SPR
02-21-2009, 04:10 PM
This is going to be the LONGEST post in SLi History.
And this project has been going on for a while, so some of the catch up progress might not make perfect sense, since ill be copying it off another forum. So please bare with me.
First off Because its not a SS or Z28 or anything fancy, This camaro restored to orignal is worth jack shit. So im going for what is known as a Pro Touring style. Old school muscle with new age modifications. Because the resale value is by far higher. Ive owned this car for 18 years... And theres a really long sob story behind this car that has led it to sadly sit most of its life rusting away... But i wont bore you with that unless you ask. But its finally getting a turn for the better. So no more BS, Heres the build.
Started day one (this was sometime in august 08) by buying a new battery, a gallon of gas, and a can of starting fluid (which i didnt even have to use) and fired her up. started quit easy actually and ran like a champ after it burned off all the cob webs and crap. topped up the oil, trans fluid, coolant, brake fluid, aired up the tires (surprised the held air), and drove it to the front of the house. and heres how it sat waiting to go to my shop. (this is all after sitting for atleast 15 years.)
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_31c40d2cab3386532c8798e96a91be48-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_c8c4233b95c01cd7cfcc6fbf87488976-1.jpg
Looks in good shape huh? to bad you cant see all the fuck ups in the pictures that the crappy paint hides.
like this after i broke away all the bondo, where it has rusted clear threw the fender to day light.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_e187056f496e40ceb01d30ede4c982e8-1.jpg
or this (going to be a lot worse when all the bondo and chicken wire is gone)
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_789fa5cf74f74fa0baebdea21cefa26a-1.jpg
the entire way around the back window is rusted out, im suprised the window is still holding in there.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_42f63da60404428893ff7ea2c8715481-1.jpg
this is how the other side looked before i broke all the bondo off. im sure this one has rusted clear threw too.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_7403c2c4d7964396acf0700fbc3b2e3e-1.jpg
All this gets replaced with new metal.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_80d1bed995a04527a7632dc21c3080c6-1.jpg
Roof should be salvagable. its not rusted that bad yet.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_7635651f56314af8b6f5a2da8efb7539-1.jpg
nice big scratch/dent
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_445647f4622f4737b148243ee59f2015-1.jpg
anyways, first thing was to fix the transmission leak. so took it to my old shop and put it on the lift.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_30d7a9e9050cc79ea86c0319eced0236-1.jpg
pulled the nasty ol trans out.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_fc4d6def3ebd488bb3c0fb7d1af7eaa1-1.jpg
took this oportunity to do some prettying up :)
greasy crossmember..
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_9de877ae14d84ea180302a33ad2bce4f-1.jpg
clean crossmember.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_e322145ba28e48b4bfc2f3c35b40cf79-1.jpg
painted/rust protected :)
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_37a1540c49db42d58635c926cfa5f5f2-1.jpg
Went threw the entire chassis/drive train. new bushings, greasy, alignment, fixed the brakes, got everything mechanically sound.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_1858c281d30656fe502239b501942668-1.jpg
Then put new seals in the transmission threw out, and put it back in the car :)
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_34a07bdb047a754def6d852e8cb5d4e4-1.jpg
this crappy camera phone pic makes this look much worse than it is. but either way its nothing pretty.
Motor is a 327 port/polish and bored out to a 350, modest internal upgrades. packs about 350 hp and runs about 8 mpg lmao. That will change when i have 5 grand to invest into the motor i want. ive got a bunch of engine dress up in storage too for when the car is finished so the motor wont look so crappy.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_53909e63500a4dca8ce2096b7cbdd47a-1.jpg
Ordered a set of LED tail lights. so i started on them next. had to remove the rear bumper from the car, then remove the tail lights.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_00ef8fdf38e7479aa1ded40e63c36225-1.jpg
Removed the bezels from around the tail lights (they just got cleaned, after they dry i will hit them with the power ball and buff em up so they look new again)
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_7d022e78891a4edda7076d55a695dda4-1.jpg
broken lenses, dryed out seals, not a good thing. So they all went in the trash. Ill order new ones soon. just gotta wait to see how much else im gonna order at the same time.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_c348764575e14557a240ed5ff54f29dc-1.jpg
Cleaned the housings, primed them, and then sprayed them with a white rust protectant.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_38effdb9612c4ace9f805092707eddc3-1.jpg
and when i get the new lenses and gaskets, all of this will be installed into the housings :)
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_3ac0ab099b504f22be7655ab9a82749d-1.jpg
But i played christmas today and dug out all the parts i could find from storage. So heres a few pics :)
New interior panels
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_d3e0e3fc203d453e927c4beae2508f04-1.jpg
Fresh chrome. Head light surrounds, grill surround. and my broken grill.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_82193309e0844235b57fba0588ab0360-1.jpg
brand new Genuine GM door handles, window handles, sun visor mounts and dome light. along with new chrome and gold door arm rest, new seat side covers, and 18K Gold valve stem caps haha.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_966edc548ddb492d96511510af758b58-1.jpg
Fresh chromed grill lights, with brand new lenses and gaskets. new sun visors, new chrome hood latch kit, water neck, and brace bars. braided hose kit for some engine dress up :) and a huge gold Moroso Air filter
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_927357160cdb4ffdaeb30bff1a55cf6a-1.jpg
now i have another box of more new parts somewhere. i just cant find them because i know im missing my gold moroso valve covers, and some other interior parts. so i got another box to find. but theres some of the stuff.
got the transmission finished and installed so i brought it back home. and took it out by the lake for a test drive and to take the official "Before" Pictures.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_8a5abcf920154ba88223ea86aa6a3e55-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_b7f0f4b1ed1f46fb9c4e56911eca6258-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_14ad472ccc604d82a236866c1b2fef21-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_674510145f414b52867c10ca6d9e2466-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_7213132ad8bb4864bed1df84834d0c6d-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_2aa21f71b7704d72b20ef6953d93b637-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_a0daff526e6e430a9b323c8fed128b58-1.jpg
So All of that above happened In august and september. Then there was a long break in this period due to some life issues.
So this next part of the post all happenes from january 12th - To Present.
-January 12th 2009,
today i did a little work before i took it out to the shop to go under the knife. insured it for 30 days and got a trip permit so i can drive it to my new shop, because its about 15 miles out of town, and this car needs a good driving, plus its a pain in the ass to tow a trailer up that loong step ass hill with out borrowing my buddys diesel.
Wired in the LED tail lights, and fixed the wiring issues with the head lights, and bolted down the front seat. so it was atleast Semi legal to drive. Couple vids...
My Flasher is out and i didnt realise untill after this video. So the turn signals are all messed up right now. (plus the tail lights are on teh wrong side of the car) So ignore the turn signals right now lol. But i got a new flasher, just havnt installed it yet.
And i havnt ordered my new lenses yet either. So yes they will have tail light lenses when they are finished. i just needed them to drive 15 miles in the dark...
YouTube - DSCF0339 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cvDkyO96C-M)
Carb was being a pos from sitting all winter and getting gunked up. Not sure why... ran fine before. So started it up and played with it some. Running pretty good now.
YouTube - DSCF0340 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gPGYC9HSc1A)
So i drove it out to the shop tonight. Had a buddy following me in his 13.7 second 1/4 mile car... Turning onto highway 197 gunned it and opend her up from about a 15 mph roll....tires busted loose for a bit, and his ass Still could NOT keep up what so ever hahaha. Freaking looove this motor. Im banking its a 12.8 second car as it sits right now. (with better rubber of course)
So the sanding will start tomorrow. After that comes cutting the panels away, and making new ones! from scratch...
and tons more.. This will be finished Before spring hopefully. Summer for sure. So expect updates rather quickly over the winter :)
January 24th,
10 Days into the project.
Well took my mom and step dad out to the shop today to see the car. So i knew it would be a good day to bring the camera and snap some pictures since i wouldnt be doing any real work.
(i only have a $900 dollar camera, and i dont like to bring it to the shop where its going to get damaged, or sanding particles in it)
And just to make you appreciate the work thats been put into this a little more.
EVERYTHING you see thats in primer grey started out as a flat piece of metal. every single bend and shape and mold has been put in there by me, 100% hand made. Havnt bought a single patch panel. Which has saved thousands of dollars.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_fb49ced64e3b4829bcb32859202e8b71-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_9a8cd19ed7154d6a94721646d4c09398-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_e9c3599a8eb74295826a2b8c2a8500e2-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_a17cdb3f1b5a4b168531a883c175a16c-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_04bbb0b33eaf4d8a9dd55540eb3045ea-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_2f5caaff88b34319818099953003cc9a-1.jpg
So first part to really fix was the hood. For some reason this corner rusted pretty bad. So after some new metal later..
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_53814b05e67e4b22923b7df3ddcbcba3-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_d4e94b3277ed4f1a880d6f382c6f16dd-1.jpg
This is about the only perfect part on the car haha.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_fa41acfddc2640d6a2c24dc8b324b554-1.jpg
Next was to attack all the rear panels.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_2558c7cb06214980b9e6c0f08ad822ba-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_1facca2a9cb0491c8d0c251a3ec3b3ad-1.jpg
Keep in mind. all this primer grey was hand made!!
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_7d627e11215a4b9bbdea54f63a861225-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_fe46919136f24d0084ed6c24707108f4-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_c0e9aaaa700240a1918c9aca0994c2ba-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_c5b5ab2974164c70ad2d27f039a51c8e-1.jpg
New rain gaurds, and corners of the roof have all been completely remade from scratch! Before the original gutters were held on by caulking from teh dip shit who "restored" this car the first time. It rusted so bad. the roof was pretty much only being held on by the culking. another 2 years of sitting and the roof could have collapsed in probably.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_02543fd358a3425ab4f7162fd8ef1d3a-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_7309d7519ff04642aff5ca484c680173-1.jpg
hasnt been sanded and primered yet. But glazed and ready :)
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_90b0f997417648e8b45b8171b0b0321c-1.jpg
The spoiler made the lip of the trunk rust clear threw. So the last 3" of trunk again, made from scratch!
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_4f73c7a185be43349fbda51773ce98fa-1.jpg
No more big scratch/dent!! flawless once again! (that mark is where the body line got sanded to bare metal, its not a scratch)
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_e2885ffb351d4fcaad110c3eeef80728-1.jpg
Today we did a little sanding on the cowl. and that was it.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_a2e352447d5345aa83b2dc81088c55a1-1.jpg
the exterior rust is 90% fixed. Still have to remake half the edges around the windows. Fix a little more in the center of the hood. and that should be it. Then we are going to start on the interior/floor and the roof. I think tomorrow were going to pressure wash everything and burn all that paint off. Nothing like extremely hot water (that actually burnt threw my work boot one time and scortched my foot) to really clean a old rust bucket up!
January 27th 2009 (my 21st birthday! haha)
All the window trims have been remade and are rust free now, and have been coated with rust protectant.
Rust has been taken care of in the floor, and rust coated. Dynamat is coming next.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_c05591732cfa4ac7b1a1c5fdeb19121e-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_cd63458c51454368afa7967e1f06a5d4-1.jpg
Originally the dash got painted Gloss white. In the sun this put such a glare on the windshield you could not see a DAMN thing. it was horrible. So this is the primer/rust coat. It will be flat black soon. Sorry for the blurry picture.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_b17da3b9372e4ceda8a85cebcb94bde0-1.jpg
Roof taken care of. (por15) Dynamat coming in next, and head liner going in right after!
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_e21387a0f3824904ae51f4978596def8-1.jpg
i spent about 4 HOURS sanding in the engine bay today. But its ready to get painted now!
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_1f9536fb4efe4f6ebba10344de2a20ae-1.jpg
New headliner getting ready to go in. Probably tomorrow.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_4b026d51c6524064a5e7713812f13035-1.jpg
Trunk had a tiny bit of rust, put in a new plate. Hit it with the rust protectant, and then nailed it with this grey speckly trunk coating.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_82a84cee937744118edf76e0ca264e16-1.jpg
general shots.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_3368a005e3884307a89665e0bc625207-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_3db3b921456343c091ba0f66708bf937-1.jpg
Painted the underside of the hood. Almost looks brand new!
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_116652de33ff433d9d2494fab16f534c-1.jpg
Been busting ass and really hammering this car out. Hoping to have it in the paint booth in the next WEEK!
Lots more coming very soon :)
Febuary 1st.
Heres some updates.
Engine bay before...
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_47122d00abf74f16ba79da6cf2eda4f9-1.jpg
After a nice pressure wash, new paint job, and some detailing, its all shinney again! (and its still not finished! theres only more going on to make it shine more!)
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_095d374c6617463faa2014fe87262597-1.jpg
Cleaned up the nice old mickey thompsons, and had my sister do her fancy pin striping work on them. Not getting rid of these cherrys!
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_39c663a85cb548efab683484c5bbb9df-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_922abb7e006b4420b06fcdc2e31adf96-1.jpg
Febuary 5th,
parts came in!!
It was like Christmas in febuary today!! with a box that was as tall as ME!!!
The shipping company made it feel like christmas a little bit more with there ultra high tech fancy packing paper!
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_c50ad3090982499a8e468d4f3e3740ab-1.jpg
$800 bucks doesnt buy you very much!
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_07d3b36b4d0c4e0b9e2ead9fe679cdd4-1.jpg
not much at all...
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_22b539c7ff664cadadb139a0750ba376-1.jpg
30 freaking POUNDS of dynamat!
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_69dd4a555c6f445f959f1804518db26f-1.jpg
New grill, new rear deck with speaker cut outs! hooray! lol
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_cb9dca6a254a454184bf715685e5726a-1.jpg
New gaskets, seals, weather stripping, side mirrors, Tail light lenses. (forgot to freaking order my reverse light lenses damn it!!
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_74fb6a81e66647269e8701df39c6358e-1.jpg
New glove box, and every single interior screw, clip, bracket, and mount there is all in brand new stainless steel :D
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_1b7d81f1cdda4886a23398268863d486-1.jpg
I was going to paint it tomorrow morning, but i think im going to hold off till after the weekend. Going on a weekend long trip with the quads and some buddys, so i dont think i have time tomorrow to throw out some paint before i have to take off.
But you should have a good update monday with a fully painted car!
Febuary 8th,
Fresh Paint as of tonight =]
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_89f866cba5d049d6ab800f08ed46fefd-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_1f292f7066e742db8f2181eeda1adbb7-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_ea7616fcb04847fe9952dd2fe22c1298-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_f057cf48d4ad43ca8381a2c04c314ec1-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_d4379441ddc141af90a835a890aabe59-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_0ac418468745441f80652ec114e939eb-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_a094694447074e2a997042c66aa7ca0c-1.jpg
Febuary 10th,
small update. I tried taking better pictures of the paint, but i just cant in the crappy shop light.
anyways i got one more run i just found on the fender to fix, and then ill go crazy on wet sanding, then it will get its top coat, and then of course buff it and all that good stuff!
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_17b4ad5bf6a54db3afa2549bb333737a-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_9b5d22d934dd4c8cbe6236fa1af17b14-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_0be167914d8c420b92c102538e98188d-1.jpg
Got the floor covered in dynamat
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_e2323b96ab5842b09d3a34b34699024c-1.jpg
New head liner is in and most the wrinkles finally pulled out. There is dynamat in the roof of the car as well.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_0732ce1f6e334878a6be7aac00c08c11-1.jpg
This summer when it heats up and stretches ill be able to work that wrinkle out and get it tight. but untill then... it has to stay... :(
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_c726feb5d6ac4230ae6b6ddaeba9e654-1.jpg
dash all painted. yes its the same color as the outside of the car.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_bd7ea3e8a2574cdb9c7717ccb838054f-1.jpg
anyways more soon.
Febuary 13th,
another $300 bucks in parts showed up today....
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_d7bde3eff414451e83e0eadfab2e3cba-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_2da1f2f87c7e48c3866e9c9c95167792-1.jpg
more coming soon!
Febuary 19th,
ive got the entire car wet sanded, cut and buffed now. And been working on putting it back together, its nearing completion! Im busting my ass to get it finished by march 14th! I really wanna bring it to the PRE dyno day.
But i havnt been bringing my camera to the shop sorry. so i dont have any pictures of that. ill take some soon!
But my LED's came in today. so here was the next project.
started out with some cardboard, punched some holes, stuffed in some LED's and glued them down.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_aedf6b9ab3024500abaabd3d0f2e4ed2-1.jpg
Did some wire running and soldering on the back side..
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_d75bc0a5b881467d929777f25a1d8ad6-1.jpg
Taped it up and got it ready to install.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_8d9dbeffe0b54bbcbd2e2a9dc07d3e3f-1.jpg
Glued it down.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_a6d4614653f5430cadf4eda2b1849124-1.jpg
Tested it.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_085c8000fd3c450c823e6c37deec14d9-1.jpg
New Reverse light lenses came in finally. (Light off)
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_60ee07e716a24cff8ffb0ab6a28ce747-1.jpg
Back up lights on, ;)
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_787d83e9e7e2448e9afa37a607ba79a4-1.jpg
They are very bright actually, but my camera took a dark picture with the very white lights on... so they are not near as dim as the picture seems.
Also i know, not quite as fancy as the nice digitail boards i put in for the brake/tail lights.. but hey. your talking about 200 bucks, vs 8 bucks!
So that catches you up to current. Today is the 21st of course. Ill be heading out to the shop later to take a few pictures and work some more on putting it back together. So expect anotehr update tonight/tomorrow!!
Thanks for looking! Comments welcome.
And this project has been going on for a while, so some of the catch up progress might not make perfect sense, since ill be copying it off another forum. So please bare with me.
First off Because its not a SS or Z28 or anything fancy, This camaro restored to orignal is worth jack shit. So im going for what is known as a Pro Touring style. Old school muscle with new age modifications. Because the resale value is by far higher. Ive owned this car for 18 years... And theres a really long sob story behind this car that has led it to sadly sit most of its life rusting away... But i wont bore you with that unless you ask. But its finally getting a turn for the better. So no more BS, Heres the build.
Started day one (this was sometime in august 08) by buying a new battery, a gallon of gas, and a can of starting fluid (which i didnt even have to use) and fired her up. started quit easy actually and ran like a champ after it burned off all the cob webs and crap. topped up the oil, trans fluid, coolant, brake fluid, aired up the tires (surprised the held air), and drove it to the front of the house. and heres how it sat waiting to go to my shop. (this is all after sitting for atleast 15 years.)
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_31c40d2cab3386532c8798e96a91be48-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_c8c4233b95c01cd7cfcc6fbf87488976-1.jpg
Looks in good shape huh? to bad you cant see all the fuck ups in the pictures that the crappy paint hides.
like this after i broke away all the bondo, where it has rusted clear threw the fender to day light.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_e187056f496e40ceb01d30ede4c982e8-1.jpg
or this (going to be a lot worse when all the bondo and chicken wire is gone)
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_789fa5cf74f74fa0baebdea21cefa26a-1.jpg
the entire way around the back window is rusted out, im suprised the window is still holding in there.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_42f63da60404428893ff7ea2c8715481-1.jpg
this is how the other side looked before i broke all the bondo off. im sure this one has rusted clear threw too.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_7403c2c4d7964396acf0700fbc3b2e3e-1.jpg
All this gets replaced with new metal.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_80d1bed995a04527a7632dc21c3080c6-1.jpg
Roof should be salvagable. its not rusted that bad yet.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_7635651f56314af8b6f5a2da8efb7539-1.jpg
nice big scratch/dent
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_445647f4622f4737b148243ee59f2015-1.jpg
anyways, first thing was to fix the transmission leak. so took it to my old shop and put it on the lift.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_30d7a9e9050cc79ea86c0319eced0236-1.jpg
pulled the nasty ol trans out.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_fc4d6def3ebd488bb3c0fb7d1af7eaa1-1.jpg
took this oportunity to do some prettying up :)
greasy crossmember..
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_9de877ae14d84ea180302a33ad2bce4f-1.jpg
clean crossmember.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_e322145ba28e48b4bfc2f3c35b40cf79-1.jpg
painted/rust protected :)
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_37a1540c49db42d58635c926cfa5f5f2-1.jpg
Went threw the entire chassis/drive train. new bushings, greasy, alignment, fixed the brakes, got everything mechanically sound.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_1858c281d30656fe502239b501942668-1.jpg
Then put new seals in the transmission threw out, and put it back in the car :)
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_34a07bdb047a754def6d852e8cb5d4e4-1.jpg
this crappy camera phone pic makes this look much worse than it is. but either way its nothing pretty.
Motor is a 327 port/polish and bored out to a 350, modest internal upgrades. packs about 350 hp and runs about 8 mpg lmao. That will change when i have 5 grand to invest into the motor i want. ive got a bunch of engine dress up in storage too for when the car is finished so the motor wont look so crappy.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_53909e63500a4dca8ce2096b7cbdd47a-1.jpg
Ordered a set of LED tail lights. so i started on them next. had to remove the rear bumper from the car, then remove the tail lights.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_00ef8fdf38e7479aa1ded40e63c36225-1.jpg
Removed the bezels from around the tail lights (they just got cleaned, after they dry i will hit them with the power ball and buff em up so they look new again)
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_7d022e78891a4edda7076d55a695dda4-1.jpg
broken lenses, dryed out seals, not a good thing. So they all went in the trash. Ill order new ones soon. just gotta wait to see how much else im gonna order at the same time.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_c348764575e14557a240ed5ff54f29dc-1.jpg
Cleaned the housings, primed them, and then sprayed them with a white rust protectant.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_38effdb9612c4ace9f805092707eddc3-1.jpg
and when i get the new lenses and gaskets, all of this will be installed into the housings :)
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_3ac0ab099b504f22be7655ab9a82749d-1.jpg
But i played christmas today and dug out all the parts i could find from storage. So heres a few pics :)
New interior panels
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_d3e0e3fc203d453e927c4beae2508f04-1.jpg
Fresh chrome. Head light surrounds, grill surround. and my broken grill.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_82193309e0844235b57fba0588ab0360-1.jpg
brand new Genuine GM door handles, window handles, sun visor mounts and dome light. along with new chrome and gold door arm rest, new seat side covers, and 18K Gold valve stem caps haha.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_966edc548ddb492d96511510af758b58-1.jpg
Fresh chromed grill lights, with brand new lenses and gaskets. new sun visors, new chrome hood latch kit, water neck, and brace bars. braided hose kit for some engine dress up :) and a huge gold Moroso Air filter
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_927357160cdb4ffdaeb30bff1a55cf6a-1.jpg
now i have another box of more new parts somewhere. i just cant find them because i know im missing my gold moroso valve covers, and some other interior parts. so i got another box to find. but theres some of the stuff.
got the transmission finished and installed so i brought it back home. and took it out by the lake for a test drive and to take the official "Before" Pictures.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_8a5abcf920154ba88223ea86aa6a3e55-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_b7f0f4b1ed1f46fb9c4e56911eca6258-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_14ad472ccc604d82a236866c1b2fef21-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_674510145f414b52867c10ca6d9e2466-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_7213132ad8bb4864bed1df84834d0c6d-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_2aa21f71b7704d72b20ef6953d93b637-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_a0daff526e6e430a9b323c8fed128b58-1.jpg
So All of that above happened In august and september. Then there was a long break in this period due to some life issues.
So this next part of the post all happenes from january 12th - To Present.
-January 12th 2009,
today i did a little work before i took it out to the shop to go under the knife. insured it for 30 days and got a trip permit so i can drive it to my new shop, because its about 15 miles out of town, and this car needs a good driving, plus its a pain in the ass to tow a trailer up that loong step ass hill with out borrowing my buddys diesel.
Wired in the LED tail lights, and fixed the wiring issues with the head lights, and bolted down the front seat. so it was atleast Semi legal to drive. Couple vids...
My Flasher is out and i didnt realise untill after this video. So the turn signals are all messed up right now. (plus the tail lights are on teh wrong side of the car) So ignore the turn signals right now lol. But i got a new flasher, just havnt installed it yet.
And i havnt ordered my new lenses yet either. So yes they will have tail light lenses when they are finished. i just needed them to drive 15 miles in the dark...
YouTube - DSCF0339 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cvDkyO96C-M)
Carb was being a pos from sitting all winter and getting gunked up. Not sure why... ran fine before. So started it up and played with it some. Running pretty good now.
YouTube - DSCF0340 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gPGYC9HSc1A)
So i drove it out to the shop tonight. Had a buddy following me in his 13.7 second 1/4 mile car... Turning onto highway 197 gunned it and opend her up from about a 15 mph roll....tires busted loose for a bit, and his ass Still could NOT keep up what so ever hahaha. Freaking looove this motor. Im banking its a 12.8 second car as it sits right now. (with better rubber of course)
So the sanding will start tomorrow. After that comes cutting the panels away, and making new ones! from scratch...
and tons more.. This will be finished Before spring hopefully. Summer for sure. So expect updates rather quickly over the winter :)
January 24th,
10 Days into the project.
Well took my mom and step dad out to the shop today to see the car. So i knew it would be a good day to bring the camera and snap some pictures since i wouldnt be doing any real work.
(i only have a $900 dollar camera, and i dont like to bring it to the shop where its going to get damaged, or sanding particles in it)
And just to make you appreciate the work thats been put into this a little more.
EVERYTHING you see thats in primer grey started out as a flat piece of metal. every single bend and shape and mold has been put in there by me, 100% hand made. Havnt bought a single patch panel. Which has saved thousands of dollars.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_fb49ced64e3b4829bcb32859202e8b71-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_9a8cd19ed7154d6a94721646d4c09398-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_e9c3599a8eb74295826a2b8c2a8500e2-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_a17cdb3f1b5a4b168531a883c175a16c-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_04bbb0b33eaf4d8a9dd55540eb3045ea-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_2f5caaff88b34319818099953003cc9a-1.jpg
So first part to really fix was the hood. For some reason this corner rusted pretty bad. So after some new metal later..
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_53814b05e67e4b22923b7df3ddcbcba3-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_d4e94b3277ed4f1a880d6f382c6f16dd-1.jpg
This is about the only perfect part on the car haha.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_fa41acfddc2640d6a2c24dc8b324b554-1.jpg
Next was to attack all the rear panels.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_2558c7cb06214980b9e6c0f08ad822ba-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_1facca2a9cb0491c8d0c251a3ec3b3ad-1.jpg
Keep in mind. all this primer grey was hand made!!
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_7d627e11215a4b9bbdea54f63a861225-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_fe46919136f24d0084ed6c24707108f4-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_c0e9aaaa700240a1918c9aca0994c2ba-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_c5b5ab2974164c70ad2d27f039a51c8e-1.jpg
New rain gaurds, and corners of the roof have all been completely remade from scratch! Before the original gutters were held on by caulking from teh dip shit who "restored" this car the first time. It rusted so bad. the roof was pretty much only being held on by the culking. another 2 years of sitting and the roof could have collapsed in probably.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_02543fd358a3425ab4f7162fd8ef1d3a-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_7309d7519ff04642aff5ca484c680173-1.jpg
hasnt been sanded and primered yet. But glazed and ready :)
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_90b0f997417648e8b45b8171b0b0321c-1.jpg
The spoiler made the lip of the trunk rust clear threw. So the last 3" of trunk again, made from scratch!
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_4f73c7a185be43349fbda51773ce98fa-1.jpg
No more big scratch/dent!! flawless once again! (that mark is where the body line got sanded to bare metal, its not a scratch)
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_e2885ffb351d4fcaad110c3eeef80728-1.jpg
Today we did a little sanding on the cowl. and that was it.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_a2e352447d5345aa83b2dc81088c55a1-1.jpg
the exterior rust is 90% fixed. Still have to remake half the edges around the windows. Fix a little more in the center of the hood. and that should be it. Then we are going to start on the interior/floor and the roof. I think tomorrow were going to pressure wash everything and burn all that paint off. Nothing like extremely hot water (that actually burnt threw my work boot one time and scortched my foot) to really clean a old rust bucket up!
January 27th 2009 (my 21st birthday! haha)
All the window trims have been remade and are rust free now, and have been coated with rust protectant.
Rust has been taken care of in the floor, and rust coated. Dynamat is coming next.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_c05591732cfa4ac7b1a1c5fdeb19121e-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_cd63458c51454368afa7967e1f06a5d4-1.jpg
Originally the dash got painted Gloss white. In the sun this put such a glare on the windshield you could not see a DAMN thing. it was horrible. So this is the primer/rust coat. It will be flat black soon. Sorry for the blurry picture.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_b17da3b9372e4ceda8a85cebcb94bde0-1.jpg
Roof taken care of. (por15) Dynamat coming in next, and head liner going in right after!
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_e21387a0f3824904ae51f4978596def8-1.jpg
i spent about 4 HOURS sanding in the engine bay today. But its ready to get painted now!
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_1f9536fb4efe4f6ebba10344de2a20ae-1.jpg
New headliner getting ready to go in. Probably tomorrow.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_4b026d51c6524064a5e7713812f13035-1.jpg
Trunk had a tiny bit of rust, put in a new plate. Hit it with the rust protectant, and then nailed it with this grey speckly trunk coating.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_82a84cee937744118edf76e0ca264e16-1.jpg
general shots.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_3368a005e3884307a89665e0bc625207-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_3db3b921456343c091ba0f66708bf937-1.jpg
Painted the underside of the hood. Almost looks brand new!
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_116652de33ff433d9d2494fab16f534c-1.jpg
Been busting ass and really hammering this car out. Hoping to have it in the paint booth in the next WEEK!
Lots more coming very soon :)
Febuary 1st.
Heres some updates.
Engine bay before...
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_47122d00abf74f16ba79da6cf2eda4f9-1.jpg
After a nice pressure wash, new paint job, and some detailing, its all shinney again! (and its still not finished! theres only more going on to make it shine more!)
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_095d374c6617463faa2014fe87262597-1.jpg
Cleaned up the nice old mickey thompsons, and had my sister do her fancy pin striping work on them. Not getting rid of these cherrys!
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_39c663a85cb548efab683484c5bbb9df-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_922abb7e006b4420b06fcdc2e31adf96-1.jpg
Febuary 5th,
parts came in!!
It was like Christmas in febuary today!! with a box that was as tall as ME!!!
The shipping company made it feel like christmas a little bit more with there ultra high tech fancy packing paper!
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_c50ad3090982499a8e468d4f3e3740ab-1.jpg
$800 bucks doesnt buy you very much!
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_07d3b36b4d0c4e0b9e2ead9fe679cdd4-1.jpg
not much at all...
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_22b539c7ff664cadadb139a0750ba376-1.jpg
30 freaking POUNDS of dynamat!
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_69dd4a555c6f445f959f1804518db26f-1.jpg
New grill, new rear deck with speaker cut outs! hooray! lol
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_cb9dca6a254a454184bf715685e5726a-1.jpg
New gaskets, seals, weather stripping, side mirrors, Tail light lenses. (forgot to freaking order my reverse light lenses damn it!!
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_74fb6a81e66647269e8701df39c6358e-1.jpg
New glove box, and every single interior screw, clip, bracket, and mount there is all in brand new stainless steel :D
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_1b7d81f1cdda4886a23398268863d486-1.jpg
I was going to paint it tomorrow morning, but i think im going to hold off till after the weekend. Going on a weekend long trip with the quads and some buddys, so i dont think i have time tomorrow to throw out some paint before i have to take off.
But you should have a good update monday with a fully painted car!
Febuary 8th,
Fresh Paint as of tonight =]
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_89f866cba5d049d6ab800f08ed46fefd-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_1f292f7066e742db8f2181eeda1adbb7-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_ea7616fcb04847fe9952dd2fe22c1298-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_f057cf48d4ad43ca8381a2c04c314ec1-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_d4379441ddc141af90a835a890aabe59-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_0ac418468745441f80652ec114e939eb-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_a094694447074e2a997042c66aa7ca0c-1.jpg
Febuary 10th,
small update. I tried taking better pictures of the paint, but i just cant in the crappy shop light.
anyways i got one more run i just found on the fender to fix, and then ill go crazy on wet sanding, then it will get its top coat, and then of course buff it and all that good stuff!
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_17b4ad5bf6a54db3afa2549bb333737a-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_9b5d22d934dd4c8cbe6236fa1af17b14-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_0be167914d8c420b92c102538e98188d-1.jpg
Got the floor covered in dynamat
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_e2323b96ab5842b09d3a34b34699024c-1.jpg
New head liner is in and most the wrinkles finally pulled out. There is dynamat in the roof of the car as well.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_0732ce1f6e334878a6be7aac00c08c11-1.jpg
This summer when it heats up and stretches ill be able to work that wrinkle out and get it tight. but untill then... it has to stay... :(
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_c726feb5d6ac4230ae6b6ddaeba9e654-1.jpg
dash all painted. yes its the same color as the outside of the car.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_bd7ea3e8a2574cdb9c7717ccb838054f-1.jpg
anyways more soon.
Febuary 13th,
another $300 bucks in parts showed up today....
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_d7bde3eff414451e83e0eadfab2e3cba-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_2da1f2f87c7e48c3866e9c9c95167792-1.jpg
more coming soon!
Febuary 19th,
ive got the entire car wet sanded, cut and buffed now. And been working on putting it back together, its nearing completion! Im busting my ass to get it finished by march 14th! I really wanna bring it to the PRE dyno day.
But i havnt been bringing my camera to the shop sorry. so i dont have any pictures of that. ill take some soon!
But my LED's came in today. so here was the next project.
started out with some cardboard, punched some holes, stuffed in some LED's and glued them down.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_aedf6b9ab3024500abaabd3d0f2e4ed2-1.jpg
Did some wire running and soldering on the back side..
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_d75bc0a5b881467d929777f25a1d8ad6-1.jpg
Taped it up and got it ready to install.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_8d9dbeffe0b54bbcbd2e2a9dc07d3e3f-1.jpg
Glued it down.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_a6d4614653f5430cadf4eda2b1849124-1.jpg
Tested it.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_085c8000fd3c450c823e6c37deec14d9-1.jpg
New Reverse light lenses came in finally. (Light off)
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_60ee07e716a24cff8ffb0ab6a28ce747-1.jpg
Back up lights on, ;)
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/l_787d83e9e7e2448e9afa37a607ba79a4-1.jpg
They are very bright actually, but my camera took a dark picture with the very white lights on... so they are not near as dim as the picture seems.
Also i know, not quite as fancy as the nice digitail boards i put in for the brake/tail lights.. but hey. your talking about 200 bucks, vs 8 bucks!
So that catches you up to current. Today is the 21st of course. Ill be heading out to the shop later to take a few pictures and work some more on putting it back together. So expect anotehr update tonight/tomorrow!!
Thanks for looking! Comments welcome.