Woo Hoo It's Started!

[tones2SS]

Great progress. Looking good.

[waynieZ]

SWEET ! It looks great' nice work Chad ...

[ccracin]

I finally have some more pictures to post. I ended up putting a bunch more tacks on the firewall before we pulled it back off the chassis to do the final welding.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-02-04_12-59-26_725.jpg

Once we got it off the chassis, we turned it up on it's back so that I could do all horizontal welds. This also let me do alot of weld finishing on the bottom of the chassis.

Before anymore welding or grinding.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-02-04_15-39-53_168.jpg


Here is the firewall all welded in with the transition to the original cowl sheet metal initially finished. A little more touch up and it will be ready for the body man.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-03-05_19-18-02_439.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-03-05_19-18-40_893.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-03-05_19-18-17_176.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-03-05_19-18-48_579.jpg

These next couple are the new trans tunnel and floor pieces all ground and sanded. Again a little touch up and it will be ready for the body man.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-03-05_19-17-25_900.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-03-05_19-17-33_197.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-03-05_19-17-41_431.jpg

I've been trying very hard to make these welds "disappear", but welding new metal to this old stamped floor pan, firewall, cowl etc. is very difficult. I have been finding that the old metal shrinks and moves much easier than the new. All in all I am happy. it shouldn't take much filler to smooth all this out.

As always any comments or suggestions good or bad are welcome. Thanks for looking!

[Autokraft]

Looks great Chad! :cheers:

[214Chevy]

I like it. Once painted, I don't think those welds will be as noticeable. Looking good!!:thumbsup: :thumbsup:

[Garage Dog 65]

Looks great Chad ! Moving right along !!

Catch ya in Indy in a couple weeks !

Jim

[waynieZ]

It looks good to me chad, nice work.

[454SSguy]

How have I missed this thread. Looks great, like the metal work for sure, wish I could do something like that. :cool:

[motorscot]

Holy Cow Batman, how long is this going to take?

We meet you at PSU for lunch almost 16 MONTHS ago, you start teasing me about an LS motor for Chops' truck and this is all you've got done.....you're killin' me smalls ;)

Seriously, it looks great. I can't wait to see it finished. Say Hey to Chops and Carol for me

Later, Scott

[DFRESH]

Dude, that is sweet! Major props for the work that you have already accomplished. I would love to have the skills you've got---looking forward to seeing the rest of it come together bro!

Doug

[ccracin]

Holy Cow Batman, how long is this going to take?

We meet you at PSU for lunch almost 16 MONTHS ago, you start teasing me about an LS motor for Chops' truck and this is all you've got done.....you're killin' me smalls ;)

Seriously, it looks great. I can't wait to see it finished. Say Hey to Chops and Carol for me

Later, Scott

I know, Right! Slow going having to make most things. Glad you checked it out. Spend some time on this site and you will see some cool stuff. Good people too! Have a great Easter, and say hello to Mom and Dad!

[ccracin]

Looks great Chad! :cheers:

I like it. Once painted, I don't think those welds will be as noticeable. Looking good!!:thumbsup: :thumbsup:

Looks great Chad ! Moving right along !!

Catch ya in Indy in a couple weeks !

Jim

It looks good to me chad, nice work.

How have I missed this thread. Looks great, like the metal work for sure, wish I could do something like that. :cool:

Dude, that is sweet! Major props for the work that you have already accomplished. I would love to have the skills you've got---looking forward to seeing the rest of it come together bro!

Doug

Thanks guys! I appreciate the kind words. It helps keep us rolling. Sometimes you walk in the shop flip the lights on and say " Holy .... What did we get into? ". But, it's so cool seeing things come together. :cheers:

[R.A.D]

very nice

[ccracin]

More progress has been made, although it has been difficult. Summer makes it tough to get in the shop and work. Several things have happened since I posted last. The transmission has been ordered. As usual we did not order what we had intended to. The truck was originally going to have a 4L80E in it. Well.......after doing some research and having discussions with Steve at Twist Machine, we decided to go with a 4L70E. Basically it comes down to control and speed at which the transmission shifts. The 60/65/70 based transmissions will execute the shift faster than the 80 according to Steve. Without getting into details here there are also differences in other parts of the control scheme. In the end it came down to what I mentioned about shift speed as well as less overall weight. In the end, we are getting a Stage 4 4L70E with Compu-Shift controller from Gearstar as well as a Shrifter Paddle Shifter and Muscle Drive Billet Converter from Steve at Twist Machine. Steve is going to handle the programming for the package as well. This thing should be a hoot! I can't say enough good so far for these 2 vendors. We have received the Shrifter and Converter and the tranny should be done in a few weeks. The tranny change allowed another addition. All along one of our primary design criteria was to not allow anything to hang below the chassis of the truck. Well, that has been a challenge since we also wanted to run 3" exhaust. The one compromise we had made was that an X or H pipe was not going to be possible in a reasonable manor. That has now changed, so we cut up a perfectly good setup to add the H pipe. Pics are below. I think it will definitely help some in performance as well as sound. We have contacted a friend of ours about doing some TIG welding for us. I have been spending too much time finish welding and not enough time designing and fabricating. Hopefully with our limited time in the shop this will help move things along. Well, this week is Columbus so we will be back at it after we bake on the asphalt a while. Thanks for Looking!

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-06-30_21-57-15_269.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-07-01_16-15-11_28.jpg

[GregWeld]

Pretty dang kool Chad!!


I like your style.... it's okay to make changes! It's hot rodding!

[waynieZ]

Better to change it now then be unhappy with it later. As always nice work.

[ccracin]

Look what just showed up on the loading dock! :D :yes:

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/Gearstar.jpg

[Garage Dog 65]

Wow, that was fast !!!

:thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:

Now bust that mother open and post some pics already !

:rofl:

Jim

[waynieZ]

Wow, that was fast !!!

:thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:

Now bust that mother open and post some pics already !

:rofl:

Jim

X2 give um up!!

[ccracin]

Ok, here are all the goodies that were packed in the crate!

4L70E Stage 4 Trans! Keeping the bag on for now!

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-07-11_19-17-00_17.jpg

Compu Shift Trans Controller!

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-07-11_19-18-31_521.jpg

Hayden Trans Cooler!

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-07-11_19-17-51_316.jpg

Lokar dipstick!

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-07-11_19-17-38_709.jpg

I have to say Gearstar did an excellent job packaging the trans for shipment! So far, a first class experience!

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-07-11_12-42-32_719.jpg

[ccracin]

It has been a great weekend for parts! While at the Columbus Goodguys show, we visited the Ring Brothers! They make a nice product! Check it!

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-07-11_19-57-26_270.jpg

All we bought was a set of hinges and Jim and Mike both spent a half hour talking with us. That may not seem like much, but they were in the middle of winning SMOY as well. They are top notch for sure! :thumbsup:

To augment the Gearstar trans. we hooked up with Steve at Twist Machine and got one of his Shrifter Paddle Shifters and Muscle Drive Torque converters. He is also going to handle the programming of the Compu-Shift. A manual trans wasn't an option for us, but this deal should still be hot!

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-07-11_19-54-14_903.jpg

Don't you just love new parts? :woot:

[Garage Dog 65]

Beautiful stuff ! It's like Christmas in July !!

Jim

[ccracin]

Well, what was supposed to be a cool milestone in the project has turned into one of the biggest disappointments. It is time to move on to the fabrication of the front end of the truck. Mount the Rad, coolers, make close out panels etc, etc... So we un-box all the new Tri-Plus panels and bolt it on. Everything was fitting OK (As far as repop stuff goes) until we got to the hood. It is a brand new 2" Cowl Induction hood from Tri-Plus. It is JUNK! Completely the wrong contour on the leading edge. We are contacting the vendor today (not from this site) to see if he will help out. The problem is we bought it over 2 years ago. This is the first time it's been out of the box other than opening the flap when we picked it up to make sure there was no shipping damage. Needless to say, we are dejected. I don't mind cutting and slicing, but this would be rebuilding 1/4 of the hood. Anyone had any better luck with another brand hood! Any help or advice is greatly appreciated! I'll let the pics do the rest of the talking!

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-07-30_21-26-57_95.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-07-30_21-24-15_999.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-07-30_21-53-30_790.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-07-30_21-24-50_19.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-07-30_21-53-37_805.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-07-30_21-53-49_459.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-07-30_21-24-34_996.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-07-30_21-24-26_303.jpg

[214Chevy]

Bummer Chad!!:mad: :mad: Truck is looking good though!! Keep us posted on the hood issue.

[GregWeld]

Nothing a cut off wheel and some TIG won't fix....

Just sayin' --- thas hot roddin' man....

[HWY Nova]

That's what happens when you buy kit cars/trucks!


--Eric

[ccracin]

Nothing a cut off wheel and some TIG won't fix....

Just sayin' --- thas hot roddin' man....

I'm going to try some other options first, I think! :willy:

That's what happens when you buy kit cars/trucks!


--Eric

Oh, you're a laugh riot! :yes:

[ccracin]

So while we ponder the hood puzzle, we decided to move on to getting the radiator mounted so that we can mount the rad support and leave it there for a while. As we started looking and measuring the REPRODUCTION rad support, you guessed it, things just don't fit. The vertical rails that the rad lays against were different heights. Out comes the body saw and off they come. Bend up some new ones and here yah go!

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-08-08_20-09-45_49.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-08-08_20-09-29_245.jpg

The factory lower saddles are too narrow for the new PRC dual pass LS radiator. Off they came and I fabbed up these new saddles and installed them on the rad support.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-08-02_21-29-18_745.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-08-08_21-39-45_584.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-08-08_21-39-52_622.jpg

These saddles and the new vertical rails will be lined with shore 50 rubber so we use paint sticks to get the fits.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-08-08_21-40-01_354.jpg

Here is the rad sitting in the new mounts.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-08-08_21-52-06_9.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-08-08_21-51-32_431.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-08-08_21-57-51_414.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-08-08_21-58-00_275.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-08-08_21-51-53_548.jpg

So, the next trip to the shop will be devoted to making the upper retainers. I'm trying to decide between steel and aluminum. They will be covered in the end so we will see.

Thanks for looking!

[ccracin]

All the mounts are now complete for the rad. It seems I forgot to take pics of the upper mounts. I will fix that this week. We added some lower tabs to retain the rad laterally. All this will be lined with rubber to protect the aluminum rad.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-08-20_21-01-03_747.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-08-20_21-00-48_579.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-08-20_21-00-40_523.jpg

:lateral:

[ccracin]

We are in the process of getting a new hood for the truck. After talking with several shops that have used these aftermarket cowl induction hoods, they all say none fit right but ours is terrible compared to those. The next one we get is going to be checked on a truck before we get it.

While this is going on we decided to move back to the bed and take care of something that has bothered us for a while. When we modified the factory REPRODUCTION wheel tubs to widen them, we noticed that the vertical flat side of the tubs were significantly distorted from the stamping process. At first we were going to leave it, but things are turning out too nice to do that. So here is what we started with:

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-08-29_20-20-30_45.jpg

Those shims are just over 1/8" each. First we tried to shrink the center of the panel with heat to lift it. FAIL Then we tried a shrinking hammer and dolly. FAIL Then out came the cutoff wheel! No turning back now!

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-08-22_21-41-17_4.jpg

As soon as I made those cuts the pie shapes sprung out 3/8". After quite a bit of hammer and dolly work, I clamped it all down and started to weld it back together.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-08-29_21-59-01_915.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-08-30_20-45-53_997.jpg

After quite a bit of grinding and more hammer and dolly work with some heat shrinking thrown in we now have tub sides that can be easily body worked with minimal filler. I gotta say this was a first for me. Flat panels are definitely a challenge to weld and keep flat. All in all I am pleased and best of all my Dad (The Owner) is very happy!

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-08-23_21-36-50_713.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-08-23_21-37-14_858.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-08-22_21-41-26_883.jpg

Now time to go enjoy a Labor Day Picnic with the family!

[ccracin]

Hopefully the new hood will be delivered today. While this has been going on, we have continued our work on the rear of the truck. I decided to spend some time installing the rear rolled pan. This is meant to be a bolt in item, but the only fastener locations provided were along the upper edge so that it can bolt to the rear main cross sill. The rest would just hang in space. I didn't particularly care for that so I decided to add some tabs to the lower corners and then gap the panels a bit better. Well, alot better. It didn't fit very well. The pics I took of the tabs etc. didn't turn out for some reason. I will have to go back and get those again. Anyway, here is the what the rolled pan fit looks like now. Thanks for looking!

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-09-23_12-42-54_408.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-09-23_12-42-37_870.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-09-23_12-28-51_297.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-09-23_12-28-38_398.jpg

[HWY Nova]

Chad,

Great work...... AS USUAL!



--Eric

[GregWeld]

Nice!


Hey -- Did you ever get the commuter car up and running with the LS6??


:cheers:

[ccracin]

Chad,

Great work...... AS USUAL!



--Eric

Thanks Buddy!

Nice!


Hey -- Did you ever get the commuter car up and running with the LS6??


:cheers:

Thanks ! Yea, I thought we had talked since then. Got it in and running. I probably have about 5000 miles on it. It is running great. I think I am leaving some power on the table without a tune since it is the LS1 computer. But, it is still stout! :cheers:

[waynieZ]

Chad the roll pan looks good. Progress is good no matter what end of the truck its on.

[Sieg]

Good stuff Chad! :thumbsup:

[ccracin]

So first let me say, I've found another one of the Good Guys in this car world. I also have a build thread over at 67-72 Chevy trucks. One of the site vendors over there saw the pics of our hood issue and contacted me.
His name is DeWayne Morgan and he owns Nsane Hotrodz in White Pine , TN.
http://www.nsanehotrodz.com/
He stepped up and offered to try and get us new hood that he could fit on a truck he is building to check it out before he shipped it. We took him up on the offer an received our new hood a couple weeks ago. It definitely fit the truck he has alot better than the hood we had on our truck. He took the time to send pictures and all. He absolutely went above and beyond! Unfortunately, when we got the hood, it wasn't much better on our truck than what we had. Some of the issue is our fenders too. Those will be getting massaged too. :rolleyes: So here is what the new one looks like and where we are going with it.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/Misc/2012-10-03_18-48-10_890_zps7a317bdd.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/Misc/2012-10-03_18-48-57_526_zpsc6252eac.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/Misc/2012-10-03_18-48-35_663_zpsbcdcbf0b.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/Misc/2012-10-03_18-48-24_539_zps678150e6.jpg

Knowing that simple alignment just wasn't going to cut it, out comes the cutting tools!

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/Misc/2012-10-03_19-59-31_919_zps98079d4b.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/Misc/2012-10-03_19-59-22_961_zps1091532e.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/Misc/2012-10-03_20-15-51_752_zps0c81e49d.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/Misc/2012-10-03_20-16-07_883_zps70fee66a.jpg

This has alot to do with the issues!

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/Misc/2012-10-03_20-18-44_522_zps21a570cd.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/Misc/2012-10-03_20-18-56_915_zps2ec4b68c.jpg

Continued------

[ccracin]

After finally being able to use my size to my advantage and persuading the inner structure to fit like it should, it's looking better.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/Misc/2012-10-03_20-53-04_145_zpsd89d2036.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/Misc/2012-10-03_20-53-34_389_zps73f10240.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/Misc/2012-10-03_20-53-18_613_zps304cfc28.jpg

Te next step is to look at the hood skin. Preliminarily, it looks like the body saw and welder are going to be called into action again! Stay tuned!

[GregWeld]

Nice work!

..... and that's what hot rodding is all about!


Guys can whine and boo too.... but it's easier and faster to just pick up a tool and start hot rodding the stuff... 'cause it ain't going to get fixed all by itself! :cheers: :D

[waynieZ]

Chad no one can ever say this truck wasn't home built! Nice job and nice to see some one offer to help you out. Good practice whe nyou come to fix the gaps on my Camaro. LOL

[ccracin]

Chad no one can ever say this truck wasn't home built! Nice job and nice to see some one offer to help you out. Good practice whe nyou come to fix the gaps on my Camaro. LOL

Thanks Wayne! I love doing it, but it is taking forever! :lol: How you doing buddy? I would love to come help you out, but it would be one whale of a commute! If I can help remotely, just lemme know! :thumbsup:

[waynieZ]

Thanks Its a little far for me to come pick you up too. I had a pretty good day got to drive my truck and get out of the house and go to my body guy's shop for an hour. Wow did that feel good, and it something I never thought I'd miss. At least I get to see all the nice work being done here.

[ccracin]

Thanks Its a little far for me to come pick you up too. I had a pretty good day got to drive my truck and get out of the house and go to my body guy's shop for an hour. Wow did that feel good, and it something I never thought I'd miss. At least I get to see all the nice work being done here.


Great stuff Wayne! That is awesome. Don't worry you'll be back at it in no time. Get yourself right first, then it's all fun from there! Keep an eye on me here, make sure I'm not building a POS! :thumbsup:

[ccracin]

First the typical news, another night (actually 2) spent fixing a new part. After mocking up the front end more precisely we found that one fender required a half inch worth of shims on one side and none on the other. Not good! Well we found that the new rad support was basically shaped like a mild propeller! So it was time to get serious. :lol: Talk about using what you have available, check it out.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-10-08_22-03-49_28_zpsc1dbbedb.jpg

A bottle jack, 2x4's and a large dude hanging on the end. I couldn't hang and take the picture, sorry.

Now the good news, I was doing a happy dance.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/Misc/snoopy_zps6787f545.jpg

If anyone has paid attention to my whining and moaning about the hood and how bad it fits this is major progress and I haven't cut the skin of the hood. (YET) This is all from a combination of hammer and dolly work and wait for it.....................having my Dad stand on the hood! Nothing but Hi-Tech for us! :lol: Results speak for themselves, we are getting there.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-10-10_21-37-36_59_zps98f6eeaf.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-10-10_21-38-05_655_zps2f44d70f.jpg

The front of the hood has been formed poorly and I won't be able to get away without cutting it, but it is much less than I thought I was going to have to do. It was a good night in the garage! :thumbsup:

:cheers:

[Garage Dog 65]

Stop using your dad as a shop tool !!!! Have a little respect man !


Great progress and nice outta the box thinking !

:thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:

Just lacks finishing...


(I'll standby for the obligatory Your Porsche Is Crap comment ...)


Jim

[ccracin]

Stop using your dad as a shop tool !!!! Have a little respect man !


Great progress and nice outta the box thinking !

:thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:

Just lacks finishing...


(I'll standby for the obligatory Your Porsche Is Crap comment ...)


Jim


Lacks finishing!!!!!!! Why I ought a!!!!!!!!!!! :mad:

:wow:

[waynieZ]

Good idea just don't do like my brother and I did trying to steam bend an ash keel for his boat. One of the 2x4s shifted and we ended up with some roof work. Shot through the rotted roof of the garage. Yehaaaaa!
Nice work.

[GregWeld]

In the "old days" we'd lay a 4 foot 2X4 on edge on the hood/fender gap and whack it with a big hammer once or twice.... flattens it right out.


Never thought about using my Dad Tool that way!


:thumbsup:

[ccracin]

In the "old days" we'd lay a 4 foot 2X4 on edge on the hood/fender gap and whack it with a big hammer once or twice.... flattens it right out.


Never thought about using my Dad Tool that way!


:thumbsup:

I thought about the 2X4 and hammer, but the way my luck has been lately, I would miss the board and have a whole new set of challenges ahead of me! :lol:

[ccracin]

So out comes the trusty 4 1/2" grinder, well one of the FIVE with a wiz wheel and off I go. After much thought, laying out, eyeballing, rethinking, asking Dad "are you sure you want me to do this?" off comes the front formed edge of the hood. I guess I should say poorly formed edge of the hood.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-10-17_21-02-48_516_zps95786f09.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-10-17_21-02-54_250_zps218dd020.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-10-18_19-31-16_788_zpsc39d7f49.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-10-18_22-02-42_793_zpsecfee755.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-10-18_22-02-56_952_zpse4a07319.jpg

It's starting to look like this hood actually does belong on this truck. After some tweaking, hammer and dolly work and cutting it in half, the front edge is also starting to fit. Note to all out there, remember your gap holders. Things fit very poorly when you do not account for panel gaps. Notice the paint sticks below. How do you think that fit without them? I almost has a heart attack thinking "I know I didn't cut that much off?! :willy:

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-10-18_22-00-57_916_zps542ac98f.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-10-18_22-01-26_256_zps5e6c9ebe.jpg

This week we will reattach it permanently and see if I cause myself some more educational projects! Till next time!

[HWY Nova]

When does C&D's Customs open up???!?!?!

C&D's = Chad's and Dad's.




--Eric

[ccracin]

When does C&D's Customs open up???!?!?!

C&D's = Chad's and Dad's.




--Eric

Is this called foreshadowing? :D

[GregWeld]

Hot rodding at it's most basic level.... I love it. Cut to cure! :willy: :lol: :woot:

[ccracin]

Addition is definitely better than subtraction. Started putting the front nose back on the hood. I'm liking it so far! here's some pics, everybody likes pics right?

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-10-25_19-44-04_546.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-10-25_20-14-10_272.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-10-25_20-14-23_866.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-10-25_21-00-50_942.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-10-25_21-01-10_174.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-10-25_21-38-31_407.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-10-25_21-38-58_310.jpg

I would think that should be close enough for a good bodyman? Yes/No?

Stay tuned! :cheers:

[Sales@Dutchboys]

Looking good guys!:thumbsup:

[waynieZ]

It looks great Chad, Nice work.
Is that one of those new fangled driving lights in the grill??? lol

[ccracin]

Looking good guys!:thumbsup:

Speaking of good bodymen! :unibrow: Hypothetically speaking:lol: , would this type of thing be something you could work with?

[Ron in SoCal]

I would think that should be close enough for a good bodyman? Yes/No?

Stay tuned! :cheers:

I'd say so! Looks great Chad :thumbsup:

[ccracin]

It looks great Chad, Nice work.
Is that one of those new fangled driving lights in the grill??? lol

Dangit Wayne, I forgot to get that off before I took the picture. I can't keep anything a secret. Now I just need to know where to mount the generator to run it? :lol:

Seriously, I gotta tell you about that light. It is a 30 year old MAC light and still has the original bulb! :wow:

[ccracin]

I'd say so! Looks great Chad :thumbsup:

Thanks Ron! I appreciate it!

[Garage Dog 65]

You're getting pretty good at slicing and dicing the sheetmetal !

Nice work !!

:thumbsup:

Jim

[ccracin]

You're getting pretty good at slicing and dicing the sheetmetal !

Nice work !!

:thumbsup:

Jim
Thanks Jim. I figure since I'm getting better at it, I would go ahead and do some more just for good measure. I'm trying to finish up this hood fitment project. After getting the front edge tacked back on, we put the inner structure back in.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-10-30_20-10-05_980.jpg

After we put the structure back in, we found that it too had the wrong profile. After looking at it and doing some hammer and dolly work, we decided that to make the front hood to grill gap good more material was going to need to be added. Since this is the case, no more cutting. I can fix the rest with the added material. We tacked a 3/16" rod to the front edge. This will allow us to grind the gap properly and even everything up.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-11-02_19-37-22_632.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-11-02_19-37-42_792.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-11-02_19-37-30_334.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-11-02_20-21-28_444.jpg

Now that the round stock is tacked on it's time to finish weld the sheet metal front edge of the hood before we take it off again to weld up the round stock.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-11-02_22-33-19_510.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-11-02_22-32-26_63.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-11-02_22-32-44_949.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-11-04_13-18-34_940.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-11-02_22-33-31_180.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-11-02_22-32-36_527.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-11-04_13-18-41_677.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-11-04_13-18-51_215.jpg

Sorry for so many pictures, but the fit was so poor before I am excited at the fit now. As always, comments good and bad are welcomed! Thanks for looking. :cheers:

[214Chevy]

.....Sorry for so many pictures, but the fit was so poor before I am excited at the fit now.

Chad, are you kidding me? We love pics!!:yes: Keep them coming! Hood fab looks great. Good job!!:thumbsup: :thumbsup:

[waynieZ]

Chad, are you kidding me? We love pics!!:yes: Keep them coming! Hood fab looks great. Good job!!:thumbsup: :thumbsup:

I agree nice work and More Pictures!

[GregWeld]

NOW WE'RE HOT RODDIN' !!!


:cheers:

[Sieg]

Until yesterday I used to get uncomfortable every time this thread appeared on new posts............

Great work! Keep it UP!

[Garage Dog 65]

The guy should get the award for perseverance !!!

Way to turn them lemons into lemonade Chad !

Never surrender Bro !

:thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:

Jim

[ccracin]

The guy should get the award for perseverance !!!

Way to turn them lemons into lemonade Chad !

Never surrender Bro !

:thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:

Jim

Down with the ship! :captain:

[ccracin]

If you remember from the previous pictures, the hood to fender gaps were also horrible. Now that the hood is close, it is time to address the side gaps. You guessed it, the solution is to cut the BRAND NEW fenders and weld them back together. I would really love to try something else, but it has to be done. Here's today's progress.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_1931.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_1930.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_1933.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_1932.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_1940.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_1939.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_1941.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_1942.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_1943.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_1944.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_1947.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_1948.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_1955.jpg

Thanks for looking!

[waynieZ]

Wow I guess the gap was off! The two gaps look almost the same size on both sides of the metal you opened up. Very Nice.

[motorscot]

Seriously, when are you and Chops going to quit playing around and actually get some work done...:rolleyes:

You have without a doubt learned more building this truck than anything you have ever done. Keep up the good work!

[ccracin]

Seriously, when are you and Chops going to quit playing around and actually get some work done...:rolleyes:

You have without a doubt learned more building this truck than anything you have ever done. Keep up the good work!

I know, SLACKERS! :lol: I can't disagree with that statement. It's been the most fun and frustrating all at the same time.

[ccracin]

I finished the passenger side fender, well somewhat. The front points on the hood and fender need more work when the hood comes back off. The metal is puckered from the original stamping process and needs reworked. That's why the very front of the gap narrows up a bit. Now on to the driver's side.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-11-13_21-36-21_464.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-11-13_21-34-05_324.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-11-13_21-34-38_694.jpg

Thanks for looking!

[Sales@Dutchboys]

Looking good Chad! You and your dad are doing an awesome job!:thumbsup: hope all is well! Tell your dad I said hey.

[ccracin]

Looking good Chad! You and your dad are doing an awesome job!:thumbsup: hope all is well! Tell your dad I said hey.

Thanks Paul! Will do!

[ccracin]

I got the drivers side fender finished up last week.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-11-17_17-11-16_896.jpg

After that, I decided to mount the new Ringbrothers billet hinges and see how she opens and closes.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-11-19_21-35-37_754.jpg

Well guess what, yep it doesn't line up. Surprisingly, I am not shocked. The silver lines are where the hinges hit the hood. You can see the nutserts in the hood. Not even close!

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-11-19_19-11-06_892.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-11-19_19-11-20_327.jpg

After measuring a factory hood, and comparing the hinges to factory ones, it turns out that the fenders are to blame. The mounting pads for the hinges are not formed correctly. If you are using factory stamped hinges, you could probably make them work. But, when you are using a stiff precision piece like the Ringbrothers hinges it's got to be better. We spent 3 hours just bending and tweaking the mounting pads on the fenders so the hinges go up and down straight and on plane. Then after a lot of thought and staring we decided the fix was to move the nutserts in the hood. Right or wrong off we went! Out with the old.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-11-20_21-14-05_199.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-11-20_21-13-45_100.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-11-20_21-13-56_715.jpg

I then made new plate that I welded nuts to the back side of in the new locations. Clecos hold everything in place while marking, drilling, and welding.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-11-20_21-48-48_834.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-11-20_21-48-02_129.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-11-21_22-08-09_80.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-11-21_22-07-52_46.jpg

Done, hopefully this weekend we'll see if she bolts up. It was too late to continue last night. Hopefully the front clip saga is coming to an end!

[ccracin]

As a distraction from the hood saga, we got one of the new tires in for fit up. This the tire we are going to use on the rear and hopefully (fingers crossed) the front. Nitto NT05 315-35-20. I likey!

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-11-20_19-31-11_890.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-11-20_19-52-29_907.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-11-20_19-52-09_913.jpg

This is a big decision for my Dad. He really doesn't like the thin sidewall. We are going to leave it hang there for a bit and let him contemplate it. What does everyone think? There is nothing out there that will give him the sidewall and performance we want. This was a compromise. Thanks for any input you give!

[syborg tt]

Looks Awesome !!!

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-11-20_19-52-09_913.jpg

This is a big decision for my Dad. He really doesn't like the thin sidewall. We are going to leave it hang there for a bit and let him contemplate it. What does everyone think? There is nothing out there that will give him the sidewall and performance we want. This was a compromise. Thanks for any input you give!

[WSSix]

Looks good!

[GregWeld]

Sorry --- Gotta say it..... WAY TOO SMALL

[ccracin]

The hood opens and closes. Go figure! :lol:

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-11-24_14-33-46_404.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-11-24_14-33-52_544.jpg

Now that the hood opens and closes and fits well enough for the bodywork it is time to move forward. The truck now steers with with the sterring wheel for the first time in about 4 years. We put the steering column in and installed the u-joints with DD shaft. We did this is an effort to check the front end for tire clearance. As much as I would like to, the 315-35-20 is not going to work on the front. It is too big in diameter. If this were an all out race truck and we didn't need to worry about inner fenders etc, they would work. In the end this is still a street truck that will have a "finished" look. So, it's on to a 26"-27" tall tire. Here are a couple pics.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-11-24_20-23-56_82.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-11-24_20-23-44_817.jpg

Thanks for looking!

[214Chevy]

That hood gave you the blues, huh? Nonetheless, looking good. I bought a NOS one for mine about 4 years ago and I'm gonna s#!t a brick if I gotta put a whole lot of work into it.

[ccracin]

That hood gave you the blues, huh? Nonetheless, looking good. I bought a NOS one for mine about 4 years ago and I'm gonna s#!t a brick if I gotta put a whole lot of work into it.

I can tell you the work done to get the hood hinges to bolt up was a problem with the fenders and not the hood. If you can find rust free oem, DO IT!

Thanks for the kind words! :thumbsup:

[ccracin]

Sorry --- Gotta say it..... WAY TOO SMALL

OD or Sidewall?

I think he is leaning toward a change. I think we are sticking with the same O.D., but using a smaller wheel. Now he is thinking a 295-45-18 on the back. Same O.D., but 1" more sidewall. Front will probably be 295-35-18. We'll see. There was a lot of head scratching and math going on last night! :lol:

[ccracin]

Just wanted to say in this post how nice the Ring Brothers Hinges are so far. After I fixed all the mounting points on the sheet metal, man are these things smooth. They really have a great feel compared to stock. You can also stop the hood wherever you want and it will stay. Check it out.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-12-05_19-39-48_440.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-12-05_19-40-07_541.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-12-05_19-40-26_397.jpg

:thumbsup:

[214Chevy]

I can tell you the work done to get the hood hinges to bolt up was a problem with the fenders and not the hood. If you can find rust free oem, DO IT!

Thanks for the kind words! :thumbsup:

Well, I should be safe then because I've got both, left and right, NOS fenders too. :unibrow: Looking good sir. Hood looks good closed and the gaps are on point too.

[ccracin]

It's been a while, but I have done some work. Christmas and New Years took it's toll on progress. I just couldn't pull myself away from my twin girls over the Holidays! :)

It looks like after more fitting, moving, turning, and measuring that I care to think about we are going with a 26.65" diameter front tire. Most likely a 275-35-19. With this tire size and moving the the front tire up a full 3" and turning full lock it's going to take a custom inner fender well. OF COURSE IT IS! First comes clearancing the inner structure of the fender. Then I started with the stock inner fender for some of the more complicated curvature to save time. I'll then make the rest. Here is the beginnings.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-12-07_19-14-59_336.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2012-12-07_19-15-30_853.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2013-01-04_20-28-54_896.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2013-01-04_20-29-06_473.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2013-01-11_21-58-03_164.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2013-01-11_21-58-28_679.jpg

We'll keep plugging away!

[GregWeld]

Chad -- you're a regular master.... (okay I won't finish that the way I wanted to)........ Craftsman!!!



Nice work! It's looking really good!

[ohsolowtrent]

looking good! You better get busy racing season is around the corner.

[ccracin]

Chad -- you're a regular master.... (okay I won't finish that the way I wanted to)........ Craftsman!!!



Nice work! It's looking really good!
:thankyou: I think!:)

looking good! You better get busy racing season is around the corner.

Thanks Trent, I think this season is out. I'd be happy to step into your monster if you need help! :idea:

[ccracin]

Who knew you could have so many hours in a fender well. Ugh! :bang: I'm continuing to make progress, but it is going sloooooooooow. We are really trying to get a full 3" of wheel travel and be able to turn lock to lock with no rubs. We are close. I can now see why most trucks being built don't have inner fenders. Here's some pics.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2013-01-14_21-19-06_716.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2013-01-16_19-50-12_126.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2013-01-16_21-03-55_83.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2013-01-19_22-13-46_518.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2013-01-19_22-14-10_384.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2013-01-19_22-14-20_566.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2013-01-19_22-14-36_178.jpg

As always, thanks for looking. :D

[motorscot]

It's looking good Chad. I have to ask, and I'm sure that yins have already checked, but....how's clearance at actual ride height and loaded?

I have had issues in the past with my motorcyle and clearance issues didn't exist until the suspension was compressed. As tight as it looks in the pics, I would think it would get tighter still on the road

BTW, did you ever pick up a stud gun?

[XLexusTech]

Nice work! what bearing is that on the steering column?

[ccracin]

It's looking good Chad. I have to ask, and I'm sure that yins have already checked, but....how's clearance at actual ride height and loaded?

I have had issues in the past with my motorcyle and clearance issues didn't exist until the suspension was compressed. As tight as it looks in the pics, I would think it would get tighter still on the road

BTW, did you ever pick up a stud gun?

Oh, Scott, you should know me better than that! The pictures are actually with the wheel at a simulated 3" of compression travel. At ride height, I have a mile of room. It's at max compression and full steering lock that I am working on. If you look at the second to last picture, see the square tubing where the coilover would go? The upper hole is ride height and the hole that is being used is full compression. But good call, I thought you forgot everything about 4 wheels! :lmao: Thanks Buddy!

[ccracin]

Nice work! what bearing is that on the steering column?

Thanks much. It is an Ididit swivel mount. Check here:

http://www.ididitinc.com/accessory_pages/floor_mounts.htm :thumbsup:

[NovaBlue71]

Looking great Chad. Say hi to your Dad for me . :thumbsup: Joe

[ccracin]

Thanks Joe! Will do. :thumbsup:

[Garage Dog 65]

Who needs all this fancy metal work !

Just use some A/B exterior grade plywood - screw it together - spray some raptor on the thing and be done with it....


:lostmarbles: :lostmarbles: :lostmarbles:



:lol:

Jim

[ccracin]

Who needs all this fancy metal work !

Just use some A/B exterior grade plywood - screw it together - spray some raptor on the thing and be done with it....


:lostmarbles: :lostmarbles: :lostmarbles:



:lol:

Jim

Oh you are a laugh riot! :warning:

[bonecrrusher]

Chad - your fab skills are awesome!

Keep up the good work.

[ccracin]

Chad - your fab skills are awesome!

Keep up the good work.

Thanks very much! I am sure trying hard! :thankyou:

[ccracin]

It's been a while, but I wanted to prove that we are still working. Life has been busy, but we are still forging ahead. There has been a ton of planning mocking up etc. on the inner fender well. Check out the progress, we are really happy so far!

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2678412f3850b31d6254ef5c7f83efdc_zps257c7fca.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2071e9b6733aad6981398973da6633f4_zps30cc5b8f.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/57650e97184877465b1e95a7b53a5337_zpse3fda615.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/5db3d724564604649312172f8c9218e2_zpsc86f690a.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/a06bf7dc5985ec8d74189d28f32bba86_zps0205e1ad.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/6f5dea02f2cd7bc1f280178b003ae3be_zpsf1ccb89f.jpg

The panel cover will be fastened with rivnuts for a clean look. Thanks for looking, as always! :)

[waynieZ]

It looks good. Its coming along nice.

[ccracin]

Well here it is, the drivers side front inner fender well ready for final welding and metal finishing. This took way too long. Hopefully the second will go much faster. Anyway here it is. Not much of original is left.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/e8974b8dc94bd99819e075c57c1744c7_zpsd4f32ee9.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/aaff6cb91fb1353e6c76ed3e210279f1_zps7ca5caeb.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/fe02cda31877b74b6bae27a0138bc38b_zpsaf66fab0.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/1c98f054213ff73be5999a70cacf36ca_zps283f10fb.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/221ac8e091bcd04b22085d306f1f4803_zpsa7ec19a6.jpg

[GregWeld]

Nicely done!

[Ron in SoCal]

That is impressive Chad! Post a mock up pic when you get a chance? :thumbsup:

[intocarss]

:trophy-1302:

[Garage Dog 65]

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/e8974b8dc94bd99819e075c57c1744c7_zpsd4f32ee9.jpg




:idea:

Dang, turn that baby over, fill it with soap and water and you could wash a load of clothes it there !

:lmao:

Nice fab work Mr. Maytag !!!


Jim

[ccracin]

:idea:

Dang, turn that baby over, fill it with soap and water and you could wash a load of clothes it there !

:lmao:

Nice fab work Mr. Maytag !!!


Jim

You're a riot! :guns:

[dug]

Beautiful work on the entire truck. The wheel wells look great and it's given me inspiration. I have to do the same on my chevelle to clear the turbo etc.

:popcorn2: hurry up!

[ccracin]

Nicely done!

Thanks Buddy!

That is impressive Chad! Post a mock up pic when you get a chance? :thumbsup:

Thanks Ron. You mean with the fender well in the truck? I'm going to use it to make the other side. I'll put it back in shortly. This has been a challenge, but I'm starting to get hooked on sheet metal work!

:trophy-1302:

Give me one of those when I'm done! :lol: I can still lose!

Beautiful work on the entire truck. The wheel wells look great and it's given me inspiration. I have to do the same on my chevelle to clear the turbo etc.

:popcorn2: hurry up!

Thanks very much. I'm glad to be inspiration. It's just metal. If you don't like it, cut it back apart! :lol: I know right, we need to kick it in high gear. It's tough, we only work a few hours in the evenings 2 maybe 3 days a week.

[waynieZ]

Awesome fab work!!

[ccracin]

Awesome fab work!!

Thanks Wayne, I hope you on the road to recovery and the garage!

[motorscot]

Looking good Chad. I'm still trying to talk Felicia into Pittsburgh :rolleyes:

[Sieg]

Chad - Looking good! Sheet metal work is tedious and challenging but very rewarding from my limited experience perspective. :thumbsup:

Are you satisfied with the Chicago shears in the picture? What's their max gauge?

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2013-01-04_20-28-54_896.jpg

[ccracin]

Looking good Chad. I'm still trying to talk Felicia into Pittsburgh :rolleyes:

Try harder! I need help!:hairpullout:

[ccracin]

Chad - Looking good! Sheet metal work is tedious and challenging but very rewarding from my limited experience perspective. :thumbsup:

Are you satisfied with the Chicago shears in the picture? What's their max gauge?

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2013-01-04_20-28-54_896.jpg

Thanks man, I really am getting addicted to sheet metal work. I just wish I was better at it.

I like them, you can't beat them for the price and for a home shop. I have been doing mostly 18 and 20 ga. No issues. I have done 16 ga as well with no problem, but not as much and mostly straight cuts. The nice part is you can buy replacement jaws. You don't run out of grunt, you just break the jaws. I was cutting some factory sheet metal and near a bend it got thick and broke the jaw. A few minutes to replace the jaw and I was back going again. I also have the air version. They work just as we'll and are smaller. You can get in tighter spaces with those. So I guess I'm happy! Lol :thumbsup:

[Sieg]

One thing I'm learning about metal working is I don't have nearly enough cutting and manipulating tools and from what I've seen it's impossible to have too many!

Thanks for the feedback, I almost bought the shears at Harbor the other day when I picked up a backup 4.5" Chicago $19.95 grinder. Looks like another trip is in order. :thankyou:

[GregWeld]

One thing I'm learning about metal working is I don't have nearly enough cutting and manipulating tools and from what I've seen it's impossible to have too many!

Thanks for the feedback, I almost bought the shears at Harbor the other day when I picked up a backup 4.5" Chicago $19.95 grinder. Looks like another trip is in order. :thankyou:



If you have 20 tools ---- you need 21......




:lol: :snapout:

[Sieg]

If you have 20 tools ---- you need 21......


:lol: :snapout:

http://s3.amazonaws.com/advrider/mulie.gif

[ccracin]

Ok, so here is a picture of a point I have been waiting for what seems live forever. I couldn't be happier with how these turned out. I was really unsure when we started down this path. Obviously they still need finish welded and smoothed, but now we can start mounting some under hood accessories. A/C/Heater hose routing, coolant overflow, condenser, drier, etc. etc. Another step forward!

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_0018_zpsc5fa46a7.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_0018_zpsc5fa46a7.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_0020_zps41c3750b.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_0020_zps41c3750b.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_0021_zps757419c8.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_0021_zps757419c8.jpg.html)

:thumbsup:

[214Chevy]

Looking damn good Chad. :thumbsup: I'm so jealous of all the love the trucks are getting. Can't wait to get started on mine. Everytime I think of getting rid of it, pics like these make me say "hell no!" It's coming along nicely. Keep the pics coming.

[Rick D]

Chad nice fab work, I really love the C10's maybe ill get one? :hello:

[XLexusTech]

Very cool! niice work

[waynieZ]

Chad nice fab work its looking good.

[motorscot]

Chad gave me a sneak peek of the taillights....SICK!

[Thomo5150]

Great work, just read the full thread, you have convinced me to repair the factory panels I have for my C20......

[fleetus macmullitz]

Awesome Chad. :thumbsup:

Maybe I missed it; is there a rendering?

[ccracin]

Looking damn good Chad. :thumbsup: I'm so jealous of all the love the trucks are getting. Can't wait to get started on mine. Everytime I think of getting rid of it, pics like these make me say "hell no!" It's coming along nicely. Keep the pics coming.

Thanks Marcus. I'd keep it, these things are the next First Gen! Keep telling everyone that, the values will climb! HA. :headspin:

Chad nice fab work, I really love the C10's maybe ill get one? :hello:

Thanks Rick.. Go for it, they have a ton of potential. I have so many ideas in my head, I have to work to quit changing things as we go. I gotta get this one done then I'll do some different things on the next.

Very cool! niice work

:thankyou:

Chad nice fab work its looking good.

Thanks Wayne! How's it going?

Chad gave me a sneak peek of the taillights....SICK!

:_paranoid SSSHHHH, what tail lights? :_paranoid

Great work, just read the full thread, you have convinced me to repair the factory panels I have for my C20......

Thanks, if you have good panels that are relatively rust free, thats the way to go! Good Luck. Love these trucks!

Awesome Chad. :thumbsup:

Maybe I missed it; is there a rendering?

Thanks Skip. Yes there is a rendering, but no you didn't miss it. I haven't posted it. I am so freaking slow, I didn't want someone else to build it before me! :D If you know the secret hand shake and promise not to share, I may be able to get you a look at it! BUT, if it gets out......:Tomcat: :bigun2:

[214Chevy]

:_paranoid SSSHHHH, what tail lights? :_paranoid

Uhhh, the ones I want to see. Alright let's see them. :warning: :guns:

[ccracin]

Uhhh, the ones I want to see. Alright let's see them. :warning: :guns:

Sorry, those are a surprise. No pics till I have the pieces machined. They will most likely end up being a product available for purchase. I've got some other things in the works too. Stay tuned! :thumbsup: :popcorn2:

[214Chevy]

Sorry, those are a surprise. No pics till I have the pieces machined. They will most likely end up being a product available for purchase. I've got some other things in the works too. Stay tuned! :thumbsup: :popcorn2:

Booooooooo!! :twak: I'll be patiently waiting though. Hurry up and let the cat out of the bag.

[Rick D]

Booooooooo!! :twak: I'll be patiently waiting though. Hurry up and let the cat out of the bag.

Marcus, you need to finish the Chevelle before you jump to your C10 :poke:

Chad yeah I really do like the c10 but I've got some ideas for my next build, but in all my years of building them I never seem to keep them so I always try to think of the sale at the end. Love the truck but with what I want to do on my next BUILD it just won't make any sense. Of coarse my Camaro that I just sold I had for 11 years total and I didn't finish it, but in that time we had twins and I opened a shop and so on. So for now I just want to get something to cruse in and have fun, then build my next car!!

[214Chevy]

Marcus, you need to finish the Chevelle before you jump to your C10 :poke:

Of course I'm gonna finish the Chevelle first Rick. But like you said..."I'm thinking about what I'm gonna do with my next build" which happens to be the C10. I've already got alot of stuff for it....NOS sheet metal, LS2, 6L80E, HRE's, etc., but I refuse to start it until I finsh the Chevelle. I want some of those taillights Chad are making for it. :idea:

[ccracin]

, but in that time we had twins and I opened a shop and so on.

I'm right there with yah Rick. I have twin 9 year old girls that are involved in everything right now. Right or wrong, I have decided I am not going to blow off their important activities to be in the garage. Although some of their stuff is what gives me time in the garage. When they have dance class, that's garage time! Cheer leading practice = garage time etc.

I'm working on getting a business kicked off as well. The tail lights Marcus wants to see so badly are part of that. Another board member and myself are working on bring some products and services together. Stay tuned, when the time is right we will post some stuff up.

I know what you mean about the "next" one too. Like I said I have so many ideas in my head, I have to work to stay focused on this truck so that it doesn't drag on forever because of changes. I'm anxious to see your next one. You talk to Stielow yet?:poke:

[214Chevy]

.... but in that time we had twins...

.... I have twin 9 year old girls that are involved in everything right now. Right or wrong, I have decided I am not going to blow off their important activities to be in the garage.

Chad and Rick, welcome to the club. I have twin boys. Three boys in total. And yes Rick, cars or no cars, kids in general, yet alone the joy of twins, nothing could replace that time. So, cherish those memories. Trust me and I cannot emphasize this enough, although you've heard it 1,000 times....they are 9 today. You all will go to sleep tonight and wake up tomorrow and they'll be 29. You'll then be asking yourself, "Where did 20 years go?" Twins are so much fun. But, I feel obligated to forewarn you...be prepared for the teenage years. OMG!! I thought I was gonna strangle my twin boys. :snapout: :hitaxeonthehead: And you have girls..............:catfight:

[ccracin]

Although slowly, progress is being made. Trying to get all the defining parts assembled under the hood so that we can keep moving with the sheet metal work. We knew this was a possibility, but weren't sure until we put the hood back on. Sure enough we had to make some room for the billet hinge arms when closed since we moved the inner fender up so far.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/DC698B2F-6920-4634-86F6-630D3C850BF0-4607-0000018BBEF41DBA_zpsa5a69299.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/DC698B2F-6920-4634-86F6-630D3C850BF0-4607-0000018BBEF41DBA_zpsa5a69299.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/FB684E1B-E87F-47D4-B93F-1F2FB1592092-4607-0000018BD23EE97E_zpsd66b9058.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/FB684E1B-E87F-47D4-B93F-1F2FB1592092-4607-0000018BD23EE97E_zpsd66b9058.jpg.html)

This was the first time back in with the rad since the inner fenders were built. A little adjustment and all looks good!

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/E9A1C206-2225-4C1F-980D-2257C2A091BB-4607-0000018BE4D7AA24_zps34dc1da2.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/E9A1C206-2225-4C1F-980D-2257C2A091BB-4607-0000018BE4D7AA24_zps34dc1da2.jpg.html)

On we go! Thanks for looking!

[214Chevy]

Looking good Chad and slow progress is still good progress. Who's hinges did you go with and how's the figment?

[ccracin]

Looking good Chad and slow progress is still good progress. Who's hinges did you go with and how's the figment?

Thanks, Ring Brothers. They are top shelf. They fit better than the sheetmetal they are bolted to. :thumbsup:

[syborg tt]

gotta love the Ring Brothers. They Design, Build & finish some of the most incredible Hot Rods and come up some incredible parts.

ps - don't worry about the time it takes to build them. Enjoy it and when it's done it's done. Heck if it was complete we wouldn't have websites like this.

[ccracin]

gotta love the Ring Brothers. They Design, Build & finish some of the most incredible Hot Rods and come up some incredible parts.

ps - don't worry about the time it takes to build them. Enjoy it and when it's done it's done. Heck if it was complete we wouldn't have websites like this.

They sure do!

I know, but I want my Dad to start enjoying it. We have a great time working on it together, but it's getting to the point he needs to see the fruits of our labor and his :G-Dub: ! See you in Columbus!

[syborg tt]

see ya in Columbus. Remember Mario's Credit Card.

[waynieZ]

They look great in there, and no one will even know the pocket for them was an after thought. :thumbsup:

[ccracin]

They look great in there, and no one will even know the pocket for them was an after thought. :thumbsup:

Honestly they weren't really an after thought. I decided not to put them in at first hoping we would get lucky. In the end after we are done with the under hood sheet metal, you won't see them. Thanks for checking in Wayne!

[Garage Dog 65]

[URL=http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/DC698B2F-6920-4634-86F6-630D3C850BF0-4607-0000018BBEF41DBA_zpsa5a69299.jpg.html]http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/DC698B2F-6920-4634-86F6-630D3C850BF0-4607-0000018BBEF41DBA_zpsa5a69299.jpg[/URL


About Time .......

:popcorn2:

[ccracin]

About Time .......

:popcorn2:

I don't want to hear it from someone that would skip guy time in Columbus for work! :warning:

[Rick D]

Chad progress is progress, some is better then none!

Oh and on the twin thing my girl and boy turned 11 today :confused59: holly cow does he time fly!!!!

[ccracin]

Chad progress is progress, some is better then none!

Oh and on the twin thing my girl and boy turned 11 today :confused59: holly cow does he time fly!!!!

Seems time flies for kids and projects! :hairpullout:

You going to Columbus?

[Garage Dog 65]

I don't want to hear it from someone that would skip guy time in Columbus for work! :warning:



Gotta build rocket ships - that indy car stuff is for girls...

:secret:

[ccracin]

Progress has been made although very little. Does anyone make a tool to put more hours in the day? Anyway, we now have the PRC radiator mounted along with the PRC A/C condenser. We are trying to get the main items mounted so that we can work on the under hood sheet metal close out panels.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/E9A1C206-2225-4C1F-980D-2257C2A091BB-4607-0000018BE4D7AA24_zps34dc1da2.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/E9A1C206-2225-4C1F-980D-2257C2A091BB-4607-0000018BE4D7AA24_zps34dc1da2.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/48cc1ea0477753d27adaec3b93a954ee_zps670470af.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/48cc1ea0477753d27adaec3b93a954ee_zps670470af.jpg.h tml)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/ebab3f1729fee17366949876b3d50311_zps418e6545.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/ebab3f1729fee17366949876b3d50311_zps418e6545.jpg.h tml)

Onward!

[ccracin]

I almost forgot, look what I found on my local Craigslist.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/601b81ece9ffadce6191eb11ce45a555_zpsae62d902.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/601b81ece9ffadce6191eb11ce45a555_zpsae62d902.jpg.h tml)

What are the chances of finding a practically brand new Mastercool A/C hose crimper local? Love it! :trophy-1302:

[DOOM]

Come on Chad your killing me!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Thats it????:wow:

[ccracin]

Come on Chad your killing me!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Thats it????:wow:

I know Mario, depressing isn't it? Summer is rough with activities for the family. I can tell you there has been work going on in other areas. I have been on the computer developing another custom component for the truck. Chips are being made. I'll post pics when it's done. I have also been working on starting a company to help individuals and companies use technology to solve problems and develop parts from Concept to Creation and anywhere in between. We're back at it though, I promise more updates.

[DOOM]

I know Mario, depressing isn't it? Summer is rough with activities for the family. I can tell you there has been work going on in other areas. I have been on the computer developing another custom component for the truck. Chips are being made. I'll post pics when it's done. I have also been working on starting a company to help individuals and companies use technology to solve problems and develop parts from Concept to Creation and anywhere in between. We're back at it though, I promise more updates.

I here ya I just gotta give you a little BS!:cheers:

[ccracin]

I here ya I just gotta give you a little BS!:cheers:

I need it buddy! Keeps me motivated. :gitrdun:

[motorscot]

Progress has been made although very little. Does anyone make a tool to put more hours in the day? Anyway, we now have the PRC radiator mounted along with the PRC A/C condenser. We are trying to get the main items mounted so that we can work on the under hood sheet metal close out panels.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/E9A1C206-2225-4C1F-980D-2257C2A091BB-4607-0000018BE4D7AA24_zps34dc1da2.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/E9A1C206-2225-4C1F-980D-2257C2A091BB-4607-0000018BE4D7AA24_zps34dc1da2.jpg.html)




Hmmm, I've seen this somewhere before.... I wonder if that poor saleslady cried herself to sleep after I crawled her ass:rolleyes:

Have you had a chance to work on the oil and tranny rads or have they come in yet?

[ccracin]

Glad I wasn't there for that. :underchair: They are good people and make an excellent product at a fair price. We have both of those coolers, but aren't back that far in the truck to get those mounted. The A/C evap is going in next so that we can get the firewall bulkhead fittings in. That will then show us where we can go under the hood with our sheet metal trim panels. We mounted that stuff while we were waiting for this stuff.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/74B44E3E-3CCB-4623-A0A8-8EE817296A85-5012-0000036665C600C6_zps32c5732f.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/74B44E3E-3CCB-4623-A0A8-8EE817296A85-5012-0000036665C600C6_zps32c5732f.jpg.html)

It's amazing how much these boxes cost! :G-Dub:

By the way, got to give a shout out to Kim and the folks at Matt's Classic Bowties. They are great to work with and their prices are very competitive!

[BAILEIGH INC]

Lookin good man

[ccracin]

Lookin good man

Thanks Shane, I'll be calling soon!

[ccracin]

All I can say is my head hurts. Glad we made the mock up to work this out on the bench. I hate welding up misplaced holes in a smooth firewall!

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/41E9D702-5118-45E1-A47E-F6908DCDC680-1470-000000BCD477CBBB_zps91e97ef2.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/41E9D702-5118-45E1-A47E-F6908DCDC680-1470-000000BCD477CBBB_zps91e97ef2.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/0848AE8D-61DF-4853-A000-D08EB288EA97-1470-000000BCE02D0804_zpsba9b6508.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/0848AE8D-61DF-4853-A000-D08EB288EA97-1470-000000BCE02D0804_zpsba9b6508.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/B99929C5-3558-4DAF-92C9-233128DBD405-1470-000000BCCA00F92F_zpse5583571.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/B99929C5-3558-4DAF-92C9-233128DBD405-1470-000000BCCA00F92F_zpse5583571.jpg.html)

[fleetus macmullitz]

We see so much metalwork on here I like the wood look Chad. :unibrow:



Oh and nice tool btw. :cool:

[ccracin]

We see so much metalwork on here I like the wood look Chad. :unibrow:



Oh and nice tool btw. :cool:

I couldn't get the beads to flow like I wanted, so I didn't show the welds! Thanks though, I think. :lostmarbles:

[motorscot]

I couldn't get the beads to flow like I wanted, so I didn't show the welds! Thanks though, I think. :lostmarbles:

That there was real smart like

[ccracin]

My headache is a little better. I have to say this is one of the more challenging tasks so far. Fitting 4 hoses into such a tight spot was a challenge. I still have some work to do to figure out the assembly sequence. You see, there still isn't a dash in the thing yet. I guess this is as Greg would say HOT RODDING! I'll let the pictures tell the story. Enjoy!

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/D7E3FB1C-1652-4612-99DB-0F2C772A45C0-2787-000001A39954455C_zps7e11ca1f.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/D7E3FB1C-1652-4612-99DB-0F2C772A45C0-2787-000001A39954455C_zps7e11ca1f.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/356E3379-5B9E-4B6D-8D95-3B069741DD89-2787-000001A3AE58F5C7_zpsc4c234f8.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/356E3379-5B9E-4B6D-8D95-3B069741DD89-2787-000001A3AE58F5C7_zpsc4c234f8.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/BD58FC2A-7BE5-47B6-AD3A-0C873DF2AD51-2787-000001A3CE5EB87B_zps978bc7cc.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/BD58FC2A-7BE5-47B6-AD3A-0C873DF2AD51-2787-000001A3CE5EB87B_zps978bc7cc.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/0441689D-BD67-4AFD-9B0C-7608939B663C-2787-000001A3D6609E0A_zps936f05d7.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/0441689D-BD67-4AFD-9B0C-7608939B663C-2787-000001A3D6609E0A_zps936f05d7.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/8019C6D4-6316-43EA-BD3E-0CC611F8617A-2787-000001A3FAF1022B_zps5a26f05a.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/8019C6D4-6316-43EA-BD3E-0CC611F8617A-2787-000001A3FAF1022B_zps5a26f05a.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/9095D44B-E08F-4133-97E5-9EBC6831AE77-2787-000001A3F32A1F48_zpsaeb90124.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/9095D44B-E08F-4133-97E5-9EBC6831AE77-2787-000001A3F32A1F48_zpsaeb90124.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/61AAB4BC-D142-4E21-8A92-3CA17FCC74EB-2787-000001A40E08C2CE_zps9459be2c.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/61AAB4BC-D142-4E21-8A92-3CA17FCC74EB-2787-000001A40E08C2CE_zps9459be2c.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/A9CB23AB-D9F6-48AD-BD68-3AEF9977F7F7-2787-000001A4192A288D_zps5eb736d3.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/A9CB23AB-D9F6-48AD-BD68-3AEF9977F7F7-2787-000001A4192A288D_zps5eb736d3.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/32627B95-1A27-4D32-BBFE-E48BCC0163A3-2787-000001A4218515CA_zpsd3f2ef70.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/32627B95-1A27-4D32-BBFE-E48BCC0163A3-2787-000001A4218515CA_zpsd3f2ef70.jpg.html)

As always, comments good and bad are welcome!

[ccracin]

Since Skip was giving me a hard time about using some wood, I had to try and step up my metal work game. This tool should help do that.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/894e7f5e34a034742f0a51de78832a6b_zps07c5f68d.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/894e7f5e34a034742f0a51de78832a6b_zps07c5f68d.jpg.h tml)

Let's see if my imagination can keep up with it's capability! Stay tuned!

[GregWeld]

What good is that going to do you!! Everything you've built so far is round.....



HAHAHAHAHAHAHA



Nice tool and that's not a personal statement) !



Pretty soon - we're going to have to have a Baileigh Tool party at SEMA! Shane's just killin' it on Lat G lately. They have nice stuff!

[ccracin]

What good is that going to do you!! Everything you've built so far is round.....

There is a reason for that, No Tools For Square Parts! :D
This should help fix that!



HAHAHAHAHAHAHA



Nice tool and that's not a personal statement) !
I'll take it regardless!



Pretty soon - we're going to have to have a Baileigh Tool party at SEMA! Shane's just killin' it on Lat G lately. They have nice stuff!
Not this year, but I'm in for next! Shane is certainly trying hard and giving the Lat-G community some good deals. They are the only company that I found with this tool in 220v that was rated for 16ga across it's full length. We'll see how it does!

Now, to wire it up and get rolling!

[fleetus macmullitz]

Since Skip was giving me a hard time about using some wood, I had to try and step up my metal work game. This tool should help do that.

Let's see if my imagination can keep up with it's capability! Stay tuned!

Chad,

It's been so long ago now...maybe I was really encouraging the wood look. :waveflag:

:D

Actually, I only give guys building Camaros a hard time. :stirthepot:

Plus GW, Jerdawg, RobFerd and... :BlahBlah: :BlahBlah:


:lol:

[ccracin]

While everyone and their brother it seems is getting ready for SEMA, I hit the garage and got some progress made. Time to start the under hood sheet metal. First up are the rad close out panels. Here is the prep work.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/E2B351C6-BDCA-4868-B807-E8DCC0FC47DD-11938-00000902B53EE3F0_zps49360594.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/E2B351C6-BDCA-4868-B807-E8DCC0FC47DD-11938-00000902B53EE3F0_zps49360594.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/725F510C-D135-4361-899E-173DA0147E8D-11938-00000902BE2B4CA2_zps3462dbba.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/725F510C-D135-4361-899E-173DA0147E8D-11938-00000902BE2B4CA2_zps3462dbba.jpg.html)

After that it was time to try the new brake out. Man is it nice. The clamping power is really unlike any other brake I have used. On some test pieces I could bend a 3/16" Flange on a 3/4" wide x 8" long piece of 16ga. You don't know how tough that is unless you have tried. Well, here is the result of the first go.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/FDF30C79-2C0B-4753-BB5A-6880FF6027A4-11938-00000902E0FAC69F_zps2385c6c6.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/FDF30C79-2C0B-4753-BB5A-6880FF6027A4-11938-00000902E0FAC69F_zps2385c6c6.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/22A06EA8-DB63-4F13-A889-1F2CFB6F65C0-11938-00000902D6A8DAF3_zpsefe7443c.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/22A06EA8-DB63-4F13-A889-1F2CFB6F65C0-11938-00000902D6A8DAF3_zpsefe7443c.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/102229E5-FBEB-4008-8275-F96C48E40465-11938-00000902D0A72FEF_zps38e32a96.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/102229E5-FBEB-4008-8275-F96C48E40465-11938-00000902D0A72FEF_zps38e32a96.jpg.html)

More to come, thanks for checking in!

[Vince@Meanstreets]

16g work looks good chad, but 3/16"???? wow, that is impressive.

[Rick D]

Very nice Chad!! Nothing like getting to use new tools!

[ccracin]

16g work looks good chad, but 3/16"???? wow, that is impressive.

The large close out panels are 18ga. I was going to use 20 but thought they might dent to easy if someone leans on them. The little flanges on the sides of the latch are 16. That is a crisp line for 16 in my opinion. Thanks for the compliment!

[ccracin]

Very nice Chad!! Nothing like getting to use new tools!

It's like Christmas morning Rick! :) It helps motivate too!

[fleetus macmullitz]

Lookin good Chad ... nice work. :thumbsup:

'Happy Screw SEMA Week' to ya.


:lol:

[waynieZ]

It looks great Chad, nice work.

[ccracin]

We got some more done this past week. So let's see if I can give you an idea of direction we are going. I made sample panels for my Dad to look at. Some with beads, some with the bead rolled recesses that are very popular now. In the end he likes simple, smooth and angular. So here is the direction he decided on. I already posted the Rad close out panels.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_1034_zpseed2e0a0.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_1034_zpseed2e0a0.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_1032_zpsba59ac90.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_1032_zpsba59ac90.jpg.html)

The next panel was the Radiator cover. So, some clicks on the keyboard and a detailed drawing along with a full size template were in order.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/ddafb751-f466-47b8-92f9-0c652f3510c0_zps1370cec1.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/ddafb751-f466-47b8-92f9-0c652f3510c0_zps1370cec1.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_1103_zpsfb55b5c6.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_1103_zpsfb55b5c6.jpg.html)

Center punch through the template and connect the dots. Cut on red and bend on blue!

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_1104_zpsddb8fa8d.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_1104_zpsddb8fa8d.jpg.html)

All cut out!

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_1109_zpsf3a661e3.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_1109_zpsf3a661e3.jpg.html)

[ccracin]

Then it was time to see how the new Baileigh Electromagnetic Brake worked. Wow, I love it! I'll let the pictures tell the story.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_1110_zps0acee751.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_1110_zps0acee751.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_1112_zps1d846506.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_1112_zps1d846506.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_1114_zps2f88ecf6.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_1114_zps2f88ecf6.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_1115_zps52a76e9f.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_1115_zps52a76e9f.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_1117_zps3b1eb865.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_1117_zps3b1eb865.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_1119_zps6a95c852.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_1119_zps6a95c852.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_1120_zps676493c6.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_1120_zps676493c6.jpg.html)

That would have taken a huge Box/Pan Brake to do.

[ccracin]

A few tack welds and some trimming and my Dad is a happy guy! So far so good!

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_1127_zps7208acb4.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_1127_zps7208acb4.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/5a80a459-256e-4097-b5ab-14f31891a51a_zpsd0cea86d.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/5a80a459-256e-4097-b5ab-14f31891a51a_zpsd0cea86d.jpg.html)

As always comments are welcome. Good or Bad! Thanks for looking.

[214Chevy]

I have nothing bad to say. Looks damn good to me. Nice work!!

[fleetus macmullitz]

Chad, aka ccracin, the pride of Rostraver, PA...FTW!

[NovaBlue71]

Nice work Chad! Keep up great work. Joe :thumbsup:

[ccracin]

Nice work Chad! Keep up great work. Joe :thumbsup:

Thanks Joe! I wsh we wre closer, I'd like you and Paul to see it in person and pick your brain a bit.

[motorscot]

Chad, aka ccracin, the pride of Rostraver, PA...FTW!

Yup, I knew ol' Chad back when he was but a wee pup in high school, before he hit the big time.....

Damn fine work buddy

[ccracin]

We made a bit more progress before the Christmas break! I appreciate all the kind words. My Dad seems happy and that's what counts. Right? It's taking more shape. You can finally see the overall look for the under hood coming together. Enjoy!

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/679CD78F-7620-459C-8A1A-D4EE1AB69949-2784-000001C818EAEBA4_zps9c9c21ce.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/679CD78F-7620-459C-8A1A-D4EE1AB69949-2784-000001C818EAEBA4_zps9c9c21ce.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/3059DFCE-B636-404E-851B-E26152773702-2784-000001C7E9899AFF_zps870df4e1.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/3059DFCE-B636-404E-851B-E26152773702-2784-000001C7E9899AFF_zps870df4e1.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/AA91AC90-A658-4C9F-9873-D8C4836F8DF2-14762-00000C00CFF00ACC_zpsa3ed9c30.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/AA91AC90-A658-4C9F-9873-D8C4836F8DF2-14762-00000C00CFF00ACC_zpsa3ed9c30.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/5AD2F8EE-5E8A-4B0D-BA6C-FF6D48829B65-2784-000001C7D199215B_zpse62f2da4.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/5AD2F8EE-5E8A-4B0D-BA6C-FF6D48829B65-2784-000001C7D199215B_zpse62f2da4.jpg.html)

Again and as always, let me know what you think. Good or Bad!

[GregWeld]

I'm wondering how you plan to take it all apart... As I see the inners tacked up to the firewall...

I might have put a flange on the panel where it abuts the firewall and used a couple of blind fasteners (used a nut serf in the firewall)... and then reached up from under the fender to run the fastener home.

You might already have that all figured out. I just can't tell from the pics.

[ccracin]

I'm wondering how you plan to take it all apart... As I see the inners tacked up to the firewall...

I might have put a flange on the panel where it abuts the firewall and used a couple of blind fasteners (used a nut serf in the firewall)... and then reached up from under the fender to run the fastener home.

You might already have that all figured out. I just can't tell from the pics.

I'm on it buddy. Actually, I'm glad you asked that because I actually forgot to take pictures of that. I am really trying to put enough pics on of what we are doing so that if someone sees something they like, they can see how we did it.

The welds you see on the firewall are actually for the flange I have welded to it. That flange will have nut-serts in them. There are also flanges along the fenders and on the rad cover. The fasteners will be exposed. My Dad and I like the industrial/race look of the exposed hardware.

The gap between the inner fender covers and the inner fender wells is where we will run the a/c and heater hoses as well as other plumbing/electrical. I want this thing to look good but it has to be serviceable as well!

Do I get a pass? :sieg:

[GregWeld]

Do I get a pass? :sieg:




Six "attaboys" and a couple of "EEEEEEEEEHHHHHHHHAAAAAAAAS"




I also like the exposed hardware look.... the other way is pure show car and is fine --- as long as you never want to work on anything. HAHAHAHAHA

[ccracin]

Six "attaboys" and a couple of "EEEEEEEEEHHHHHHHHAAAAAAAAS"

:ohsnap: :thankyou:

[Sieg]

Do I get a pass? :sieg:
Absolutely!

Awesome design work Chad :thumbsup:

[intocarss]

That looks great

[Rick D]

Looks great Chad, you really are knocking this one out of the park!!! :king:

[ccracin]

Absolutely!

Awesome design work Chad :thumbsup:

Thanks Sieg! I'm really trying!

That looks great

Thanks Jer,

Looks great Chad, you really are knocking this one out of the park!!! :king:

I appreciate it Rick. Now the little details........

[waynieZ]

Nice work Chad it looks great.

[ccracin]

Nice work Chad it looks great.

Thanks Wayne! Hope all is well up there in the arctic tundra!

[ccracin]

It's about time for the look of the pile of parts to change. I told Dad we need a motivator, let's put a bumper on this thing. We ordered the bumper from Brothers Trucks. So what's the first thing you do with a nice shiny new part, YEP cut it up! After the first test fit, the "V" shape of the bumper didn't match the shape of the front of the truck. So, a slice here a slice there, some accurately placed force and some welds and shazam!

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/4cad0f79bc119c4f80c85cfb5c15b820_zps25169994.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/4cad0f79bc119c4f80c85cfb5c15b820_zps25169994.jpg.h tml)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/292373e3bf68d87d7407e1dc05d09d64_zps7cb2ed29.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/292373e3bf68d87d7407e1dc05d09d64_zps7cb2ed29.jpg.h tml)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2a487ebdc04bd6fe5e840163e574f05b_zps460fd3d1.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/2a487ebdc04bd6fe5e840163e574f05b_zps460fd3d1.jpg.h tml)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/edcb903b35959f698d7c1265bcf12fed_zpsc93b1531.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/edcb903b35959f698d7c1265bcf12fed_zpsc93b1531.jpg.h tml)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/51e1ae8261a6df796e99d81281ef16fb_zps7c93f162.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/51e1ae8261a6df796e99d81281ef16fb_zps7c93f162.jpg.h tml)

But, Eeeeewww look at the ends of that bumper flapping out there!

[ccracin]

This will never do!

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/58cb5d4bd26907f24aabdddd47cb65a7_zps906a8ca4.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/58cb5d4bd26907f24aabdddd47cb65a7_zps906a8ca4.jpg.h tml)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/e29930e68a92586026f9bfb0d55c9949_zps1cf5c7a0.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/e29930e68a92586026f9bfb0d55c9949_zps1cf5c7a0.jpg.h tml)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/237514745b493b2ebbadfc57d5ee1415_zps763351ac.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/237514745b493b2ebbadfc57d5ee1415_zps763351ac.jpg.h tml)

Time for a little nip and tuck.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/7dce5bc8f722b2b9051cb746dafd44f6_zpse812de50.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/7dce5bc8f722b2b9051cb746dafd44f6_zpse812de50.jpg.h tml)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/914098e3105949d0788953e9429216c3_zps0a3cad12.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/914098e3105949d0788953e9429216c3_zps0a3cad12.jpg.h tml)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/491e37f6b5833a060580894321f5e0bb_zpsbddbe58d.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/491e37f6b5833a060580894321f5e0bb_zpsbddbe58d.jpg.h tml)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/2f0bb91329c7f4bf538d32314f79fa51_zpsa796928a.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/2f0bb91329c7f4bf538d32314f79fa51_zpsa796928a.jpg.h tml)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/a4075dbbb22237891c76335c6282967f_zps88dabba3.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/a4075dbbb22237891c76335c6282967f_zps88dabba3.jpg.h tml)

Much Better!

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/59f859e5d770a5e9f6674fee8087ba88_zps41f27a74.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/59f859e5d770a5e9f6674fee8087ba88_zps41f27a74.jpg.h tml)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/3ca7db4d14515d7d21b5f96b5b327da9_zps79c0519f.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/3ca7db4d14515d7d21b5f96b5b327da9_zps79c0519f.jpg.h tml)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/fdcd368f32136d32c9f8166f707f48f2_zpsad33dccc.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/fdcd368f32136d32c9f8166f707f48f2_zpsad33dccc.jpg.h tml)

Mission Accomplished! It's actually looking like a truck again. A little more welding, grinding, filing and sanding and you will never know it was cut!

Thanks for looking, as always comments welcome!

[HWY Nova]

Looks real nice Chad!


--Eric

[ccracin]

Looks real nice Chad!


--Eric

Thanks Eric! Hope all is well!

[214Chevy]

Bumper mods are nice Chad....keep going!!

[waynieZ]

I'm with Marcus, Nice job Chad.

[ccracin]

Bumper mods are nice Chad....keep going!!

Thanks Marcus, onward!

I'm with Marcus, Nice job Chad.

Thanks Wayne! I appreciate you guys checking in!

[waynieZ]

I enjoy it to much to stay away too long!!

[1nice67chevy]

How the rear bumpers now

[ccracin]

I enjoy it to much to stay away too long!!

Thanks Wayne!

How the rear bumpers now

No rear bumper. It has a roll pan that will be doctored up a bit!

[DOOM]

Chad that's friggin awesome !! It's all the little details that make the difference!

[ccracin]

Chad that's friggin awesome !! It's all the little details that make the difference!

Thanks Mario! Trying to keep up with the Big Dogs! LOL

[ccracin]

They say it's a good sign when the parts you are working on get smaller. Who knows, but we are getting things under the hood fixed up. We sent the inner fenders and panels off to a friend to weld so that we can continue fabricating. These are some pics of pulling the A/C system together. Had to mount the drier.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_1672_zps4633e894.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_1672_zps4633e894.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_1673_zps1eab17fd.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_1673_zps1eab17fd.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_1674_zpsd49611be.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_1674_zpsd49611be.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_1675_zps181a0c56.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_1675_zps181a0c56.jpg.html)

Then we started mocking up the hard lines for the condenser. Now it's off to the local shop to have them made.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_1681_zps20883ef0.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_1681_zps20883ef0.jpg.html)

Not much, but progress.

We were finally able to connect the front to the back with this little delivery!

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/854ce7ef-0f20-4932-a827-c3e23bbe2c46_zpsf813fd2a.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/854ce7ef-0f20-4932-a827-c3e23bbe2c46_zpsf813fd2a.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_1900_zps86ed34c3.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_1900_zps86ed34c3.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_1901_zpsf939af67.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_1901_zpsf939af67.jpg.html)

3.5" Aluminum with 1350 U-Joint. The pics don't do it justice. Denny's does a nice job and it fit like a glove!

[ccracin]

We decided now that we should try to button up the bed so that we can dismantle it for final welding and have access to the chassis easier. We need to start mounting coolers and battery. Because we raised the bed floor 4 1/2" or so, we had to finish off the rear sill. It's all a little harder since we wanted to make sure this thing will still come apart rather than just welding it all together. I like it, more important than that Dad likes it!

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_1903_zps271d5d6d.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_1903_zps271d5d6d.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_1904_zpsfdf1a6dd.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_1904_zpsfdf1a6dd.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_1907_zpsf5cfe9f8.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_1907_zpsf5cfe9f8.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_1908_zpse1d6f970.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_1908_zpse1d6f970.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/eef752b4-d416-48b2-b7dd-eb0a9feff129_zps2cbb6066.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/eef752b4-d416-48b2-b7dd-eb0a9feff129_zps2cbb6066.jpg.html)

Thanks for checking in!

[Leroy Rochester]

Man this thing is going to be nice! Love the trucks and really enjoyed reading through this thread! Thanks!

[waynieZ]

Nice job Chad it's looking good. I like the drive shaft, Denny's does nice work. I'll need a place to get a drive shaft now that kiesler is out of. Buisness.

[ccracin]

Man this thing is going to be nice! Love the trucks and really enjoyed reading through this thread! Thanks!

Thanks for the kind words Leroy. We are really trying hard to produce a top shelf garage build. My Dad has waited a long time for this type of build, im doing my best to exceed his expectations.

Nice job Chad it's looking good. I like the drive shaft, Denny's does nice work. I'll need a place to get a drive shaft now that kiesler is out of. Buisness.

Thanks Wayne. It really is a nice piece Wayne. They were great to deal with as well. We filled out the form and then my Dad called it in. They asked him a few questions about the application and made their recommendation. He placed the order and a few weeks later it showed up just as they said it would. And, even better is dropped right in! If you need a place Wayne, this is a good one.

[tubbed69]

That's some very professional looking fab work you guys are doing Chad,great job:thumbsup:

[motorscot]

Any updates? It's been a week since "I'll get back at it directly" :poke: :poke:

[ccracin]

Any updates? It's been a week since "I'll get back at it directly" :poke: :poke:

Hopefully next week. all the birthday and anniversary parties will be over. I will also have delivered the parts I made for Pro-rides X-Box. Busy Busy. :hairpullout:

[HWY Nova]

Chad,

Got any pics of carbon fiber parts that you want to share?



--ET

[ccracin]

Chad,

Got any pics of carbon fiber parts that you want to share?



--ET

I don't Eric, but my partner I'm sure does. We'll have to see what we can get Jim to post!

[motorscot]

Everyone wish Chad a much deserved Happy Birthday!

Keep up the great work buddy :cheers: :grouphug: :_party:

No, seriously, get back to work....:cheering:

[GregWeld]

Happy Birthday Chad!!



Hey! Are you still running the LS6? If so - hope it's running well for you.



Now - like the above poster said - GET BACK TO WORK!

[ccracin]

Happy Birthday Chad!!



Hey! Are you still running the LS6? If so - hope it's running well for you.



Now - like the above poster said - GET BACK TO WORK!

Thanks Buddy!

Yes it is. And well too! The body of the car it is in is crappy looking. It's an ex state police B4C car. when they took the decals off they scratched it all up and it has some dents. Add to that me backing a trailer load of stone into it an you have a rag a muffin looking car. That will get fixed eventually. But it sure confuses other camaro, mustang, and various ricer cars when they cant catch it. LOL

Back to work! Well, maybe tomorrow........

[HWY Nova]

Who authorized you to stop working in the first place?


--Eric

[ccracin]

Who authorized you to stop working in the first place?


--Eric

Actually the Boss! I had to get my house ready to host His and the real Boss' 50th wedding anniversary party. They had a great time visiting with some old friends. I am really hoping to get back to the garage within the week.

In that time I was able to deliver some cool parts to Pro-Rides for their Project X-Box!

[HWY Nova]

Actually the Boss!



Well, ok then.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!



--Eric

[ccracin]

Here we go, back at it. After a very successful anniversary party for my parents and stint as a softball coach for my daughters 10U team, we are back at it. Details are the name of the game now. We have some A/C hard lines being made up currently. Once we have them, we will be able to make the rest of the A/C and heater lines under the hood. We decided to do it now so we weren't cutting finished panels to make them work. Pictures after we get those back.

We are also trying to get most of the fab work done on the bed so that we can take it apart and do the final welding. While it's apart we will get the oil and trans coolers mounted. Some pages ago I posted work we had done to the wheel tubs and bed sides. We like having the rear wheels and tires out as close to the fender lip as possible. As with everything else this required lots of work. Now we are down to the final details. One of which is the transition between the wheel tub lip and the bed side bolt flange for the bed wood. These tubs are bolt in on stock sides. But, because of our modifications they are now welded in. so here is the plan.

This tub will be welded in.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/Misc/IMG_3992.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/Misc/IMG_3992.jpg.html)

This is the interface of the 2 bolt flanges now. (Sorry, horrible picture)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/7C85BE12-6A47-4D49-AEF3-D1F1819F9948_zpsify5qceu.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/7C85BE12-6A47-4D49-AEF3-D1F1819F9948_zpsify5qceu.jpg.html)

A nice radius will look better.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/927C87BA-2E85-456D-A7A3-5D4F96166E5F_zpsqryb5k5u.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/927C87BA-2E85-456D-A7A3-5D4F96166E5F_zpsqryb5k5u.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/CBC5048E-AF54-4F71-BBA0-04C4AAE53B23_zpsh2tlqaxd.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/CBC5048E-AF54-4F71-BBA0-04C4AAE53B23_zpsh2tlqaxd.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/5C28790B-161C-4F6D-BAF6-78484A9FD0C7_zpsihuvfyvx.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/5C28790B-161C-4F6D-BAF6-78484A9FD0C7_zpsihuvfyvx.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/43DF5AC3-2225-46C5-A8E3-F02820776EAC_zps9enzlxnc.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/43DF5AC3-2225-46C5-A8E3-F02820776EAC_zps9enzlxnc.jpg.html)

Much better. Now repeat 3 more times.

MAN it is good to be able to post an update, however small!

[214Chevy]

MAN it is good to be able to post an update, however small!

And a good update it is Chad. Keep up the good work. Those corners are gonna look awesome.

[DOOM]

Would you please finish this truck!!!!:underchair:

[ccracin]

And a good update it is Chad. Keep up the good work. Those corners are gonna look awesome.

Thanks Marcus! Every time we have a break in the build and I come back, I see new things that I don't like. Sooner or later I need to just move on and get it finished. I wish I had some help like Mario does.

Would you please finish this truck!!!!:underchair:

Oh, speak of the devil! :warning: You sound just like my Dad. All these bosses around here and no indians! :catfight:

I'm trying hard, It's getting there, at least we are talking body shop now!

[waynieZ]

Nice up date, these details make all the difference.

[intocarss]

:cheering: :beavis: :gitrdun:

[DOOM]

Thanks Marcus! Every time we have a break in the build and I come back, I see new things that I don't like. Sooner or later I need to just move on and get it finished. I wish I had some help like Mario does.



Oh, speak of the devil! :warning: You sound just like my Dad. All these bosses around here and no indians! :catfight:

I'm trying hard, It's getting there, at least we are talking body shop now!

:buttkick: :BlahBlah: :BlahBlah: :BlahBlah: :lmao:

[ccracin]

Nice up date, these details make all the difference.

Thanks Wayne, that's what I keep telling myself as the weeks roll on! :drowninga:

:cheering: :beavis: :gitrdun:
:military:

:buttkick: :BlahBlah: :BlahBlah: :BlahBlah: :lmao:
:bang: :bang: :bang:

[fleetus macmullitz]

Good to see an update Chad...you get extra lat-g credits for those you know.

:thankyou:

[ccracin]

Good to see an update Chad...you get extra lat-g credits for those you know.

:thankyou:

Thanks Skip! Is this like Ski Ball and Dave & Busters? When I get 50,000 credits, I can get a Jolly Rancher? :lol:

[fleetus macmullitz]

Thanks Skip! Is this like Ski Ball and Dave & Busters? When I get 50,000 credits, I can get a Jolly Rancher? :lol:

Chad,

Uhh......no. :D


Actually, at the Lat-g gabfest/get together at SEMA you'll get all first run napkins, no blems, and...a free sitdown with the man who can bring 'doom' into any room, Mr. Mario Marr aka 'MMM' aka...

http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k156/wnyjazz/1%20album%202014/imagejpg10_zps5514a410.jpg (http://s87.photobucket.com/user/wnyjazz/media/1%20album%202014/imagejpg10_zps5514a410.jpg.html)

:lol:

[ccracin]

Things are still moving along. All these little things take forever. Here are some of the details I've been working on to try and wrap the bed up. I'll let the pics talk. Just small stuff.

Bed pocket fill:
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_3309_zps61f4b5eb.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_3309_zps61f4b5eb.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_3310_zpsa08e0fd7.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_3310_zpsa08e0fd7.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_3311_zpsfe41db44.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_3311_zpsfe41db44.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_3312_zps4a25083d.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_3312_zps4a25083d.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_3313_zps36d01347.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_3313_zps36d01347.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/39b887ea-d599-440b-9cb3-b836b7152e99_zps515ac783.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/39b887ea-d599-440b-9cb3-b836b7152e99_zps515ac783.jpg.html)

Next........

[ccracin]

Now onto the tail gate. We are running a latch flip kit, but we can't leave well enough alone. It's a nice universal kit, but needs some refinement.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_3389_zpse4fcc5a4.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_3389_zpse4fcc5a4.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_3329_zps23138120.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_3329_zps23138120.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_3331_zps5f86a8e1.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_3331_zps5f86a8e1.jpg.html)

More.......

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_3332_zpsb3a7433f.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_3332_zpsb3a7433f.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_3334_zpse25e0e28.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_3334_zpse25e0e28.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_3335_zpscc8ccc20.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_3335_zpscc8ccc20.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_3387_zps77c8f66b.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_3387_zps77c8f66b.jpg.html) More.........

[ccracin]

This kit is built to allow anyone with some basic tools to use other than filling the outside skin where the original handle was. Because I like to add to the "To Do' list, here are some changes.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_3390_zps58861b82.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_3390_zps58861b82.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_3385_zps5865d0bf.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_3385_zps5865d0bf.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_3388_zpse5de20be.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_3388_zpse5de20be.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_3391_zps2d79c27d.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_3391_zps2d79c27d.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_3392_zps45ca6cd3.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_3392_zps45ca6cd3.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_3393_zps7fadecf0.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_3393_zps7fadecf0.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_3394_zps7d54139b.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_3394_zps7d54139b.jpg.html)

Remember, this will all be body worked. This is a whole other struggle I have with myself. More on that later...
More........

[ccracin]

As promised, here is the close to finished results. I still have one more addition, but that will require a custom part.

The original piece.
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_3429_zps5f1bee6b.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_3429_zps5f1bee6b.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_3430_zps4687400c.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_3430_zps4687400c.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_3431_zpsf05102a3.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_3431_zpsf05102a3.jpg.html)

Much Much better in my opinion!
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_3432_zpse1bb302d.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_3432_zpse1bb302d.jpg.html)

Thanks for looking!

[DOOM]

Chad...................:thumbsup: :yes: :yes:

[motorscot]

woo hoo!!! Looks good. Haven't busted your attachments lately and I won't do it now. Keep making progress.

(and before you ask, house is in slow-motion, truck still runs, and I'm knee deep in a '92 YJ rehab project that should turn out pretty sweet)

[waynieZ]

Nice work chad.

[ccracin]

woo hoo!!! Looks good. Haven't busted your attachments lately and I won't do it now. Keep making progress.

(and before you ask, house is in slow-motion, truck still runs, and I'm knee deep in a '92 YJ rehab project that should turn out pretty sweet)

Thanks Scott! It seems all things these days are knee deep and in slow motion!

Nice work chad.

Thanks Wayne! Hope all is well with you buddy!

[ccracin]

Here is a question for everyone, do you like seeing all the detail pics? It seems like we work for days and days making progress but the end result is hard to see sometimes in pics. That's one of the reasons I try to show alot of the detail pics. Also, I hope it will give others that may be looking that don't always post some ideas. I'm not saying they are all the best ideas:confused18: , but ideas never the less!

I have some pics of how we decided to mount the bed so you don't see the mounting bolts, but it's not exciting stuff! Oh well, I'll get them loaded up and posted. No point in stopping now! :lol:

[HBRod]

Personally I really like the detail pictures. The old adage of "a picture is worth a thousand words" certainly comes to mind. I look at them and study as much detail as I can gather/infer from it. Yes, it's difficult to explain how much work goes into the fabrication process until each of us tries something simple and how much time it took us to get the part where we would accept it. That why I enjoy looking at the work of those who truly have the skill and knowledge on how to make really nice fab work.

I don't pretend to have your level of talent but I can vicariously enjoy viewing the hard work you put into the cars you build. IMHO

Rod

[HWY Nova]

Do you like seeing all the detail pics?




But of course!


--Eric

[waynieZ]

I'm with Rod and Eric post away!

[intocarss]

You post the pics and we'll look at them! :rules:

[ccracin]

Personally I really like the detail pictures. The old adage of "a picture is worth a thousand words" certainly comes to mind. I look at them and study as much detail as I can gather/infer from it. Yes, it's difficult to explain how much work goes into the fabrication process until each of us tries something simple and how much time it took us to get the part where we would accept it. That why I enjoy looking at the work of those who truly have the skill and knowledge on how to make really nice fab work.

I don't pretend to have your level of talent but I can vicariously enjoy viewing the hard work you put into the cars you build. IMHO

Rod

Thanks for the kind words Rod. This is like anything else research, practice, make mistakes, and fix them. I don't claim to be as skilled as many on this site, but i'm trying hard and really like the feedback from folks in the community. Sometimes when you look at and focus on something or one area for so long, you start to not see things! In my Engineering group we have a policy of having at least a second set of eyes check all drawings and designs before they are released. I suppose some of this is me getting all of you to check my work and make sure I didn't do something really dumb! Thanks for looking!

[ccracin]

I'm with Rod and Eric post away!

You post the pics and we'll look at them! :rules:


Alright guys, you asked for it! :captain1:

[ccracin]

Continuing on the goal of getting the bed wrapped up, it's time to get it mounted permanently. Because I have some special plans for the bed wood, I needed a way of mounting the bed without seeing the hardware. Like some many things on this truck, since I built a new chassis most of the stock solutions will not work. One of the stock items we did use are the supports for the bed floor although modified! My plan was to use captured nut plates welded into the bottom of the factory support and then bolt up through the chassis brackets and viola! Mounted! That simple plan required alot of work!

Because its' never a good idea to bolt through tube steel due to crushing, I added sleeves to the tubing created a proper bolted joint.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_3619_zps5e682e8d.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_3619_zps5e682e8d.jpg.html)

The photo I forgot to take was the 3/4" OD 1/8" wall tube slug I used as the sleeve.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_3622_zps4d8f83d3.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_3622_zps4d8f83d3.jpg.html)

Here are the steps in building and attaching the captured bolt plates.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_3549_zps1602c6c1.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_3549_zps1602c6c1.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_3550_zps36d65d60.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_3550_zps36d65d60.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_3551_zps81c31b49.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_3551_zps81c31b49.jpg.html)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r35/ccracin/IMG_3552_zps5dbe0ab9.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/ccracin/media/IMG_3552_zps5dbe0ab9.jpg.html)

Next time, I'll see if the holes line up! Thanks for looking!

[grendel]

I've built a few of these trucks. Always nice to see a nice one come together.

Keep up the good work.

Maybe we can come together and show these care guys what a good truck can do... then again, one of my current projects is a 2nd gen Camaro.