Hitman's Pontiac Trans Am Forum
Trans Am Photos => Restoration Projects => Topic started by: N PRGRES on June 20, 2008, 06:31:09 AM
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Well this is my childhood dream car. It all started a "few" years back when I was 11 years old. My step father at the time worked at a small Pontiac dealer in Fostoria Ohio. I would go in with him on Saturdays and help the owners son detail cars. One Sat we went in and the new TATA was just being unloaded off the truck. I was instantly in love and since then have wanted one. I almost bought one years ago but the owner didn't have the title and now on my 40th B Day I was able to find one on eBay and get it purchased. It has yet to be delived and better photos will be posted when she arrives. Here is the start of the journey!!
http://www.flickr.com/photos/29193772@N07/sets/72157606518788985/ (http://www.flickr.com/photos/29193772@N07/sets/72157606518788985/)
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Dave ... congrats on your purchase! They are unique and still get looks. Post some more shots when you get 'er home along with the restoration.
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Congrats on the catch! Keep us posted when you get it! :) :)
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Yes you all know the disease I have now. It's called pre planning, car arriving, pre project disease. It's where all those ideas on what you want to do run through your mind! I have some questions I want some advice on.
This is a numbers matching car, so I want to keep it as "stock" as possible. The goal is to increase the performance, have the ability to return it to 100% stock if needed, yet have it look completely stock. Did that make sense?
1. The Olds 403 I believe put out around 220 hp stock. I would like to increase this some without getting too radical and once again, having the ability to return it pretty close to stock. I am thinking a mild car, punching it out some, carb, intake, and such. I don't want it all ratty sounding but want there to be something more than the anemic 220 hp.
2. I am planning on better shocks, springs (I am sure it needs new ones anyway) a mild drop and bigger sway bars.
3. This is where I am a bit torn. I REALLY dislike the "turbo" wheels. I plan to polish then, and put them into storage, once again in case I need them. I am thinking the 15x8 WS6 snowflakes in dark grey and polished to match the dark grey accents. I am also thinking 18" year one wheels. This is going to be a tough decision.
I am guessing however that these "mods" would not give it the ability to be shown in a stock class but maybe I am wrong. I really don't care much since I am building it for my enjoyment, however I definatly do not want to ruin a classic car. Thanks!
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Sorry to be the bearer of bad news :-\ but...the 403 had 185Hp.
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Even more reason to bump it up!
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Congrats to you, Dave! Good luck with your project :)
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A little TLC and she'll be good as new!! Nice catch!
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Unfortunatly a "little TLC" usually involves a "lot of cash" lol.
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looks like a good project nice to see another TATA saved,keep us posted on your new project.
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Unfortunatly a "little TLC" usually involves a "lot of cash" lol.
I know the feeling. My '80 has been a six year project so far. Slow and steady.
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I hope mine doesn't take that long but if thats what it takes to get it right then so be it!
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Unfortunatly a "little TLC" usually involves a "lot of cash" lol.
So true.
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I am trying to decide something and need some advice.
I plan to drive my TA quite a bit after I get it rebuilt. I am trying to deiced if I should replace the original motor. I would then rebuild the original and store it in case I needed it for sale purposes. This way I keep the miles off and don't risk hurting it. I can then mod the replacement engine. Thoughts?
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FWIW, numbers matching cars are worth more than non-numbers matching cars. It's only original when the original stuff is still around to be in it. My car is pretty "stock" -- no real interior mods, no real exterior mods -- but it's not "numbers matching" because the factory 400 block blew up. I had simply twisted its tail one time too many and a part failed. If you don't worry about what it's going to be worth when you sell it, then just drive it and don't think about it. If, on the other hand, you are concerned enough with future value enough that you're willing to pop for another engine AND keep the one you have stored properly -- then by all means get another engine built the way you want it and swap them. In the end it boils down to those two choices. ;)
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dont feel ba look at my 1980 pace car and then you will see a PROJECT
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Rick,
Thanks for the advice but I am not sure I am getting your point. It would still be a numbers matching car and if I sold it, all the stock items would be installed. Honestly though value is a small concern, I am buying it more because I want to enjoy my dream car. Thanks!
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My point is keeping a numbers matching car means putting considerable work into doing what you are proposing. A lot of people who want to modify their rides decide it's not worth that effort, and that's OK. It's not the end of the world if you want to transform your car into your dream -- "numbers matching" is a recent rage, and unless you ARE dedicated to keeping it where it can be returned to "numbers matching" then it might well not be worth it to you. That's not trying to discourage what you're describing at all -- just pointing out that a lot of people don't worry about it. In either case having a car you enjoy beats not having a car you enjoy. Happy motoring!
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Ok cool, well I am dedicated to keeping it with the ability to e returned to stock if I ever decide to go that route.
**UPDATE** Just got the call from the car carrier, she is on her way and should be at my house around 8pm! Pictures to follow!
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Whooo hoooo!! Take pics of her arriving and post up Dave. I'll talk with the wife about coming up for a visit to her step-moms and making a side trip to come see your ride. Pretty exciting!!
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Sounds great Rich! 3 hours to go!
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cant wait to see pics.
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Well here she is....I got some work to do!
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/TransAmArrival002.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/TransAmArrival006.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/TransAmArrival008.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/TransAmArrival009.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/TransAmArrival011.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/TransAmArrival017.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/TransAmArrival018.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/TransAmArrival020.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/TransAmArrival022.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/TransAmArrival025.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/TransAmArrival040.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/TransAmArrival042.jpg)
So it has almost no brakes, no power steering and has some stout gears in it. I was standing on the brakes to keep it stopped and it was just spinning the rears digging into my driveway!
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I bet you're glad it's finally there! Are those gen 3 front seats? ??? ???
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They are, want em? ;D Good thing is they are comfy! I am glad it's here I need to get it to the storage area since it might be a bit before I get too involved. I will probably get the interior out and start painting that and storing the parts away while I save for engine work.
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Looks like you have some work ahead of you but I'm sure you're glad it's "home" ;D
That's funny....mine came with odd/incorrect front buckets, too :D :D
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Well I am going to rip into it this weekend and see what I have. Looking it over, it's not in horrible shape but does need a little TLC. Ok, it needs alot of TLC. A friend of mine noticed the plate that came with the car is CPR and said yup thats what this car needs!
On sat I am pulling the interior out and going to start documenting whats there and what isn't. I need to get started on the floor panels and save the good ones I do have. Looks like I will need to replace the floor panels under the rear seats, do they make this aftermarket?
I plan to also get the brakes working so I can at least stop it. Right now the pedal goes right to the floor so I am hoping it just needs bled.
LOL I was just looking through my photos and looked through those HUGE speaker holes and saw that my other door panel is in the trunk! I haven't had that open yet since it was dark when I got the car.
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Congrats Dave, glad she finally is home! She's definitely a good project, glad to see another bird getting the care she needs.
by the way, you should change your avatar from "She will be here next week!" to "Working my 10th Anniversary Project" ;)
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Oh shoot good call! I forgot about that. I will be going through this weekend and doing a good inventory on what nees to be done and what parts I need which will be fun!
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Looks like I will need to replace the floor panels under the rear seats, do they make this aftermarket?
No, that panel isn't repro'd...you'd need to get a piece from a donor car of patch it with fresh metal.
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Amazing the 79 is the most numerous TA built and yet has the least amount of repro'ed items
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It's not a strike against the '79 model, the under-seat pan isn't repro'd for any year.
You'll find there are a ton of used parts on the market for '79 simply because it was such a high production year.
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Ok yeah I figured I would get one out of a yard, just makes things a bit more difficult
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Well got quite a bit done today. Got the power steering working what was just out of fluid, and the brakes bled and working again. They are not perfect but good enough to get the car stopped and moved around. Also put air in all the tires.
Then tore out the interior and inventoried the parts. Now I can see what I do and don't need. Here are some pics:
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/InteriorTearDown005.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/InteriorTearDown017.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/InteriorTearDown001.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/InteriorTearDown005.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/InteriorTearDown016.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/InteriorTearDown015.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/InteriorTearDown018.jpg)
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I did the same thing today, removed all the plastic/vinyl material in the rear, and along the door frame etc. The pillars and most all the plastic/vinyl moldings along the headliner and rear seats I removed. I am making a video of what I am doing, and will post it maybe tomorrow. I plan to remove my rear seats tomorrow too. Good Job man, seems we got a lot in common at the moment, a garage floor full of upholstery items and molding metal. Nice work, should become a good looking car.
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Sad thing is looks like most of this is going to be trash. From what I can see the back window was busted out at some time and detroyed 90% of all the interior is destroyed and needs to be replaced. =(
The motor seems to run strong. It has a bad knock that seems to be coming from under the right hand valve cover, so I am going to pull that and see what I can find. The good part is the motor is dry and seems to have little or no leaks.
IF I can find the source of the knock and it is a fairly easy fix, I might leave the motor alone for the most part, other than a compression test and see where I stand. If it is strong, there is no need to tear into it. I'll still clean things up and replace hoses and belts but thats all.
So I will keep you upto date on what I find.
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Well you can check Sherman parts for your floor pans...
(http://store.shermanparts.com/images/skus/697-46CFR.jpg)
Part number 697-46CFR 259.00
It DOES include the pan under the rear seats. I know...I bought a set for my car. IF you can find someone who's a dealer you should be able to get a discount. The car club I belong to took my total cost down into the $300 range for both sides including shipping. If you were in NY I'd offer to get them ordered for ya but I think shipping would eat up any savings I could try to pass along.
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For 300 bucks I would drive up and get them! Let me sort things out and I will let you know.
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PM me when you're ready to order and I'll make sure I get you an accurate quote. I bought mine about 2 yrs ago but the price hasn't changed from what I remember.
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Will do. Are yours the made in USA ones or the made in taiwan ones? I notice the imports are about 89 bucks each.
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I remember a sticker stating Made in USA... Here's a link to their product catalog:
http://store.shermanparts.com/cgi-bin/sherman/product_list.html?img_num=832_833
I only purchased their full length floor pans though...rest of the sheetmetal was either hand made by the 1st resto shop OR I bought a rear quarter panel skin through Classic Industries as they had a deal on shipping at the time.
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Awesome thanks. I am actually have a place in NY to store them until I get up there to get them but would be curious on shipping since VA isn't all too far away.
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Well as I work on the car I find an interesting change taking place. My goal when I bought it was to make it like new. Now though I find that although I want it to look good and it will have alot of new parts, I want to keep more of the things that came with the car.
I guess I know this car has not had an easy life and part of me wants to keep some of that past alive in the restored car.
One thing I am thinking of and the purists are going to want to kill me, but I am thinking of putting the 77-78 front nose on it. Now the paint scheme will stay the same, and the stock 79 nose will also be painted and ready to install if and when I want to return it to stock, but I always liked that front end better. Ok you all can flame me know. ;D It's just a thought.
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I personally don't like the nose on the 79-81 cars but that's just me so I'd say go for it! Especially since you're holding onto the original nose.
IF you do the swap you'll need a bunch of brackets, the 77/78 bumper beam, and you'll need to adjust your wiring harness as the lights may be in different locations and/or have different connectors. Good luck with the swap...I'm considering doing just that with the 80 firebird I have.
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Dave -- the only cautionary note I'd sound is this: Even though you intend to have the original nose ready to go back on, when time comes to sell it will you be wanting to go ahead and put it back on before you offer it for sale, or will you take the hit financially because it's non-stock?
Non-stock cars are fine -- as long as they are yours. But when it comes time to sell invariably modifications away from stock tend to decrease resale value. That's because one man's dream may well be the next man's nightmare. That's just the way it's panned out after watching these sales of modified cars for years and years. No matter the quality of the work and the price of the parts, it seems that in 95% of cases modifications hurt resale value.
Yeah, you've got the original parts to put back on, but it's not a real easy swap. There's some work involved -- nothing impossible, but still some work. If/when the time comes that you decide to part ways with the car, you'll either have to put work into a project you don't want anymore (which is why you'll be selling it) or willing to take the hit because the nose doesn't match the year or the tail end. That means choosing between two ways to go, neither of which may sound all that attractive at the time when you just want the car gone.
That's my only caution -- otherwise, it's your car to fix as you see fit and enjoy as you like! ;)
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10Anniv ... let me flame you now ... only because you invited it.
NO. NO. NO. It's a bad thought. Don't put the batmobile front end on the more visually appealing `79 front end. I personally think the '77/'78 front ends are all too common. But that's just me.
The TATA needs a `79 front end. My .02
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Actually I am going to go ahead and repaint it black also....
JOKING! Thanks for the advice, just a random thought and I have plenty of time to decide. Right now it has the stealth front end as I took it off today. Looks like I need some radiator supports but other than that down't look too bad.
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LOL ... someone actually did that - Ebay car that was a TATA cloned to a 77SE. I'm not kidding.
Why? I guess there wasn't a better donor to make the SE clone other than the TATA, go figure.
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Probably a 400/4speed to!
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i think a TATA with a 77/78 nose might just what this world needs!
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Well it would be different!! Well as I said it is just an idea, a random thought.....
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i think a TATA with a 77/78 nose might just what this world needs!
:o Noooooooo..... :-X
Hush your mouth Steve :D :D(j/k)
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Sorry to be the bearer of bad news :-\ but...the 403 had 185Hp.
a few mods and it would make 220 easy...not very better, but mine makes more than that now...I have yet to dyno it so I have no idea of actual horse/tourque, but it isn't stock
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oh shush jeff. haha
I just think of it like this.
How many TATA's have the 79 nose. well prolly all of them.
since that's what they're suppose to and everyone is prolly like.. oh no don't touch it.
besides the fact that its a swap on the nose and some don't really like that, its an anniversary edition!!!
I think it'd add a lil touch of uniqueness to the ol bird.
Granted.. turning around and wanting to sell it to someone, they may or may not like it...
But if the owner likes it, that's all the matters right? :)
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But if the owner likes it, that's all the matters right? :)
In the end, that's all that counts. ;)
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Well I have plenty of time to decide, besides right now with this ol girl I have bigger fish to fry lol
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Well am slowly getting some work done, Got the tail lights painted but need to do some clean up since the primer leaked on the lens. Anyone know something good to get that off??
Now working on the headlights. Seems I am starting at the front and moving back. I am awating the paint from Eastwood for the headlight buckets and will paint the bracing the OEM silver after it is sanded and primed.
I am finding it really need to get the old parts cleaned and re used as opposed to just buying new.
Here are some pics:
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Frontendteardown001.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Frontendteardown010.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Headlights001.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Headlights003.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Headlights004.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/TailLights006.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/TailLights003.jpg)
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Try some thinner on a q-tip. Damp, not soaking wet as it may eat through the plastic if you get too much on it. Wash it with copious amounts of water afterwards to stop any reaction that may be occuring. Another option is the thinner used for painting RC cars - think its by Testors now. That won't react with the plastic and will get most paints off. I've used it successfully before. Last option would be some fine rubbing compound and some elbow grease.
Good luck!
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So snadblasting is out??? =)
I was thinking of the testors Stuff. I might go with that first
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How does acetone react with the plastic? I ask because that's what's recommended for removing paint from plastic eyeglass lenses, which are polycarbonate. Fingernail polish remover is the easiest way to get a small quantity of that -- every grocery store and pharmacy will have it. :-\
As Brian says, whatever you use, TRY it first in an area that's not readily visible! ;)
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So snadblasting is out??? =)
I was thinking of the testors Stuff. I might go with that first
Actually if you're good with a single edged razor blade you could probably scrape the paint off but you run the risk of putting gouges into the plastic lens if you're overzealous. IF you haven't worked with a razor blade before on car or model parts then I suggest you stay away from this option as you'll do more harm than good.
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Maybe I will try it on a light that I can replace easily LOL
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I did get some off with a razor blade wrapped in a towel that took the real sharp edge off but think I left a little scratch in it so I stopped
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Yep. It takes a lot of practice to use a razor blade to scrape paint off. I'm not being sarcastic here, really. I have lots of modeling experience behind me so its second nature for me to do this. Mostly model trains - HO Scale, published a few times too.
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Awesome!
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Try oven cleaner to remove paint from plastic, I tried it on my tailights and it worked but I didn't let it penetrate enough time so only the weakest layer has gone. If it's been sanded and primed before it's gonna be tough, and brian's method would be better.
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HELLO 10ANIV I JUST BOUGHT THE SAME CAR WITH MORE IN NEED OF REBUILDING.I HAVE GOOD LEAD 'S ON PARTS NEW OR USED, EMAIL SO I CAN SPEAK MORE THANK'S (TRUCKER123 )
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I need to post some more pics on the header panel I have done. I want to wait and get the headlights mounted to it first though. I did judt get a good used dome light assembly for 10 bucks on ebay so that was good as mine was pitted and the little map lights were missing the lenses. Now I hope to have the bezel screws and new bezels this week.
The headlights are going to be HID units which I know is not true to form but at least I did decide to keep the 79 front end on it ;D
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Overall this last week was a busy one for the TATA. I found a new interior dome light on ebay for 10 bucks. Luckily the one from the Caprice fits the TA. Also have my rear spoiler parts on the way and the bezels and Torx screws. I got the seat belts removed and they look in good shape but in need of a good cleaning. I also picked up a new rear wondow from FB Rider here on the site! Thanks again!
Well today I did some work on my doors and cleaned up my T Tops to see how they looked. I am trying a new function so let me know if these links work!
Doors:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/29193772@N07/sets/72157606518646257/
T Tops:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/29193772@N07/sets/72157606515263828/
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Well I just bought some seats off of 79TArdy on here. They are Red Bird seats but in great shape and look like will do well recovered with the Silver TATA leather. I'll post some photos when they arrive!
I tried to save the stock seats but they were too rusty and gone to save
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Right now while keeping costs down I am just doing some odds and ends. This weekend I took the window trim that was laying in the car when I got it and cleaned and painted it. Let me say that painting window trim...sucks! The rear window I took the side pieces off only to realize that the genious who installed the rear window never sealed it, I guess the moulding is holding it in, so I got the two side pieces painted but I am going to reinstall them for now. The joys of restoration
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Here was a project for the day, removing all the glue and insulation from the interior and sanding and priming it. Got one side done, unfortunatly time and daylight limited my progress, so I hope to get the rest done this weekend.
(http://thumb6.webshots.net/t/60/760/7/49/19/2886749190103840886pXfcmN_th.jpg) (http://good-times.webshots.com/album/565982124iQBQFs)
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Got one side done, unfortunatly time and daylight limited my progress, so I hope to get the rest done this weekend.
What? You're too cheap to turn on the lights? ??? ???
Looking good! :) ;)
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Well Lights are no problem but since it's outside the skeeters would carry me away! These things are mutants down here!
She is getting there slowly lol
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Ah yes -- you live in the south! Down there the only things that kill bugs are old age or bigger bugs! :o :D :D
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LOL yeah they are pretty bad down here, although it looks like I am moving a bit north soon.
More updates to the rear seat area of the TATA. I thought I was going to be able to save the right rear seat pan but after I got the rust out, no such luck!
(http://thumb6.webshots.net/t/60/760/7/49/19/2886749190103840886pXfcmN_th.jpg) (http://good-times.webshots.com/album/565982124iQBQFs)
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Well I was finally able to get the TATA in the garage and since she is now covered the real work can begin. I got the front end off and now can get the motor out and rebuilt.
I am looking forward to getting into the engine, it has to have some work done to it since it just seems more powerful than stock.
So next up are engine out, subframe cleaned and painted, and suspension work. Here are some pics! and yes I had the valve cover off looking at some things.....
http://community.webshots.com/album/565035030UGHfBL?vhost=community
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Well not much has happened to the TATA lately. Well thats all changing. I am working on getting TATA specific stuff first, I know it's not quite ready but I want them on hand in case for some weird reason production stops as they become more rare.
Next weekend the motor is coming out. I have a guy here that does great work so the rebuild will begin. That will give me a chance to get started on the front end stuff, Frame, brakes, etc. So looks like I will be busy!
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Yeah, I've been stalled on mine for any number of reasons -- stuff just keeps crawling out of the woodwork... :-\
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Yes I know, same here not to mention my garage isn't heated....yet
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Looking good Keep going on it. Keep those pics coming.
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Will do!
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Hey everyone, well since my last post the project had stalled again, I think RIck said it best on stuff crawling out of the wood work. Plus now the G8 has taken over the one car garage here at the house so the TATA had to be moved to new digs. Additionally in these weird tried to not blow all my cash. So it looks like thigns at work are solid so I am trying to get back to it. For the winter as I mentioned before, I plan to get the TATA specific parts (I just ordered the rear package tray) then get the regular TA parts.
So I hope to have more updates later. Here are some pics of her move, not much fun but everyone likes to look at pics!
http://s131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/The%20Move/
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Well, I am in parts collection mode, As I mentioned earlier I am trying to get some of the TATA specific parts bought so I got the rear package shelf (F Body Warehouse) and carpet (Hitman) on order. Also found some nice sail panels on eBay for cheap so those are on the way. Slowly piece by piece......
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Hope you keep steady on the parts chase.
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Hope you keep steady on the parts chase.
Yeah I hope so to. I hope to get the concrete pad for my garage poured this spring and get her back to my place so it will be easier to work on it.
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Not a ton of progress as of yet. Between restoring the house and my rolling F-150 resto alot of competition for cash =) I am going to go look at 2 parts cars today so possibly I will then have all the body parts I need and get that done over the summer. I need to get my butt in gear!
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Sounds familiar. I was just commenting to my dad that I'll need his help this summer pulling the front fenders off the 80 firebird, stripping them and setting them in epoxy primer. Yep I'm going to get rolling on that project a bit too :)
Good luck with your collection Dave!!
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Did a bunch of glass bead blasting and painting today, lots of the little parts that were pretty rusty. Blasting is the only way to go , wow what a difference! Pics will follow in a bit
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Here are some pics:
I still need to get the black paint to finish them off.
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Misc003.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Misc005.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Misc011-1.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Misc014.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Misc009.jpg)
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More work. I forgot to take some pictures after it was blasted.....
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Misc018.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Misc019.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Misc020.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Misc021.jpg)
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And so it finally begins full swing!
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/25235_1432907100595_1170437760_1253.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/25235_1432906060569_1170437760_1253.jpg)
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Looking good. Things are starting to move along. Keep up the good work!
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Thanks Sooner, I hope to have motor out By the end of May. Damn work keeps getting in the way!
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Damn work keeps getting in the way!
I know how you feel. That is why my project is going soooo slow.
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Yeah I have started and stopped this project so many times I lost count. This time I am moving on it no matter what!
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Some more progress
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Misc022.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Misc023.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Misc025.jpg)
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The hinges are Eastwood Chassis Black and the top of the inner fender is Underhood black
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looking great
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I hope to get to work on pulling the motor this weekend
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Well a friend of mine went to look at the "parts" car I am looking at. I have been working and have not been able to get out there. It's a TATA 400/4 speed. My friend has the motor so thats easy to get. The guy has no interest in it and wants to get rid of it. So the price is supposed to be cheap, he doesn't care it's a TATA, and sold the motor (to my friend) and sold the interior out of it. The body is supposed to be solid so we will see. So on Sat I could own a 400 and a 403 TATA.
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Looking Great! Keep up the good work!
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I really like the underhood black
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Well the guy with the parts car now wants to play games, another guy all of a sudden is interested in it, I was like whatever dude, when you're serious call me, I got no time to play games. So we will see where that goes. Mean time work on my TATA continues
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So I am thinking out loud here, I wonder how instead of the charcol accents it was a carbon fiber look.....hmmmmmm
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have someone do a rendering for you to get a good idea worth a shot
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Oh I never thought of that Rick, I was also going to buy some of the tape and stick it to my old paint job to get an idea
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that could work too i suppose then you see it in person
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So I made some progress today. Finally got over to get the motor ready to pull. Here are some pics:
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Misc045.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Misc073.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Misc074.jpg)
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Dave your cruising right along I see...Nice work bud
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Thanks Charlie,
Yeah since that photo was taken I have gotten the brakes off and down to the spindles. Hope to have the garage cleaned out enough to get the motor out soon.
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eww that thing is diiiiirty. i'll mail you a scrub brush to detail it under there....
seriously your progress is great.. i need to wrap up the 77 for the season (until fall) and get working on my 71
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Thats what ahppens when it sits in a field for 12 years! You should see all the wasps nests!
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oh yeah i was there with the 77 it sat in the woods from 1982 until nov 2008 when i started talking about buying it. then he drug it out of the woods and put it in his pole barn which btw was empty. when the car warmed up we had a lot of bee's to kill.
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LOL luckily mine are minus the bees!!!!
It's coming along, it's nice to be making progress on it again
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yeah i got stung a few times or bitten i should say. good thing it was in his pole barn first lol
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More Pics
http://s131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/
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Can't view pix...your album is password protected.
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you can copy and paste links to show your image directly
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I'll fix the link. There are 48 pictures in there, not going to post them all! =)
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Thanks Hammer! Comeing from you that means alot. I know ya have a thing for interiors so I have a really neat one planned, I think you'll like it!
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More pics to follow, I just got my computer back after it broke on Thursday night. Got all the control arms off and tie rods and such. Motor is ready to come out other than sawing off the old exhaust that is rusted soild to the manifolds.
Hope to blast all the control arms and paint this weekend and buy all the new bushings and such. As well as have the motor out and frame ready to come off. Lots of progress!
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cool...you know the drill...keep us posted
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Here are some pics:
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/Misc011-3.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/Misc012-2.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/Misc013-2.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/Misc014-2.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/Misc015-2.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/Misc016-1.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/Misc017-1.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/Misc018-1.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/Misc019-1.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/Misc020-1.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/Misc021-1.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/Misc022-1.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/Misc023-1.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/Misc024-1.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/Misc001-2.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/Misc002-2.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/Misc005-2.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/Misc006-2.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/Misc007-2.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/Misc008-2.jpg)
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Looking good ! I was at that stage last year. Putting the front springs back in was fun. I had to borrow a spring compresor to get the job done. I like to save pictures I find on the forums for refrence and Ideas here is one I found I think you will like.
(http://i859.photobucket.com/albums/ab154/jjplumber/MyCar.jpg)
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Nice job Dave ... it is coming along
Martin 79 - looks like you've been down this road already. One post and you're avatar shows you've turned a wrench or two on yours. I the 17" wheels on your TATA as well. Throw us some more pix and your story on a separate thread when you've time.
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Thanks Guys! I just ordered the solid body bushings and lower control arm bushings from Pro Touring F Body. I hope to get thier tubular upper control arms also, although he has a 3 week backlog on those at the moment. Getting the old bushings removed and the control arms blasted and painted this weekend.
Lots of activity in a short amount of time. Feels good to work on it.
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What's the small box around the choke tubes?
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Misc073.jpg)
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Beats me!!
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No wait, it's not even the standard #16 intake manifold for 403. Does it have a casting number on it, perhaps off an earlier model if heads have been swapped also. The runners are opposite to the usual, well, that I'm familiar with!
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I can get the numbers, it has casting numbers on it.
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Anyone have any ideas?
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I threw your pic on an Olds forum for quick response!
Might help to check the casting number on the inlet and also what the heads are, large casting number on left of each.
cheers
"That's a divorced style choke which is pre-1970 and since I don't see a EGR valve on the driver's side I'm going to say it's definitely a pre-70 intake. What's the casting number on it?"
"That's a 68-9 intake
Divorced choke says pre-70
Two 3/4NPT coolant temp switch fittings says >1967
That leaves the 1968-9 398663 aka #9 casting"
"best ck the heads, the block ID, and all the other numbers. Not a bad intake, though an electric choke might be a better operational choice."
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The motor runs like it has had some work but I will check and see for sure whats going on! ???
Thanks!
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And that photo also shows a W exhaust manifold off early big block. Don't fit headers and then throw it/them out, worth a bit to early guys!
I't wouldn't hurt to check some of the engine block casting numbers in front of the oil filler spout or the ID on the drivers side behind exhaust manifold to check it is a 403 as a few details point to a 455 instead, you can see it has been painted lighter blue after fitting. There's also that timing tag...
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Aus. I looked this last weekend I can't find any numbers on the block on the front of the engine block, so I was going to wait to pull it and see if I could find some then. 455....hmmmm I'll be happy to have the bigger motor but bummed that it's not numbers matching like I originally thought.
Either way I know work has been done to it since when it is running it's not a stock idle.
So my question is what code am I exactly looking for to verify what it is? And what is the difference in an Olds 455 as sopposed to a Pontiac 455?
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It's a tricky one. A few extra cubes and possibly an earlier performance core but in a collectable car where originality is what scores the points and values. Bit like changing the nose, it's your car so if you're happy with it its great, but come time to part with it, perhaps not so.
If you can't see the cast on displacement then its a sign its probably not a 403 and a much earlier engine, these didn't appear until '77 on block sides so should be on a '79 engine.
On the front of the engine block where the oil filler spout goes should be a casting number, 557265 and 4B for 403. Also measure the base of the inlet manifold, 12" for small block, 14" for big block.
Some useful info here too including other casting ID's:
http://www.442.com/oldsfaq/ofblk.htm
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Thanks ill look tonight
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I have a number just to the drivers side of the oil fill spout that says 396021F that's the only number up there. Then on the heads I have a E 403 686. By the distributo is a 103. I can't see anything on the drivers side of the block
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No sure where to measure I can get 12 and 14
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E Heads '68 - '70 455 77,80 403686 455's in general, with 442/Toro's
having big valves.
F block '68 - '70 455 396021 Common big block. Stick type F (sans serif).
F block '70 - '72 455 396021 Common big block. Serif type F. Two vertical and a base serif.
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Wow so it looks like thats a 455 in there?!
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A) Congratulations
or
B) Sorry about that
Take your pick ;) :D
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Well I think A is more in tune, now I don't feel the pressure to go 100% stock plus I got it for so cheap it's not a huge deal that it's not numbers matching
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So this throws a wrench in things. Since it's no longer numbers matching the value is pretty much gone. So now do I keep it a TATA or go a different direction???
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Opinions may vary but even if the numbers matching engine is gone, I'd still consider it a TATA
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Yeah I know thats one of my struggles although even if I keep it a TATA it won't be close to stock
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Well I did also drop off the control arms today to get the bearings removed. I hope to get them blasted this weekend!
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Looking good ! I was at that stage last year. Putting the front springs back in was fun. I had to borrow a spring compresor to get the job done. I like to save pictures I find on the forums for refrence and Ideas here is one I found I think you will like.
(http://i859.photobucket.com/albums/ab154/jjplumber/MyCar.jpg)
I Really like the paint on your car!! It gives your Tenth a subtle Resto-mod look 8) 8) 8) .....Here's my Tenth.
[attachment deleted by admin over 90 days old]
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I say still go the restoration as planned....but with a beefy 455 disguised as stock 403 under the hood with factory brackets and Corporate Blue paint!
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I say still go the restoration as planned....but with a beefy 455 disguised as stock 403 under the hood with factory brackets and Corporate Blue paint!
I really am debating alot of this. The value of the car is really gone. I was watching on Mecham Auto Auctions the other weekend and they had two 70 Chevelles. One was numbers matching and one was not but was year correct. Both gorgeous cars and the year correct one was actually nicer looking. It sold for less than half of what the numbers matching one did. Nice car but it wasn't "correct" in thier eyes I guess.
So really whats the point of keeping it a TATA other than the VIN code. I did get ahold of the previous owner who knows they guy who did the engine swap. I was thinking maybe I could find the 403 but it is gone, blown up years ago at a drag race. So thats not an option. So my options now are:
A) Keep it a TATA and use the 455 instead of the 403.
B) Find a year correct 403 and make it 100% stock
C) Keep it a TATA but "update" it much like Snap On Billy is doing
D) Say screw it, it really has little value as a TATA anyway now and make it like I want it.
C and D really are the options I am looking at, and leaning alot towards option D. If it was a numbers matching 403 or even a 400 I wouldn't even consider making drastic changes like paint and interior. Even if it was a stick with a year correct only 400 I would keep it stock, but really not sure what the value would do on a 403 car as opposed to a nice hot rod TA. And even so, when would that value match what I put into it. I expect at least 20K to be into this car by the time all is said and done, it will take years to recoup that cost...and is the value what I really am looking for?
So lots of questions in my head. If I did go with D of course I will retain what few TATA parts I even have, but really in the end the 403 cars are nothing more than a different paint scheme, a few options and different stickers.
Either way I think you all will be impressed with the end product. I have alot of time to decide as I am not even close to getting to paint yet.
Aus78Formula I do want to say thanks for the research!!!!!
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Not a problem, I was as interested in the outcome as you were although you would have found out somewhere along the line! It wasn't the best outcome even though the engine is often the more desireable choice in other situations!
Why not go with one of your original ideas seeing as originality has taken a back seat as such. Keep the 455, assuming its ok, already have it and registered with it, save some funds there. Perhaps use 77/78 nose if thats what you still prefer and for something different do an alternative TATA colour scheme such as same decals over different colour instead of silver?? Would be limited to white, black, gunmetal, maybe red, that work with the decal colours.
Dunno, also forget the whole TATA background, if you had a random '79 with or without early nose, what color would you go? Depends how much you wanted a TATA even with alternative power, plenty of time for ideas yet!
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Well IF I go the plan D route it would end up with the 78 nose but with the fog lights like the BR Bandit edition. I would love either the blue color that the 78's had or I am thinking a blood red with a painted silver/grey eagle and a grey interior. Just my initial ideas. Like you said I have a ton of time to figure all that out so we will see where it ends up.
If I did the tata I think a reverse grey/silver scheme might be cool or even silver/black. A metalic silver and grey would be a must.
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Well some pics of the suspension parts after blasting and now in primer....
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Suspension/Misc026-1.jpg)
Still need some minor cleaning up
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Suspension/Misc027.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Suspension/Misc028.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Suspension/Misc029.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Suspension/Misc030.jpg)
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Looks great...nice work!
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Looks great...nice work!
Thanks, I would like to send my thanks out to the previous owner for making this all possible, if it were not for his over use of spray on undercoating this would have been an easy job!!!! If I ever see him I am going to punch him in the junk!!!
The motor should be out today, more pics to follow.
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Thanks, I would like to send my thanks out to the previous owner for making this all possible, if it were not for his over use of spray on undercoating this would have been an easy job!!!! If I ever see him I am going to punch him in the junk!!!
This is funny!!!
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Motor is out and frame is off, here are the pics!!!!
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Engine/Misc039-1.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Engine/Misc045-1.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Engine/Misc034-1.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Engine/Misc036-1.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Engine/Misc037-1.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Engine/Misc062-1.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Engine/Misc063-1.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Engine/Misc059-1.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Engine/Misc060-1.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Engine/Misc046-1.jpg)
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Well things are continuing to go good. The frame goes off to the blaster on wed and Dick Miller is working up a parts list for the 455. Should be interesting to see how that goes. Hopefully the motor will be heading off for rebuild soon! Lower control arm busings and ball joints are ordered from Pro Touring F Body and should be here this week!
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Did you have any trouble getting a response from DM?
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Nope, actually he has been really good. Got the parts list today.
Got the frame on the trailer and off to the blasters in the morning!
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc.jpg)
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I never got a response, but that's nothing against him, it was the same result for most.
Frame looks tiny there! It's one of the things I wish I'd done, powdercoated the frame but with half the car in storage and the other at my parents I just didn't/don't have the room to pull it down any further!
Good to see you are going to stay with the 455, does it need a rebuild or just a freshen up?
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He charges for his technical opinion. It's only 20 bucks but as he says, he has alot of people call and get his advice then never buy a part from him, so I imagine that gets old. At least I know a starting point and he is a bit on the expensive side on his parts.
Mine is just getting painted, powder coating would be nice but I don't "need" that at the moment. I would rather spend the money on other parts.
The motor does need rebuilt. It has some sort of noise in the top end we can't find. I figure while it's out I may as well get it all done. It should look hot when it's done!
I have waited so long to get to this point it is weird it is actually happening, I can't wait to get to the firewall and get it painted but damn work keeps getting in the way!
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Generally powdercoating costs less than painting once you factor in stripping/sandblasting, priming and several top coats and gives a tougher finish.
Good luck with the build, It works both ways, I'm not about to send money to someone for advice when they dont reply!
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Generally powdercoating costs less than painting once you factor in stripping/sandblasting, priming and several top coats and gives a tougher finish.
Good luck with the build, It works both ways, I'm not about to send money to someone for advice when they dont reply!
Thats why I called and did it. Honestly was it anything super spepcial? Not really but since I don't know much about engines, for me it's a good reference and gives me an idea of what I would typically need to get to where I want the engine to go. Honestly I have had no issues with not hearing back from him. I think he did say he doesn't like Australians though =) haha
Yeah Powder coating is cheaper but I have a friend doing the blasting and painting for just the cost of materials, which turned out to be very cheap!
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Well the frame is at the sand blasters. I can't wait to see it done!
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Got to start work on the firewall this evening. Got the brake booster off and the AC cover. Now the fun of sanding and degreasing.
Ironically the firewall is in really good shape. Even found some production markings so that was kinda neat. I'll post pics tomm!
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Well got some work done on the firewall but ran out of time for the day:
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc066-1.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc067-1.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc068-1.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc069-1.jpg)
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Got the Spindles done, blasted and painted with Eastwoods "Detail Grey". Now they are off to Pro Touring F Body for mods to fit the new brakes.
Before:
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/Misc019-1.jpg)
After:
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/Misc070-1.jpg)
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More progress today. Had to stop as it is so humid the primer is taking awhile to dry. I have some minor touch up sanding to do then the black!
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc071-1.jpg)
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It's like Christmas today! Pro Touring F Body Solid Frame Bushings arrive and the paint for the frame!
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc073-1.jpg)
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Don't you just love Christmas in May! haha. Everything is looking great. Keep up all the good work!
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Don't you just love Christmas in May! haha. Everything is looking great. Keep up all the good work!
Thanks! It is so nice to be making progress!!!!
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Todays Projects:
I love blasting cabinets!! I got alot of the small brake brackets and such cleaned off and in primer. They are being painted now. I re plasted the lower control arms as I wasn't happy with how they were looking. AND I got the firewall done with the under hood black. Trying to decide on the lower part if it will be underhood black or chassis black.
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc075.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc076.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc077.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc078.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc079.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc080.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc081.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc082.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc083.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc085.jpg)
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You are getting a lot done, wow. Everything looks great. Looks like where I was over a month ago but you are catching up fast, haha. Great work!
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LOL thanks! Right now I am painting all the brackets of course they are getting either underhood black or chassis black depending on where they are installed on the car. I'll post pics soon!
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parts all painted. The Chassis black ones are still drying but here are the under hood ones plus the brake valve
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc087.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc086.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc088.jpg)
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NIce work!!!
Looks great!!!
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Thanks! Just talked to the frame guy, I'll have it back on Wed! It is getting painted tomm! Also got the AC Box in the mail today so I'll be painting that this week!
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Lookin good, that's one clean firewall!
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Yeah it didn't turn out too bad over all. This month progress will be a tad slower as it's more of getting the brake line clips all cleaned and painted and new brake lines installed, and hopefully the booster and master cylinder replaced.
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Ordered a new toy today, going to be alot of help in getting the small parts cleaned off!
http://www.eastwood.com/ew-all-purpose-wet-dry-tumbler-system-pushbutton.html
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Got the frame back today, turned out nice!
Before
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Engine/Misc061-1.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Engine/Misc062-1.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Engine/Misc060-1.jpg)
After
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc091.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc092.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc094.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc095.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc093.jpg)
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Looks great ... what'd that run you if you don't mind me asking.
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Thanks! A friend of mine did the frame, header panel and control arms, blasted and painted for 250
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That's a steal. I hope you bought him some beer...
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LOL Yes a 12 pack lol
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Wow, that looks great and you got one sweet deal! Keep up the great work!
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Thanks! I plan to finish the firewall tomm and hoipefully have it back on by Monday
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Worked on the Cowl area and painted it and decided since the frame was out to get the underside done up to where the frame bolts in. Here are some pics in no particular order lol
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc107-1.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc109.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc101.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc102.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc103.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc104.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc108.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc098.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc099.jpg)
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I really hate how this things cuts off the pictures!!!!!!
Ok here are some more. The new tumbler works great although I need a more aggressive media. This is the boring part of the rebuild but the devil is in the details! I am going to actually go with the blackening kit from Eastwoods to get the small hardware done, but here are some painted ones and the AC box. Also got all the new cowl seals on order today woo hoo!
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc114.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc113.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc111.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc112.jpg)
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Evaporator case turned out nice and clean. What's the dark grey colour (metallic too?), or just the primer and camera flash? I need to redo mine, I never added it to the firewall until complete and the grey was far too light and horrible!
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Thats the primer from when I got it. I bought it used off of here since mine was all busted up. I painted it the same color as the firewall, underhood black.
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Well the floorpan area under the frame is done and the frame is back on!!!!
Here ya go!
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc115.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc116.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc117.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc118.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc119.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc120.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc121.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc122.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc123.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc124.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc125.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc126.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc127.jpg)
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hot damn! that looks amazing. Nice work so far man.
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Thanks! It's coming together!
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That it is! Came out great. Whats the ETA until you can turn the key?
I'm contemplating doing my subframe and frame rails also..at 178,000+ and some wear and tear it might be worth it eventually.
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Turn the key or drive it? haha I am hoping to have it on the road for the first time since 1996 in Aug of 2011.
The subframe was actually pretty easy to remove and install, of course it is stripped also. It would probably do you a world of good to get rid of the stock rubber body mounts and go with the solid ones like I did. I am sure yours are about gone.
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thatd be impressive!! cant believe it hasnt been on the road since 96...you don't even wanna know how old I was then.
Ya, I'm sure they're pretty toast, I just don't have means to pull the subframe right now.
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Well you don't have to pull it to replace them, just do one at a time.
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Nice work! I'm doing some temp clean up on my TATA under the battery, and it ain't the sweetest, but+1 to one body mount at a time
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GUess I need to get that drive shaft off the floor and cleaned up!
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Working on some of the smaller stuff, not as sexy as the bigger ticket items but needed to be done.
Windshield Wiper Mechanism (Yes I know you will never see it)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc131.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc132.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc133.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc134.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc135.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc136.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc130.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc128.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc129.jpg)
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way to go! paint those bolts just i did! it looks killer when you're done. its worth the extra PITA factor ;)
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Great work!!! ;D
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way to go! paint those bolts just i did! it looks killer when you're done. its worth the extra PITA factor ;)
Actually I like it, it keeps me busy and is cheap! lol
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What are you doing with those? Rattle can primer, letting it dry, then painting it black? What stuff are ya using, all my bolts could use a nice freshening up like this.
Lookin great Dave
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I actually run each bolt through my tumbler to clean, then then rattle can primer and Eastwoods paint depending on the color.
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Some pics for your viewing pleasure
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc140.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc153.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc152.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc151.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc150.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc146.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc141.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc139.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc138.jpg)
Now Control Arms
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/Misc137.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/Misc145.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/Misc147.jpg)
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what is that coming out of the hole right above the fuse block? cruise control lines ?
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Yes those are the lines for the Cruise
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Wow...Everything is looking great! Keep up all the great work and thanks for the pictures.
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Thanks! Slow and steady!
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Well after much research it looks like my motor is originally out of a Olds Delta 88 or 98. Should be around 360 hp, give or take. The motor is a 68 but the heads are 1970. I am thinking I will just replace them when I do the rebuild. Olds RWD motors in 1968 were red in color originally so I am thinking mine will be the same. No reason to hide what it really is.
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So I am not feeling the red, but want something different. I was thinking maybe now of a dark grey block and silver accents. Keep the TATA kind of theme?
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Maybe all silver the same as the body colour, easy to find in engine paints.There is so much plumbing and brackets and aircleaner going on that you won't see any accents! Then you can tell your Chevy friends its the rare alloy block and heads version.....!!
It will have the accent of the darker grey shaker when you pop the hood.
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Yeah I am torn on this one, oh well I have time to decide!
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need more pics stat! .....I'm having withdrawals... ;D ;D ;D ;D
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Work has slowed down this month some, I just haven't had much time to get going on it. I hope it picks up soon I am having withdrawls also!!!
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Well did a lil work on her today. More minor stuff, clips, screws etc. The clips all went from blue to red. I wanted to see how they looked with the black frame. It's hard to tell but the grill on the cowl is actually charcol grey Here they are:
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc161.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc160.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc159.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc158.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc178.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc177.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc176.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc175.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc166.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc164.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc163.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/Misc162.jpg)
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I love the red clips. They will really stand out, in a good way. I painted mine black and am now thinking about going to blue. You are doing a Great job!
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Yeah the red looks awesome. Wait till the red engine is in there!
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Finished the defroster scoop:
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Misc180.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Misc179-1.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Misc181.jpg)
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Great work Dave. The defroster scoop is one of those things I still have on my long list. You are doing a great job!
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Great work Dave. The defroster scoop is one of those things I still have on my long list. You are doing a great job!
It was easy although it will be hidden when it's done lol
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Fresh air or recirculation vent door
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Got the defroster vent installed as wll as Started tearing down the motor today. Nothing tooo drastic there but did fine that the caps at least for #8 and #6 pistons is mismatched. They go 1,2,3,4,5,8,7,6 which isn't right. Hopefully no damage was done.
The motor looks to have been rebuilt once at least so who knows.
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Misc183.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Misc184-1.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Misc197.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Misc194.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Misc191.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Misc188.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Misc187.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Misc186.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Misc185.jpg)]
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Well here is a concept drawing I had done of the TATA finished. Removed alot of the stripes and of course the 78 front end. Doesn't capture the pro touring look as much but he was having trouble trying to figure out what I wanted.
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/tatalast200021.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/th_tatalast200021.jpg) (http://s131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/?action=view¤t=tatalast200021.jpg)
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Now that is one cool looking TATA! I love the concept drawing
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Yeah he did a nice job. I think it looks alot cleaner
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That does look awsome!!!
Now you've made me question which nose to use!!!
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Well here is my thinking on why I am stuck on the 78 nose.
#1 - I like it better
#2 - The TA although an awesome car was really thrown into fame by Smokey and the Bandit. I think if you follow the sales numbers after the movie it would confirm this. If I remember right 79 was the best selling year for the TA. I think the 79 should have retained the same nose piece to kinda acknowledge the film. So this 10th will be my view on what it should have looked like.
Sadly I am going to hold off for now on some of the larger purchases. With all the discussion of a double dip recession, I want to make sure I don't spend on something stupid.
On a good note my company (Reynolds Packaging) is on a hiring spree. We have called back all our payoff and hired an additional 20 people with more on the way. Added a new Reynolds Wrap line and are restarting one of our plastics extruders (We also make plastic trays for cookies and produce). So for us things are looking up, I just want to be sure, ya know?
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dude thats funny as i had a 78 ta model i painted like a tata when i was 15 lol looked very similar to your picture, but i think i put cragars on it iirc
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dude thats funny as i had a 78 ta model i painted like a tata when i was 15 lol looked very similar to your picture, but i think i put cragars on it iirc
Great minds think alike?
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possibly dude possibly. wish i didnt leave the camera in the truck today as there was a TATA following me for about 5 long miles in a parade. I was on foot and he was right behind me.
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I really like that rendering. Very clean.
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dude thats funny as i had a 78 ta model i painted like a tata when i was 15 lol looked very similar to your picture, but i think i put cragars on it iirc
Great minds think alike?
Great minds think alike but!!!!
fools seldom differ!!
Sorry I had too...please forgive me
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Hows the car coming along?
Any progress on the engine?
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Nope it's been idled for a bit, I am holding off on anymore nutty spending for now till some things at work settle down
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well, that makes sense
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Well we got good news today. Looks like we are solid. My company just bought out a major competitor so we are now the largest packaging company in the world. Pretty happy about that so I can start working on the TATA again!!!
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Right on!!!
A little piece of mind for sure!!
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Hmmm....when this packaging is produced and the sent to customers to use, how do you pack it?!
Anyway back to the topic, where's some updates and photos!?
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Hmmm....when this packaging is produced and the sent to customers to use, how do you pack it?!
Anyway back to the topic, where's some updates and photos!?
Well the packaging is packed in another package LOL My division is the Reynolds Wrap division and we encompass also the plastic caps on soda bottles as well as water bottles. We also manufacture all your cookie trays that you get with Keebler and Kraft products.
With the new company we will encompass Hefty brand as well as many other provate label products. So it's going to be exciting to see how it all unfolds.
As far as updates, they will come just be patient. I had some work to do on my home as well as a new tranny for my truck, so once those are done this month I hope to get started back on the front suspension!
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Not a ton to update, just got my cam ordered from Dick Miller Racing, should be here in a week or so. The plan is to get the short block built and the trans purchased (200R4) and get them in the car, then go from there.
Why? Well the guy I borrowed the engine stand from needs it back and I don't feel like buying one! =)
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Well I got the dash out and the heater box out, figured since I am here I may as well get the heater core replaced. And of course now I need to redo the heater box.....
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Interior/Misc199.jpg)
Anyone know where to get the two vacuum things?
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Interior/Misc200.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Interior/Misc201.jpg)
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Not sure if either of those are repro'd, always used or AC Guys might know of a very similar swap that will work.
Stick a clean piece of tube on and test them. Ignore any pitting or rust holes, might still have good rubber diaphragms inside. Also, the one attached to the heater door is dual vacuum from memory, has an extra port when you open the panel, taht might be it running back through that small slide in piece back inside.
If you suck on them and the internal doors move open and closed then they are still fairly functional but good time to clean up and get some new rubber seals around the heater mixing door etc.
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Looks like the canisters are good so here was some progress for the day: Primed and painted the heater box and worked on the temp control assembly. Repainted the little black panel behind the white lettering. Doesn't look 100% but good enough till I find something else. I was shocked how nasty the temp control was, it was one of the grasiest things on the car!
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Interior/Misc208.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Interior/Misc210.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Interior/Misc209.jpg)
Tough to get a pic of this thing!
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Interior/Misc214.jpg)
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nice!!
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Here are some more pics.
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Interior/Misc215.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Interior/Misc216.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Interior/Misc217.jpg)
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Might be able to help you with those vacume diaphrams. Let me check when I get home
Gunner
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Might be able to help you with those vacume diaphrams. Let me check when I get home
Gunner
OK cool, I did find them new at NPD as well.
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So I got my cam today, pretty cool. Excited to get the motor built. Talked to a very well known machine shop in the area, does lots of Olds stuff so thats a plus. Motor should be going the middle of the month!
So the downside. The way Dick Miller Racing makes it sound in his catalog is that he custom grinds the cam. Even has a picture of him doing some machine work. Well in reality he just has competition cams do the work. So that was a tad disappointing since I probably could have just called them direct and gotten the same thing. So far my experience with DM racing is he probably knows is stuff very well, but is just mostly overpriced aftermarket stuff.
So the cam specs are:
Adv Dur 274/283
Dur @ .050 230/240
Valve lift .538/.542
Lobe Sep 110.0
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OK well I decided since I am not going to uy the big things I will work on some of the smaller stuff. Here are some pics of the dash and wiring. I got the wiring somewhat organized and started wiping it all off cleaning it up so I can start to figure out where all the cut wires go =) Got to love those backyard mechanics!
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Interior/Misc229.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Interior/Misc230.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Interior/Misc218.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Interior/Misc219.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Interior/Misc220.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Interior/Misc221.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Interior/Misc222.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Interior/Misc223.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Interior/Misc224.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Interior/Misc225.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Interior/Misc226.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Interior/Misc227.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Interior/Misc228.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Interior/Misc231.jpg)
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Man not sure why they are all blurry!
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That brings back some memories of talking the Dash out of my '77. WHew, what a chore, but it looked great when it was done. You're really making solid progress, man!
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Thanks and it is a chore but will look great when it's done!
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Got my new engine stands today to store the motor till spring. Look nice.
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Engine/Misc232.jpg)
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Hey, that's pretty neat!
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Yeah they are very nicely made in the USA products. I doubt you would get something this nice from China
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Ok I am weak what can I say lol. I have wanted the coil overs forever and I decided I would just go ahead and get them. Nice to see the TATA sitting on her shocks again! Here are the pics!
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/Misc145.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/Misc237.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/Misc239.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/Misc241.jpg)
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How was it sliding those coil overs in?
Was it simmple?
I want a set of coil overs for mine!!
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No harder than a stock set up. I had to do my inreverse order of the directions though since I have no motor to help compress the spring when installing. Took about 15 minutes a side.
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15 a side!!!
That's not bad at all!!
where did you order them?
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I got mine from Summitt Racing since they are just up the road. =)
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ah!!! gotcha
thanks!!
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Very nice. I love.the coil over setup. Everything looks great. Keep up the great work.
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Thanks! I love it also. It is going slower than I like but this was a huge boost for me
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I know the feeling of things going very slow. I was supposed to have my car back on the road last december but other things got in the way. Hopefully in the next couple months I will be back on the road. Just keep up the great work and it will all be worth it in the end
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Ok well I got the sway bar on. Here are the pics, the drivers side looks really tilted to me but maybe thats becasue it is not setting right due to the spring not compressed much?? The part that holds the bar to the frame is off. I thought I had a 1 1/8 inch bar but I guess I have a 1 inch. So we will see. It is temporarily being held in place for the moment.
Passenger Side
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/SwaybarInstall1.jpg)
Drivers Side
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/SwayBarInstallL.jpg)
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Got my new PTFB upper control arms on order today and should be getting my spindles back this week as well. Can't wait to get those two parts on the car!
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Oh sweet coil overs. Very nice work there mate. I so can't wait to get to redo the suspension on mine. someday.
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Man not sure why they are all blurry!
Normally that is a case of the darker subject and not using a flash so the camera slows down the speed of the shot to make up for low lighting and as a result any movement during the shot is exaggerated. If you can change the settings put it on flash mode all the time if indoors, seems to be only operating in some or perhaps just using a really slow speed in the darker shots with no flash.
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Well the G8 sold so now I am down to my ol 92 F-150 (which is a Virginia truck so in good shape) and the TATA. SO now I can get to serious work on the TATA. Game plan for the rest of this year amd start of next is:
Upper control arms installed
Steering kit for PTFB
Brake kit for PTFB
Should be in the body shop in Early - Mid 2011 to get the body work done and get primered.
So thats my short term game plan but I am sure other smaller things will be getting done over the winter =)
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Got back to work on some things. I didn't get before pictures but everything was VERY rusty! Here is the parking brake in gloss black and part of the heater box in clear gloss
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Interior/Misc022.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Interior/Misc023.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Interior/Misc021.jpg)
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Thanks Hammer that means a lot coming from ya! Just ordered the front end steering kit so should have all the tie rods and stuff soon as well as the upper control arms. Be nice to have her a roller again!
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Thanks Happer that means alot coming from ya!
typo :D :D
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should say... "that means a lot coming from you!"
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Lesson. Don't type after 4 beers lol
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Well here are the tie rod ends. Just got them primed and painted, pick up the spindles tomm and then hopefully next week the PTFB upper control arms come in and I can get it together!
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/Misc249.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/Misc250.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/Misc251.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/Misc246.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/Misc247.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/Misc248.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/Misc252.jpg)
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Hey all, Well I haven't had much to update as I was awaiting my upper control arms. They finally arrived last night and I installed them today. Felt good to work on her again but with the job situation, the progress is going to be slow. Here is what got done today:
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/012.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/013.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/014.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/010.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/011.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/008.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/009.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/006.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/007.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/003.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/004.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/001.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Suspenion/002.jpg)
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hmmm, this project looks familiar ;) ::)
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Ok well I got the sway bar on. Here are the pics, the drivers side looks really tilted to me but maybe thats becasue it is not setting right due to the spring not compressed much?? The part that holds the bar to the frame is off. I thought I had a 1 1/8 inch bar but I guess I have a 1 inch. So we will see.
Don't know if you know, but any 79 TA would originally have a 1-1/4" front sway bar. I didn't read the whole thread, but I was wondering why your TATA didn't have the usual 1-1/4" front sway bar?
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nice work. the bird is coming together
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hmmm, this project looks familiar ;) ::)
I am just a little slower =)
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Ok well I got the sway bar on. Here are the pics, the drivers side looks really tilted to me but maybe thats becasue it is not setting right due to the spring not compressed much?? The part that holds the bar to the frame is off. I thought I had a 1 1/8 inch bar but I guess I have a 1 inch. So we will see.
Don't know if you know, but any 79 TA would originally have a 1-1/4" front sway bar. I didn't read the whole thread, but I was wondering why your TATA didn't have the usual 1-1/4" front sway bar?
It may have, it's not easy trying to measure it.
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Thanks 4 speed! Yeah it's going to be slower than I hoped due to the job situation but I am excited at the progress so far!
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Ok well I got the sway bar on. Here are the pics, the drivers side looks really tilted to me but maybe thats becasue it is not setting right due to the spring not compressed much?? The part that holds the bar to the frame is off. I thought I had a 1 1/8 inch bar but I guess I have a 1 inch. So we will see.
Don't know if you know, but any 79 TA would originally have a 1-1/4" front sway bar. I didn't read the whole thread, but I was wondering why your TATA didn't have the usual 1-1/4" front sway bar?
It may have, it's not easy trying to measure it.
An easy way to measure it is to take a crescent wrench and put over the bar and adjust the wrench down to the diameter of the bar. Remove the wrench, maintaining the adjustment and use a rule to measure the amount that the wrench is opened up to.
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Cool thanks
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im drooling!! very nice work!!
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Well I am hoping to get her moved this week to my new house and her new home. Will be in a nice heated garage so that will be nice. Also the job situation looks like it is going to improve so I can get funds back into the project!!!!
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Well I have all the parts at the house now. Have a friend with a roll off truck so he is going to move it for me. Now just waiting on getting the hubs from PTFB then she shuld be moved!
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Not really much to update, I have all the parts in the house now and I just need to sort them all again. Moving sucks! I am hoping to get my hubs soon from PTFB then get her moved.
I did find a local restoration shop right here in Canfield about 2 miles from my house. I like this more than a body shop as they are more in tune with getting it right rather than how many collision repairs they can push out the door. I went and look at their work and wow they do nice stuff. He usually does Mustangs, has a nice GT 350 in there, but also has a 57 chevy, a old GMC truck and a 68 442 in there. The black GMC he just painted is like glass.
So I am now going a little bit of a different direction in that I was not intially planning on have the body on a rotissorie (sp?). But since the floor pans need done he said it would only be a little more to blast the bottom and paint it rather than me trying to sand it from under the car. I guess this way I know what there is under there and that it has been blasted to clean metal and is all protected.
Since this car is not a trailer queen and could be out in the rain, I do want it protected the best possible way.
SO not much of an update but I wanted to post something lol.
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FINALLY able to do something on the car!!! I just ordered the hubs from PTFB. I didn't get the whole brake set up as I am not ready for them yet but hey at least it will have wheels back on it! Should be ready to move by the end of the month. I have a side trip to China I have to do mid Oct. So after that she will be moved over to the house! I'll post pics when she is on her way!
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Well a small update, I did find a unut shaker on here so that little search is complete. THe hubs should be here today so I am hoping by the end of the day she will have wheels back on and be ready to move. Sadly it won't be here today as my helper has to work but thats ok I don't have the garage cleared out and ready yet anyway. I'll get some pics up soon.
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Well for the first time in a year and a half she is back on the ground and ready to move. Here are the pics of the hubs. Not sure why the wheel studs are so long....
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/SANY0004.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/SANY0005.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/SANY0006.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/SANY0008.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/SANY0009.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/SANY0010.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/Trans%20Am/Front%20End/SANY0011.jpg)
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Don't know how long the wheel studs are, but if you don't have the rotors on yet, they will have to go through the thickness of the rotor too. That may be why they look long right now.
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Yeah that could be, they also are bigger in diameter so that was interesting.
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That's looking good!!!!
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Thanks although I am starting to doubt this project is ever going to really get going again, seems I have many other things to get done and it is really just taking up space. A decision is going to have to be made soon to either get going on it or sell it. Finding it hard to really justify the cash needed to get it going like I want.
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no no don't sell...when you get the time it will go again
I've been wearing the same shoes...it's been 11 years working on mine and you have way more done then I do
stay focussed and just what you can, when you can do it!!
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Well we are hoping now to move her on Black Friday or that Sat. I'll have the body shop look her over when she arrives and make a decision then on what will be needed to get her going. I am starting to notice house suck up a lot of cash, our new stainless appliances would have gotten me alot of car parts!
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Yes...but an unhappy wife could have permanently ended the project!!! ;) ;D
She has new appliances and you can work on the car again
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HMMMMMMMMMM Is that why I can't buy anything for my T/A?
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As far as the wheels go I would go with the 18's I have a set of 17's on my 81 and they really make the car stand out. I also replaced the 301 turbo with a 455 and am so glad I did. Its nice to have the power when I need it, but I'm not worried about resale I have owned the car since high school and its never going to be for sale. Good luck
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Well the TATA made it home, FINALLY!!! The body shop guy is coming over to look at it on Wed to give me an idea on cost. Fun stuff!!!!
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/2de7ff3c.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/a4014d86.jpg)
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well she looks great from what I can see. Good Luck
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I have not worked on it in a year but I am getting the itch!!!!! I have really had to scale down my ideas though, to get a more realistic project.
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Well the body shop guy stopped by the house, after looking her over good he says "wow it's not that bad" WHEW! So now the next step is to get her stripped down and off to the sand blasters! With winter setting in I will spend the winter getting her taken all apart and ready to go to the body shop!
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Man is it nice to just go out into the garage to work on the car. Started the stripping process....
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/9fc274b7.jpg)
Laying out all the wires. Will probably replace most of them.
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/37b6a4b1.jpg)
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Nothing too exciting, cleaned the main harness last night. Looks to be in good shape so I can reuse it. I am going to ohm out all the wires to be sure.
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/fd9e1300.jpg)
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Did a little more tear down on the TATA today, nothing major, just something to fill the time. Removed the shifter and the rest of the wire harness. Interior done with the exception of the door guts which looks to be a real blast.......
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/70bd2cd7.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/b624122c.jpg)
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So glad you decided to keep going! This is one of my favorite things to follow, Dave.
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Thanks, I am just now trying to decide if it stays a tata or not
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I just found this thread and spent the last hour going over it. You've got a really great car, I'm very impressed with what you've done so far. Keep after it, even small projects to bide time and funds. I've personally been there, and it seemed that I wasn't ever going to enjoy driving the car. It never occured to me that I WAS enjoying my car, project by project. I still consider my 76 Trans Am just a driver, it still needs a paint job, but it's mine. I put alot of sweat and love into every detail and I wouldn't sell or trade that for anything. You'll get there, and it will last you a long time. Keep up the awesome work and we'll all cheer you on and keep you motivated. ;D
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I just found this thread and spent the last hour going over it. You've got a really great car, I'm very impressed with what you've done so far. Keep after it, even small projects to bide time and funds. I've personally been there, and it seemed that I wasn't ever going to enjoy driving the car. It never occured to me that I WAS enjoying my car, project by project. I still consider my 76 Trans Am just a driver, it still needs a paint job, but it's mine. I put alot of sweat and love into every detail and I wouldn't sell or trade that for anything. You'll get there, and it will last you a long time. Keep up the awesome work and we'll all cheer you on and keep you motivated. ;D
Yes I agree! Thanks!!!!!
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Thanks, I am just now trying to decide if it stays a tata or not
common...it has to stay a TATA...well imo anyways...I love those cars and there weren't many built!!
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Thanks, I am just now trying to decide if it stays a tata or not
common...it has to stay a TATA...well imo anyways...I love those cars and there weren't many built!!
It might be but it probably won't be any where close to a stock one
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Talked to my local body shop the other day and also someone that knows his stuff and comes highly recommended and the body shop costs are probably going to kill the project. Cheapest I have found is 13K and that just at this moment might not be in the budget. The bones are decent but the floor pans combined with all the dings and dents to get her straight eats up alot of shop time, and as you know thats not cheap. So I am back to having to decide what I really want in the end. I would never recoup those costs on a non numbers matching car if I ever did decide to sell.
I know where I can get a 81 TA shell that is pretty cherry. I could get that and with even getting it painted and complete come in not much more than just the body work would cost on the TATA. With the stuff I want to do to the house and such I am not sure I can justify 13K to a body shop to save a car when I can do a different car cheaper. It wouldn't be a TATA but in the end I really don't care about that. I could yank the subframe off I have done and use that along with the rear end and just sell or scrap the shell that remains, yes I know I just heard a bunch of gasps lol. So we will see what I decide, besides I have a few months it's too cold outside to do anything on her =)
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Well if you decide to scrap/sell the body.... I have an option for you......
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Well, there could be some big changes going on here for this project, I'll keep ya in the loop =)
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Well guys Operation TATA is officially ended. I am putting the car up for sale and stopping any future progress. The cost to restore this vehicle is no longer in my budget and I hope to pass it on to someone who has the time and skills to get it done. Sad that I have to do this but things change with time.
I am undecided if I am going to do another project. I have one in mind and 99% sure I am going to move forward on that. It is in alot better shape and I can get it rolling a bit quicker.
So stay tuned.
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Dave thats Sad news, I have really enjoyed your progress. I can't wait for the next project.
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Why cant you tackle more of the body work yourself? Get most of it done, and if you dont feel comfortable shooting the paint, let the shop shoot the paint and you do almost everything else yourself. If you want this project to come together bad enough, you'll figure out how to get it done.
Myself, I have never had money to pay shop labor, so I always end up having to learn how to do what I need done, and I have learned how to get some pretty amazing stuff done...
Good luck to you and what ever your decide to do, as long as a bird is saved in the end, I'm cool with that :)
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what you call body work and what I call body work , are 2 different things.
and I say you, meaning someone that doesnt know what there doing.
I did a car a few years ago for a guy that did his own body work. I sprayed it , looked like glass when I was done . just dont look at it walking past it. you'd get sea sick. he loved it and I got paid. I deny that paint job to this day.. 75% of car buyers dont see what I look for. they see shinny new paint and fall in love with it.
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I don't know how to do body work and have no interest in doing it. It is meticulous work and thats not one of my skills. I would only pay to have someone fix it later. On top of that I don't have the time. I have too many other commitments and I would rather spend the time getting things done on my house rather than on a car. I still have another project in mind and if I can get it done and on the road faster that works good for me.
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^ I TOTALLY agree! What I feel and see with my inexperienced eyes and hands I could never catch the things you body guys do! Now if I was doing it purely out of a funds standpoint that's different?! All depends on what level or extent you are trying to reach.
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I would rahter pay the money and have it done right. If I can't afford to get it done correctly then I won't have the car.
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to me paint is the easy part. it only lays on top of your body work. the paint will only look as nice as the body work.
thats the easiest way to put it.
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bodywork to me is one of the easiest things and paint is just the proof to throw on top of it.
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Sad sad news.
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Hasn't ended, just ended for me. She will find a good home
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Well everyone it looks like the TATA is back in the mix. My goal was to have the car done when I was 45, and at late 43 and a huge body shop bill I figured the best option was to go a different direction. I found a great car but the Gods decided to throw in a curve ball on me. It's amazing sometimes how quickly things change. So I had to back out on the Formula due to a work situation. SO I figured I already have a TA I will continue to mess with it just at a MUCH slower pace. So the new goal is 47 =(. Damn 47 sounds so old!
So I appologize for the roller coaster and the drama, sometimes that just happens. For now I will do some small things and hopefully when things at work settle down I can get rolling on it full force again.
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Well Dave if it makes you feel any better.....
I bought my Y88 back in '02. I collected parts through '12. From '06 to '07 it was in and out of (3) body shops. It finally hit the road in '07. With the idea that the Y88 would be finished in short order after that I bought a plain jane 1980 firebird. I've been collecting parts for the firebird since then and have yet to finish the Y88 (albeit this spring I'll be light years closer to actually finishing this car). So long projects just let you appreciate the end result even more ;)
Keep your chin up as there is a bright light at the end of the tunnel!!
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Well Dave if it makes you feel any better.....
I bought my Y88 back in '02. I collected parts through '12. From '06 to '07 it was in and out of (3) body shops. It finally hit the road in '07. With the idea that the Y88 would be finished in short order after that I bought a plain jane 1980 firebird. I've been collecting parts for the firebird since then and have yet to finish the Y88 (albeit this spring I'll be light years closer to actually finishing this car). So long projects just let you appreciate the end result even more ;)
Keep your chin up as there is a bright light at the end of the tunnel!!
Thanks! Well on the good side the budget modification is forcing me to learn some things like rebuilding the engine that I have never done, so that will be exciting. Body work though is still out of my comfort zone =)
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Well the TATA came out for a bit today. Worked on getting the back bumper off but ran into a snag so I just took off some small stuff like the mirrors and such to get it ready for the body shop one of these days......
I love thats the tail panel is one of the cleanest parts on the car.....
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/b7938081.jpg)
Outside enjoying the sun
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/cc7d658c.jpg)
I bought this a few years back from Pete at Fbodywarehouse.com Thought I should get some inspiration and see it in the car..... someday
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/66b0245e.jpg)
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With the idea that the Y88 would be finished in short order after that I bought a plain jane 1980 firebird.
Brian, was that the car that was meant to be for your sister years ago? What ever happened to that?
Dave..the TATA is staying for now again?
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Yeah I am going to keep her, it will be slow going but in the end it's what I really want. The Formy was a VERY nice car and would have been an easy project, but the immediate funding I needed to complete the sale didn't materialize. So now I just will have to take small steps (and cheaper ones) to get the TATA going.
My original goal was to have it done by the time I hit 45, now my goal is to get it done before the car hits 45....lol
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With the idea that the Y88 would be finished in short order after that I bought a plain jane 1980 firebird.
Brian, was that the car that was meant to be for your sister years ago? What ever happened to that?
Not to hijack too badly but.....to make a long story short - When I bought it she was gung ho over the idea. Now that its been a few years, she's not interested. Fortunately the wife is into classic cars so it'll be done up to her tastes. **Yeah I should change my sig ;)
Dave - nice progress. Just keep whittling away at it, one little project at a time. If I might ask....what was the snag with the bumper? Bolts not want to cooperate??
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With the idea that the Y88 would be finished in short order after that I bought a plain jane 1980 firebird.
Brian, was that the car that was meant to be for your sister years ago? What ever happened to that?
Dave - nice progress. Just keep whittling away at it, one little project at a time. If I might ask....what was the snag with the bumper? Bolts not want to cooperate??
Yeah the studs that connect the rear cover to the body of the car are being stubborn. I'll get it off I just ran out of time.
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Well the motor is down with mrpbody (Jim LeHart)and the intake and heads are in the cooker now. He found some of the valve springs broken on the heads and one was missing an inner spring.....nice.
Block getting tore down today and cleaned then we will figure out how we want to go and cost. I did let him know I am on a very tight budget so I can't go radical on it. One things we are trying to figure out is which cam to use, I will either use the one I had ground or the one in the engine.
For those that have never worked with Jim he is great guy and very understanding.
Pics to follow when he sends them.
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Nothing too exciting to report. Jim magnafluxed and stripped the heads, no cracks on those. Same with the intake. Both cleaned up nice which surprises me as rusty as they were. Block goes in today, it got held up last week.
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My block inspection report from JIm:
I have inspection reports.
First, the block and heads are fine (no cracks). The block is now .030" over and beat. It will "clean" at .060". Looks like plenty of "meat" in the walls for that. The guides are worn and the valve stems are worn out. Highly recommend replacement of the guides with bronze (due to the cam you supplied). The valves I sell come from SI Valves in California. First-rate quality. At least two broken valve springs when we disassembled them, so those will need replacement as well. I usually try to find the spring that best suits the cam and installed height, at the "best" price.
The "bad" news is that the crank is beat. That one rod journal is too far "gone" to save it. I DO have a couple 455 cores. At least one connecting rod is "bad", too, but you already knew that. I can get "singles" of stock rods or you can opt for a set of Eagles (your money, you tell me). Unlike the Pontiac,.the "stock" Olds rods are very good.
The cam that was in the engine is an old Comp "Magnum" grind (280-AH). These grinds have been obsolete for many years. I believe the cam you supplied (new) is a much better choice.
So, this is an overview. I have some suggestions, but I want you to "digest" all this and make sure it matches what you expected me to find "in there". Let me know what you think.
Jim
So talking to him for what I am using I am not further ahead swapping in the Pontiac and just keeping the 455. So he is going to do a bit more research on the parts and give me a call later in the week.
Once again a great guy to work with!
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Here are the cam specs we are building the engine around.
Int Exh
Adv Dur 274 283
Dur@.050 230 240 Lobe Sep 110.0
Valve Lift .538 .541
The motor isn't going to be a drag racer, but a very nice cruiser. Mostly stock with a few exceptions. I am going to have it done .060 over and that brings in new pistons and such obviously. Jim will do the machine work and install the crank and bearings and such. I will be putting the engine together as I get money/time. The motor stock was in the 350 - 375 range so this should boost it a bit more and thats more than enough for me. I will post some pics as soon as Jim sends them.
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I would think it could make 400 hp pretty easily....
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Well I will spill the beans that the TATA is Sale Pending at this moment. Talked it over with the Mrs and even with taking it in stages, it was more than I wanted to put into the car. I won't say who bought it just yet, in due time it will be obvious. Also I have something more in tune with my plans in the works but I am also keeping that mum till I am 100%.
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Hmmm?
when is anything like this 100%?
Now i have to keep checking this thread to see what's up?
I have a couple ideas (guesses) .
Hmmm?
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Well I am hoping one will be 100% by the beginning of March and the second not too long after that :)
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So far some good guesses but noone has the new owner pegged yet. I'll let him/her spill the beans whenever he/she chooses......
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When does this new ownership take place?
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Beginning of March, is just too vague .
Hummmmmmmm?
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I should know more tomm.
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Is it a forum member?
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Hmmmmm it could be
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You know if you follow through with the sale, you have to buy a Camaro next, right? ;D
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LOL WHy would I have to buy a Camaro?
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It's the rules ;) (call it punishment...call it an upgrade...whatever lol )
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Nooooo no Camaros for me =) The new owner is on the Forum and east of the mississippi
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I think I know who it is......
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I am sure you do =)
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It would appear as if I am the owner of the TATA next month :)
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WOW Really? Congrats! I didn't see that one coming....oh wait....yes I did! :)
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Haha. It will be pretty cool.
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Pretty cool???? NO it will be WAY Freakin cool!
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Haha oh i think its awesome! thanks. It will be local to you too
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Hummmmmmmm?
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Yes?
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Pretty cool???? NO it will be WAY Freakin cool!
I just didn't want to look too stupid. :D
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(http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll281/shank0668/78tata.jpg)
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I am guessing thats not a real TATA. The front seat looks different. Someone stole my idea lol
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I am guessing thats not a real TATA. The front seat looks different. Someone stole my idea lol
It's a photoshop I did. I think I am going to put the 77-78 bumpers on it.
(http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll281/shank0668/79ta.jpg)
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Like the interior ideas, Hate the exterior ideas.
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I am thinking keeping the nose silver.
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I was going to keep the bumpers silver and the only dark grey on the hook and roof, I also was going to do the 78 nose. Nice PS skills BTW!
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I was going to keep the bumpers silver and the only dark grey on the hook and roof, I also was going to do the 78 nose. Nice PS skills BTW!
Thanks!
(http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll281/shank0668/78tata2.jpg)
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I would just restore it as a correct TATA...
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I would just restore it as a correct TATA...
I knew I'd get a lot of that... lol
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Saturday the car should be mine, and at my place of residence. ;D
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As mentioned by Shank tomm Operation TATA will start a new chapter of it's life. I hope this thread continues with what he does with the car. We will swap over the front end items, Upper control arms, coil over shocks to my 81 and then she should be loaded up and heading to her new home. I like that it is "local" to me so I can see the progress first hand and eventually do some car cruises together!
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I'll continue the thread. I have a lot to live up to. :)
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All ready for tomm.....
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/22fb6673.jpg)
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Heading of to her new home:
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/81%20Trans%20Am/008.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/81%20Trans%20Am/009.jpg)
I think Sams Dad was trying to leave him.....
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/djcoak/81%20Trans%20Am/010.jpg)
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congrats guys i am looking forward to seeing the progress
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Looks like headaches and stress for Dad .
Just joking ya-----------------------------right.
Father and Son/Daughter projects are always my favorites.
Looking forward to watching this come together.
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I am excited too. Apparently I am on a 6 month retainer to help sort out where all the parts go!
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I am excited too. Apparently I am on a 6 month retainer to help sort out where all the parts go!
Actually I was pretty impressed to see all the bags attached to the parts. You probably saved hours of frustration there.
Thanks you guys!
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I actually mixed all the bags up and attached them to different parts.......
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I actually mixed all the bags up and attached them to different parts.......
Haha wouldn't that be a blast.
It's like a puzzle!
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Our garage is a
MESS
Once I get that red thing out of there the clutter will be cleared, and it will be TATA time.
Maybe in a month?
(http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll281/shank0668/IMG_2415.jpg)
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I'll hang onto the vette for ya.....
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I'll hang onto the vette for ya.....
It does need a bath.....
The TATA should be good incentive to get that fiero done.
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frickin garage envy again, what is with you guys and your garages
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frickin garage envy again, what is with you guys and your garages
You'll really have garage envy if we can get my brothers garage built and I sneak it into there.
Thanks
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lol just what i need
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Would it be bad to put a BBC under the hood?
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http://www.jegs.com/i/GM+Performance/809/19171049/10002/-1
or
http://www.jegs.com/i/GM+Performance/809/12568774/10002/-1
or
Olds 455?
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Do you even have to ask?
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Do you even have to ask?
Haha well I am looking at all of my options.
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If you research the companies that rebuild them it is kinda of a crap shoot. For the money to swap it over you can have the Olds done and at least an Olds came with the car so it is somewhat correct.
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If you research the companies that rebuild them it is kinda of a crap shoot. For the money to swap it over you can have the Olds done and at least an Olds came with the car so it is somewhat correct.
I think I will have about 4-5 in the olds. Then I need to get a bell housing for the trans to mate to it =$500. That 4-5k is not forged internals, but should still run well.
It just boils down to what will work the best.
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If you research the companies that rebuild them it is kinda of a crap shoot. For the money to swap it over you can have the Olds done and at least an Olds came with the car so it is somewhat correct.
I think I will have about 4-5 in the olds. Then I need to get a bell housing for the trans to mate to it =$500. That 4-5k is not forged internals, but should still run well.
It just boils down to what will work the best.
Bell housing for what trans?
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T56 6 speed.... or so the plan is.
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I hate how this thread has stalled, I wish I had updates.... This summer I plan on redoing the floors and trunk... then trying to get the underside blasted and coated.
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Forum updates are relative to the amount of cash you have to spend =)
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Forum updates are relative to the amount of cash you have to spend =)
So true! Thus why my thread has stalled lol
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Forum updates are relative to the amount of cash you have to spend =)
I am bringing it in.... LOL
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Stalled That's an understatement, I was gonna take pics of me Washing my freshly POR15 Painted Subframe bcuz it has sat so long waiting for front end parts I had to wash it! :D ::)
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Forum updates are relative to the amount of cash you have to spend =)
Isn't that the truth!!!
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(http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll281/shank0668/IMG_0038.jpg)
I don't know how this happened.
:o
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hmmm all of that looks very strangely familiar!
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hmmm all of that looks very strangely familiar!
;)
Blocks are LIGHT
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hmmm all of that looks very strangely familiar!
;)
Blocks are LIGHT
very... and if you want to run a/c notch the frame or youll be running a relocater bracket up top on the passenger side.... I gotta pull mine for a clutch explosion that just happened, and somewhere there is an oil leak.... but again you know if you need help pm me....
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hmmm all of that looks very strangely familiar!
;)
Blocks are LIGHT
very... and if you want to run a/c notch the frame or youll be running a relocater bracket up top on the passenger side.... I gotta pull mine for a clutch explosion that just happened, and somewhere there is an oil leak.... but again you know if you need help pm me....
That's unfortunate on yours.
I think the relocation of the A/C would be more practical, but putting it down low will give a better appearance. How bad is it to notch the frame?
The unfortunate thing is I need oil pan, intake, coils, wiring, computer, all accessories. That is going to cost me $$$$
Thanks!
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A/c notching isn't bad I'll be doing mine here soon, start shopping at ls1tech.com if you want good deals, run the fbody pan as the "swap" pan I think sits too low, but if you want a "swap" one ill sell ya one for a good price, intake go ahead and get the ls6 find one for 250-300 that's going rate for cheap....
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A/c notching isn't bad I'll be doing mine here soon, start shopping at ls1tech.com if you want good deals, run the fbody pan as the "swap" pan I think sits too low, but if you want a "swap" one ill sell ya one for a good price, intake go ahead and get the ls6 find one for 250-300 that's going rate for cheap....
Yeah I Figure I probably should just get the LS6 Intake. Thanks for the info on the pan.
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Update:
Still haven't transferred the title, lol. Need to get that done.
Since I need floor pans and trunk done, I decided it wouldn't be bad to buy a welder.
Going with a Miller 211 with a 40 CF tank and Miller Pro Hobby Hood. Getting it saturday. That is going to be a big hit on my bank account. Then I will do floors/trunk and get the car in primer.
Yay spring time.
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Well...what's the skinny on the car?
Get the floors patched up?