Project Splitter

[2ndgenracer]

Hey guys,

I wanted to introduce myself. I live in Glen Carbon, IL it's about 20 min outside St. Louis, MO. I've been drag racing for about 18 years now and I’m finally making the move over to going around corners.

About the build on the 70 Firebird, most of all the parts and details will be on V8TV, or blogs on V8TVshow.com. I've just completed the mini tubs, and now that I have wheels/tires mounted I can start building the rear end. It will be a factory leaf spring car, I know there's better available, but I want to keep the car legal for some local 1/8 mile racing.

Front:
Global West tubular uppers/lowers
1.25" sway bar
QA1 coil overs
Baer brakes
18X9.5" CCW Classics 5.25" bksp Toyo RA-1 275/35/18
15X3.5” American Racing TrakStars MT-26X6
Rear:
Cal-trac split leaf lowered 2" w/Cal-trac bars
Afco sliders
Moly fabricated 9"
Moser center/axles w/35 spline Detroit locker 3.90 gear
Watts link
QA1 shocks
Baer brakes
18X12" CCW Classics 4" bksp Toyo RA-1 335/30/18
15X10” American Racing TrakStars 3” bksp MT-325/50/15 DR

I'll be running a 541 inch Butler Performance Pontiac, and for drag racing I'll be adding some spray. Look forward to seeing you guys at events this year.

Thanks,
Brett Evans

[907rs]

Sounds like a cool car and the rendering looks killer. Keep us updated, Brett. :thumbsup:

[XcYZ]

Brett, glad you signed up and let us know more about the project. It's going to be great. :thumbsup:

[V8TV]

We just got the Global West goodies... we'll post the dates for the install episodes. Nice stuff.

- KO

[Autokraft]

Brett, you going to run that thing at Byron?



Kurt




www.autokraft.org

[2ndgenracer]

I don't get up north much, but if there's some events there possibly. Saw your site, you have some killer cars, any particular class you run up there?

[V8TV]

Well, it's coming to life, anyway. Here's the page with some video on the car.

http://v8tvshow.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=blogcategory&id=16&Itemid=78

Hydroboost, rear suspension, and engine build next...

- KO

[Hdesign]

Wow, looks great guys! Can't wait to see it in action!

[V8TV]

Of course YOU like it, Ben... You designed it! :thumbsup:

[Hdesign]

Nah, it was sorta "paint by number".LOL You and Brett came to the table with all the great ideas, I just put it on paper.:D

[tyoneal]

Hey guys,

I wanted to introduce myself. I live in Glen Carbon, IL it's about 20 min outside St. Louis, MO. I've been drag racing for about 18 years now and I’m finally making the move over to going around corners.

About the build on the 70 Firebird, most of all the parts and details will be on V8TV, or blogs on V8TVshow.com. I've just completed the mini tubs, and now that I have wheels/tires mounted I can start building the rear end. It will be a factory leaf spring car, I know there's better available, but I want to keep the car legal for some local 1/8 mile racing.

Front:
Global West tubular uppers/lowers
1.25" sway bar
QA1 coil overs
Baer brakes
18X9.5" CCW Classics 5.25" bksp Toyo RA-1 275/35/18
15X3.5” American Racing TrakStars MT-26X6
Rear:
Cal-trac split leaf lowered 2" w/Cal-trac bars
Afco sliders
Moly fabricated 9"
Moser center/axles w/35 spline Detroit locker 3.90 gear
Watts link
QA1 shocks
Baer brakes
18X12" CCW Classics 4" bksp Toyo RA-1 335/30/18
15X10” American Racing TrakStars 3” bksp MT-325/50/15 DR

I'll be running a 541 inch Butler Performance Pontiac, and for drag racing I'll be adding some spray. Look forward to seeing you guys at events this year.

Thanks,
Brett Evans
==========================================
Brett:

Just curious, what types of rear ends are not legal for drag racing?

Nice car BTW.

Ty

[2ndgenracer]

The two classes I'll try and compete locally in are drag radial and ez street. These require factory style rear suspensions. If your car was originally a leaf spring car, it must have leaf springs, or cars that have factory triangulated 4 links, like fox bodies are legal as well. As long as you haven't changed what came on the car from factory.

As far as the rear end you can run anything you want from a 10 bolt to a fabricated sheetmetal 9".

Brett

[V8TV]

Here's a quick blog on the Watts link Brett fabbed up on Splitter's rear end. He built it over a 3-day weekend at our shop.

http://v8tvshow.com/content/view/353/43/ (http://v8tvshow.com/content/view/353/43/)

- KO

[2ndgenracer]

Frank,

I just finished the tinted glass, and it looks killer. :thumbsup: I'll post some pics early next week.

Thanks,
Brett

[TonyG]

Awesome project.. Probably my favorite year for the Firebird.

[ProdigyCustoms]

Great Brett, Glad you like the smoked glass. Look forward to the pics

[cdoggy81]

How are we doing on this one?

[V8TV]

The car is coming along, the engine made around 870HP without the spray... we'll have the feature on that posted soon.

It should be going to the Chicago GoodGuys show this weekend, if anyone wants to see Splitter in person.

http://v8tvshow.com/content/blogcategory/16/78/

[cdoggy81]

870HP without the spray....
woooowzrrrrr!!!! Those Butler boys know how to build 'em :)

[mia]

nice build

[cdoggy81]

any updates?

[V8TV]

We plan on shooting and posting a Splitter update this week.

[2ndgenracer]

Here's the dyno video:

http://www.v8tvshow.com/forum/index.php?topic=78.msg151#msg151

[cdoggy81]

as Borat once said:
I like!!! :)

[COYBILT]

Ive been following this car and damn do I love it. Poncho power, trans am style,etc

keep up the good work:thumbsup:

[2ndgenracer]

Thanks for the support.

[c.schulz]

Keep us posted!!! Ive got a friend that is doing a 70 ta also.

Chris

[Bandit Ls-1]

that car looks awesome, and 820hp on motor is very nice, cant wait to actually see some pics of the car for more than 1second :willy:

[cdoggy81]

Chris,
Is he building a P.T. style 1970 TA? I am too :) Can I email you for his info?

Bandit Ls-1,
What are you doing with the shaker & the LS-1 on your TA?

[DOHC_GTS]

One of the coolest cars being built for sure

[COYBILT]

I just think its nice to see pontiac trans am, not another first gen camaro.

[Diognes56]

I have always liked the early 2nd gen Trans Ams. This one is going to be awsome :thumbsup: .

David

[cdoggy81]

How are we doing on this?
Any updates??? :)

[2ndgenracer]

Video of the Hydratech install is up next.

[Bandit Ls-1]

Chris,
Is he building a P.T. style 1970 TA? I am too :) Can I email you for his info?

Bandit Ls-1,
What are you doing with the shaker & the LS-1 on your TA?

cdoggy i havent gotten to that point in my build yet as im doing all the work myself on weekends or when i have free time in the garage but i was thinking of fabing my own "drop base" if its gonna need some more clearance because bolting the shaker to the hood is NOT an option. do u have any info on this?

[cdoggy81]

I'm working on something as well but it will be a while...

PM or email me for info :)

[2ndgenracer]

cdoggy81 and Bandit Ls-1,

Thought I'd share how I made my scoop. I was going to bend a piece of sheet metal or aluminum and use it as a base for the carb, but in order to drop it down enough it was going to be in the way of the fogger lines, and it was going to be a bizarre bend, not just a 90 degree bend, but a gradual slope. At this stage I could see bending a half dozen of these before I got it right. So to make life easy, I wanted something that would slide in and out of each other and adjustable. Once I had the scoop where I wanted it in reference to the fogger lines and how far the scoop was sticking out of the hood, I could then just drill through the solid stock and the tube and put a pin in it. Also when I'm at the track I can just pull the four pins and do a quick jet change.

It's not finished yet; I still need to put some black foam or seal around the edge to give it that factory look. I first welded the four alum. solid tubes to some 1/16th sheet then used epoxy to bond it to the fiberglass scoop (Shaker mount). Then to attach those to the motor I used 1/8" plate with alum tube for attaching to the valve cover bolts (Shaker mount 1). I'm sure there are a thousand easier/better ways of doing this, but this might give you some ideas on yours.

Later,
Brett

[cdoggy81]

I'm working on something that will work with the LSx engine & intake requirements.
What do you use for an air cleaner/filter? Looks neat & good thinking!

[2ndgenracer]

I'm still finishing the scoop, but I plan on running a K&N panel filter at the back of the scoop, and seal the carb to the scoop with foam. I found that K&N has a killer website where you can search filters by dimension. Punched in the numbers and it came up with three filters, used the cross reference and found the standard filter at the Zone and I'll make sure it will fit with little modification, and then I'll order the K&N.

[cdoggy81]

Smart :)
Looking forward to seeing some pics!

[2ndgenracer]

cdoggy,

Thanks. V8TV has been busy with other project cars for SEMA, so hopefully we should be back shooting pics and video's this month.

[cdoggy81]

Sounds great!
I'll try to contact you when you are not so busy. I am building a VERY similar car so I have a few questions & ideas to run past you :)

[2ndgenracer]

Car weighs 3992 minus the Fogger kit and bottle, with a 1/4 tank of fuel, race ready. 53.1% front 46.9% rear. Left side is 51.3% and right side 48.7% Car with out me in it is 3739.

[cdoggy81]

Nice :)

[V8TV]

UPDATE!

Splitter gets a Hydroboost install...

http://v8tvshow.com/content/view/464/78/

More Splitter videos to come next week!

- KO

[V8TV]

This time, Brett's getting ready to drop the 541 into Splitter's engine bay, and he's got a couple tricks to make this job go smoothly.

http://www.v8tvshow.com/forum/index.php?topic=78.msg590#msg590

[brownz]

This time, Brett's getting ready to drop the 541 into Splitter's engine bay, and he's got a couple tricks to make this job go smoothly.

http://www.v8tvshow.com/forum/index.php?topic=78.msg590#msg590

thanks for the update keep them comin :thumbsup:

[V8TV]

Splitter update:

It's alive!

In this video, Brett takes us through the Coan TH400 install with a CSR shield, TCI converter, and the Gear Vendor Overdrive install. When it's all buttoned up, the car comes to life for the first time on V8TV.

http://v8tvshow.com/content/view/478/1/

[deuce_454]

wow that car is just sick... everything one could ever want in a PT car...

love the "well propably see 1300 Hp... and who knows.. we might need a plate too.." comment,

[brownz]

love when the updates come out that car is one of the best sec gens.
:bow:

[GHOSTDANCER]

Looks great :thumbsup:

[2ndgenracer]

Updated pics...

http://www.v8tvshow.com/media2/Splitter_Driving.png

[2ndgenracer]

http://www.v8tvshow.com/media2/Splitter_Driving.png

[customcam]

what a beast man! when u fired her up i can see the happiness in you
congrats would love to see vid on her running with that awsome motor:cool:

[MODO Innovations]

http://www.v8tvshow.com/media2/Splitter_Driving.png
Great pic:thumbsup:

[BallnRods]

This project is inspiring me to go in the same direction with my Project.

My Drag racing roots are too deep to abandon. If it weren’t for drag racing I wouldn’t have this love for cars that I do in the 1st place.

I just had to get that out there.
~Chris

[cdoggy81]

Sweeeeeeet! Got any video of it?

[2ndgenracer]

Video should be up in a couple weeks.

[V8TV]

Splitter takes to the streets! This is an early drive through the country... Brett had the car at the track on the last day of the '07 season and it went mid 10's without the spray. We hope to have some track footage soon!

Video: http://v8tvshow.com/content/view/538/43/

http://www.v8tvshow.com/images/stories/videos/Splitter/SplitterDrive2.png

[V8TV]

Brett and Splitter are currently at the Hot Rod Pump Gas Drags... wish him luck!

[V8TV]

Splitter's first qualifying pass went 9.59 @ 143 on one of two nitrous kits... more to come

[c.schulz]

Splitter's first qualifying pass went 9.59 @ 143 on one of two nitrous kits... more to come



YA! Way to go Brett!!:thumbsup:

Chris

[BallnRods]

I can't wait to see the video!

Chris

[2ndgenracer]

Pump gas drags was an absolute blast. I recommend anyone signing up for it next year :thumbsup: . In order to get ready for the race, I swapped pistons out a couple weekends before the race from 14:1 to 10.5:1. I only have two passes on the 14:1 pistons and on motor it went a 10.49 and 10.55 with no tuning both at 131mph. When I went to 10.5:1 I only had about 6 passes, the best being an 11.19 at 124mph :wow: I think it still might run in the tens, but that was all the time I had before going to PGD. To let you know a little bit about some of the rules at PGD they give you 10 gallons of 93 octane Rockett brand fuel. You must complete a 30 mile drive from Comp Cams to Memphis Motorsports park run a maximum of two qualifying passes, then go two rounds before they give you any more fuel. In my mad thrash to make the event, I still needed to finish my NHRA license passes. My first two passes or qualifying passes at PGD went towards my final two that I needed for my license so I needed to make two good passes in the 9’s. On Friday night I was testing and hoping to get my license with no luck. I had the NOS fogger set at 300hp and the controller set at 40% start with all 300 in 3 seconds, and it just killed the tires. I learned a little from that and came up with leaving at 10% just to get 4100lbs moving.

First qualifying pass it went 9.59 @143mph with a 1.50 sixty foot, 6.12 @112 at the 1/8th :yes: . I had a blubber up top in 3rd gear, so instead of changing jets, I just added a 1/2lb of fuel pressure on the nitrous side fuel regulator. 2Nd pass it picked up going a 9.57 @136, I let out early because of the blubber still being there, added another 1/2lb for the next pass. I had my license signed off on by the track manager and a couple fellow racers. Now it was first round, I had the 2nd kit ready to go just in case someone was in front of me; I had the NOS Big Shot plate set at 225hp. I ended up qualifying 13th, again I was more concerned keeping the car hooked and finishing the license passes. I apologize for not knowing who I had in the first round, but I never had to go to the 2nd kit and by ½ track realized he was far enough back to let out and save fuel and NOS, coasting to a 10.0 @ 116mph :willy: . Sixty foot picked up with a 1.45 cars best to date. Rain came in and hail/tornado warnings before 2nd round said they would continue the race today Sunday May 11th A.K.A Mothers day. After a couple hours of debate with my buddies I decided it would be best to call it a day and head home. This is my wife’s first mother’s day, and my personal opinion of myself if I had stayed and raced would be a dead beat husband, I know not everyone’s opinion, but just what I thought was right.

I planned on being at Year One next weekend to meet a lot of people from the boards, but with work I have to fly out on Sunday, so it just made sense to do the event in my backyard. This coming weekend I’ll be at Gateway for the World Street Challenge running True street, it’s a 30 mile cruise with 3 back to back passes, I’ll let you know how it goes, hopefully Kevin or I can get some video up of the car making it’s passes there.

Later,
Brett

[72blackbird]

Brett,
I want to congratulate you on the fanastic job you did on Project Splitter- it's an inspiration and great example of a car that can excel on both the road course and drag strip, as well as your excellent craftsmanship. As a Pontiac Firebird owner, I'm also very happy you also kept it pure Pontiac and didn't stick a Chevy motor in it, as alot of uninformed Firebird owners would do. You've shown what most hardcore Pontiac fans already know- Pontiac V-8s can make serious power, more than enough to take the win.

The stance , wheel fitment, and ride height of your Firebird came out perfect- any advice and/ or refernces of how to duplicate that on my 'Bird? Your wheel/tire sizes are what I would like to fit those size tires on my car, but I'm not exactly sure where to start.

What are your plans in regard to road racing the car? Have you ever considered a time trial event like the Silver State classic in Nevada? Maybe that would make for some great episodes on V8-TV.

Geno

[2ndgenracer]

Geno,

Thanks for the kind words!

About fitting your car with what I did. The fronts are very simple 18X9.5 w/5.25 backspacing. Clears the fender, and clears the front factory placement anti-sway bar. Nothing in the front was moved or changed, Global west tubular control arms. I also run the Toyo RA1 275/35/18's.

The rear is really going to be custom. I decided what wheel/tire combo I wanted and made measurements from there. The car is mini tubbed, Kevin has a video at the V8TV site that talks about it, and I run a 18x12 with 4" backspacing and the Toyo RA1's 335/30/18's. The cool thing about your car is if you wanted to keep the factory rear end and not cut on it, you could mini tub, call up CCW or anyone else that makes a custom wheel that can get you the right backspacing to run an 18x12 with the 335's. I say custom since backspacing on most wheels would never be right, I'm guessing you would have a backspacing of almost 8". It doesn't have to be a 3 piece design; I've run Bogarts in the past on other cars with 7.25" backspacing on a 10" rim.

As far as road racing, I will be at the run through the hills event, and I'm trying to find a few other events/classes to run in. I followed the rules setting up the car for NASA, so I will make one of those events this year. I have thought about the Silver State, and hope to be able to afford to go. The car has a 3.50 gear currently, and with the Gear Vendor unit that number goes to 2.73, I haven't done any math on it yet, but I will probably need to change that for the event.

Thanks again,
Brett

[72blackbird]

Brett,
I was wondering why you running such a shallow backspacing for such a deep rim, but then I remembered you're also running drag rims and race slicks- smart design on the rear suspension. I do alot more road racing/autocross/ canyon running than drag racing, so I'll probably set my rear track width a bit wider. I haven't decided which type of rear suspension configuration I'm going to go with yet- any suggestions? I originally wanted to go with coilovers, a four-link, and panhard bar, but need more info if it will work better than the stock set up. Did you design the rear suspsension on your car? It seems very well thought out- I really like that Watts linkage for axle location.

I also considered going with an aftermarket front subframe, but after seeing your video on the front suspension buildup I think I will follow your example and run the parts you did. I need to dissassemble my front end and drop the factory subframe to check it for straightness, since I've been beating on my 'Bird for the last 20 years, but if it all checks out I'll clean it up and get back together. You used a preassembled Baer brake spindle/hub/rotor package- what rotor/ caliper size (p/n) did you use? Did you keep the factory 1 1/4" sway bar?

I like those CCWs you chose- how do they compare to the Forgelines in terms of weight and construction? I'm still undecided on rim choice, but I'm partial to the more modern five-spoke rims.

BTW, good choice on packing in on the racing to be home for Mother's Day- the last thing you need is to be in the dog house for missing something as important as your wife's first Mother's Day (congrats on the new baby as well).

Thanks for all the information and advice- please keep us updated on Splitter's performance and upgrades.

Geno

[2ndgenracer]

Geno,

With the right wheel/tire off set you can run a deep or shallow wheel shouldn't make a difference. Well you could argue that a wider rear end with shocks angled in the barrel of the wheel gives better handling. I have my shocks mounted out as far as I can get them. In the past on my builds I always run a shallow wheel with a ton of bkspce, just wanted to run a deeper wheel on this car.

As far as the front and rear suspension goes, again the old saying how fast can you afford to go comes to mind. Obviously there is way better than what I chose to do. There are a ton of great light weight aftermarket front stubs for 2nd gens, and the rear suspension is unlimited. I chose to run what I did due to some of the drag classes requiring stock suspension. I did design the rear, and I started putting Affco sliders in cars years ago, saw them in a dirt bowl magazine, and thought those might work. As far as the watts linkage in theory I didn't really design it per say, I looked at what was available on the market, copied from a couple vendors and put something together. It actually happened because I'm so tight with my money that I felt that for what was in these kits, I could do it my self. I'm glad I did, everything fits perfect, it's a real tight fit back there with the 3-1/2 inch tail pipes.

I run the Baer Track series in the front. It's a 13" rotor part# 4301041. Obviously the 18's clear these, but with the skinny 15's I ran a 1/4 inch spacer to clear. These come with the factory spindle, I did not run the drop spindle. In the rear I ran the Baer Sport series with a 12" rotor part# 4302066 for Big Ford ends, the part# for 10/12 bolt is 4302004. Again I would have put bigger brakes on it, but the limited tire selection for drag radials was the limiting factor. For the sway bar I have an Addco solid 1-1/4" sway bar.

In regards to the CCW's, I can only say very positive things about these wheels, they look killer for the price. As far as function, weight and the details, I could never afford Forgelines, so I never really investigated them. Last I checked CCW's were half the price. So can't really help you out there, and wheel choice is usually the toughest thing to decide on, it'll make or break a car.

Good Luck,
Brett

[72blackbird]

Brett,
The part choices you made for your 'Bird seemed right on target- more focus on go than show. I've had trick paint jobs, shiny rims and all the chrome on my 'Bird before, but ultimately it still has to back up the looks with power and performance. I don't have the budget for a 850 hp race-gas 541, but I think I can build a 600 hp pump-gas 462 that will do the job and not get me kicked out of the house.

The Forgelines are realistically out of my price range as well, considering I need to upgrade my drivetrain as well- they make the CCW's seem like a deal by comparison. They are also only available in 19" and 20", too big IMO for a second gen Firebird. I ran 15" rims up untill now (just put road race slicks on when I wanted to go racing :)), so I think 18's will do the job- those wheels are big enough for me.

There are so many choices when it comes to the front subframe, to be honest it's difficult to say which is best. But I think if I stick with the stock subframe I won't be excluded from running from most club racing/ autocross groups. I may have to have a 'stock appearing' rear suspension as well (no coilovers :( ), so I may have try those sliders out as well. But I may get away with the 4-link and Watts linkage- got to check the SCCA rule book on that.

Is V8 TV going to do any more episodes on the Splitter?

Geno

[2ndgenracer]

We should have some track footage coming up soon.

[dhondagod]

We should have some track footage coming up soon.


Well??? :unibrow:


Come on, its Friday! :woot: Set the pace for the weekend! :lateral: Lets see the video!!! :cheers:


Chris:cool:

[ProdigyCustoms]

Brett, are you doing Pontiacs in the Park in a couple weeks? Virginia?

[V8TV]

Brett went 9.30s at Gateway today... thinks the 8's are inches away. I think we're shooting some viddya tomorrow... we'll post when we can.

- KO

[2ndgenracer]

Frank,

It's not looking good, it's about a 14hr drive, and there is another event 13 hrs and 40mins closer here at Gateway. I'd prefer to go to the Pontiac event, but unless I win the lottery it's just not in the cards. As far as Pontiac events, I plan on attending the Ames Performance Pontiac Nationals August 8th-10th at Norwalk OH. Also if Larry Cooper has his event at Sikeston, MO I'll be at that one also. I'll be at the Eyes on Design show in June.

Later,
Brett

[2ndgenracer]

Last weekend I was at the World Street Challenge 1 event here in St. Louis at Gateway International Raceway. I entered Wild Street; your typical drive it 30 miles then 3 back to back passes, based off your 3 qualifying runs that puts you in a ladder for eliminations on Sunday. Most other classes just average your 3 passes, but the WSC event is cool since you run heads up based off your qualifying ladder. Friday they had a test and tune session, I drove it to the track, ~20 miles, made a single pass, went 9.35@147, with a 1.44 sixty, then drove home. On Saturday, I used the same bottle, these are 15lb bottles, thought I had enough to make 4 back to back passes, long story short the lights/timers failed so my first pass which should have been a 9. twenty something ended up being an 11.52@145 since the timers started once the tree activated early. I then had the option to make now 3 passes and throwing out the 11.52. So I toss that pass and now I’m going to start with my 3 back to back passes.

I’ve been driving through the converter on the big end, which means the converter is too loose, almost like a slipping clutch. So I decided for Saturday and Sunday I would start using the Gear Vendor over drive unit while racing. Passes from here on out, my shift pattern was 1st, 2nd, 2nd over, then 3rd. Once I click into overdrive it stays in overdrive, this means that my 3rd gear ratio is 2.73. I did this since I was already at my redline at about 700/800ft. The first pass it went 9.28@147 w/1.42 sixty and 5.96 1/8th@118. 2nd pass I started to run out of nitrous, went 9.76@134, then on the third pass, I turned off the fogger, and wanted to double check that the 2nd stage plate was working correctly, and just blipped the button a couple times, went 10.85@126. I really thought it would have had more mph clicking into another gear, but based off weight of the car and power, it still just blows through the converter, it’s at TCI getting tightened as I write this.

Sunday Sunday Sunday….eliminations, first round went 9.26@145 w/1.46 sixty 5.97@119 1/8th to a loosing 11.63/122. Next round I had the turbo mustang that just went 8.80@170. I decided to step it up for the next round, went to 15% on the leave, and had the 2nd kit ready to go. Went a 9.11@149 w/1.34 sixty 5.83@119 1/8th to a loosing 13.40@76. The amazing thing here is that the car sixty footed a 1.34 on drag radials @4100lbs with a Detroit locker. You can tell as I add more power the converter is just not happy, I think the car would have run the same ET just based off the sixty foot, I shouldn’t have touched the 2nd kit, but who knew! I hit the 2nd kit once I got into 2nd gear, and on that pass I took out the #2 piston. Went up for the semi finals, did my burnout and staged hoping the guy would redlight, but no luck, I think he went 9.40 something.

I was going to buy a couple of pistons, but they are 4 weeks out, so in order to make the Eyes on Design show in Detroit MI, I decided to just swap back to the 14:1 pistons. With the tighter converter and 10.5:1 I think it will run in the 8’s still. If my converter shows up by Friday I’ll run the car this weekend at the Muscle Car Reunion & Nostalgia Drags, with the higher compression. Kevin has the video should be up by end of week.

[2ndgenracer]

Pics from PGD....
http://i280.photobucket.com/albums/kk185/2ndgenracer/enginepgd.jpg
http://i280.photobucket.com/albums/kk185/2ndgenracer/purgePGD.jpg
http://i280.photobucket.com/albums/kk185/2ndgenracer/cruisepgd.jpg

[porkchop]

That is a great story. I wish I could've been there.Also don't you have a badass early Mustang.

[2ndgenracer]

Hey Porkchop,

I had a 65 fastback silver with blue stripes. I ended up selling it at Barrett Jackson to fund the Trans am project. Do you go to the Chuckaburger cruise nights?

[porkchop]

Brett, I think my friend Bill Biermen painted your mustang.And I meet you during the V8TV thrash on the Royal Purple Royal Sport camaro project.I had glorious task of color sanding and buffing the car. I have'nt been to chuk-a-burger in years. Mark

[cdoggy81]

Brett, what LB spring did you use with your QA1 coil over front shocks? 450# 550# ???

[cdoggy81]

Never mind... watched the video again, 450#.

OK, so then how do you like the ride of the 450# spring??? :)

[2ndgenracer]

I can't complain about the ride. I missed on the weight of the car, and thought the 450# would be a good starting point, but missing the total weight by 700lbs will change everything. Sorry I don't have any feedback yet from a road course, but just guessing at this stage, I'll need something stiffer. The car works almost too good at the strip, and I have the front end limited, so I know I have room to go to a stiffer spring and still work for drag racing. I've hammered a few cloverleafs on the highway, car is amazing, but they have been large sweeping ramps. I'm not sure about the real hard/short corners yet.

[cdoggy81]

Thanks for the info. I'm not trying to kill it on the road I just want it to ride nice & have the PT look + a little better performance but without bottoming out or riding like a stage coach... I would give up a bit of performance for a little better ride. I know most of the ride quality comes from the rear & I already have a Hotchkis Rear Leaf Spring kit (has a 1.5" drop & a little stiffer springs).

Did you lower the car in the front any & if so how did you do it? Drop spindles or just adjust the coil out?
The problem I'm running into is QA1 is saying a 350# spring BC of the LS1 I have up front (~250lbs lighter than an all iron Poncho mill). DSE recommends 550#. BIG DIFFERENCE... Also, people have said when you adj. the QA1 out you loose a lot of travel & it bottoms easy. Something I want to avoid! One member recommended the Speedway 91645552 hidden spring shim to help this.

Here is what I'm planning on going with so LMK what you think:

QA1 GMP3450-3 450# front coil overs w/ 12 way adj. shocks
QA1 TC2109P rear 12 way adj. shocks

I currently also have:
DSE-030102 Tubular Upper Arm Kit - 70-81
DSE-010201 Body Mounts- 1/2" Drop (this will also help out)
DSE-031402 FRONT SWAY BAR 1-3/8" HOLLOW 70-81
DSE-010103 SUBFRAME CONNECTORS 1970- 1981
To save $ I stayed with the stock lower arms but went with GW Del-Alum bushings.
Hotchkis Rear Leaf Spring kit

I did talk to Frank today & he recommended the old way...
Hotchkis 500# standard coil springs
Hotchkis f shocks
Hotchkis r shocks
2" Drop spindles

Not real sure about this + the added $$$...

Thanks for the help!

[cdoggy81]

Here is that speedway part. Not 100% how this works with the QA1...

[2ndgenracer]

Since you have an LS1 and are more concerned with the ride then definitely go with the 350#. If you can go to a 250# that might even be better since the LS1 is that much lighter. But before deciding between the 250 and 350 do you know what your front/rear weight is and total?

[cdoggy81]

No idea on total weight or F/R weight :(
Any idea how much lighter that LS1 will be comp to the all iron 455?

[2ndgenracer]

Sorry I don't have a clue on the weight difference. I would say invest a few bucks and scale the car, you'll have a much better idea of where you need to be. If the car isn't together yet and you can't weigh it, I would guess going with the 350# springs. If you aren't in a hurry I plan on swapping springs here in a few weeks, and I can send you these 450's to try out. The cool thing is they've been driven hard and have settled.

[cdoggy81]

Wow that's cool, no hurry. Thanks! I'll get the 350# ones & also try your 450# springs. I assume you are going with the 550# ones?

BTW, did you lower the car in the front any & if so how did you do it? I think you just adjusted the coil out but maybe you got drop spindles...

[2ndgenracer]

No drop spindles. The adjustability with a coil over is nice, but rumor has it you have to be close. I think all of the weight up front contributes to being able to get away with the lowered stance, but the collar is close to center. Another reason to scale your car, make sure you get your cross weights close. If you look at the video of Splitter in the beginning, don't be fooled by the ride height. That was when I just got the suspension together. I had the collar only adjusted 1/4-3/8 up on the threads. Here is a shot of the car properly adjusted. It used to sit a little higher than this, but both front and rear have settled 3/8" from driving.

http://i280.photobucket.com/albums/kk185/2ndgenracer/70PontiacTA.jpg

[cdoggy81]

Dude.... That is just sweeeeeet!!!!! Your stance is EXACTLY what I want mine to look like :thumbsup: :hail: :yes: :cool:
More pics please!

[dhondagod]

MAN those wheels are sexy!! :bow:



Chris:cool:

[Alex396ss]

Awesome!

:cheers:

Alex

[2ndgenracer]

Here are a couple pics of the 2nd gen billet hood hinges from Ring Bros.
http://i280.photobucket.com/albums/kk185/2ndgenracer/Ring2ndgenA.jpg
http://i280.photobucket.com/albums/kk185/2ndgenracer/Ring2ndgenB.jpg

[fleetus macmullitz]

Ouch!

Now that is a hinge.:wow:

[2ndgenracer]

Went and did a track day at Blackhawk farms, I have no clue why I've only been drag racing for 18 years when I could have been doing this. They have two more events one each month coming up. If anyone on the board is interested in doing this sign up before they fill up.

Splitter was awesome to say the least. I thought I was pushing the car hard I mean just out there doing it, until the instructor asked me "are you comfortable yet?" I say yes, and he says "well go ahead and get after the throttle." Basically he pushed me to get the car to slide, so either your car will push the front or the rear will come around, I'm glad the rear started to slide, they say pushing the front is very uncomfortable, or should I say will scare the bah-geezes out of you.

The only issue I had was at the end of the day I started having a brake fade issue, I'll need to change this before the next outing. This had something to do with 4100lbs hitting 130mph in the straight between turn 7 and turn 1. I didn't have a gun, but at the track in 3rd gear when my shift light comes on I go through the traps at 131.

I put a post with the link under racing events, if anyone wants to sign up.

Brett

[2ndgenracer]

I'm currently updating with twin turbos. I've also set up an on-line store. Send me an email if you have any turbo needs, and I'll get you set up. My web site is: www.OutlawTurboMotorsports.com

email me at: [email protected]

Brett
http://i280.photobucket.com/albums/kk185/2ndgenracer/80mm2.jpg

[OLDFLM]

Wholly Crap Brett! You're puttin' twin turbos on that thing!! You're gonna brake Dynomax's Dyno Challenge dyno!!! LOL

[2ndgenracer]

Splitter is for sale!

Build coverage by V8TV, Cover and feature Popular Hotrodding Nov 08, Hot Rod Oct 08, Fastest Street Car Nov 08, Nitto Calendar Oct 09. I'm taking offers before heading to Mecum Auction in May. If anyone here is interested PM me an offer.

Thanks,
Brett

[tyoneal]

Brett:

Why are you selling her, she looks so great and has a lot of years in her?

Ty

[2ndgenracer]

Hey Ty,

Like many I'm sure, I lost my job, and the market doesn't look real promising now. It's hard not to panic, in my profession (Biotech Sales) it takes every bit of 4-6 months to get placed somewhere. I have money to last about that long, but in today's market, I just can't take a chance loosing the equity in my house which is also for sale. Can't say my house is going to sell in 6 months, and selling the car is the only solution I have right now. I'm going to be real upset if I sell the car and then get a job a few weeks later, but I just can't take a chance by doing nothing and loosing everything. I've been working on a few cars for cash, but that just doesn't even come close.

Brett

[cdoggy81]

Damn buddy, that is tough to hear. I wish you the best of luck.

[tyoneal]

Hey Ty,

Like many I'm sure, I lost my job, and the market doesn't look real promising now. It's hard not to panic, in my profession (Biotech Sales) it takes every bit of 4-6 months to get placed somewhere. I have money to last about that long, but in today's market, I just can't take a chance loosing the equity in my house which is also for sale. Can't say my house is going to sell in 6 months, and selling the car is the only solution I have right now. I'm going to be real upset if I sell the car and then get a job a few weeks later, but I just can't take a chance by doing nothing and loosing everything. I've been working on a few cars for cash, but that just doesn't even come close.

Brett
===========================
Brett:

Take all this for what it is worth. I'm not trying to intrude.

I'm terribly sorry to hear about this, you have a beautiful car you have put so much effort and time into. I hope you find emplyment prior to any sale.

As a technical salesman in the Biotech arena your obviously no Dummy. I to was in Tech Sales (Aerospace Tooling Products) until 1989 when the Berlin Wall fell as well as the USSR.

I was able to find Employment selling structural Adhesives. For whatever it's worth, make sure and don't sell yourself short just looking for Biotech Sales oriented positions. I found, once you have been successful in a Technically oriented sales Job, that many companies will hire, "Proven Successful Sales People", even though they come from a different Technical Areas.

FWIW: Many people who understand the Technical Aspects of a product are very introverted people who are lacking in interpersonal communication skills. These are the skills a good salesmen has. I saw you speak on the V8 TV interviews, and you are a very good communicator.

If you haven't looked into the whole field of Technical Sales, you might give it a shot. With just the skills you have in the Biotech area, you have also shown you are technical ability to cross technical areas with the building of your car, and your ability to promote it, talk about it in front of a camera, etc.

Employers are also despritely looking for the Self Motivativing, Technically Oriented people who know how to promote and sell products in a difficult market that most companies are also finding theselves in.

This isn't meant to sound like a lame pep talk, but rather a observation of what we have seen of, "Just your Hobby". It's all very impressive and a good thing for your resume.

Hang in there, and I wish you all the best.

Keep us posted on your efforts, I'm sure their are many people who hope you find the job you need soon.

Take care and good luck,

Ty O'Neal

[deuce_454]

what is the price... i have a good friend who has been in the market for a 2´nd gen for ages... he has a couple of amg mercs and yours looks to more than stack up to his quality demands....

pm me if you have a price idea....

[2ndgenracer]

Ty,

Thank you for your kind words, and great advice. If you only saw my outtakes, you might not be so quick to say I'm good on camera.

Thanks,
Brett

[2ndgenracer]

I'm putting a reserve of $60k at auction. I think this is a very fair price as this doesn't include my time, and there is well over $60k in parts in the car.

I'd much rather sell the car before auction, as it will cost the buyer and me a percentage.

Brett

[tones2SS]

Sorry to hear about your job Brett.
The car is a BEAST, to say the least. It is a shame you have to sell it. I wish you the best of luck and things will turn around.
This car should sell for 60k "EASILY"!!!
Good luck!:thumbsup: :cheers:

[deuce_454]

got your PM, will get back to you in a couple of days:thumbsup:

[MarkM66]

What auction are you taking it to?

[2ndgenracer]

Mecum May 13-17th Spring Classic Indiana State Fairgrounds, Indianapolis, IN.

[10Seconds]

The economy is the only question mark because anyone who knows this car knows its worth well over that. Heck, I have almost that into my 78 and would trade right now.

Best of luck at the auction.

[MarkM66]

Mecum May 13-17th Spring Classic Indiana State Fairgrounds, Indianapolis, IN.

I just searched the cars to be sold, I didn't see yours.

What day ?

[2ndgenracer]

I actually sold the car to a guy over in NY. One of the guys over there bought my twin turbo 65 Fastback, and when I was talking with him he mentioned his buddy might be interested in a trade plus cash. Long story short, TA is in NY, and I now own a 71 Nova.