, stay on it. You only have one first car.

[paulk68]

thanks guys, so I had a little more time to fit the wheels today and noticed that with the front wheel secured it pops the center cap out. They were built for my baer brake package so i am not sure why they keep popping out the center cap.

[paulk68]

got my dust cover situation worked out, and just keep plugging away tures mounted and balanced and T-56 got a coat of paint.

[Rhino]

Great progress so far!

Was told it came off a 69 camaro pace car and still has its original paint. not sure it is true still trying to research

It's hard to say definitively, however the rear corners near the hood hinge have me thinking this is a reproduction. An example of the differences can be found here (http://www.camaros.net/forums/15-tag-team/165959-real-cowl-hood.html#post1295036)
That being said, being a reproduction is certainly not a bad thing if it fits. I've seen people spend just as much time fitting a NOS hood.

[SlowProgress]

The hood and wheels looks nice. Glad you are making progress. Heading into the best weather too!

[paulk68]

been able to get a little more done since all of the kids activities wrapped up with summer vacation

[paulk68]

quick wheel pic

[dhutton]

Looking good Paul.

Don

[waynieZ]

Sweet! it looks nice in there.

[tubbed69]

Looks very good,any progress feels good:thumbsup: :thumbsup:

[paulk68]

wow time goes fast. It has been over a year since my last update. I have been able to make some good progress and found a shop an hour from me that is ok working on it in stages. I was able to get the ridetech 4 link installed and a narrowed mosser 12 bolt installed. and some panels back on for fitment.

[paulk68]

second trip I was able to get all metal and first round of body work done and into some primer.

[paulk68]

third round all panels put back on and she came home. need to save more and and actually pick a color.

[minendrews68]

Just read through the build. Looks like your doing a great job Paul. I know your seeing the light at the end of the tunnel and your getting anxious! Keep up the good work.

[Spiffav8]

Buddy the car is looking awesome!! Lines look great and I love the way the front rotor fills the wheel. Pretty sexy cover you got there.

:captain:

[dhutton]

Glad to see you are still moving forward Paul. Looks great.

Don

[paulk68]

Buddy the car is looking awesome!! Lines look great and I love the way the front rotor fills the wheel. Pretty sexy cover you got there.

:captain:

Thanks! after seeing the cover on your car I had to get it. Thanks for showing it off.

[paulk68]

Glad to see you are still moving forward Paul. Looks great.

Don

Thanks Don it has been a roller coaster ride for sure but I am determined to finish it one day, thanks for all the great info and guidence

[waynieZ]

Wow That looks nice! Your moving now Paul. Your kicking my butt for progress, happy for you.

[paulk68]

Wow That looks nice! Your moving now Paul. Your kicking my butt for progress, happy for you.

Thanks Wayne just happy to know I am not the only one who takes so long to make progress.

[waynieZ]

When my name is mentioned it's because I'm going for the record :hairpullout:

[paulk68]

Well I felt the need to update this thread. I lost my father on 3/27 (his favorite chevy engine by the way), He was the man that gave me my passion for cars and I am very sorry he will never get to see this car finished. I do know however how proud he was to take his 15 year old son to go buy it and then all the time he took teaching me how to drive the three speed manual. I spent many hours and have countless memories doing car stuff with my dad and know he will be riding with me once it is done. I have since made some more progress and really hope to keep going with it in his memory.

[Roscoe03]

Sorry to hear about the loss of your father. The impact he made on your life and memories together can never be taken from you. Very nice build.

[Spiffav8]

I know there are no words that could ever help you feel better. I wish there where. I hope you and the family are doing as well as possible.

Curtis

[waynieZ]

So sorry to hear about your father passing. I'll keep you and your family in my thoughts.

[paulk68]

happy to report I have actually made some progress.

[paulk68]

and now the good stuff.

[dhutton]

Looks great Paul. Glad you kept it.

Don

[DWC]

I love that blue, nice choice.

Daniel

[Gmachine1911]

Looks fantastic. I love that blue! Keep updates coming!

[130fe]

Killer blue! Which color is that? Your progress looks awesome!

[waynieZ]

Nice Color! It looks great Paul, congratulations.

[paulk68]

Excited to see my hood in color today. Sporting Frank's Hood vents

[SSLance]

Looks fantastic!!!

[CCS]

Very very nice!!!

[Tony V]

gotta say i'm jealous seeing something in paint. Love the color, can't wait to see it done. BTW what color is that?

[paulk68]

thanks for the kid words guys. Cant believe i have finally hit this stage of the build. It is Gm blue stream.

[paulk68]

another shot

[JB400]

Coming along nicely

[214Chevy]

Damn...that blue looks good!!

[Spiffav8]

another shot

:brix: Daaaaang! Love that blue and the hood louvers.... Heck Yeah!!

I am so stoked for you! Get it done!! :lol:

[paulk68]

:brix: Daaaaang! Love that blue and the hood louvers.... Heck Yeah!!

I am so stoked for you! Get it done!! :lol:



Thanks Curtis watching yours get done was a big motivator!

[paulk68]

Been a long time since I posted so I will try to pick up the story where I left off First place I had to stop when I brought it home was to show my dad. The man behind my love of cars

[paulk68]

Once home I started adding some goodies. Ring brother door handles, Marquez taillights, ridetech gas cap.

[dhutton]

Looks great Paul. Glad you stuck with it.

Don

[waynieZ]

It looks great Paul.

[WSSix]

Very nice, Paul! That was a good choice for the color.

[Ricochet]

Looks great Paul!!!! Like the color.

[paulk68]

Thanks guys! Some more updates working on the grill and the rear brakes. It is nice to add this to the car instead of always taking things off lol.

[paulk68]

Wheels and more trim added. The rear is still set all the way up at the moment hope to drop it down soon.

[paulk68]

Also been working on the interior sound deadening.