1969 Camaro "Sketchy”

[Spiffav8]

It's been a crazy six months..... mostly good stuff and I'm not complaining. I finally gave into the pain and had shoulder surgery, changed jobs, Mike (98NOVASS) is staying with me while working a new job, bought a Harley Davidson.... twisted Mikes arm and he bought one too and I bought a clean 69 Camaro body.

These are just way to much fun!

https://photos.smugmug.com/69-build/i-8FS5mqF/0/9b636d11/L/65654697255__D116070E-C594-4570-8B19-6D8325E8F6D5-L.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/69-build/i-hBXVLzS/0/755fed78/L/IMG_6777-L.jpg

Ever since The Victim sold I've been watching for the right car. Nothings seemed right and I put the idea of getting another car on hold thinking maybe I'd find one over the winter. SEMA was happening and as usual, it got me thinking about build ideas. Not expecting to find anything but disappointment, I opened OfferUp on my ipad was was surprised to find what looked like a clean body. I spoke with the seller who had bought it, from a widow, thinking it was a real Z28. Apparently it was in a shop full of cars/parts and was covered with years worth of junk and all he could see was the tail pan. He had to buy everything in the shop to get the car...so the story goes. When it turned out not to be a real Z28 he decided to sell everything. Whatever...... :lol: Supposedly the previous owner was going to build it into a Trans-Am style race car in the early 80's and then switched directions and went with a different car. Based on the panels, sub-frame modifications, 2nd gen parts and dash that came with the car, it seems possible. So I snagged my buddies trailer and asked Mike for an assist.

https://photos.smugmug.com/69-build/i-WCHwtJf/0/d88f8e2d/XL/IMG_6670-XL.jpg

It was a 2am departure out of Vegas for SoCal and about half was we stopped for breakfast. Word of advise.... no matter how much of a straight shot it looks like, don't try to tow a trailer though the driver though. :lol: That was an adventure all on it's own! Mike did great though.

We arrived and looked the car over and it was better than advertised. So we loaded it up and head back to Vegas.

https://photos.smugmug.com/69-build/i-rssBGQD/0/e6286f22/L/IMG_6681-L.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/69-build/i-2rxbm7v/0/eb8ce48c/L/IMG_6678-L.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/69-build/i-rM8VpCP/0/242270e4/L/IMG_6679-L.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/69-build/i-gc7wjC3/0/5e0d8472/L/IMG_6680-L.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/69-build/i-9vqsfBg/0/e0c7bfff/L/IMG_6675-L.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/69-build/i-f9FPd3f/0/03c196f3/L/IMG_6674-L.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/69-build/i-vgbBZNt/0/1e005856/L/65879925629__9CE1BBEB-76F5-4CE7-958D-59DE9FDFD8BD-L.jpg

In another thread, I mentioned picking up an LS7 and having Katech work some of their magic on it. It's will be the heart of the build and should be more than enough to keep me entertained.

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-4PhLk6V/0/7132e156/L/i-4PhLk6V-L.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-w5g7JbL/0/d3466dfe/L/i-w5g7JbL-L.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-QPZfmW9/0/3a40cede/L/i-QPZfmW9-L.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-85MCdpS/0/84d78eae/L/i-85MCdpS-L.jpg

I have a few ideas, but nothing set in stone. It will be a lot like The Victim, only more refined. With free time being a challenge, I may have a shop do the bulk of the work and of course I would love for Jim to paint the car if he has time. For now it's Pro Jack Stand. I hope to get things started around the end of the year. Time will tell.

Thanks for looking! :captain:

[camcojb]

Thanks Curtis! What a great car to start with.

[syborg tt]

Really just One post.

We need more


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Spiffav8]

Thanks Curtis! What a great car to start with.

It seems so. The floors and trunk pan are the cleanest I’ve ever seen. Other than a few small dings that I’d bet are from it being stored since the 80’s, the body has no real damage. It will need a new dash, but that shouldn’t be to hard. The original was removed the right way and I have it. No hidden surprises this time.

Really just One post.

We need more


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Guess I should have broken that up into three posts. :lol:

It’s going to be a challenging build. The same struggle as the last one in that I really want two cars. One built raw and mean just for the track and one that has incredible fit, finish and details that suck people in. The last car embodied both, but also sacrificed a little of each. I’ll admit it was fun to see the stunned look on peoples faces when I’d start the car to leave an event or drop the hammer on the freeway, belch a little fire out of the exhaust. But it was also fun to watch people get lost looking at the car. That look of amazement and appreciation for Jim’s work, from all walks of life, was just cool on so many levels. I hope I can pull it off again!

[XLexusTech]

Subscribed ..

[Sheck44]

Curtis ... I was just in LV to see Metallica
Buddy, Can't wait to see what direction this goes !!! LOVE the engine, and big fan of the intake, it's so clean

Cheers
Steve

[Spiffav8]

Curtis ... I was just in LV to see Metallica
Buddy, Can't wait to see what direction this goes !!! LOVE the engine, and big fan of the intake, it's so clean

Cheers
Steve

Steve I’m sorry I missed you. I was out of town for training or I’d have been there with you!

Next time you’re in town let’s make it a point to get dinner. I’ll take you to my favorite steak house in Vegas.

:captain”

[Vegas69]

I like it all with the exception of the Kimber. :lol:

[jeff71]

I like it all with the exception of the Kimber. :lol:

:lol: I was thinking the same thing…….. Nighthawk or Wilson for my 1911’s.

[camcojb]

:lol: I was thinking the same thing…….. Nighthawk or Wilson for my 1911’s.

You rich guys... :G-Dub:

[Spiffav8]

I like it all with the exception of the Kimber. :lol:

:lol: I was thinking the same thing…….. Nighthawk or Wilson for my 1911’s.

It’s a tack driver. Of everything I’ve run, SIG is by far my favorite. Primarily their P226 TACOPS. I got some trigger time with Welds Wilson and they do make a very nice firearm, but it would never be my go to… nor would the Kimber. :lol:

[WSSix]

Congrats on finding a new project, Curtis. Can't wait to see it come together.

[Steve68]

Good name,

Sketchy like the owner!

[jarhead]

Welcome Back, Subscribed!

[Spiffav8]

Congrats on finding a new project, Curtis. Can't wait to see it come together.

Thanks bud. It will be an interesting adventure.

Good name,

Sketchy like the owner!

100%

Welcome Back, Subscribed!

I’ve been lurking. :lol:

[tmadden]

It's been a crazy six months..... mostly good stuff and I'm not complaining. I finally gave into the pain and had shoulder surgery, changed jobs, Mike (98NOVASS) is staying with me while working a new job, bought a Harley Davidson.... twisted Mikes arm and he bought one too and I bought a clean 69 Camaro body.

These are just way to much fun!

https://photos.smugmug.com/69-build/i-8FS5mqF/0/9b636d11/L/65654697255__D116070E-C594-4570-8B19-6D8325E8F6D5-L.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/69-build/i-hBXVLzS/0/755fed78/L/IMG_6777-L.jpg

Ever since The Victim sold I've been watching for the right car. Nothings seemed right and I put the idea of getting another car on hold thinking maybe I'd find one over the winter. SEMA was happening and as usual, it got me thinking about build ideas. Not expecting to find anything but disappointment, I opened OfferUp on my ipad was was surprised to find what looked like a clean body. I spoke with the seller who had bought it, from a widow, thinking it was a real Z28. Apparently it was in a shop full of cars/parts and was covered with years worth of junk and all he could see was the tail pan. He had to buy everything in the shop to get the car...so the story goes. When it turned out not to be a real Z28 he decided to sell everything. Whatever...... :lol: Supposedly the previous owner was going to build it into a Trans-Am style race car in the early 80's and then switched directions and went with a different car. Based on the panels, sub-frame modifications, 2nd gen parts and dash that came with the car, it seems possible. So I snagged my buddies trailer and asked Mike for an assist.

https://photos.smugmug.com/69-build/i-WCHwtJf/0/d88f8e2d/XL/IMG_6670-XL.jpg

It was a 2am departure out of Vegas for SoCal and about half was we stopped for breakfast. Word of advise.... no matter how much of a straight shot it looks like, don't try to tow a trailer though the driver though. :lol: That was an adventure all on it's own! Mike did great though.

We arrived and looked the car over and it was better than advertised. So we loaded it up and head back to Vegas.

https://photos.smugmug.com/69-build/i-rssBGQD/0/e6286f22/L/IMG_6681-L.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/69-build/i-2rxbm7v/0/eb8ce48c/L/IMG_6678-L.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/69-build/i-rM8VpCP/0/242270e4/L/IMG_6679-L.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/69-build/i-gc7wjC3/0/5e0d8472/L/IMG_6680-L.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/69-build/i-9vqsfBg/0/e0c7bfff/L/IMG_6675-L.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/69-build/i-f9FPd3f/0/03c196f3/L/IMG_6674-L.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/69-build/i-vgbBZNt/0/1e005856/L/65879925629__9CE1BBEB-76F5-4CE7-958D-59DE9FDFD8BD-L.jpg

In another thread, I mentioned picking up an LS7 and having Katech work some of their magic on it. It's will be the heart of the build and should be more than enough to keep me entertained.

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-4PhLk6V/0/7132e156/L/i-4PhLk6V-L.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-w5g7JbL/0/d3466dfe/L/i-w5g7JbL-L.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-QPZfmW9/0/3a40cede/L/i-QPZfmW9-L.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-85MCdpS/0/84d78eae/L/i-85MCdpS-L.jpg

I have a few ideas, but nothing set in stone. It will be a lot like The Victim, only more refined. With free time being a challenge, I may have a shop do the bulk of the work and of course I would love for Jim to paint the car if he has time. For now it's Pro Jack Stand. I hope to get things started around the end of the year. Time will tell.

Thanks for looking! :captain:

Ah hah!!!! Welcome brother

[fleetus macmullitz]

It’s going to be a challenging build. The same struggle as the last one in that I really want two cars. One built raw and mean just for the track and one that has incredible fit, finish and details that suck people in. The last car embodied both, but also sacrificed a little of each. I’ll admit it was fun to see the stunned look on peoples faces when I’d start the car to leave an event or drop the hammer on the freeway, belch a little fire out of the :thumbsup:exhaust. But it was also fun to watch people get lost looking at the car. That look of amazement and appreciation for Jim’s work, from all walks of life, was just cool on so many levels. I hope I can pull it off again!

Congrats Curtis.:thumbsup:

IMHO your project goals sound exactly like WWSB…



aka ‘what would Stielow build’!

[Ricochet]

About time you let the cat out of the bag!! 🤣 Great foundation!! Looking forward to see this one come together.. No doubt will be killer!!

[Spiffav8]

About time you let the cat out of the bag!! 🤣 Great foundation!! Looking forward to see this one come together.. No doubt will be killer!!

Thanks man. It’ll be a good time for sure.

[214Chevy]

I know this isn't a gun thread, but I must say...Kimber's are so sweet and super expensive. I want one and will get one some day when I feel like spending the coin on one. They are too pretty to even conceal carry. LOL!! OK, now back to our scheduled program. The engine is sweet...I'm subscribed.

[130fe]

Excited to watch the new build Curtis! 👍

[Jay Hilliard]

Awesome find Curtis! Looking forward to the build.

[Lenie]

Curtis, how did the shoulder surgery go? I've been in the same situation for the past year but have put off surgery and just lived with the limitations and pain. Looking forward to the new build.

[Steve68]

so......

Whats you ideas for this new plan and build, colors, wheels, just seeing what you want to let out of the bag,

[214Chevy]

so......

Whats you ideas for this new plan and build, colors, wheels, just seeing what you want to let out of the bag,

I've been wondering this too...

[Spiffav8]

I've been wondering this too...

I’ve got a few ideas rolling around in my head. But nothing solid.

Suggestions?

[sleepertime]

Just saying...

I'll bet Charlie hasn't even done one in this theme...

:lmao:

[Spiffav8]

Curtis, how did the shoulder surgery go? I've been in the same situation for the past year but have put off surgery and just lived with the limitations and pain. Looking forward to the new build.

I never should have waited. The damage was so much worse than they thought. Recovery kept me out of the cockpit for four months. Used a CRYO machine for recovery. Best Buy I’ve made to date. Feel pretty good now. Still a bit more to rehab. Doc says it’ll probably take up to a year. I am back to work…sending this from 41000’ over Little Rock.

:lol:

[blowngasr]

HEY!…….there’s a painter….I mean a guy in row 7 seat 3c sweaty palms nervous about flying.and YOUR TEXTING at 40 thousand feet!!! Keep that stuff to yourself please…😂😂…

[Spiffav8]

HEY!…….there’s a painter….I mean a guy in row 7 seat 3c sweaty palms nervous about flying.and YOUR TEXTING at 40 thousand feet!!! Keep that stuff to yourself please…😂😂…

I’ll send you a selfie tomorrow. :lol:

[Mikael A]

Congratulations on the great find.:excited::excited:

[syborg tt]

Just saying...

I'll bet Charlie hasn't even done one in this theme...

:lmao:


Heck I would love to build something like this.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Spiffav8]

Just saying...

I'll bet Charlie hasn't even done one in this theme...

:lmao:

:lmao: I knew better but still put it out there. :lol:

[DBasher]

Love it all! The bike, the portable hole punch and man what a great shell to start with, that whole “better lucky than smart” is really paying off for you! 😂 Time to call Speedtech and start ordering some goodies!

[Spiffav8]

@jody.... nothing new to report. :lol:

[Spiffav8]

Killing time over here and decided to knock some of the surface rust off the car. It's bugging me. Still has a ways to go and I need to get into the tight spots with a different wheel, but it's a start. Messy, but I find it oddly satisfying.

I called Brycen Smith a few weeks ago asking about acid dipping the car. After some discussion I asked if he would be willing/able to do the metal and fab work for me. He agreed and I couldn't be happier. Once I've got the suspension ordered I'll have the car taken to be dipped and then delivered to Brycens shop PRD Designs. https://www.prddesign.com/

That's all for now and it's not really much of an update.

https://photos.smugmug.com/69/i-NCHccqD/0/66a9767b/L/68151696342__DD092D21-0B38-4205-A183-3E8467D8451A-L.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/69/i-MXjsCfv/0/0b451df9/L/IMG_7737-L.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/69/i-F3DvPnV/0/2e82647d/L/IMG_7736-L.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/69/i-CSZJ3wh/0/99c97329/L/68151698711__17CC1B82-6B66-4727-A731-D0C8D8162B85-L.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/69/i-BfzrSCK/0/2a5e5f00/L/IMG_7754-L.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/69/i-ndH6w3k/0/4cc32f5a/L/IMG_7755-L.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/69/i-Zdfwr99/0/25ec9d7c/L/IMG_7756-L.jpg

[camcojb]

That is SUCH a clean car. :thumbsup:

[garickman]

Thats looking really nice.

[DFRESH]

Sketchy----I had to log in and see for myself. You'll still probably have it done before mine.

I'll keep checking in, please keep the updates coming!

D

[WSSix]

Sounds like a good plan to me. Can't wait to see where you two take this one.

[Spiffav8]

Sketchy----I had to log in and see for myself. You'll still probably have it done before mine.

I'll keep checking in, please keep the updates coming!

D

Well now I know how to get you to post! :lol: With as detailed as your car is, I actually might be done before you. It'll be a tight finish for sure.

There won't be anything exciting, but I'll keep posting. Good to hear from you Brother!! :cheers:

[Spiffav8]

Sounds like a good plan to me. Can't wait to see where you two take this one.

I've got a few ideas and the nuts a bolt parts are coming together. Still not sure on a lot of things, but I've got time.

:captain:

[Spiffav8]

The car (body) came on this very basic cart. Not the greatest. The pinch weld sits directly on the 2x2 frame of the cart and is kept from sliding off by a few tabs. Mike and I ran straps through the car and around the cart to transport it to Vegas and then nearly dropped the body in the street trying to get the car off the trailer and into the garage. Looking at ways to modify the cart so the car is secure, won't fall off and could be transported on it. I'm not a welder, but a buddy came by and we've discussed a few options. At first I thought the body just needed to be re-positioned on the cart, but the frame rail supports in the rear kind of prevent that. The frame rail supports are kind of flimsy and of course the wheels all have flat spots on them and don't want to cooperate. I've got wheels so that's not a big deal. Shouldn't the car be up off the cart and supported differently? This is a new one for me.

https://photos.smugmug.com/69/i-qqvcDLH/0/a0bf4980/L/68167770213__F4CCA621-C4DD-46C0-83E2-1F76F735FDFF-L.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/69/i-VLMr93M/0/64ad078c/L/68176309457__3E99CFC2-D01F-4F2D-A368-A1AB3C3DE9D6-L.jpg

The body rides more on this tab than the cart. Not ideal.

https://photos.smugmug.com/69/i-FwjRgHm/0/e29b6b2b/L/68176313714__2F99132A-E21F-4FF7-816A-A70438E856E0-L.jpg

The tabs in the rear don't do sh!t.

https://photos.smugmug.com/69/i-3SC5SjF/0/8cdf1ae2/L/68176268529__E7D95776-8804-46C1-8295-13A796D6906E-L.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/69/i-5nZkFW2/0/0db22e6e/L/68176423794__1E0F7B42-5A91-47C1-BC69-0DEADBE731A8-L.jpg

Thanks for looking. :captain:

[WSSix]

I'd redesign the cart most likely. Unless you can weld flanges onto the existing cart. You could secure the front with the rear most front subframe bolt hole and or the firewall subframe holes. Might need spacers or stands to rear up to the body from the car. The rear could be secured at the leaf spring pockets. This would still be a low to the ground cart just for transporting though. Is that what you're after or are you wanting something higher up so you can work under the car while it's on the cart?

[dhutton]

This is my first gen body jig. Probably overkill for what you want but might give you some ideas.

Don

[fleetus macmullitz]

This is my first gen body jig. Probably overkill for what you want but might give you some ideas.

Don

That does not look sketchy enough though…

:walkingdog:

[Spiffav8]

I'd redesign the cart most likely. Unless you can weld flanges onto the existing cart. You could secure the front with the rear most front subframe bolt hole and or the firewall subframe holes. Might need spacers or stands to rear up to the body from the car. The rear could be secured at the leaf spring pockets. This would still be a low to the ground cart just for transporting though. Is that what you're after or are you wanting something higher up so you can work under the car while it's on the cart?

I was thinking the same locations as well, but then 98NOVASS pointed out that the tipping point is where the frame rails meet the floor. With the front end and sub off the car, the trunk weight would make it prone to tipping. Probably why we almost dumped it in the street. Extending the cart and adding tabs that attach to the rear leaf spring mount would resolve that issue.

This is my first gen body jig. Probably overkill for what you want but might give you some ideas.

Don

A lot closer to what seems right. By pure chance, this seems to be resolved.

That does not look sketchy enough though…

:walkingdog:

Trust me the entire adventure has been 100% Sketchy... and I'm just getting started. :rolleyes:

[Spiffav8]

The guy down the street from has been building a 67. Well thought out car with Speedtech suspension. He's done a lot of the work himself and it's impressive. He sent a text message yesterday asking if I wanted to buy his rotisserie. The price was awesome and I jumped on it. He's a great guy and we wheeled it up the street and he helped me get the body setup on it. Not sure I can transport the car on it, but it'll make working on it here a lot easier!

https://photos.smugmug.com/69/i-p7WSJhw/0/0770be1f/XL/IMG_7764-XL.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/69/i-Kz2z7dZ/0/d6de3af0/XL/IMG_7765-XL.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/69/i-kTV9ZSp/0/3cf866b5/XL/IMG_7766-XL.jpg

[Spiffav8]

Hit a few more spots on the car and thought I'd try an area with paint on it just to see. :rolleyes: Problem is I really like the way it looks and now I'll end up doing the entire car instead of just the areas with surface rust. :lol: Of course I noticed a few areas that needed more attention and had to hit them again. All the little holes and edges on the firewall make it a pain in the a$$ and catching an edge eats the roller pretty quick. Learning as I go here.

https://photos.smugmug.com/69/i-PhWMbp9/0/35a67727/XL/IMG_7773-XL.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/69/i-GRptdFz/0/d755b757/XL/IMG_7774-XL.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/69/i-MwtbJrr/0/55dadd6b/XL/IMG_7775-XL.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/69/i-VsrKmkF/0/762123af/XL/IMG_7776-XL.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/69/i-S3bkZch/0/9a3b9e77/XL/IMG_7777-XL.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/69/i-Xr2Hq8M/0/88c54dbe/XL/IMG_7778-XL.jpg

[camcojb]

What is this "roller" you speak of?

[Spiffav8]

I expected the paint to come off like the primer and surface rust. Pulling the drum across it felt more like dragging a knife through a bar of clay and it kind of piled up like it was being pulled. I expected it to be hard. It's not thick, but thicker than expected.

https://photos.smugmug.com/69/i-kHnBpnT/0/d2291c49/XL/IMG_7781-XL.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/69/i-q8NHpHx/0/e262707d/XL/IMG_7783-XL.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/69/i-mJ22qqr/0/7802c0ac/XL/IMG_7785-XL.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/69/i-J5VMDpt/0/505745db/XL/IMG_7787-XL.jpg

That's as far as I got for today. I need to clear the parts out of the car and remove the door handles/locks. Probably be a few before I get after it again.

Thanks for looking! :captain:

[Spiffav8]

What is this "roller" you speak of?

This is a full size one.

https://photos.smugmug.com/69/i-kWrpzTV/0/f2b9a0b9/XL/IMG_7790-XL.jpg

This is 1/4 size for getting into smaller areas. Burned through the first one pretty quick with all the sharp edges on the fire wall.

https://photos.smugmug.com/69/i-4nqCDSJ/0/f171f347/XL/IMG_7782-XL.jpg

I looked it up. Eastwood calls it a drum. :twak: Makes more sense.

[Ketzer]

https://photos.smugmug.com/69/i-kHnBpnT/0/d2291c49/XL/IMG_7781-XL.jpg



Drum stripping is some serious work but that finish is so gratifying!!

Looks like they skim coated the entire door with filler previously? I see it a lot on social media, I guess that's common to get all the panels even?

Be sure to check with your paint guy before you put anything on that bare metal to keep it from flash rusting again... I understand that silicone products are a big no-no.

Jeff-

[Jimbo1367]

The finish of that stripper wheel looks fantastic. Very professional. Much like how DSE finishes their metal work. The stellar results I’m talking about.

[Spiffav8]

Drum stripping is some serious work but that finish is so gratifying!!

Looks like they skim coated the entire door with filler previously? I see it a lot on social media, I guess that's common to get all the panels even?

Be sure to check with your paint guy before you put anything on that bare metal to keep it from flash rusting again... I understand that silicone products are a big no-no.

Jeff-

Sent the pics to a few body guys and they all said it’s older bondo like product. Talked to Joe at Dutchboys and Brycen about protecting the metal after stripping it. Both said to use GIBBs.

The finish of that stopper wheel looks fantastic. Very professional. Much like how DSE finishes their metal work. The stellar results I’m talking about.

Yeah it’s crazy. Very satisfying!

[Spiffav8]

It was seriously hot today and humid for Las Vegas. No idea how anyone survives in places like Georgia this time of the year. I may need an intervention as this is all I want to do. I definitely could use an IV after working in the garage today. Lot of clean up work!

Finished stripping the top half of the door, sail panel and then went after the passenger side rear quarter. Also hit the drivers side again.

https://photos.smugmug.com/69/i-KcWxzT5/0/840425f4/XL/IMG_7791-XL.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/69/i-M7fqbCF/0/99fc606a/XL/IMG_7792-XL.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/69/i-DkzN3M7/0/e893666a/XL/IMG_7793-XL.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/69/i-SGjxjbf/0/473b741d/XL/IMG_7794-XL.jpg

[dhutton]

Are you still planning to dip the car?

Don

[Spiffav8]

Are you still planning to dip the car?

Don

Yes for a few reasons. After the fight with the filler on the door I hit a small area on a few other parts to see if it was partial repaint, but it's everywhere. There are tight spots/spots I cant get into and I want everything clean and protected. Whatever it is they use on the back side of the front fenders doesn't look like fun trying to remove. The dipping process will remove everything. Additionally they apply a rust inhibitor that will help protect the body and parts till it's able to get into the paint shop.

[Jimbo1367]

You’re doing it right. Great work!!!!

[fleetus macmullitz]

How’s the shoulder holding up, Bruh?

https://i.postimg.cc/nhhHv23K/2-ACE3-B9-E-76-EB-489-F-8482-1-BF8-CA706-D33.jpg (https://postimages.cc/)

[67Ruckus]

The guy down the street from has been building a 67. Well thought out car with Speedtech suspension. He's done a lot of the work himself and it's impressive. He sent a text message yesterday asking if I wanted to buy his rotisserie. The price was awesome and I jumped on it. He's a great guy and we wheeled it up the street and he helped me get the body setup on it. Not sure I can transport the car on it, but it'll make working on it here a lot easier!

https://photos.smugmug.com/69/i-p7WSJhw/0/0770be1f/XL/IMG_7764-XL.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/69/i-Kz2z7dZ/0/d6de3af0/XL/IMG_7765-XL.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/69/i-kTV9ZSp/0/3cf866b5/XL/IMG_7766-XL.jpg

Your car looks better on the old rotisserie than my crusty 67! Excited to see this build progress!

[Spiffav8]

How’s the shoulder holding up, Bruh?

https://i.postimg.cc/nhhHv23K/2-ACE3-B9-E-76-EB-489-F-8482-1-BF8-CA706-D33.jpg (https://postimages.cc/)

Shoulder is great! Started doing massage therapy and that's been a massive help. It still gets fatigued after some decent use, but I recover quickly. A bit of gym time and it'll be back to normal.

Thanks for asking.

Your car looks better on the old rotisserie than my crusty 67! Excited to see this build progress!

Lucky find!

[Spiffav8]

Headed out on the Ride For the Fallen tomorrow (Monday) morning. Be riding my HD from Las Vegas to Arlington National Cemetery with the Coast to Coast Foundation. CxC is made up of active and former members of the Special Operations Community, who I supported for just over 10 years. We raise funds and send Vets to get treatment for TBI's and much more. Additionally we work to assist Gold Start Families, raise awareness and provide a confidential place for Vets to talk about what they've been through. I am proud to say we have put 84 through treatment so far.

The motto of Ride For the Fallen is Celebrate, Remember and Honor and we do just that. Every year we do just that for a few selected SOF who fell in combat. This year we have two Gold Start Family Members joining us for the ride. One who lost a son and another who lost her husband. It is very humbling to have them with us. It's great to see them smile and laugh.

It's a very personal thing for me. I went to great lengths to protect those I supported as best I could. My goal was to insure they all came home and I hung it out pretty far and did some truly sketchy sh1t to accomplish that. Sadly I lost five in combat. That mission continues for me and I've learned that the clock is ticking for many who have returned. At least twice a year I am notified that someone has ended their life. It's heartbreaking and it makes me mad, so my mission continues.

If you're along the route, please come out and join us. Or you can follow along via Instagram @cxcfoundation Here's the link to our website if you want to read up on more of what we do. https://coastxcoast.org/

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-N6wKWRb/0/d7a5ebe2/XL/i-N6wKWRb-XL.png

All dressed up and ready to roll!
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-TwvtPQ5/0/76b7bddf/XL/i-TwvtPQ5-XL.jpg

Combat Veterans of America, Las Vegas Chapter met and escorted us into Las Vegas.

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-ppWcczR/0/de993bf1/L/i-ppWcczR-L.jpg

:captain:

[camcojb]

That's awesome Curtis!!!!:thumbsup:

[WSSix]

Safe travels to you and the whole group, Curtis!

[Spiffav8]

Well gents.... what a ride. An amazing time with some incredible people. Such a great experience and a lot of fun to say the least. We had some great events along the way and the scenery was stunning. We had two Gold Stars with us on the ride this year. One who rode her late husbands bike, which we had tracked down, stole and had repaired. In Las Vegas we held the Hero's Classic hockey game. Each player wore a jersey with the name of an Honoree on the back. The leg to Scottsdale I drove the truck and was joined by Nick Lavery, the only SOF amputee to return to active duty and deploy to combat. He's a bada$$. He spoke at our Scottsdale event which was held at Top Golf and helped raise money to treat Vets. From there we headed to Albuquerque. No event, but a great time for the riders to connect, rest and get a bit of laundry done. Next day we headed to Amarillo, TX. Along the way a dozen motor officers, another dozen in SUVs and about 50 motorcycle riders joined us. We had a police escort the last 100 miles and didn't stop for anything. That'll never get old! Great event there and the turn out was truly impressive. Next was Dallas, TX for three nights. The last 50 miles we rode in the rain and to say I was soaked is an understatement. We had an Air BNB which was full of food and beverages thanks to some local support. We held two events one at the home of a local motorcycle collector. A smaller and private event where we turn out all the lights, cameras and phones are put away and we gather around a bonfire. Let's just say not a dry eye in the place. The next night was a Motley Crew cover band complete with pyro, midgets and dancing girls. We had been joined by a Gold Star mother who was front row rocking out with her small dog under her arm. It was great to see her let loose and have some fun. Next stop was Hot Springs Arkansas where some of our members dove Fearless Rock which is about 30' under water at the base of a Dam. Adam Brown's (one of this years Honorees) parents came out as did his widow Kelly, who is planning to join us next year on the ride. The local Sheriffs department gave us an escort in and insured we had zero interference. Hot Springs was our last official event as the back half of the ride is designed to be more decompression prior to Arlington. Nashville was a quick stop, but we managed to get out and have some great laughs before pushing to Boone, NC. I was glad to be off I-40 and the ride into NC was stunningly. Winkler Knives, who has a special tie to the special operations community, hosted us for a few hours and shared some very special things. The last push was into Arlington, VA and once again we got soaked. Traffic in that area is no joke, but we worked as a group to push our way through and arrived at the hotel late in the afternoon. We got some strange looks rolling through the city streets. The evening was good food and laughs before heading to bed. It was an early departure to Arlington National Cemetery. More Gold Start family members joined us in addition to team mates of those buried there. We visited the head stones of each, read the official release of each as well as hearing stories from those who knew them and how they died. The kind of thing that has you crying, angry and laughing. In the distance bagpipes where playing, a 21 gun salute, marine one flying up the river and even a missing man flyby from some F15's. A heavy day. It was a great experience and I am looking forward to next years.

A few pics from the trip.

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-GfRfmLT/0/209202d2/M/i-GfRfmLT-M.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-wnsSf2g/0/af73e774/M/i-wnsSf2g-M.jpg

April Bittner said she want to ride in a Fire Truck so we made that happen. :lol:
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-3X8pq8j/0/2d67e3ad/M/i-3X8pq8j-M.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-t4FDVJb/0/24638cb5/M/i-t4FDVJb-M.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-vD2PC8T/0/20a0e992/M/i-vD2PC8T-M.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-sVr6dDb/0/cb982fb6/M/i-sVr6dDb-M.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-75Jpv4g/0/1c1e2be0/M/i-75Jpv4g-M.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-vd7k9bs/0/0f562049/M/i-vd7k9bs-M.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-CJK2kgJ/0/625d0101/M/i-CJK2kgJ-M.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-zsqJbW6/0/978c48c8/M/i-zsqJbW6-M.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-9NJc7vB/0/9c08446a/M/i-9NJc7vB-M.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-fbBDsrq/0/b12548fe/M/i-fbBDsrq-M.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-dZSZK3L/0/4c04d51a/M/i-dZSZK3L-M.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-BPrR3DT/0/dc28a3d3/M/i-BPrR3DT-M.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-Vqg8RrD/0/f8918d04/M/i-Vqg8RrD-M.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-fKRVqbT/0/d87a17c4/M/i-fKRVqbT-M.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-fPLKKjs/0/f2d5a502/M/i-fPLKKjs-M.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-XsJpThV/0/1436365b/M/i-XsJpThV-M.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-hLWTdnC/0/bf0ada82/M/i-hLWTdnC-M.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-VGTTNKt/0/996a5c63/M/i-VGTTNKt-M.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-B3mfDGJ/0/8e7600f8/M/i-B3mfDGJ-M.jpg

This years Honorees

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-35V3htn/0/f9094ca5/M/i-35V3htn-M.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-Sx8spp7/0/72434dfe/M/i-Sx8spp7-M.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-HPHwSMF/0/0f707790/M/i-HPHwSMF-M.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-5t22HNW/0/e5ac7fdf/M/i-5t22HNW-M.jpg

[camcojb]

You are a hell of a good guy Curtis.

[WSSix]

Glad you all had a successful and safe trip! Thanks for sharing the pictures.

[Cramer4918]

That is an almost pristine body! WOW! It will definitely turn out to be a killer build!

Thank you for your Service and for sharing the pics from your ride. :military:

[Spiffav8]

You are a hell of a good guy Curtis.

Thank You. I'm doing my best.

Glad you all had a successful and safe trip! Thanks for sharing the pictures.

The Ride For the Fallen is great on many levels. Helping Vets, Honoring the Fallen and giving people a place that no matter what, they are accepted. In many ways it reminds me of the car community when we gather at events and share information to help others. I think things like that are the glue that bond us. Silly differences tend to be less important and disappear. We could use more of that these days if you ask me.

That is an almost pristine body? WOW! It will definitely turn out to be a killer build!

Thank you for your Service and for sharing the pics from your ride. :military:

A lucky find for sure. It'll be fun and I look forward to some great adventures with it.

Just to be clear... I wasn't in the military. I was a Department of Defense Contractor supporting the Special Operations Community. A very interesting place to find ones self.

[Cramer4918]

A lucky find for sure. It'll be fun and I look forward to some great adventures with it.

Just to be clear... I wasn't in the military. I was a Department of Defense Contractor supporting the Special Operations Community. A very interesting place to find ones self.

Copy that. I understand. Either way, your support and contributions are appreciated.

Looking forward to the progress of your build!

[Gmachine1911]

Copy that. I understand. Either way, your support and contributions are appreciated.

Looking forward to the progress of your build!

X2 on both statements. Nick Lavery is an absolute stud and there’s good reason for his nickname, “The Machine”. I listened to “The Shawn Ryan Show” where Nick was the guest and all I can say is, Wow! I’m thankful he’s on our side!

[DWC]

Nick was on a recent Jocko podcast as well. Stud is right…

Daniel

[Spiffav8]

Copy that. I understand. Either way, your support and contributions are appreciated.

Looking forward to the progress of your build!

Thank You.

X2 on both statements. Nick Lavery is an absolute stud and there’s good reason for his nickname, “The Machine”. I listened to “The Shawn Ryan Show” where Nick was the guest and all I can say is, Wow! I’m thankful he’s on our side!

Nick was on a recent Jocko podcast as well. Stud is right…

Daniel

Nick is a all around great human. He's doing some great things for others. One to keep an eye on for sure.

[Steve68]

It was seriously hot today and humid for Las Vegas. No idea how anyone survives in places like Georgia this time of the year. I may need an intervention as this is all I want to do. I definitely could use an IV after working in the garage today. Lot of clean up work!

Ummm, HELLO...Some of us live in Hell....AKA Florida.......smh...

[Spiffav8]

Ummm, HELLO...Some of us live in Hell....AKA Florida.......smh...

:lol: I get you. After living in dry climates forever, 20% has me going WTH. Every time I fly into FL I wonder why people live there. Everything feels damp. :faint:

[Steve68]

:lol: I get you. After living in dry climates forever, 20% has me going WTH. Every time I fly into FL I wonder why people live there. Everything feels damp. :faint:


I used to go Edwards AFB 7 times a year, I was there so often, I would come home and try to get back on the plane, the humidity was ruthless, my shop was easily 100-105* and it rains all the time,

Its even worse now, so we had a hurricane, and everything flooded, so if water soaks back into the ground, and the ground is soil and limestone which makes the water absorb rather fast, and when you pour concrete and more concrete and build more house's roads, apartments, houses,

WHERE'S THE WATER SUPPOSED TO GO!!!! Hmmmm.....

Come on keep pouring more concrete,

During the storm, they were like Orlando will see 12" of water, I was like hell, we 6" a day big deal, day of the storm 4:30am we had some good flooding most I've seen, by 8:30, it all had receded, lucky yes,

I'm condensing my shop every day, one day It just might be time to move,

next time your here let me know, I'm 15 min or less from MCO,

On with more pics.....

[OLDFLM]

next time your here let me know, I'm 15 min or less from MCO,

On with more pics.....

Me too! I live just 15 minutes east of MCO... I feel a plan brewing!

[Steve68]

Me too! I live just 15 minutes east of MCO... I feel a plan brewing!

Wasn't I at your house in Avalon??? it's been to many years and I've been to many places, I think I get lost walking to my shop,

Where are you now??

[Revolutionary]

That's a pretty sweet trailer you got there buddy :hello:

[Spiffav8]

Me too! I live just 15 minutes east of MCO... I feel a plan brewing!

Wasn't I at your house in Avalon??? it's been to many years and I've been to many places, I think I get lost walking to my shop,

Where are you now??

Oh yeah... It'll happen. Just a matter of time.

That's a pretty sweet trailer you got there buddy :hello:

Thanks Wish it was mine to haul cars around in.

[OLDFLM]

Wasn't I at your house in Avalon??? it's been to many years and I've been to many places, I think I get lost walking to my shop,

Where are you now??

Yep! Still in Avalon Park... that was years ago though... we need to get together again soon!

[tmadden]

excellent start to what will be one badass car. Good luck bro!

[Steve68]

Yep! Still in Avalon Park... that was years ago though... we need to get together again soon!

Say When!

[OLDFLM]

Say When!

PM'd my new phone number... let's plan something soon!

Cars & Coffee at Drive Shack? Burgers & Beers with the brides?

[jarhead]

Headed out on the Ride For the Fallen tomorrow (Monday) morning. Be riding my HD from Las Vegas to Arlington National Cemetery with the Coast to Coast Foundation. CxC is made up of active and former members of the Special Operations Community, who I supported for just over 10 years. We raise funds and send Vets to get treatment for TBI's and much more. Additionally we work to assist Gold Start Families, raise awareness and provide a confidential place for Vets to talk about what they've been through. I am proud to say we have put 84 through treatment so far.

The motto of Ride For the Fallen is Celebrate, Remember and Honor and we do just that. Every year we do just that for a few selected SOF who fell in combat. This year we have two Gold Start Family Members joining us for the ride. One who lost a son and another who lost her husband. It is very humbling to have them with us. It's great to see them smile and laugh.

It's a very personal thing for me. I went to great lengths to protect those I supported as best I could. My goal was to insure they all came home and I hung it out pretty far and did some truly sketchy sh1t to accomplish that. Sadly I lost five in combat. That mission continues for me and I've learned that the clock is ticking for many who have returned. At least twice a year I am notified that someone has ended their life. It's heartbreaking and it makes me mad, so my mission continues.

If you're along the route, please come out and join us. Or you can follow along via Instagram @cxcfoundation Here's the link to our website if you want to read up on more of what we do. https://coastxcoast.org/

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-N6wKWRb/0/d7a5ebe2/XL/i-N6wKWRb-XL.png

All dressed up and ready to roll!
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-TwvtPQ5/0/76b7bddf/XL/i-TwvtPQ5-XL.jpg

Combat Veterans of America, Las Vegas Chapter met and escorted us into Las Vegas.

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-ppWcczR/0/de993bf1/L/i-ppWcczR-L.jpg

:captain:

WOW, that's quite a group, the things they have been through :military:

[colorado80439]

Any updates?

[Spiffav8]

I sold it. After a lot of thought, I just don't have it in me to build another car to the level of the last one. I am debating on getting a C6 Z06 and turning it into a track car or finding another 1st gen and doing a track style build. Time will tell.

[WSSix]

Sorry to hear that, Curtis. I know it would have been great. It takes so much time and effort though that I can easily understand your decision.

[Spiffav8]

Sorry to hear that, Curtis. I know it would have been great. It takes so much time and effort though that I can easily understand your decision.

Meh...less stress. I'm still tempted. Though if I do go down the rabbit hole again, I'm just sending it to Brycen. It's the easy button and I kinda like easy these days. I just have to dial in on if I want a badass PT car or a track car.

[DBasher]

Brycen building a PT car would be phenomenal no doubt. I’d suggest buying a cheap track car and see if you enjoy being on track. I have my BMW e30 which cost very little and is a hoot on track. It’s not for everyone and maybe it’ll help you decide which direction to go. Vintage track cars are hard to keep street able, PT cars are, as you know, fun on the street but maybe not track friendly.
🍻

[Spiffav8]

Brycen building a PT car would be phenomenal no doubt. I’d suggest buying a cheap track car and see if you enjoy being on track. I have my BMW e30 which cost very little and is a hoot on track. It’s not for everyone and maybe it’ll help you decide which direction to go. Vintage track cars are hard to keep street able, PT cars are, as you know, fun on the street but maybe not track friendly.
🍻

You're not wrong! I go back and forth between PT car and Track Car. The more I kick it around a PT car I could autocross now and then would probably fit best. If I go that route, it won't be to the level of the last one. (I do miss it)

I have talked with the guys at G-Speed and a few other track car builders. Any build is a balance and I'm doing my best to approach it from a "smart money" view. Though, smart money wouldn't be a race car. I've look at the C5 & C6 platforms for a potential track car. I suppose I could build one that's a blend of both kinda like a PT car. Just not as cool.

I have to admit, I miss picking on the average Corvette out here in the 67. :lol::guns:

[WSSix]

The C5 Z06 is serious smart money for an occasional track toy. You can get into a great one for mid 20k. It'd put a C6 GS with the manual right behind it since those had dry sump oiling and don't typically command the price of a C6 Z06.

[Spiffav8]

The C5 Z06 is serious smart money for an occasional track toy. You can get into a great one for mid 20k. It'd put a C6 GS with the manual right behind it since those had dry sump oiling and don't typically command the price of a C6 Z06.

You're not wrong!