Chevelle 2.0 [Archive] - Lateral-g Forums

Yelcamino

01-13-2018, 05:03 PM

Since Photobucket kinda messed up my original Chevelle 2.0 thread (http://lateral-g.net/forums/showthread.php4?t=54262), I decided to just start fresh with a new one. So here goes Chevelle 2.0 again, AKA, The Blue Car.

The plan is to make this version a more dedicated track car along with some autox. The first step is to update the chassis and I decided to build my own (more or less) because my budget doesn't allow an aftermarket chassis.

This has been going on for some time so there will be an overload of pictures with or without comments just to get caught up.

As a side note, this is the first chassis I’ve built. You may see some things that don’t make sense to you or it may seem like I’m doing things the hard way, and I probably am! I’m learning as I go and ask for help when I need it.

This is the donor '66 chassis I started with:

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4747/38777317985_9aee213c68_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/225BTE2)00001 (https://flic.kr/p/225BTE2) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

The first thing I did was to strip it down to the bare frame.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4608/25802885908_c38db7461b_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Fj7x2f)00006 (https://flic.kr/p/Fj7x2f) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Next I got it sandblasted.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4718/25802885208_b0a59a3e89_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Fj7wPb)00007 (https://flic.kr/p/Fj7wPb) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Then I sprayed some primer on the areas that I was going to keep.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4743/25802884568_6b905c41ec_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Fj7wC9)00008 (https://flic.kr/p/Fj7wC9) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Once I got the frame mounted on the frame table, I installed all of the suspension from my car on to the new frame. That way I could locate the front and rear axle center lines. Once I cut the front and rear sections off the frame, I needed to know where to put the new stuff.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4661/25802884188_9c76eea6b7_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Fj7wvA)00009 (https://flic.kr/p/Fj7wvA) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4649/25802883378_05a8050f3b_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Fj7wgC)00010 (https://flic.kr/p/Fj7wgC) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Speaking of new stuff, back when I worked at Ridetech, I bought a front clip from Scott Mock that uses C5 components.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4700/27896189789_4a01648899_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6gkt)00012 (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6gkt) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

With the suspension mounted I was able to locate the front axle center line. To ensure I put the new spindles in the same place, I made a pair of stands that I could bolt to the hubs and table to keep things from moving around.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4768/39643951102_29c528d7fb_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23pcBuj)00013 (https://flic.kr/p/23pcBuj) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4757/39643950452_b3f0654f18_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23pcBi7)00014 (https://flic.kr/p/23pcBi7) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

After I felt confident about the center line, I placed the new front clip on the frame to get an idea of where I needed to cut.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4621/39643949962_4ce7403f7d_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23pcB9E)00015 (https://flic.kr/p/23pcB9E) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Instead of cutting off too much, I chose to be a little more cautious. I cut the main cross member off…

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4696/39643949302_0c34995ccd_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23pcAXh)00016 (https://flic.kr/p/23pcAXh) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

And then I followed that up with more precision cuts.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4742/39643948722_1056d06cb5_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23pcAMh)00017 (https://flic.kr/p/23pcAMh) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Yelcamino

01-13-2018, 05:04 PM

After I was happy with the cuts, I lowered the new clip in place to see how it fit.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4748/39643946632_0e9bb3b389_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23pcAaf)00018 (https://flic.kr/p/23pcAaf) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4663/39643945582_3218feb50f_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23pczR9)00019 (https://flic.kr/p/23pczR9) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4714/39643944592_6eb97b6380_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23pczy5)00020 (https://flic.kr/p/23pczy5) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

After I got it in place and the fit seemed good, I needed to fine tune the location. I did that with string, bubble levels, and spacers.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4770/39643943752_e7f605ef86_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23pcziA)00021 (https://flic.kr/p/23pcziA) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4607/39643942892_45425b1cb7_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23pcz3L)00022 (https://flic.kr/p/23pcz3L) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4660/39643941972_d9ecdd7ec4_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23pcyLU)00023 (https://flic.kr/p/23pcyLU) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

After I was happy with its location, I tacked it in place and started figuring out how to permanently attach the clip to the side rails.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4654/39643941042_6cbfa218d2_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23pcyuS)00024 (https://flic.kr/p/23pcyuS) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4619/39643940282_28cbbda541_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23pcygL)00025 (https://flic.kr/p/23pcygL) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4708/39643939642_e062909b9f_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23pcy5J)00026 (https://flic.kr/p/23pcy5J) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

With that out of the way, I made a wheel fitment tool because I’m too cheap to buy one!

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4630/39643938572_8d7da6fac4_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23pcxLh)00027 (https://flic.kr/p/23pcxLh) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

With my new tool, I was able to mount a 315/30-18 tire and adjust the back space to simulate a wheel to check for clearance around the frame and suspension components.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4712/27896188809_bdcd4a95af_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6g3z)00028 (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6g3z) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4715/38777335395_e43868b0c5_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/225BYQc)00029 (https://flic.kr/p/225BYQc) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Next comes the rear suspension…

Jimbo1367

01-13-2018, 06:08 PM

Its looking like a great start!!! Subscribing.

Che70velle

01-13-2018, 06:52 PM

Herb, I can’t wait to see more. I have to say that I wasn’t aware you no longer are with RideTech. Where have I been?
What drivetrain will this have? 315’s all around....me likey!

GregWeld

01-13-2018, 08:38 PM

Nice Herb!!

214Chevy

01-13-2018, 09:50 PM

Sweet!! That wheel fitment tool is ingenious. I wish that I was half as smart.

Yelcamino

01-14-2018, 02:36 AM

Its looking like a great start!!! Subscribing.

Thanks!

Yelcamino

01-14-2018, 02:44 AM

Herb, I can’t wait to see more. I have to say that I wasn’t aware you no longer are with RideTech. Where have I been?
What drivetrain will this have? 315’s all around....me likey!

Thanks Scott! Yeah, I left Ridetech in June 2016 so I could use my GI Bill before it expired. Time flies and I didn't want to wake up one day and it be too late. After leaving Ridetech I enrolled in a two year welding program at Vincennes University. It's a decent program but unfortunately it's geared more towards pipe and structural welding, which is a lot different than motorsports welding.

The engine is an all aluminum 509" big Chevy. The trans is still a question and the rear is a full floater 9".

Front will be 18x11 w/ 315s and the rear will be 18x12 w/ 335s.

Yelcamino

01-14-2018, 02:44 AM

Nice Herb!!

Thanks Greg! How have you been doing?

Yelcamino

01-14-2018, 02:45 AM

Sweet!! That wheel fitment tool is ingenious. I wish that I was half as smart.

Thanks! I'm not sure if the tool idea was ingenious but it did save me some money!

Yelcamino

01-14-2018, 04:05 AM

As promised, it’s time for the rear suspension. When I started this project my original plan was to get the rear frame kit from ABC Performance so I could stuff 335s out back. After thinking about it for a while I decided that if I’m going to go through all this work I wanted to try something different. During my dealings with Ron Sutton while I was at Ridetech, I learned about his suspension kits, specifically his offset three-link. After some discussion and numerous emails, a big ol brown box showed up on my door step with this stuff in it…

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4669/39643937922_c813f06a38_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23pcxz5)10015 (https://flic.kr/p/23pcxz5) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

After having cut the front end apart with a 4 ½” grinder, I broke down and bought this Eastwood plasma cutter. It was relatively cheap, has a better warranty than the big names, and it works awesome! So far it has been able to cut ¼” plate without the slightest hiccup. Highly recommended if you’re in the market for a plasma cutter.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4749/39643936982_dc2cfbf791_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23pcxhS)10020 (https://flic.kr/p/23pcxhS) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

With the old 9” in place, I located the stock rear axle centerline using a good old fashioned plumb bob. (I added the red line to show the plane I was using)

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4763/38777359205_3007764f47_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/225C6UH)00012.1 (https://flic.kr/p/225C6UH) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

With the centerline marked, I removed all the rear suspension and started measuring for the new parts.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4670/39643936192_4f750a4205_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23pcx4f)10027 (https://flic.kr/p/23pcx4f) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Wanting to keep the body mount, I was able to do some fancy cutting thanks to the plasma!

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4622/38965701644_8140648317_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngpy9)10028 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngpy9) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4743/38965701244_932c6f55fd_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngprf)10029 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngprf) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

With all my cuts made, the engine hoist made quick work of getting the old stuff out of the way.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4750/38965700874_725ab9cb8e_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngpjS)10030 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngpjS) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

The first thing I did was get the new crossmember tacked in place so I could start fitting the new rear frame rails. After spending too much time trying to get these rails in the proper position…

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4743/39643932182_2d966e9428_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23pcvS7)10031 (https://flic.kr/p/23pcvS7) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

…I got in contact with Ron and he sent me a new set of rails that were a better fit for me. He’ll probably chime in with more details, but I think these are now the standard rails in his rear kits. A couple of cool features is the holes for the watts link crossmember and sway bar tube are already in place, and there’s a line cut to locate the axle center line.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4616/38965699964_182e558b90_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngp4b)10032 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngp4b) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4763/24813753397_e329a37c1f_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/DNGYor)10033.1 (https://flic.kr/p/DNGYor) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

The next step was getting the new rear end housing in place so I could locate the suspension brackets.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4628/38965699094_e98bc188b7_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngoNb)10033 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngoNb) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Here the watts link crossmember and sway bar tube are tacked in.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4625/38965698644_2f4763d371_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngoEq)10034 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngoEq) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Lower shock mounts tacked in.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4720/38965698054_dcb47e032a_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngouf)10035 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngouf) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Third link tacked in.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4723/38965697704_fbaf62e147_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngood)10036 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngood) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4763/38965697214_6a2c4300c9_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngoeL)10037 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngoeL) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Yelcamino

01-14-2018, 04:09 AM

Driver side watts bracket tacked on.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4765/38965696614_9e6721be6b_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngo4q)10038 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngo4q) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

It’s slowly starting to take shape. You can see in this photo the back brace is tacked to the rear housing. Down the road you’ll see I had to modify it to clear the coil overs.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4662/38965696084_1c7634cef6_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngnUh)10039 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngnUh) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

From this angle you can see there’s about ½” of space between the back of the rear end housing and the watts a-frame.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4753/38965695394_9ef261c02f_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngnGo)10040 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngnGo) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

I made these gussets to help reinforce the joint between the rear frame rails and crossmember.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4621/38965694864_80872e4c3c_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngnxf)10041.1 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngnxf) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4619/38965694604_99885db293_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngnsL)10041.2 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngnsL) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4619/27896217189_90271567cb_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6ptT)10042 (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6ptT) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

At this point just about everything is welded in permanently except for the housing brackets.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4756/27896216539_44b140d7c9_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6phF)10043 (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6phF) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4765/27896215739_d0c6ef6818_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6p3T)10044 (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6p3T) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

I added this rear crossmember which I cut from the original frame rails that Ron sent me.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4651/27896215119_f5a77fd41e_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6oSc)10045 (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6oSc) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

With all that done, it was time to connect the original frame horns to the new rails. They didn’t turn out quite as pretty as I imagined them, but they’re pretty sturdy and put both bumpers where they should be.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4612/39643921522_04d583b051_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23pcsGj)10046.1 (https://flic.kr/p/23pcsGj) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4746/39643920952_c0d668bdf3_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23pcswu)10046.2 (https://flic.kr/p/23pcswu) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4653/27896212649_3618cc9f0d_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6o8B)10046.3 (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6o8B) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

I tried to make both sides as similar as possible.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4699/27896212049_7d0b888d97_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6nXg)10046.4 (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6nXg) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4607/27896211569_75da32cb5d_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6nNZ)10046.5 (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6nNZ) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

The bumper fits nice and doesn’t bounce around!

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4626/38965680414_218a4325d6_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngif7)10054 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngif7) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Yelcamino

01-14-2018, 04:12 AM

Here’s the front…

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4768/38965688834_6738372544_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngkKh)10046.6 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngkKh) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4713/38965688064_4ebf3ec7ce_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngkw1)10046.7 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngkw1) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4705/38965687434_57ce49f1a4_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngkk9)10046.8 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngkk9) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4745/38965686734_9f94d8904d_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngk85)10046.9 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngk85) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

And then I made a pair of boxing plates and welded them in. (For some reason this is the only picture I took)

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4668/38965685774_4c20f8514c_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngjQw)10046.91 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngjQw) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

The next big hurdle was permanently welding the suspension brackets to the rear end housing.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4770/38965685234_da9487f9b9_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngjFd)10046 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngjFd) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Here you can see how I shortened the back brace to clear the coil overs.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4605/38965683824_f371bde122_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngjfU)10047 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngjfU) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4628/38965683224_0f3c410dd8_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngj5y)10048 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngj5y) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

With all the brackets welded on, I made a trip to Moser and had them weld on the Baer floater ends and cut axles for me.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4661/38965682574_eae5e8d4d2_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngiTm)10049 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngiTm) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4675/38965681094_be34d93450_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngirQ)10053 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngirQ) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4767/38965682024_eb4e54935a_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngiHS)10050 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngiHS) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

I also picked up some gear oil and axle seals.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4612/38777334045_5e2a63b793_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/225BYqV)10051 (https://flic.kr/p/225BYqV) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

And some Redline grease for the axle bearings.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4665/38965681704_462de6e346_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngiCm)10052 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngiCm) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

With everything welded, I put the housing back in to see how it all fits.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4703/38965679664_43057f60b2_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22ngi2b)10055 (https://flic.kr/p/22ngi2b) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Yelcamino

01-14-2018, 04:14 AM

Here’s the Ridetech coil over with a spring in place.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4695/38965678984_0a43a31435_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22nghPs)10056.1 (https://flic.kr/p/22nghPs) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4605/38965678584_633d2ca074_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22nghGy)10056.2 (https://flic.kr/p/22nghGy) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Plenty of room!

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4604/38965677194_f676060155_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22nghhA)10056 (https://flic.kr/p/22nghhA) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

With the rear wheels and tires in place, the track width is 72” just like it was before. With these little 10” wide wheels and 295 tires, there’s 7 ½” between the inner side wall and the frame rail so I have lots of room to fit a 12” wide wheel with 335s!

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4723/38965675874_c8a4387cb8_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22nggTQ)10058 (https://flic.kr/p/22nggTQ) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4717/38965674934_09cc7bb52d_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22nggBC)10059.1 (https://flic.kr/p/22nggBC) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Yelcamino

01-14-2018, 04:54 AM

A while back I came across a set of Jake’s Rod Shop C6 tubular arms being sold by Jon (Jtomas801) here on Lateral-G. The price was right and I liked the way the lower arm was designed for a coil over vs the factory arm which requires a weak (IMO) trunnion to mount a coil over.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4615/38777333635_b18df8cf0e_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/225BYiR)10059 (https://flic.kr/p/225BYiR) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4657/38777332825_bde05bd837_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/225BY4T)10060 (https://flic.kr/p/225BY4T) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4715/38777331245_f27ef93310_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/225BXAD)10061 (https://flic.kr/p/225BXAD) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Here’s the Jake’s Rod Shop arms mounted along with the new Ridetech Track 1 C7 hubs.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4715/39674921421_b30d6a3baa_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23rWkTk)10063 (https://flic.kr/p/23rWkTk) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Now things are starting to get fun! Just to help me visualize things, I put my P-Ayr mock-up engine in place. In this position, it’s about 12” rearward of the stock location. The plan is to get the engine behind the front axle centerline.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4719/38965674084_2a0ab4b596_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22nggmY)10062 (https://flic.kr/p/22nggmY) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4768/39674920571_eb1a51cdc8_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23rWkCF)10064 (https://flic.kr/p/23rWkCF) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

For the most part the front suspension is all in place. I did a quick check of the alignment and I have 5* of caster on both sides, -1.5* of camber on one side and -1.4* of camber on the other. Not too bad as a starting point.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4720/39674920011_607cfe993b_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23rWkt2)10065 (https://flic.kr/p/23rWkt2) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4606/39674919611_b4be41cc3a_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23rWkm8)10066 (https://flic.kr/p/23rWkm8) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

It’s finally starting to look like a real chassis!

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4713/38777330235_b27daf9773_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/225BXie)10067 (https://flic.kr/p/225BXie) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Now you’re all up to date. I still have a few little things I need to get done on the frame but the next big step is test fitting the body. Due to the rear suspension, I’m going to have to cut out some sections of the rear seat area and trunk floor. Before I can do that, I have to get the interior stripped. To get myself motivated, I took the rear wheels off the Z06 and put them on the frame to see how some big meats would fit…

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4740/38777328665_00cb6211d4_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/225BWQa)10072 (https://flic.kr/p/225BWQa) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4614/25802840328_7d02d5b35a_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Fj7ito)10073 (https://flic.kr/p/Fj7ito) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4700/27896192259_854072a663_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6h54)10074 (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6h54) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4768/27896190989_2611d390b1_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6gGa)10075 (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6gGa) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4617/27896193799_f596324e74_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6hwB)10070 (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6hwB) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4699/27896193259_721394ef88_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6hni)10071 (https://flic.kr/p/Jv6hni) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

The Z06 rear wheels are obviously too wide for the front and they have too much backspace. However, they actually turn quite a bit so that tells me 11” wheels (with the proper backspacing) and 315s will fit! They fit great out back but again, due to the offset, they actually narrow the rear track width by 2".

GregWeld

01-14-2018, 07:44 AM

waynieZ

01-14-2018, 08:06 AM

Impressive work Herb, nice job.

Yukon Cornelius

01-14-2018, 12:37 PM

Think you'll have to notch your front crossmember for the pulleys/balancer?

Yelcamino

01-14-2018, 01:03 PM

Well played Sir!!!

Smart choice going with the de-coupled 3 link !! While I haven't driven a car with that setup - my new race car (Sutton Track Warrior) will have that. I'm hoping for some major mechanical grip.

Thanks Greg! I didn't get the de-coupled 3 link, just the offset 3 link. IIRC, Ron said I could always upgrade to the de-coupled version down the road.

Yelcamino

01-14-2018, 01:04 PM

Impressive work Herb, nice job.

Thanks Wayne!

Yelcamino

01-14-2018, 01:06 PM

Think you'll have to notch your front crossmember for the pulleys/balancer?

Most likely no. The engine is sitting lower than it will when it's actually in place.

WSSix

01-14-2018, 05:29 PM

nice work, Herb. Glad to see you're still making progress on the build. Love the Chevelle. As I said in the other thread, it's just got a great mean look to it. Good luck!

Yelcamino

01-15-2018, 01:43 PM

nice work, Herb. Glad to see you're still making progress on the build. Love the Chevelle. As I said in the other thread, it's just got a great mean look to it. Good luck!

Thanks Trey! Progress has been and still is slow but if I keep at it, eventually, it'll be done! :thumbsup:

Jtomas801

01-18-2018, 07:27 PM

Hey, so thats where those a-arms went! lol. Nice work so far Herb, I like how you reused the frame horns front and back, great idea. Keep up the great work!

Thanks,
Jon

Yelcamino

01-19-2018, 08:05 AM

Hey, so thats where those a-arms went! lol. Nice work so far Herb, I like how you reused the frame horns front and back, great idea. Keep up the great work!

Thanks,
Jon

Yep, that's where they went! Thanks!

Yelcamino

02-12-2018, 05:34 PM

Last week I got my freshly ported AFR heads, Holley intake, and custom solid roller cam from Straub Technologies. :ups:

The short block has been together for a while but it consists of a Brodix aluminum block, a Scat lightweight 4340 crank, Scat 4340 6.535" H-beam rods, Diamond pistons with ceramic coating on top and DFL on the skirts. The rod and main bearings are also coated with DFL. ARP main and head studs finish it off.

A couple of pics of these beautiful pistons.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4659/26341319688_e2209afddb_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/G8G9Ch)10083 (https://flic.kr/p/G8G9Ch) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4668/39502462724_cd7a64a653_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23bGrVw)10084 (https://flic.kr/p/23bGrVw) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

The rotating assembly.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4719/40213789361_44190317a3_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24gybxT)10086 (https://flic.kr/p/24gybxT) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

The full short block ready to go.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4621/28434371019_61204a9a86_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/KjDzSc)10085 (https://flic.kr/p/KjDzSc) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

The AFR 305 heads that are now so much more.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4759/40213789081_0a39530079_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24gybt4)10087 (https://flic.kr/p/24gybt4) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4651/40213788621_7a5b330268_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24gybk8)10088 (https://flic.kr/p/24gybk8) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Intake port.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4748/26341320868_6af417ce43_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/G8G9YC)10089 (https://flic.kr/p/G8G9YC) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Exhaust port.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4699/26341320668_a1a12f23a2_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/G8G9Vb)10090 (https://flic.kr/p/G8G9Vb) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

The intake system is this Holley HP EFI.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4602/39502463644_0b269d83e9_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23bGsco)10100 (https://flic.kr/p/23bGsco) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Fortunately I sent the intake along with the heads to be port matched... and the ports were off to one side enough that they required epoxy to bring them back in line.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4753/26341320218_a48fecc1b5_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/G8G9Mq)10094 (https://flic.kr/p/G8G9Mq) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Here is it mocked up. :evil:

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4767/39502465034_07ae5a9d1b_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23bGsBm)10092 (https://flic.kr/p/23bGsBm) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

I'm waiting for a few more parts to arrive and then it's on to actual assembly time.

waynieZ

02-13-2018, 09:21 AM

Very nice Herb !

Tinker

02-13-2018, 10:06 AM

Looks like art to me!
If that doesn't stir some emotions it should be mancard reassessment time.:morepower
Any power estimates?

Yelcamino

02-13-2018, 12:06 PM

Very nice Herb !

Thanks!

Looks like art to me!
If that doesn't stir some emotions it should be mancard reassessment time.:morepower
Any power estimates?

Thanks! The goal was 800 hp at the flywheel and according to the calculations it should exceed it by a bit. So, we'll see what happens.

Che70velle

02-13-2018, 04:45 PM

Herb, if I weren’t so invested in my new 434” ls build, I would build exactly what your doing there. Very nicely done sir!
I have a good friend who completed a Brodix build last year for his 70’ Chevelle. It’s a 632” that makes 904 to the tire on pump gas, and well over a grand on race gas. Drives great on the street, and doesn’t overheat.

Yelcamino

02-13-2018, 06:15 PM

BBC71Nova

02-14-2018, 06:37 AM

Yelcamino

02-17-2018, 06:49 AM

Can't wait to see what this monster does. I've heard of some great numbers out of the 509 and other 4" stroke builds over the years so i'm sure this one won't disappoint either.

Those ti intake valves? nice

You have head flow specs you are willing to share? Scott also had my vintage Dart 320 heads so I'd be curious how they compare to the AFRs. I would've liked to have gone with a newer design as well but given I had these and they were practically new I couldn't see not using them.

I can't wait to see what it does either! I have the head flow specs and "good" ports flow just over 400 cfm and the "bad" ports flow just under 400 cfm. Combined with the solid roller that Straub spec'd, it should move some air!

Yelcamino

03-08-2018, 05:31 AM

Not much too update other than picking up another piece of the puzzle from Bowler Transmissions. Once I get a bellhousing I’ll be able to mock up the engine and trans location.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4773/40647939342_29d8294717_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24VVjdo)T001 (https://flic.kr/p/24VVjdo) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4794/40647938792_d1514c630f_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24VVj3U)T002 (https://flic.kr/p/24VVj3U) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

rixtrix1

03-17-2018, 12:23 AM

Chassis is looking great, Herb. I'm doing a similar set-up on the rear of my '66, but I'm doing mine on a very strict budget and building most of the brackets, etc myself. I'll probably have to enlist Ron's help with the front as it will be a blend of stock mounting points and other GM components. Thanks for sharing all your work pics!

Yelcamino

03-24-2018, 02:56 PM

Yelcamino

03-24-2018, 05:37 PM

Just a few small updates...

On the engine, I got the cam installed, degreed it (ended up 2* retarded), and checked piston to valve clearance (.120" intake, .160" exhaust). I also installed the rocker stands but I'm going to wait until I get closer to starting the engine before I install the rest of the valve train. No sense putting the valve springs under stress while it sits on the stand.

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/819/26125660547_28b382c0dd_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/FNCQFe)10101 (https://flic.kr/p/FNCQFe) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/799/40996329321_72ef14a360_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/25sGUqa)10104 (https://flic.kr/p/25sGUqa) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4771/26125659107_af68b2fab1_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/FNCQfp)10105 (https://flic.kr/p/FNCQfp) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Next was a big step forward on this project... separating the body from the chassis! Now that this is done, there's no going back!

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/795/40287152174_a14a651deb_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24o3bKY)10083 (https://flic.kr/p/24o3bKY) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Yelcamino

03-31-2018, 06:17 AM

I finally got the nerve to start cutting on the Chevelle. There isn’t much original left on this car other than the main body, but I was still fretting cutting it up because of this…

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/819/40239498985_790f9e1b9d_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24iPX8g)10095 (https://flic.kr/p/24iPX8g) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

In the end, my inner Roadkill rose to the occasion and I busted out the sawsall and plasma cutter! The first cut is always the hardest, but once that was done, it was a free for all!

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/806/26263287117_789f4cc64e_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/G1Ndg8)10084 (https://flic.kr/p/G1Ndg8) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

With the trunk cut out, the next step was the first test fit.

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/813/40239503645_0e60d2e024_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24iPYvB)10085 (https://flic.kr/p/24iPYvB) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Of course, once it got close to the frame, I saw a bunch of other stuff in the way, so I cut some more.

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/785/26263286067_233e365eb4_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/G1NcX2)10086 (https://flic.kr/p/G1NcX2) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

After that second round of cuts everything looked good and I started to lower it down until the rockers hit the frame supports (in the red lines, two on each side). Back up it went and off they came.

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/790/26263285517_662be730e3_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/G1NcMx)10087 (https://flic.kr/p/G1NcMx) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

And just like that she fits! As I stared at it, the rear looked really low, so I went out the El Camino and took some measurements to compare. Keep in mind, the chassis is level to the frame table so there’s no rake at all. Compared to the El Camino, the front of the Chevelle is about an inch lower, but the rear is 3-1/2 inches lower! Talk about mind blown! I never realized the El Camino had so much rake to it.

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/899/40423615214_f7d59605aa_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24A6At1)10089 (https://flic.kr/p/24A6At1) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

This view is from the front. Next step is to finish cutting out the floor and tunnel so I can put the new floor supports in.

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/809/26263284527_f68d285410_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/G1Ncut)10090 (https://flic.kr/p/G1Ncut) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Engine compartment looks good. I have to remove the heater box and most of the firewall if I want to move the engine back as far as I originally planned.

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/884/40239500945_b69a828666_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24iPXH4)10091 (https://flic.kr/p/24iPXH4) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

The Ron Sutton 3-link looks happy.

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/799/26263283247_e5ea46b599_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/G1Nc7p)10092 (https://flic.kr/p/G1Nc7p) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Imagine this view with 315’s tucked in there!

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/901/40423616194_9d7e113828_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24A6AKU)10093 (https://flic.kr/p/24A6AKU) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Tinker

03-31-2018, 06:58 AM

I will always have a soft spot for a '66 Chevelle(maybe some day I will also have a garage spot for one) so i can imagine how hard it was to make the first cut, but after seeing it dropped on the frame assured me that it was the right move. Looking nasty!
:superhack:

Yelcamino

03-31-2018, 04:43 PM

1965_SS

04-02-2018, 10:42 AM

SO awesome! Great job :thumbsup: I know all about the SS nerves.......oh well:lol:
:superhack::weld:

Yelcamino

04-02-2018, 05:42 PM

SO awesome! Great job :thumbsup: I know all about the SS nerves.......oh well:lol:
:superhack::weld:

Agreed! It will never be restored so oh well! :thumbsup:

rixtrix1

04-04-2018, 01:17 PM

SSLance

04-04-2018, 02:44 PM

And to think about how many times I walked around my car scratching my head before just cutting the hole for the T56 shifter!!! :D

Looks great Herb!!

Yelcamino

04-04-2018, 06:22 PM

A big thanks, Herb, for this thread! It's really got me motivated to get back into my car's transformation from drag to track, as well as being a visual blueprint for what I have planned for mine. Do you have plans for a body mount behind the rear axle? I moved mine to the inside of the frame rails when I tubbed the car and used the same point for a ballast mount inside the trunk. It appears the rear rails are above the trunk floor. Is this correct? I built my car to match NHRA Super/Stock rules that stipulated there had to be some oe floor between the tubs and the rails below the floor. Looks like I have to rethink that and do a lot more cutting, too! thanks again!

Hi Ric,

You're welcome, glad my posts are helpful!

Yes my rear rails are above the trunk floor. Fortunately I don't have to follow any sanctioning body rules for my build. :hapdance: With that said, once the body is on to stay, I'm probably going to attach what's left of the OE trunk floors to the frame rails using a "L" on each side since there's only about a 1/2" gap. I won't do anything with that though until I get wheel tubs figured out. As for the mount, I think I'm going to fab an outrigger from the frame rail to the mount location.

Hope all that makes sense and answers your question. :cheers:

Yelcamino

04-04-2018, 06:23 PM

And to think about how many times I walked around my car scratching my head before just cutting the hole for the T56 shifter!!! :D

Looks great Herb!!

Any time you take a :superhack: to your car, there has to be a few moments of reflection before you start.

Thanks! :thumbsup:

jy211

04-05-2018, 07:49 AM

looking great!

Yelcamino

04-05-2018, 12:02 PM

looking great!

Thanks!

rixtrix1

04-06-2018, 12:41 PM

Looking at your pic with the Z06 wheels on the rear, it looks like your coilovers would be kinda close if you used that backspacing. How wide were you able to put the lower link mounts? thx!

Yelcamino

04-06-2018, 04:44 PM

Looking at you pic with the Z06 wheels on the rear, it looks like your coilovers would be kinda close if you used that backspacing. How wide were you able to put the lower link mounts? thx!

Maybe this picture shows the space better...

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/811/39475011730_1eb6c6c9cc_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/239gKGw)10096 (https://flic.kr/p/239gKGw) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

I could run this exact wheel/tire size/backspace with plenty of room. The lower mounts are 38" apart, and if I remember correctly, with the Z06 wheels there's 7" between the inside tire sidewall and the frame rail.

Yelcamino

08-26-2018, 06:07 AM

It’s been a busy summer but I finally found some time to work on the Chevelle. Over the last few days I finished cutting out the floor and firewall. :superhack:

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1877/29341085957_c90132eae6_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/LGLJCn)10097 (https://flic.kr/p/LGLJCn) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1880/42469135790_9f4b17e38e_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/27GRqt9)10100 (https://flic.kr/p/27GRqt9) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Then I added in the two 2x2” rails to connect the front and rear chassis sections. :welder: More bracing will be added but this is just to get me started.

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1848/42469135140_d57772b0b8_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/27GRqgW)10101 (https://flic.kr/p/27GRqgW) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1845/42469134340_dbd1a53660_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/27GRq39)10102 (https://flic.kr/p/27GRq39) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Once all that was done I put it on the ground for the first time in about two years! My curiosity was killing me so I scaled it just to see.

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1900/42469133490_36974fb3a5_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/27GRpMu)10103 (https://flic.kr/p/27GRpMu) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Notice the driver side is heavier and the front bias is pretty light, but I’m sure the hood sitting on the roof skewed things a bit. Now that I have a baseline, I’m going to weigh it after each major change, such as the cage, engine & trans, etc. My goal is to not exceed 3400 lbs.

Well here it is…

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1856/29341081937_f6e5c231ce_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/LGLHr4)10104 (https://flic.kr/p/LGLHr4) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

And here they are…

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1876/29341089307_fab2b6c3d7_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/LGLKC8)10105 (https://flic.kr/p/LGLKC8) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Yelcamino

08-26-2018, 05:50 PM

Here are some more pics from today...

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1878/42482248220_44b400bc46_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/27J1Ckw)10109 (https://flic.kr/p/27J1Ckw) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1854/44241729142_8c3baf737f_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2apuqHu)10110 (https://flic.kr/p/2apuqHu) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1894/43572810274_bf502bd206_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/29oo3ry)10107 (https://flic.kr/p/29oo3ry) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1882/29354280947_c780a7408f_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/LHWn3c)10108 (https://flic.kr/p/LHWn3c) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

rixtrix1

08-27-2018, 05:14 PM

It's looking great, Herb. It seems odd that the driver's side is so much heavier. That steering column and wiper motor must be really heavy, lol. Are you fabbing a complete new floor from scratch?

Yelcamino

08-28-2018, 08:50 AM

It's looking great, Herb. It seems odd that the driver's side is so much heavier. That steering column and wiper motor must be really heavy, lol. Are you fabbing a complete new floor from scratch?

Thanks Ric! I didn't level the scales beforehand and the hood is on the roof, so I'm sure that skewed the results. At least I have a place to start so as I add things I can try to keep it balanced.

And yes, I'm building a new floor because I want to run a belly pan and keep everything above the bottom of the frame.

Peter McMahon

08-28-2018, 11:50 AM

Looks great! Would you be able to cut the rear frame off where it is horizontal and re weld it on at factory height so you can keep a stock trunk pan?

WSSix

08-28-2018, 07:05 PM

Nice update, Herb. Keep up the great progress.

1965_SS

08-29-2018, 08:47 AM

:confused59::superhack: Cut that car up! Looks great!

Yelcamino

08-29-2018, 07:01 PM

Looks great! Would you be able to cut the rear frame off where it is horizontal and re weld it on at factory height so you can keep a stock trunk pan?

Thanks! The rear frame rails are where they need to be for the suspension to be located correctly. On top of that, I'm not concerned about a stock trunk pan. This is going to be primarily a track car.

Che70velle

08-29-2018, 07:13 PM

Glad to see your back at it Herb. The car is beautiful.

Peter McMahon

08-29-2018, 08:37 PM

Thanks! The rear frame rails are where they need to be for the suspension to be located correctly. On top of that, I'm not concerned about a stock trunk pan. This is going to be primarily a track car.

Ah, I see. I thought all the pick up points for suspension were forward of the horizontal rails and the rails were only for rear body support and bumper support Either way it’s an awesome car and you got a big set on you chopping out that floor! I would have to be hammered to get the guts to do that! Keep the updates coming

Yelcamino

08-30-2018, 09:05 AM

Glad to see your back at it Herb. The car is beautiful.

Thanks Scott!

rixtrix1

08-30-2018, 10:00 AM

Thanks Ric! I didn't level the scales beforehand and the hood is on the roof, so I'm sure that skewed the results. At least I have a place to start so as I add things I can try to keep it balanced.

And yes, I'm building a new floor because I want to run a belly pan and keep everything above the bottom of the frame.Just remembered, the last time I scaled my car I had shock simulators to set ride height and when I put the shocks in and weighed it again, everything was different.
Strange thing, the ride height was the same! Go figure. Great job!

Sent from my SM-J320V using Tapatalk

GregWeld

08-30-2018, 10:46 AM

You're killin' it again Herb!!

Nice work and will be a great project! Hurry up so I can see it finished!

Yelcamino

08-31-2018, 06:40 PM

Ah, I see. I thought all the pick up points for suspension were forward of the horizontal rails and the rails were only for rear body support and bumper support Either way it’s an awesome car and you got a big set on you chopping out that floor! I would have to be hammered to get the guts to do that! Keep the updates coming

Thanks... and don't tell anybody, but:

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/819/40239498985_790f9e1b9d_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24iPX8g)10095 (https://flic.kr/p/24iPX8g) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Yelcamino

08-31-2018, 06:42 PM

You're killin' it again Herb!!

Nice work and will be a great project! Hurry up so I can see it finished!

Thanks Greg! I'm making some changes to the El Camino this coming week and once that's done I'll be burning the midnight oil on the Chevelle! :superhack: :weld::G-Dub:

Yelcamino

08-31-2018, 06:45 PM

Just remembered, the last time I scaled my car I had shock simulators to set ride height and when I put the shocks in and weighed it again, everything was different.
Strange thing, the ride height was the same! Go figure. Great job!

Sent from my SM-J320V using Tapatalk

I have all-thread with shock eyelets on each corner to simulate ride height, so I'm sure once everything is in place it will be totally different. :cheers:

Yelcamino

09-15-2018, 04:25 AM

In an effort to keep this project moving forward, I set the trans and bellhousing in place.

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1873/42882551240_dba5b0cbf2_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/28kohtJ)10112 (https://flic.kr/p/28kohtJ) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

This enabled me to make sure I had the engine where it needed to be, specifically to be sure the return line for the power steering reservoir cleared the shock mount.

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1896/29755099387_53101e7ea3_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/MkmEoX)10113 (https://flic.kr/p/MkmEoX) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

To help figure out driveline angles, I cut 10-3/8” off of a damaged driveshaft from the El Camino and welded it together for mock up. In case you're wondering, the El Camino and Chevelle used the same length driveshafts, so that means the Chevelle's engine is 10-3/8" back from stock location.

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1891/29755099067_eced24d73b_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/MkmEir)10114 (https://flic.kr/p/MkmEir) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1877/29755098847_3c224b66af_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/MkmEeD)10115 (https://flic.kr/p/MkmEeD) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

With an actual driveshaft in place, I now see the rear hoop needs to be raised… so there’s my next project within a project! :weld:

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1882/29755098597_d4b44da524_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/MkmEak)10116 (https://flic.kr/p/MkmEak) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

WSSix

09-15-2018, 05:37 AM

That's a crazy amount of set back, Herb! Keep up the good work!

waynieZ

09-15-2018, 06:23 PM

It looks good Herb, that setback should make a nice difference.

Yelcamino

09-16-2018, 12:59 PM

That's a crazy amount of set back, Herb! Keep up the good work!

It looks good Herb, that setback should make a nice difference.

Thanks guys! I hope all this work is worth in the end!

Yelcamino

11-14-2018, 10:46 AM

I'm finally back at on the Chevelle. Since my last update a lot of things have been pushing this project on to the back burner. We replaced the gravel driveway with concrete (around 146 yds!), got a new front door on the house, I converted the El Camino over to a Ridetech coilover system with a set of custom built (by me) triple adjustable shocks, and we drove to Vegas to attend SEMA. Over the last few days I was able to get most of the main cage structure tacked in place. I've never installed a cage before and I'm using a kit (from Ron Sutton). I don't have any experience to say whether or not the kit is any good (not that it matters anymore), but I think it will be ok for my use.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4860/45830500672_4df3edde44_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2cPTi95)20181114_114640 (https://flic.kr/p/2cPTi95) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4823/44063511580_6fa9877bc5_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2a8K1QU)20181114_114652 (https://flic.kr/p/2a8K1QU) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Once I'm done with the main cage, the body is coming off and the chassis is going on a rotisserie that I'm borrowing from Tom Farrington. With access to all the tight joints I should be able to weld it much better than in the car. While it's on the rotisserie, I'll also address some areas under the chassis that were hard to get at while it was on the table.

It may not be Vorshlag quality, but I'm trying my best! :weld:

SSLance

11-14-2018, 11:44 AM

Sorry I never got to see you while at SEMA Herb...guess we just never crossed paths. Good to see you back on the Chevelle...good luck finishing up the cage. Looks like a LOT of work...

Yelcamino

11-15-2018, 07:06 AM

Sorry I never got to see you while at SEMA Herb...guess we just never crossed paths. Good to see you back on the Chevelle...good luck finishing up the cage. Looks like a LOT of work...

I'm sure we'll cross paths eventually Lance! I visit friends in Phoenix occasionally...

And yes, the cage is a lot of work especially since there were no instructions or diagrams saying which tube goes where, but I'll make it work!

Yelcamino

03-20-2019, 05:31 PM

In case anyone was wondering, I'm still plugging away on the Chevelle but I've been very lazy with thread updates. Instead of boring you with all the little details, I'll just post the most current stuff...

Here it is on the ground for the first time in a while. I had the Forgelines widened to 18x11 and 18x12. The tires are a used set of 315s and 335s I got from Ridetech. They're good enough to roll around the shop and even for some test drives when the time comes. I have the mock up engine in place mounted to the Quicktime bell and T56. Engine set back looks good too.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7855/47377999342_c98c68b023_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2fbCCzC)20190317_210712 (https://flic.kr/p/2fbCCzC) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7806/46515672175_c4f41dba6e_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dSqYKR)20190318_101809 (https://flic.kr/p/2dSqYKR) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7849/33554820528_7ec8254b69_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/T88e7q)20190318_101754 (https://flic.kr/p/T88e7q) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7927/47378000662_75b28f3257_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2fbCCYo)20190317_210552 (https://flic.kr/p/2fbCCYo) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7822/47378073982_e66cdabf3d_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2fbD1Lw)20190317_210727 (https://flic.kr/p/2fbD1Lw) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

With the help of some friends, I made new steering arms.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7806/33554819188_ceb72a2378_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/T88dHj)20190318_101949 (https://flic.kr/p/T88dHj) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

I've also been busy bending sheetmetal for the interior. Right now it's just screwed together to make sure it all fits.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7823/33554865598_bc9011ab9a_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/T88svu)20190214_190154 (https://flic.kr/p/T88svu) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Finally, I got the fuel cell mounts figured out.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7816/47378035612_90f424e593_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2fbCPmY)20190112_170316 (https://flic.kr/p/2fbCPmY) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7879/33554867738_eb32179ff1_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/T88t9o)20190112_170248 (https://flic.kr/p/T88t9o) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

The next big task will be removing the body again, mounting the chassis on a rotisserie so I can complete all the cage welding and other various things that are currently tacked together.

waynieZ

03-22-2019, 04:58 PM

Nice work Herb.

silvermonte

03-23-2019, 05:10 PM

camcojb

03-23-2019, 07:53 PM

Nice work Herb.

X 1000. :thumbsup:

WSSix

03-24-2019, 06:06 AM

What a beast! Nice work, Herb. Keep it up!

Flash68

03-24-2019, 09:12 AM

Killer Chevelle !

Yelcamino

03-24-2019, 02:36 PM

Nice work Herb.

Thanks!

Yelcamino

03-24-2019, 02:38 PM

Quick question, how are you handling the access to the distributor if you need to take it in or out? Im doing an S10 that has massive engine set back like yours and Im almost considering a LS engine just so I dont have to worry about that.

I'm going with a coil on plug ignition but I will be using a distributor for the cam signal. The cap will be a blank with no rotor so it will be a little shorter. If I have to, I'll make a small access panel that I can remove to get the distributor out when needed.

Yelcamino

03-24-2019, 02:40 PM

X 1000. :thumbsup:

Thanks Jody! :cheers:

Yelcamino

03-24-2019, 02:40 PM

What a beast! Nice work, Herb. Keep it up!

Thanks Trey!

Yelcamino

03-24-2019, 02:41 PM

Killer Chevelle !

Thanks!

Pantera1889

03-25-2019, 06:06 AM

Looking great! Perfect stance!

Ron

mfain

03-25-2019, 09:53 AM

I'm going with a coil on plug ignition but I will be using a distributor for the cam signal. The cap will be a blank with no rotor so it will be a little shorter. If I have to, I'll make a small access panel that I can remove to get the distributor out when needed.

Very nice project! I did the same thing you are doing - coil on plug with a crank trigger, then a Holley EFI distributor for the cam position signal. My distributor is up under the windshield, but with the motor mounted fairly low I can still get the short distributor out. Question for you - who's front motor plate are you using? Does the mount have a rubber "isolator"?

Pappy

68675

Yelcamino

03-25-2019, 05:43 PM

Very nice project! I did the same thing you are doing - coil on plug with a crank trigger, then a Holley EFI distributor for the cam position signal. My distributor is up under the windshield, but with the motor mounted fairly low I can still get the short distributor out. Question for you - who's front motor plate are you using? Does the mount have a rubber "isolator"?

Pappy

68675

Thanks Pappy! That's a nice looking engine you got there!

The motor plates are Competition Engineering (C4007), but I fabbed the 1/4" wall tubing, hard rubber isolators, and inner sleeves.

Yelcamino

03-25-2019, 05:44 PM

Looking great! Perfect stance!

Ron

Thanks Ron!

Yelcamino

06-10-2019, 08:57 AM

It's been a while, so this is where I'm at...

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48037613268_50e9c49145_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gbVjPw)20190606_163319 (https://flic.kr/p/2gbVjPw) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48037611258_e28155c3e2_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gbVjdS)20190607_180422 (https://flic.kr/p/2gbVjdS) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48037570371_d2fc3aefbf_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gbV74V)20190609_183741 (https://flic.kr/p/2gbV74V) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48037568156_bc52a54fe3_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gbV6pJ)20190609_183753 (https://flic.kr/p/2gbV6pJ) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

I've been welding the joints that I can reach. Now with everything removed, I'm putting it on a rotisserie so I can get to all the hard to reach places and get this thing buttoned up!

camcojb

06-10-2019, 09:53 AM

:thumbsup:

mfain

06-10-2019, 11:43 AM

Beautiful work! If I may, I would offer one suggestion for the cage while you are at this stage. I would add a NASA/SCCA-compliant diagonal bar, just in case. The following is from the NASA 2019 rule book.

15.6.7 Diagonal Brace
One (1) diagonal brace should be used in the same plane as the main hoop. The diagonal should be one continuous path; meaning that it must conform to Diagrams 15.6.7a or 15.6.7b. Note- If the installation method from Diagram 15.6.7b is used, the builder should pay close attention to alignment. One end of the diagonal brace shall attach to the corner, or horizontal part of the main hoop above the driver’s head, within twelve (12) inches of the driver’s-side corner. The other end of the diagonal brace shall attach to the mounting plate (or to the main hoop as close to the mounting plate as practically possible) diagonally opposed to the driver’s head (passenger floor).

Pappy

waynieZ

06-10-2019, 08:00 PM

Nice work!

Yelcamino

06-10-2019, 08:05 PM

Yelcamino

06-13-2019, 07:26 PM

The new intake showed up yesterday and I thought you guys might like some engine porn! :hapdance:

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48058897262_6f4c2ff2b0_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gdNpNW)20190613_185419 (https://flic.kr/p/2gdNpNW) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48058897132_a6ddc0f393_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gdNpLG)20190613_185519 (https://flic.kr/p/2gdNpLG) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48058896932_009706d042_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gdNpHf)20190613_185540 (https://flic.kr/p/2gdNpHf) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48058896822_1b6dd7e977_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gdNpFm)20190613_185546 (https://flic.kr/p/2gdNpFm) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48058849403_03f26d2015_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gdNazM)20190613_185626 (https://flic.kr/p/2gdNazM) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

BBC71Nova

06-13-2019, 08:10 PM

Very nice 👍

rixtrix1

06-13-2019, 10:07 PM

Isn't there a satin silver finish to put on that gold iridite oil pan to keep the color scheme the same top to bottom? This is going to have a ton of torque, I'll bet!

Tinker

06-14-2019, 02:50 AM

The new intake showed up yesterday and I thought you guys might like some engine porn! :hapdance:

Ummm, yes! Thank you very much! That is one sweet engine.

GEARBOXGARAGE

06-14-2019, 05:36 AM

Looking Awesome Herb!

Yelcamino

06-14-2019, 03:34 PM

Very nice 👍

Thanks!

Yelcamino

06-14-2019, 03:35 PM

Ummm, yes! Thank you very much! That is one sweet engine.

Thanks!

Yelcamino

06-14-2019, 03:35 PM

Looking Awesome Herb!

Thanks Mike!

Yelcamino

06-14-2019, 03:37 PM

Isn't there a satin silver finish to put on that gold iridite oil pan to keep the color scheme the same top to bottom? This is going to have a ton of torque, I'll bet!

I've painted over gold iridite or cadmium and it never seems to last. I'm not too worried about the look at moment.

Yes it should make some good power! :thumbsup:

rixtrix1

06-14-2019, 03:42 PM

I've painted over gold iridite or cadmium and it never seems to last. I'm not too worried about the look at moment.

Yes it should make some good power! :thumbsup:

Silly sarcasm. It looks great( my pan is gold, too ).

Yelcamino

06-16-2019, 02:51 PM

The chassis is once again upright. I still need to add some more tubes but it's steadily getting closer to paint.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48075611327_b02d348879_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gfh5jt)20190615_183816 (https://flic.kr/p/2gfh5jt) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Here are some close ups of my TIG work. With every joint, the quality improves.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48075544378_32c57c0731_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gfgJqb)20190615_163107 (https://flic.kr/p/2gfgJqb) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48075611422_8d61a0a56f_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gfh5m7)20190611_150955[1] (https://flic.kr/p/2gfh5m7) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48075544728_971c8117e5_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gfgJwd)20190613_184730[1] (https://flic.kr/p/2gfgJwd) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48075544848_e7ff5f8705_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gfgJyh)20190614_174236 (https://flic.kr/p/2gfgJyh) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

And this is my Fupa 12 that works like a charm!

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48075611802_3a14273d61_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gfh5sE)20190615_132508 (https://flic.kr/p/2gfh5sE) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

WSSix

06-22-2019, 03:24 PM

Good job, Herb! I've decided tig will be the next thing I learn. Your work looks nice

Yelcamino

06-23-2019, 08:10 PM

Good job, Herb! I've decided tig will be the next thing I learn. Your work looks nice

Thanks Trey. I know my TIG work is improving, but every time I look at them I see flaws! Practice makes perfect I guess! :weld:

SSLance

06-24-2019, 08:32 AM

Finally got a chance to look at the engine porn pics on something larger than a phone screen... Hubba Hubba!!!

Chassis looks alright too ;)

egoman

06-24-2019, 05:21 PM

Nice thing about TIG is that as you get better you can go back and fix/rerun the beads you don't care for anymore.

Yelcamino

06-27-2019, 06:30 AM

Finally got a chance to look at the engine porn pics on something larger than a phone screen... Hubba Hubba!!!

Chassis looks alright too ;)

Thanks Lance! :thumbsup:

Yelcamino

06-27-2019, 06:31 AM

Nice thing about TIG is that as you get better you can go back and fix/rerun the beads you don't care for anymore.

True and I have "repaired" a few already. :weld:

WSSix

06-29-2019, 04:57 AM

You don't have to grind or cut out the previous tig weld? You can just go back over it and have it melt down the same while adding more filler?

egoman

06-29-2019, 08:35 PM

If you have high spots you can knock them down with a grinder but for the most part you can just rerun the weave and make them look better and be stronger. TIG welding that looks good usually is good. MIG can look good but be MEH...…….

WSSix

06-30-2019, 05:43 AM

I knew that about MIG as I've seen it mentioned and proven before. TIG, I didn't know you could just pass right back over it. I guess it make sense though now that I think about it more. After all, there will be times you have to make a second pass with a larger diameter filler rod to create the correct weld.

Thanks

Yelcamino

07-01-2019, 07:39 PM

With all forms of welding you can do multiple passes, it just depends on the base metal, the type of joint, and design requirements.

Some of my fit-up between the tubes wasn't the greatest (this is my first cage) so I had to do a root pass to fill the gap, then a hot pass and/or cover pass depending on how bad the fit-up was. Once I was done with all the joints, I went back and touched up a few just for appearance.

Naturally, some of the best looking joints will never be seen by anyone but me. Oh well!

egoman

07-02-2019, 06:31 PM

Yelcamino

07-06-2019, 09:06 AM

That's why we need a lot more pictures and updates!

I'll try to get more pics and update more often!

If anyone is interested, I put a lot of stuff on IG... @herblumpp (https://www.instagram.com/herblumpp/) and FB... Rotten Metal Garage & Welding (https://www.facebook.com/rottenmetalgarage/?ref=bookmarks)

Yelcamino

07-15-2019, 01:13 PM

Some more quick updates...

Before I painted everything, I made templates for the belly pans.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48291443666_a4617a9c13_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gzmgKG)B006 (https://flic.kr/p/2gzmgKG) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Then I got busy with some VHT chassis black.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48291443806_8344fca47e_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gzmgN7)B007 (https://flic.kr/p/2gzmgN7) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48291544967_95f2dd7715_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gzmMSg)B008 (https://flic.kr/p/2gzmMSg) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Then I transferred the templates to aluminum and drilled all the holes (around 250). Before I install the pans to stay, I'll countersink the holes so the screws will be flush. I also got started on the Heat Shield Products heat reflective fabric. I still need to finish the dog house and then some, possibly all, of the firewall after the body is on to stay.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48291545182_676c283d8c_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gzmMVY)B005 (https://flic.kr/p/2gzmMVY) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Then I got to do some fun stuff - installing the front suspension! :yeah:

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48291444786_55bf4bdec8_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gzmh61)B003 (https://flic.kr/p/2gzmh61) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48291444521_e341a76f06_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gzmh1r)B004 (https://flic.kr/p/2gzmh1r) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48291545957_e9c2ef0c0d_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gzmNak)B002 (https://flic.kr/p/2gzmNak) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48291445161_785df710a1_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gzmhct)B001 (https://flic.kr/p/2gzmhct) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Tinker

07-15-2019, 03:13 PM

Herb, you probably should have cleaned the cobwebs off the frame before you painted it. :lmao:

Looking, good, you really are at one of the more enjoyable parts of your build (aside from burning the tires off for the first time.)
Keep up the good work.

Yelcamino

07-15-2019, 07:20 PM

rixtrix1

07-16-2019, 08:25 PM

Looks pretty good, cobwebs and all!

Sent from my SM-J320V using Tapatalk

Yelcamino

07-20-2019, 05:43 AM

I installed the rear suspension and got it on the scales. Total weight is 1365 with only 43.52% on the front, not too bad.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48329470347_e41baa9306_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gCHaL8)20190719_174817 (https://flic.kr/p/2gCHaL8) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48329335026_8fa36a5838_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gCGtx1)20190719_173002 (https://flic.kr/p/2gCGtx1) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

As I assembled everything, I weighed each part so I could see where the weight was coming from and also to help when it comes time to balance left/right/front/back. This is what I have so far:

Steering rack - 15lbs
Driver side upper/lower arms, spindle, C7 hub - 31lbs
Passenger side upper/lower arms, spindle, C7 hub - 31lbs
Coilovers (11lbs ea) - 22lbs
Rotors (20lbs ea) - 40lbs
Calipers & pads (8lbs ea) -16lbs
Wheels & tires (48lbs ea) - 96lbs
Front Suspension total - 251lbs

3 links & hardware - 15lbs
Watts links - 9lbs
Rear end housing assembly (no oil or axles) - 220lbs
Rear axles - 20lbs
Calipers & pads (8lbs ea) - 16lbs
Coilovers (11lbs ea) - 22lbs
Wheels & tires (51lbs ea) - 102lbs
Rear Suspension total - 404lbs

Chassis & cage - 710lbs

Total weight - 1365lbs

If you remember, after I first test fit the body to the chassis, I scaled it and it was 1875 lbs. None of the cage components were in it at the time but all the suspension parts were.

It will be interesting to see how much the body will add.

ScotI

07-20-2019, 10:25 AM

It's looking nice! Kind of cool to see it as each 'module' gets assembled w/the next. Digging the 'through tubes' for the brake hose ducting as well.

Yelcamino

08-19-2019, 10:00 AM

It looks like my last post was four weeks ago. Some things have happened since then.

The big mile stone is the body is back on the chassis to stay...

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48576949806_a58da6f027_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2h1zyMm)10134 (https://flic.kr/p/2h1zyMm) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48577104222_eed30c347c_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2h1AmFG)10132 (https://flic.kr/p/2h1AmFG) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48577102147_238ac8ec3b_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2h1Am4V)10133 (https://flic.kr/p/2h1Am4V) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48576950146_420778ee1f_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2h1zyTd)10135 (https://flic.kr/p/2h1zyTd) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Those 315's look absolutely huge on there!

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48577103562_704de9c5ba_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2h1Amuj)10137 (https://flic.kr/p/2h1Amuj) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

And of course, I weighed it.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48576950441_992b46dc8e_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2h1zyYi)10136 (https://flic.kr/p/2h1zyYi) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

So 2129 lbs includes the body, chassis, cage work, suspension, wheels & tires. Before I started the cage if you remember, it weighed 1875 lbs, which means all of the cage components only added 254 lbs. Another interesting thing, the chassis with suspension, wheels & tires, and cage weighed 1365 lbs. That means the body, which includes glass and all door components, but no hood, floor, front/rear fenderwells, or interior, added 764 lbs.

The only other thing I've done since the body went back on is to install the bumpers to help make sure everything is centered properly.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48576951116_bf75640339_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2h1zzaW)10138 (https://flic.kr/p/2h1zzaW) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Yelcamino

08-19-2019, 10:24 AM

While trying to free up some room in the shop, I decided to make an engine test stand using some of the old roll bar I removed from the Chevelle and scrap tubing left over from the new cage. It's not pretty, I just slammed it together and the only money I spent on it ($20) was a set of casters from Harbor Freight. All the other stuff that's bolted to it, I either had sitting on a shelf, or I bought it to go in the Chevelle.

This also gave me an opportunity to see how much the all aluminum big block actually weighs!

Test stand - 98 lbs
Engine on stand (no intake or TB) - 614 lbs

Since I already weighed the bellhousing (30 lbs), clutch assembly 43 lbs), and test stand, I subtracted them from the 614, which put it at 443.

Then I weighed the Hogan intake and Holley throttle body (24 lbs) and now that gives me an engine weight of 467 lbs.

In the pic, the front accessories are in place and where during the weighing. The water pump & pulley (6 lbs), alternator, bracket, bolts, belt (12 lbs), PS pump, bracket, bolts, belt (5 lbs), and motor plates (4 lbs).

If my math is correct, just the engine from oil pan (includes 8 qts of oil) to intake, only weighs 440 lbs! I guess I don't need an LS to save weight! :thumbsup:

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48577404447_719b6da03e_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2h1BTVZ)10142 (https://flic.kr/p/2h1BTVZ) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

I haven't run it yet because I'm still getting all the little pieces like fittings, hoses, etc, in place. Once it's running, I'll post a vid.

payne

08-19-2019, 10:30 AM

Looking good! What's your plan for tin work to cover the offset 3-link? Will you be making setup adjustments from above, or under the car?

SSLance

08-19-2019, 10:52 AM

Nice work Herb!! Getting to the fun stage for sure...

Yelcamino

08-19-2019, 08:14 PM

Looking good! What's your plan for tin work to cover the offset 3-link? Will you be making setup adjustments from above, or under the car?

My plan is to fabricate aluminum sheets from the cage to the original package tray to cover the suspension and seal it off from the interior.

Looking into the trunk, I imagine you will be able to see the top of the rear end housing and upper suspension so I can make basic adjustments without having to get under the car. The wheel wells will be in and some form of trunk floor will be fabbed, but it will look all business.

Yelcamino

08-19-2019, 08:16 PM

Nice work Herb!! Getting to the fun stage for sure...

Yep, this is going to be fun. Once the engine is running, I'll really be motivated to keep moving! :thumbsup:

mfain

08-19-2019, 08:42 PM

Yelcamino

08-20-2019, 01:56 PM

I assume the headers were not included in the motor weight??? What block and bore. I have a Brodix with a 4.6 inch bore - the bigger the bore the lighter the block because the steel liners are thinner. Looks great!

Pappy

Correct, the headers in the picture are not included in the engine weight in my post. However, I did weigh these headers and the pair came in at 35 lbs.

The block is standard deck height, 4.5" bore, 4" stroke, 6.535" rods.

Thanks!

WSSix

08-20-2019, 07:08 PM

You're right, those 315s look amazing on the front. Congrats on getting the body back on the frame.

Loyaltyisking

08-21-2019, 01:20 PM

WOW

Great work!!

Yelcamino

08-21-2019, 06:24 PM

You're right, those 315s look amazing on the front. Congrats on getting the body back on the frame.

Thanks Trey!

jarhead

08-21-2019, 11:43 PM

WOW! Nice Work!

syborg tt

08-22-2019, 05:02 AM

I am blown away by your 2.0 version. Now I’m afraid to show my 2.0 version

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Yelcamino

08-22-2019, 11:40 AM

WOW

Great work!!

Thanks!

Yelcamino

09-10-2019, 06:24 AM

Small update... the engine runs! :evil:

https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/48711423992_42404c21f0_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2hdsMgN)509 Running (https://flic.kr/p/2hdsMgN) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

WSSix

09-14-2019, 07:50 PM

Sounds mean, lol. Congrats!

Yelcamino

09-16-2019, 07:20 AM

Sounds mean, lol. Congrats!

Thanks Trey! :thumbsup:

NOPANTS68

09-16-2019, 09:47 AM

Sounds bitchin. Love the valve covers! lol

Yelcamino

09-16-2019, 11:45 AM

Sounds bitchin. Love the valve covers! lol

Thanks!

Yelcamino

07-12-2020, 06:50 PM

If anyone is interested, I'm still plugging along. I recently just rebuilt the core support to move the radiator closer to the engine, unshroud the core, and provide room for the oil cooler.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/07/50104245688_e3a94945ed_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jkxmCY)20200709_163912 (https://flic.kr/p/2jkxmCY) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

This is where I am in the overall build...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/07/50104244658_0a37391290_b-1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jkxmkd)20200709_184552 (https://flic.kr/p/2jkxmkd) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

I still have a ways to go, but progress is progress!

rixtrix1

07-12-2020, 08:20 PM

Looks good, Herb! Need to keep my daily/autoX s10 healthy so I can get to work on my Malibu. Thanks for continuing the inspiration!

Sent from my SM-J320V using Tapatalk

214Chevy

07-12-2020, 08:34 PM

Looking good!!

ScotI

07-13-2020, 06:52 AM

I follow here & IG so keep updating the progress. These build/info threads help others make decisions.

Yelcamino

07-13-2020, 10:23 AM

I follow here & IG so keep updating the progress. These build/info threads help others make decisions.

I'll do my best! Thanks!

WSSix

07-15-2020, 06:15 PM

Looks awesome!

Yelcamino

07-17-2020, 08:27 AM

I was just notified that my headers are done and on their way! Instead of building my own headers and learning through trial and error, I decided to have GP Headers build them for me. The offer a kit that includes headers flanges, collectors, aluminum hinges, PVC elbows and self tapping screws. After you purchase a stick of PVC straight tubing, you build your PVC mock up headers the way you want them. Once you're done, you ship the mock up headers to GP and they reproduce them in the material of your choice and ship them back.

I opted for stainless construction with merge collectors. They should be here Tuesday. Once I get them in I can finish the exhaust system and be another step closer!

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50123081907_3264796890_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jncTZn)20200716_105103 (https://flic.kr/p/2jncTZn) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50122858876_7fddb9478e_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jnbKG1)20200716_134437 (https://flic.kr/p/2jnbKG1) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50122292103_7cbc5f8473_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jn8Rd4)20200618_150826 (https://flic.kr/p/2jn8Rd4) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

ScotI

07-17-2020, 12:08 PM

I was just notified that my headers are done and on their way! Instead of building my own headers and learning through trial and error, I decided to have GP Headers build them for me. The offer a kit that includes headers flanges, collectors, aluminum hinges, PVC elbows and self tapping screws. After you purchase a stick of PVC straight tubing, you build your PVC mock up headers the way you want them. Once you're done, you ship the mock up headers to GP and they reproduce them in the material of your choice and ship them back.

I opted for stainless construction with merge collectors. They should be here Tuesday. Once I get them in I can finish the exhaust system and be another step closer!
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50122858876_7fddb9478e_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jnbKG1)20200716_134437 (https://flic.kr/p/2jnbKG1) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Never heard of GP Headers before so I checked them out. Nice!
One can appreciate the breakdown of materials costs for someone thinking DIY. I've seen other mock-up kits for headers before. Their custom kit is a great idea.

Yelcamino

07-17-2020, 03:36 PM

Never heard of GP Headers before so I checked them out. Nice!
One can appreciate the breakdown of materials costs for someone thinking DIY. I've seen other mock-up kits for headers before. Their custom kit is a great idea.

A really long time ago I read an article about a company doing this. When I started thinking about it, I couldn't find the company so I resigned myself to building my own. Then two people I know on Facebook posted about their new headers etc, etc. Talk about good timing!

I went to PRI last fall and after talking to the GP guys and I was sold.

It came down to spending close to $1200 plus for a kit, then making numerous mistakes because I've never done it before, ordering more tubing to replace what I tossed in the trash can, make more mistakes because I don't know the tricks and processes, so on and so on. If I were to have done it myself, I probably would have spent just as much money and a lot more time!

ScotI

07-17-2020, 10:16 PM

A really long time ago I read an article about a company doing this. When I started thinking about it, I couldn't find the company so I resigned myself to building my own. Then two people I know on Facebook posted about their new headers etc, etc. Talk about good timing!

I went to PRI last fall and after talking to the GP guys and I was sold.

It came down to spending close to $1200 plus for a kit, then making numerous mistakes because I've never done it before, ordering more tubing to replace what I tossed in the trash can, make more mistakes because I don't know the tricks and processes, so on and so on. If I were to have done it myself, I probably would have spent just as much money and a lot more time!

Exactly & that's why I mentioned an appreciation that they listed an average costs on the materials.

I did my CC duallys exhaust w/stainless excluding the headers. I got my material free from a scrap/demo barrel where I work. I picked through the barrel daily searching for various 90's, 45's, & straight sections in the sizes needed. I had to cut all the elbows but I figured it would be do-able by just cutting on the weld line & keep things as true as possible. But, w/each of those pieces just slightly off/different caused me to go through a BUNCH of extra work trimming/buzzing things for the right fit. That was the only one I did w/used bends LOL. The next one I did using new bends & cut straights..... So much easier & better. The bends weren't free but I get them for much less than NET pricing I looked up & I used food/medical grade stuff.

Yours came out great & the best part is you know they'll clear all your mods.

214Chevy

07-18-2020, 08:11 AM

This will be a great back up plan for me. I bought a set of Ultimate Headers, ceramic coated, with the nice collectors and all...so you know they weren't cheap. Waited several months to get them. Only to final install them and they didn't fit. Of course, this was very frustrating. Nothing out of the ordinary with my engine either. A simple DART LS Next block with 6-bolt heads. On the driver's side, one of the tubes is hitting the head bolt boss. So, I called Jim at Ultimate Headers and I'll give them a chance to make this right first. He said they would. So we'll see...

Yelcamino

07-19-2020, 04:44 AM

Exactly & that's why I mentioned an appreciation that they listed an average costs on the materials.

I did my CC duallys exhaust w/stainless excluding the headers. I got my material free from a scrap/demo barrel where I work. I picked through the barrel daily searching for various 90's, 45's, & straight sections in the sizes needed. I had to cut all the elbows but I figured it would be do-able by just cutting on the weld line & keep things as true as possible. But, w/each of those pieces just slightly off/different caused me to go through a BUNCH of extra work trimming/buzzing things for the right fit. That was the only one I did w/used bends LOL. The next one I did using new bends & cut straights..... So much easier & better. The bends weren't free but I get them for much less than NET pricing I looked up & I used food/medical grade stuff.

Yours came out great & the best part is you know they'll clear all your mods.

I really really wanted to build my own but for once, I used my brain! lol I have the skill to weld stainless, aluminum, ect. I know I'm not the greatest, but I can do it. On top of materials and time, I would also have had to set up a purge system, which would have meant another argon tank, regulator, hoses, and plugs. If would be different if I intended to make multiple sets, but in this case, one and done, so it wasn't worth the investment.

the5farrs

07-19-2020, 09:14 AM

Awesome car, I love 66 chevelles.

ScotI

07-19-2020, 10:22 AM

I really really wanted to build my own but for once, I used my brain! lol I have the skill to weld stainless, aluminum, ect. I know I'm not the greatest, but I can do it. On top of materials and time, I would also have had to set up a purge system, which would have meant another argon tank, regulator, hoses, and plugs. If would be different if I intended to make multiple sets, but in this case, one and done, so it wasn't worth the investment.

I get it. Pick & choose your battles well.

Yelcamino

07-20-2020, 04:56 AM

WSSix

07-21-2020, 06:52 PM

Yelcamino

07-22-2020, 08:50 AM

Since I couldn't do my own tig welding, I have $2k and 6 months in my headers. I did all the fitting and mock up. The final welding I paid for plus the coating. I'm learning to tig so I'll be able to do it again for less but it's still time consuming and expensive. It's something you have to want to do. It's typically not cheaper than finding someone to do it for you. Those GP Headers look awesome. Why did they not fully weld the collectors on?

Thanks, they turned out nice and the best part is they fit! As for the collectors, They were supposed to be slip fit but I had no reason for them to be removable, so they welded them. I assume the way the tubes wedge into the collector, there's no need for complete welding.

WSSix

07-22-2020, 06:20 PM

My assumption was that it was a tight fit but I wasn't sure. Thanks Herb.

payne

07-25-2020, 10:12 AM

Are your brake ducts going through the frame? If so, as one piece or do you have a coupler through the frame and attach the flex hose on each side of the coupler?

Love the build!!!

Yelcamino

07-25-2020, 03:04 PM

My assumption was that it was a tight fit but I wasn't sure. Thanks Herb.

No problem Trey! :thumbsup:

Yelcamino

07-25-2020, 03:05 PM

Are your brake ducts going through the frame? If so, as one piece or do you have a coupler through the frame and attach the flex hose on each side of the coupler?

Love the build!!!

Yes they go through the frame via a piece of 3" tubing welded in place. The hoses then attach on either side.

Thanks! :thumbsup:

Yelcamino

07-31-2020, 09:20 AM

It's been a busy week! I installed the headers and they fit like a glove! So happy how they turned out. Next on the list was to make the connections from the headers to the exhaust. That's all done and the only thing left is to have thermal barrier coating applied at some point.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50173661891_e2992cb271_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jrF8E4)20200725_165109 (https://flic.kr/p/2jrF8E4) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50173661771_4eeea4d4fd_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jrF8BZ)20200725_163209 (https://flic.kr/p/2jrF8BZ) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

I've also been chipping away at plumbing and wiring. I'm waiting for some fittings to finish the power steering lines and I think plumbing is done. Wiring is at the beginning stage. Battery cables are in place and most of the EFI harness is in. Slow progress, but at least it's progress.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50173116938_503885a9db_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jrCkEj)20200729_191840 (https://flic.kr/p/2jrCkEj) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50173117243_12cbde9b2c_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jrCkKz)20200730_182312 (https://flic.kr/p/2jrCkKz) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

ScotI

08-01-2020, 11:13 AM

It's been a busy week! I installed the headers and they fit like a glove! So happy how they turned out. Next on the list was to make the connections from the headers to the exhaust. That's all done and the only thing left is to have thermal barrier coating applied at some point.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50173661771_4eeea4d4fd_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jrF8BZ)20200725_163209 (https://flic.kr/p/2jrF8BZ) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

I've also been chipping away at plumbing and wiring. I'm waiting for some fittings to finish the power steering lines and I think plumbing is done. Wiring is at the beginning stage. Battery cables are in place and most of the EFI harness is in. Slow progress, but at least it's progress.

What the consensus on running BATT cable & fuel lines when relocating a battery?

I always thought they're ok on the same side as long as each was positively secured but I've read where others say they should be ran on opposing sides of the frame. I can see where 'opposing sides' would ultimately be safer (given the distance between) but not sure of the likelihood they would only cross somewhere else.

Yelcamino

08-01-2020, 02:26 PM

What the consensus on running BATT cable & fuel lines when relocating a battery?

I always thought they're ok on the same side as long as each was positively secured but I've read where others say they should be ran on opposing sides of the frame. I can see where 'opposing sides' would ultimately be safer (given the distance between) but not sure of the likelihood they would only cross somewhere else.

I don't know what other people do, but I route everything as safely and securely as possible. My fuel lines are inside (most of the way) steel tubing and the battery cable (only hot when cranking the engine) has grommets everywhere it passes through steel. Once I'm done under the car, the belly pans will be installed adding another layer of protection.

Yelcamino

08-14-2020, 06:26 PM

Here's a fun update! :popcorn2:

Rdneb5DWzVA

214Chevy

08-14-2020, 07:48 PM

Sounds good!! Nothing like hearing your engine for the first time.

jarhead

08-15-2020, 07:21 AM

I like the size of these pictures. Much better than instagram on a phone.

ScotI

08-15-2020, 10:24 AM

I like the size of these pictures. Much better than instagram on a phone.

x2. Agreed!

WSSix

08-15-2020, 02:16 PM

Congrats, Herb. The car sounds amazing!

Yelcamino

08-15-2020, 06:10 PM

Sounds good!! Nothing like hearing your engine for the first time.

Thanks! I had it running on a test stand prior to this. However, this is the first time hearing it with the exhaust. :D

Yelcamino

08-15-2020, 06:11 PM

I like the size of these pictures. Much better than instagram on a phone.

Me too! Cel phone viewing sucks!

Yelcamino

08-15-2020, 06:12 PM

Congrats, Herb. The car sounds amazing!

Thanks Trey!

Yelcamino

08-19-2020, 07:10 AM

So I just finished building a cold air box. It turned out decent enough considering I don't weld aluminum very often. :welder:

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50243885288_19e3974360_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jxT3Ch)20200818_194028 (https://flic.kr/p/2jxT3Ch) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50243885438_fafc855541_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jxT3ES)20200817_205629 (https://flic.kr/p/2jxT3ES) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50243885538_9c32ee3612_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jxT3GA)20200817_195743 (https://flic.kr/p/2jxT3GA) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

At the bottom of the box are five small holes. There is another piece that will be riveted in place once the box is installed to stay. The piece will close the gap at the bottom.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50243885633_1f1b0dec5e_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jxT3Je)20200817_195722 (https://flic.kr/p/2jxT3Je) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Air will come in through holes in the core support just to the side of the radiator opening and also from around the headlights. I still need to drill the holes but I'll do that before I take it to powder coat.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50243908408_1efbd295b0_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jxTauU)20200709_181512 (https://flic.kr/p/2jxTauU) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Yelcamino

08-21-2020, 02:52 AM

The other day I put the hood on to make sure the air box cleared (plenty of room) and then rolled it outside for some current pics and video...

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50250869876_1d572f0040_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jyuQUd)10143 (https://flic.kr/p/2jyuQUd) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50250870031_9582850776_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jyuQWT)10144 (https://flic.kr/p/2jyuQWT) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Then I brought Yelcamino around so they could get reacquainted!

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50250220218_9bba65ce74_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jyrvMd)10146 (https://flic.kr/p/2jyrvMd) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

I haven't done any actual measurements, but side by side, I think the Chevelle is a tad lower...

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50250869761_6469313785_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jyuQSe)10145 (https://flic.kr/p/2jyuQSe) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

And with special thanks to Andrew for the awesome Holley EFI tune he provided, she sounds awesome!

zfKlGE4RIe8

214Chevy

08-21-2020, 06:52 AM

Nice and the engine sounds awesome.

SSLance

08-21-2020, 08:16 AM

You are at the fun time of the build now Herb, when all of the work starts to pay off!! Looks and sounds great!!

camcojb

08-21-2020, 09:12 AM

That's badass!!!!!!

andrewb70

08-21-2020, 09:23 AM

....

And with special thanks to Andrew for the awesome Holley EFI tune he provided, she sounds awesome!

zfKlGE4RIe8

Herb,

I am really looking forward to doing more tuning. The idle sounds amazing and given the size of the cam, it is idling very smoothly. It should be a beast!

Andrew

Yelcamino

08-21-2020, 11:30 AM

Nice and the engine sounds awesome.

Thanks! :cheers:

You are at the fun time of the build now Herb, when all of the work starts to pay off!! Looks and sounds great!!

The whole thing has been fun and a huge learning curve building my own chassis and making all the parts work/fit together in a way Chevy never intended! lol The nice thing is I think I'm over the hump and the first test drive is within sight!

That's badass!!!!!!

Thanks! :thumbsup:

Yelcamino

08-21-2020, 11:32 AM

Herb,

I am really looking forward to doing more tuning. The idle sounds amazing and given the size of the cam, it is idling very smoothly. It should be a beast!

Andrew

Hey Andrew! Yes the idle sounds amazing! Thank you again for the tune! :bow:

andrewb70

08-21-2020, 01:26 PM

Hey Andrew! Yes the idle sounds amazing! Thank you again for the tune! :bow:

It's just the start of a tune. We have much more work ahead of us, but a solid idle is the foundation of any good tune.

Andrew

WSSix

08-21-2020, 06:42 PM

So badass looking. I love how low the car sits. Good job, Herb.

great work on the tune, Andrew.

andrewb70

08-21-2020, 06:44 PM

...

great work on the tune, Andrew.

Thanks!

It is far from done, but it starts and idles very nicely, which is the first step!

Andrew

Che70velle

08-21-2020, 06:50 PM

Herb, it sounds and looks killer. You have done an amazing job so far on the car.

Yelcamino

08-22-2020, 06:17 AM

It's just the start of a tune. We have much more work ahead of us, but a solid idle is the foundation of any good tune.

Andrew

Most definitely! I'm itching to get it on the road so we can really dial it in! :drive:

Yelcamino

08-22-2020, 06:18 AM

So badass looking. I love how low the car sits. Good job, Herb.

Thanks Trey!

Herb, it sounds and looks killer. You have done an amazing job so far on the car.

Thanks Scott!

bkswede

08-22-2020, 07:40 AM

Looks great! Nice work on the air box, too...

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

Air-bender

08-22-2020, 03:52 PM

Nice job Herb!

Is that a Ultra Carbon hood?

Yelcamino

08-23-2020, 04:17 AM

Looks great! Nice work on the air box, too...

Thanks!

Nice job Herb!

Is that a Ultra Carbon hood?

Thanks! It's a steel hood I bought from an ebay seller (Tamraz) about 10 yrs ago. It came in a Goodmark box without the Goodmark price!

ZMAN1969

08-25-2020, 08:07 AM

what an animal! astounding build - speechless! :drool:

kwhizz

08-27-2020, 05:06 AM

Freak'in Awsum...... Great Job !!!!!!!

Yelcamino

08-30-2020, 05:58 PM

what an animal! astounding build - speechless! :drool:

Thanks!

Freak'in Awsum...... Great Job !!!!!!!

Thanks!

Yelcamino

08-04-2021, 08:41 AM

Hey everyone! I've been away from the forums for about a year(!) but I have a valid excuse... I've been busy getting the Chevelle up and going! I took it to my first event last weekend, the Driveautox at Grissom in Peru, IN.

Overall the car did awesome! I didn't win and I wasn't the fastest by any stretch, but I did get to push the car, play with some shock adjustments, and have a blast! I think as I learn the car we will get faster and better.

Here are some videos and pics from the weekend.

b3wRQV_5mzM

8LxhdrtaDlI

bWtpsyY4KOY

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51357179108_c4ef286862_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mffY6j)20210731_081746 (https://flic.kr/p/2mffY6j) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51356209182_a3836dcdae_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mfaZLs)20210801_081131 (https://flic.kr/p/2mfaZLs) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51357178518_9dd7441184_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mffXV9)20210801_112515 (https://flic.kr/p/2mffXV9) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

And here are a couple of interior shots now that it's done...

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51357179533_db43d67f8d_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mffYdD)20210728_192103 (https://flic.kr/p/2mffYdD) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51357688859_52b9331190_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mfizC8)20210728_192159 (https://flic.kr/p/2mfizC8) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

dontlifttoshift

08-04-2021, 09:20 AM

It was great to see the car out and I look forward to watching it run at more events!!

camcojb

08-04-2021, 09:49 AM

Nice to have you back Herb, love the car!

sru1436

08-04-2021, 10:03 PM

Damn, that car is bad ass. I love the color. I have a white 66, I wish mine was that blue. Is it Marina Blue, or what blue?

WSSix

08-05-2021, 05:48 PM

What a beast of a car. Glad you got it back on the road. I can't believe its been a year since your last update. Have fun dialing it in.

Yelcamino

08-06-2021, 05:32 AM

Damn, that car is bad ass. I love the color. I have a white 66, I wish mine was that blue. Is it Marina Blue, or what blue?

Thanks! It's Marina Blue. Don't let the pictures fool you, in real life, it's kinda rough, but it sure is photogenic! :flashie:

Yelcamino

08-06-2021, 05:34 AM

What a beast of a car. Glad you got it back on the road. I can't believe its been a year since your last update. Have fun dialing it in.

Thanks Trey! I wish the forums weren't so time consuming to post pics. FB and IG have made me pretty lazy with this stuff!

sru1436

08-07-2021, 08:04 AM

I like the hood, who makes it? Looks like it fits perfect.

Yelcamino

08-08-2021, 06:31 AM

I like the hood, who makes it? Looks like it fits perfect.

It's just a regular 2" cowl Goodmark hood and I added a pair of Race Louvers.

sru1436

08-08-2021, 08:19 AM

It's just a regular 2" cowl Goodmark hood and I added a pair of Race Louvers.

Thanks.

Yelcamino

08-18-2021, 08:11 AM

More progress on my attempt at adding downforce to a brick!

For the most part, this car has always had a front spoiler with a very small splitter. Was it effective? I have no idea. However, after doing some reading and seeing what successful racers have done, I decided to improve (I hope) my aero situation.

The first step was choosing material - in this case Sande plywood from HD. It was the least expensive of the nice plywood. Then I drew a pattern and transferred it to the plywood, cut it out, etc. In an effort to reduce weight, I used a router to cut some pockets in it.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51385604452_ffc3d9bbb9_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mhLDXs)20210810_142149 (https://flic.kr/p/2mhLDXs) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51386361211_4b3dc7559b_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mhQwV2)20210810_162346 (https://flic.kr/p/2mhQwV2) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Then I fabbed a pair of splitter ramps because they add downforce without adding drag.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51385604402_f9c4fe4c93_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mhLDWA)20210811_140957 (https://flic.kr/p/2mhLDWA) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51387100514_bb5bf6daa1_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mhUjFC)20210811_150640 (https://flic.kr/p/2mhUjFC) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

And because all the cool kids are doing it, I made some end plates.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51386609578_3c4894f740_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mhRNKd)20210814_140831 (https://flic.kr/p/2mhRNKd) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Because this slab of wood will be on a car in various environments, I coated it in DIY bedliner that was left over from my C10.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51386609618_70cf308823_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mhRNKU)20210814_142722 (https://flic.kr/p/2mhRNKU) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

The final product...

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51386609558_9726d955d6_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mhRNJS)20210814_164222 (https://flic.kr/p/2mhRNJS) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

And installed...

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51386609538_1ce03714eb_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mhRNJw)20210815_141049 (https://flic.kr/p/2mhRNJw) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51385604357_0f84a311ac_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mhLDVP)20210816_182620 (https://flic.kr/p/2mhLDVP) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

After a quick drive I measured my ground clearance at 4". The lowest part of the car is the passenger side link for the Watts. If you look close you can see it back there by the tire.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51386361166_7f8465b3c7_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mhQwUf)20210815_181134 (https://flic.kr/p/2mhQwUf) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

This last one is just because it's a good pic. :)

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51386361121_de7b17d26e_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mhQwTt)20210816_181219 (https://flic.kr/p/2mhQwTt) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

Tinker

08-18-2021, 10:26 AM

Looks great, perfect size that doesn't look out of place.
Nice fabrication skills there.
Let us know if you notice a difference.

ScotI

08-18-2021, 11:08 AM

Looks great, perfect size that doesn't look out of place.
Nice fabrication skills there.
Let us know if you notice a difference.

Much agreed x2. Update when you have some seat time data.

Yelcamino

09-21-2021, 04:10 AM

Last weekend I brought the Chevelle to the Northeast Musclecar Challenge. This was the first road course I've had it on and it impressed me. It went where I pointed it, the power was awesome, it felt planted, and considering the brakes are standard Baer 6P with Bluestuff pads, it stopped on a dime! So overall the car did well, placed about mid pack on the road course and autox. With more seat time, it can only get better!

kW1UoEMaa_Q

MBcXwdEobe0

csycCdZojIs

Yelcamino

10-16-2021, 04:13 AM

Last weekend I entered the Chevelle in the Optima USCA event at NCM. Overall it was a good time but there are still some teething pains that I need to work out, but mainly I need to learn how to drive this thing!

On Saturday morning I was having a hard time getting around the autox. The course was a bit long in areas to stay in first, so I had to shift into second. I'm trying to learn left foot braking but when I throw in a shift here and there, things didn't work out the best! In the afternoon I went back to right foot braking and added some compression to the rear shocks and things started to improve to the tune of dropping about 7 seconds off my morning runs.

On Sunday was the road course, which was fun but I noticed a vibration in the car after going into a turn a little too hot and driving over the rumble strips (more like huge speed bumps). By the third session I decided to come in and not chance it with the vibes getting worse.

One of the coolest things of this event - and a huge surprise to me - I won the Driver's Choice award! That was nice knowing my fellow drivers liked my car enough to select it. :thumbsup:

After I unpacked the trailer, I put the car on the lift to inspect it and everything structural is still in tact! All my welds look good, nothing is bent, and the wheels are still round! I think the vibrations are coming from the clutch, but I won't know for sure until I have a chance to pull the trans.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51595813110_e9cbcbd5c3_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mBm2EE)20211008_134713 (https://flic.kr/p/2mBm2EE) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51595142788_27c79fccf0_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mBhApo)20211009_170451 (https://flic.kr/p/2mBhApo) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51594921396_245acf5158_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mBgsAh)20211009_173705 (https://flic.kr/p/2mBgsAh) by Yelcamino (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42635971@N06/), on Flickr

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