Hitman's Pontiac Trans Am Forum
Trans Am Photos => Restoration Projects => Topic started by: TransAm_Stan on January 30, 2011, 09:07:34 PM
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Heading out in the morning to pick up this machine.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=320643116314&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT
I will fix pics when I get back.
Although it does not have the 455 like I wanted, it pretty much has everything else. Sometimes you get what you need instead of what you want. But thats ok. It leaves room for project #2...
I call it a money pit with all the fondness that I can possibly muster. I know its going to take alot of time, and alot of money. I decided on a project after looking at this car. He wanted 16.5K...
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180616385497&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT
After careful inspection I declined to buy. I left with a feeling that I can build a better one for less money. I stand by that statement. My total budget is 16.5k for this build. I realistically believe I will come in well under that figure. ALTHOUGH there are some items I will be purchasing that will not be included in the price, but realistically should be included. They are, but not limited to: rotisserie, pressure media blaster, spray guns, etc. With me doing all the work involved & bringing in hired guns for the specialty work (blocking for instance) I believe I can stay under my goal, including the above tools. We shall see.
I know everyone wants to see pics so I will be taking them from the first time I lay eyes on it to when the last decal is applied. Also I will have PLENTY of questions. I hope everybody will put up with my incessant question asking. Some questions may seem trivial to some, but to me, as a noob to TA's, even the most minute question has merit, at least to me. So thanks in advance...
'Tis all for now.
Blue Skies,
Stan
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Good looking project and love the silver car. What up with all the blue suspension under the project car?
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Hope the process goes smoothly. We will all be waiting.
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seems like a nice project :) good luck with it :)
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Looks like a nice project. Keep us updated with your progress.
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Any news?
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Well I have TA in my garage! Let me tell you a story...
So I head out for Queens New York this morning. My GPS decides to take me downtown to get to Queens. What a nightmare. And I was flying solo to boot. I just finished chatting on the cell phone & passing the Empire State Building when a cop motions me over. Seems like talking on the cell & driving is a no no in Manhattan. Hit me for at least 135.00. Not to mention the 80 bux in tolls I payed. I was ready to throw that GPS out the window. Feels good to vent...
At first glance this is going to be more of a project that I figured. I have a feeling (not sure yet) that some if all of the previous body repair will have to be done over. I will look at it more closely Tomorrow. I hate bodywork...
Heres a pic of my ride(s)..
(http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415/ONThewayback_2.jpg)
I am tired... Night night to all.
Stan
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Doesn't look bad from here. Hope it checks out well
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Stan check on this if you can sooner than later. I believe you can'nt use roller lifter unless you have a roller cam and I from what I read in the description it is just a hydro flat tappet cam.
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Stan check on this if you can sooner than later. I believe you can'nt use roller lifter unless you have a roller cam and I from what I read in the description it is just a hydro flat tappet cam.
I have all the receipts from the motor build (so PO says) and I will check into that.
Stan
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You know we expect tons of photos Stan :)
Doubt you will need me for anything, but if so I can call.
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Day One Deconstruction:
I looked. And Looked. No build sheet.
Pulled the interior today. Floorboards look GREAT. I was surprised. It will need a complete interior. Eventually. Depends how tight finances get I can recondition some items.
Dash is not cracked. Decent console. Seat base wires all broken. I consider that little stuff.
My biggest fear is the bodywork that has been done. I have a feeling, although I will not know until I break out the 36 grit what is going on. Keeping fingers crossed. If I had to guess one of three scenarios: 1) Horrible 2) Disgusting or my fav 3) Criminal. Either way I do not think it is going to be good.
And no sanding in my garage until I construct a garage within a garage because I do not want an inch of dust over everything. Call me anal...
Have not crawled underneath it yet. Right now I still need to have the car mobile. I need to remove some MX & street bikes. Going to be a couple days before I get the bikes to my fathers for storage. Weather has been a killer lately & looks like it is not getting any better in the near future.
Items that I know I have to have:
Headlight cowl nose thingee
Air cleaner base.
complete interior
I cannot seem to get the kick panels out. What is the trick?
Shankster: I have been holding out on taking pics. I will try to get some this afternoon.
One other item I have been toying around with. I see no one has posted the dollar amount that they have spent on the build as they progressed on their restoration. I am thinking of doing this. But it might scare me. LOL Any thoughts?
Stay Warm,
Stan
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Going to order the Pontiac CD tonight. I was searching out reference material when I came across this:
http://www.autobody101.com/content/training-videos/
Anybody ever use this type of media before?
Thanks All...
Stan
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Going to order the Pontiac CD tonight. I was searching out reference material when I came across this:
http://www.autobody101.com/content/training-videos/
Anybody ever use this type of media before?
Thanks All...
Stan
Start your excel sheet of totals :)
Body work is the worse, especially when you can't weld. I don't know of anything that tops it.
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For you pic hoes...
This is why my garage is full!!!!
(http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415/My%20Trans%20Am/Garage1_2.jpg)
(http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415/My%20Trans%20Am/IMG_625.jpg)
(http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415/My%20Trans%20Am/Dash_2.jpg)
(http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415/My%20Trans%20Am/Driverpan_2.jpg)
(http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415/My%20Trans%20Am/Passengerpan_2.jpg)
(http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415/My%20Trans%20Am/backseatpassangerpan_2.jpg)
(http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415/My%20Trans%20Am/passengerstriker.jpg)
(http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415/My%20Trans%20Am/Driverstriker.jpg)
(http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415/My%20Trans%20Am/motor_2.jpg)
More pics here
http://s656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415/My%20Trans%20Am/
Stan
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Nice to know what you think of me.... Haha. It looks pretty solid, but that door jam does not look right to me, but what do I know.
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Good looking project and love the silver car. What up with all the blue suspension under the project car?
The PO told me he took off all suspension components & had them cad plated. He also said his friend talked him into the blue paint. He also says he regrets that decision.
I will have to take apart, blast & repaint.
Stan
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Nice to know what you think of me.... Haha. It looks pretty solid, but that door jam does not look right to me, but what do I know.
Your correct it is not right. The car is not right in other places too. May be in real bad shape sheet metal wise. I will know once the 36 grit starts flying.
Stan
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Oh by the way, I am truly jealous of your garage....
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Congrats Stan, looks like a great project. 400/4spd is a great combo. I was a bit peed off at the $25 I paid in tolls going to Chicago and back for my purchase. I don't feel so bad now with your $80 experience. Look forward to seeing more pics as the work progresses.
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That 1/4 looks pretty rough. Hopefully it doesn't turn out to be a lost cause.
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Looks like a good project Stan.
BTW: That cell phone law has been in effect for a few years now for all of New York. This past year they added on texting as a ticketable offense so don't try that one either ;)
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Finally have the car under cover.
(http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415/My%20Trans%20Am/Undercover_2.jpg)
Sanding commences on the 'morrow.
Stan
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nice find.. Im going to watch this one for sure..
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Dragged out my DA, board sander & high speed air sanders. Only one worked was the High speed air sander. Ordered new sanders & paper this weekend.
I think I have lined up a donor 79 TA if I have to replace full quarters & striker area panels. Not sure if I need them yet. I will need a tail light panel though. Waiting on a brown truck. Sigh.
Stan
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What I do know:
The previous "body man" (i use that term VERY loosely) sure screwed things up. First thing I noticed was bondo over paint. Strike 1. Second I noticed was incomplete welding of quarters & inner fender wells. Strike 2. Third thing I noticed is the quarter was put over parts of the existing sheet metal with the biggest portion of the old qtr. cut out. Strike 3. I could go on about the holes in the striker area or the crappy patch panels in the tail light panel area, but I do not want to bore you peeps.
What I don't know.
I have a wet area that is on the passenger floorboards. Dont know where its coming from. Kinda looks like it is coming from somewhere higher. Pad between the heater box & firewall sheetmetal is damp. I am looking for holes & cracks & poor seals but I dono yet.
To be truthful it really bummed me out. So much in fact that I started looking for another car...
But alas, I came around & now I have a line on several different ways to proceed.
Found a gent thats about 5 hrs. away from me with a (he says) perfect shell. I can cut that one up & apply it to my project. This same gent knows where a 76 455 white exterior & blk interior car is. Mmmm... yummy.
Also found a 81 turbo car less motor & tranny that supposedly has an excellent body.
At the very least I am going to visit the gent thats 5 hrs away this weekend & come back with something so my project can proceed or terminate it & start another.
He also has alot of parts for a 76 & a 79. If you need something let me know by PM & the highest price you want to pay and your phone # & I will see if I can help you out. If I can get it cheaper than your high price is I will. I am not looking to make money here, rather to help out peeps on this forum.
Till I type again...
Stan
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Stan,
Without seeing your car in person I can only offer a guess on the dampness you're finding....heater core leaking. The good news is that its a relatively cheap fix. The bad news is you're going to expand your vocabulary a bit and spend a few hours replacing it.
Other than that, its *possible* that your cowl has some rust in it but we'd need pics to determine that.
I'd place money on the heater core being your culprit though. How is the coolant level in the radiator/overflow bottle?
As for the sheetmetal repairs by the "hack"...I wouldn't let it get you down at all. I had over 1" of bondo on the driver's side rear quarter around the wheel lip that was cracking when I bought the car. Turns out the PO decided that was a good fix rather than replacing the entire quarter. The opposite side had a replacement quarter installed. The "hack" who did that work to my car, only tack welded it in place - there were 1" gaps between welds. Shop #1 tried finishing up the welds only to have the whole quarter pop off the car! Luckily that quarter was in good shape so they just welded the whole thing back in place.
Keep that chin up! You've got a much better starting point than I had with my Y88. Just look at my floors:
(http://home.roadrunner.com/~cdjmcarter/1978-ta/images/week-3-2.jpg)
Only thing keeping me from going through those floors was the carpetting!
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Brian,
I did not even consider the heater core. I had visions of resealing the windshield, pulling the dash apart etc.
What you say makes sense 'cause the "water" does not seem to be evaporating. It is behaving just like a 50/50 H2O & glycol. Kinda greasy & not evaporating. GREAT suggestion / observation!
Sounds like this is not an easy procedure. Is there a "how to" somewhere from those that have been there before? Might save a few 4 letter words!
EDIT: Never mind I found what I needed. It does not sound like fun. Easier, I am sure, than removing a windshield & resealing it!
Those floor pans look like swiss cheese. I would freak out if I pulled the carpet up & saw that! Good luck on your project!
Regards,
Stan
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The latest Update:
Purchased several tools. Air grinders, air board sander, Miller 180 welder, seam knife & several spot weld cutters.
I also made a trip to NC to purchase a 79 shell. It will be donating full quarters to my 76. While I was there I also purchased a carb, nose cowl, horns, radio, tilt steering wheel & Rally rims.
Looked at the 76 455 but it was too far gone for the price he wanted. He also had a 79 Formula with no motor & tranny he wanted to sell me. I passed on that also. I am surprised I showed restraint...
I have never pulled any panel or replaced any panel on a car before. Hopefully between this forum & the Kevin Tetz Paintucation DVD's I purchased ( i got the full set) I can accomplish this daunting task. I am not here to make a 20 foot restoration. I am aiming for 2 feet! :)
(http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415/My%20Trans%20Am/carb.jpg)
(http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415/My%20Trans%20Am/rims.jpg)
(http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415/My%20Trans%20Am/shell2.jpg)
(http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415/My%20Trans%20Am/shell1.jpg)
The fun starts tomorrow...
Until I have something new...
Stan
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Wow stan!
Good luck
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Thanks Shank. I am goiing to need it!!
I forgot.
I also procured MOST of a shaker base. It doesn't have the "snout" on it.
Also ordered a new tail light panel.
Stan
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Good luck with the car :) It will turn out great ;)
So that 76' 455-4spd was a lot of work to get good again?
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Brian,
I did not even consider the heater core. I had visions of resealing the windshield, pulling the dash apart etc.
What you say makes sense 'cause the "water" does not seem to be evaporating. It is behaving just like a 50/50 H2O & glycol. Kinda greasy & not evaporating. GREAT suggestion / observation!
Sounds like this is not an easy procedure. Is there a "how to" somewhere from those that have been there before? Might save a few 4 letter words!
EDIT: Never mind I found what I needed. It does not sound like fun. Easier, I am sure, than removing a windshield & resealing it!
Those floor pans look like swiss cheese. I would freak out if I pulled the carpet up & saw that! Good luck on your project!
Regards,
Stan
No problem.
BTW: That photo I posted is of my Y88 during resto. The results are in my signature line after (3) body shops. My wallet and bank account are a ton lighter due to a few poor decisions I won't get into.
So like I said, you have one heck of a good starting point with yours. Good luck!
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How is this one coming along?
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How is this one coming along?
Hi all.
Was in the process of replacing sheetmetal around the rear quarter area. Went to FL. to race motocross. Came back home with a broken wrist. I am at least 2 months out + rehab before I can touch the car again.
Have only had the car a month or so but i needed a break! LOL I sure got one. Literally!
Will post more when I get back into the swing of things.
Stan
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Oh, sorry to hear stan, get well!
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OUCH!!!
I take a brake from mine all the time. I'm down to about 5 hr's a week on it.
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Howdy all.
Not much to report except one tidbit on the 76.
I have procured one of the holy grail parts (as far as I an concerned) for the 76. I needed this to get me going again on the rear sheet metal.
Any guesses?
(http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415/My%20Trans%20Am/IMG_0695.jpg)
Stan
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Hummmmmmm?
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Thats a pretty big box, I wonder what's hiding in there???
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Great work so far stan. Your killin us man whats in the box??????? Keep up the good work, its alot of work but well worth it.
Josh
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im voting air compressor
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eroc I would say your right, but we all still wanna see it. If it is how big and 2 stage or one lol
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You cats are killing me with the guesses. ;D
Suffice to say all the guesses are in the cold to freezing temperature zone.
Stan
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Sand blaster?
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OEM quarters ? or tail panel ?
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Stan may never show us he is enjoying the guessing game to much lol. Maybe one of those Holbert welders that run on a gas motor the box is about the right size only its standing up and not laying down.
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Think I have the answer!!! Guess a little insider info never hurt anybody.
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a jet engine for your trans am thats about to fly?
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4speed guessed correctly. And yes TAKID455 had insider info. He visited me last week when he was in town on business.
(http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415/MY%2079%20TA/quartersboxed.jpg)
Now i need to get to work pulling off the old quarters. That should be fun for someone who has only welded in one teeny patch pane before. Good thing I bought the Kevin Tetz Paintucation DVD library! :o ::)
Stan
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remember to try to save your trunk water/gasket gutter when you cut the old quarters off. unless your new ones have it on them.
I forgot on my 68 and had to buy new re-crap that doesnt fit.
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remember to try to save your trunk water/gasket gutter when you cut the old quarters off. unless your new ones have it on them.
I forgot on my 68 and had to buy new re-crap that doesnt fit.
I had planned to leave it in place & cut around it. Thanks for the heads up! Although I have not looked to see if the new qtrs. have the gutter.
Stan
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Several things have happened since I last typed.
Pulled off the donor shell some pieces I might need, trunk drop offs, piece between the tail pan & the qtrs, and the inner tail pan.
Pulled the Drivers quarter off of the 76. Also the outer wheel house. I am into a very steep learning curve.
I have on hand L & R MOS quarters, new tail light panel, new L & R outer wheel house panels. I forgot I ordered new trunk drop offs. I remember someone said to save the OEM drop offs cause the repops fit like crap. Now I have 2 wats to go on the drop offs.
Here is the first test fit of the outer wheel house & the quarter.
(http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415/My%20Trans%20Am/LQTR.jpg)
Its getting there. Has been so damn hot & humid that I have not worked on it much. I still want to have the shell under clear by late fall...
Ordered my Epoxy primer & hi-build coatings today from Southern Polyurethanes inc. (SPI)
http://www.southernpolyurethanes.com/
Ordered some weld-thru primer today also. Maybe this weekend I can start welding on the car.
That just about brings the forum up to speed.
Hope to see some of you at the nats, that is If I can pick up some good doors & a trunk lid. ( I am still looking )
Stan
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Looking good to me, how do you find the fit and finish of those quarters?
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LOVES IT>>>>^
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So Nice. Cant go wrong with new. Great looking work. Are you going to lead fill in the roof joint?
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Just getting up to speed. Doing a VERY nice job!
Gunner
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Looking good to me, how do you find the fit and finish of those quarters?
Around the door / roof area very good. the trunk area is another story. See here...
http://www.78ta.com/smf/index.php?topic=33504.0
The only real issue that freaks me out is that the NOS quarters do not come with the metal protrusions that hold the trim hold down plastic parts. Also I am using repops of the outer wheel well. I am having issues with that item. I will beat it into submission in the end.
So Nice. Cant go wrong with new. Great looking work. Are you going to lead fill in the roof joint?
Good question. And one I asked around myself. I am leaning to using a metal impregnated body filler. I do not remember the name. I would not rule out the lead process yet. Especially if the filler will / might have issues down the road. This restoration is filled with new experiences, whats another to learn?
I had originally planned on restoring the underneath. After scraping off the tar like substance around the inner wheel area I have changed my mind. It would take me weeks to prepare the underbody for sandblasting. For now I will scrape areas I need to attend, replace brake & fuel lines and let it be for now.
Thanks for the replies.
Stan
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All-Metal by USC - good for the seem area
May have a trunk lid for ya bud. just a matter of my next trip. been busy in NJ keeping the plant there filled w/ work.
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All-Metal by USC - good for the seem area
May have a trunk lid for ya bud. just a matter of my next trip. been busy in NJ keeping the plant there filled w/ work.
Yes, that is the product. Nice of you to chime in here TAKID455!
I will take that lid if its nice (no rust or minimal).
Time frame isn't an issue as you well know... LOL
Now I need to hunt down doors...............
Stan
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if your going to be around the Monday after the Nats. you can look at the set I have. Im 30mi north west of Dayton.
or we can go a little bit north 15mi from me to a honey hole
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Thanks for the offer 4speed!
If I go to the nats it will prob be just Saturday. Pick up /order some parts, look at a few pretty birds & head back home.
Stan
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Looks good
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Ditto.... Looks really good!
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Just getting caught up on this thread. Looks like a great project Stan - good year (76) :) Hope to meet you at the NATS.
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Just getting caught up on this thread. Looks like a great project Stan - good year (76) :) Hope to meet you at the NATS.
Thanks bones....
As for the nats.... I have ordered a shirt with TransAm_Stan on the back. If you see me say hi please!!!
Stan
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Time to stoke this thread back to life...
Snow is almost ready to fly here in West Virginia. This means I can dedicate most of my days & nights to the TA!
To bring all up to date. I did visit the TA nats. Picked up some goodies from Inline Tube. Met Hammer face to face. I cannot thank him enough for taking my phone calls & informing me on the hows & whys of the Trans Am before I purchased one. Also met KentuckyYeti. Cool peeps fo sure!
TAKID455 stopped by a couple times & helped me out with the 79. Brought me a couple choice pieces parts. The dude has some serious mechanical skills. Mucho thanks Larry!
Picked up NOS L&R side full quarters. Got a repop tailpan & some repop outer wheel houses. Right now I am in the process of fitting the sheet metal.
Wish I could find a nice set of NOS or oem used wheel houses. I am not getting a warm fuzzy using the repops.
Heading up to Erie, PA this Saturday to pick up doors, non AC bits & who knows what else I can think of. Prolly pick up some stuff for the 79 also. I will be tackling that machine next winter. If anyone wants to ride along I'll pick you up! LOL
Decided on deleting the AC from the engine bay. I just like the looks of the space it frees up. I have also almost decided to paint the cowl & under the hood a body color (white). Some have advised against this move, mainly because of the dirt it would show. I just think it would look bitchen... 'nuff said.
Picked up some tools... Miller Tig Welder, 2T engine hoist, 2T cherry picker & a several air tools. Looking to buy a media blaster next.
Ordered a load of products from Southern Polyurethanes Inc. (SPI) Epoxy Primer, 2K high build primer & wax & grease remover. I will shoot PPG for color along with SPI's clear. SPI Has a great website if you need more info on their product. They have what Looks to be a fantastic forum on painting. It has helped me out immensely.
http://www.southernpolyurethanes.com/
Pics to follow...
Stan
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Picked up 3 doors in Erie a couple weeks ago. Complete set off of a 76. rust isn't too bad.
Also picked up a CHERRY 79 passenger (I think) door. No rust at all.
Other items picked up...
blower motor with cage for a non ac car.
another trunk lid (makes 2 I have)
Oyster seats for a 79 (Hey it was a good deal!)
Oyster door panel for same
pair of rear spoiler ends for the 79
I did pick up a pressurized media blaster from HF.
This is the big news...
Wonder what came in this NOS GM box? Hummmm....
(http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415/My%20Trans%20Am/th_BOX.jpg) (http://s656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415/My%20Trans%20Am/?action=view¤t=BOX.jpg)
Its the final pieces of the puzzle (literally) for the replacement of sheet metal
(http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415/My%20Trans%20Am/th_contents.jpg) (http://s656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415/My%20Trans%20Am/?action=view¤t=contents.jpg)
I am almost giddy....
1 pair of NOS rockers...
1 pair of NOS door jam reinforcements (don't know the correct term)
3 pair of NOS outer wheel houses
Don't know why I bought 3 pair of "houses". I figure someone might need the other 2 pair.
Now I can pull the old rockers off & get started fitting sheet metal. Here is where I am at currently....
(http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415/My%20Trans%20Am/th_rearend.jpg) (http://s656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415/My%20Trans%20Am/?action=view¤t=rearend.jpg)
And yes I just learned how to make thumb nails on photo bucket. Isn't life grand!
'Till I have more...
Stan
* I would like to thank Bobg for turning me on to the add for the NOS parts! Thanks Bob!
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Could def use the extra wheel housings for one of the cars.
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Could def use the extra wheel housings for one of the cars.
I will hold back a set for you!
Stan
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Nice work 8)
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Nice work 8)
Thankee Green-Hornet! But the work is just beginning! LOL
Pulled the front sheet metal off & yanked the motor out. Now I have to remove that subframe.
BTW: Getting the headers off was a SOB! Never, I mean NEVER will I put a set on a 2nd gen Firebird. What a PITA. Going Ram Air manifolds.
I need to fabricate some kind of body cart before I cut the rockers away & start welding in panels. I have been searching online for ideas. Hopefully Have it done by midweek.
I put an add in my local Bulletin Board for a bodyman to help me. Weeknights, weekends or even weekdays. I had 2 responses from what I consider to be backyard hammer & screwdriver body men. I am trying to seek help in keeping me on the straight & narrow path to sheet metal nirvana. Not going too good. I may have to get myself out of this one all by myself! :o
Some things I am kicking around:
Hydraulic Clutch
Electric fan
painting cowl area body color (white)
upgrading front brakes
slitting my wrists 'cause of this project...
Will post pics later this week.
Stay warm!
Stan
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just leave the thing as a roller to do your body panels... then remove the subframe....
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just leave the thing as a roller to do your body panels... then remove the subframe....
I thought of that Eroc. I feel I need to raise the shell a couple feet to be able to poke & scratch around the rockers. Plus, as of this writing only the subframe is left on the front.
I believe, possibly, maybe, could be, I have created more work for myself. Won't be the first time, nor the last!
Stan
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More work has been done. Parts fitted but not yet welded are passenger rocker, inner wheelhouse, full quarter & tailpan. I am starting to get anxious as to how everything is going to line up. So I decided to mock up before welding in the rocker.
(http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415/My%20Trans%20Am/IMG_0753.jpg)
(http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415/My%20Trans%20Am/IMG_0754.jpg)
(http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415
/My%20Trans%20Am/IMG_0755.jpg)
I am in need of the sheet metal that goes between the rear of the quarter & the tail pan, behind the tail lights. Pics below is for a 79, I need one for a 74-78 (i assume). I also need some tail light nuts. I have none. If you can help me out hit me up with a PM.
(http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415/My%20Trans%20Am/eyebrows3.jpg)
I still need to pull the drivers rocker. I am hoping to weld in the pass. rocker before I start on the drivers side.
That is all for now.
Happy Holidays,
Stan
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Happy holidays stan,i wish i had the tail sectiones you need and the nuts for the tail lights i would have given them free just to help,i know what its like to need parts like yesterday,i sometimes wait 6 month or more before i can get stuff for my project.
merry christamss
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Stan looking great. I was wondering where did you get your full quarters and tail pan? Everywhere I have seen quarters is just the lower sections.
Thanks,
Josh
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Stan looking great. I was wondering where did you get your full quarters and tail pan? Everywhere I have seen quarters is just the lower sections.
Thanks,
Josh
Josh,
Tail pan came from Rock Auto.
Full quarters at the right price are out there. Took me several months to track down a pair. Longer to find NOS rockers & outer wheel houses.
The NOS sheet metal was not cheap. I needed full quarters to fix a hack job somebody else did. I had no choice. Once I was into it I found I needed other metal...
Keep looking, full quarters are out there. you have to keep looking on the 'net & be patient.
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A big hearty Thank You to Bobg for coming through with sheet metal that goes between the rear of the quarter & the tail pan, behind the tail lights. Very cool guy.
Its been a very trying couple weeks. In my test fitting sheetmetal, I have had problems getting my trunk lid & quarter lines right. Not to mention hanging doors & adjusting them by myself. Added to the fact that I have no idea what I am/was doing. Bit I am happy to report its coming together.
I welded in both rockers. Welded in both wheel houses. welded in both trunk drop offs. This is where I had probs with my trunk lines. I fought it for 2 weeks. I was so frustrated to the point I was looking for another donor shell. I just needed to move the trunk 1/8" to the right. I was out of adjustment...
Come to find out after alot of head & butt scratching that i had a slightly bent hinge. A little heat and I am back in business.
Painted under both quarters with epoxy. The paint I am using I mix 50-50 black & red oxide & it comes out a perfect match for pontiac (GM) brown.
(http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415/My%20Trans%20Am/th_IMG_0763.jpg) (http://s656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415/My%20Trans%20Am/?action=view¤t=IMG_0763.jpg)
(http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415/My%20Trans%20Am/th_IMG_0759.jpg) (http://s656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415/My%20Trans%20Am/?action=view¤t=IMG_0759.jpg)
(http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415/My%20Trans%20Am/th_IMG_0762.jpg) (http://s656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415/My%20Trans%20Am/?action=view¤t=IMG_0762.jpg)
(http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415/My%20Trans%20Am/th_IMG_0761.jpg) (http://s656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415/My%20Trans%20Am/?action=view¤t=IMG_0761.jpg)
(http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415/My%20Trans%20Am/th_IMG_0760.jpg) (http://s656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415/My%20Trans%20Am/?action=view¤t=IMG_0760.jpg)
Today I started welding in the quarters. That is where I am now with the sheetmetal.
Ordered a set of Tri_Y headers. I was nervous, but Ron came through. There are at the coaters now getting a ceramic coating inside & out. I will be mating them up to a set of Pypes Transverse Muffler system.
Still ALOT to do. I can't see the light at the other end of the tunnel yet, but I can see the sign for the tunnel! LOL
That is all for now. Peace out...
Stan
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Looking good Stan, excellent work!
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This is probably stupid, but how do you paint the inside of a panel and weld it?
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This is probably stupid, but how do you paint the inside of a panel and weld it?
Shank,
The gold paint is weld thru primer. It is suppose to flow around the weld after you are done welding. Dono if it works, but I am trying to do the best with what info I am able to come up with.
Stan
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This is probably stupid, but how do you paint the inside of a panel and weld it?
Shank,
The gold paint is weld thru primer. It is suppose to flow around the weld after you are done welding. Dono if it works, but I am trying to do the best with what info I am able to come up with.
Stan
Cool I was wondering.
Thanks!
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Another milestone has been crossed....
One more day of welding & dressing of said welds & the shell sheet metal will be done. Too bad I ran out of gas for my MIG.
(http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415/My%20Trans%20Am/th_IMG_0765.jpg) (http://s656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415/My%20Trans%20Am/?action=view¤t=IMG_0765.jpg)
(http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415/My%20Trans%20Am/th_IMG_0764.jpg) (http://s656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415/My%20Trans%20Am/?action=view¤t=IMG_0764.jpg)
I thot I would throw in a pic of the tail end, mocked up.
(http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415/My%20Trans%20Am/th_IMG_0766.jpg) (http://s656.photobucket.com/albums/uu281/Whymee415/My%20Trans%20Am/?action=view¤t=IMG_0766.jpg)
After my welding is done I will start media blasting the underneath. Then a coupla coats of epoxy primer. Move to the interior area for some blasting & epoxy. Then I head on to prepping the shell for its coat of epoxy.
Till I have more to show...
Stan
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Update:
I am having a heck of a time getting various paints for this build. Most notably correct interior blue & correct engine paint.
After many trips locally, I finally ordered my engine paint from Bill Hirsch Auto.
http://www.hirschauto.com/prodinfo.asp?number=EE-QUART&variation=PON%20M%20BL%20L
The interior blue has been a pain also. Dupont finally came through. White is a no brainer. The blue was way off. He spent an hour tweaking the formula to come close to the blue I needed. At a 100 toads a quart I was swallowing hard...
I have been seam sealing like crazy. I am using Kent Flex-E-6000 Non Sag Seam Sealer. Pricey stuff. Two local body shops said this is the best. That was good enough for me...
http://www.lawsonproducts.com/shared/catalogimages/kentj/p10000j/p10491gp1.jpg
Yanked the subframe & painted it. I was lucky the nut keepers held. Quite a job for 1 person.
Still kicking around the idea of painting the cowl white (body color). I dono...
Purchased:
Pypes Traverse exhaust system
solid body mounts
a/c delete heater box
100' Fatmat
more epoxy primer
Door strikers
Aluminum Radiator
That's all for now. Pics with my next post.
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HOPE YOU GOT STAINLESS STRIKERS. TOTALLY STAINLESS HAS THEM FOR 2 frogs and 5 toads. get extra spacer washers.
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I have to assume no since I only paid 1 frog N 1 toad.
Am I going to be the laughing stock of the pond now? :o
I didn't realize that frogs were more expensive than toads. Stands to reason since you usually end up swimming to catch them!
Stan
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I thought sheet metal work was rough. That pales in comparison to making a panel straight. My fingers, eyes & hands are not singing the same song...
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I thought sheet metal work was rough. That pales in comparison to making a panel straight. My fingers, eyes & hands are not singing the same song...
Stan, try guide coating your filler you are trying to straighten. Saves some guess work and you can see every scratch and low spot. Also long diagonal strokes making and x motion over your work with an air board/idiot stick will work wonders for you.
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I thought sheet metal work was rough. That pales in comparison to making a panel straight. My fingers, eyes & hands are not singing the same song...
Stan, try guide coating your filler you are trying to straighten. Saves some guess work and you can see every scratch and low spot. Also long diagonal strokes making and x motion over your work with an air board/idiot stick will work wonders for you.
I have guide coat. Not used it yet. Prob is that my epoxy is black. Wont help until I get the high build primer on & then I will guide coat it. Although I guess I could guide coat the filler... Right now I am trying to get it somewhat straight (ie just a small wave at ya!), shoot it with epoxy again (bare metal) then my primer.
I bought Durablocks. Waiting on the 16 incher to come in. I might spring for the 30 incher. Time will tell.
What I ended up doing was block my black epoxy with 320 lightly. The "divots" show up pretty good. But I have one door that's being a PITA.
X motion, 10-4 good buddy! I have looked at videos, read online "how to" articles. Nothing takes the place of hands on experience.
just another step to learn in the restoration! How many steps are there? ;)
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You can guide coat with any contrasting color. I use flat rattle can paint. If your epoxy is black, try dusting it with red rattle can primer. It all sands off any way. It is your friend, trust me.
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This car is SO trying my patience. Seems like every time I take something off to "peek inside" there is another gremlin. The latest find...
So I flip my motor over on the stand to replace my rope seal & pan gasket. I will be using the graphite rope & 1 piece gasket from BOP. Pan comes off. What do I see? No support for the dipstick. Hummm... I dig deeper. Loosen up the crank caps & start pulling them looking at the bearings as I go (they look horrible) & find that the oil holes in the crank are not radiused (spelling?) What fudge packer would turn a crank without relieving the holes at the cap bearings? Now I wonder about the crank journals. It bummed me out so much I just put a plastic bag on her & walked away...
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You are welcome Stan. The car looks like it is coming along nicely. Just be patient and it will all come together.
A big hearty Thank You to Bobg for coming through with sheet metal that goes between the rear of the quarter & the tail pan, behind the tail lights. Very cool guy.
You are welcome Stan. The car looks like it is coming along nicely. Be patient and good results will come of it.
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hang in there. just find a competent shop to clean up the crank. Install new bearing while you are at it. make sure to check clearances now before you send it off. Check w/ new bearings though.
I'm only a few hours away if you need anything :)
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Thanks Larry. If you were closer you would never get anything done, cause I would be bugging you all the time!
Update:
Block & crank going into the doctors for a clean & inspection. Hope the Doc sez things are ok...
Here are the particulars of the engine:
Block: 500557
Heads: 6X
Cam: Edelbrock 2157
Pistons: 2512P chamfered edge std. bore
Intake: Edelbrock Performer
Carb: Edelbrock
1.5 roller rockers
ARP rocker studs
Dbl. Roller chain
Manual Tranny
3:73 rear end (unconfirmed)
I will be adding....(at least)
Tribal Tubes Tri-Y's
Pypes tranverse exhaust (2.5)
Q-Jet rebuilt & rejetted
Remflex Header gaskets
BOP 1 pc. pan seal
Graphite Rope seal
fuel pump (found gas in the oil)
I might change out some stuff internally. I don't know yet. Depends what the "Doc" says.
Been sanding, filling, sanding, blocking lately. I hate bodywork... This door is giving me fits. I just know its going to wave at me when I get out of the car!
Also my drivers fender needs a patch panel, low, behind the wheel. Can't wait to tackle that job.
'Till I have more...
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A few thing to submit....
Engine:
Block cleaned
Bored .030
Crank turned .010 under
I was really having fits deciding what pieces parts to rebuild with. If I had more experience with engines I could have saved some money here. In the end I called Jim at Central Virginia Machine Service & asked his opinion. I feel he asked me the right questions & made a good recommendation.
I bought a Master kit off of him. Upgrades included forged pistons & rods. Will be using a Comp XE cam, either a XE274H or a XE268H.
With the above I fell I should have a strong lower end.
The heads are another story altogether.
So many heads so little time to educate myself on what I should do. Stock are 6X-8's. At Jims suggestion I went with a trade with him to 6X-4's. I sent him my 8's & this is what he had to say about my current valve train...
My rocker studs were for a SBC. strike 1...
Roller rockers were 1.5 & also for a SBC. strike 2
Original valves. Strike 3...
Only good thing is the castings are in good shape. yay...
He has not given me an estimate for what I need, but this is my guess...
Intake & exhaust valves
Brass valve guides
New rockers
ARP studs
Hopefully he can reuse my valve springs but at this point I would not bet a dime on it.
Engine is still at the machine shop. Will have it back in a week or two. Probably the same with the heads.
I did not expect to spend this $$ on the engine. It is going to seriously cut into the total project money. I just might have to leave the car in Flat black epoxy...
My Carb from Maryland Bandit came back the other day. I tried to rebuild it myself. Ordered all I needed from Cliff. Got the book. Sorry wasn't gonna happen in this lifetime. I haven't even opened the pkg. I hope my 700 dollar investment looks & performs well. Yeah 700. Makes me sick to spend that much money on a carb. But it is what it is...
As far as the shell is concerned...
It is still in epoxy primer. I lightly blocked it to find the small dings & fixed those. Driver door is in the same condition. Pass. door is giving me fits as well as the trunk lid. I am waiting for those 2 items to catch up to the rest of the shell & then continue with hi-build primer.
Interior:
What interior? There is not a thing in there. Nada. Zip...
I am still not happy with what I find for interior paint, dye, whatever you call it. Seems like the match for a 76 blue is non existent. I bought a can of Sem Color Coat "Pacific Blue" to do a test with. I have one original strip of blue that was under the package tray that is over spray from the factory. I hope to match it with something, someday.
On a personal note:
Last year I participated in a race in Florida during Bike Week. I ended up with a broken wrist. I am happy to report I attended the same race this year. No broken bones, BUT I did knock myself out at the SAME place as I crashed last year. Imagine that... I have raced motocross for 33 years & never been knock out. What a milestone. It sux getting old...
I have not worked on the car for the past few weeks. Right now with mother nature kicking up the heat early, I have had to start back to work early as well. It is quite possible this car will not be done until next spring.
Good thing I have a POS 79 to tool around in. Hope the motor holds together...
All for now...
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A few thing to submit....
Engine:
Block cleaned
Bored .030
Crank turned .010 under
I was really having fits deciding what pieces parts to rebuild with. If I had more experience with engines I could have saved some money here. In the end I called Jim at Central Virginia Machine Service & asked his opinion. I feel he asked me the right questions & made a good recommendation.
I bought a Master kit off of him. Upgrades included forged pistons & rods. Will be using a Comp XE cam, either a XE274H or a XE268H.
With the above I fell I should have a strong lower end.
The heads are another story altogether.
So many heads so little time to educate myself on what I should do. Stock are 6X-8's. At Jims suggestion I went with a trade with him to 6X-4's. I sent him my 8's & this is what he had to say about my current valve train...
My rocker studs were for a SBC. strike 1...
Roller rockers were 1.5 & also for a SBC. strike 2
Original valves. Strike 3...
Only good thing is the castings are in good shape. yay...
He has not given me an estimate for what I need, but this is my guess...
Intake & exhaust valves
Brass valve guides
New rockers
ARP studs
Hopefully he can reuse my valve springs but at this point I would not bet a dime on it.
Engine is still at the machine shop. Will have it back in a week or two. Probably the same with the heads.
I did not expect to spend this $$ on the engine. It is going to seriously cut into the total project money. I just might have to leave the car in Flat black epoxy...
My Carb from Maryland Bandit came back the other day. I tried to rebuild it myself. Ordered all I needed from Cliff. Got the book. Sorry wasn't gonna happen in this lifetime. I haven't even opened the pkg. I hope my 700 dollar investment looks & performs well. Yeah 700. Makes me sick to spend that much money on a carb. But it is what it is...
As far as the shell is concerned...
It is still in epoxy primer. I lightly blocked it to find the small dings & fixed those. Driver door is in the same condition. Pass. door is giving me fits as well as the trunk lid. I am waiting for those 2 items to catch up to the rest of the shell & then continue with hi-build primer.
Interior:
What interior? There is not a thing in there. Nada. Zip...
I am still not happy with what I find for interior paint, dye, whatever you call it. Seems like the match for a 76 blue is non existent. I bought a can of Sem Color Coat "Pacific Blue" to do a test with. I have one original strip of blue that was under the package tray that is over spray from the factory. I hope to match it with something, someday.
On a personal note:
Last year I participated in a race in Florida during Bike Week. I ended up with a broken wrist. I am happy to report I attended the same race this year. No broken bones, BUT I did knock myself out at the SAME place as I crashed last year. Imagine that... I have raced motocross for 33 years & never been knock out. What a milestone. It sux getting old...
I have not worked on the car for the past few weeks. Right now with mother nature kicking up the heat early, I have had to start back to work early as well. It is quite possible this car will not be done until next spring.
Good thing I have a POS 79 to tool around in. Hope the motor holds together...
All for now...
sorry to hear about the horrible trip here, $700 for the carb "HOLY SH%*T" as for the cylinder heads, i would fo sure do valve springs, they are cheap insurance
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Stan, hang in there brother! It does get better/easier eventually. Sounds like you have the makings of a tight bottom end of the motor and will soon have the top end together as well. Do yourself a favor and don't cut corners on the springs. Joe Dirt was spot on above with his advice about the springs. Just not worth it.
As for the interior
Are you looking for any parts? Are you having trouble duplicating the white? I know I did. I also know you a waiting on some info from me about a white perforated headliner material. Well Im still waiting on the swatch to arrive. In the meantime my off-white headliner material when held up to the seats and trim look pretty normal. Not the same but doesnt jump out at ya either. i havent decided if we are gonna spray it or not.
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As far as the valve spring are concerned, I am leaving that up to Jim at CVMS. He will put them on a machine & give me the word. No, I will not scrimp on a 150 dollar part.
I have not ordered any interior stuff other than Fatmat. I want to nail down the blue before I go in search of white. I am assuming (possibly incorrectly) the white will be an easy item to come by & spray.
I am sure I will need some interior pieces but at this time, since I am a TA virgin, I cannot see that far in advance as to what my requirements will be. Won't be starting on the interior until the shell is painted. That will be some time in the distant future.
It actually feels good not to work on the car. Like the pressure is off to get the panels straight. Although I will have to tackle them eventually. If I could find a decent door & trunk lid that is the route I would go. I will keep looking, although not very hard as work is in the way now.
Thanks for the words of encouragement...
Stan
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I have a nice trunk lid and door but im kinda far from you
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hey Stan, hang in there man it will all come together, as for the bodywork, yes it is a wicked process to get them straight, block, block, block, block then block some more and then when done block some more, by the time they are straight you should need 2 new shoulders, 2 wrist replacements, some skin graffing and of course your head examined
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Stan, you keep saying your a T/A virgin... Seems to me you are gaining some invaluable experience. We all go thru the emotions you are going through. It will take time and frustration. Being able to overcome these emotions and prevail is a wonderful feeling. Seems to me you are doing great and are making progress. Keep us posted as I enjoy seeing your progress. Mike
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sometimes all it takes is a visit to YOUTUBE to see some T/As in action to get the ball rolling again. heres a couple short ones that i like
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uf2iugXZOHI
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mm6fZeXthoM
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SEM from fbodywarehouse has color match for white and dark blue. http://www.fbodywarehouse.com/fbw/product.php?productid=199&cat=216&page=1
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Stan, you keep saying your a T/A virgin... Seems to me you are gaining some invaluable experience.
I still consider myself a TA virgin. Although you are correct to a point. The items that I have replaced, repaired, or reconditioned I do have experience. Although at this time that list is fairly short. By the time I am done with this project I guarantee the next one will go SO much smoother & easier.
I want to be able to be shown (or see) a part & know where it goes & what type of fasteners are used to hold it down. Right now I have a lot of loose parts that I did not remove (PO did) and I have no clue where it goes. But that's ok, its all part of the game...
Yeah I did say my next one will go smoother. I have a 79 driver I would like to bring back to a better condition. I should have my head examined...
Is there a doctor in the house? ;)
Hada76: Nice videos. ALthough I can't imagine toasting a set of 300 buck tires like that. Ok, maybe once...
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Stan, you keep saying your a T/A virgin... Seems to me you are gaining some invaluable experience.
I still consider myself a TA virgin. Although you are correct to a point. The items that I have replaced, repaired, or reconditioned I do have experience. Although at this time that list is fairly short. By the time I am done with this project I guarantee the next one will go SO much smoother & easier.
I want to be able to be shown (or see) a part & know where it goes & what type of fasteners are used to hold it down. Right now I have a lot of loose parts that I did not remove (PO did) and I have no clue where it goes. But that's ok, its all part of the game...
Yeah I did say my next one will go smoother. I have a 79 driver I would like to bring back to a better condition. I should have my head examined...
Is there a doctor in the house? ;)
Hada76: Nice videos. ALthough I can't imagine toasting a set of 300 buck tires like that. Ok, maybe once...
I could, whoa i remember back when the super duties would cook the hides for as long as you stepped on it, had a 3 spd 73 firebird must have had 2.42's in it and it would blaze the tires for like 400 feet used to make laugh my a$$ off, sometimes like hada said, it is worth it if you can smile. send me some pics of your issues and i will help the best i can with putting this babe back together
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I could, whoa i remember back when the super duties would cook the hides for as long as you stepped on it, had a 3 spd 73 firebird must have had 2.42's in it and it would blaze the tires for like 400 feet used to make laugh my a$$ off, sometimes like hada said, it is worth it if you can smile. send me some pics of your issues and i will help the best i can with putting this babe back together
Joe, I will keep you in mind for when I get stuck mechanically. Right now I am stuck body work wise. I feel I am the only one who can pull me out of this potential mess.
Right now work takes priority over the car. Hope to get back to the body in a coupla months. I will tinker with the engine as parts come back to me.
I think it is amazing that complete strangers would want to help me out. Too bad I had to rent out my personal jet or I would fly ya in! ;D
I forgot to add:
I had the manual tranny rebuilt. I did not want to take the chance of something happening down the road. Also since I am going to have considerable more horsepower, the clutch will be replaced. With what I don't know yet. I already had the flywheel resurfaced. Its slowly getting there. I just need a BFF bodyman! :)
Maybe I need to have a chat with Chip Foose. Wouldn't that be tits, to have my TA done in a week? Dream on dreamer...
Thanks all!
Stan
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chip foose!! yes that would be bad a$$
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I have since acquired Stan's 76 and am continuing progress...
I stored my '00 WS6 at a friends to allow me to get to work.
I am working toward getting the car in paint hopefully within 2 months.
I have finished the rotisserie and have got the car up on it.
My to do list is:
-Finish the front bumper
-Acquire a header panel, rear bumper, and passenger fender, or repair the current pass fender, fill, sand, prep all of these.
-Fill + Sand rear deck lid
-Fix the roof - Greenhouse fell on it. Already pulled one of the large dents.
-Finish blasting the underside and painting the correct color.
-Sand down spoilers
-Epoxy prime everything in black, fill missed mistakes, 2k, etc.
I'm hoping my college budget allows me to progress at the rate I would like to. Body work certainly takes time. I've already spent roughly 7-10 hours on the front bumper, and Stan already had it stripped down.
(http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll281/shank0668/image3_1_zpsmo5fskib.jpg) (http://s291.photobucket.com/user/shank0668/media/image3_1_zpsmo5fskib.jpg.html)
(http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll281/shank0668/image1_1_zpszffskelm.jpg) (http://s291.photobucket.com/user/shank0668/media/image1_1_zpszffskelm.jpg.html)
(http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll281/shank0668/image2_1_zps9fzhkcff.jpg) (http://s291.photobucket.com/user/shank0668/media/image2_1_zps9fzhkcff.jpg.html)