Topic: '78 Formula Restoration

[Coach Mike]

Thanks so much for all the input guys!  I respect all those who suggest dumping the 305 for a 350, but at least for now I'll stick with the 305.  I've owned this car since new and there is a lot that went into that decision. Since I plan to keep it forever anyway, I can change my mind later, but for now the decision, right or wrong, is what it is. There is so much information out there and this is my first experience with a project of this sort.  Very consuming to say the least, but I'm learning a lot from all of you and having fun doing it.

I'll keep posting progress here and hopefully someday mine will live up to sit with some of the absolute gems I've seen on the site and at some of the shows I've gone to recently.

Regards,

Mike

[Coach Mike]

After taking cylinder measurements on the block, it looks like the 305 will need some machining which would lead to more new parts than I was hoping to end up doing.  Finally made the decision to go with a new 350 Crate engine from Jegs - they have a special going on right now too so I saved a few more bucks with the timing.  It should be here next week so I'm excited about that.  Appreciate all the supporting comments and I'll continue to post progress as it moves along.

Mike

[Wallington]

Shame it needed extra work, but may be blessing in disguise with result even though always nice to spend less than you have to! A coat of paint and some detailed accessories replaced and your engine bay will be a big feature once more

[4speed76]

Too bad about the motor, just make sure you tuck it away in a safe place and keep all of the matching parts just in case you want to put it back to stock in the future.  Enjoy your new motor, it should be a lot of fun.

[Coach Mike]

Well here's an update with pics.  This is really become addicting  Since the engine is out and I have space, I'm changing out the front suspension and cleaning things up before the new engine goes in.




New crate 350 from Jegs

Started with Corporate blue paint

Had to preview it a little

Going with an Edelbrock Performer Intake, Holley Avenger 670 Carb, and still undecided on what headers will match up with the MagnaFlow Cat-back exhaust system that I already put in.
More to follow as it keeps moving ...

[Wallington]

That's better, some fresh colour, will look a lot better than just black when done.

Looks like you already had the specially adjustable coils that go from stock height to lowered in one go, I'd paint them before refitting though!

[Coach Mike]

Yep, I found that both sides had the same break at the bottom ring so I bought new ones - Moog 5006.  I'll cut one ring off and repaint them. I also ordered new stainless lines for the brakes, fuel, and trans cooling from Classic Tube.  Sat next to Lauren Fix (The Car Coach) on a recent flight and she owns the company. She spotted my Haynes manual and we started talking cars.  Very knowledgeable and nice lady.

[4speed76]

Nice to see some progress Mike.

[Coach Mike]

Been a while, but here are some updated pics of progress over the last month.  I'm looking to get some headers soon, but will add them after the new engine has been broken in to prevent damage to the finish (according to Hooker). Still also need to clean up and paint some of the bolt ons - water pump, power steering pump, etc ...





















The hockey stick shaft under the car works great for a leverage bar on lots of things and it is easy to reach for 

[Coach Mike]

By the way, that old thermostat housing is not staying there

[89flyboy]

She is coming along great Mike, keep up the great work.

[Coach Mike]

It has been a long time since updated pics and a lot has been done.  The engine is in and runs really nice.  I also have been getting the body work going for it to be restored keeping original colors.  More will follow as it keeps moving along: