Cuda-Challenger.com
The Good Stuff => Member's Restoration Projects => Topic started by: ShelbyDogg on May 06, 2008 - 01:33:36 PM
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It's taking a long time. Since my Cuda is out getting block sanded, I started tearing apart the Convertibe. More pics to follow. I'll be cutting out the complete floor soon.
Rob
Found on EBAY. Total Rust Bucket but all of the parts were there. It is a 71 convertible, 318 ci, 904 auto, with A/C, power top, power windows, power disc brakes, power steering, gold ext, tan int, black top, coded for an AM/FM and those goofy 14" wire hubcaps.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/front.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/71-vert/M01A0066.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/71-vert/M01A0067.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/71-vert/M01A0068.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/71-vert/M01A0069.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/71-vert/M01A0238.jpg) (http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/71-vert/M01A0239.jpg) (http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/71-vert/M01A0245.jpg) (http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/71-vert/M01A0244.jpg)
I had my sign guy print some decals. A friend had an original set, still rolled up, that I had copied.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/decals.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/decals2.jpg)
What it might look like when I'm finished:
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/pacecar1.jpg)
and another
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/pacecar2.jpg)
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:bananasmi Sweet...the Pace car is started :bananasmi
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Looking forward to see the progress :2thumbs:
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Good luck :2thumbs:
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Rob do you have a time frame for getting the Pace car done or are you just going to try and get it done in the next few years? I looked for parts for my Cuda the first year I had it and hardly touched it. It still took me 5 years and 100's of man hours to get it done. I stopped keeping track of the hours I had in the Cuda once I got above 1300. Good luck and take lots of pictures so you keep us up to date on your progress.
Jeff
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:hyper: :woohoo: :crazy:
Are you planning a stock rebuild?
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Are you planning a stock rebuild?
My plan is to fuel inject the 318 for modern performance and put in a 518-OD or convert it to a 4-speed. I'm collecting all of the parts to convert it and only need the shifter linkage now. I love 4 speeds but picked up 2 518s last year. The car will be Pace car orange with a white interior. I might put a rallye hood on it. The car was a factory A/C power steering, power disc brake, power windows and top. It is all numbers matching 318, 904, 8-3/4, but nobody cares about g-coded cars, so I will modernize it a little to drive it far away consuming the smallest amout of gas possible.
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Cool will you use the newer 5.2 magnum to make the efi better? :thinkerg:
I did an 85 crew cab ram a few years back with the 5.9 and efi ,boy what a nice driver with the 518 trans.
Good luck keep the pictures comming.
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For now I'll be using the factory 318, that came in it. I will just change the intake to inject it. It only came with a 2bbl, that has to go.
A few more pics..
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/vert-2.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/trunk.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/drivers-floor-1.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/floor.jpg)
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:popcorn: I love the gas tank :2thumbs:
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so I will modernize it a little to drive it far away consuming the smallest amout of gas possible.
Sounds like a great plan Rob. I hope to do that one day with a slant six/4-speed OD version. I will be watching this closely. Please keep the pictures coming. :2thumbs:
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:popcorn: I love the gas tank :2thumbs:
I was thinking the same thing. :smilielol:
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The gas tank makes it easy to take out and move far away when the sparks are flying. I had a very bad experience with gasoline and fire around '82. After a dirty transmission job, I was trying to clean my garage floor with soap and water. I used a little gas and it cleaned great, so I used a lot of gas! Fumes built up, gas water heater decided to fire up, Boom, air was on fire with me in it. I put out the basement garage fire but fumes had traveled up a wall and started the attic on fire. Had to call 911 to put that one out. (good thing I was renting)
:roflsmiley: I bet the owner thought the same thing :smilielol: NOT :faint: :2thumbs:
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Dang man! That is one heck of an experience!!! :eek2: The Challenger is going to be sweet.
Cuda Guy
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Look good, Rob! Keep us updated! :thumbsup:
Are you going to keep the wire wheel hubcaps or go with Rallies? Those hubcaps look nice on a pace car. Flat hood gonna stay? I would assume so... :dunno:
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I have a set of 15x10s Rallyes with 295-50s, that I bought from HANEY (Jamie) in the for sale section. I'll probably use those for the Muscle look. Those wire hubcaps are a rare option that only came on 14" wheels. Right now, I have 2 flat hoods and a T/A hood, but would love another Rallye hood for it.
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The gas tank makes it easy to take out and move far away when the sparks are flying. I had a very bad experience with gasoline and fire around '82. After a dirty transmission job, I was trying to clean my garage floor with soap and water. I used a little gas and it cleaned great, so I used a lot of gas! Fumes built up, gas water heater decided to fire up, Boom, air was on fire with me in it. I put out the basement garage fire but fumes had traveled up a wall and started the attic on fire. Had to call 911 to put that one out. (good thing I was renting)
:roflsmiley: I bet the owner thought the same thing :smilielol: NOT :faint: :2thumbs:
:stirpot: i LOVE IT ! :smilielol:
The TA hood could look great in body color you could say your pacing the field faster than the rest. :burnout:
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I spent a couple of hours today cutting out the left floor. I'm leaving the hump and linkage for now, because I might try to mock up the 518 and figure out the slap-stick linkage problem that has never been answered, If I put in a 4-speed later and not use the 518, at least I'll have a "how-to 518 an e-body" for this site.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/vert-3.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/vert-4.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/vert-5.jpg)
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Rob looks like not much of the floor was good. I like the idea of a overdrive and FI and it should get pretty good gas mileage.
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I hope you can figure out the 518 linkage problem. I would love to put one in my car. Good luck :2thumbs:
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The 518 seems simple enough. Once the trans case is modified, it seems that all I would have to do is weld a "U" shaped arm to go around the new fatter case. This arm would connect the top and bottom of the arm that runs down vertically through the tunnel, to the trans.
If you can make it work, you should copyright it and sell them. You could make a bundle. I would buy one :2thumbs:
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If you can make it work, I would buy one
Tonight, I took the whole passenger floor and the windshield out. I had a roll of windshield wire from Harbor Freight. so it was easy pulling it out after using a grinder and cut-off wheel on the thick, hard-as-a-rock, urethane. The heat dug a trench and softened it up so pulling the wire was easy. I've used regular wire before but this braided windshield wire was worth the few dollars that I paid for it.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/floor-tunnel.jpg)
I included a picture of the slap-stik linkage for the 518 project. The part that the others are having problems with is this vertical bar. When the new fatter 518 case is installed, It's width takes up this space where the bar is. I don't see it as a problem. I have a welder and I can make just about anything.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/linkage.jpg)
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Thanks for the pics. I will be watching for your updates. Good luck. :2thumbs:
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:2thumbs: I was going to mock up my 518 the same way with the floor out But I got lazy and went to a 833 4spd!I was thinking if the trans didn't fit through the cross member I was going to from and weld some 1/4 steel on the hump of the cross member so if I had to trim some of the under side it wouldn't lose any strength.
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I'm done with the 518 mock up and it works. See the pics in the trans and drivetrain section under Carlwaski's 518 thread. I pulled the dash and cleaned out the winshield sealer. This thing must have leaked lots. the channel around the winshield was full of rock hard urethane. I took a buch of pics of the cowl rot holes. There may be more on the heater side.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/dash-1.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/dash-2.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/rust-1.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/rust-2.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/rust-3.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/rust-4.jpg)
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:22yikes: Holely cowl! :scared:
Nice progress, Rob! :thumbsup:
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Pulled the dash and everything in the engine compartment except the engine. I'm waiting for the weekend to get my trailer and friend's cherry picker to pull it. Today I took an old bed's frame apart and used the metal to make the door struts to keep my body stiff when I turn it over. Here are some pics. I'm welding the front mount to the windshield area and bolting it to the holes that the convertible top's frame bolts. It should be stronger than the bar others use to attach the top hinge to the door latch striker. Mine allows the door be put back on and close.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/strut-1.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/strut-2.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/strut-3.jpg)
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Hey Shelby D................
That is a really good idea, i will have to steal that idea when time comes for my own build buddy. Glad you shared that. :cheers: Thanks........ :2thumbs:
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I think my way would add more strength than uscartools brace, in the pic below. Mine is an angle instead of just a strap and higher up. I can still crawl through the hole too. Anything is still better than nothing. A friend of mine just did his Vert metalwork on a rotissery and didn't have one on at all. He welded his frame connectors on when the car was upside down too. He thinks that if it isn't right, then he will have to take it somewhere to have it "bent".
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/uscar-1.jpg)
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No, i must say i like your idea a lot more than what they have pictured. Only a slight advantage with what they have over nothing at all :faint:
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Pulled the HEMI out today. Yeah right.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/318-pull.jpg)
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:bananasmi Should have quoted "making room for the Hemi" :2thumbs:
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Looking good there dogg. When you get the car done are you really going to put the decals on or at that point decide that it looks great without them.??
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Looking good there dogg. When you get the car done are you really going to put the decals on or at that point decide that it looks great without them.??
This car to me will look GREAT when I get it finished and put my decals on. It won't be finished till I get them on. That is the only reason to paint it Hemi-Orange, since I already have a Hemi-orange car. I had never seen a Pace Car in person till last years Power Tour. The couple driving it was from Kentucky and I saw them again at the Woodward Dream Cruise. I can't wait to start cruising it around St. Louis. Doesnt' this car look good, with it's white interior? Mine will look better with a rallye hood and no side moulding. It will be fuel-injected for high mileage cruising.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/pacecar-1.jpg)
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Sound like a great plan ROB. Build it the way you want and I know it will look good. :2thumbs:
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Rob will you put the 2 flags on yourr car? :poopoke:
:2thumbs:
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I pulled the k-member and it looks like the driver's side frame rail is bent. It was from a corner accident before I got it. It looks like 2 kinks. I can have it pulled but it will never be as strong as a welded in, straight frame rail.
I have a frame rail, cowl and firewall, ready to put in so I have everything up on jackstands all levelled out. I'm ready to start cutting but can't get myself to start. Still trying to decide if I should farm it out. Did you ever keep staring at stuff, planning your next move? I've built full chassis race cars from kits so this should be simple. I guess I'll dive in and just do it. I'll send some pics up.
I now have every part to make it a 4-speed, but since I have 2 4-speed cars already, I still want to try the 518-slapstick. I'ts just that a 4-speed pistol grip looks better to anybody, when they look inside your car.
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Once you start it's all down hill from there.I had a hard time getting myself to cut out the left side cowl but my wallet and I are glad I did the work!I think I measured fifty times before I put one weld on. You can do it! :2thumbs:
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Looks like you are coming along pretty good. I'll be watching your project pretty close since it is pretty much just like mine except for the drivetrain and hood. I see you are in St Louis. That isn't far away, if you get up into central Illinois and want to stop in, let me know. If you haven't got the ralleye hood yet I may be able to make you a deal. I won't be using mine. Keep up the good work.
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Looks like it's coming a long great, Rob! :thumbsup:
Just for the fun of it, I saw this on the net...
http://www.toywonders.com/ProductCart/pc/Greenlight-Pace-Car-Garage-Dodge-Challenger-Convertible-Indy-500-1971-1-18-Orange-11802OR-94p7141.htm
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Hey Rob,
This may be a dumb question, but was the original Pace Car an auto or manual?
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T
Save me that hood! I'll surely use it! Are you between me and Chicago?
Rob
I'm in a little town called Farmer City. 25 miles west of Champaign off I-74.
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Rob, I haven't been to Monster Mopar for a couple of years. I'm thinking about going again this year. If you go every year and know a super gas drag car named Dartzaster, that's the pit area I'm at when I do go. We also have some swap spaces at the Nats again this year. Earlier you mentioned going to see Megaparts at the Nats. Our swap spaces are across the aisle from theirs every year. You'll have to come by for a cold one.
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I'm just trying to figure out how to get your hood if I buy it from you. I might have something to trade. What are you looking for?
I'll just save the hood until Monster Mopar. I'll either bring it or send it with my buddy if I can't make it. You can look it over. If you like it we can make a deal. If you don't like it, no problem. I'm all for trading. Less money involved the better. You said something about being a 4-speed hoarder. I may be interested in those kind of parts. I've always wanted to convert my car to a manual shift. What else do you need? I've been down sizing but still have a few things laying around. I'm sure we can work something out. The hood isn't going anywhere.
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Today I cut the old frame out and installed my straight replacement. It is a little bit rusty but it's all I have right now. Here are some pics of it cut out. I have it bolted in with k-frame bolts, clamped, and it's ready to be welded in. It's kind of hard to see the framerail missing with all of the junk in the picture.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/frame-1.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/frame-2.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/frame-3.jpg)
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Rob nice pictures and I'll have to come by sometime and check the Challenger out in person. Looks like you are moving right along on your Pace car.
Jeff
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Hey Rob,
I was thinking, since you want to get good mileage and still have a V8, have you considered using a 273? I mean you could use flat-top pistons with the small chamber 318 heads so that your compression could be around 8.5-9:1. Use the original 340 cam with 1.6 rockers and the 273 should have a decent amount of power. This way you still have the rumble of a V8 exhaust, but should get even better mileage than a 318. What do you think?
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Today I cut the old frame out and installed my straight replacement. It is a little bit rusty but it's all I have right now. Here are some pics of it cut out. I have it bolted in with k-frame bolts, clamped, and it's ready to be welded in. It's kind of hard to see the framerail missing with all of the junk in the picture.
We knew you could do it! :2thumbs:
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The 318 in it is still good and numbers matching. I think I'll just do the rings and timing chain set, then paint it. The gas mileage will come from the throttle body fuel injection setup that I have ready to bolt on. The smallest I would ever go is a 318.
Rob
Oh, I did not realize the engine was still in that good of shape. Sounds like a plan to me. :2thumbs:
Is the throttle body setup that you have made by Holley or something else?
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Got back to work on the car today. I was working on and Imperial for a guy to get money to pay for sheetmetal for my car. $1400.00 was his bill. woohoo! It's all being picked up at Carlisle by a friend from Megapart's spot. Front and rear floors, outer wheel houses, trunk extensions and cowl-corner repair sections.
While I'm waiting to metal, I cut off the cowl and finished welding the frame rail in. The spare cowl, framerails, and firewall was GIVEN to me, last year, by DRAGFISH, a member here and friend of Tony Miller. Thanks Dragfish!
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/cowl.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/cowl-6.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/cowl-4.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/cowl-2.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/cowl-3.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/cowl-7.jpg)
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Today, I worked on the left side hinge area. It ws poorly repaired years ago by "who knows".
After staring at it for a while, I dug right in and started welding in some metal to hold my corner in place, then started cutting.
The arm going up the windshield will be replaced too. I marked the bad spots.
I'll probably have to replace the firewall before I put this side back on since I don't want to lose any more reference points by taking out my inner fenders.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/cowl-corner-1.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/cowl-corner-2-small-marked.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/cowl-side-small.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/cowl-side-2-small.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/bracing-1-small.jpg)
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Spent all day slicing and dicing the cowl off. I need to stop cutting things because now only a brand new cowl and firewall will do. This would be the only chance I have to put a new one in. Is it worth the $1100 though?
I mocked up my used firewall and cowl side to see how it fits. I also included a pic of the support brace that every convertible has in it's rocker for strength.
Do you know the windshield's side support on a vert is different than on a hardtop? It is more rounded then covered with the side stainless molding. Now I will have to slice mine up the middle and round it off a little or the molding wont fit.
I have my new floors. The piece of tunnel is just in there as a referance point fo mounting the firewall. After it gets welded in, that old hump comes out.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/7-20-08-8.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/7-20-08-9.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/7-20-08-7.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/7-20-08-6.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/7-20-08-5.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/7-20-08-4.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/7-20-08-2.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/7-20-08-3.jpg)
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That is some major work you are completing. Keep it up and that convert will look brand new. :2thumbs:
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:iagree: You have pulled some serious panels out of your way............... and to think, you were just looking for were the water leaked in from under the dash :poopoke: :smilielol: :2thumbs:
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I'll I have to say is WOW. I thought I did major surgery on my car. I was wrong. This is MAJOR surgery. Good luck. I'm sure it will be better than new when its done.
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Rob I may have to drive over and take a look at this Challenger vert as this is the only way to fully under stand what it takes to rebuild a car from the ground up that needs this much attention. Everything looks like it is coming along pretty fast and I wonder how you are handling working in the high heat and humidity?
Jeff
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Rob this thing is moving right along! Do you think it will be done for Carlisle 09? I know you mentioned you may or may not come next year.... but... I may or may not come to the NATs so... But I will for sure make it to the Good Guys show that Tony's friends put on there in Ohio.
Bottom Line if that thing is done next summer I got to see it!!!
Don
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After working on the old replacement firewall, I decided only a new cowl and firewall will do. I might as well go for it and stop wasting time patching my old one. How can I put in all new floors and not have a new firewall and cowl in my Pace Car!
Rob
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/cowl-amd.jpg)
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If you can't find anybody to get it closer to your place, I can get it back to central Illinois for you
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That's a good looking piece. Do they make the A/C version. I noticed the one you have pictured is the non-A/C.
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:faint: Great job on the vert, Rob! Incredible the amount of cutting and splicing you're doing! You've got a lot of talent! :thumbsup:
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Don, I still have a Cuda that I have in a friend's shop for block sanding. It will come back anytime so with limited funds. I'm doing stuff to make this ver solid again. It might not be done for a while.
Rob
Rob
Its all good, Im sure we will run into eachother next summer! :burnout: Good luck with your projects! Dave at Roseville seems like he is a stright shooter. Plus I grew up in that area so that makes him good to go automaticly No in all seriousness he has went out of his way to answer some off the wall stuff I have asked him and has came through for me. Too bad that other firewall didnt work out, looked like it was going to be good to go from the pics??? If you dont mind PM me about your cuda some time I would love to hear about it, you know me I love me some cudas.
Don
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This should get you going! :poopoke:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Dodge-Challenger-PACE-CAR-1971-CHALLENGER-PACE-CAR-CONVERTIBLE_W0QQitemZ230276154400QQcmdZViewItem?hash=item230276154400&_trksid=p3286.m14.l1318
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Thanks Chuck. I usually check Ebay for Vert stuff everyday. Here is what I e-mailed the guy about that "pace car";
"I don't see your serial number in the set of 50 at indypacecars.com http://www.indypacecars.com/1971vins.html
Could it just be a dealer decaled car from Indiana? "
That list is UNOFFICIAL, so who knows. We know that it probably wasn't on the track that day.
If you dont mind PM me about your cuda some time I would love to hear about it, you know me I love me some cudas.
Don
......
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/cuda-cut.jpg)
Don, quick rundown about my Cuda. I found it by accident, Looong story. A guy was saving it to restore for his kid, parked in the back yard. A BIG tree fell on the rear trunk and quarters and killed it. He pulled the engine and trans and parked it next to a another tree outside a friends barn. No trunk lid and no rear window. It then sat for years outside with rain, snow, leaves, and trash collecting in the open holes. Mice made it a hotel. He still had hopes for it but the kid didn't like it. I found it, the guy said the grill was worth at least $400, so that's what I gave him for the car. The good: Real BS 72 Cuda, 340 4 spd, A/C, Power disc, steering and brakes, yellow with black stripes. The Bad: I had to replace the trunk, trunk floor, trunk extensions, trunk gutters, quarters, Hood, repair the frame, parts of the rear roof, find a 340 and trans and all 4-speed parts except the pedals. Plus everything else. Right now it runs and moves, the A/C is charged and cold, but it is still a shell getting blocked and primed. After all the welding I did, I got sick of sanding and bondo dust, so I sent it to a friends and traded labor. It'll just be a driver and not a show car.
This was the short version.
Rob
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Worked on my rocker and firewall side yesterday. I'm still waiting to buy my new firewall and cowl BUT I keep welding on my old ones to patch holes. (I don't know why) I keep reinstalling it and adjusting things, thinking that I can save $900 bucks. I have to keep telling myself that new metal will be better than old metal and stop messing with these old parts. The Nationals is 1-1/2 weeks away so once I buy the new parts, this project will take off!
Here I sliced up a replacment firewall side for trial fitting. The last pic is of the difference between a Hardtop windshield pillar compared to a Vert's pillar. See the difference? The vert's pillar is rounded to allow the stainless trim to pop over it. It will not fit over this shape. Once I weld it on, I will have to slice a piece out of it, knock it down, then weld it back up.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/07-08-08-5.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/07-08-08-4.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/07-08-08-3.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/07-08-08-2.jpg)
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Hey Rob,
Great update buddy. Did not know about the windscreen pillars being so different than the hardtop ones :2thumbs: And those holes in the substructure of the sills is new to me aswell, how thick is that piece 1/8th" ?
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Hey Rob, those holes in the substructure of the sills is new to me as well, how thick is that piece 1/8th" ?
That piece is thicker than 1/8. It almost seems closer to 1/4".
I welded in my firewall and cowlside and a-pillar yesterday. Today I'm going to fit my floor and start drilling all of those holes for welding. I've had bad luck with my weld-through primer and would rather just weld it as bare metal.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/08-16-08-3.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/08-16-08-2.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/08-16-08-4.jpg)
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Looking good Rob. You're going to end up getting yours done before me at this rate. I need to update my thread one of these days.
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:iagree: I didn't like the weld through primer it had to much burn through!
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Today, I had family stuff to do but before I did that, I converted my hardtop a pillar to a vert a- pillar. I had to slice out a piece, then hammer both side down, weld it, grind it, then etch-prime it.
On a vert, this piece is completely covered with stainless trim.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/a-pillar-0.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/08-17-08-1.jpg)
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Rob your project looks like a big one for sure. I'm glad you are moving along the way you are while your motivated as it is easy to get burned out on a big project like this. Thanks for the pictures and the update.
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:wow: It is starting to look like a car again............... Amazing that a few large pieces put back in can change the look of what you have. The pillar work looks real nice aswell :2thumbs:
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Looking good Rob. Keep it up and you will have a sweet convert. :2thumbs:
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So I had a little time. I reattached my door to make sure that the hinge mounts were in the correct place since I had to change the lower hinge box inside the replacement firewall side. The door gap adjusted back to where it should be, so I finished welding in the firewall side. It was time to remove the remaining hump that I left in for a reference point. I trial fit my floors to mark them for the 189 weld holes that I have to drill. The new firewall and floors look great together.
Rob
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/08-21-08-1-small.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/08-21-08-2-small.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/08-21-08-3-small.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/08-21-08-4-small.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/08-21-08-6-small.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/08-21-08-7-small.jpg)
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Rob it looks like things will be welded in shortly and glad it is all fitting the way it should. Keep taking pictures as one picture is worth a 1,000 words for sure.
Jeff
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So you decided to go with the 4-speed. :2thumbs: Looking good.
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Supr job, Rob! It's looking really sweet! Keep up the great work! :woo: :thumbsup: :ylsuper:
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Thanks guys, still a loooong way to go.
I love the look of a PISTOL GRIP in an E-Body. People ask me about my pistol grip all of the time. The only way I'll leave it an automatic (with my 518) is if I can disguise the 4 speed shifter to look like a manual but have the slap-stik guts down below. That way I have the "LOOK" of Muscle when parked, but have the Auto-Overdrive on the highway. Anything is possible with my welder.
Rob
The 4spd or any stick shift is the way to go!Looks like your making great progress Rob!From the pic's it looks like you got the correct rear floors did you get rid of the Goodmarks?
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Thanks guys, still a loooong way to go.
I love the look of a PISTOL GRIP in an E-Body. People ask me about my pistol grip all of the time. The only way I'll leave it an automatic (with my 518) is if I can disguise the 4 speed shifter to look like a manual but have the slap-stik guts down below. That way I have the "LOOK" of Muscle when parked, but have the Auto-Overdrive on the highway. Anything is possible with my welder.
Rob
I understand. Either way, I am sure it will be a great car to drive. :2thumbs:
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Worked 2 days to get the floor in. Drilled about 250 holes and hammered each one before welding it. Spent all day grinding each weld down. The whole front floor, Firewall, and firewall sides are now completely welded in.
Big difference between this:
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/7-20-08-7.jpg)
And THIS!
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/08-24-08-3.jpg)
Next up;
Inner fenders!
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/08-24-08-1.jpg)
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To someone like me that doesn't know the first thing about welding, that is AMAZING!! :eek2: :worshippy :wow:
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So Greg, After seeing all the resto threads and seeing what a welder can do, don't you want to learn how to weld? I started welding in a 6th grade summer school class, when I made a lamp.
It is easy to learn and Home Depot and Lowes sell Lincoln Mig welders.
Rob
Yeah, I want to learn and have considered buying a welder - I almost pulled the trigger on a cheap one at Harbor Freight one day - but for now, I need to spend my money on parts. As an aside, many years ago I wrote down a list of ten goals I wanted to accomplish in my life and learning to weld well enough to do what you're doing was one of them. The day will come... :thumbsup:
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Worked 2 days to get the floor in. Drilled about 250 holes and hammered each one before welding it.
Excuse my ignorance, but why hammer the holes?
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Excuse my ignorance, but why hammer the holes?
No such thing as a dumb question on C-C.com. When welding the thin floor layer to the thick frame layer, You have to use lots of heat to melt the frame below. If the floor metal isn't completely touching the frame metal all the way around it's hole, the top metal will burn away due to too much heat. With full contact, I can weld right on the frame and slowly fiil the hole in a circle, hitting the thin metal at the same time with little raised weld to grind down. Much of the floor had to be hammered to make it touch the frame. I also had to start in the middle and work toward the sides to not buckle the floor. The floor and firewall also had to be "metal worked" as they were mended together
Rob.
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Sitting at work, dreaming about what my car will look like. Had to fill my argon\co2 tank at lunch time, for welding tonight. $65 was the price for an 80 tank! It used to be $15.
Found this pic on ebay. This thing will look sweet cruising around St. Louis!
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/Ebay-pacecar.jpg)
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That does look way cool......................... 8)
Are you going to run the Keystones aswell ? :2thumbs:
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:bananasmi i understand totally, would be nice with a little personal touch from you :2thumbs:
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IT"S OFFICIAL This convertible will forever be a stick shift car.
I got it all cut out and welded in today.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/hump-1.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/hump-2.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/hump.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/09-01-08-1.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/09-01-08-2.jpg)
I also ordered my XV Motorsports Subframe connectors. I'm going to put them in at the same time I weld in my rear floors. It's logical that if I try to weld the rear floor in first, the angle will be off for the connector siince I can weld it in at a few different angles. If I put them in at the same time, they should go in with less grinding.
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:wow: nice job................................................. :grinyes: :2thumbs:
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:wow: nice job................................................. :grinyes: :2thumbs:
:iagree: Nice job Rob! :clapping:
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Looks good Rob, Have fun with the 4-speed :2thumbs:
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Rob, This car will look great when your done and the stick will make it a blast to drive around in.
Jeff
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(http://bestsmileys.com/signs15/18.gif) :clapping:
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what a beast......haha both you and the car
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I worked on the car over the weekend and finished welding up the front-end today.
First, I cut out my cowl I.D. stamping and welded it into my new cowl. I then welded the whole cowl to the dash support and firewall.
Pic of the ID after I wiped off the primer.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/09-09-08-01.jpg)
A friend said that I should patch this. It doesn't look too bad but the hinge area was rusted badly and so was the rear part around the shock tower. I decided to replace it with a new parts, since I've replaced so much already.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/09-09-08-01a.jpg)
While the old inner fender was in, I welded in the inner fender's firewall bracket.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/09-09-08-02.jpg)
I then bolted in 2 supports, so the radiator support wouldn't move and lose its original position.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/09-09-08-03.jpg)
I then drilled and air-chiseled out the old inner fender out.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/09-09-08-04.jpg)
I bolted on the front fender for proper positioning of the inner fender. I wanted to make sure that I was able to set the gaps in and out and side to side.
Welded it in, then ground down the welds.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/09-09-08-05.jpg)
Etch-primed then applied bondo over the welds.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/09-09-08-06.jpg)
Did the whole thing again on the driver's side.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/09-09-08-07.jpg)
After I welded up the holes in the windshield frame and etch primed it, I am now done with the front welding.
XV frame connectors should be here tomorrow, so I can finish welding in the rear floor pans.
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Way to go Rob! :clapping:
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:iagree: you are making some great progress :jumping:
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Got my XV frame connectors today and jacked them up to the floor. The gaps aren’t too bad. Nothing that a little grinding and welding wire won’t be able to fill. Good thick steel too.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/09-10-08-1.jpg)
Before I can weld them in, I have to fix the front of the driver’s side rear frame rail. It’s rusty and full of holes.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/09-10-08-2.jpg) (http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/09-10-08-3.jpg) (http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/09-10-08-4.jpg) (http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/09-10-08-6.jpg)
And replace some of this to get the strength back.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/09-10-08-7.jpg)
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WOw Rob, you have a lot more ambition to make everything perfect than I would. It is looking great. :2thumbs:
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I'm totally impressed with the work you've done on this car. If it wasn't a convertible I'm sure you would have passed on it. Your really doing some great work. I got a mig welder for Christmas last year and still haven't taken it out of the box. I'm getting ready to strip my coupe down and get my A500 installed and then strip it down for painting. Not too much to do as far as rust, trunk and floor pan and dutchman panel. I'll have a professional do that for me, but I think you've inspired me to take a shot at subframe connectors and maybe torque boxes. There is only one way to learn.....
Great work and great thread.
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Repaired my rear frame rail before I can weld on the connector. Save myself $345 by telling myself not to buy the whole frame rail at the Nationals last month.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/9-12-08-1-small.jpg)
Rusty holes on both sides. I’m going to fix it from the inside.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/9-12-08-2-small.jpg)
I cut a hole into the pan below the back seat to get to it. I cut too deep, but I’ll weld those up too. I went down the center of the frame tabs so when I weld the hole closed, the weld seam will be right over the frame tabs on each side.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/9-12-08-3-small.jpg)
I cut the inside piece out first so I can cut out and weld the outside, smaller piece in,
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/9-12-08-4-small.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/9-12-08-5-small.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/9-12-08-6-small.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/9-12-08-7-small.jpg)
I needed some steel. Lowes sells a 16 ga, 18”x24” plate for $17. I used half of it making these 2 parts. Made a piece out of cardboard then cut it out, in metal.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/9-12-08-8-small.jpg)
I welded this piece in very solidly with 3 big welds on each tab on the brackets that go to the front spring hanger.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/9-12-08-9-small.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/9-12-08-10-small.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/9-12-08-11-small.jpg)
Made another piece of cardboard, then cut it out of metal, then welded it in. I'm going to weld a piece of angle Iron in here to make it stronger. I sometimes jack up the car under this spot, and some of these start bending upward and bowing outward.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/9-12-08-12-small.jpg)
Since it is welded on the inside, I can grind on the outside to round it out without weakening the joints.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/9-12-08-13-small.jpg)
I still have to reweld the parking brake cable bracket back on and weld the floor back closed.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/9-12-08-14-small.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/09-18-08-2.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/09-18-08-1.jpg)
Almost time to install my rear floor pans and frame connectors.
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Robb, I'm beginning to wonder if there's even going to be any of the original metal left on this car. Great work! :2thumbs:
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Looks like your comming along great. Keep the pics flowing. It's nice to see the resto work in action.
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Rob
Looks good bro. You are really going to town. Good luck with the rest of the resto and please take some more pics if you get the time. Thanks.
Don
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At Monster Mopar Weekend, Sept 20, I picked up some fenders from board member Sprecks and a hood from a friend.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/09-20-08-1.jpg)
Last weekend, I built some Rolling wheels for the front. After pulling the K-frame, it looks like it might be bent. Good thing that a friend has a spare one for me.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/10-05-08-2.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/10-05-08-1.jpg)
I started working on the rusty driver's side wheelwell, at the front by the door.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/10-07-08-a.jpg)
I cut out the rot to start making a new piece.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/10-07-08-2.jpg)
First thing I did was to weld the support brace to the sides. There is a gap here that doesn't provide any support if the rocker were to rust badly.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/10-07-08-1.jpg)
I hammered out his piece to make a replacement, from a section of another rocker. It still needs a small patch in the middle but will take care of most of the rot after final welding. I added two drain holes under this section. If you know about convertibles, all of the water from rain or washing, comes down the roof and rear gutters and FLOODS this section with water. This is where verts rust badly.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/10-07-08-3.jpg)
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I always love reading your posting and enjoy the detail you give to explain what and why in each section, a lot of people could learn from your postings on how to make posting themselves and more so to become more capable body builders themselves. :swaying:
Your Challenger certainly looks to be in very capable hands and i would like to congratulate you on your build so far.
For all the Newbies or even resident or what ever members, this is a thread that is of the highest quality and should be looked at as a guide. Not trying to blow smoke, i just know what i like, and you my friend are coming along nicely.
Freaky color match up on the fenders and hood aswell :crazy: you said they were from different people right :clueless: :bananasmi
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:wow: for a first real restoration, i have to say you are doing an excellant job :2thumbs:
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:iagree: I agree with Kenny, Rob. :grinyes: Love reading the how and why of what you do! :thumbsup: Very informative and gives us a peek as to what is under all that sheet metal we see on the outside of the car! Feels like we're in shop class in high school! :crazy:
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Thanks Dudes! Makes you want to go home and cut your car apart doesn't it?
:scared: I know better than that. I don't have that much super glue and duct tape to fix that mess!!! :roflsmiley:
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Progress is looking great, Rob!!! :2thumbs:
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Hey Rob, That car has come a long way and looks great. Keep up the good work. :2thumbs:
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It's been cold so I've been doing little stuff like welding up my offset front spring hangers, painting my front-end parts, pedals and rear-end, I also found a 1-1/4" receiver on Craigslist, that I will adapt and hide under a flip down license plate holder. I need a hitch behind my vert to haul a custom fiderglass rear seat cover that I will build later. I also found some Rustoleum paint that looks like dark argent for my plastic center caps that I bought for $20 for all 4.
Locking the thread till I have some better pics to post.
Rob
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-15-0810.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-15-0812.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-15-0814.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-15-082.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-15-083.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-15-086.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-15-087.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-15-089.jpg)
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I put a want ad on Craigslist looking for a b-body rear end and got a reply for one the next day. It came out of a '68 Satellite, with a 3:23 open gear, for $50. I wanted to put my 15x10 Rallyes and 295-50s on it, just like my '70. So I had to offset my spring hangers and shackles just like I did my other set. The b-body rear is 2" narrower at the spring perches, so the springs have to go in 1" on each side. Cass, Dr.Diff, sells an offset kit for $185 so you might just want to buy one from him to save time. Many people ask about my big 10" wheels and fat tires and ask if I mini-tubbed it. I took a few pics building mine.
First, you need an extra set of front hangers to cut up. Cut off the sides.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-20-08-6.jpg)
Measure 1" towards the inside. Then you have to drill a couple of holes on the second bracket so that 2 of the mounting bolts go through both brackets. I drill a small hole then use a die grinder to move the hole to the exact location needed.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-20-08-7.jpg)
The top bracket has to have a couple of notches cut into it to allow changing of the bolts.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-20-08-8.jpg)
Here it is on the right, ready to weld.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-20-08-10.jpg)
Here it is in primer next to the finished one, on the left.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-20-08-1.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-20-08-2.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-20-08-3.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-20-08-4.jpg)
For My convertible, I had to cut the top corner at an angle to clear some metal at the bracket mount. I don't remember cutting the corner for my hardtop.
Now, when I install my b-body 8-3/4, it will drop right on to the springs without moving the perches and now have extra tire clearance.
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I did a little more fitting and welding. I moved to the rear.
The rear frame rails needed patching on all 4 sides.
Most looked like this:
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-03-09-1.jpg)
I cut off the bad, then made a patch, ready to weld in.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-03-09-2.jpg)
Welded and etch primed.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-03-09-3.jpg)
Passenger side after changing both sides, a 6" top piece and a 3x3 section of the rear rail mount. I had to change 4 pieces here.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-03-09-7b.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-03-09-8.jpg)
The driver’s side tie down bracket holes were rusted all the way around, so I cut it out and made a new piece.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-03-09-4.jpg)
Here it is after welding.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-03-09-5.jpg)
Next, I cut off the remaining trunk floor from the tail panel. I usually leave the gas tank braces in while fitting the 2-piece trunk floor to keep the pan from sagging in the middle. If you've ever put in the 2 piece pan, you know what I'm talking about. Not needed if you can afford the 1-piece pan.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-03-09-9.jpg)
The way that the trunk pan was attached at the tailpanel, was angled up and caught water, causing all of this rust.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-03-09-10.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-03-09-11.jpg)
I have the 2-piece trunk floor, so I don’t have a rear lip, so all of this will have to be replaced with new metal. I’ll cut this off and weld on a lower piece that goes all the way from the tail panel to the trunk pan, without the water catching overlapped gap.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-03-09-12a.jpg)
More when the weather warms up again.
Rob
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For the lower tail panel, I bent up a piece of 20 gauge steel to 90 degrees, . It was 5 inches wide and 55 inches long. The factory had an overlapping lip here that I am getting rid of. It held water and caused this piece to rust.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-07-09-1.jpg)
These holes hold the bumper filler and I need them for positioning. I will lay the new piece in like this.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-07-09-2-1.jpg)
First I laid the piece up against the inside of the panel. I drilled the 4 holes needed at the rear and bolted it to the tail panel using the 4 holes to hold it in place.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-07-09-3.jpg)
I then used an angle grinder with a cut-off disk to cut off the rusted section and also cut off the inner new section to match it. I cut around the 4 bolts to keep the panel in position. I will cut the 4 tabs off after welding the gaps, then weld that area.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-07-09-4.jpg)
This was one of the best tools I use. A 4-1/2” angle grinder from Harbor Freight, using the 4-1/2” metal cut-off disks.. It was on sale for $20. An electric cut-off tool runs circles around my air-powered cut-off tool when you need cutting power. It leaves a perfect gap for welding. If you weld without a gap, you will grind off your weld when finishing your metal.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-07-09-5.jpg)
Here it is ready to weld with the 4 tabs and bolts visible. If it is welded carefully on the inside, it will look like a seamless one piece part.(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-07-09-7.jpg)
Here is the before pic:
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-15-086.jpg)
More later, I have to take my dog out. It really is a hassle stopping to take pics and update this, but it will help me remember how much time I put into this car. I did a all this on my Cuda and didn’t take many pictures, so I forget how much work it is.
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Before welding my tail panel, I drilled the weld holes and painted the bottom and top of the rear cross member with Rust-oleum Cold Galvanizing Compound. It is 93% Zinc, it is cheaper than weld-thru primer, and I get it at Lowes home stores.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/01-09-09-5.jpg)
I welded everything around the 4 tabs, unbolted them, cut them off, and then finished welding that area.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/01-09-09-8.jpg)
This is a close up view of the inside and outside of the welded panel. The welds look huge but are tiny and I think that I might have hit my mig gun trigger about 400 times at 1 second intervals, to weld the entire panel in.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/01-09-09-3.jpg) (http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/01-09-09-4.jpg) (http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/01-09-09-11.jpg)
I used the cut off disk to reach in and grind the welds. If you can see behind the sparks, all that is left is a nice smooth weld filet. High build primer is all that is needed to fill the pits.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/01-09-09-7.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/01-09-09-12.jpg)
Locking the thread to keep it clean and avoid the “keep it up” posts.
Any questions, PM me……….Rob
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I bought some 2x3 .083 stock to put in some thru-the-floor subframe connectors. Cost me $30 for the pair. I was thinking that my convertible needs to be stiff and the XV connectors were too hard to put in. A friend stopped by and talked me into not cutting my new floors in case that I have to sell it one day. I listened……
Here are the 2 side by side. You can see why the 2x3 is stronger. If this was a race car, I would go 2x3.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-24-09-0.jpg)
I held one up to the floor to check for fit.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-24-09-1.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-24-09-2.jpg)
I had to peel down the torque box and slice a section and bend it down to fit around the front spring bracket. This piece was later bent up and around then welded to that bracket. The gap closes up as I match the floor.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-24-09-3.jpg)
If you have a contour gauge, it helps to get an accurate copy of the floor. Look how the bottom of the guage also takes the shape of the floor.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-24-09-4.jpg)
This helps transfer a pattern but not really needed.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-24-09-15.jpg)
Here it is marked for grinding. I just kept going side-to-side, marking where it hit, then grinding, then doing it all over again. I am on a creeper, no rotissery. Must have fitted this thing about 15 to 20 times
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-24-09-6.jpg)
Here it is ready for welding.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-24-09-7.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-24-09-8.jpg)
I hate welding upside down! It would have looked better if I was sitting on a stool. Now I have to grind my crappy welds.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-24-09-9.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-24-09-12.jpg)
Nice and level with the rear frame, NOTHING hanging down! You can see where I welded the torque box to the bottom.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-24-09-13.jpg)
Took about 8 hours for the one side. Well worth the effort! No holes in my floor!
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-24-09-14.jpg)
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Had a warm day, so I spent it grinding and welding in my second frame connector. These things really take a long time to put in. I welded them in right next to the torsion bar holes. I watched a show called "Chop, Cut, Rebuild" and on their Cuda, they welded them in a few inches away from the torsion bars. If I would have done that, they would have covered the brake and fuel line holes. They don't come with directions, so I guess you put them in where you want them.
Now that they are in, I would say go for it and put in the XV Motorsport's connectors. Took me about a day for each one, so if have more time than money like me right now, get these.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/02-07-09-1.jpg)
Nice and flush at the torque boxes.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/02-07-09-2.jpg)
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Here is the trailer hitch that I got on Craigslist for $20. I will need it to pull a small trailer to hold the custom fiberglass rear cover that I will build to make the vert look like a 2-seater. I wanted to hide it behind a flip down license plate but it looks like it might hit my mufflers or tips. The sides unbolt so I can make new ones that mach my frame.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-05-09-1.jpg)
Took my complete dash apart and noticed the wiring was cut all apart to bypass bad primary wires, a real butcher job..
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-05-09-3.jpg)
My frame was very rusty, so I sandblasted it.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-05-09-4.jpg)
My A/C vents were so brittle that they broke, so if anyone has any to sell let me know.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-05-09-5.jpg)
Harbor Freight has a 100% Satisfaction guarantee, so I took a bunch of tools back and got a store credit for $120, had a coupon for 20% off, so I got this for about $80.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-05-09-2.jpg)
I’ve been a glass beading M-Fer lately and did some of my small parts, then painting them in "cast blast" color. Front suspension was very rusty too.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-05-09-6.jpg)
After fitting my back bumper, I welded in half of my trunk floor after welding in the left top tank brace. This will strengthen the rear frame rail before I install my quarter skin. After grinding, a light coat of bondo was spread to smooth out the welds. The spot welds will all be faked after the filler primer is sprayed on. Fishn4Cuda (Tony) showed me how to dip a pencil eraser into the wet primer to create those.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-05-09-7.jpg)
Perfect weather for working in the garage!
Locking thread to keep it clean, PM me for any questions...... Rob
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Started work on the rusty gutter.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-07-09-1.jpg)
Got this piece from Al for $20. THANKS ALAN LEMON!
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-07-09-2.jpg)
Laid it over the bad section to mark it.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-07-09-3.jpg)
Started cutting a little at a time to let it fit all the way into the opening.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-07-09-4.jpg)
Installed the decklid to set the final gap that I wanted.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-07-09-6.jpg)
Sandblasted the gutter and it’s underside to etch prime it, then screwed it into place.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-07-09-7.jpg)
Checking gap, then cutting the gap to fill with weld.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-07-09-8.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-07-09-9.jpg)
Took my time with little welds, using the air compressor to blow the heat away before moving to another area. Lots of welds to go.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-07-09-10.jpg)
Ground down the welds and etch primed. Also had to weld a patch on top after melting out the body solder. There was about ½” of LEAD in this area to fill a big dimple. I worked it with a hammer and will now only require a thin coat of bondo.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-07-09-11.jpg)
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Sorry if this is slow to load. I have too many pics on each page.
Yesterday, I wanted to tackle this:
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-19-09-0.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-19-09-1.jpg)
So I made a piece out of heavy paper in the shapes that I needed:
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-19-09-2.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-19-09-3.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-19-09-4.jpg)
I have a bunch of 14 gauge plates that I cut these out of. Why use thinner 16 to 22 gauge, if you can use 14? Added strength!
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-19-09-5.jpg)
Cut off the old and started tacking the new, then welding all around:
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-19-09-6.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-19-09-7.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-19-09-8.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-19-09-9.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-19-09-10.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-19-09-11.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-19-09-12.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-19-09-13.jpg)
Started to fit the outer WheelHouse, since it goes on under the section that closes over the hole. Lots of trimming needed for a convertible since it only uses the outside edge in front.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-19-09-15.jpg)
I used the old rusty part to trim my new part. Guess what? The CONVERTIBLES USE A SMALLER ONE. I had to cut mine in the center to shorten it to fit.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-19-09-16.jpg)
I don’t know if the full quarters use thicker metal but my “skin” measures .033” and my old quarter thickness was .045”
More to come…..
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Clamped on the quarter skin, to then match the inner fender to it. That way the quarter doesn't deform getting tweaked to match it. The only way to get it all to fit is put it together before doing any welding.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-20-09-0.jpg)
I had to do more trimming and hammering to make it fit. I screwed it in to hold it. The screws will all be replaced with spot welds later. You can see the cut that I had to make to shorten it. This will be cut then butt welded later also.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-20-09-1.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-20-09-2.jpg)
I clamped on the trunk extension before any welding to make sure everything fits. Thank god for vice grips. 7 in this pic alone and 3 not seen on top.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-20-09-3.jpg)
sorry for the big pics.....
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Didn't take any close-ups, Didn't want to be called a hack, but I sandblasted this area, welded in new thicker metal to make this stronger than stock, then etch primed and POR-15ed and Sprayed truck bed liner spray in this area. This area gets very wet and needs to be completely sealed to survive. I also rebuilt-hacked the rear corner of the tail panel and welded everything you see here. I needed a rear jack mount and had to make one. I'm ready to put on my quarter skin.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/4-19-04-1a.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/4-19-04-2.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/4-19-04-3.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/4-19-04-4.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/4-19-04-5.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/4-19-04-6.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/4-19-04-7.jpg)
I put in my b-body rear and offset springs to trial fit my 15x10s and 295/50s, before I put on my quarter and they fit very well and look good.
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If I had money, I would install 2 new quarters, trunk gutters and a tail panel, so I’m back to hacking………
Trying to fix the rear gutters before I put on my quarter skins. This was patched with brass, sometime in it’s past. This is what I’m starting with:
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-14-09-1.jpg) (http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-14-09-2.jpg)
Got this from a friend for $20. It is the wrong year but has 2 good gutter ends on it.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-14-09-3.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-14-09-4.jpg) (http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-14-09-5.jpg)
Had to trim both parts till they fit together where I wanted it. It took days to get it close enough to butt clamp together
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-14-09-6.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-14-09-7.jpg)
Cut off the tail panel, trimmed a bit more, then started laying down the tack welds.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-14-09-8.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-28-09-4.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-28-09-1.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-28-09-2.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-28-09-3.jpg)
All tacked, then welded up, now time to grind.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-14-09-9.jpg) (http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-14-09-10.jpg)
Ground down, ready for etch primer and bondo.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-14-09-11.jpg)
Next up; Left quarter skin
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Spent all weekend in the left quarter. It was hard. I wish that I had put a whole NEW quarter on, but that is more money. Here it is all welded and ground down. To get to here was HARD!
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-31-09-1.jpg)
Here it is with the 1st layer of short hair Bondo glass. You have to use this stuff as a first coat under regular filler to make it waterproof.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-31-09-2.jpg)
The reason why the top of the quarter is open after I welded it up 2 months ago is because the new tail section was somehow wider that than what I had on the car. I had to make the car match the factory piece. Oh well more welding to do. I'm starting to hate welding and grinding.
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Decided to paint the engine compartment to put my front suspension, back in. Painted inside the cowl too with a brush and a quart of Zero-Rust. To anyone that removes the cowl, Paint the insides before you install it. What a mess.
I think I'll put the engine and tranny in to get this thing running again.
New blackberry cell phone doesn't show the nice ORANGE color.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/07-16-09-2.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/07-16-09-3.jpg)
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I've been working on putting everything together to see what I am missing for the upcoming Mopar Nationals.
I installed the K-frame with new bushings, ball joints and brakes. The caliper rebuild kits cost $2.00 each, a lot cheaper than new calipers.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/07-01-09-1.jpg)
Painted the pedals, ane e-brake and installed them along with the master cylinder and booster.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/07-01-09-3.jpg)
Got my $29 tilt column on ebay and modified it to fit the challenger. I took off the rubber seal on the bottom then installed it on the chally's column mount, Slid on like it was made for it. I cut the upper mount off, then narrowed it's sides by cutting them off and rewelding, then welded it about an inch higher back on the column.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/07-01-09-2.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/07-01-09-4.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/07-01-09-5.jpg)
After painting it, here it is.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/07-01-09-6.jpg)
Now installed
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/08-01-09-8.jpg)
Cordoba columns come with a wiring adapter that plugs right into your stock wiring harness for the ignition switch and turn signals.
Pics of adapter harnesses and ends on ign switch and turn signal plugs.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/TECH/tilt-7.jpg) (http://s363.photobucket.com/user/shelbydoggs/media/TECH/tilt-7.jpg.html)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/TECH/tilt-10.jpg) (http://s363.photobucket.com/user/shelbydoggs/media/TECH/tilt-10.jpg.html)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/TECH/tilt-3.jpg) (http://s363.photobucket.com/user/shelbydoggs/media/TECH/tilt-3.jpg.html)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/TECH/tilt-2.jpg) (http://s363.photobucket.com/user/shelbydoggs/media/TECH/tilt-2.jpg.html)
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Maybe this will help anyone converting a tilt column for their e-body.
Been working on getting the tilt column connected to the steering box. After shortening the shaft below the rag joint, I sandblasted and painted it all.
It's taking so long because everything going back in the car has to be blasted, primed, then painted.
One of these shafts came out of a Mopar truck so I had to take out about 6” of shaft then weld it back on the coupler base. The white one on the right will have to be shortened about 1-1/2” for the Cuda. I don’t know what it came off of but it was a Mopar also. The top already has a hole for the coupler pin, so I used my original coupler and it's inside parts.
Here are all of the parts ready for assembly
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/08-18-09-1.jpg)
Here it is assembled.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/08-18-09-2.jpg)
And Here it is installed.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/08-18-09-3.jpg)
I’ve been slow at work. So I’m testing my Holley Commander 950 controller, that will run my fuel injection setup for this car. I bought 2 used setups from the paper for $400 and one from Craigslist for $500. Holley recently came out with a $300 WideBand upgrade kit and a guy on Chevytalk.org came out with a slick self-tuning software for it. I was going to use my Megasquirt controller, but will try these first because of the self tuning program.
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I work on something on this car everyday, but it is a never ending. I tore my engine down to find it had a bad main bearing journal, but luckily a friend gave me his spare crank. I ordered a complete re-ring, bearing and gasket kit off of Ebay for $93 on Thursday, so I'll be putting it together soon.
Today, I spent all day cleaning and mounting my heater-A/C housing, then drilling and installing a bunch of engine compartment parts to get everything positioned. I also started installing the fuel injection computer and wiring harness. The area between the cowl drain and the gas pedal is where I drilled the hole for the wiring harness. It is installed here in my other car too. It is the only area where a hole can be drilled to not interfere with other parts. The big wiring harness here is all of the stuff that belongs just to the EFI.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/I09-06-09-1.jpg)
This picture shows the custom Mopar/GM ECU I made for the EFI computer to control my ignition timing. The big plug goes to the pickup and coil as usual but the connector on the left goes to the computer.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/09-06-09-3.jpg)
I'm trying to patch together the wiring harnesses now. They are a mess with wires spliced all over the place. (but I can fix it)
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I picked up a whole roll of 3/8 and 5/16 steel line at Mopar Nationals for $10.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/09-22-09-3.jpg)
Ran my EFI 3/8 fuel line and filter. It comes up the firewall then around the A/C blower motor, then gets a double flare and steel fitting into a high pressure filter.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/09-22-09-4.jpg)
I will install the pump just like in my R/T, next to the frame rail and outside of the inner wheelhouse. I'll just use the old 5/16 line as my return line. It's been working since I installed it in '04. If the pump goes out, you pull off the right rear and change it. It gets clamped under the sway bar bracket bolts.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/EFI/pump-2.jpg)
Took about 3 weeks to clean this dirty small block up. I used a combination of gasoline, kerosene, the quarter car wash, brake cleaner, simple green, etc. It was VERY DIRTY inside and out. Installed my $93 Ebay Ring and bearing rebuild kit, a different crank, and a new $25 oil pump from Oreillys. I had an Edelbrock Torker in my shed, so the 2 barrel is getting trashed. It is painted orange too, to hide it. (it's an early 71 so it's orange) (blue looks so low performance)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-22-09-1.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-22-09-2.jpg)
Should be bolting on the flywheel,clutch, bell and trans then firing it up soon.
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Degreased my tranny with Easy-Off and paint remover as someone had painted it red. Had to scrub every inch with a tooth brushed sized wire brush. I had this behind my 440 before I went to the 833 overdrive. I then painted it a dark-cast grey color
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/10-14-09-1.jpg)
I registered this number with the Hamtramck Registry, since it isn't my VIN. I don't know what the other numbers are. Bought it from a kid around '83. Is it yours?
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/10-14-09-2.jpg)
Since I was putting it behind a small block, I had to have the hole in the bellhousing bored out to the 4.801" tran's front bearing retainer's diameter. At this size, I can also use my spare 833 overdrive in the future. Labor was only $30 to get it done. Here is a pic of the painted bellhousing, trans, and shifter, bolted together. I could not use a bronze bearing because the hole was too small and it broke while trying to install it. I then used a roller pilot bearing from Oreilly Auto Parts for $12.00, Part number FC69907 for a '92 Dakota with a 318.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/10-14-09-3.jpg)
Installed and bolted in.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/10-14-09-4.jpg)
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Had an extra week off between Christmas and New-Years so I spent a lot of time in the garage.
Been 15 degrees outside. A friend gave me an old apartment electric furnace that I took the "A" coil out of and reworked the sheet matal to make a small electric heater. It's about half it's original height. I wired it to a dryer cord from Lowes and wired in a 220 30 amp circuit. Put a thermostat on the wall. Work great!
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-03-10-1.jpg)
I found this in the paper Classifieds for $400.!! a few years ago. It's about a $1100 new. I guess he couldn't sell it for $750. I found a 4bbl 900cfm throttle body at a swap meet for $15. I found another one for the Cuda on Craigslistfor $500 that came with a Throttle body. Have to jump on these.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-03-10-2.jpg)
I wanted the computer to control timing, so I made this with a GM 8-pin module look like a Mopar ECU. The plug on top still goes to the coil, power and distributor The way I wired it, I can plug in a stock ECU and still get spark.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-03-10-3.jpg)
I have to install a bung hole for the wideband O2 sensor so I bought a couple of non-foulers, cut them off, then welded them on. You can also by an 18mm nut to weld on but these are 1/2 the price.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-03-10-4.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-03-10-5.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-03-10-6.jpg)
You have to run a return line for this system so I modified a new 3/8 pickup by removing the 1/4" return line and soldering on a piece of 5/16 brake line. Old fuel line is now a return line.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-03-10-7.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-03-10-8.jpg)
Found a hall effect distributor in an early 90s Dodge truck at the Junk yard. I had to grind down one of the vanes to make all 8 the same width. I will use this later but I have it running now with a standard non-advance, electronic-Mopar lean burn distributor.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-03-10-9.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-03-10-10.jpg)
Had to bend up a bracket to mount the high pressure pump. It mounts next to the sway bar bracket and hooks to the new 3/8 brake line I ran from the tank all the way up to the firewall.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-03-10-11.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-03-10-12.jpg)
Here it is all mounted after I programmed it and fired it up and watched it on the laptop warm up.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-03-10-14.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-03-10-15.jpg)
Moved on to the last MAJOR section, The Right quarter. Out of all of the parts, it was the biggest pain in the butt trying to get the outer wheel house and wheel lip to mate together PERFECTLY. I wanted the inner lip to have full contact all the way around. In a convertible, the whole top half is thrown away since it is covered with a cap to allow the top to fit into the well. I had to cut it into sectons the put it back together.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-03-10-17.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-03-10-18.jpg)
Had to repair the rocker and front wheel house before I could move on. Pics don't show the top pieces that I also welded on.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-03-10-19.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-03-10-20.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-03-10-21.jpg)
I also welded in the right half of the trunk floor and the tank braces. I painted under the trunk floor with truck bed liner and mounted the tank.
Here is a pic of the quarter screwed on. Must have installed and removed this thing at least 30 times and it still isn't welded yet. If you think quarter panels are easy, think again. I coated inside the panels with Zero-Rust and can only get to some parts when it is open. I did the other side with POR-15 so this will be my test. Remember, convertibles dump most of the rear roof water down into a gutter that empties into the 1/4 window's pockets. This area has to have all metal coated very well.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-03-10-22.jpg)
Slowly getting it done...........
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Finished welding on the right quarter Panel, after painting the backside, outer wheelhouse and trunk exstension with 2 coats of Zero-Rust and one coat of truck bed lined.
Sandblasted and painted the rear drums and backing plates and bent up the new axle brake lines. Installed new brake shoes and bled the brakes.
I wanted to finish working on the rear end but had to install the sway bar brackets but first I had some welding to do. Like in my Challenger R/T, I always move the springs in 1-1/4” then swap out the e-body width housing and use a 70’s b-body rear housing to fit my 15x10” Rallyes and my 295x50 tires. I added sway bars to it and this Vert already has one. Moving the springs in requires modifying the sway bar mounting plates to also “adjust the hole 1-1/4” towards the wheel. Not doing so will angle the sway bar links instead of pointing straight up and down.
Here’s how I do it:
Here are the stock plates.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-16-10-0.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-16-10-1.jpg)
I slice down the sides with a cut-off wheel.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-16-10-2.jpg)
Bend out the sides.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-16-10-3.jpg)
Make a piece out of cardboard to fit in the holes, transfer it to metal plate, then welded them in front and back.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-16-10-4.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-16-10-5.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-16-10-6.jpg)
Ground down, etch primed then painted.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-16-10-7.jpg)
Finished product, READY TO INSTALL!
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/01-16-10-9.jpg)
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I've been working in the basement to put my wiring together.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/02-21-10-1.jpg)
I pulled all of my dash harnesses out of 2 basements and 2 attics to lay everything out and see what I have. I found eight of them, from cars I parted out 25 years ago. Four of the eight had burned up bulkhead connectors and or the red and black wires from the alternator and battery. These wires always burned up on me AT NIGHT, so HEADLIGHT RELAYS are a MUST ADD part! Also adding a direct wire from battery to alternator directly bypasses the male-female connectors and doubles the contact area for supply voltage to the interior. Ammeter no longer works so a voltmeter has to be installed.
Pic of all of my dash harnesses:
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/02-21-10-2.jpg)
After sorting everything out, I'm rebuilding my factory one. I wire tied it all together so nothing was unplugged. It was a mess with cut and taped up wires all over the place. Someone hacked it up to get it running. Good thing that wiring doesn't scare me. It was a fully loaded one with PW, P-Top, A/C, 3 speaker, Am/FM, and the light group. I'm building a couple of loaded spares since it is all out right now and it lloks like I have 2 or more of everything except the convertible stuff.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/02-21-10-3.jpg)
For the car, I put together a small bulkhead connector and fuse box, so that I can run the car without a dash. All it has is ignition, start circuit, and oil pressure light. It runs my Holley Fuel injection unit through 2 wires. This makes it easier driving it around to move it and when I take it to the paint shop.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/02-21-10-4.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/02-21-10-6.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/02-21-10-5.jpg)
I also welded up some brackets to fit these in for my wife's 'cuda. I like sitting in these. They just FEEL right.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/seats.jpg)
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Lots of pics in my thread. I hope most of you have a fast broadband connection!
Been working on the body.
I fitted the front valance, front spoiler and grill to count the number of fasteners and clips I needed from the body supply store.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/04-04-10-1.jpg)
I welded up 2 extra holes each side and moved a hole to fit the engine call outs to where I wanted them.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/04-04-10-2.jpg)
I fitted the rear valance and noticed the HUGE gaps. So I had to fix it.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/04-04-10-4.jpg)
I had to cut off the side off of the lower ¼ that meets the valance.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/04-04-10-5.jpg)
Installed valance to cut the correct angle with the cut off wheel.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/04-04-10-6.jpg)
Hammered the old piece to match the trunk extension and punched the holes for welding.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/04-04-10-8.jpg)
Welded it back on.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/04-04-10-9.jpg)
Used the grinder to clean it up.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/04-04-10-10.jpg)
Installed the valance to check fit.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/04-04-10-11.jpg)
Etch primed it and checked fit. My gap is tight so I have to slide it over a little to get it back.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/04-04-10-12.jpg)
Installed my wavy trunk lid. It was dipped then etch primed.
I had to put a skim coat of bondo thinned with fiberglass resin to cover the whole thing.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/04-04-10-13.jpg)
Finished the whole back end smooth enough for the spray filler. Spots are etch primer over the bare metal.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/04-04-10-14.jpg)
I bought a gallon of Clausen’s Rust Defender on Ebay but it was damaged by UPS during delivery, then destroyed. My money was refunded and had to settle for a gallon of Evercoat Feather Fill purchased locally. Feather Fill can be sprayed over etch primer but I wanted the Rust Defender because it can be sprayed over bare metal and that’s what they use on Spike TV’s Power Block shows. It is a Spray filler that you mix with hardener that I'll spray with my gun that has a 2.5 mm tip. After that more block sanding.
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Fitted all on my parts to see what I needed to buy.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-11-10-8.jpg)
Decided to read the paper:
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-11-10-10.jpg)
Painted my muffler/tip hangers:
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-11-10-2.jpg)
Did a little painting then installed my gas tank for the LAST TIME!
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-11-10-9.jpg)
"thinking about cloning a "barn find Pace Car"
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Haven't updated in a while. I ordered 2 new top cylinders for Ebay and have my frame going up and down with a switch now. I also bought a new rear glass window from Ebay too. I just need to order the rest of the white top and pads to install it on the frame.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-27-10-1.jpg)
I really need to get this thing painted and on the road. I've been too busy driving the other car to car shows and the 2010 Power Tour.
I bought a gauge cluster from a friend for $10, out of a 98 Dodge van. It has a voltmeter that points to the right and swings up from the down position. This would be perfect for my voltmeter conversion. I can rotate it downward and install it where the ammeter is. Some of those other companies install voltmeters but they swing to the left, which won't look right in my eye. Here is the meter. it will have to be trimmed down. I will leave it saying "'ALT" and not change it to volt.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/gauge-1.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/gauge-2.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/gauge-3.jpg)
Before it fits it will have to bet trimmed down and a hole drilled.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/gauge-4.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/gauge-5.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/gauge-6.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/gauge-7.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/gauge-8.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/gauge-9.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/gauge-10.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/gauge-11.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/gauge-12.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/gauge-13.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/gauge-14.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/gauge-15.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/gauge-16.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/gauge-17.jpg)
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I now have the full exhaust and old tips now installed. I'm saving the new mufflers and tips for a newer bigger exhaust system later. I just want to get this thing painted and possibly get it to a car show before this year ends. I patched another driver's door and worked the bondo, so its ready.
Only have one part left to weld before I final block it then send it off. Don't know why it took so long to get to this part.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/door-jam-1.jpg)
It was full of holes.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/door-jam-2.jpg)
Had to make it out fo 3 pieces to get the complex shape. Left a gap to fill with weld wire.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/door-jam-3.jpg)
Stitch welded the corner then welded the inside parts from the bottom, then ground it down.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/door-jam-4.jpg)
Didn't want to piss off the neighbors by doing anymore welding and grinding after 10 PM so I'll weld it later after I drill some plug holes.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/door-jam-5.jpg)
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Welded in the part, threw on some 2k primer then threw some orange on it.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/07-28-10-1.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/07-28-10-2.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/07-28-10-3.jpg)
Painted the driver's side door and inside fender.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/07-28-10-4.jpg)
Cheap cell phone camera makes my colors look faded. The Color really looks like my trunk below.
Very nice orange color.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-11-10-9.jpg)
The 25% Year One discount code "ebody" is awesome. Makes the prices more reasonable compared to the other vendors. I actually bought my conv. top, well liner, boot cover and some other stuff from them and had never ordered from them before.
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Working on the other side now,
Taking the dings out of the door.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/08-02-10-1.jpg)
Used the stud gun.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/08-02-10-2.jpg)
I have chrome mirrors so this car will have painted mirrors so I used my $8 heat gun to geat up the glue, carefully pried out the mirror, then it popped right off. You can now see that it was only glued on these 4 corners.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/08-02-10-3.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/08-02-10-4.jpg)
I ground down the pits then sandblasted them inside and out then etch-primed them. All I need now is a little filler for the tiny pits, then another coat of primer.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/08-02-10-5.jpg)
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So I got as far as I cared to with the blocking, sanding and the dust. I sparayed another layer of Feather Fill then decided that I had enough and need to get this thing painted soon to get it ready for the 2011 Power Tour. I found a friend of a friend that will do the final blocking and primer. I told him to get it smooth enough because it is going straight to MAACO when I pick it up. He used to teach Body Repair so I know it is in good hands.
I found a tow dolly in Craigslist for $300. The ramps are on the front bar. This saves me th3 $60 to rent a U-Haul dolly every time I need it. I towed the car to his place yesterday and he promised to have it done in 2 to 3 weeks, or sooner.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/11-21-10-1.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/11-21-10-2.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/11-21-10-3.jpg)
More updates soon!
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Drove out to see the car today. It is in good hands and quickly getting smoothed out. We discussed how "no matter how much I did to weld this thing back together, car guys will still pick at every little thing including wavy body work". Scott has a good eye and sensitive hand.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-01-10-1.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-01-10-2.jpg)
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Got some "in primer" pics from Scott today.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-06-10-1.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-06-10-2.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-06-10-3.jpg)
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Took the car to Maaco last night. This car is getting the $499 polyurethane paint job and I'm paying $109 for the clear coat. The owner says that when they start on it Monday, it could be ready as soon as the middle of the week. That's a 3 day turn around!
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/12-10-10-1.jpg)
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I went by Maaco today, just in time to watch Bud Stansberry seal then paint my car. Used one cell phone to take all of these pics, the other to take a video of the paint going on. Lots of pics and may take long to download.
Total Paid:
$499 Urethane Paint Job, included the sealer
$109 Clear coat
$100 to paint the door jambs
$100 to paint inside the trunk lid and hood
$30 shop supplies
$25 Tax
Bud spaying the sealer;
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-16-10-1.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-16-10-2.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-16-10-3.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-16-10-4.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-16-10-5.jpg)
Mixing up the orange paint.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-16-10-6.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-16-10-7.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-16-10-8.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-16-10-9.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-16-10-10.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-16-10-11.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-16-10-12.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-16-10-13.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-16-10-14.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-16-10-15.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-16-10-16.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-16-10-17.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-16-10-19.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-16-10-20.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-16-10-21.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-16-10-22.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-16-10-23.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-16-10-24.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-16-10-25.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-16-10-26.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-16-10-27.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-16-10-28.jpg)
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Coming home with the car on the dolly, I had a slight mishap with the right front fender. I'll have to get the corner hammered out then repainted before I start driving it all over. I'll show the corner in the future, or maybe not. It could have been LOTS worse.
I put on my rear wheels, rear bumber and tail lights.
Last night was warm enough to do this:
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-3010-1.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-3010-3.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-3010-4.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-3010-6.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/12-3010-8.jpg)
Still have to do the other side. The vinyl was very thick and laid out great.
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There was a little snow that came through here so instead of spending too much time heating my cold garage,
I spent time in the basement putting a dash together. My car was coded for an AM/FM stereo,
but sometime along the way, someone threw in an AM radio. I had an old AM/FM from if I remember correctly, a Monaco stereo
that was a close match, so I installed it with my AM knobs.
I installed a better pad, 3 new speakers, a glove compartment box I wired in my modified cluster with a voltmeter then powered everything up to test all the bulbs, switches an stereo. Everything works. Stereo sounds good!
Pics look a little messy but better than trying to install this laying on my back.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/02-03-11-1.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/02-03-11-2.jpg)
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Today was a nice warm day so I spent the day painting, then installing my taillights.
The paint was faded and think the color should be light argent silver. But I like the dark argent color better., I used the dark argent looking Rust-o-leum Multi texture paint that I used for my plastic rallye center caps. I’ll paint the grill with the same color. I’ve seen the black that R/Ts use and I don’t like the way it makes them look.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/02-12-11-1.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/02-12-11-2.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/02-12-11-3.jpg)
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Painted the floor with 2 coats of truck bed liner over my 2 coats of POR-15 today.
Getting it ready for the water that I don't plan on getting into the car.
Installed my $15 Ebay Grant steering wheel on my tilt column last week
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/02-19-11-1.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/02-19-11-2.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/02-19-11-3.jpg)
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Picked up this cheap heat barrier called "Reflectix" from Ace Hardware a few years ago after reading another thread here. I think it was around $35. It is like small bubble wrap lined front and back with an aluminum like plastic layer. I also had a roll of 4" wide aluminum tape I got free from somewhere...I can't remember. This size had enough to do the whole floor with some left over. Now I can get dash installed.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/03-01-11-1.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/03-01-11-2.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/03-01-11-3.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/03-01-11-4.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-03-11-1.jpg)
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Installed my pre-wired dash last week.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/dash.jpg)
I modified my headlight harness to include my custom headlight relays and circuit breakers. I always wire in a diode across the relay coils to kill any induced voltage (spark) when the fields collapse, when turning off the relays. Remember, I have a fuel injection computer on board and I don't want any strange spikes resetting it. A relay is like a tiny coil.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/literlay.jpg)
Installed my grill, headlight bezels, headlights and bumper. I wasn't going to put on the front license bracket on but with the front bumper having a cut-out for it, I'll use a front plate with something Mopar on it.
I bought these 4 headlights with H4 bulbs on Ebay for $25 about 3 years back. I found out why they were so cheap. I had to grind off the rear plastic alignment tabs because they were in the wrong place. I also had to modify the stainless rings that fit around the glass because the headlight diameter was a little bigger that a stock headlight.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/grill-1.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/grill-2.jpg)
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My top pump’s reservoir was leaking so I got a later model pump out of a car in a junk yard. Can’t remember what I got it out of but it was newer and had a relay that reverses the motor polarity by just applying power to one of two small wires. Power is supplied by one big wire. This will keep the high current out of my dash’s power top switch. The motor also just has one big winding and not two separate small windings like the stock pump’s motor. Here is a pic of the pump, relay and cylinders while I was cycling the cylinders to get the air out and top off the reservoir. Going to try to install my top tomorrow.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/03-15-11-1.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/03-15-11-2.jpg)
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I took a day off of work, hoping to get my convertible top and window installed. It didn't happen that day.
I first installed my pump, cylinders, and Top frame assembly.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-17-11-2.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-17-11-1.jpg)
First thing is to find the center of the rear bow and mark it, to center the rear window.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-17-11-3.jpg)
I dug out the old tack strip to make way for the new one.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-17-11-4.jpg)
Took off the weather stripping to get to the phillips screws that hold the channel over the top's sides then unscrewed the top cables.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-17-11-5.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-17-11-6.jpg)
Worked my way forward and took off the rear bow to paint it and prep it for a new tack strip.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-17-11-7.jpg)
Got to the front and found a problem, RUST where the pads have to screw down. Someone had Duct taped the pads to the header, which only help it rust more.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-17-11-8.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-17-11-9.jpg)
Pulled the front header off to repair it.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-17-11-10.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-17-11-11.jpg)
Started making a new part out of 16 ga, with a big hammer and a cutoff wheel. I'll have to make the rest of it when it warms up a little.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-17-11-14.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-17-11-15.jpg)
I decided to hook up and test my used alarm system. I got it for free without remotes. Found a used remote on Ebay for $43. This alarm is a 2-way system that pages my remote up to a mile away under line-of sight conditions. This would work for me when I'm in a hotel room and my car is in a parking lot. It is a Clifford Matrix 2.5x unit with a backup battery in case they disconnect the main battery. It will also lock/unlock my door lock actuators and pop my trunk. It's LCD display shows me if a door, trunk or hood is open.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/03-17-11-16.jpg)
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I wanted to put my alarm system in but the long range antenna gets taped to the windshield behind the mirror. So, last night was a good time to put my winshield in. It was a new, non-tinted glass with a few scratches but I found it for $100 on Craigslist. I used 3/8" Urethane ribbon to stick it.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/04-02-03-1.jpg)
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Fixed the convertible top header driver's side:
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/04-18-11-1.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/04-18-11-2.jpg)
Then repaired the passenger side: These corners are important to keep the top pads tight and pull mid and rear bows as the top closes.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/04-18-11-3.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/04-18-11-4.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/04-18-11-5.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/04-18-11-6.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/04-18-11-7.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/04-18-11-8.jpg)
I hid and wired the alarm and then attached the alarm's antenna to the windshield
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/04-18-11-9.jpg)
Remote is a 2-way and shows me if the door, trunk or hood is open, and beeps or vibrates when the alarm goes off.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/04-18-11-9a.jpg)
Installed actuators hooked to my alarm system, using this diagram. A door actuator kit can be bought on Ebay for less than $20.
I found mine in a junk yard car for $1 each. The actuator rod attaches to the lock rod with this pictured metal block and allen lock screws. You can also use this on a '70 door latch because it locks the doors AFTER you close them, when you arm the system. No more keys scratching your paint.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/Electronics/Powerwindowrelays.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/04-18-11-10.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/04-18-11-11.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/04-18-11-12.jpg)
Installed a 4 fuse trunk fusebox and relay for the trunk release. It is hidden over the rear wheelwell. The fuses protect my trunk release and the circuit breaker protects and powers my power top motor.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/04-18-11-15.jpg)
I always install a cig-lighter/power plug in my trunk to power a compressor, work light or light my cigs. I also installed an on/off switch for my trunk light so I can turnit off when the trunk is open.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/04-18-11-14.jpg)
Installed hood pins because Ilike the way they look.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/04-18-11-16.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/04-18-11-17.jpg)
I have to put my windows in before I install and adjust the top, so that is next.
I ordered a white hood blackout so the hood will match the lettering and interior. Black won't match anything.
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I decided that the hood should match the white pace car decals so I added a white "blackout"on it last night. It will break up some of the orange.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/04-22-11-2.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/04-22-11-3.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/04-22-11-4.jpg)
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I found some decals on the web to put on my windshield. I modified them a little and printed them out. Since I can't print white, I printed these to a clear transparency then paited the back with white paint for plastic. Installed them right above my VIN tag.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-07-11-1.jpg)
I installed my windows so that I could adjust the top frame and finally put the top on. I was quoted between $600 and $1000 for a shop to do it. I decided to try it myself.
The window cost me $100 and the top cost me $200 so if I screw up a top or two It is still cheaper than giving the money to someone else.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-07-11-2.jpg)
I was sold some tack stips from Year one. The rear one was too low compared to the original. I ended up glueing both strips in "SIDEWAYS" then trimming the taller one down. I could not find anyone that sold a 1/2"x 1/2" tack strip. What you see here are 2 tack strips side by side. These were the front and rear one that they sold me. I didn't see a front one on this car. Maybe that's a Chevy thing?
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-07-11-3.jpg)
I centered the rear window and put in some temporary staples to hold it.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-07-11-4.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-07-11-8.jpg)
From the inside, I held up the glass with one hand, while I poked holes and installed 1/4" bolts to hold the rear material tight. I had to install these to have an idea where to install the rear tack strip.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-07-11-5.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-07-11-6.jpg)
This is what it looks like with the bolts holding it tight.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-07-11-7.jpg)
I used a gold marker to mark a line where the tack strip should go.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-07-11-9.jpg)
I took the whole window out by unzipping top section and laid it down next to the tack strip.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-07-11-10.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-07-11-11.jpg)
I installed nuts and bolts through the new holes and tack strip to hold them together,
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-07-11-13.jpg)
then stapled them together.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-07-11-12.jpg)
I reinstalled the window, now using the tacking strip and it's hardware to hold it in. I then restapled the top over the window to remove any loose wrinkles.
Look at the tight fit. The sides get tighter when the side tack strip are installed.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-07-11-15.jpg)
Installed the "PADS" next. These keep the bows in line and protect the sides of the top. I first drilled 4 holes in the front header. After doubling over the front edge, I poked a sharp awl through the material and installed #8 screws to hold it.I then pulled them as tight as I could before stapling them to the bows, ending at the back window.I sprayed a little adhesive into the pad cover before folding the top closed then stapling it closed.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-07-11-16.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-07-11-17.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-07-11-18.jpg)
Tied the included string to the top cables, then pulled the through.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-07-11-19.jpg)
draped the full top on the car, then pulled it out in the sun to soften it and relax the wrinkles.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-07-11-20.jpg)
Here it is waiting for the rear side tack strips, then front header attachment. That's next. So far this took a full day.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-07-11-21.jpg)
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I wanted to redo my rear pad mounting and install it under the rear curtain material so I puuled it back off and restapled it.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-10-11-1.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-10-11-2.jpg)
Sides come premarked with holes for the bolts.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-10-11-3.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-10-11-4.jpg)
I installed them to see if they fit with a couple of staples. Once satisfied, I unbolted them then stapled them all the way down.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-10-11-5.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-10-11-6.jpg)
Had to use 3m spray adhesive to stick these tightly around the side-rear window weatherstriping. These get sandwitched under the weatherstrip channel.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-10-11-7.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-10-11-8.jpg)
I used a box to hold the top up since it's weight pulls oil past the top cylinder pistons. Put a battery charger on the battery because the constant pump use drained my new battery.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-10-11-9.jpg)
Once I was satisfied with the final lenght, I cut the bottom portion of this off, then bolted it in. Make sure you are sure on the length because I've had to take this tack strip and rear window out at least 20 times to adjust and check tension.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-10-11-10.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-10-11-11.jpg)
I streched the front around the front header and spray glued it, then cut off the excess.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-10-11-12.jpg)
My top was a Kee Auto top from Year One. It had markings on the corners for length. It also came with a fat deflector strip to glue on, to protect the front top edge. This didn't come on the factory tops.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-10-11-13.jpg)
Last row of staples that go under the rear bow cover. I have to buy some longer staples before I can install it. Cover is in the picture.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-10-11-14.jpg)
Getting close! I have about 4 days in this thing and can see why someone would pay $600 to $1200 to get this installed. I would probably charge the same thing. Very labor intensive!.
Installed my Well liner from Year one. This gets glued in the front at tope of the rear seat back support.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-10-11-15.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-10-11-16.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/05-10-11-17.jpg)
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Got my Legendary set covers and foams.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-02-11-1.jpg)
Had to do something about these rotten seats.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-02-11-2.jpg)
Bought some burlap and 1/8" steel rods from Ace Hardware. Steel rods go inside the seat cover to add character to the seat by pulling the main section in for looks.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-02-11-3.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-02-11-4.jpg)
Had to shape the wire, then insert it, straighten it then rebend it while I was installing it.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-02-11-5.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-02-11-6.jpg)
Wrapped burlap around the frme and hog ringed it on.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-02-11-7.jpg)
Rear seat also need repair. It's frame was very rusty with sections rusted away. I'll have to weld a rod across these holes to hog ring the seat cover to.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-02-11-8.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-02-11-15.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-02-11-11.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-02-11-9.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-02-11-10.jpg)
Marked the Dash for my reverse light.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-02-11-13.jpg)
Tuning the EFI with a laptop for the Idle tune. Once I get it driving, it will tune itself when the laptop is connected.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-02-11-16.jpg)
Painted the Console. I had a good black one but didn't want to waste a good gold one, so I painted it black.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-02-11-14.jpg)
Took my car to get the front end aligned.I wanted the adjustments prerfomed at driving weight so I added some weight to the trunk to simulate the stuff I actually carry like a spare, a jack, toolbox, tools, alternator, starter, etc. I wanted it to sit like it had 2 people in it too, so I loaded up the inside with a two boxes of weights. Driving it home from the shop, I noticed the rear end really sagging, which wasn't that low befor driving it the 1-1/2 miles to and from the place. The rear springs are the cheap Mopar performance XHD e-body springs that I replaced to top spring with a stock e-body USA metal leaf from an old set that I had but it only helped a little.
Time to add an extra USA leaf Like I did in my hardtop.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-02-11-17.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-02-11-18.jpg)
Took a B-body spare mail leaf and cut off the ends.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-02-11-19.jpg)
Added it to the stack, right under the main leaf. Used c-Clamps to hold the leaves together, while I put the main bolt back in. I'll have to make some leaf spring straps to clamp the front ard rear together,
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-02-11-20.jpg)
Car sits exactly where I like it.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-02-11-22.jpg)
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Mounted my reverse light inducator.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-05-11-1.jpg)
Did my driver's seat
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-05-11-2.jpg)
Had to do the driver's side add-a-leaf. Here is a another pic of the saggy butt left side. Right side is up and done.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-05-11-4.jpg)
Cut the ends off the b-body spring. It has more arch than my e-body springs.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-05-11-5.jpg)
Dropped the lower leaves, removed all except the top spring, installed the extra spring between it and all of the lower leaves. I had to leave the very bottom spring off since my center bolt was too short. I'll re-add them back to each side once I find some longer bolts.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-05-11-6.jpg)
Once installed, second leaf sits inder the eye. I used c-clamps and vice grips to hold the sping together as I added leafs.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-05-11-7.jpg)
New improved ride height.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-05-11-9.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-05-11-10.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-05-11-18.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-05-11-21.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-05-11-14.jpg)
Installed "illumin8s" LED turn signals and driving lights. His user name here is "bigblu73"
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-05-11-LED3.jpg)
Put them in my 70 RT too.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-05-11-LED1.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-05-11-24.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-05-11-16.jpg)
Still have to finish my other seats and tune it.
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I still had to do my other seats.
Here is the Passenger seat. The foam was usable but for for $100, it got new buns. THIS IS THE DELUXE SEAT COVER
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-17-11-1.jpg)
I unbolted the back, flipped it over and started cutting off the old hog rings.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-17-11-2.jpg)
Here is the old and new foam,
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-17-11-3.jpg)
There is a piece of wire on the back of the old foam that pulls the insert into the foam to give it it's shape.This is the old usable old one I pulled out to reuse. You can see it behind the spring in the picture above. It is different shape if you don't have the deluxe seat cover!
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-17-11-4.jpg)
I flipped it over and started hog ringing the insert wire to the rear foam wire through the foam. See my driver's seat pics above to see how I made the insert wire, then installed it. Here it is pulled in.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-17-11-5.jpg)
I hog ringed 2 layers of burlap over the seat springs. to protect the foam. My old seat didn't have it.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-17-11-6.jpg)
I put the cover and foam over the seat frame and hog ringed the foam stips to the frame. These strips get glued to the foam per the instructions that came with the foam buns. I then started wrestling with it on a piece of cardboard on the garage floor.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-17-11-7.jpg)
It is like trying to sit on an alligator and pull his belly skin up and over his face and body!
You just keep pulling here and there, massaging the cover, pulling some more, letting it absorb some heat from the sun, then pull and tug some more. You better have some good hand and grip strength. Check for straightness, then hog ring it down!
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-17-11-8.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-17-11-9.jpg)
Did the bottom the same way. Made 2 wires. One for the cover insert, one for under the foam then hog ringed them together. I used 1/8" steel rod from Ace Hardware to bend up a new one and place it behind the middle foam area. it is a copy of the original, just not rusted and deteriorated yet. Then started the pulling and tugging on the floor.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-17-11-11.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-17-11-12.jpg)
This was the rear seat back for a convertible. No foam at all. Just a smelly nasty cotton stuffing like inside an old chair grandma sat in. It went right to the garbage. The frames were so rusty that I painted them with 2 coats of RUST MORT, then primer, then black Rustoleum.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-17-11-13.jpg)
Went to the Hobby Lobby store and bought waterproof polyester stuffing. 24" tall, 2" thick, $20 a yard.
Also found a piece of carpet pad to put under it.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-17-11-14.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-17-11-15.jpg)
Ready to install the cover. Seat frame has burlap, then padding, then polyester pad.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-17-11-16.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-17-11-17.jpg)
Used new burlap and OLD FOAM for the rear seat bottom. Very easy to put on new covers over old foam!
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-17-11-18.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-17-11-19.jpg)
Rear seat installed.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-17-11-20.jpg)
Nice new white interior!
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/06-17-11-21.jpg)
Do a little everyday and you'll be driving someday!
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Here is a reminder picture of my Ebay purchased vert.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/front-1.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/pass-3.jpg)
And here is a picture of my goofy face with my Preggo daughter going for a drive. She is due in Nov. We just left the OB/GYN's office and found out that they are having a boy. So, Ill be a GRANDPA!
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/71-pace.jpg)
Paid $15,000 for this rusty convertible on Ebay.
+Spent about $5000 in parts
+Added long hours with sweat and some blood.
= I have my Pace Car that many have NEVER EVER seen one of.
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Beautiful car!
I'm really digging the body-colored T/A spoiler and front air dam thingys
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Nice! I've enjoyed following along on all the hard work you've put into that car. :2thumbs:
And congrats to your family on the impending addition. :clapping:
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I'm really digging the body-colored T/A spoiler and front air dam thingys
Thanks for following along guys. I had to lock the thread since it was a 3-1/2 year build. This thing would have been 100 pages of comments.
I wasn't sure what to do with those, so when I had the car painted, I threw those in with the mirrors. I wanted them to match and could always change the color later.
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congrats Rob, she looks great, and the car as well... :lol: congrats on becoming granddad :clapping:
it was an awesome build :2thumbs: loved every part of it. Enjoy !! :burnout: :woo: :wave:
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Rob,
I can't believe how far that has has come. :wow:
Congrats on being a future grandfather too. :jumping:
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Awesome about the Baby the car is ok looking :poopoke:
I LIKE IT :bigsmile:
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Thanks. I don't think I'll ever do one that rusty again. At least I know what is under the paint on this one.
Here it is at a car show on Friday. It was 95 degrees in HUMID St. Louis. I have to charge up the A/C then I can leave the top closed till it cools down here. What are the chances of 2 71 convertibles being 2 cars away from each other? They only made less that 2200 71 verts.
Actually belongs to a a member here "cynister", a friend of mine.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/070211.jpg)
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Rob,once again "you rock" :worshippy. Having seen the car in person at ryans place,i have to say that you did a great job rebuilding the vert. :ylsuper: And the pictures are great,but they do not do it justice.It was a bit too hot for me for the friday fenton cruise,as i worked out in that damn heat all day on friday,see you at ryans on wednesday.Oh yeah,did i mention that you ROCK!!!!! :burnout:
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Thanks Mike!
I used to "ROCK" But now I "ROLL"!!!!
Jamming Classic ROCK and ROLL with the top down!
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:ylsuper: :ylsuper: :ylsuper:
Oh yeah congrats grandpa! :2thumbs:
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First- Congratulations on becoming a granddad, raise him into the Mopar family. :clapping:
Second, thank you for sharing the Chally Indy Pace car build! Everyone on the site knows that you went through many tribulations during the eBay car to the beautiful pace car conversion. The last segment of posts showing the convertible install make me happy that I have a hardtop. The white “blackout” on the hood looks awesome – it defiantly belongs.
And, yes, you are correct; most people have no clue that there ever was a Challenger pace car. Again, thanks foe posting. Your project, along with others here, keeps me inspired to go out to the garage and do some work. :cheers:
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Thanks
She was our Gateway International Racetrack 1993 Jr. Dragster points winner. She was also in Car Craft Magazine in an article about Jr. Racers. She was 14. She is 30 now. I had both my kids in Jr. Dragsters and they loved racing.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/Sheri-Car%20Craft/CarCraft-Sherie.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/Sheri-Car%20Craft/CarCraft-Sherie001.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/Sheri-Car%20Craft/CarCraft-Sherie002.jpg)
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:woo: :woo: :woo: Congrats Gramps...... Glad your Rolling now, it's been a great build. :clapping:
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Looks Exellent Rob
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:2thumbs: :cheers: A lot of devoted time and hard work Rob and ya pulled it off beautifully. Congratulations on becomming a Grandpa.
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Thanks again everyone that followed along. I'm locking this one down as done and will update if anything special happens with the car. There are still a few things I want to do, such as power relays to speed up all 4 power window motors and a relay pack for the blower motor to keep the high current demand out of the switch panel. These projects are never really done. There is always something else to do.
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I decided to drive it the 700 miles from St. Louis to Detroit and Cruise the Woodward Avenue Dream Cruise to show off my new wheels. This pic was taken August 21, 2011. Many were asking if this was the "real one" As in the pace car that paced the race. One guy asked if it was Eldon Palmer's car. I heard one guy, walk up with his kid and say, "this car is worth a lot of money!" Cameras were popping everywhere, like a very very special car was out for a drive and may not be seen again. What a great feeling that is.
That is my friend Tim, standing in the back. He has a 70 440-6PK purple Challenger but it was too hot to cruise if you weren't in a CONVERTIBLE!
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/71-vert/Pace-car-woodward.jpg)
This isn't my picture. I'm in the car driving. I'm crediting this guy for getting the picture.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/scott597/6074251723/
This is a cute Polish girl that liked my car, so I put her in it to get a pic.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/71-vert/DSCN0558.jpg)
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I drove it Indiananpolis, Indiana for Monster Mopar Weekend and was able to pace some of the Winged Warriors club on the ctircle track.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/71-vert/MMW-2011-4.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/71-vert/MMW-2011-5.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/71-vert/MMW-2011-2.jpg)
I was wearing my video sunglasses the whole time and got some good video that I'll post soon.
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Pics from the past week. I got to pace all 5 groups that wanted to drive the track at Monster Mopar Weekend in St. Louis. I drove while the Gateway official rode shotgun with radio contact to the track.
These pics belong to member "Devil"
(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8008/7174946539_077299a613_c.jpg)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/Power%20Tour/PaceCar6-6-12.jpg)
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Found some historical Pace Car pics from the race.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/Pace-Car/PaceCar1_zps5d6e0b86.jpg) (http://s363.photobucket.com/user/shelbydoggs/media/Pace-Car/PaceCar1_zps5d6e0b86.jpg.html)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/Pace-Car/Pacecar-1_zps7ad24300.jpg) (http://s363.photobucket.com/user/shelbydoggs/media/Pace-Car/Pacecar-1_zps7ad24300.jpg.html)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/Pace-Car/Pace-car-1_zps38924875.jpg) (http://s363.photobucket.com/user/shelbydoggs/media/Pace-Car/Pace-car-1_zps38924875.jpg.html)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/Pace-Car/pacecr-ad_zps57a5ccef.jpg) (http://s363.photobucket.com/user/shelbydoggs/media/Pace-Car/pacecr-ad_zps57a5ccef.jpg.html)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/Pace-Car/pacecrar_zpsca7b52ca.jpg) (http://s363.photobucket.com/user/shelbydoggs/media/Pace-Car/pacecrar_zpsca7b52ca.jpg.html)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/Pace-Car/PaceCar3_zpse0096233.jpg) (http://s363.photobucket.com/user/shelbydoggs/media/Pace-Car/PaceCar3_zpse0096233.jpg.html)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/Pace-Car/PaceCar4_zps13c495aa.jpg) (http://s363.photobucket.com/user/shelbydoggs/media/Pace-Car/PaceCar4_zps13c495aa.jpg.html)
I upgraded my fuel injection with an EZ-EFI computer, wiring harness and modified aluminum intake with injectors off of a junk yard 5.2 Magnum. Used my $15 swap meet throttle body as the air valve. Sensor on top is to monitor air temp. Had to make the throttle cable mount and return spring bracket.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/Pace-Car/PC-efi-2_zps1c16daf8.jpg) (http://s363.photobucket.com/user/shelbydoggs/media/Pace-Car/PC-efi-2_zps1c16daf8.jpg.html)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/Pace-Car/PC-EFI_zps68eb9e34.jpg) (http://s363.photobucket.com/user/shelbydoggs/media/Pace-Car/PC-EFI_zps68eb9e34.jpg.html)
A couple of pics from last week's 960 mile, home to Cruisapalooza to Monster Mopar in Indy 2013 to Street Machine Nationals to home. Set my Cruise AFR to 15.4 to 1 and averaged 23.9 mpg.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/Pace-Car/pc-mmw2013-1_zpsa0083996.jpg) (http://s363.photobucket.com/user/shelbydoggs/media/Pace-Car/pc-mmw2013-1_zpsa0083996.jpg.html)
I love the "muscle" look of BIG MEATS on the back.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/Pace-Car/PC-mmw2013-2_zpsc7d2f1f9.jpg) (http://s363.photobucket.com/user/shelbydoggs/media/Pace-Car/PC-mmw2013-2_zpsc7d2f1f9.jpg.html)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/Pace-Car/PC-mmw2013-3_zpsd5893c8b.jpg) (http://s363.photobucket.com/user/shelbydoggs/media/Pace-Car/PC-mmw2013-3_zpsd5893c8b.jpg.html)
A pic from the garage
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/Pace-Car/Mopars_zpsb8f28902.jpg) (http://s363.photobucket.com/user/shelbydoggs/media/Pace-Car/Mopars_zpsb8f28902.jpg.html)
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While I was at the Mopar Nationals 2013, I noticed that the top of my fan shroud was feeling a little rough, like my fan was hitting it. I thought that my driver's side motor mount was starting to come apart. When I left the grounds, I jumped on it "a little" to show off, but heard a loud noise so I let off and drove to the hotel. When I popped the hood, I noticed my fan shroud busted into 4 pieces with the top gone. the pieces were laying scattered in the engine compartment.
I changed the motor mount, which came apart at the metal to rubber glue point.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/m-mount_zpsc9982f08.jpg) (http://s363.photobucket.com/user/shelbydoggs/media/cuda-chal-resto-pics/m-mount_zpsc9982f08.jpg.html)
After pricing Schumacher's fail safe motor mount and found out their torque strap was $75, I bought one from my local auto parts for $5.78 then decided to make a torque strap like I made for my big block car. I used scrap metal, a sway bar bushings and washers from my garage and a spare big-block distributor hold down plate.
I cut a piece of strap steel to fit my k-frame's front sway bar mount. I then cut a piece of steel to fit against my block and motor mount bolts. Drilled holes for the top plates to bolt together then welded some more metal on the bottom plate to make a mount.
I used all-thread 3/8 rod, some nuts, lock washers, and nylon locknuts to hold the sway bar bushings. I double nutted the middle and used lock washers in between them to adjust how tight I want the bushings.
Funny how much damage these <$6 motor mounts can cause if they come apart. So far it cost me $40 for another used fan shroud but could have killed my radiator too. This engine isn't going anywhere!
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/090413-1_zpsa425c5df.jpg) (http://s363.photobucket.com/user/shelbydoggs/media/cuda-chal-resto-pics/090413-1_zpsa425c5df.jpg.html)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/090413-2_zps4b7e7bc9.jpg) (http://s363.photobucket.com/user/shelbydoggs/media/cuda-chal-resto-pics/090413-2_zps4b7e7bc9.jpg.html)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/090413-6_zpsbdf62091.jpg) (http://s363.photobucket.com/user/shelbydoggs/media/cuda-chal-resto-pics/090413-6_zpsbdf62091.jpg.html)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/090413-4_zps81106cd2.jpg) (http://s363.photobucket.com/user/shelbydoggs/media/cuda-chal-resto-pics/090413-4_zps81106cd2.jpg.html)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/090413-7_zps31114513.jpg) (http://s363.photobucket.com/user/shelbydoggs/media/cuda-chal-resto-pics/090413-7_zps31114513.jpg.html)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/090413-8_zps7895a316.jpg) (http://s363.photobucket.com/user/shelbydoggs/media/cuda-chal-resto-pics/090413-8_zps7895a316.jpg.html)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/090413-9_zps79e4d309.jpg) (http://s363.photobucket.com/user/shelbydoggs/media/cuda-chal-resto-pics/090413-9_zps79e4d309.jpg.html)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/090413-10_zps8f12f666.jpg) (http://s363.photobucket.com/user/shelbydoggs/media/cuda-chal-resto-pics/090413-10_zps8f12f666.jpg.html)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/090413-11_zps0ac6a875.jpg) (http://s363.photobucket.com/user/shelbydoggs/media/cuda-chal-resto-pics/090413-11_zps0ac6a875.jpg.html)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/090413-12_zps02f51e42.jpg) (http://s363.photobucket.com/user/shelbydoggs/media/cuda-chal-resto-pics/090413-12_zps02f51e42.jpg.html)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/cuda-chal-resto-pics/090413-13_zps7b577b41.jpg) (http://s363.photobucket.com/user/shelbydoggs/media/cuda-chal-resto-pics/090413-13_zps7b577b41.jpg.html)
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Going on the Hot Rod Power Tour 2014. 850 miles from home just to get to The Charlotte Motor Speedway starting point next week. I've been playing with all of the A/C components to get it blowing cold. We are going north all the way to the Wisconsin Dells, so I probably wont need it like they did last year.
I sent off for my "fake" PACE CAR license plate for my "fake" Challenger Indy Pace Car. Just got it today, in time for the tour, next Friday. A place on line makes you a plate with anything you send them. Since I bought (2) one for the car and one for my man-cave, they cost me $12.40 each.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/Pace-Car/plate1_zps540bfb2e.jpg) (http://s363.photobucket.com/user/shelbydoggs/media/Pace-Car/plate1_zps540bfb2e.jpg.html)
EVERYBODY except Ford and Chevy guys knows what happened to the #1 car. Mine is #2
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/Pace-Car/plate2_zps03ee31ec.jpg) (http://s363.photobucket.com/user/shelbydoggs/media/Pace-Car/plate2_zps03ee31ec.jpg.html)
People ask me if it's Eldon Palmer's car and if "this was the one?"
Any Mopars going? We have a whole plan for the MOPOWER TOUR.
Follow along here:
http://powertour2014.wordpress.com/ (http://powertour2014.wordpress.com/)
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Made it to Hot Rod's coverage of the Power Tour on the web:
http://blogs.hotrod.com/gallery-topless-at-the-2014-hot-rod-power-tour-117027.html#axzz345irpobv (http://blogs.hotrod.com/gallery-topless-at-the-2014-hot-rod-power-tour-117027.html#axzz345irpobv)
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/Power%20Tour/PT-2014_zps0b186c1e.jpg) (http://s363.photobucket.com/user/shelbydoggs/media/Power%20Tour/PT-2014_zps0b186c1e.jpg.html)
I was told around 4000 cars driving the Power Tour this year.
(http://i363.photobucket.com/albums/oo78/shelbydoggs/Pace-Car/Pace-PT_zps6fbdb881.jpg) (http://s363.photobucket.com/user/shelbydoggs/media/Pace-Car/Pace-PT_zps6fbdb881.jpg.html)
Can't wait till next Year!
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Added a video to my youtube channel of my EFI conversion and showing it running on my engine stand before I installed it. Did it last year and it is still running great with MPG around averaging 26-27.
Part 1:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d7urOreeK_A (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d7urOreeK_A)
Part 2:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c7kkNZn1A9U (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c7kkNZn1A9U)
Been Driving the heck out of it. Driving to the Car Craft Street Machine Fall Nationals Sept 27-28, 2014
Heard others complain that if you have a BLACK convertible top, that it is HOT when the top is up.
My white top is cool and besides that, mine is an A/C car.