69 Corvette Road Race Build

[Neil B]

Hey guys, I wanted to introduce my new project. I was fortunate enough to acquire 69MyWay's latest flared '69 Corvette roadster. He did a beautiful job getting the car in paint with a running and driving chassis. Now I get to carry it forward with the finishing details. I am currently working with Ben Hermance on some renderings for the car. I can confidently say that my vision for this car includes a vintage road race vibe with modern twists. It has been a lifelong goal to build a flared 69 Corvette, so I'm thrilled about the opportunity to take this great foundation over the finish line.

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20150930_101556_zps4hs3mqc4.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20150930_160357_zpsqzjkrlu0.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20150930_220205_zpsvddxdrd2.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20151001_203337_zpszvl1ays0.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20150930_220228_zpsdfxwwbps.jpeg

[Z06Joe]

This is gonna be an awesome build!!! Love these Road Race Vettes!!!!

[Corey R.]

Neil has built some very nice cars. I can't wait to see how this one finishes out.

[Flash68]

Very cool Neil! :thumbsup:

[vstol]

You know I will follow this one!

http://www.lateral-g.net/forums/showthread.php4?t=44704

[OLDFLM]

Anxiously waiting... :popcorn2:

[Neil B]

You know I will follow this one!

http://www.lateral-g.net/forums/showthread.php4?t=44704

I'm looking to you for inspiration! : )

[Rod P]

Like!!

[GregWeld]

How'd I miss this!?!?!


Love this!

[sokoloka]

Excited to see where this one goes!

[Spiffav8]

Oh yeah....this is going to be fun. :popcorn2:

[Neil B]

During some brainstorming for the rendering, I did some research on C3 Corvette racing history as well as other types of road racing from that Era. I also read (prior car owner) Chris DcDonald’s novel The Key to My Heart which is a story based on his first black ’69 Corvette. Corny as it may be, I was inspired to create a fictitious (but plausible) back story for my project, similar to what Steve Strope does for some of his creations. So here goes…

[Neil B]

The year was 1970 and Formula 1 rookie Emerson Fittipaldi had captured the U.S. Grand Prix victory at Watkins Glenn for Team Lotus. While in the U.S., Lotus Engineering Chief Colin Chapman met with Tony DeLorenzo along with top GM executives. Chapman was impressed with the success of the Owens Corning L88 Corvettes in FIA World Sportscar competition. Wanting to get young Emerson additional exposure and seat time in the U.S., Chapman commissioned DeLorenzo and team to build and campaign a third Corvette with Emerson as lead driver for selected races in the ’71 season. As a marketing experiment with his sponsor, Chapman requested that the car wear the now famous black-and-gold JPS (John Player Special) livery a full year prior to it’s introduction on the Lotus F1 cars. However, early in the ’71 season, the Owens Corning Corvette team disbanded before the JPS/Fittipaldi car was completed. A few months ago, a partially completed race car with lineage back to DeLorenzo was recently discovered in an Illinois corn field. The story of the car unfolded but, unfortunately, there are no records to ensure completion of the car with historical accuracy other than what is known about the Owens Corning cars. Therefore, the plan is to complete the car with a retro-modern feel with visual clues to it’s heritage.

This car incorporates all of my favorite things from the car hobby and my old racing days. I hope you guys like the direction it’s headed….

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/NeilB69Vette_con1_rev4_zps9q53jq2i.jpg

[vstol]

very good looking car

[Sonar Chief]

:thumbsup: :thumbsup: Very nice, I'll be watching this one fer sure!

[OLDFLM]

Love it! Subscribed! Thanks for the new wallpaper!

[Corey R.]

Don't leave out the interesting tid-bit that during the 1970's, while the rising popularity of clear drinks such as vodka and gin controlled the disco nightclubs, the Vette was used as a whiskey runner from the Illinois corn silos into the underbelly of dark and seedy neighborhoods in South Chicago to avoid tax stamps.

[awr68]

Love it! Great job on the rendering!

[Neil B]

Don't leave out the interesting tid-bit that during the 1970's, while the rising popularity of clear drinks such as vodka and gin controlled the disco nightclubs, the Vette was used as a whiskey runner from the Illinois corn silos into the underbelly of dark and seedy neighborhoods in South Chicago to avoid tax stamps.

LOL. Yes, the car traded hands several times during the 70's but stayed in the Midwest. The car was fortified with steel floor pans and heavy duty suspension components to handle the added weight of the whiskey running payload. The car was also extensively street raced in Southside Chicago back in the day. The car still wears decades-old slicks that have been screwed into the original Rallye wheels. LOL.

[Neil B]

It's been fun learning about the history of these cars. This was Tony DeLorenzo's personal black '69 L88 back in the day. He added the L88 flares and several other items from the Owens Corning parts bins. The car received a Nabor Bros. restoration and sold for $680,000 at auction last year.

http://www.corvetteblogger.com/images/content/2014/081814_43b.jpg

[Yelcamino]

Very cool! Looking forward to following along! :popcorn2:

[Neil B]

Just a little update... I'm still waiting in line at the chassis shop for the roll bar. I got the CCW wheels ordered and they should be here in a week or two. The Hooker headers were hitting the body and generally looking a bit tired, so I put on a new set of Doug's headers. The driver's side needed some persuasion around the Borgeson steering box and the frame rail. The passenger side went in so easy I figured I was doing it wrong. Next up is building some seat brackets for the Kirkey vintage race seats.

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20151108_151726_zpslp3tqkir.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20151108_154138_zpssr8xderw.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20151107_135254_zpstefblgom.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20151107_115039_zps1dzmltdc.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20151108_191717_zpsyu2dnww9.jpeg

[Bakaruda]

Very nice car. I have a 70 LS5 Convertible, it is also Black.

[sokoloka]

Excellent choice with CCW wheels! They fit beautifully on my vette.

[vstol]

looking good

[Neil B]

Excellent choice with CCW wheels! They fit beautifully on my vette.

Yes, they look great on your car! I can't wait to get mine.

[FLYNAVY53]

awesome build!! can't wait to see it come together!

[Neil B]

I had a great weekend picking up my wheels at CCW and attending the HSR Vintage 24 hour race at Daytona. There where several C3 Corvettes racing this weekend to give me inspiration.

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20151114_102552_zpsea71okvp.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20151114_141323_zpselpfdjvx.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20151114_111357_zps1idsbefe.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20151114_112317_zpseahudgbf.jpeg

[Neil B]

Picking up my wheels...

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20151113_151029_zpsc06ul1h2.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20151113_151100_zpsyw4lmwsq.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20151113_150929_zps9td7oc7q.jpeg

[Neil B]

1st test fit for my new rollers!

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20151115_091233_zpspsadttii.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20151115_093621_zpspt06ol9b.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20151115_093713_zpsfs0wpg3o.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20151115_093906_zps5w6rse0u.jpeg

[FLYNAVY53]

Those are simply awesome!!

[Flash68]

Oh yeah! :bigun2:

[DEIGuy38]

looking good, love the wheels and the color scheme in the rendering.

[vstol]

I believe you nailed it

[Ron in SoCal]

LOVE where this is going Neil :cheers:

[BMR Sales]

I had a great weekend picking up my wheels at CCW and attending the HSR Vintage 24 hour race at Daytona. There where several C3 Corvettes racing this weekend to give me inspiration.

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20151114_102552_zpsea71okvp.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20151114_141323_zpselpfdjvx.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20151114_111357_zps1idsbefe.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20151114_112317_zpseahudgbf.jpeg

The Classic 24 was fun - I was there Thurs - Sun

[Neil B]

The Classic 24 was fun - I was there Thurs - Sun

Yes, it was a really cool event.

[FLYNAVY53]

sooooo slick! what size did you end up with?

[fleetus macmullitz]

#ZoraApproves

[Neil B]

sooooo slick! what size did you end up with?

I went with 18x12.5 rear wheels and 345-35-18 tires. This is not a slam dunk combo and it is definitely pushing the limits with the Custom Image flares. I desperately wanted to run an 18x11 front with a 315 tire, but it just wasn't going to happen without major post-paint surgery. I ended up with a conservative 18x10 275-35-18 front combo, but I do see a larger front setup down the road.

[WSSix]

Great looking wheels! Good choice for the car.

[FLYNAVY53]

What are you running suspension wise? The Ride Tech guys got 315/30/18s on 10.5s at all 4 corners in an unflared car running their new suspension set up. That being said, its definitely not cheap!

[sokoloka]

They look absolutely fantastic Neil!

[Neil B]

What are you running suspension wise? The Ride Tech guys got 315/30/18s on 10.5s at all 4 corners in an unflared car running their new suspension set up. That being said, its definitely not cheap!

I'm running stock coil spring front suspension for starters. I may go coilover down the road, but you can get the stock setup to work pretty good on these cars. The rear suspension is a DragVette 6-link with Van Steel offset arms. The Ridetech guys run lots of backspacing which puts the tire into the sway bar and frame on a stock setup. If I end up needing that extra inch of wheel and tire up front for track events, I'll just buy another set of front wheels dedicated for racing where a little rubbing is no big deal.

[Neil B]

They look absolutely fantastic Neil!

Thanks!

[Cris@JCG]

Luv your concept on this build!

This is my absolute favoarite C3 race car..

http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af278/jcgrestoration/68-Chevy-Corvette_L88-DV-09-RMM-01_zpsjth0hhep.jpg (http://s1015.photobucket.com/user/jcgrestoration/media/68-Chevy-Corvette_L88-DV-09-RMM-01_zpsjth0hhep.jpg.html)

[NAPA 68]

This thread is bad ass! Really digging the C3 road race inspired builds:idea:

[sokoloka]

Making me want to build a vert to go with my coupe ...:snapout:

[Neil B]

Making me want to build a vert to go with my coupe ...:snapout:

LOL. You just finished yours! I'll trade ya. : )

[rustomatic]

Gold is good!

[Neil B]

I was able to take a quick lap around the neighborhood today. I've been trying to knock some small stuff off the list before the car goes to the chassis shop next week.

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20151228_151209_zpsqg8naqjp.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20151228_151145_zpsbf76tssg.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20151228_152412_zpsrgohwlvi.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20151228_152436_zpsgefhcdn5.jpeg

[Flash68]

Nailed it!

[waynieZ]

Nice!

[vstol]

Safe to say those tires pick up a little amount of gravel. Looks great

[Cris@JCG]

Be prepared to have a few extra diffs lying around or make the investment on 30 spline upgrade!

Car looks great..

http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af278/jcgrestoration/20151114_133557_zpsnq4zflzd.jpg (http://s1015.photobucket.com/user/jcgrestoration/media/20151114_133557_zpsnq4zflzd.jpg.html)

[Spiffav8]

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20151228_151209_zpsqg8naqjp.jpeg

Oh my F... :thumbsup: :thumbsup:

[GregWeld]

I sheared a few sets of these..... mine are now custom built pieces....







Be prepared to have a few extra diffs lying around or make the investment on 30 spline upgrade!

Car looks great..

http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af278/jcgrestoration/20151114_133557_zpsnq4zflzd.jpg (http://s1015.photobucket.com/user/jcgrestoration/media/20151114_133557_zpsnq4zflzd.jpg.html)

[Try2paz]

WOW simply sweet ride!

[Neil B]

I took the car over to Tom Argue's shop today. Tom is going to do some misc. fabrication, paint the roll cage, and cut/buff the paint. I also found a suitable hard top for the car and it fit right up.

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160104_160616_zpshpcmxokr.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160104_160656_zpszjjcbivp.jpeg

[Neil B]

It's been a slow month on the build. I ran into scheduling issues with the chassis fab shop. I ended up having to use a different shop in order to keep the project moving. The car is now scheduled to go to Pro Fab Performance next week for the cage work. The car will then go back to Tom Argue for paint work and a few misc. items. I did receive my gauges from SpeedHut. I went with their Legacy Series. I was also able to mock up the center cluster with gauges and switch panel but it still needs to be painted.

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160211_092352_zpsiszfjw7e.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160211_092344_zpsmapjkv3x.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160211_101500_zpsyro5nusp.jpeg

[Spiffav8]

Those are sharp looking!

[WSSix]

Good job, Neil. Love the direction the car is headed.

[Neil B]

Chassis work is finally underway. I was able to get the car over to Pro Fab Performance in Port Richey this week. They fitted the main hoop and we finalized the seat position yesterday.

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160225_164302_zpsrvuihfv4.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160225_162651_zps0hxcsgrh.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160225_161740_zpszi4hfwzt.jpeg

[89 RS]

Looks awesome! I love the wheels and gauges.

[Nine Ball]

Love the widebody Corvettes. Rendering is great! Any significance to the number 87? You mentioned L88 a few times, might be a good number too.

[Neil B]

Love the widebody Corvettes. Rendering is great! Any significance to the number 87? You mentioned L88 a few times, might be a good number too.

I chose the number because my first race car carried the #87.

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/MMFFArticle.jpg

[Neil B]

The cage is coming together nicely. I'm planning to bring the car back to Tom Argue tomorrow for misc. items and paint.

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160229_165431_zpst17puypx.jpg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160229_165408_zps6rujmz67.jpg

[vstol]

Neil what seats are you planning on using?

[Neil B]

Neil what seats are you planning on using?

They are Kirkey Vintage Class low backs.

[Neil B]

Pro Fab Performance completed the cage today and I am very pleased with the result. The car is now back at Tom Argue's to paint the cage and hard top, cut/buff, etc.

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160301_115752_zpsby39qtvv.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160301_115804_zps4vjhdhxq.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160301_115838_zpsruzmlkg7.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160301_120359_zpsltfiva33.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160301_120412_zpsdbt0hvot.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160301_122446_zpsbn8sy8to.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160301_122559_zpsgm1v3zmd.jpeg

[Neil B]

I got some more inspiration last weekend at the Amelia Island Concours. They had a C3 rolling chassis which really highlighted the roll cage chassis pickup points.

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160313_152303_zpsicgua59g.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160313_151105_zpsqngoltew.jpeg

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http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160313_151728_zpsxxp2pzyi.jpeg

[Chad-1stGen]

Cool build. Are you just going for road race inspired or will you compete with the car?

[Neil B]

Cool build. Are you just going for road race inspired or will you compete with the car?

The plan is to build the car as a street fighter with all of the safety and underpinnings for occasional track days and autocrosses. But I'm paying attention to SVRA/HSR rules, so if I get the itch again to go wheel-to-wheel racing I don't have to start completely over.

[Neil B]

Final cut and buff is underway.

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG_2702_zpsq7euazkv.jpg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG_2704_zpsihzwianf.jpg

[Neil B]

Some updated progress pics....

Fabricated front spoiler:
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160419_104804_zpslclf5lyt.jpeg
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160419_110029_zpsjo3ml7bj.jpeg
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160419_104844_zpsmzrmrglz.jpeg
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160419_105112_zpshwqjiioa.jpeg

Hood pins and custom wiper closeout panel:
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160419_105018_zpshkc0odbu.jpeg
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160419_104854_zpsfedstp6d.jpeg

Halon Fire Extinguisher mount:
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160419_104913_zpsdwg657ns.jpeg

Fuse box mount bonded to the firewall:
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160419_104957_zpsh9mnzexp.jpeg

Plates to seal the cage mounting points:
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160419_105307_zpsia3ewzzq.jpeg

[Flash68]

Well done!

[89 RS]

Lookin' good!

[Zoomin]

The C3 has to be the most underrated car out there for the type project you're doing. Love your project.

[Neil B]

Cut and buff with 1,500 and then 3,000.
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160516_120703_zpswxtqwvzr.jpeg
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160516_121433_zpszobz03jo.jpeg

Interior finished in light grey bedliner.
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160516_120758_zpsnrsug0it.jpeg
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160516_120820_zps06bpjlcc.jpeg

Cage is finished in Hot Rod black.
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160516_120922_zpsqb7lhppz.jpeg
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160516_120939_zpsd8acdhau.jpeg
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160516_121027_zpsflng7srp.jpeg
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160516_121119_zpszsil9wcf.jpeg

Finished front bumper and air dam.
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160516_121230_zpsd3qrvuks.jpeg

[Neil B]

The C3 has to be the most underrated car out there for the type project you're doing. Love your project.

Thanks!

[vstol]

Looking good Neil

[FLYNAVY53]

Neil, I love what you've done with this car...I was watching the previous owners build thread for a while and love where you've taken it!

In all seriousness, if you ever decide you're going to move on to another project and sell this one, please let me know as I just sold my '69 roadster a few months ago and have started looking for something in the same look and feel as what you're building.

Thanks!
Greg Paules
585-746-9022
[email protected]

Keep up the great work!

[andreb]

Awesome build!

[Neil B]

Cut and buff has been completed. Bumpers and spoiler painted and installed.

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160518_131511_zpsgfpmb79a.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160518_141422_zpslpzhfmyb.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160518_141239_zpskekounxw.jpeg

[Flash68]

so bad azz!! :bigun2:

[GregWeld]

so bad azz!! :bigun2:



What he said!!! Just awesome!!

[Panteracer]

Very cool. Nothing like a vette with
Flaires, big cheater slicks and side pipe headers

Now time to go run it hard

Bob

[andreb]

Now that's a shine. Looking awesome!

[Josh@Ridetech]

Sweet! Big fan of the C3's. Good job man.

[Centerforce]

This is just beautiful, and the paint looks like glass! Cant wait to see some pics of it in action.

[Neil B]

The hard top installed...

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160609_162250_zpsjlu9sogt.jpeg

Game face on...

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160609_162844_zpsnjj5ybnk.jpeg

A Little bling.

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160609_121502_zpsi83bydvg.jpeg[/URL]

[FLYNAVY53]

so much awesome!!

[gnx7]

Those wheels just look so correct for this car! Looks awesome so far!

[Neil B]

I came across this picture today. I thought it was very inspiring and captures the feeling I'm trying to convey through my project.

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/Vintage%20Race%20Photo_zpso25xvptt.jpg

[Panteracer]

Not sure where you are from but the Larry Park
Memorial is sat/sun July 2/3 at Crows landing-CA
There will be plenty of your type of cars there
running as they come each year... very cool stuff

I will be in that funny looking black Italian car with
the wing as my Bird won't be quite ready

Bob

[fleetus macmullitz]

I came across this picture today. I thought it was very inspiring and captures the feeling I'm trying to convey through my project.

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/Vintage%20Race%20Photo_zpso25xvptt.jpg

Not sure if it is or not, but it reminds me of the James Garner cars.

[Panteracer]

My buddy has James Garner's backup Lola T-160 Can Am car
He will be running it again at the Monterey Historics
Its been a couple of years since we were there
I am the Crew Chief.. he says he has a new ace
mechanic to help us out this year to make life easier
I like easier the older I get:)

Bob

[JohnC]

My buddy has James Garner's backup Lola T-160 Can Am car
He will be running it again at the Monterey Historics
Its been a couple of years since we were there
I am the Crew Chief.. he says he has a new ace
mechanic to help us out this year to make life easier
I like easier the older I get:)

Bob


Could you take some pics of it for us? very cool.

Thanks.

[Neil B]

Not sure where you are from but the Larry Park
Memorial is sat/sun July 2/3 at Crows landing-CA
There will be plenty of your type of cars there
running as they come each year... very cool stuff

I will be in that funny looking black Italian car with
the wing as my Bird won't be quite ready

Bob

Thanks Bob. Sounds like a great event. Unfortunately, I'm all the way out East in Tampa, FL.

[Neil B]

Fab and paint work has been completed. I will bring the car home in a few days for wiring, dash/gauges, and interior.

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160701_144055_zps7je8wy1i.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160701_144112_zpsexggwwnk.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160701_143958_zps8klmp05p.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160701_144020_zps0vid7bop.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160701_144041_zpsidrbxb86.jpeg

[waynieZ]

The car looks great, I love the hood I had one on my 69 Z/28 in the 70's.

[Panteracer]

Pics from Park Memorial
Sorry might have been a few more on Saturday
I had to leave early to see my Carb guy

Bob

[Panteracer]

Another pic

[Panteracer]

Larry Parks first race car
Worth a lot of money

[Panteracer]

Another fastback
There was one more really nice car but
Taking the picture was right into the Sun so
I never got it. I think a few did not come back
on Sunday and a few have switched to new cars
and are running in Cam S class. A very tough class
with multiple National champions that was won but
a young Lady out of Oregon in a newer ZO6

Fun times

Bob

[89 RS]

Cool pics, thanks for sharing!

[Neil B]

Another fastback
There was one more really nice car but
Taking the picture was right into the Sun so
I never got it. I think a few did not come back
on Sunday and a few have switched to new cars
and are running in Cam S class. A very tough class
with multiple National champions that was won but
a young Lady out of Oregon in a newer ZO6

Fun times

Bob

Thanks for sharing Bob!

[Bakaruda]

Which vendor did you get your Hood and Fender Flares from?

[Neil B]

Which vendor did you get your Hood and Fender Flares from?

The flares are from Custom Image Corvettes. I'm not sure where the hood was sourced by the previous car owner, but it's a standard-issue L88 'short' hood.

[Neil B]

After lots of debate, I decided not to start with the full race livery on the car. We ended up doing a subtle Owens-Corning L88 style stripe which integrates well with the satin black and powder-coated parts of the car.

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/20160801_143239_zpspt8740fv.jpeg

[FLYNAVY53]

love it!....thats very sharp

[Neil B]

Here is another view.

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160801_143212_zpswbwv5665.jpeg

[andreb]

That looks awesome!

[BMR Sales]

Looks Fantastic!

[Neil B]

Tom Argue Design completed all of the fab and paint work on the car. I will be bringing it home to wire it and do the interior. The City of Tampa decided to tear out our neighborhood streets for a water main project, so it may be a week or 2 before I can get it home.

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160809_115703_zps9mgrl7cb.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160809_121307_zpswl6bosog.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/20160809_121243_zps1e9qrbj6.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160809_121324_zpsv2b3w0wz.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160809_121338_zpss7pnohri.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160809_121400_zpsmah8rpkv.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160809_121503_zpsjqrkyfx0.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160809_121429_zpss5zan2ri.jpeg

[Zoomin]

Dayumm! That's just perfect! :confused59:

[Al Moreno]

That is just dad in a good way. Congrats on the build Neil :cheers:

[Panteracer]

Just got back from the montery historics
and took a couple of pics of some vettes

Bob

[Panteracer]

Second pic

Bob

[Neil B]

Just got back from the montery historics
and took a couple of pics of some vettes

Bob

Thanks for the pics Bob!

[Panteracer]

Neil
you are welcome

Bob

[NOPANTS68]

This car could be my favorite C3 of all time. Colors, wheels, and details are just bitchin. Car looks meaner than a mother in law.

[Neil B]

This car could be my favorite C3 of all time. Colors, wheels, and details are just bitchin. Car looks meaner than a mother in law.

Thank you very much!

[Neil B]

Well, after 8 months of having to find a new roll cage fabricator, an emergency out of town work assignment, and a city water main replacement project in front of my driveway, the car finally came home today. I'm looking forward to the wiring and interior project, as I have never done that type of work before.

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160907_104911_zpshgvlawel.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160907_105024_zps0oehbolr.jpeg

[WSSix]

Congrats! The car looks great, Neil. Be sure to document your wiring so you can trouble shoot it in the future without having to trace all the wires.

[Neil B]

Here is the mock up of the driver's seat and steering wheel. I chose a Momo Prototipo wheel and mated it to an NRG short hub and quick release. The quick release was a must-have with the Kirkey race seats and side pipes. I will be using the stock Tilt/Tele column. The tilt mechanism had some play in it so I pulled it out and replaced the lower knuckle/lock shoe pins, column sphere, and upper/lower bearings. I'm retaining the turn signal switch but the ignition and starter switches will be relocated to the dash.

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Steering%20Wheel_zpsbse94jf0.jpg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Steering%20Wheel%20Removed_zps7vldqenl.jpg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Steering%20Wheel%202_zpsyyjw7qoq.jpg

[Blake Foster]

Here is another view.

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160801_143212_zpswbwv5665.jpeg

is that the C10 Tom argue built with our Chassis in it? in the back ground?

DUH. look one more post down before you start asking stupid questions!!

[Neil B]

is that the C10 Tom argue built with our Chassis in it? in the back ground?

DUH. look one more post down before you start asking stupid questions!!

Yes, Tom did the paint and misc. fabrication on my car. That C10 is badass.

[FLYNAVY53]

Neil, nice work.....now I'm going to kindly ask that you get out of my head....

You've managed to pretty much build exactly what I would have/want to, right down to the CCW Classics, Hoosiers, and the Prototipo wheel. The only thing I would have done is gone with Fathom Green and an LS7 (I realize both the paint and motor were done when you purchased the car).

Keep up the good work, Im jealous as hell!

[Neil B]

Neil, nice work.....now I'm going to kindly ask that you get out of my head....

You've managed to pretty much build exactly what I would have/want to, right down to the CCW Classics, Hoosiers, and the Prototipo wheel. The only thing I would have done is gone with Fathom Green and an LS7 (I realize both the paint and motor were done when you purchased the car).

Keep up the good work, Im jealous as hell!

Too funny. : ) Yes, certain parts are must-have's for a build like this. After looking at the Garner AIR L88 car, various early 70's 911's, Strope's Martini Mustang, etc. I just had to run the Prototipo wheel. I'll either do an LS-based motor or a really nasty big block down the road, but the current motor sounds good and should run good with the T56/4:11 combo. The Fathom Green would look awesome over the flares as well. The Babe Headley L88 race car is dark green and looks killer. I saw that car at Pebble Beach go through auction about 15 years ago. It was gorgeous and I should have bought it.

[Centerforce]

Prototipo's are great wheels. It looks extra cool with the gold hardware, too!

[syborg tt]

Evening Neil,

What a great looking project and thank you for sharing the build up.

Also this post has finally confirmed it that is exactly the steering wheel I am looking for. I guess I will give old Tommy Boy a call in the morning and tell him to order one up for me.



Here is the mock up of the driver's seat and steering wheel. I chose a Momo Prototipo wheel and mated it to an NRG short hub and quick release. The quick release was a must-have with the Kirkey race seats and side pipes. I will be using the stock Tilt/Tele column. The tilt mechanism had some play in it so I pulled it out and replaced the lower knuckle/lock shoe pins, column sphere, and upper/lower bearings. I'm retaining the turn signal switch but the ignition and starter switches will be relocated to the dash.

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Steering%20Wheel_zpsbse94jf0.jpg

[Flash68]

Yes, Neil, Yes. Fantastic, sir. :thumbsup:

[groovyjay]

You just built my dream car!!!

[Neil B]

You just built my dream car!!!

Thank you! It's nice that other people are digging this build.

[Neil B]

I'm still chipping away at it. I got the steering column rebuilt, the engine plumbing finished, the Ridetech steering brace installed, the engine wiring harness completed and the dash harness roughed in. I'm using an AAW Highway 15 kit for the wiring. When I get back from SEMA, I'm going put the column back in it and then fire the engine, check vitals and do a rough tune. Then, I will tidy up the dash harness and wire the rear lights.

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20161031_115850_zpswyla70xn.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20161030_193323_zpsielmlqbe.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20161030_193455_zpshqohmjsy.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20161015_185942_zpspglumciu.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20161031_121840_zps9sfrj0ks.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20161031_121916_zpsnsp82yg7.jpeg

[Neil B]

I just completed lots of little odds and ends under the hood. Not a trace of Pro Touring in here... just old school hot rodding. Here is the finished engine bay.

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20161221_105851_zps2odhedi6.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20161221_105832_zpsoi6k8dpn.jpeg

[syborg tt]

Looks very nice.

[66tintop]

Awesome corvette , excellent project ! Love it all ! If I may ask who makes the valve covers or are they vintage ?? Thanks for sharing!!!!

[Neil B]

Awesome corvette , excellent project ! Love it all ! If I may ask who makes the valve covers or are they vintage ?? Thanks for sharing!!!!

Thanks! I really struggled to find a set of valve covers that fit around the booster and had the right look for my project. I ended up finding these which are made for offshore powerboats by Hardin Marine. I bought them raw and had them media blasted.

[66tintop]

Thanks! I really struggled to find a set of valve covers that fit around the booster and had the right look for my project. I ended up finding these which are made for offshore powerboats by Hardin Marine. I bought them raw and had them media blasted.

Thanks for the valve cover info, much appreciated and enjoy your corvette ! Perfect c3

[FLYNAVY53]

Neil, this continues to be my favorite build going....very curious to see what you end up doing with the dash....Ive got a spare set of those 1/16 inch steel CNC'd brackets that were bumping around the Corvette forum a few years ago that allow you to mount 5" Autometer gauges in the factory holes if you need them....although I assume you're going to be running a dash more in line with the vintage race cars. Keep up the great work!

[Neil B]

Neil, this continues to be my favorite build going....very curious to see what you end up doing with the dash....Ive got a spare set of those 1/16 inch steel CNC'd brackets that were bumping around the Corvette forum a few years ago that allow you to mount 5" Autometer gauges in the factory holes if you need them....although I assume you're going to be running a dash more in line with the vintage race cars. Keep up the great work!

Thank you so much! My dash will be similar to the Garner AIR L88 car (with stock dash panels and center shift console) with some modern twists thrown in. I'm using Speed Hut gauges and New Vintage toggle switches.

http://www.chevyhardcore.com/files/2011/01/1968Corvette_03_700.jpg

http://corvettemike.com/images/showroom/1968_Chevrolet_CorvetteL88RaceCar_2303_5.jpg

[Neil B]

Here is a mockup of the center gauge cluster.

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20160211_101500_zpsyro5nusp.jpeg

[Centerforce]

It's good to see some more updates on this! That gauge cluster setup is looking excellent!

[Flash68]

Killin it Neil!

[badbu68]

Like the look of the raw casting valve covers, always a fan of vintage looking modern tech.

[vstol]

Keep it going Neil

[Neil B]

I dropped it off the jackstands today for the first time in over 3 months. I was able to run it around the block for a basic systems check. She ran good!

Here is a link to the startup video...

iJtPhybPcYw

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20161228_135351_zpsxr77pzeq.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20161228_135334_zpsffvsyuq2.jpeg

[Neil B]

I finished the rear body harness and got the taillights and turn signals working. Sooooo... for the first time since I bought the car, she left the neighborhood under her own power today! I still have plenty to do, but it sure felt good to drive it.

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20170102_105025_zpsfy66a1ad.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20170105_145043_zps67j85z0a.jpeg

[FLYNAVY53]

Thanks for the update Neil!....She's coming a long nicely....pretty much done....so you ready to sell and move on to the next project yet? :welcome3:

[JohnC]

Very nice!!! I can't wait to see her fully dressed....with rear wheels, etc.

Awesome job, Neil!

[Neil B]

Thanks for the update Neil!....She's coming a long nicely....pretty much done....so you ready to sell and move on to the next project yet? :welcome3:

LOL. Still lots to do. I put about 3 miles on it today.

[Neil B]

Very nice!!! I can't wait to see her fully dressed....with rear wheels, etc.

Awesome job, Neil!

Thanks! Still getting the rear suspension dialed in. She'll be sitting on 345's soon.

[Neil B]

Since I'll be running Hoosiers, today's art project was to add some paint protection film to the leading edge of the flares to reduce stone chip damage. Since nobody makes a PPF kit for a flared C3 Corvette, I had to create the template and hand cut the film. I started by using contact paper to create the right shape on the car. Then, I transferred the shape from the contact paper to the PPF. After cutting the PPF to shape, it went on the car fairly easy. I think it turned out pretty good. You can barely see the film line in the last photo.

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20170201_150933_zpsw9ax6w0u.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20170201_153319_zpspmfk4mur.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20170201_161124_zpswudrfdbg.jpeg

[WSSix]

Nice and smart! I'll have to remember this for the future. My flares are chipped up badly.

[syborg tt]

Nice and smart! I'll have to remember this for the future. My flares are chipped up badly.

Agreed 100% as I am planning on doing this to the nose of the 70

[Neil B]

Today was a perfect day outside, so I finished up a rough alignment and Hoosier'd up! Here is her first 'real' drive. I got about an hour of run time on it. The car will be going back to Tom Argue this week for a few little things while I work on interior prep items back at home.

First drive:

https://youtu.be/eiUklXxKpgk

Some pics:

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20170205_134936_zpsfv2mtqbw.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20170205_134918_zps8vgsv0mc.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20170205_135009_zps7hvlimyn.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20170205_170142_zpsovz3zw9x.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20170205_170223_zpsaoxlfqen.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20170205_170232_zpsznyxfcws.jpeg

[Jay Hilliard]

Awesome build! Looking forward to seeing interior pics.

[Neil B]

The shakedown continues. After a few good heat cycles and nut/bolt checks, I made the 20 mile trek over the bay bridge to Tom Argue's for a few items. The car ran nice and cool and is a real hoot to drive. No real issues in traffic or on the way except the clutch master started weeping.

Fne927fVzs4

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20170214_113843_zpsu3hzav12.jpeg

[JohnJ@RideTech]

I'm still chipping away at it. I got the steering column rebuilt, the engine plumbing finished, the Ridetech steering brace installed, the engine wiring harness completed and the dash harness roughed in. I'm using an AAW Highway 15 kit for the wiring. When I get back from SEMA, I'm going put the column back in it and then fire the engine, check vitals and do a rough tune. Then, I will tidy up the dash harness and wire the rear lights.

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20161031_115850_zpswyla70xn.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20161030_193323_zpsielmlqbe.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20161030_193455_zpshqohmjsy.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20161015_185942_zpspglumciu.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20161031_121840_zps9sfrj0ks.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20161031_121916_zpsnsp82yg7.jpeg

I like that steering box reinforcement! Keep up the good work, this car is coming along great!

[WSSix]

Coming along nicely, Neil. Your brake line looks awfully close to the headers in a couple pictures. Is it? Keep up the good work!

[Neil B]

I like that steering box reinforcement! Keep up the good work, this car is coming along great!

Thanks! Yes, the Ridetech steering box brace bolted right on. The car is pretty twitchy with the Borgeson box, have you guys encountered that?

[Neil B]

Coming along nicely, Neil. Your brake line looks awfully close to the headers in a couple pictures. Is it? Keep up the good work!

Thanks! The brake line isn't as close as it looks in the pics. The power steering fluid is getting hotter than I'd like though.

[JohnJ@RideTech]

Thanks! Yes, the Ridetech steering box brace bolted right on. The car is pretty twitchy with the Borgeson box, have you guys encountered that?

I know that it makes the car pretty responsive. Do you like the way it steers?

[Neil B]

I know that it makes the car pretty responsive. Do you like the way it steers?

It's way better than stock, but I'd like to calm it down a little. Adding caster helped a bunch.

[Neil B]

The debugging continues and I've started on the interior finish items. March is always a super busy month in Florida so not much time to work on the car. However, I fit the new Speed Hut gauges, re-colored the bezels and lower panel, pre-wired the gauges, and installed the upper dash. Next up is the center gauge/switch panel and console.

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20170209_222317_zpscs4ampny.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20170216_171331_zpsbszopzhy.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20170212_151704_zps3hqnngjz.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20170308_211443_zps9jculpnd.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20170314_180805_zps6g28hoop.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20170324_115707_zpsqdcvr8so.jpeg

[NAPA 68]

I really like those gauges. They have a stock feel to them.

Love the build!

Tim

[waynieZ]

Gauges look nice.

[vstol]

Looks good Neal

[Neil B]

I was able to finish the under-dash wiring and button up the dash this week. The dash pad and shift console are new repros but I was able to save the driver and passenger lower dash pads and original center gauge cluster. I kept the wiring race car simple and located all of my power and grounds under the passenger dash pad for ease of serviceability.

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20170414_105546_zpsenanfbmq.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20170414_105442_zpsquuohzgp.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20170414_110007_zpsxlconesb.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20170413_191853_zpsrthvqooi.jpeg

[Neil B]

Love it or hate it, here is my swank race car interior that I completed this past weekend. I tried my best to retain a vintage vibe while using modern gauges. I even put a USB port in it. But.... no carpet, no insulation, no heat, no defrost, no AC, no headliner, no power anything... Perfect! : )

Next up is redoing my power steering lines and reservoir to eliminate fluid aeration. Then I will align the side glass and install the door panels and custom sill plates.

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20170501_121418_zpswtwojs2o.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20170501_121850_zpsg8aut4qz.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20170501_121510_zpszj5b1npz.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20170501_121702_zpszrn0nbr2.jpeg

[Flash68]

Frickin love it Neil. :_party:

[vstol]

Neil looks good! I see a set of Naval Wings, I flew A4M and Harriers for the Corps. Retired after 27 years.

[Neil B]

Neil looks good! I see a set of Naval Wings, I flew A4M and Harriers for the Corps. Retired after 27 years.

Those are my Dad's Wings. He was a career Navy man. We shared a common interest in cars, so it seemed appropriate. These projects consume an enormous amount of time and become very personal, so it's cool to be able to relate a project to the important things in life.

[Neil B]

So here is attempt #4 at my power steering system. I chose a new reservoir from a company called Chase Bays who specializes in fluid transfer products for BMW and other import cars. They were the only company that made a reservoir with the baffling and size/dimensions I was looking for. It's a nice piece. This reservoir allowed me to get the suction line further away from the control arm and also place the steering box return line on the bottom of the reservoir. I also replaced the stainless PFTE pressure line with a rubber/swedged fitting setup. I had high hopes. The foaming/aeration problem seems better, but the fluid is still getting way too hot and the pump starts to groan when the engine comes up to temp. With this being a track car, I just bit the bullet and ordered a Derale stacked plate fluid cooler which I am going to mount in front of the radiator. This should add significant fluid volume in addition to the cooling unit itself.

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20170503_124154_zpsmgrwhdzp.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20170503_123533_zpshnqfvfpc.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20170503_135750_zpspzrq9vcw.jpeg

[vstol]

looking good

[Dr G]

So here is attempt #4 at my power steering system. I had high hopes. The foaming/aeration problem seems better, but the fluid is still getting way too hot and the pump starts to groan when the engine comes up to temp.

There is something I learned a while back regarding power steering reservoirs. The return line must enter the reservoir well below the top end of the the fluid level.

I learned this after I implemented a very expensive fluid reservoir, with an incorporated filter, but it had the return line coming in at the very top of the reservoir. And my system groaned like crazy. No amount of bleeding would improve it.

I finally called KRC, who's power steering pump I am using and told them which reservoir I was using and the problem I was having. They told me I should try a different reservoir with the return line coming in around mid-height on the tank. I tried it and voila, no more groaning.

Just a thought...

[Neil B]

There is something I learned a while back regarding power steering reservoirs. The return line must enter the reservoir well below the top end of the the fluid level.

I learned this after I implemented a very expensive fluid reservoir, with an incorporated filter, but it had the return line coming in at the very top of the reservoir. And my system groaned like crazy. No amount of bleeding would improve it.

I finally called KRC, who's power steering pump I am using and told them which reservoir I was using and the problem I was having. They told me I should try a different reservoir with the return line coming in around mid-height on the tank. I tried it and voila, no more groaning.

Just a thought...

Thanks for the feedback. My original setup was the KRC reservoir with the return on the side and a non-vented cap. The groaning was the worst with that config. Adding a vented cap helped a bit. I swapped the KRC reservoir for the Chase Bays design which has the return on the bottom and the dual internal baffle design. The aeration has been reduced but the groan is still there and the fluid is still really hot. I think my headers are heat soaking the steering box because the groan is only there after a few minutes of driving when the motor is up to temp.

[Dr G]

The aeration has been reduced but the groan is still there and the fluid is still really hot. I think my headers are heat soaking the steering box because the groan is only there after a few minutes of driving when the motor is up to temp.
You could be right, a cooler might be a good thing. I did have a cooler installed both with and without the groaning in my system. I did not personally seem to notice any correlation with heat. So my problem may have been different. Here are some pics of my system:
http://www.pro-touring.com/threads/115767-1956-F100-(Project-Fat-Max)-Build-Thread/page2

[grendel]

How are you bleeding the system?

[Neil B]

How are you bleeding the system?

I am slowing refilling the reservoir. Then I am slowly turning the wheels lock to lock about 25 times with engine off. Then I start the engine for about 2 seconds and shut it off. Top off the reservoir as needed. Then I start the engine and slowly cycle the steering lock to lock. This is all with wheels off the ground. The reservoir is the highest point in the system. This process has always worked fine on other cars. Thanks.

[grendel]

I am slowing refilling the reservoir. Then I am slowly turning the wheels lock to lock about 25 times with engine off. Then I start the engine for about 2 seconds and shut it off. Top off the reservoir as needed. Then I start the engine and slowly cycle the steering lock to lock. This is all with wheels off the ground. The reservoir is the highest point in the system. This process has always worked fine on other cars. Thanks.

Yep, that's how I do it... sounds odd that you still have air in the system to allow the cavitation. I agree with you that you're heating the system... can you wrap the headers?

I use a vented reservoir on everything... both lines are well below the fluid line, mounted as high as I can get it, with as straight a line into the pump as I can get... Bleed the way you do, and almost never have issues.

[Juicypop]

What a awesome build!

[Neil B]

You could be right, a cooler might be a good thing. I did have a cooler installed both with and without the groaning in my system. I did not personally seem to notice any correlation with heat. So my problem may have been different. Here are some pics of my system:
http://www.pro-touring.com/threads/115767-1956-F100-(Project-Fat-Max)-Build-Thread/page2

Wow, your truck is killer! Thanks for the tips. I got my PS cooler bracket fabbed up tonight.

[Neil B]

What a awesome build!

Thank you!

[Neil B]

I think I've finally got my power steering woes resolved. I started by taking a baseline temp reading. On jackstands, I brought the car up to temp and cycled the steering with no load. As the engine warmed up, I noticed the steering pump just starting to groan at about 150 degrees. Hot, but not THAT hot. I brought the car fully up to temp until the radiator fans kicked on at 180 degrees. I took another steering fluid temp reading and the fluid was 167 degrees. The pump was groaning with no load when I cycled the steering.

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20170511_181326_zpsjl0kzlvu.jpeg

I came to the conclusion that the fluid temp was not the culprit for the groaning because the fluid was simply not hot enough. However, I felt the temps were too high for a no load test (especially since I will be tracking the car). So, I went ahead and bought a cooler. I went with a 13x5" stacked plate style cooler and made a bracket out of 3/16" 6061 aluminum.

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20170510_171447_zpsdzqmr9sd.jpeg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20170512_175220_zpsbx6r3bll.jpeg

I used the nylon braided hose with AN hose fittings for the low pressure cooler lines. I love the nylon hose. It is so easy to use and doesn't mar up paint like the stainless braided hose. Here is the final config with the Chase Bays baffled reservoir.

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20170512_175144_zpscdjrtqdu.jpeg

Since I didn't think the temps were causing the groan, I swapped fluids from the Royal Purple synthetic to good old GM power steering fluid. I ran the same test again and the peak temp was only 118 degrees. That's a 50 degree difference with no load on the system! The pump is now also whisper quiet.

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20170512_174740_zps6iwtg0dt.jpeg

[Neil B]

I took my wife out today to put the first mile on the odometer. She took a couple videos...

Warm up/first mile:

https://youtu.be/3GL3l_42O0M

A little throttle:

https://youtu.be/KIt4_nGcDuU

Run through the gears:

https://youtu.be/18CMZxgTp8s

[Neil B]

I got the door panels installed. I went with stock-style C3 standard trim panels, but I like how it works with the rest of the interior. I think I will probably end up powder coating the inside door handles all black or restore them to black/chrome.

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20170519_163516_zps8n1sknmd.jpg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20170519_163426_zpsqca6q0mn.jpg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20170519_163756_zps6pgnrlvo.jpg

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20170519_163820_zpsgfzjxrer.jpg

[Neil B]

I went with some buddies to a couple of Cars and Coffee events this morning, so I guess it's officially a car at this point!

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20170520_094002_zpsxjrmaovi.jpg

[fleetus macmullitz]

Such a cool build. :thumbsup:

Enjoying the pics/vids Neil...look forward to more as well.

[carbuff]

Love this build! I always liked this body style. One question for you:

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t270/NeilB_photos/Mobile%20Uploads/20170519_163820_zpsgfzjxrer.jpg

Are you doing anything to project your head from that rollbar? Those low seats don't offer much protection in case of a collision?

[Neil B]

Love this build! I always liked this body style. One question for you:



Are you doing anything to project your head from that rollbar? Those low seats don't offer much protection in case of a collision?

Yes, I will be fabbing headrests.

[tacovini]

It's been a while since I've been on forums (maybe since CornerCarvers?). Anyway, it looks like Neil B last posted about his Corvette 5 years ago. Unfortunately Neil succumbed to Cancer early this year. He was a long standing friend, team mate and buddy since the early 90's we got into road racing together...met our wives together and grew up building cool cars. His widow asked if I would be interested in Neil's build. While I'm a Ford guy, I couldn't turn down this offer. I will be it's caretaker and provide project updates here. Will use this thread to research what's been done to the car, because it just landed in Texas. RIP Neil...we'll take good care of her.

[tacovini]

Race in Peace Neil! ....March 11,2022

[fleetus macmullitz]

Race in Peace Neil! ....March 11,2022

Thank you for letting us know about Neil.

Prayers for his family…

[WSSix]

Very sorry to hear about the loss of your friend. Welcome to the forums and thank you for updating us.

[Gmachine1911]

Yes, very sorry indeed. No doubt Neil would approve of you keeping a part of his legacy alive and on the track! Thanks for keeping the thread going as well.

[tacovini]

I’m really digging this car.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20221124/9b74f49968c45dd82ea9eeee4dcc0d84.jpg


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