Penny Version 1.2

[Steve1968LS2]

Well tomorrow, May 31st, Penny goes onto the frame rack to get pulled back into shape. Hard to believe it's been three weeks already since she was hit.

A check from State Farm arrived today for $21,508.52 so that's a good thing. After the shop goes past this amount (and they will) State Farm said they will do supplemental checks until the car is completely fixed.

When I called State Farm to double check on this the adjuster, Kathy, said "OH! The Camaro!".. turns out everyone in the office had been checking out pictures of the car online. lol. They want me to send them copies of the August Super Chevy when it comes out. I must give State Farm an A+ so far in how they handled the claim. Then again, it was thier guys fault and he had a super high liability limit.

Anyways, let the games begin.. again. I will detail the rebuild of Penny and drop in little tidbits of how it is to deal with insurance.

She will look much the same as she did before except she will have an FUEL SAFE fuel cell with internal Bosch pump. The new tank will hang down less and have a cleaner look. It will also be safer then my old design with the exposed lines. Capacity will be almost 19 gallons. I had wanted 22 gallons but no off the shelf tank fit between my narrowed frame rails. That's certainly enough range.

I also want to take the time to up the gears to 4.10's and drop in some Recaro Seats. I will also have the backspace of the front wheels increased from 6.5 to 6.75 and swap from 600lb to 450lb springs.

The overall look of the car will stay the same except BOS will now have painted the whole car and that's a good thing. ETA is early August. I can also get little things like my e-brake handle, fire suppression system, GPS track system and stuff installed.

So, the first picture will be our starting point...

http://picsorban.com/upload/deadpenny.jpg

[Steve1968LS2]

Oh, and I plan on adding the CF hood from Stenod. Painted on the top and CF underneath. Might leave an accent stripe along the side of the cowl to show off the CF. It only weighs 19lbs compared to the 50+ pound stocker.

[HotRod68Camaro]

Glad to see its working out. I am definetely keeping reciepts for everything that i am putting back into mine.

[Steve68]

Sent you a PM on a item, to the rack with you!

[69Nova]

Awsome Steve. I'm glad to hear everything is working out for you.

[67ragtp]

Hey Steve,

Quick question for you, regarding your decision to change the front springs and drop from 600lbs to 450Lbs. Was it just too stiff up front, as far as ride quality? The reason I ask is Im running 600lb Afcos and it's not very forgiving in the bumps.

Man Im sick every time I look at that pic, you did an outstanding job building that car and I really look forward to seeing the magazine articles.

Rich

[Steve1968LS2]

Hey Steve,

Quick question for you, regarding your decision to change the front springs and drop from 600lbs to 450Lbs. Was it just too stiff up front, as far as ride quality? The reason I ask is Im running 600lb Afcos and it's not very forgiving in the bumps.

Man Im sick every time I look at that pic, you did an outstanding job building that car and I really look forward to seeing the magazine articles.

Rich

The car road great but was very stiff over harsh bumps. I just want to try some different combos and I think 450 might be a good starting point. Total weight on my front wheels is 1700 lbs.

[awr68]

Look forward to reading the rebuild thread!

I'm going to order new springs as well. Right now I have 9" 550#, but I need to raise the car up a bump and need to go to a taller spring to do so. I was thinking 10" 575# would be good...but now you got me worried that that might be too stiff. I know DSE SBC springs are 550#...perhaps I should stay there and just get them in 10"...your thoughts?

[67ragtp]

My bad- I just checked the springs in my car they are 50lbs more than I thought at 650lb/in @10". This thing rattles my teeth when it goes over bumps, Im a afraid the paint is going to crack off(maybe Im exaggerating a little). The car does handle like a go-cart, perhaps a 500 or 450 is the best comprimise.

Rich

[mdprovee]

Keep us updated with working with State Farm. Unfortunately, you are experiencing all of our worst fears, other than theft.

[the camtender]

The car road great but was very stiff over harsh bumps. I just want to try some different combos and I think 450 might be a good starting point. Total weight on my front wheels is 1700 lbs.

Steve,what's the total weight of Penny?

Jerry

[Steve1968LS2]

Steve,what's the total weight of Penny?

Jerry

Total weight with nearly 20 gallons of fuel is 3,340 with 1700 on the front and 1640 over the rear.

That's without me in it. I should be knocking 30-lbs off the front with the CF hood and I will going lighter in the back with the new tank. My goal is the have the car under 3,200 lbs dry.

[Derek69SS]

About a year ago, I sent out a buttload of frame-dimension chart copies to those who requested them here... PM me if you need one. :)

[PTAddict]

She will look much the same as she did before except she will have an FUEL SAFE fuel cell with internal Bosch pump. The new tank will hang down less and have a cleaner look. It will also be safer then my old design with the exposed lines. Capacity will be almost 19 gallons. I had wanted 22 gallons but no off the shelf tank fit between my narrowed frame rails. That's certainly enough range.


Steve,

Did you custom design that tank, or did Fuel Safe have something already done? I have a Fuel Safe in my '71 that I designed on CAD to match the dimensions of the stock tank - its a nice piece but it was spendy for the custom tank, and the bladder took up a lot more room than I thought - I bet my fuel capacity is no more than 13 gallons. Now I need a tank for my '69, and I'm not sure whether to go the FS route again ...

[Steve1968LS2]

Steve,

Did you custom design that tank, or did Fuel Safe have something already done? I have a Fuel Safe in my '71 that I designed on CAD to match the dimensions of the stock tank - its a nice piece but it was spendy for the custom tank, and the bladder took up a lot more room than I thought - I bet my fuel capacity is no more than 13 gallons. Now I need a tank for my '69, and I'm not sure whether to go the FS route again ...

They have a ton of "off the shelf" sizes to work with. If not for my narrowed rails they had a 22 gallon that was perfect. 18 gallons will be plenty and the off the shelf tanks are better internally than the custom units.

[Steve68]

oohhhoooh hh Do i hear CF trunk lid!!!!!!!:thumbsup:

[radrambler]

steven
glad to hear you got your check and have already started redoing penny...
when i saw the recent tail light article in the mag , i thought " damn guy in a truck didnt see them "
i guess youll get to dial her in now ...new article "how to make the best of a bad situation"


radrambler

[98ssnova]

Glad to hear you got the money hopefully your car will be done soon. And for the new article as mention above it should be titled this is what happens when other people don't pay attention.:wow: I wonder if his ins. company keep him after your bill:lol: :rofl:

[Bandit]

Glad to hear the re-rebuild is underway...sounds like State Farm is the shiznit! I will have to check them out when I return stateside.
Good luck and looking forward to seeing the progress! :thumbsup:

[Steve1968LS2]

Glad to hear the re-rebuild is underway...sounds like State Farm is the shiznit! I will have to check them out when I return stateside.
Good luck and looking forward to seeing the progress! :thumbsup:

Well, I don't know I would insure my classic through them, but they were always very courteous on the phone. They also paid with a minimum of arguing so for that I give them an A+. Then again I had a great case.

[Steve1968LS2]

And so the road to recovery begins. Penny is currently on the frame machine getting pulled back into shape. As I said they have the dimensions of a 68 Camaro and use that to know how far to pull. I think those dimensions come from a company called Mitchel.

Anyways, they still have some more pulling to do on monday then back to the shop for the real work. There's a 90% chance that the passengers side quarter panel will NOT have to be replaced. It's pulling almost perfectly back into shape. The drivers side is toast though. lol

On the frame rack
http://picsorban.com/upload/fix1.jpg

First day of pulling.. I think the rear panel is toast with those big holes. ;)
http://picsorban.com/upload/fix2.jpg

[GHOSTDANCER]

Should you not remove the tires and rims to prevent damage to them ?

Or do they need to be on there for this process ?

Good luck with the rebuild, can't wait to see her make a comeback :thumbsup:

[Steve1968LS2]

Should you not remove the tires and rims to prevent damage to them ?

Or do they need to be on there for this process ?

Good luck with the rebuild, can't wait to see her make a comeback :thumbsup:

You can't see it in the second picture but the rear wheels have been removed

[68protouring454]

And so the road to recovery begins. Penny is currently on the frame machine getting pulled back into shape. As I said they have the dimensions of a 68 Camaro and use that to know how far to pull. I think those dimensions come from a company called Mitchel.

Anyways, they still have some more pulling to do on monday then back to the shop for the real work. There's a 90% chance that the passengers side quarter panel will NOT have to be replaced. It's pulling almost perfectly back into shape. The drivers side is toast though. lol



mitchell is an estimating program for autobody repair and as an option also comes with the dimensions of any car almost ever made, so it can be pulled back into shape,, i imagine penny only needed to be pulled so the new panels can be installed, or did the rear rails get pushed forward?

[Steve1968LS2]

mitchell is an estimating program for autobody repair and as an option also comes with the dimensions of any car almost ever made, so it can be pulled back into shape,, i imagine penny only needed to be pulled so the new panels can be installed, or did the rear rails get pushed forward?

They got pushed just a tad forward. The trunk lid was tweaked around as well. By pulling the car "back into shape" it will be much easier to install the new sheetmetal. Like I said, there's a good chance we can save the passengers side quarter panel since it's pulling very good so far.

The dimensional data on the car is pretty cool.

[awr68]

Let the progress begin!!

I would think that the full cage helped keep the car basically in the correct form....I wonder if it would be a total if not for those down bars??

[Phewes]

good to see everything are already covered!

its kinda sad seeing a beautiful work getting hit like that. :(

it sure will be better than ever when done!

[Garage Dog 65]

Steve,

While it is cool to see what a shop can do to pull damaged cars back into shape - it's killen me to watch your finished ride go through the chains. Coulda done the demonstration on a Pinto or a Gremlin - or a Thing !!! What a waste to see your car get crumpled like that. Let's hope she comes out better then ever. Best of luck as we watch the "Full Pull".

Jim

[Steve1968LS2]

She's off the frame rack and looking MUCH better. They were able to save the passengers side quarter, but, as you can see, the rear panel is a bit.. uh.. beat. lol

The drivers side quarter is a ton better but would be better replaced than messed with. Next week we start cutting and fixing.

Cost for the time on the rack.. over $2000

http://www.lifeinwidescreen.com/siihp/crash3.jpg

I will post a few more later.. from the side it hard to tell it was hit.

[customcam]

u must be pleased Steve seeing it get built again
Good stuff man dont you love steel :thumbsup:

[J2SpeedandCustom]

Looks way way better already Steve!

[comp-spec]

nice work

[PTAddict]

Wow, looking way better already. You must feel a lot better now that it's on the road to recovery, even if there's a long way to go.

[Steve1968LS2]

Before:

http://www.lifeinwidescreen.com/siihp/crash4.jpg

After:

http://www.lifeinwidescreen.com/siihp/crash5.jpg

On the frame rack:

http://picsorban.com/upload/fix2.jpg

[Spiffav8]

The before and after pics are pretty impressive! Glad to see things straightening out so well.

[HWY Nova]

Good as new!...... Almost.

[buickfunnycar.com]

Wow...pretty frickin amazing if you ask me Steve!:thumbsup:
You must me happy with the progress so far.

[Bandit Ls-1]

thats looking real good man, glad to see the car coming back together.

[Steve1968LS2]

Let the cutting begin!

http://picsorban.com/upload/stripped.jpg

http://picsorban.com/upload/pennyshot.jpg

[HotRod68Camaro]

:omg:

[GHOSTDANCER]

:wow:

[frankenstang]

Those last pictures make baby jesus cry!!!

Yeah...umm...good luck with that.

I see another article in the works.

[Steve1968LS2]

Those last pictures make baby jesus cry!!!

Yeah...umm...good luck with that.

I see another article in the works.


No biggie.. Just you're run of the mill quarter panel and rear panel replacement story.

They were original panels (except the inner rear panel) so the insides were a bit "vintage" looking.. but solid.

Need to clean up all the edges, coat everything in some POR-15. Built a frame for then new fuel cell and start putting it all back together.

Like my shop said "this is as bad as it's going to look, it's all better from this point."

[tones2SS]

She's looking better each post Steve.
She's a hot car to begin with. GOOD LUCK with everything.:thumbsup: :thumbsup:

[Steve1968LS2]

The shop has cleared out the cars ahead of me and can now work full time on Penny.

New quarter and rear panel being test fitted. Next up is to pull the old tank and build a new trunk floor. Oh, and fix the passengers side rear quarter.

http://www.lifeinwidescreen.com/siihp/pennyfix.jpg

[mazspeed]

Sweet. You will have your car done before mine.

[ItDoRun]

Steve,
What are they using to fill the seam at the roof skin and quarter?

[Musclerodz]

Sweet. You will have your car done before mine.
Twice!

Mike

[olds87]

She coming together nicely man, and going to be awsome later on. :thumbsup:

[awr68]

Nice progress!! Thanks for the update!!

[mazspeed]

Twice!

Mike

Yeah I know. :(

[57hemicuda]

Its hard to beleive that the Tiwain parts fit as well as they do.That thing is looking good.Did you get your cf hood,how do you like it? Ron

[Lenie]

Your Penny looked nice in the Magazine article this month. Congrats, hope she's well soon.:thumbsup:

[steveo346]

wow its awesome that they are giving u that much money to fix it....hope it comes out better than before buddy:cheers:

[Steve1968LS2]

Its hard to beleive that the Tiwain parts fit as well as they do.That thing is looking good.Did you get your cf hood,how do you like it? Ron

Not yet, but Joe at Stenod said "any day now".. expensive, but should be cool and that's another 30 lbs off the front of the car :woot:

[Steve1968LS2]

Update..

My new 18.5 gallon FUEL SAFE bladdered fuel cell arrived. We should have the cage done for it by tomarrow.

The cell top:
http://picsorban.com/upload/shop 118.jpg

Without the top (the bladder):
http://picsorban.com/upload/shop 117.jpg

From the back (cage not welded in yet) - Just barely hangs down...
http://picsorban.com/upload/shop 115.jpg

[GHOSTDANCER]

Looking great :thumbsup:

[Reckley]

Steve,

The progress looks great! By looking at the pics it appears that the repop quarter panel fits pretty well. Could you let us know how well it really fit? Did your shop have to modify to the panel for fitment?


Mike

[mazspeed]

She's looking great Steve. Getting close. There is still some driving time you and I will see this summer yet. :unibrow:

[Rybar]

Looks awesome Steve. :thumbsup:

[ItDoRun]

Mike,
I just replaced the driver's side quarter as well, and it almost fit perfect right out of the box. The door gaps are amazing. The body man had about 2-3 hours of work on the door jamb and lower rear valence combined. I ordered a Golden Legion panel from Brian at CPU car parts. $299 plus $95 shipping. This is the same panel that Goodmark sells for a lot less. By far the cheapest I found.

Chris

[Reckley]

Thanks Chris :thumbsup:

[Steve1968LS2]

Steve,

The progress looks great! By looking at the pics it appears that the repop quarter panel fits pretty well. Could you let us know how well it really fit? Did your shop have to modify to the panel for fitment?


Mike

Will give a more detailed review after Monday.. that's when we're welding it on :)

So far so good though.

[Steve1968LS2]

The "cage" for the new fuel cell..

The mounting rack:
http://picsorban.com/upload/shop 119.jpg


With the can, tank and top installed:
http://picsorban.com/upload/shop 122.jpg

[HotRod68Camaro]

Looks good. Where did you buy it from? Direct from Fuel Safe?

[Reckley]

Will give a more detailed review after Monday.. that's when we're welding it on :)

So far so good though.

Thanks Steve, Looking forward to the review. You could really help me decide between buying some repops or trying to fix the OEM quarters.

Mike

[L8ONBRAKE]

So when its done, is it going to see the track or only magazine testing with cones and stuff?

[Steve1968LS2]

So when its done, is it going to see the track or only magazine testing with cones and stuff?

Both.. the track will mostly be auto-x and Open-track days at places like Buttonwillow.. no fender to fender stuff, I can't afford to keep building it.. lol

Oh and drag racing on an alternate set of rollers :D

Looks good. Where did you buy it from? Direct from Fuel Safe?

Yea, I bought direct from Fuel Safe.. lead time was about 2.5 weeks. I talked with Gary at extension 234

[L8ONBRAKE]

Killer gas tank, how much do they run? Although it is a really nice tank, its also nice to know the stock one can take some good abuse after that major rearend!

[Steve1968LS2]

Killer gas tank, how much do they run? Although it is a really nice tank, its also nice to know the stock one can take some good abuse after that major rearend!

Actually I had a custom stainless tank in the car. It dented in but didn't breech which shows the quality of the tank's from Rick's Stainless tanks.

This tank was right aroud $1800 complete.. that includes the pump, sender and all the widgets.

[Lenie]

Looks to be going back together very nice, with a few positive extras. Very nice indeed!:thumbsup:

[awr68]

Looking good Steve!!

[Steve1968LS2]

Looks to be going back together very nice, with a few positive extras. Very nice indeed!:thumbsup:

Something about "getting handed lemons and making lemonade" .. lol

Still, I'd rather be driving her right now..

[R67Chevelle]

Something about "getting handed lemons and making lemonade" .. lol

Still, I'd rather be driving her right now..


I picked up PHR today. I really enjoyed the article on Penny and insurance. Great info for us guys. Sorry this happened to you, but because of this you have educated many classic guys and gals... Thanks for the value you and PHR provides to all of us. Ive been buying PHR since the 80's... Time to renew the subscription...:thumbsup:

Blesssings,

[Steve1968LS2]

Steve,

The progress looks great! By looking at the pics it appears that the repop quarter panel fits pretty well. Could you let us know how well it really fit? Did your shop have to modify to the panel for fitment?


Mike


Here's the deal.. I had an OEM panel and a Repo panel (Goodmark) and compared them.

The GM panel was maybe 10,000th thicker.. just barely compared to the Goodmark panel. The initial fitment of the GM panel was just a bit better than the Goodmark unit.. but..

The Goodmark panel was $300 and the GM panel was $1100. The Goodmark panel would need about 5 hours labor to look as good as the GM panel. 5 hours at $75 and hour is $375. So the Goodmark panel is $425 cheaper in the end. That's a lot of $$$

Also, in the door jamb there a stamp from the factory.. on the Goodmark panel this was clear and sharp. On the GM panel the stamp was barely there. This confirms what I've heard and that is that many of the NOS GM panels were "factory rejects" that weren't good enough for production but good enough for the parts bin.

In my opinion you should save the money and get the Goodmark quarters. The only time I can justify NOS (OEM) panels is when you have a restoration where using all GM stuff adds to the value of the car.

The second gen Goodmark quarters fit better than the GM quarters.

[BRIAN]

There is also a difference between early OEM sheetmetal and those produced 15-20?? years later. Lines not as sharp as tooling gets worn. I had seen 2 fenders side by side where one was stored for years and the other in the 80's was fairly new. You could see a slight difference.


The guys that complain about the aftermarket parts are collison guys who are used to having cheap offshore repo parts shoved down their throats by Insurance Co's. Those parts are not licensed and can only replicate the part by like 80% without copyright problems. That 20% can mean it fitting or not.


Most of the newer endorsed sheetmetal is just as good as OEM lacking maybe a dimple or date code. Looking at the panel itself installed correctly it is hard if not impossible to tell the difference. The days of 1/2 panels that had the edges just left unfinished are hopefully in the past.

I would think a fender or hood is a better piece to judge because either it bolts on or it doesn't. A 1/4 panel has a sort of fudge factor where it can be adjusted or cut and modified.

[Reckley]

Thanks for the info Steve and Brian,

Since I'm doing the body work myself, I want to minimize the amount of modifications required to the panel to fit. I currently have OEM quaters that have been on the car for well over 20 years. Do to a poor installation by the previous owner, the panels are damaged around the flange areas and rear tail panel. I need to do some work to get them to right again. So, basically I've been trying to determine which panels would require more work, new Goodmark panels or my damaged OEM panels.

Steve, do you happen to know what modifications were performed during the 5 hours your shop took to get the panel on?

I'm also curious why everyone likes Goodmark so much. Are they reworking the panels that come out of Asia? I was under the impression that all repop panels were stamped in the same factory.

Thanks again for all the good info its been a real help :thumbsup:

Mike

[trapin]

I have a Goodmark drivers door skin and Goodmark hood on my car. Both fit beautifully.:thumbsup:

[TA219]

i wish i would have waited for the new stampings that are out now, mine didnt fit nearly that well!

[Steve1968LS2]

The major bodywork is done and the car went to the spray booth to have the worked areas primered. Then some more finish body work and paint.

http://picsorban.com/upload/shop 139.jpg

Also, the floor of the trunk was finished and painted with the fuel cell mount welded in place.

http://picsorban.com/upload/shop 144.jpg

[HotRod68Camaro]

Looking good.:thumbsup: Very nice install of the fuel cell cage

[awr68]

Looking good Steve!! It's nice to see that they are back on the project and making great progreess...especially since there's a deadline involved!! Can't wait to see her at SEMA!! :thumbsup:

[markss28]

glad to see things are moving so fast. Cant wait to see her done.

[Sales@Dutchboys]

Looks great Steve,

And its great to see that they are taking the extra step to make sure everything is right...:)

Paul

[jimbo]

With all of the concern with fuel tank saftey, are you putting in an inertia switch to shut off the fuel pump. Ford has used them on most late model cars. Easily adaptable to your aplication.

[Steve1968LS2]

With all of the concern with fuel tank saftey, are you putting in an inertia switch to shut off the fuel pump. Ford has used them on most late model cars. Easily adaptable to your aplication.

Yea, I have the switch but I need to go buy the pigtale so I can wire it in. Know the part number?

If I pull a g in a turn I wonder if that will trigger the switch? Nobody can tell me how many g's it takes to trigger.

[Streetking]

Looks really nice Steve.

SW

[jimbo]

I dont think they sell the pig tail seprate. I went to the local pick a part and cut what I needed.

[novanutcase]

Thrashing for SEMA????!!!:lol: :thumbsup:

John

[Steve1968LS2]

I dont think they sell the pig tail seprate. I went to the local pick a part and cut what I needed.

Good idea.. do you know which Fords had this?

[Steve1968LS2]

Being color sanded after being blocked... will get primed again and them prepped for paint.

Also, got confimation that my CF hood is being molded and is will be here in a week or two. Going to leave the bottom CF and the top painted except for the side of the cowl.

As you can see the guys at BOS LOVE thier job..

http://picsorban.com/upload/shop 146.jpg

[HRBS]

Looks good Steve.
Panel fitment with trunk & doors was good ?
How do they propose to "fade / blend" that color ?
(or are you doing the entire car sinces its a new hood as well as back half)

[Steve1968LS2]

Looks good Steve.
Panel fitment with trunk & doors was good ?
How do they propose to "fade / blend" that color ?
(or are you doing the entire car sinces its a new hood as well as back half)

The whole car is being painted because BOS wanted to make sure it looked perfect. Well, we arn't painting the engine bay, but everything else is a go.

Fit was good. Had to mess with the Goodmark trunk lid a bit but it wasn't too bad (the upper gap was a bit big so it was closed up)

Door fit great.

[Yard Dawg]

Good idea.. do you know which Fords had this?

I believe every EFI Mustang had one. (On the taillight panel)
Some Rangers and Explorers had them too. (Up against the firewall under the glove box)

Steve

[Roger Poirier]

Ok, what are you doing with the interior before SEMA if anything?

You still need a different type spoiler up front with vents to make that thing Super Badass. :faint: Easy for me it's your money plus I know you have little time.... :unibrow:

R.P.

[jimbo]

I believe every EFI Mustang had one. (On the taillight panel)
Some Rangers and Explorers had them too. (Up against the firewall under the glove box)

Steve

Escort, Tracer, T-Bird, Cougar and I"m sure there were others. You may have to go and compare plugs to the switch. If you have a part number from the switch a dealer maybe able to give a specific application.

[Steve1968LS2]

Escort, Tracer, T-Bird, Cougar and I"m sure there were others. You may have to go and compare plugs to the switch. If you have a part number from the switch a dealer maybe able to give a specific application.

I believe every EFI Mustang had one. (On the taillight panel)
Some Rangers and Explorers had them too. (Up against the firewall under the glove box)

Steve

Thanks guys!

[Steve1968LS2]

Ok, what are you doing with the interior before SEMA if anything?

You still need a different type spoiler up front with vents to make that thing Super Badass. :faint: Easy for me it's your money plus I know you have little time.... :unibrow:

R.P.

The interior will have the fire system, track computer and just the basics like a covered roll cage and carpet. I don't think I will have the $$ or time to do custom door panels, but the panels on there now go well with the vibe of the car... It should look a lot like this:

[Steve1968LS2]

Ok, what are you doing with the interior before SEMA if anything?

You still need a different type spoiler up front with vents to make that thing Super Badass. :faint: Easy for me it's your money plus I know you have little time.... :unibrow:

R.P.

The interior will have the fire system, track computer and just the basics like a covered roll cage and carpet. I don't think I will have the $$ or time to do custom door panels, but the panels on there now go well with the vibe of the car... It should look a lot like this:

http://picsorban.com/upload/show3.jpg

[HotRod68Camaro]

but the panels on there now go well with the vibe of the car...
I agree. I was wondering, under your leather shifter boot, do you have a rubber one? or is it just the hole and the leather boot?

[Steve1968LS2]

I agree. I was wondering, under your leather shifter boot, do you have a rubber one? or is it just the hole and the leather boot?

Yea, I sealed a rubber one under it to keep water and junk out.

[JamesD]

Yea, I have the switch but I need to go buy the pigtale so I can wire it in. Know the part number?

If I pull a g in a turn I wonder if that will trigger the switch? Nobody can tell me how many g's it takes to trigger.


A lot of the guys running 5.0 mustangs on road courses usually disconnect them while at the track.

[Steve1968LS2]

A lot of the guys running 5.0 mustangs on road courses usually disconnect them while at the track.

That seems to somewhat defeat the purpose... lol

[Steve1968LS2]

Houston, we have color.. :woot:

http://picsorban.com/upload/shop 164.jpg

http://picsorban.com/upload/shop 166.jpg

The rest will be painted on Saturday..

[XcYZ]

Awesome. :cool:

[GeoffP]

I know you're ready to have it back drivable again. It's looking good!

GeoffP
87 Camaro LT1/4L60E
68 Camaro LT1/T-56

[JamesJ]

That seems to somewhat defeat the purpose... lol


Well it does not make for a good day when is activates when it was not suppose to and you loose the race, or if you bump into someone (roadrace) and your fuel shots off, then you done.

[buickfunnycar.com]

I know you're ready to have it back drivable again. It's looking good!

Yeah...just try to avoid idiots this time.:yes:

[JamesD]

That seems to somewhat defeat the purpose... lol


When you tap into people on the track ( although iI doubt this will be a problem for you) they can some times cut your fuel. Also off road excursions at the track tend to set them off. The general consensus is that they are a little to sensitive for track use.

[Steve1968LS2]

Today BOS shot the sealer. We were going to paint, but the temp got to be over 100 degrees and Joe was worried that the paint would dry too fast and wouldn't lay down nice.

He's going to come in EARLY Monday and shoot the paint when it's cooler.

The sealer is almost the shade of the paint. lol.. Anyways, it's nice to see her looking like her old self.

http://picsorban.com/upload/fixpen1.jpg


Oh, and we ripped the 302 out of the Fairlane.. that was a messy 3 hours..

[race-rodz]

****cough****
showcar
****cough****

j/k....but its gonna look lots better with rock chips and rubber slung all over the qtrs.

[mazspeed]

I didn't know you were shooting the whole car Steve. Looks great though. Bodywork looks very well done.:thumbsup:

[KPC67]

Looks good Steve, I bet you are Getting excited to have it back on the road!

That sealer they used is just an epoxy primer right?

[bigtyme1]

Steve, whats he using to keep a paint linr out of the Jams? I wanted to paint my car all togethor but most people tell me to do it in pieces.

[Steve1968LS2]

Looks good Steve, I bet you are Getting excited to have it back on the road!

That sealer they used is just an epoxy primer right?

Yea, Charlie from Foose taught them some trick where they seal the car then go over it one more time before paint. The whole painting thing is witchcraft to me.. lol

The front of the car is just the paint they did before the accident sanded down. Body lines look very good.

I'm about a month from getting her back then I have one month for interior and finishing touches.. I love deadlines.. ;)

I didn't know you were shooting the whole car Steve. Looks great though. Bodywork looks very well done.:thumbsup:

Yea, that way they can insure the pearl all flops the same way and that it looks "right"

The only area not painted is the engine bay.

They will be spending about 40 hours color sanding the car :wow:

****cough****
showcar
****cough****

j/k....but its gonna look lots better with rock chips and rubber slung all over the qtrs.


lol.. don't be a hater ;)

To be honest when BOS heard the car was going to SEMA they stepped it and wanted it to be as good as possible. My door gaps arn't perfect and all that "showcar" stuff, but she's as straight as an arrow and BOS is really taking care of her. They have real pride in thier work.

I will try to keep her nice for SEMA.. then rock chips. lol

Although the X-Pel on the quarters will help a bit.

[Steve1968LS2]

Steve, whats he using to keep a paint linr out of the Jams? I wanted to paint my car all togethor but most people tell me to do it in pieces.

It's almost strange to watch but it's just a way they have of taping and papering the car to keep the paint out. The tape is folded over and creates a sort of gasket that keeps the paint out and still lets them paint the edge. It took several hours to mask off the car, but it works.

I don't know if it matters but the first time the car was painted in pieces, maybe that's why it works together this time. Maybe a painter will chime in.

[race-rodz]

by folding the tape over, you get a "soft" tape edge, when this is right on a corner, it isnt even noticable.

anthony's car is also getting painted all together, but it will be done a lil different, all the tape edges will be on factory "overlap" joints. which takes even longer to mask.

the whole idea of painting a car all together has a couple "pros"

#1 no chipped edges during reassembly

#2 some colors are 99% impossible to paint in panels and have them match. painting it all together means that everyplace a panel meets matches perfectly.

the cons....

#1 masking....lots and lots of masking

#2 its easier to spray panels, not worried about running around the car trying to keep it all wet and perfect.... this gets even harder when the jams and such get painted at the same time as the outside.

the idea of the same color sealer is that most of the cool colors today are very transparent, so the sealer does the job of "hiding" and making everything one color. it also gives one last chance to fix anything that may have been missed..... btw, take a close look at the qtr to roof seam, looks like a lil spot needs a lil more attention, or its just a photo reflection that looks like a low spot.


and im just being a smartass about the showcar thing, i would also step it up knowing what the plans are the end of oct.:thumbsup:

[Steve1968LS2]

btw, take a close look at the qtr to roof seam, looks like a lil spot needs a lil more attention, or its just a photo reflection that looks like a low spot.


and im just being a smartass about the showcar thing, i would also step it up knowing what the plans are the end of oct.:thumbsup:

That's where my lackluster Photoshop skills tried to remove a big bugger on my CCD element in my Camara.. time to take it in for a tune up. lol

Good eye though.. I fixed the spot on the door better. Shaded areas give me hassle.

The main reason for shooting my car together is that we didn't want to blow the front apart again. And I know you're just ribbing me on the show-car deal. To be honest it will go to shows, then the track, then more shows, then out for burgers... it's just gonna go ;)

[LateNight72]

Very nice.. I would just leave it in sealer and drive the hell out of it. :unibrow:




Not trying to be an A-Hole but it looks like the rear trunk lid is "bowed" in the middle. :question: Looks like a good 1/8"-3/16" above the quarter?

-Todd

[Steve1968LS2]

Very nice.. I would just leave it in sealer and drive the hell out of it. :unibrow:




Not trying to be an A-Hole but it looks like the rear trunk lid is "bowed" in the middle. :question: Looks like a good 1/8"-3/16" above the quarter?

-Todd

Cept only the back half is sealed.. and I actually like paint.

Doesn't look that way in person, also it's just wired down right now for paint (not fully closed). and if the gap isn't perfect I really don't care. Never been much into door-gaps and stuff. So long as it look nice and the panels are straight. I'm already getting a much nicer paint job than I paid for :yes:

[LateNight72]

Cept only the back half is sealed.. and I actually like paint.

Must be that I am just itching to get the 'Velle driving. :lol:

Doesn't look that way in person, also it's just wired down right now for paint (not fully closed). and if the gap isn't perfect I really don't care. Never been much into door-gaps and stuff. So long as it look nice and the panels are straight. I'm already getting a much nicer paint job than I paid for
:thumbsup:

[race-rodz]

That's where my lackluster Photoshop skills tried to remove a big bugger on my CCD element in my Camara.. time to take it in for a tune up. lol

Good eye though.. I fixed the spot on the door better. Shaded areas give me hassle.

The main reason for shooting my car together is that we didn't want to blow the front apart again. And I know you're just ribbing me on the show-car deal. To be honest it will go to shows, then the track, then more shows, then out for burgers... it's just gonna go ;)


well i just happen to be working on that same area today...so yeah, it was the first thing i noticed:D i wasnt sure if it was just the edge of the booth light reflection or ????.

[Garage Dog 65]

... it's just gonna go ;)

THAT's the way I like them Steve, Powerfull, Clean AND Driven !

Best of luck !!

[Steve1968LS2]

And she's painted...

Low res shots from the shop.. I will snap "fancy" ones on Wednesday. They barely had time to get her shot today before the temps got too crazy. Was 106 in the shop at 2:30pm.. eek!

http://picsorban.com/upload/shop 171.jpg

http://picsorban.com/upload/shop 170.jpg

[J2SpeedandCustom]

Looks really good Steve can't wait to see her at SEMA! :thumbsup:

[melman109]

Looks really good! can't wait to see her back on the road:thumbsup: :thumbsup:

[race-rodz]

what ever happened to the "bad panny" tat idea?

[Steve1968LS2]

what ever happened to the "bad panny" tat idea?

John McBride is still working on it. I will be incorporated SOMEWHERE on the car. Not sure about on the fender. Sorta depends on if it can be done tastefully and not look too overboard.

[camcojb]

looks great Steve. Glad they shot the whole car, I can't imagine trying to match and blend that color.

Jody

[7TSS]

Wow.....looking good. Can't wait to see it finished.

[Steve1968LS2]

looks great Steve. Glad they shot the whole car, I can't imagine trying to match and blend that color.

Jody

Well, remember that when we did the LS2 they painted the hood and front fenders. They did a great job matching but the paint on that end of the car was smoother than the back half of the car. We were just going to do to the front fenders, but when they heard about SEMA they wanted to make sure that it was as nice as it could be. It's a big deal for BOS that the car will be there.

It's nice knowing the the whole car is shot the same. I will cry when I get the first rock chip then get over it and not care.. lol

The rocker panels will be getting Xpel'd

[Steve1968LS2]

All I need is my "Larry" gas cap and Marquez tail lights.. :yes:

Before:
http://picsorban.com/upload/bash1.jpg

After:
http://picsorban.com/upload/shop 168.jpg

[mazspeed]

Looks great Steve. I think you will have some summer left to drive the thing, if not fall.

[Rybar]

Does look good Steve, looks like you guys are progressing Fast. :thumbsup:

[steveo346]

THATS AWESOME THAT YOUR GETTING PENNY BACK ON THE ROAD STEVE:cheers: :woot:

[Musclerodz]

What is X-pelled. I am guessing it is a chip guard, but is it permanent or temporary?

Mike

[Steve1968LS2]

What is X-pelled. I am guessing it is a chip guard, but is it permanent or temporary?

Mike

Here you go.. more than you ever wanted to know.. lol

http://www.xpel.com/

[mazspeed]

Hey Steve. If you don't mind me asking, what are they charging you to put that xpel on?

[Steve1968LS2]

Hey Steve. If you don't mind me asking, what are they charging you to put that xpel on?

Not sure, I will let you know. But, it's not crazy expensive and certainly cheaper than paint.

Ask Kevin at CAR, they put stuff like it on the orange/black 69.

[mazspeed]

Not sure, I will let you know. But, it's not crazy expensive and certainly cheaper than paint.

Ask Kevin at CAR, they put stuff like it on the orange/black 69.

Yeah it's pretty pricy, but the guy who did Steve's car is someone I went to high school with, but a few years older. He says he will hook me up as we have common friends.

[GvEman]

Nice to se your car coming back to life! This is defenatly one of my absolute favorite Camaro's! I just love the combo of race and street! And those wheels are just Beautifull with that paint! Awesome man and glad to se you fixed the "dent" ;)

[eville]

Yeah it's pretty pricy, but the guy who did Steve's car is someone I went to high school with, but a few years older. He says he will hook me up as we have common friends.

Maz,
is that XPEL person local to the Bay Area? I'm thinking about getting some applied. Those NT01s throw rocks hard!

[Steve1968LS2]

Out of the paint booth.. indoors...

http://picsorban.com/upload/newpaint1.jpg

Outside in the sunshine...

http://picsorban.com/upload/newpaint3.jpg

A HUGE thanks to the crew at Best Of Show Coachworks for getting her back to health. A first class shop ran buy first class gearheads. I can't wait to see her after 40 hours of color sanding and buffing! :woot:

[Rybar]

Looks pretty awesome Steve, I like your new wheels :lol:

[melman109]

Looks good! going to look even better after the color sanding and buffing :D :thumbsup: :woot:

[Steve1968LS2]

Looks pretty awesome Steve, I like your new wheels :lol:

If you like chrome rims they really don't look bad. They are off a '67 Camaro (Tommy's) that was wrecked and is in the shop for repairs. The wheels and the tires are ruined, but they make good shop rollers for "big brake" cars like mine.

I just heard today that my wheels are on the way back from Forgeline... :woot:

[LateNight72]

Is it just me, or does the color look even better, now? :unibrow:

[Steve1968LS2]

Is it just me, or does the color look even better, now? :unibrow:

It looks better now.

When they painted the front they had to match the rear so the pearl wasn't "flopped" the right way. In a way they had to paint it wrongish so it would match the rest.

Now they could spray it the right way and the pearl looks much better and really comes alive in the light.

<--- very happy

[awr68]

Looks great! Is that a c/f hood??

[GHOSTDANCER]

:thumbsup: Looks great

[68protouring454]

god your manhood must be sore!!, either that or your wife can't bend over, it looks great:_paranoid

[olds87]

god your manhood must be sore!!, either that or your wife can't bend over, it looks great:_paranoid

That just wrong.

Hay Steve, the color look different to me, but it still look great. :thumbsup:

[68protouring454]

hes the one who said his tires aroused him..

[jimhamptons]

Looks Great Steve!

[vinz68]

Looks great, glad to see it coming back together. deafinatly one the hottest 68'S out there!:beavis:

[Steve1968LS2]

hes the one who said his tires aroused him..

uh... ummm... let me go think up a pithy retort...

Looks great, glad to see it coming back together. deafinatly one the hottest 68'S out there!:beavis:

Didn't you hear? 68s are the NEW 69.. lol

Your's is looking pretty sick as well. Think of the nice ones on this site. Steevo's, Jakes, Yours, Mikes, etc.. soon we will dominate the 69s!

Looks great! Is that a c/f hood??

Nope, it didn't show by the time we painted. Now we would have to not only match the paint but we're limited if any body work is needed to make it fit perfect. The $$$ is instead being spent on Recaro seats. Want my place in line for the hood? I'm sure it would have been nice but with SEMA fast approaching time is of the essence.

[68protouring454]

great progress, i was trying to use some shop humor, no offense meant:unibrow:

[Steve1968LS2]

great progress, i was trying to use some shop humor, no offense meant:unibrow:

My wife laughed so it's ok ;)

Yea, seeing the car at this stage makes me very happy. The only complicated (somewhat) mechanical item is plumbing in the new Fuel Safe unit.

My wife has threatened my life if I sell the car at SEMA :_paranoid

[68protouring454]

My wife laughed so it's ok ;)

Yea, seeing the car at this stage makes me very happy. The only complicated (somewhat) mechanical item is plumbing in the new Fuel Safe unit.

My wife has threatened my life if I sell the car at SEMA :_paranoid
lol, i am sure she knows how you are with your car parts,lmao, goodluck keep us posted can't wait to see it

[vinz68]

What kind of gas cap is that?

[Payton King]

I would rather not talk about your woody, but if we must...

So tell me about your fuel cell. Do you have to run an external pump? Will you be able to connect it to your gas door or will you need to open the trunk to fill it? I guess you will need to pass the fuel lines through the trunk floor and also the vent tube? What about the gas smell in the trunk passing into the driver's compartment? Thinking about doing this at some point and I like you being the test pilot for this set-up.

I do know from personal expierence that you will get a gas smell that will permeate through braided line and at the fittings. I think XRP makes some fuel line that will not let the gas smell through, but it is a machine assembled and you have to give them the measurements to make it for you. I am sure that it is cheap.

I am looking forward to seeing you and your car at SEMA!

[68protouring454]

russell will permeate, xrp or aeroquip will not, i have experienced this some, and kenny davis use's aeroquip or xrp line all the time for full fuel lines on hot rods

[Steve1968LS2]

I would rather not talk about your woody, but if we must...

So tell me about your fuel cell. Do you have to run an external pump? Will you be able to connect it to your gas door or will you need to open the trunk to fill it? I guess you will need to pass the fuel lines through the trunk floor and also the vent tube? What about the gas smell in the trunk passing into the driver's compartment? Thinking about doing this at some point and I like you being the test pilot for this set-up.

I do know from personal expierence that you will get a gas smell that will permeate through braided line and at the fittings. I think XRP makes some fuel line that will not let the gas smell through, but it is a machine assembled and you have to give them the measurements to make it for you. I am sure that it is cheap.

I am looking forward to seeing you and your car at SEMA!

I odered my Sportsman take with an internal Bosch pump. I could hook to the external fill spot but I chose not to.

The fuel line, return line and vents will all pass through the trunk floor using XRP bulkhead fittings. The rest of the tank is sealed so no gas smell should waft forward. I have a bulkhead behind the seat area and I will add one to the package tray.

Regular XRP braided line didn't sweat gas and had no gas smell. I've heard that Russle line will. I've found the XRP fittings to be superior to all other fittings I have dealt with, then again they are the most expensive.

See ya in Vega$

What kind of gas cap is that?

There's not one on yet.. will be (was before) the "Larry" gas cap ( www.billetfiller.com )

[Diognes56]

Looks great :wow: :thumbsup: . Glad to see it coming back together :yes: .

David

[Payton King]

but I have the aeromotive fittings and they must use the russel hose, because I am getting a gas smell. I thought I need to put a charcoal canister on the vent line, but the lines themselves smell.

Now back to our regularly scheduled program...

You can if finally coming back together and the photos look great. 2 more questions and I promise to stop.

1. Why did your rims go back to Forgeline...did you move the fronts in another 1/2 inch?

2. When do you think it will be back on the road?

[Steve1968LS2]

1. Why did your rims go back to Forgeline...did you move the fronts in another 1/2 inch?

2. When do you think it will be back on the road?

Yea, I had the offset increased to 7-inches :)

I will have the car back by Oct 1st.. then it just needs the interior done which will be simple.

Then SEMA.. then the road.. lots of road ;)

[GvEman]

Awesome paint man! I would love to se it live at sema, but thats not a possibility=( At least i get to se some pics of it!

Keep it roling!

[vinz68]

Thanks for the link for the gas cap. You will be at pigeon fordge right.Looking forward to meeting you . And you'll get see my car in person. I'm gonna try to get to sema and check out Bad Penny. You car is killer:hail:

[Steve1968LS2]

Thanks for the link for the gas cap. You will be at pigeon fordge right.Looking forward to meeting you . And you'll get see my car in person. I'm gonna try to get to sema and check out Bad Penny. You car is killer:hail:

Your car is at SEMA.. you HAVE to go "experience the moment".. :)

68s will dominate SEMA this year.. no mercy! ;)

See ya at PF.

[Steve1968LS2]

Ok.. progress pics...

Today was "final buff" day.. the next step will be re-assembly and install of the new gas tank (and plumbing).. Two weeks till I have it back :woot:

Best Of Show Coachworks hard at work...
http://picsorban.com/upload/buff1.jpg

From the back:
http://picsorban.com/upload/buff2.jpg

[GHOSTDANCER]

She's a beaut :thumbsup:

[skatinjay27]

man steve you must be dancing around like a lil girl! and those are some pretty fancy roller lol look how those fenders eat those things up.

[Payton King]

2 weeks? Do you think it will be that long?

[Steve1968LS2]

2 weeks? Do you think it will be that long?

Well, I will be in Yellowstone, so it won't help to have it done sooner.

They have to drop in the tank, plumb it and wire it in. They also have to fix the rear wiring. Window trim back on, glass back in and adjusted, new back glass, install molding and weatherstriping, install grill, touch up under-coating.

Also, they need to install the new master and maybe the new brakes since I will be gone.

The little stuff really adds up.

[Payton King]

Yea the little stuff adds up. Especially if you are doing it solo and need to chase parts.

Tell Yogi I said "Hi'" Oh yea that is Jellystone Park.

[Steve1968LS2]

More assembly done now.

Put the new wheels on.. the R888s at 1/2 inch wider than the RA1s and this causes them to pinch in. I don't like the look so I will switch one size down. I will only loose 1/2 inch of width so no biggie.

http://picsorban.com/upload/buff3.jpg

[mazspeed]

Looks bitchen

[dave96dcm]

http://picsorban.com/upload/buff1.jpg


What's the story with the AMX?
Your car is sweet.

[Steve1968LS2]

The AMX has been there two years.. the only car there longer than my car. lol

The owner took it for a while for interior and sorta keeps changing his mind on stuff. It's very nice and is more towards the stock side with some mods.

Oh, see that rear glass louver? He wanted one, Nobody made one, so he had that hand crafted from Metal. Cost him $3000 as I recall :wow:

[dave96dcm]

Lol I think that my dad has a few sets of those louvers kicking around.

[Payton King]

Are you speaking of the fronts being pinched in...

Going with a 265?

[rsk68]

anyone have of phone number for Best Of Show Coachworks?

[rwhite692]

According to their website

www.bestofshowcoachworks (http://www.bestofshowcoachworks)

760-480-0227

[Speedster]

What's the story with the AMX?
Your car is sweet.

Steve -

I like the pic with your special passenger safety net...lol.

Car looks great as expected.

[rsk68]

rwhite692,

thanks for the link and number.

[Mean 69]

Not the "only" one, my 70 still has you beat! It's okay though, I'd rather see them working hard on yours to get ready for the show, mine still has a long way to go. It's got color though, I haven't even seen it in person with the new coat of paint on it, nor have I seen yours after the re-shoot. My good buddy there says that both look amazing, I can't wait to see them. Maybe even this weekend. Life has a way of getting a bit busy sometimes!!!

So, are you more excited to see it almost finished now, or the first time around?

M

[vinz68]

Your car is so killer, I might go to SEMA just to see it in person...Everytime I see it I like it more and more.:thumbsup: :thumbsup:

[Gordz32]

Mark, I finished polishing and reassembling ur car today. She's looking sweet! I'll put the hood back on in the morning and its done. :thumbsup: Penny is looking sweeter than ever.

[Steve1968LS2]

this is where I spent my "settlement" money from State Farm.

http://picsorban.com/upload/recaro.jpg

best seats out there and I've ran them in this fabric on my last two cars, might as well continue the tradition.

[Steve1968LS2]

Oh, Car is almost done and should be at the upholstery shop in a week or so.

The tire issue was fixed by Toyo. I thought I was going to have to go down to a 255/35 but I guess they have some 265/35s ready to release here in the US and had a pair brought in ahead of time just for my car. Thanks Toyo!

Just finishing up all the little details and such. Total bill for the repairs is well over $34,000... not counting my settlement. ouch!

I'm decorating the interior of the car in rabbits feet and four-leaf clovers.. lol

[awr68]

The car is going to be better than ever...for the second time. But the best part is that you didn't get hurt and were able to keep a positive attitude threw the whole thing...my hats off to you my friend!! :hail: :thumbsup:

[race-rodz]

I'm decorating the interior of the car in rabbits feet and four-leaf clovers.. lol


so the next stop is west coast customs.... i saw the show a couple times.... thats right up their alley:rofl:

[Steve1968LS2]

Close.. oh so close..

Just need to plumb inside the trunk (hardlines), clean up the wiring, install the seats and then do a ton of detail work. The new coated exhaust system is on, the new Wilwood brakes are on (new way they etch the calipers, less obtrusive). The new 7/8-inch master cylinder is on and the new tires are all mounted up.

I also installed the new Momo shift knob and wheel. The Recaros will go in tomorrow (at least the drivers seat). Seems Recaro sent me three left sliders and one right one. Doh!

I also moved from 650 front springs to 450-lb. Lets see... She's looking good, won't be the most "technically perfect" car at SEMA but should look pretty under the lights. and she's a driver.

http://picsorban.com/upload/buff5.jpg

The trunk, still need to do the wiring.
http://picsorban.com/upload/buff6.jpg

[ZZ3ElCamino]

Steve, do you happen to have a close up pic of the calipers? I am curious to see how they etched their name into it, rather than milling it in. Thanks

Jason

[awr68]

Do you have all the parts to hook up a filler tube to the Larry cap? Car looks great Steve, can't wait to see it!! :hail:

[Steve1968LS2]

Steve, do you happen to have a close up pic of the calipers? I am curious to see how they etched their name into it, rather than milling it in. Thanks

Jason

Ask and you shall recieve. It's less "in your face" compared to the old way. It's also how they etch all their billet master cylinders now.

http://picsorban.com/upload/buff7.jpg

[Steve1968LS2]

Do you have all the parts to hook up a filler tube to the Larry cap? Car looks great Steve, can't wait to see it!! :hail:

No, my cap is strictly for looks. Fill in the trunk. Ultimately it's safer that way.

[customcam]

An awsome car Steve :hail:
Steve can u show us how the calipers look inside the wheel?

[GEORGE SANCHEZ]

STEVE so do you have a spare set that you want to get rid of i am in the market for some brakes
thanks
JUSTACOUPE

[Roger Poirier]

I'm looking forward to seeing the interior completed....

Remember you built it as a track car, not a show car. please don't worry about comparing it to other cars a SEMA. Each build you put together is unique in its own way. You help educate others and bring a real sense of a build project that others can follow. :thumbsup:

As always you are on top of your game! :yes:

R.P.

[Steve1968LS2]

Car fired up today.. :woot:

We temporarily plumbed the fuel cell. After SEMA it will all be done in hardline, for now we did braided.

And if anyone is curious.. here's the bottom side.. not flashy but very functional.

http://picsorban.com/upload/buff8.jpg

[TravisB]

looks nice what is the black? looks textured? Bedliner?

[Steve1968LS2]

looks nice what is the black? looks textured? Bedliner?

It's by FUSOR. It's a rubbery undercoat (can be painted). The nice part is that it's very lightweight. I bet it didn't add more than 3-4 pounds to the car. Sprays out of a special gun.

[Gordz32]

The Black is Lord Fusor black undercoat. Sprays threw a special gun and comes in a tube like caulk. Its nice stuff, and it stays somewhat soft.

[Gordz32]

beat me too it steve! haha

[Steve1968LS2]

beat me too it steve! haha

You've got to be quick around here :lol:

Have fun playing with wiring tomorrow... ;)

[Bandit Ls-1]

looks great man i really like the non flashy look underneath. where did u get that undercoat stuff? im looking for something light weight, durable and rust resistant, thanks.

[Gordz32]

Any quality autobody supply should carry it. But you need a special gun to shoot it, not sure how much it is but I would say $75-150 for the gun.

[Sales@Dutchboys]

WOW! Looks great!:thumbsup:

You have got to be getting excited.


Paul

[MarkM66]

What coating do you have on the exhaust?

[Steve1968LS2]

What coating do you have on the exhaust?

Same as on the headers. It's called "titanium" thermal coat by my powder guy.

[sledge33]

Steve after looking at the bottom of your car,i am assuming that is your fuel pump along the pass side rocker ?I have had a terrible time trying to find a place to mount mine below the tank.Any problems with it there?Can you see it hanging down?

[68protouring454]

Steve after looking at the bottom of your car,i am assuming that is your fuel pump along the pass side rocker ?I have had a terrible time trying to find a place to mount mine below the tank.Any problems with it there?Can you see it hanging down?
thats a fuel filter.

[Steve1968LS2]

Steve after looking at the bottom of your car,i am assuming that is your fuel pump along the pass side rocker ?I have had a terrible time trying to find a place to mount mine below the tank.Any problems with it there?Can you see it hanging down?


thats a fuel filter.


Actually that's a BG fuel cooler. I barely hangs down past the pinch rail and it helps support the fuel line.

My fuel pump is in the tank. It exits to a 10 micron Aeromotive filter and then an aeromotive regulator.

[Payton King]

Did you make a decision?

Looks real nice underneath. I did not know that you had changed out the exhaust system.

Driven it yet...again?

[Steve1968LS2]

Did you make a decision?

Looks real nice underneath. I did not know that you had changed out the exhaust system.

Driven it yet...again?

It's the same exhaust that was on it before the accident. I just took it off and had it coated.

Not sure.. I was going to drive it rather than open trailer it, but the shop offered to take it in an enclosed trailer. The only concern I have is something happening to it on the way (thus screwing Wilwood) so I will most likely take them up on it and drive the car home. The plan would be to take it early Sunday to ATS. detail the car, drink a beer with Tyler then drive it over to the SEMA staging area.

Not driven yet (need to bleed the brake system) but it fired right up. Didn't even have to push the throttle.

[Steve1968LS2]

The repairs to Penny are done! :woot:

After 5 months and $35,000 the Camaro is officially out of paint jail. The crew at BOS did an amazing job on her and she's better than before the accident. Since she's SEMA bound they spent over 60 hrs color sanding and buffing the paint and trust me that the pics don't do the color or the finish justice.

I really want to thank Best Of Show for fixing my car so well and for dealing with the insurance company to make sure it got fixed right.

All I need to do is finish the interior, get an alignment and add on the ATS carbon fiber spoiler.

Here she is.. Bad Penney Version 1.2

http://picsorban.com/upload/donepenny2.jpg

http://picsorban.com/upload/donepenny.jpg

[Jr]

Looks great! :thumbsup:

Where did you get the 2 black mesh screens?

[Steve1968LS2]

Looks great! :thumbsup:

Where did you get the 2 black mesh screens?

Cleaned up the ones that were on the car and figured out a better way to mount them.

[TonyL]

Looks beautiful man. Hope you get to actually enjoy it this time!

[70TWO NOVA]

Hey Steve, Wanna Race now?
http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd45/70twoo/ddfd.jpg

[slck6t9]

Steve car looks GREAT!!! Now who is the guy with the big smile lurking through the window. How funny..:rofl:

[Steve1968LS2]

Steve car looks GREAT!!! Now who is the guy with the big smile lurking through the window. How funny..:rofl:

That's Chris.. he works that the shop. I locked him outside to take the shot. He's sort of a "big deal" around here.

Bring out a camera and everyone tries to get in the shot... It's like a "where's Waldo" picture.. :lol:

[Steve1968LS2]

Hey Steve, Wanna Race now?


Bring it!

;)

[TonyL]

I'd wondered about him
http://img408.imageshack.us/img408/7765/iminursb0.jpg

[Rybar]

Steve that rear end shot look SIIIIICCKK!! :thumbsup: Great job man, now go drive the damn thing. :cheers: At least you can with your cali weather :lol:

[skatinjay27]

steve can you please email me the highest quality pic of the first one. cause i got to blow that up for my garage!!!!!
thos new tires look so bad ass!!!! are they avalible yet? you better keep it locked up till sema, gotta keep it safe lol
[email protected]

[coolwelder62]

As Gov. Arnold would say The things TOTALLY FON - Tanstic Steve.

[Rebird]

Wow, absolutely beautiful!!!! Great job! tracy

[Gordz32]

Gotta love my peeka boo action. I got locked out and I decided I would get in on the action. The car came out out great and I can personally tell u that theres lots of hours in it! It was a pleasure to work on a car of this caliber. Steve forgot to mention the Ginenormo burnout he did as he left in the fairlane today!

[class67]

This thread has been going on for months and I just now took the time the read through it. I've gotta say that car is the BADDEST!

[FETorino]

I noticed the rear view mirrow attached to your roll bar. Where did you get it?

[Steve1968LS2]

I noticed the rear view mirrow attached to your roll bar. Where did you get it?

That came with the car, it's a circle-track style mirror. It's convexed and you can see a huge area in it. In fact it almost negates the need for a passengers side mirror.

I'm sure it can be bought at most racecar supply shops.

[skatinjay27]

high res?
[email protected]

[Steve1968LS2]

high res?
[email protected]

I will get it for you tomorrow.. which shot?

=============================================

We fixed the gas tank today.. no help from Fuel Safe who charged me $58 to overnight insuficiant parts to make the repair.

Still have an elec gremlin in the brake lights, but the car runs great. Tomorrow she heads to the interior shop. By the way, this is the how the car sits (ride heigth).

The BOS crew got her all loaded on the trailer tonight. :woot:

http://picsorban.com/upload/move1.jpg

[Sales@Dutchboys]

She sits SO GOOD!

I would be jumping up and down! lol

Congrats :thumbsup:

[skatinjay27]

the front shot.
is it lower than it was in the mag?
it looks amazing!!!!!!!!!!!

[bigtyme1]

The Best looking shot is the one with water in the post, ( Cars going to SEMA). Would I be asking a Dumb question if I asked what you do for a living. Your pictures turn out perfect every time.

[camcojb]

The Best looking shot is the one with water in the post, ( Cars going to SEMA). Would I be asking a Dumb question if I asked what you do for a living. Your pictures turn out perfect every time.


It's what he does for a living................. :D He works for Popular Hot Rodding! :thumbsup:

Jody

[Vegas69]

Best photo yet.

[comp-spec]

Steve car looks great, are you sure that not a show car... LOL

[olds87]

That is a sick car. :thumbsup:

What is the ride hight?

[Steve1968LS2]

That is a sick car. :thumbsup:

What is the ride hight?

Low.. lol

Do you mean how much clearance do I have? I have quite a bit.

Steve car looks great, are you sure that not a show car... LOL

This car is actually too good for me.. lol..

Show cars just sit around.. this one will gather no moss ;)

[ironworks]

Is the stance in the picture ride height?

[Steve1968LS2]

Is the stance in the picture ride height?


Yep.. Unless I have issues, but the first drive was good and the suspension is faily stiff. Plus my exhaust is tucked up nice and tight.

I have a great turning radius.. I was acutally amazed.

[awr68]

I need to kow what you think of the new front spring rate as I need to order new springs for mine. BTW, it looks killer, low like mine...but not too low!! :thumbsup:

[Steve1968LS2]

I need to kow what you think of the new front spring rate as I need to order new springs for mine. BTW, it looks killer, low like mine...but not too low!! :thumbsup:

Will let you know. I worked with Chris Alston to take a bunch of measurments and we came up with these springs.

[Steve1968LS2]

In other news I guess I'm commited to having my car in Wilwood's booth!

http://picsorban.com/upload/elec2.jpg

I didn't know they were doing this until this flyer show up at work. The pressure!!! :willy:

Eric Thornson (does all the interiors for Steve Strope) has been busy on my interior. I wanted something that looked simple and OEM.

He is doing the carpet in a "small loop" that just a tighter version of the factory carpet and the door panels are in a black leather that has a grain pattern to match the dash pad. The main reason was to delete the arm rest areas since my door bars are my arm rests. He is also covering some of the cage bars in the same leather.

Here's the door panel he fabbed out of aluminum. He likes it better than cardboad since it keeps his shape and wont tear if removed. He should be done by this Saturday.

http://picsorban.com/upload/elec3.jpg

[Steve1968LS2]

The interior is almost done.. Eric Thornson did the carpet, the back seat blockoff and he covered many of the cage bars in leather.

I also installed the G2X Rackpak GPS track computer. It's coming along nicely. All he has to do now if finish the door panels. They will have an OEM retro look. He does very good work, in fact the other car he's working on for SEMA is Steve Strope's Torino.

http://picsorban.com/upload/interior2.jpg

Here are the panels. They will incorporate the factory CAMARO emblem and won't have arm rests due to my door bar. There will be a pull tap to close the door (you can see it in the first picture).

http://picsorban.com/upload/interior3.jpg

[BC69]

Thanks for the update! So Close!!

DUMB ? Alert:

How are you opening the doors from the inside? Still installing a handle inside?