TAC Spotlight => Projects & Restorations => Topic started by: roadking77 on February 08, 2021, 07:22:37 AM

Title: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on February 08, 2021, 07:22:37 AM
Hoping the old threads come back  :?, but just in case I will restart my old thread. Not much mechanical info, motor is still at the shop, I will be checking in today, hopefully the block is back from the machinist.
I have been doing bits and pieces in my small heated shop. I have found that when some larger tasks seem too daunting, thats a good time to work on the little stuff. That way when the time comes you have your stash of plug n play parts ready to go. Most of the int. trim was finished last winter. Last couple of weekends was the steering column. The tilt is nice and tight so it just need a tear down, clean and paint. I did break the hazard knob so I ordered new from firebird central. I cleaned all of the switches with electric contact cleaner so I hope they will be good to go. Ordered a new key switch from Ames, waiting for it to come in so I can get things buttoned up.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50912534908_6a2a467d62_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kyY3S1)2021-02-05_07-52-15 (https://flic.kr/p/2kyY3S1) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50912532928_89dfedee35_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kyY3gS)2021-02-05_07-51-17 (https://flic.kr/p/2kyY3gS) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50912841197_c8b6371cf6_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kyZBUR)2021-02-05_04-19-53 (https://flic.kr/p/2kyZBUR) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50912712471_9d094f4f16_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kyYXDr)2021-02-05_04-19-42 (https://flic.kr/p/2kyYXDr) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on February 08, 2021, 07:27:33 AM
Re did the collar. Stripped off the old with my trusty little battery die grinder and a medium then fine roloc. Took all of 10 minuts. Then I put the collar on my shop furnace for a few minutes to warm it up. Sprayed with VHT wrinkle paint. I have to say it even impressed me. Came out darn near perfect. THEN, I put some colour to it with SEM  :( :( The SEM melted off the wrinkle coat. Strip it back down, wrinkle coat again, this time some rustoleum primer and then the SEM. Worked the second time around with primer, but the extra layer of paint concealed the wrinkles a bit. SO, I am thinking third times a charm.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50891577782_3aa677c8a3_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kx7D3f)2021-01-30_01-21-26 (https://flic.kr/p/2kx7D3f) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50891461316_e8450363b4_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kx73qd)2021-01-30_01-21-38 (https://flic.kr/p/2kx73qd) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50891578597_70e6f6bf53_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kx7Dhi)2021-01-30_01-21-47 (https://flic.kr/p/2kx7Dhi) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50891416028_77aa14bbd5_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kx6NXo)2021-01-30_05-11-23 (https://flic.kr/p/2kx6NXo) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: ryeguy2006a on February 08, 2021, 07:29:26 AM
Nice work Kerry! That steering column looks brand new and the collar looks great.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on February 08, 2021, 07:30:19 AM
Cleaned up and painted the bottom of the shaker. I recently got this from a local source, very nice, uncut and still had the factory nipple for the drain tub. I painted the metal plate satin black, and cleaned the bare fibreglass.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50891420838_20fddd4b93_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kx6Qoj)2021-01-30_05-12-46 (https://flic.kr/p/2kx6Qoj) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50892125441_ac893b48c2_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kxarQD)2021-01-30_05-11-13 (https://flic.kr/p/2kxarQD) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on February 08, 2021, 07:31:59 AM
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50912842327_628a088995_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kyZCfk)2021-02-05_04-20-21 (https://flic.kr/p/2kyZCfk) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr

Another little project, I had a rear sway bar made, so I cleaned it up a bit and sprayed with 'shark hide'. This part is ready to install as well.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on February 08, 2021, 07:35:19 AM
Thanks Ryan, compared to your mechanical skills this is pretty basic stuff, but I figure what the heck it all needs done.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: Jack on February 08, 2021, 08:05:39 AM
That shaker cleaned up nicely, great work as usual Kerry.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: FormTA on February 08, 2021, 10:10:27 AM
Ya, that shaker really surprised me too! The steering column looks amazing as well. It's surprising how many small items there are to restore. It's good you get them done now, so they don't slow you later.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on February 08, 2021, 03:55:02 PM
Kerry,

I am always amazed at how well everything you touch turns out.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on February 08, 2021, 04:13:59 PM
Thanks Larry. Im not very mechanically minded so motor work is my shortcoming right now, But I can clean and paint stuff  :shock:
Guess I will start on the 'show' side of the shaker now. I have way too many small projects started and nothing finished, including the steering column. I am waiting on a shipment from Ames for the new key switch. I ordered that and a couple of small things last monday, I also ordered the hazard knob from Firebird Central on the same day. Got the knob on Friday, still waiting on Ames. Their service is usually better, but a bit of a let down this time around.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on February 08, 2021, 05:15:35 PM
Kerry,

You give me and others incentive to keep moving forward. When you take a worn out part and make it look like new or sometimes better, that's restoration, really kind of an art form. I am more mechanically inclined. I used to paint but haven't for years. When the weather gets better I will dust off the cobwebs in my brain and relearn what I have forgotten.

I have been ordering parts from various vendors and the delivery times are all over the place from the same vendor. I am sure the weather has been a factor as well as the pandemic. In the grand scheme of things I am not going to complain. Not like my health or livelihood is depending on prompt delivery.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: Wallington on February 08, 2021, 06:35:05 PM
Shaker came up nicely with date stamps intact, easy to remove with the slightest cleaners or scrubbing.

What's the blue paint blob or sticker on the column, inspection stamp?
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on February 09, 2021, 07:44:13 AM
Yes the date stamps are still on the shaker, I worked carefully not to remove although they are not correct for my car!

Yes, the blue dot is a sticker. There was one on there before I started the cleanup. At first I thought it was just something on there, then I saw a couple more pics that also had them present. I was 'told' that it was a factory marking, so I figured what the heck. Im not really that guy that wants to replicate factory markings but.......since it was there :-?
There was also a green paint marker check mark on the bottom side of the mounting plate. I put that back too, although that will be covered over with the foam seal.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on February 09, 2021, 07:47:36 AM
Question about the shaker. The one I have is in very nice original condition, I think?  The top is painted white and I havent started working on that yet so I dont know how many coats of paint are on there. The complete underside, inside the scoop and even the outside of the black metal plate were bare fibreglass. Was this how the factory painted these? Paint on the top, bare underneath?
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on February 09, 2021, 07:48:12 AM
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50913220526_698f20f291_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kz2yF1)2021-02-05_07-50-45 (https://flic.kr/p/2kz2yF1) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr

Before resto.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on February 09, 2021, 06:14:09 PM
Kerry,

To answer your question on shaker paint.

This is a picture of my 1980 301, top

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50926744563_18f444b106_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kAdSU4)IMG_7668 (https://flic.kr/p/2kAdSU4) by Lawrence Alexander (https://www.flickr.com/photos/188552644@N06/), on Flickr

Here is the underneath of my 1980, 301. The fiberglass shaker is unpainted.

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50927427676_866ca8876b_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kAhnXS)IMG_7669 (https://flic.kr/p/2kAhnXS) by Lawrence Alexander (https://www.flickr.com/photos/188552644@N06/), on Flickr

Here is another picture of the underneath showing the baseplate. It looks like the baseplate started out black but has white overspray from when the top was painted.


(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50927481071_efd23361e7_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kAhDQt)IMG_7671 (https://flic.kr/p/2kAhDQt) by Lawrence Alexander (https://www.flickr.com/photos/188552644@N06/), on Flickr

Here is the underneath of the fiberglass portion of a spare I have, not sure what year, but it looks unpainted. I cant say for sure how a TATA might have been, but its unlikely Pontiac painted anymore than what they had to. Hope this helps!

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50926744613_edb271876b_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kAdSUV)IMG_7670 (https://flic.kr/p/2kAdSUV) by Lawrence Alexander (https://www.flickr.com/photos/188552644@N06/), on Flickr
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on February 10, 2021, 08:16:15 AM
Thanks Larry, thats perfect, great pics. Makes sense that the bottom would have overspray, after all of the work I did to make mine look purdy on the bottom I guess I will not tape anything off when I paint the top. I am not one for replicating factory marks, stickers etc. And when I started this resto all I wanted to do was a quick paint, motor rebuild, get it on the road, drive for a month then sell. The longer I work on it, and the deeper I get into the rabbit hole the more correct I have become about markings, date codes etc. Why Oh Why ??
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: RamblerRacer on February 10, 2021, 09:07:39 PM
The bottom of mine was unpainted as well,
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on February 11, 2021, 11:31:33 AM
 :D
The bottom of mine was unpainted as well,
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 737driver on March 14, 2021, 12:41:22 AM
Kerry, it is always great to see your progress reports on your cars. It is amazing how you can preserve much of the original parts on the car. Very impressive!
Jim
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on March 14, 2021, 08:51:32 AM
We had a really cold spell, then I caught up working on the shop ceiling. Now things are put back in their place and spring is here I would like to get back on the car. Finishing the bottom stalled last fall. So I figure may as well pick up there. I dropped the fuel tank yesterday (no sticker, but being a Norwood car I was told there wouldnt be) and pulled the pass side fuel lines. Silly me had a wild thought that I may be able to blow them out and clean them up. They literally fell apart in my hand, SO on to get new lines. I am glad as I knew better and should have just got them from the start. Fuel tank is a bit banged up so I will get a new one of those as well.

Havent talked to my motor guy for awhile, but last time I did he said the blocked had to be dipped several times to get rid of all the rust but it was going to fine. I expect that it is back at his shop by now, hoping to stop by this week and check.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: Nexus on March 20, 2021, 08:46:14 AM
Caught up and re-subscribed
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on March 22, 2021, 07:20:15 AM
Weather breaking, finally back in the shop getting some small stuff finished. Checked with the mechanic, block is still at the machinist. I was really hoping I would have had it back by now but I have other stuff to keep me busy. I took the fuel tank out, after cleaning the trunk floor looked brand new. I coated and re painted but no metal work needed. Nice to have a relatively rust free car! Silly me thought I could blow out and clean up the fuel lines, they literally fell apart in my hand after removal. Tank has a couple of big dents in the bottom that I dont like, if I cant get them out it will be replaced. Bottom side of car is finished, I just need to install new fuel lines (need to be ordered) then I can take it off the cribbing. At that point I can remove the rear end for a rebuild.  In the meantime I started the resto on my wiper motor, got the arms done. Transmission was painted all black at one time, I used some paint stripper and then a power washer to clean it up a bit. Shop is going to tear into and rebuild it. He also said he would clean the case but I figure I would give him a little better to start with.

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51060249007_1d61419ab1_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kN287P)2021-03-21_04-03-30 (https://flic.kr/p/2kN287P) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51059451328_fea8de8670_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kMX2ZJ)2021-03-21_04-04-41 (https://flic.kr/p/2kMX2ZJ) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51060245912_9218ae24f3_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kN27cs)2021-03-21_04-02-26 (https://flic.kr/p/2kN27cs) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51059443108_c84fb55823_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kMWZy1)2021-03-21_04-02-06 (https://flic.kr/p/2kMWZy1) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51060172596_970b0b9c9b_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kN1Jpo)2021-03-21_04-04-55 (https://flic.kr/p/2kN1Jpo) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51060246797_181053e87c_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kN27sH)2021-03-21_04-02-47 (https://flic.kr/p/2kN27sH) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51060251997_d9e8cc76fd_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kN291n)2021-03-21_04-04-21 (https://flic.kr/p/2kN291n) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51060170491_4ccbd50da9_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kN1HM6)2021-03-21_04-04-11 (https://flic.kr/p/2kN1HM6) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51059449353_099e13aea6_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kMX2pF)2021-03-21_04-04-02 (https://flic.kr/p/2kMX2pF) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: ryeguy2006a on March 22, 2021, 08:18:11 AM
Looking great Kerry!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: MNBob on March 23, 2021, 01:56:23 PM
I was able to get the gas tank straps on edge into a mortar mixing tub.  Filled it to cover them with Evaporust and waited a few days.  They came out good.   

My Super T10 had a bad leaky front seal after 38K miles so you might want to check that.  Tranny looks great!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on March 23, 2021, 04:52:28 PM
Yea, the guys gonna tear it apart for a once over, replace all wear items.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: FormTA on March 24, 2021, 12:58:18 PM
That paint stripper did an amazing job on the transmission! That is really impressive!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on March 26, 2021, 07:14:53 AM
Thanks Luke, It was covered with black paint. I used some stuff from Lowes, it did work really well. I was a bit concerned about pressure washing, but figured what the heck, its gonna get wet driving in the rain, and I am going to have it completely torn apart for a rebuild so nothing to loose. I did find the s/n under the paint that matches the s/n of my car  :grin:.  I was told it was the original trans, and figured it was but the proof is so much better than speculation. SO, the only part not original to the car is the carb, but I do have a correct replacement.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: FormTA on March 26, 2021, 04:45:23 PM
Talk about value adders!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on March 27, 2021, 06:50:33 AM
Just got another piece of 'gold' in the mail yesterday. Found a really nice air cleaner housing. Stripped it down, hope to get a coat of paint on it tomorrow. Pics to follow.

Motor is still at the machinist  :sad:  I asked the guy if he needed more money, but he said no. I have already paid a decent deposit but figure the guy with most in the pot goes to the head of the class.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on March 29, 2021, 01:08:48 PM
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51074428211_8b912f1bd2_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kPgN6R)2021-03-26_05-05-04 (https://flic.kr/p/2kPgN6R) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
Picked up a really nice air cleaner. Spent a few minutes with my friend the paint stripper (sorry, its not a girl), a scotchbright with some paint thinner, then my fine grit roloc on the angle grinder.

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51074530787_91a2c91128_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kPhjAp)2021-03-26_05-05-17 (https://flic.kr/p/2kPhjAp) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51074531327_5764936449_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kPhjKH)2021-03-26_05-05-39 (https://flic.kr/p/2kPhjKH) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51082197286_bca0182e7a_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kPXBzq)2021-03-29_03-04-42 (https://flic.kr/p/2kPXBzq) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51074530092_3af0022da7_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kPhjoq)2021-03-26_05-04-48 (https://flic.kr/p/2kPhjoq) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr


Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on March 29, 2021, 01:12:52 PM
I realized since the reboot I didnt have any pics of the car itself so I will post some up here. From it being a barn find (not actually, just stored in a barn temp until I got it home to my shop) through the present. Not nec. in order
(https://live.staticflickr.com/1956/44836289522_695149570d_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2bj2GNw)2018-09-24_09-45-45 (https://flic.kr/p/2bj2GNw) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on March 29, 2021, 01:17:10 PM
(https://live.staticflickr.com/1913/44166168534_2705abb7ba_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2ahPabo)2018-09-24_09-45-24 (https://flic.kr/p/2ahPabo) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/1956/45297096502_2d93c3e4da_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2c1KsEs)2018-10-15_04-45-57 (https://flic.kr/p/2c1KsEs) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/4841/45349128814_470208572f_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2c6m94h)2018-11-27_08-05-14 (https://flic.kr/p/2c6m94h) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/7851/47457333281_94771d2487_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2fiDeNa)2019-03-24_12-53-40 (https://flic.kr/p/2fiDeNa) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47967689511_c33525865c_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2g5JWVv)2019-05-30_03-46-56 (https://flic.kr/p/2g5JWVv) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on March 29, 2021, 01:22:26 PM
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/33776107888_e4fc5abea3_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/TsFo8J)2019-04-20_04-50-50 (https://flic.kr/p/TsFo8J) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/7876/46659519345_3908512971_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2e69evt)2019-04-09_06-48-48 (https://flic.kr/p/2e69evt) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48670576838_a54a88c4b9_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2h9RqQw)2019-09-03_08-05-38 (https://flic.kr/p/2h9RqQw) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49282986296_2a70d21954_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2i5YbQh)2019-12-27_02-43-29 (https://flic.kr/p/2i5YbQh) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49299552313_ab3148595c_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2i7r6kg)2019-12-30_12-34-26 (https://flic.kr/p/2i7r6kg) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48801097317_d0e188e0ac_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2hmoo2B)2019-09-26_06-25-16 (https://flic.kr/p/2hmoo2B) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50237204401_9509410a8e_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2jxhNCz)2020-08-17_11-30-47 (https://flic.kr/p/2jxhNCz) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on March 29, 2021, 03:05:37 PM
Congratulations on finding the correct air cleaner, I think they are really getting harder to find. Also nice to be able to compare the before and after body and paint pictures, the car has really come a log way, looks great. At this point you are probably getting a little anxious to have your engine back.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: Jack on March 29, 2021, 04:00:49 PM
Happy for you, I'm glad you were able to find the correct air cleaner. If you don't mind can you please see if you can find any stamped numbers/ markings, etc.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: Nexus on March 29, 2021, 05:15:14 PM
That is coming together nice. It's my favorite stock model of Trans Am.

Not surprising it looks amazing...you do great work and gives the rest of us a DIY level to aim for!!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on March 30, 2021, 07:15:06 AM
Jack,  I had the air cleaner down to bright metal entirely. Other than the  A/C logo at the 'vaccum port?' on the snorkle there are no markings at all.

Larry, Yes, I cannot wait to get the motor back. I had hopes of having the car on the road by early summer, but I suppose its fall now.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: RamblerRacer on March 30, 2021, 07:48:18 PM
Great stuff Kerry. You are a true Craftsman with both wood and metal.

JT
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on April 05, 2021, 07:49:23 AM
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51013288700_409c815056_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kHSrsm)2021-03-29_05-59-28 (https://flic.kr/p/2kHSrsm) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51094862296_ac5e812181_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kR5wrE)2021-04-04_04-26-03 (https://flic.kr/p/2kR5wrE) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flick
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51092766696_d728328296_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kQTMuC)2021-04-03_06-31-17 (https://flic.kr/p/2kQTMuC) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51094955772_27bbe30876_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kR61ej)2021-04-04_04-25-06 (https://flic.kr/p/2kR61ej) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51094958567_d2424152e2_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kR624v)2021-04-04_04-26-25 (https://flic.kr/p/2kR624v) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51094956562_36bbd39cb8_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kR61sW)2021-04-04_04-25-31 (https://flic.kr/p/2kR61sW) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51095403098_d25fda034a_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kR8icQ)2021-04-04_04-25-20 (https://flic.kr/p/2kR8icQ) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on April 05, 2021, 07:53:29 AM
Been working on misc small stuff waiting on the big day! Got a coat of semi gloss on the air cleaner, still a couple of parts to install on that to finish, cleaned and painted the linkage and side cover of the trans. I got a 'Hurst Pit Pack' from Ames, this has the new brass bushings and correct spring clips for the linkage connections. I put in pics of the old misc. worn out stuff I removed and a pic of what the new looks like. Anybody that has one of these trans should spend the $14 and replace that stuff. It made a world of difference in how tight the linkage is now.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on April 05, 2021, 07:59:44 AM
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51093577420_bdda048dc2_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kQXWuC)2021-04-03_06-30-38 (https://flic.kr/p/2kQXWuC) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr

How many people have a Hurst equipped work bench  :grin:

Polished the corroded handle up nicely, and took some oooo steel wool to the handle to get rid of the rust. Still a bit of pitting, but it is def. servicable. I was thinking of 1. getting a new one-$400 :shock: OUCH, not gonna do that. 2. get this one replated, but after cleaning I think the bad will be under the boot and hidden. So gonna live with it as is for now.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51092843144_06a3e0f158_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kQUbdG)2021-04-03_06-31-02 (https://flic.kr/p/2kQUbdG) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr

Washer connector broke on Wiper motor(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51094864511_2569f3bdb0_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kR5x6R)2021-04-04_04-27-04 (https://flic.kr/p/2kR5x6R) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51094864936_729e5a0f2e_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kR5xeb)2021-04-04_04-27-15 (https://flic.kr/p/2kR5xeb) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
Another $10 part from Ames, I didnt check but with the part no. GM parts direct may have it for cheaper, or maybe even NAPA
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51095667970_f9f5f1a7bb_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kR9DWA)2021-04-04_04-27-25 (https://flic.kr/p/2kR9DWA) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
I didnt like that the replacement was black, there are 2 options, the white one which looks more correct is at a right angle not straight. Once installed if I find the white one will work I will swap it out.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on April 05, 2021, 08:02:07 AM
Last pic for now is of the bottom of the trunk floor after I took out the fuel tank. Its nice not to have to deal with rust!
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51095421138_e1ecb908e1_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kR8oyS)2021-04-04_04-34-10 (https://flic.kr/p/2kR8oyS) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on April 05, 2021, 08:04:15 AM
Other than getting some small stuff taken care of nothing major happening. Going to make by weekly check with the shop to see if the motor has come back from the machinist yet. I ordered a new gas tank and fuel lines to be delivered to the Carlisle show, that saved about $400 in shipping. Wont have them until at least the 21st though. In the meantime trying to get some stuff put back together.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: FormTA on April 05, 2021, 10:26:03 AM
Ooh, I didn't realize this was a 4 speed car. This should be a fun option to your 77.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on April 05, 2021, 01:03:47 PM
Ooh, I didn't realize this was a 4 speed car. This should be a fun option to your 77.
Absolutely!! Biggest reason I bought it to begin with.  I was talking to Ryan at one time when he was about to switch out his motor, and came within inches of buying his. But, I figure the biggest value this car has is the original 4 speed drive train.  I have driven a lot of trans ams, going back to 1980. I have NEVER driven one that is a 4 speed!! Very much looking forward to it.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: ryeguy2006a on April 05, 2021, 01:20:30 PM
I can attest that he was very close to buying haha. Kinda wish he did, but I understand why not.

My 76 had that exact same shifter in it when I bought it. Very comfortable in the hand.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on April 05, 2021, 02:38:20 PM
Kerry,

It’s been almost a year now since I joined TAC. In that time I have been watching you turn various parts and assemblies that look like crap into a beautifully restored part. I am still amazed every time you do it. Your a very talented person, great inspiration for me and others on TAC on what elbow grease and TLC can do.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: FormTA on April 05, 2021, 05:47:52 PM
Kerry,  was thinking hard about buying Ryan's LS combo for my 67. That was a great deal! I half wish my car was still the 301 4 speed but I love the LS power and ease of use. I really wish I would have bought a LS 5 speed donor car but the price was right for what I got.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on April 11, 2021, 12:31:29 PM
One little piece at a time. Didnt get to check on the motor in the last couple of weeks. Kinda dont want to hear the bad news (that its still at the machinist). I hope to drop by one of these days and see a nice long block on the engine stand!
In the meantime I am trying to get all of the little bits that need refreshed done and put back.  One small thing was the wiper arms and motor. I had re finished the motor, got a kit to patch the pump back up and was ready to roll. Then there was a thread on the py forum regarding the date/product sticker. This discussion led to proper finish. I painted the bottom half of my motor satin black, same as I did on my 77. I have seen a few restored this way figured it was right. WRONG.  The original had a slight goldish tint on the bottom half. I scraped off my sticker and found remnants of the original hue. So I stripped it down again and lightly misted some gold spray. May not be perfect but it looks closer to correct than black.

I also ordered a correct date coded sticker from ECS, it is close but does not match the original in size and layout. Oddly enough I have a buddy restoring a similar car and he too got a sticker from ECS. The one he got looks perfect!!


(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51101715289_5a142bb4ea_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kRFDAH)2021-04-07_06-27-47 (https://flic.kr/p/2kRFDAH) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
Very faint gold under where the sticker was.

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51107151862_a443300180_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kSavGJ)2021-04-10_04-05-59 (https://flic.kr/p/2kSavGJ) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51107626938_3b7a786354_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kScWVG)2021-04-10_04-06-10 (https://flic.kr/p/2kScWVG) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr

Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: FormTA on April 11, 2021, 07:12:15 PM
OK, I'll pack mine up and ship it to you. I haven't even got to it yet, it's still in a box somewhere....

Yours looks amazing! You really do some great work!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on April 12, 2021, 06:36:26 AM
Thanks Luke, send it out  :grin:,  the plastic cover was broke in a few places. I was searching and couldnt find one so I patched this one up with some 'glass and bondo. Far from perfect but it looks better than cracked.  Ames had them in their cat., I was surprised to see them so I placed an order. Something like $75 for the whole unit. BUT it was back ordered. I still have my eyes out looking for one.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on April 26, 2021, 07:01:41 AM
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51137714392_aeba0fb3f7_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kUS9SU)2021-04-25_05-17-16 (https://flic.kr/p/2kUS9SU) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51139497855_68db78c583_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kV2i3g)2021-04-25_05-17-26 (https://flic.kr/p/2kV2i3g) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
Block off plate in the air plenum cleaned up with a new seal. I have been looking all over for some foam rubber that is like the original. No luck. Guy had Carlisle had a 500ft roll of this stuff, tore a piece off the corner and gave it to me. Its a bit thinner than  the original but will work in the meantime.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51139496820_73066ce7fd_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kV2hJq)2021-04-25_05-16-45 (https://flic.kr/p/2kV2hJq) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr

And my haul,  new fuel tank from firebird central, along with new fuel lines (sending unit was backordered), new cold case radiator. I did get the driver side line installed over the weekend now I need to get the pass side lines in. Still waiting for word on my motor :(
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: ryeguy2006a on April 26, 2021, 09:06:45 AM
I wanted to go to Carlisle so bad this year, but I'm tapped out... I'll definitely be there next year though. Might even grab a vendor spot.  :cool:
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on April 26, 2021, 03:03:52 PM
Kerry,

Looks like a nice haul from Carlisle. I always wanted to attend one of their events, but it’s a long way for me. Trying to work something out where I can visit my daughter and grandchildren in Alexandria VA and make Carlisle as a side trip.

Hope you hear back on your engine soon.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on April 27, 2021, 06:11:00 AM
Radiator was kinda spur of the moment. Kinda like Jonathon, Wed my 'liquor money' came in!!  I am a resident agent for a store, only strings attached is I get a nice stippend once a year when the license needs renewed. I typically use that as my 'play' money. Its not retirement money but I did get my parts out of it!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: jonathonar89 on April 27, 2021, 06:29:42 AM
Good way to spend the play money...something that still retains some sort of value and brings added value to your asset ;).  I’ve been thinking about getting one of those Cold Case radiators myself.  They sell them for LS swap vehicles with inlent/outlet on the passenger side.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on May 04, 2021, 06:30:01 AM
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51156628582_225ca60db6_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kWx6pC)2021-05-04_08-20-24 (https://flic.kr/p/2kWx6pC) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr

Still not much going on but the 'behind the scenes' boring stuff. New fuel tank along side the old one. New sending unit installed need to get some more tubing then I will have it ready for install. I got this from Firebird Central, picked up at Carlisle show to save on shipping. I am very happy with it and wanted to get one with the neck soldered in place. Some sell the necks loose. Also picked up fuel lines. The supply line on the driver side fit really good, not perfect but with a bit of tweaking worked out. The pass side return and vapor lines werent even close. I was able to re bend the return line to make it work but it looks a bit sloppy. The vapor line was non existent, and there was 1 line included that I am still trying to figure where it goes?  I ended up getting some nicop off of amazon and bending my own. As typical of all the plumbing jobs I do 3 trips to the 'hardware store' are involved. I didnt order enough tubing the first go round, next order to be in on thursday. Needed to order spring wrapping the stuff I had was too small. And a trip to a couple of stores to get a good tubing bender.


(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51157529783_2a3cf6a16e_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kWBHiz)2021-05-04_08-20-14 (https://flic.kr/p/2kWBHiz) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr

My original vent line and the nicop straightened from the coil

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51158399900_fdf2e0b3bc_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kWGaXA)2021-05-04_08-20-03 (https://flic.kr/p/2kWGaXA) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr

New one bent up. Need the spring then I can put this in place. Not perfect but I am sure it will be as close as the return line I installed.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: ryeguy2006a on May 04, 2021, 08:03:58 AM
Looks great Kerry. I love NiCopp.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on May 04, 2021, 03:02:07 PM
Kerry,

Nice job on the tubing bends. Having recently done some of this myself, I have an idea of what you went through. As Ryan mentioned NiCopp is great to work with, a lot more flexible than hard steel. If you have to tweak a line a little to make it fit, it's pretty easy to make small adjustments with your hand.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: olds403 on May 11, 2021, 07:30:48 PM
Nice restoration.  How did you determine where to overlay the dark gray over the silver ?  Did you lay it out with decals or measure off another 10th Anniversary. We are at this stage ourselves.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: TATurbo on May 11, 2021, 08:20:18 PM
Super impressed with the bending skills! I made a couple of attempts at a couple of different lines.  Thankfully, I'm wasn't doing a stock restoration...'cause I was pretty bad at it.  I ended up using pre-bent lines for the brake system and rubber coated PTFE for everything else (Fuel system, Trans cooler, and Power steering). 
The new lines look great!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on May 12, 2021, 07:08:23 AM
Thanks Tom, The pre bent stuff def looks better, and the nicop bends super easy. But tucked up under the car they look fine together. I started awhile ago with brake lines and wasnt 100% happy so I ended up buying pre bent front to back brake lines. Then I decided what the heck and bought the fuel lines. The big problem was that the pass side lines werent even close to fitting. They were marked for a 79 trans am but I think that was a mistake.

Olds,  I did several things with the paint scheme. First thing I study pictures of these cars and minute details almost daily. The good thing is there are still a lot of original's to look at. I surmised that the top door edge colour change is split by the mirror base, so I used that as a starting point. I paralleled that line down the door top. The over the roof width is pre determined (got the measurement from an original car), and for the life of me cannot remember what that distant is off hand. I can get it for you. Something like 1-1/4". I had some traces of original paint on the door jambs so that helped me align all the points. My biggest hurdle was the swoop across the fender top that is the transition from the door to the hood. I traced an original paint car at a show and made a paper template. I also have an original paint hood that I temp. installed to make sure every thing lined up. Hope this helps, let me know if I can offer any thing else.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: olds403 on May 12, 2021, 06:04:46 PM
Thanks Roadking
Ours is very close to this stage so anything you can share is appreciated
Mike
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: Nexus on May 12, 2021, 06:52:43 PM
As the others mentioned, those came out great!!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on May 17, 2021, 06:54:28 AM
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51156628582_225ca60db6_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kWx6pC)2021-05-04_08-20-24 (https://flic.kr/p/2kWx6pC) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr

Old tank beside new one. Old tank looked ok, bottom was pushed in a bit and I probably could have reused it. But, one thing I want new on my car is fuel and braking systems. New tanks dont cost that much, my philosophy is to put the best in I can even if I have to wait a bit longer to do so. I dont drink, smoke, gamble, or chase wild women (anymore) so my spare money goes into the car.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on May 17, 2021, 07:00:17 AM
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51183735059_514dbf6841_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kYW2dF)2021-05-16_01-05-21 (https://flic.kr/p/2kYW2dF) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr

Cleaned up and sealed, all of the lines in place and stenciled. Back on the shelf for the time being until I get the rear back in place.

There is a bit of work that goes into the fuel tank out of the box. The sending unit needs installed, new return lines and new vapor lines need to be fabbed. The fuel supply line is already there and I got a tank that had a soldered neck in place. The one thing I had to swap from my other tank is the ground wire.

No comment on motor work  :sad: I did get all of the lines finished underneath and am pretty much finished on the bottom. So, I took the car off of the cribbing to set it back on its feet, propped up the rear from under the frame and ready to remove the rear end. This should be the last major task I have before the motor. Plan on removal and rebuild, new lines brakes, etc.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on May 17, 2021, 11:53:22 AM
New tank looks good. Did you have to apply the US steel stencil? Is it date coded? I didn’t even know they were available.

I also agree on the one piece tank with the neck soldered on since that’s the way the factory did it. My tank came with a rubber hose to connect the neck. Going straight in the angle wasn’t exactly correct, so I had to compensate a little or it would have been too low.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on May 17, 2021, 04:03:09 PM
I got the stencil from Ames, they have several dates, my car being march 79, dec 78 was the closest I could get. For what it is, a bit pricey but I figured what the heck. Right now is probably the only time anyone will ever see it. I have a buddy restoring a car with a similar time frame and same drivetrain. I thought after I used the template I would put it in the mail and let him use it too. No dice, its a sticker with the negative cut out. Put the sticker on the tank, spray paint then peal the sticker off. One shot and done. Tank was kinda just dull and had a lot of marks on it. I did a rub down with 4-0 steel wool then sprayed the whole thing with shark hide.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: Nexus on June 08, 2021, 08:04:42 AM
May 17th, gas tank update.

Anything happen since then or has your attention been on getting the garage wiring squared away?
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on June 08, 2021, 01:13:22 PM
Charlie, been busy with work, the weather has been unseasonably hot (118 heat index today), and of all things I was sick for about 4 straight days. So not much has been going on. I did finally get the rear out, I started cleaning it up yesterday. I will post some pics when Im done that project. Its pretty much the last 'big' thing to do before the motor comes in.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on June 09, 2021, 09:20:46 AM
Hope your feeling better and nothing serious going on.

I’ll be watching as to how you paint your differential. I see many painted black, but I believe they were not painted at all. The driveshaft and differential were the only parts underneath that I didn’t clean up on my car because I thought I would be changing rear axle ratios. I am planing painting the center section with Eastwood cast blast and maybe the axel tubes too. You seem to have a good handle on how things were done by the factory, so I am curious to what you will do.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on June 09, 2021, 05:55:41 PM
As far as I know everything was left in the raw, and naturally flash rusted right away. The axle tubes are steel, mine were pitted in some parts too bad to go back natural. Which was a shame as some parts polished up perfect. The pumpkin is of course cast, and I am really happy with how mine is coming out. I have almost all of the rust off and the bare cast is showing very nice. I am having an internal debate right now to 'shark hide' or put a cast iron paste on like what is used on exhaust manifolds. I am going to paint the tubes a steel replicating colour. My cover is pitted pretty bad I was gonna clean, fill and paint but new ones dont cost that much so I am thinking that is the route I will go.

Yes, feeling a bit better, had a bad head cold and chest congestion. Hard to breathe for a couple of days with the heat and humidity.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on June 16, 2021, 06:04:08 AM
Still no motor news  :(, I wasnt planning on putting anything up until the rear was finished but since I had my flickr open.
Leaf spring mid resto. Rust remover, die grinder, and brass wheel. Still some work but I think they will be fine.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51250005298_bff9783d79_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2m5MF41)2021-06-15_07-26-44 (https://flic.kr/p/2m5MF41) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51248162034_163f6502f0_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2m5Ce7A)2021-06-14_05-09-53 (https://flic.kr/p/2m5Ce7A) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51250602859_47dee6804d_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2m5QJFM)2021-06-15_07-58-05 (https://flic.kr/p/2m5QJFM) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
Before and After of the brake caliper.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51247606443_6d41fc1fc5_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2m5znXr)2021-06-14_05-12-46 (https://flic.kr/p/2m5znXr) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
Partial pic of the rear. Diff is cleaned about as good as I can get it. Covered the bare with shark hide. Now I need to pull the axles so I can get the backing plates off, then I can paint the tubes.



Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: Jack on June 16, 2021, 07:29:21 AM
Nice work Kerry.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on June 16, 2021, 01:50:12 PM
Sure looks good Kerry. If you didn’t post the before pictures it would be hard to appreciate the transformation.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on July 16, 2021, 09:26:07 AM
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51305515299_ddfa0e0b3e_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2maGbeZ)2021-07-11_02-14-12 (https://flic.kr/p/2maGbeZ) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
Rear is all but ready for install. I sent out the backer plates and front mount cups to powder coat. Was supposed to be back by the 4th of July but still waiting. Once I have these I can finish this thing. Install, then put the fuel tank in.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on July 16, 2021, 09:27:28 AM
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51304050012_4ea34ee168_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mayEEq)2021-07-11_02-14-20 (https://flic.kr/p/2mayEEq) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr

Pile of parts on the work bench ready to go. New rotors, new calipers, got the prop shaft painted and ready to go.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on July 16, 2021, 09:31:25 AM
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51311727768_c4d4638268_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mbf1Zw)2021-07-14_02-45-14 (https://flic.kr/p/2mbf1Zw) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51311728023_2daa16a214_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mbf24V)2021-07-14_02-45-31 (https://flic.kr/p/2mbf24V) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr

These are the bolts from the backer plates. They were REALLY rusty. I soaked them in the rustoleum equivalent of evaporust. Sprayed it down with H2O and then hit with a wire wheel. I prefer using original hardware if possible, of the shelf stuff doesnt look right a lot of times. These were in good shape and I dont think they have a lot of stress so good to re-use. On the other hand I did use new u bolts and t bolts for the rear to spring mount.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on July 16, 2021, 02:03:21 PM
Looking good Kerry, all up to your usual high standards.

I agree with using original hardware if possible. I have seen the bolts that attach the subframe rust to less than half the original diameter. So for critical fasteners I understand the need to replace.

Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: NOT A TA on July 16, 2021, 07:54:36 PM
Nice job on the rear & parts! Did you fill & smooth the axle tubes & drive shaft? They look remarkably pit free.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on July 16, 2021, 08:09:28 PM
Yes, I used filler primer with several coats. Was gonna put a coat of glazing on decided against. Did the same for the back cover plate.  I was wanting to polish them back to bare steel (which they should be) but they were just too bad to do so with success. Same with the drive shaft.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: RamblerRacer on July 17, 2021, 06:19:42 AM
Looks great Kerry.  Glad you are able to continue to share this project with us.

JT
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: MNBob on July 18, 2021, 03:43:24 PM
Nice job on cleaning up those rusty parts!  I have done that before so I know it's some work.

I have a rehabbed factory bolt box where I put anything worth saving.  Some of them have built in washer heads or indented heads so they are nice and most are really strong too.

I also purchased a Cold Case radiator today so we will see how that works out.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on July 29, 2021, 06:39:32 AM
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51342799165_2696e5a243_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mdZgrg)2021-07-28_06-45-41 (https://flic.kr/p/2mdZgrg) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
Parts back from the powder coater. A bit rougher than I wanted. I was debating on sanding and filling and spray bomb painting but figured that would end up making these a $75 sand blast job. Not as pretty as I would like but in the end this is probably the closest anyone will ever see them.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on July 29, 2021, 06:44:25 AM
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51341783751_d96534f40e_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mdU4A8)2021-07-28_06-46-10 (https://flic.kr/p/2mdU4A8) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51342799895_d28b8a4a04_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mdZgDR)2021-07-28_06-46-18 (https://flic.kr/p/2mdZgDR) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51341784221_df7a00321c_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mdU4Je)2021-07-28_06-46-26 (https://flic.kr/p/2mdU4Je) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51342527839_66b794444b_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mdXSMe)2021-07-28_06-46-34 (https://flic.kr/p/2mdXSMe) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51342800775_9588cfe3d0_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mdZgV2)2021-07-28_06-46-42 (https://flic.kr/p/2mdZgV2) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr

I got calipers from Firebird central. They told me they are for camaro, a bit different than the stock I have but those are unobtanium. I have rebuild kits for mine and plan on doing so just because, but will use these in the meantime. I need to get the lines hooked up but it doesnt look like the ones I have, also from firebird central will bolt up without some major contortion. I may end up bending my own for this part. I still have plenty of material left so I wont fight with these too long. Once the lines are hooked up I believe I can finally get this back to the car then move forward.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on August 02, 2021, 05:14:57 AM
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51352194366_516bb70b81_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mePqiu)2021-08-02_07-07-14 (https://flic.kr/p/2mePqiu) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr

SUCCESS!!  Pretty nice weekend weather wise. A few hours on Sat and a few more on Sun and I was able to get the rear installed. I was able to get the impact gun to the old shackle on the pass side and it spun right off. Dr. side was a bit different. There isnt enough overhead room to get the gun in there so I had to resort to a grinder and cut that side out. Still not too big a deal. Once all was in I tried to hook up my drop links and found them to be about an inch too short. A side trip to the garage and take a look at my 77 confirmed I had the sway bar in upside down  :shock:  Fortunately its pretty easy to pull off. Now everything is new underneath  :grin: :grin:
Last big thing is the gas tank. Hoping by this time next week that will be finished as well.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on August 02, 2021, 05:16:56 AM
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51352936124_284bb60a5a_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2meTdNq)2021-08-02_07-06-59 (https://flic.kr/p/2meTdNq) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr

These are some of the old bushings I removed. As far as Im concerned anyone getting a trans am should at least check to see if theres have been replaced. My guess is that they havent been. I would hate to drive a car around on stuff that looks like this!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: Nexus on August 05, 2021, 06:52:19 AM
Great stuff
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: ryeguy2006a on August 05, 2021, 10:50:28 AM
That rear diff turned out fantastic Kerry!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on August 05, 2021, 02:43:05 PM
I guess I wasn’t paying attention. I see you got your differential installed, looks great. Is the car a roller now?
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: Jack on August 05, 2021, 04:13:21 PM
Good update and great progress.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on August 06, 2021, 07:35:50 AM
Thanks Jack. Almost Larry, I need to get the fuel tank installed (maybe this weekend) that should finish the underside. At that point my plan is to start on the weather stripping/interior parts of the car. Patiently waiting on news about my motor  :shock:
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on August 06, 2021, 06:49:30 PM
Seems like you are moving right along and have plenty to keep you busy. Hopefully your engine will be done soon, although engines always seem to take longer. It’s maybe little consolation but at least you have another TA to drive.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on August 08, 2021, 11:28:36 AM
Just because Im bored, I dont think I put any before pics in.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51365167846_96981aab6f_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mfXUSb)2021-08-08_12-58-51 (https://flic.kr/p/2mfXUSb) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51364411302_2102342f26_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mfU2Yj)2021-08-08_12-59-24 (https://flic.kr/p/2mfU2Yj) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51365903039_98af552b88_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mg2FpV)2021-08-08_12-59-16 (https://flic.kr/p/2mg2FpV) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51364410592_2ea1dd44aa_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mfU2L5)2021-08-08_12-59-05 (https://flic.kr/p/2mfU2L5) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on August 08, 2021, 03:53:42 PM
Seeing the before pictures makes me appreciate the after that much more.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on August 11, 2021, 07:54:27 AM
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51371096365_0928a69b20_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mguid2)2021-08-10_03-57-02 (https://flic.kr/p/2mguid2) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51370824124_e6b2da9075_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mgsUhd)2021-08-10_03-56-42 (https://flic.kr/p/2mgsUhd) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr

Gas tank installed!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on August 11, 2021, 08:43:55 AM
Not everyone cares or gets excited about the undercarriage of their car, but I do and can definitely appreciate everything you put into getting it done correctly. Looks great Kerry!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: ryeguy2006a on August 11, 2021, 10:06:35 AM
Looking great Kerry! Glad you got that strap figured out.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: FormTA on August 11, 2021, 11:49:41 AM
Dang! That looks amazing! Nice work. I wish mine was that clean!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on August 11, 2021, 03:03:09 PM
Thanks guys. Larry, a lot of the time as I am over analyzing I think to myself that I am the only one that will ever see what I am doing, and most likely the only that cares. Its good to hear from someone else. Makes a bit of overdoing it worthwhile.
As a response to Ryan, I was talking to him over the weekend when I was installing this thing.
It went pretty well but I couldnt get the strap tight enough for the bolt to catch. I found one in my stash 1/2" longer than supplied and it worked like a charm. Only had one though, so I had to wait for another day to get the other  bolt.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on August 11, 2021, 03:40:45 PM
Funny, I had the same problem when installing my new fuel tank from Tanks. I called them up and asked if my new tank might have a slightly larger diameter. They said no, OEM straps should work. So I figured the shape of my new tank was slightest different. I initially installed my new tank with slightly longer bolts stretching the straps into position and then reinstalled the original bolts. I think if the straps were just a little more flexible it wouldn’t have been an issue.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on August 11, 2021, 07:34:28 PM
I put a very thin piece of rubber as the 2 isolation strips on top of the tank, as well as I cut a narrow piece and put it between each strap and the tank. I thought this may have had a little to do with it. 
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: Gene-73 on August 11, 2021, 10:39:00 PM
I initially installed my new tank with slightly longer bolts stretching the straps into position and then reinstalled the original bolts. I think if the straps were just a little more flexible it wouldn’t have been an issue.

Similar experience here, although mostly because I went with a stainless steel tank and the stainless straps were way less flexible than the originals. Had a heck of a time getting the right length bolts and spacers.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: TATurbo on August 11, 2021, 10:39:10 PM
Looks great Kerry!
I get the attention to detail it looks awesome.
 Careful though...That level of niceness can lead to OCD type behaviors.
Even though I don't think my TA's done to your level, and I don't consider myself the detail type, I found that I can't help but wipe down the underside of my car whenever I'm under there now.  A couple weeks ago I had to replace the starter.  I caught myself taking a bottle of cleaner and a rag with me under the car, along with the requisite tools for the actual job.  :-P
Congrats on the progress. I can't wait to see your TATA!


 
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: Nexus on August 24, 2021, 06:34:34 AM
That's a nice looking backside you got there sir!!!   :grin:
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on September 26, 2021, 08:58:22 AM
Kerry,

I always wonder how you manage to get so much done while running a business but haven’t seen an update for a while. I hope your doing OK and still moving forward on your TATA.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on September 26, 2021, 10:35:45 AM
Hi Larry, Things are good, have been super busy with work, no garage time. Spent a couple of weekends looking for my new truck, now thats out of the way. Been doing the final clean out and move from  my small shop to the big shop. Small shop is being converted into a gym/lifting room for my son. Now the big shop is a mess with crap piled every where. I am ready to start working on the int. of the car. I got some sound deadening mat and some spray, been sitting in the box in my office for a few weeks now! I have all the weather strip and would like to get that stuff done. I also sent my dash bezel to Randy C for a restor. Now that the weather is cool I may get some 'shop time' in. Slow but sure Im still rolling along.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: wheels78ta on September 26, 2021, 07:46:38 PM
Great work.

I sent my Y88 dash bezel to RC and got it back in about 6 weeks.  He does excellent work.  I don't have any pics of the restore because they were on another computer that crashed.  But you won't be disappointed with the end result.

Did you ever get your motor back?
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on September 27, 2021, 05:51:30 PM
No news on the motor  :(  I really need to get on him about this thing. Squeaky wheel gets the grease! Randy did the bezel for my 77 and I was more than pleased with it. Familiar with his work and yes it is first rate.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on September 30, 2021, 07:15:31 AM
Temporary bad news on the motor. Hoping things will work out. Stay tuned...........
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: Nexus on September 30, 2021, 07:37:04 AM
EEEEGAD

There always seems to horror stories with engines. Everything is crossed in hopes it will turn out ok!!!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on October 21, 2021, 07:08:21 AM
No motor news yet.......
But, it seems like I have done a great job of lately collecting parts :shock: Figured no time better than now to get started. I bought a new windshield from Auto City Classics in Minn. Service was great and it came in less than a week. I had a chance to get the same part from the same vendor at Hershey a couple of weeks ago for $129. I had no way to cart it back to my truck parked miles away so I had to pass on the deal. With shipping to my house the same thing cost $299. Now Im looking for an installer.

Have started on the int. Got a package tray and headliner material from Ames. They sell the package tray as a replacement for 10th ann. cars, but its totally wrong!! The original is a crosshatched material (which I have re-ordered and its back ordered) so I will use the crappy one in the mean time if I need to.

I was thinking my headliner board was good, looking at it for all these years. But as typical it crumbled when I took it out. So I made a new one out of a piece of FRP panel. the panel is about an 1-1/4" too narrow so I 'glassed a piece on the back tab. I roughed it up and took the shine off with some 60gr on the orbital sander. Used 3m spray glue and all is good. I pulled my trim pieces out and remembered they all need replacing so another order off to Ames.

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51611517856_18b2b644e1_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mCJw99)2021-10-20_03-51-14 (https://flic.kr/p/2mCJw99) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
New windshield

I also ordered carpet and it has yet to arrive. I have been searching for the last couple of years for something that is correct for these cars with no luck, so I had to settle with what is now offered.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51611721848_8c0c60b271_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mCKyMf)2021-10-20_03-45-06 (https://flic.kr/p/2mCKyMf) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51610677837_82c69a6f6f_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mCEdr4)2021-10-20_03-45-44 (https://flic.kr/p/2mCEdr4) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51611724413_5bb029a93d_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mCKzxt)2021-10-20_03-45-57 (https://flic.kr/p/2mCKzxt) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51611725663_d1f08d1c98_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mCKzV2)2021-10-20_03-46-24 (https://flic.kr/p/2mCKzV2) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51611726438_44064ba9ea_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mCKA9o)2021-10-20_03-46-34 (https://flic.kr/p/2mCKA9o) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51610681092_df85759b57_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mCEepb)2021-10-20_03-46-47 (https://flic.kr/p/2mCEepb) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51611741863_dc1e39caaf_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mCKEJk)2021-10-20_03-51-26 (https://flic.kr/p/2mCKEJk) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr




Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on October 21, 2021, 07:11:52 AM
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51612386765_f026867a7d_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mCNYrk)2021-10-20_03-47-03 (https://flic.kr/p/2mCNYrk) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
Also found these in my box of parts. Took the buffer wheel and cleaned them up a bit for re-install

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51612387320_88e3bac4f4_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mCNYAU)2021-10-20_03-47-14 (https://flic.kr/p/2mCNYAU) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51612387705_e4ae3dac0c_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mCNYHx)2021-10-20_03-47-23 (https://flic.kr/p/2mCNYHx) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: FormTA on October 21, 2021, 07:19:35 AM
Nice! Mine are no that nice! If I ever need to change the T-top seal I may replace them.

Nice restoration there! You have home serious attention to detail here!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: Nexus on October 21, 2021, 07:42:40 AM
I'll need to do my headliner board too!!!

I saved the headliner material years ago and tossed the crappy cardboard (or whatever they use) it was attached too!!

looks good!!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on October 21, 2021, 09:28:01 AM
Headliner turned out nice. Getting rid of that rotten board and replacing it with new will help contribute to that new car smell once your finished. For sure it won’t have an old car smell. The window trim cleaned up nicely. I imagine if it wasn’t stainless, there wouldn’t be much left.

Looking back at your completed differential makes me envious, that really turned out well too.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on October 21, 2021, 11:08:06 AM
Thanks. Yes one of the things I dont like about an old car is the smell. I may be strange as some people I believe to love it. All of the soft parts on the inside contribute to it. Like my 77, everything will be new or refurbished. I will (and did) buy new seat foam and all for those as well. New insulation, new fabric, new all. When my wife got into the 77 the first time she complained that it smelled like an old car!, WTHeck!!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: ryeguy2006a on October 21, 2021, 12:26:29 PM
Nice work Kerry. That headliner turned out great!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: TATurbo on October 22, 2021, 10:11:24 PM
Looks great Kerry.
 Can you share more specifics about the FPR board you used for headliner backing?
 One of the projects on my winter to-do list is to try to make a set of shades for the T-Tops.  I've heard use of 'FPR' for headliner boards, but don't know where to find it or what specs (thickness or whatever) to look for.  T-Top shades aren't high on my list, but I'd like to have them as an option for Summer road trips where we might be on the interstate for long periods.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on October 23, 2021, 07:09:17 AM
The FRP is Fibreglass Reinforced Panel. You can get it at lowes or HD. Usually in the same area as paneling. Its typically used in lower end commercial kitchens, I have seen it line bathroom walls in gas stations and such and have even seen a guy that did his basement with it. Its only about an 1/8" thick, only comes one thickness as far as I know or at least what is on the shelf. It has a shiny pebble texture on the finish side and a dull smooth surface on the back. I glued the headliner to the shiny side after I took 60gr and knocked the shine and some of the pebble off.  Cuts easily with a vibrating tool. Tin snips will do the trick, razor knife with a lot of work, power saw etc.  The sheet I just bought was close to $40.

The stuff is very flexible. I used the same on my 77 and its holding up fine.

Funny you mention the shades. I still have the scraps of black material from my 77 that I was planning on making shades with. Had the same thought when I just did this one. Maybe I will go ahead and get the job done now that you have brought it up, LOL.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on October 23, 2021, 07:10:27 AM
Placed my order yesterday for more parts. Again, hurry up and wait. With my experience with Ames they should be on my step wed or thurs next week.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: Jack on October 23, 2021, 08:39:20 AM
I was one page behind... Looking good as always, I like the headliner work.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: MNBob on October 25, 2021, 07:27:56 AM
Great job on the headliner.  I ordered one pre-made, but it was short in the front left corner.

I am going to break down and order new carpet as well.  I was looking at Ames, where did you get it?

Your paint on the side panel looks good, that should come out nice when you get the stripes on.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on October 25, 2021, 02:38:45 PM
Yes, I ordered the carpet the from Ames, but they source it from ACC. I have looked through many suppliers over the last 2 years trying to locate the correct weave but had no luck. At the time I ordered they said it comes direct from their vendor (ACC) and should be to me in a week. 3 weeks on I am still waiting.

I found my t top trim and it was typically dryrotted and dusty. So I figured on ordering new. I restored the U hoop trim awhile ago and now that its installed I am not happy with it. Its ok, just not perfect. So I ordered all new trim from Ames as well as the dome light housing. Supposed to be here tomorrow.  Digging through my stash I found a pile of t top trim that came with the extra parts that was actually pretty decent. I suppose I will sell that stuff.

I inquired at Ames about door panels and they said 6 - 8 months!! I think I have found a pair but I just had a couple of big expenses, one daily driver car related and then the pressure tank on my well had to be replaced. So I will have to wait another week or so before I will place the order. Hopefully the place does have them in stock.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: another10th on October 25, 2021, 06:44:28 PM
In regard to the sun shades.... YoFab  (yofab.com) makes some very nice shades for the second gen cars with the Fisher tops. I have used them for several years and love them. They allow the A/C to work as it should on the really hot, sunny says.
Dale Shelton (cup holders for the purest on Facebook) also has sunshades for 2nd gen Fisher top cars. His appear to be quite similar to those from yofab.

Post up if you find correct carpet for the 10th. I've been looking for years. Attached is a label removed for an original carpet s
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: another10th on October 25, 2021, 06:46:35 PM
Also, here is a picture of the t-top shades

Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on October 26, 2021, 09:51:11 AM
Those shades look nice, I will have to look into them. Thanks for the carpet info. I have put it on file. I will continue my search. 1 fellow told me that he got carpet by the yard that was for a caddy of the same period. I tried a couple of caddy restorers, they were very helpful but alas no carpet.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on October 26, 2021, 09:56:00 AM
New trim parts came in today. All of the stuff looks nice, but I will have to dye it. Will start on that this evening. I also ordered all new  parts for the dome light, connectors, nuts, housing etc. But somehow I forgot to order the stupid $15 lense. I will have to put that on the to do list.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51629965512_d3570c7c71_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mEn4Zb)2021-10-26_11-46-00 (https://flic.kr/p/2mEn4Zb) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51629966037_790245090c_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mEn59e)2021-10-26_11-46-16 (https://flic.kr/p/2mEn59e) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51631011773_9fbcfe7fdd_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mEsr1a)2021-10-26_11-46-25 (https://flic.kr/p/2mEsr1a) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51631012088_6a5f8191a9_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mEsr6A)2021-10-26_11-46-36 (https://flic.kr/p/2mEsr6A) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr

A few parts ready to install. I thought I had lost one of the wire covers, but did manage to find it in my mess. I could only come up with one rear panel, but might have one in the works. Will report on that later. Getting real close to putting all of this stuff together now.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on October 26, 2021, 10:00:57 AM
I forgot to add, I placed an order for a pair of legendary door panels  :shock: OUCH!  Got them from NPD, only vendor that had a pair. I called Legendary and they had none in stock, said they may be able to get to them in June. I started to restore mine, and they were coming out nice. I was gonna have to have the carpet redone on the bottom anyway. Originally I was just planning on making this a decent driver car, but the deeper I get the more I seek for the best I can. I knew I would not be happy with the refurb panels.

Seat covers, well thats a different story!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: another10th on October 26, 2021, 04:31:10 PM
Since I still have the original carpet in the car, I removed the carpet from my original door pads and used it on the Legendary door pads. I had to have the carpet on the doors match the floor!
I also used Legendary seat covers and ACI foam buns. It was all expensive, and took a long time to get, but well worth it.

Taking the sunshades one step farther, Screaming Chicken Design (find them on Facebook) can make you a really nice two compartment bag to protect the sunshades when not in use. Similar to the t-top bags.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: scarebird on October 26, 2021, 06:29:28 PM
Make sure you ratchet up the e-brake before bleeding the system.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on October 27, 2021, 06:21:27 AM
Thanks Scarebird, will make a note of that.

Another10th,  one thing that bothers me when I see a resto is the carpet, and the bottom of the door panels. I have a used carpet I bought from someone here a number of years ago. Forgot whom that was, sorry.  I had even considered doing what you did. I thought about contacting Legendary and seeing if I sent them the carpet they could use that instead of new. But with their lead times   out 8 months now I dont want to wait. I still have that in the back of my mind though. I have been searching for used carpets as well and considered piecing together to make a good one. Again no luck with that either.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: another10th on October 27, 2021, 07:10:44 AM
Roadking77,
I agree about seeing the low pile carpet in a restored 10th. And as I said before, it bothers me to see low carpet on the door pads, and the correct carpet on the floor. The carpet on the doors was swapped out by my upholsterer. The only hard part (he said) was retaining the map pocket.
My original carpet is not too bad. Most of the wear is near the left kick panel, on top of the e-brake cable, and against the transmission tunnel, near the accelerator pedal.
I'm not sure that I could piece a set together. I could never keep the grain going the same direction on each piece!
That carpet was reproduced a number of years ago by Trim Parts. It was better than what was available previously, but still not quite right. It seems that the availability of that carpet has long since dried up. There have been discussions about it on this forum before.
Good luck, and post up if you find anything!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on November 01, 2021, 10:01:06 AM
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51646254257_730c985e4e_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mFNy4B)2021-11-01_11-51-25 (https://flic.kr/p/2mFNy4B) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
Door panels got here friday. They are really nice, and should be  :shock: I checked back on the sight just out of curiosity and now they show 0 in stock. I am pretty sure these were the last pair in the country. Lucked out this time around. Got all of my t top trim dyed and ready to install. I am at my limit with flickr if they let me download any more pics I will post.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: ryeguy2006a on November 01, 2021, 11:09:33 AM
Glad you lucked out Kerry! You know there is some guy that's two weeks behind your schedule cursing right now because of the zero inventory haha.  :P

As for Flickr, I hit my limit and just opted to pay the $49.99 per year. I get a lot value for that money by posting up my pictures. I do it once a year and otherwise don't think about it.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on November 01, 2021, 12:18:22 PM
Kerry,

Glad you were able to get your hands on a set of the coveted door panels. I noticed they did the cutout for the inside door release but not the power door lock switch. I thought every TATA came loaded with most the options, but maybe not power door locks. I have seen many factory cars where the PD switch looks crooked. So maybe legendary did you a favor by allowing you to make sure the cutout is done correctly.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on November 01, 2021, 12:46:50 PM
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51646601612_c317777396_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mFQkju)2021-11-01_02-23-32 (https://flic.kr/p/2mFQkju) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51647434046_fd2e16a100_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mFUALN)2021-11-01_02-23-20 (https://flic.kr/p/2mFUALN) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr

On a whim I got my windshield installed today. I asked the guy that does my glass work for an install price. He had to add in travel time as he is about 45 min away, the price was over $400. I thought that was too much. Then thought, maybe I can do it myself. He gave me the name of a fellow that is much closer that he sends work to occasionally. I called him, he doesnt do auto stuff but gave me another number. SO, I called this guy, he said $135 and could do it today. Just by chance I am home today so things worked out. Only down side he said he could have the same piece of glass delivered to his shop next day for as low as $85!  I over paid a bit, but what the heck. Its done now.

Larry, I know what you mean by the cut outs. When I did my 77 one of the most nerve wracking thing to do was to cut the door panels. Not looking forward to it this time around.  I will add these are Legendary assembled, which are a bit nicer than the PUI. Not that it makes that much difference because you cant get those either.  I think I did see a pair of Legendary un assembled some place but cant remember off hand whom it was. Now if I can track down my missing carpet I will be in business.

Ryan, I get the pop up message about upgrading to pro. I dont have a problem paying the price, but I am old fashioned. Im not keen on giving my cc info on the phone. I suppose its just as safe as the computer though.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on November 01, 2021, 12:47:33 PM
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51647484056_9a65bc4cce_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mFURD3)2021-11-01_02-45-20 (https://flic.kr/p/2mFURD3) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr

Trim all painted and ready to go.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: T/A Addict on November 01, 2021, 02:14:12 PM
I forgot to add, I placed an order for a pair of legendary door panels  :shock: OUCH!  Got them from NPD, only vendor that had a pair. I called Legendary and they had none in stock, said they may be able to get to them in June. I started to restore mine, and they were coming out nice. I was gonna have to have the carpet redone on the bottom anyway. Originally I was just planning on making this a decent driver car, but the deeper I get the more I seek for the best I can. I knew I would not be happy with the refurb panels.

Seat covers, well thats a different story!

Soooo seat covers, What is your plan on those?
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on November 02, 2021, 06:41:36 AM
Good Question?
Current plan is to have something custom made by a local shop, IF as Bob Barker would say "the price is right".

Second option would be to get a deluxe int in silver (non TATA) as per you question in another thread.

Third option would be to get a deluxe int in another colour.

Last on the list is correct 10th seats. This may be counter intuitive considering my build, but I cant stand the silver seats in the TATA. When these cars came out I thought they were the coolest until you looked inside. To me they look cheap, quite the opposite though!  Before I spend a couple of grand on the correct int. I will pay to have something custom to my liking. I will worry about correctness IF and when I decide to sell.

At this time it may be awhile before I get to the seats. My car budget is just about drained at the time being. And I still have my motor to deal with.  If nothing else I have a set of black hobnail that are in ok condition I can use as a last resort.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: ryeguy2006a on November 02, 2021, 10:01:57 AM
Nothing wrong with running incorrect seats Kerry. Heck, look at my car. I drove around for 3 years with the original white seats in a car with all black interior! I was surprised that not one person at a car show mentioned it either.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: T/A Addict on November 11, 2021, 07:48:57 AM
Sorry if I missed it Kerry but what are the correct colors and products you are using to paint the seat backs, interior panels, etc?
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on November 11, 2021, 03:54:39 PM
At one time I knew the numbers off the top of my head, but I am a couple of years older :shock:  I will get a quick look and post, just check back here, same bat time same bat channel.

On the brighter side I did get my carpet in, ACC, colour looks good but weave is nowhere even close. BUT, that much was expected. Will have to live with it until something better comes along. I also tried to put the window trim on the front. That is a major PIA. I had one side clipped in nice and tight, went across the top, clipped the pass side in and the dr side popped off  :sad: I didnt have my glasses and could barely see what I was doing, I was also just passing through and thought it would be a quick simple job to look like I got something done. WRONG. Need to go back and attack with a better attitude and some car time. Been super busy with work and no spare time. This time every week I say to myself, "I am going to get car work done this weekend".
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: FormTA on November 12, 2021, 04:16:09 AM
That trim is a PITA. My palms were bruised for a week after I installed mine new metal clips or reshaped originals help.

Again, so sorry I haven't been able to get those panels cleaned up for you yet. I did find a box at work I think will work though. Maybe this weekend I get out there. We don't have many more days until it really cold here and I can't get stuff done outside (at least comfortably) so the wife has had me on projects in my free time....
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on November 12, 2021, 07:53:02 AM
I hear ya Luke. I know you didnt completely forget me, I didnt want to bother you. No big rush. Every friday I will think of what I can get done on Saturday. Then friday night or saturday morning my wife will say 'we need to run to .......... or I want to get ..........done today!  Before I know, its monday morning again. I keep telling her that my weekends keep getting consumed with her hobbies. One of them we are all going to the shop and work on my car! lol. But you know how that works out :grin:
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on November 15, 2021, 12:22:14 PM
I got the front and back window trim on the other day. With the help of my glasses so I could see what I was doing it went ok. I put a small strip of tape at each clip so I knew where to beat  :???: Then when I had one side set, I taped it in place so it would not pop back off. I then tapped at each clip with a rubber mallet. They snapped on pretty good. I think the problem may be the windshield is set a fraction too high. Everything clipped down tight but when I did the back window which is original to the car the trim sits just a bit lower.

Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on November 15, 2021, 12:26:04 PM
Interior trim colours for the light gray which is everything but the dash and kick panels, SEM 15183(warm gray).  The dash and kick panels which are a bit darker is SEM 15393(medium gray).  I use SEM 13023 low lustre clear top coat.

I have checked these colours against the backside of original parts that were not subject to fading as much and they are just about perfect for a match. There may be other brands but I have had good luck with SEM.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: MNBob on November 15, 2021, 03:25:43 PM
Catching up:
1.  Those Legendary door panels look really good!
2.  Your painted/dyed trim parts came out nice.
3.  What I didn't like about the 10th seats is they were hard leather and slippery.  I have the cloth now with the 300ZX seats and it is very comfortable, but I often wondered if there was a gray/silver velour cloth from another Firebird that would work with the original seats.  Go with what you like, it doesn't have to be original.
4.  I got the new windshield a few years ago and it really makes the car feel newer over the old pitted one.

Congrats on your progress.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: TATurbo on November 18, 2021, 07:53:11 PM
Haven't checked in here in a while...Looks like things are moving right along huh?
I think I'm the one who brought up the T-Top shades, so thanks to everyone for the input on materials and sources.  In my 'Custom' red '81 interior, I found the closest match to the original headliner color, pattern, and appearance was a material listed as being for a Fox-body Mustang.  I'm going to look into the sources you guys noted are making shades, but ultimately I'll need to recover them or make my own in order for them to match.
 
Congrats on finding the door panels in stock.  They look awesome!  Not sure why it came up earlier, but if someone was asking about Legendary door panels assembled vs. unassembled...I used Legendary's unassembled panels in my car ('81 Turbo).  So, if anyone has any questions...Hit me up.

FWIW, I agree with everyone else regarding the original silver interiors in the TATA's.  I'm not a huge fan, except (if I remember correctly) they had a bird embroidered in the middle of the rear seats. Which I did like.  I WAS a huge fan of the red instrument panel lighting though.  I remember the first time I saw one lit up.  I was hanging outside a 7th grade school dance when some guy pulled up in a TATA.  Already a TA fan, I walked over to check it out. For some reason, the red lights on the dash really stuck in my little pubescent head. It's still my favorite look today. When it came time to have my '81 gauges refurb'd I had AutoInstruments reproduce the TATA illumination.  (The 'cups' behind the gauges are a florescent pink instead of light blue)

Anyway...The interior is where you're spending your time so I'm all for customizing it to your liking.

Congrats on the progress! Looks great!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on November 21, 2021, 09:31:59 AM
I posted in the lobby but will post here as well. Spoke with my motor guy the other day. The machine shop is finishing things up now. He should have the parts back within a week. At which time he said it would not take more than a few weeks to finish it up. I dropped it off on Jan 4 or 5. Will see if he can get it done before its been a year.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on January 23, 2022, 09:36:49 AM
Hey Kerry,

I know you have been busy running your business and outdoor temps have been less than ideal for working in your shop. I hope you are well and know you will give us some updates once you have time to devote to your TATA.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on January 25, 2022, 08:13:42 AM
Hi Larry, yes the T/A has been neglected for far too long. We have been extremely busy with work which is good. I had some furniture in the shop that needed refinished (I picked it up in July and by coincidence to this thread we are delivering it back today!) and once I started that I covered the car up pretty tight to keep overspray off. So it has been tucked away in bed for the last couple of months. My engine builder called yesterday and left a message. I have not listened to it yet but will within the next hour or so. Hope its good news.

I have been doing some upgrades to the shop making it a bit more woodworker friendly and getting some more electric added. I am going to pull the radiant heater out of my car garage and put in the shop. It was never hooked up so its just ceiling art at this point. I may as well put it to good use.

I have amassed quite a few parts in fact I keep finding stuff I forgot I ordered. I want to get back to work on the car asap. Now that I have the shop cleared out a bit, and football season is over I may start to get some work done. I wanted to have it on the road by early fall last year, I am going to shoot for late summer this time around.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on February 08, 2022, 08:12:01 AM
Have not worked on the car for a long time, but the engine builder is looking for some parts and wanted to know what colour to paint? Supposed to have the rotating assembly done at this point  :smile: , Although I have not seen it.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: ryeguy2006a on February 08, 2022, 01:14:06 PM
That's good news Kerry! Having the engine complete will be a huge motivator.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: Jack on February 08, 2022, 06:11:02 PM
Nice but no reds okay Kerry :lol:
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: FormTA on February 09, 2022, 05:05:13 AM
That is great news!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: kentucky yeti on February 09, 2022, 07:27:42 AM
Yay for engines!  That's good to hear, for sure.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on February 09, 2022, 07:56:04 AM
13 months and counting  :shock:  BUT, it was not too long ago that I thought this thing was lost forever. Its nice to know its back in his shop and going together. I gave it to him in pieces, which was the way it came to me. So now I am getting calls every morning of yet another part that he needs. I am sure he is frustrated not having everything there at one time, and I feel bad about it but I suppose its just holding me up in the long run. Im not sure which shop its at (he has 3) I have been passing one on a daily basis. I would like to get a pic.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on February 09, 2022, 08:15:03 AM
Good news on your engine, I think the saying is nothing good ever comes easy. Not sure what pieces you are missing, fortunately everything is available new or used. Looking forward to pictures.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on February 09, 2022, 01:25:07 PM
Mostly hardware stuff, just got a call and it was kinda short, but I think he said the intake was bad. So add another to the parts needed list  :( 

Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on February 10, 2022, 04:02:47 PM
Intake cracked in 2 places. So I ordered a performer from edelbrock. I looked into them awhile ago and from what I found the stock Pontiac performed just as well with the biggest advantage of aftermarket being the weight savings. I had my mind made up I wanted to stick with the stock piece. Oh well, the best laid plans.......... Ordered from Summit, the part I need has a ship date of maybe Feb 23. So the delays begin.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: FormTA on February 17, 2022, 03:12:09 PM
Kerry, you should be receiving a present for the 10th on Tuesday.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on February 18, 2022, 08:04:09 AM
 :grin: :grin:
Presents are nice!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on March 14, 2022, 07:58:42 AM
So, I had to order a few more parts, some fasteners, internal parts etc. Manifold is still being delayed. The new ship date is the end of March. I ordered new rocker covers from summit. They are supposed to be 'exact' replacements. Back ordered, big surprise there, not. No estimate on shipping then yesterday morning when I got up there was a package on the stoop, valve covers ( I think). The box is still sitting on the pile of boxes in my office unopened. Hope to drop them off to the shop today. I have been told the motor is almost finished and this last order of parts may button things up. I am not sure what to expect though. When he did the 400 for my 77 it was a complete job installed. I am planning on installing this one in the 79. Not sure what his idea of a 'finished' motor is going to be. I am assuming running and he hinted that he wanted to put it on the dyno before he let it go so I figure we are on the same page.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: ryeguy2006a on March 15, 2022, 10:42:48 AM
Hang in there Kerry, the finish line is in sight!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on March 15, 2022, 11:29:15 AM
Kerry,

Looking forward to pictures once you have picked up your engine. Even though you have done this many times I am sure you're getting excited. It seems like it always takes longer than anticipated.

About 30 years ago a good friend added a larger kitchen and great room to his house. We were busy with our kids and jobs, so we did not get together often. As we are walking through his house looking at the progress, he said I am having a BBQ in the summer to celebrate the completion and your invited. Several years go by an I never hear back from him, other than annual Christmas cards. I said to my wife I wonder why he didn't invite us. One day we were in his neighborhood and stopped by to say hello. His project was 90% done but still not complete. I said I thought maybe you were mad at me or just forgot to invite me for the BBQ. His answer was " I said a BBQ in the summer, I just didn't say what year"!

He finally had the BBQ about 15 years after he started to project when his oldest son graduated high school. In his defense he ran his own business and often worked seven days a week. Having said that I am amazed when people with busy lives find time to take on huge projects like a total restoration and find time to get them done.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on March 15, 2022, 03:03:52 PM
That sounds about like my pace around the house Larry. Well not quite that bad or I would have been divorced long ago. My wife drives me hard to get things done. Spring has started to be sprung so looks like theres going to be plenty of outside work to get caught up on.

For the motor, I did get a text today from summit that my order has shipped. The only thing I know of that is currently ordered is my intake. That would be good to get.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: FormTA on March 16, 2022, 09:46:10 PM
That's what you say and then some random part shows up that you forgot you even ordered.... at least that's how it's been for me.... The Amazon van has been here every day.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on March 17, 2022, 09:57:53 AM
Luke, I have not forgot about you  :grin:,lol. The big box sits in front of my desk and I stare at it every day. I have  purposely not moved it yet until remittance is made. Im afraid if it goes to the shop it will be forgotten.
 
As far as packages, I am usually pretty good about what I order, my problem is that I tend to order stuff that I know I need and that is within my budget at the time. So this means I may order an interior piece years before I need it. I End up with stuff scattered every where and me not knowing what I do and dont have. I have ordered multiples more than a couple of times. Every 6 months or so I vow to get better organized with my resto but something always comes up. My business is well organized and I can tell someone down to what kind of screws are in what box in my shop, but car parts...... thats another story.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: MNBob on March 19, 2022, 12:40:45 PM
Even though the Performer gets bashed regularly over on PY, I ordered one for pairing with my Sniper and I have been quite happy with it.  The RPM version would not match my basically stock engine and my driving habits.  See what you think.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: FormTA on March 20, 2022, 06:25:59 AM
Kerry, I'm not worried nor am I scraping pennies.

I too have duplicated and sometimes quadruplicated orders. My door handles were one that I must have ordered them twice like 10 years ago or more when I first was working on my car and then did it again once I had the paint finished.  Good thing though as most of them turned out to be junk and I ended up with only one set I could use.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on March 21, 2022, 06:50:15 AM
Bob, I have a performer on my 77 and that motor runs just fine. I dont mind using one, but it would have been cheaper to use the original and for this car I was trying to keep it aesthetically stock. Count down is on, its supposed to be on my stoop today.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on March 22, 2022, 02:22:23 PM
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51955249154_5ba11ea90f_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2na7etQ)2022-03-22_04-17-55 (https://flic.kr/p/2na7etQ) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51955014283_a737928cc6_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2na62Ek)2022-03-22_04-18-09 (https://flic.kr/p/2na62Ek) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr

Got a welcome package in the mail yesterday. Manifold finally arrived. I ordered it sometime early feb and it has been on backorder. I forget the model no. offhand but this one is supposed to be compatible with the stock shaker height. Also got the new valve covers in one day last week. Both orders came from Summit. The covers were very pricy compared to some others but are supposed to be 'restoration correct'. They do look pretty nice from what I can tell. Both were dropped off to the builder this morning. I have been told he is close to finishing the motor and desperately needed these parts. Fingers crossed!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on March 22, 2022, 03:26:31 PM
Kerry,

Great eye candy, you're getting close to having an engine! Are you going to paint the intake manifold or leave it natural  aluminum?
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: kentucky yeti on March 23, 2022, 04:57:28 AM
Shiny parts  :-D   Glad the intake finally arrived.  That's the same one I run on my '69.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on March 23, 2022, 07:07:34 AM
I will most likely paint it. Its too pretty at this point to do so though :shock: I prefer a stock look to my cars and not much about the bling. One of the reason trans ams are so nice, NO CHROME!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: silver78 on March 23, 2022, 04:56:13 PM
pieces and parts AWSOME! One step closer to done.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: Jack on March 23, 2022, 05:15:12 PM
I will most likely paint it. Its too pretty at this point to do so though :shock: I prefer a stock look to my cars and not much about the bling. One of the reason trans ams are so nice, NO CHROME!

I agree but do like what little chrome the earlier 2nd gens have.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: FormTA on March 24, 2022, 09:30:07 AM
They don't need chrome with all the Tupperware and bird on the hood. They already scream, "look at me".  :grin:
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: TATurbo on March 24, 2022, 09:21:44 PM
One of the things I've missed having 'finished' my car is the relatively frequent parts unboxing. 
Those'll look nice framing the shaker!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on March 25, 2022, 07:03:51 AM
I like getting boxes and opening them, makes everyday like Christmas, I just dont like the credit card statement at the end of the month :shock: :shock:
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: Nexus on March 28, 2022, 06:31:56 AM
That is exciting news all around. Been quite the wait for that engine to be done!!

New parts are always fun!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on March 31, 2022, 07:48:53 AM
I would make a great doctor, I have plenty of patience!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on May 05, 2022, 05:33:55 AM
Update of no news :sad: :sad:
I look back on this thread for 2 reasons, one so I dont slip back a page and B so I can see the timeline. I called my engine builder the other day to see if he was making any progress. "I havent had time to turn around lately so no" was his answer. Again another disappointment. I started the internal debate in my head again about picking up the parts and finishing it myself. I figure if the rotating assembly is done that should be the hard part, right  :???: BUT, I am so busy that IF I got it today, it will be at least August before I would have any time to even think about working on it. SO, the realist in me says, let it stay where it is for now and MAYBE he will get to it before now and August!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on May 05, 2022, 06:23:11 AM
Kerry,

This has to be more than a little disappointing for you. I somehow got the impression the engine was almost done. It’s possible your builder senses your lack of urgency and moved it down on his list of priorities. If your engine was sitting in your shop and ready to be installed, you might be spending more time on your TATA. On the other hand since you are self employed being busy is a good thing. But all work and no play is not healthy either. I hope you can still find time to ride one of your motorcycles or take out your 77.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on May 05, 2022, 03:49:24 PM
Yea, I am at the point in my life that I try to take things a bit easier. I stopped working 6 days a week a few years ago. Saturday and Sunday are my time, but I do admit that since last winter I have been spending extra time in the shop doing work stuff on my time off. I have had the 77 out for the last 5 weeks going to shows and am just about burnt out at this point. I did finally get my bike out a couple of weeks ago when we had a beautiful Sunday afternoon.

It would be nice to have the 79 finished so I can punish myself with the next project but its also nice to have another car to enjoy whilst waiting.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: Nexus on May 07, 2022, 04:14:42 PM
Hard to stay motivated when things stall out, especially when your busy.

It'll work out one way or the other!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: MNBob on May 09, 2022, 09:12:03 AM
Yes, when mine stalls a bit, I look at the larger perspective:  This is a hobby!  The main point is to have fun with it, whether you like doing the work or cruising around in the result.

I am back at it this year, but as usual there are a lot other things that need attention like the house.  Still, I am going to keep finding time to work on the TA.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on May 10, 2022, 06:55:49 AM
I dont usually have a problem with motivation, just time. I am completely motivated about 24 hrs a day :grin: The good news with this car languishing in the barn for so long is that I have the 77 I can take out whenever I want and enjoy the ride. The frustrating part with the 79 is that it is SO CLOSE to being finished and the situation is out of my control temporarily. That is one of the reasons why I prefer to do all of my own work, so I have no dependance on anyone but myself. The other thing is I have another project lined up that I am excited to get started on, but need to get this one done first.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: kentucky yeti on May 10, 2022, 07:49:05 PM
The other thing is I have another project lined up that I am excited to get started on, but need to get this one done first.

Like those girls in high school ( a long time ago).  You're just a "Tease!"
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on May 11, 2022, 05:32:22 AM
 :lol: :lol: :lol:
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: RamblerRacer on May 22, 2022, 04:02:47 PM
Kerry,

Sorry to hear of the continuing delays in your engine rebuild.
I get your comments about the getting sidetracked  and burnout I guess you can call it.
I have to get back to my TA project and visiting here for the first time in a long while is making me think I just have to get to it.

I think I started to rebuild my thread and get was a second crash maybe?
I rebuild it again and hopefully start the process to finish it up. I got a bit down about it but hearing about how guys here are persevering got me a bit motivated to get going again.

JT
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on May 23, 2022, 01:37:35 PM
Keep moving forward JT, its all we can do.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on July 11, 2022, 06:24:26 AM
No news on the motor  :sad:  Honestly have not had the desire to call the guy. He is big into drag racing and now is his busy season.

BUT, after several years on the road, and running great! I finally glued the weather strip in the trunk channel on my 77 TA. The glue has been sitting on my desk for the last 2 months. I suppose all of the stars aligned yesterday, LOL.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: MNBob on July 18, 2022, 07:15:42 AM
Sometimes just doing a small job like that can motivate you in the car area. It is also nice to have a TA to drive.  I have been driving mine and it has been fun except when filling up for gas!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: FormTA on July 18, 2022, 07:35:10 AM
That's funny, I haven't glued mine either....
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on August 03, 2022, 05:53:42 AM
I wanted to wait until it was a definite and not more speculation, but since this area is slow and its been awhile since I have had a post on this thread,

I got in touch with my engine builder on Monday. I have been wanting to for some time but have been way too busy. I very politely asked if he had intentions of finishing my motor and would it be done soon, if not let me know and I would pick up the parts (19 months and counting). His reply was an apology, and that 'a needed part came in last Friday, now he can get things buttoned up'.  Said he should be finished in a couple of weeks.

Its in writing here, so that makes it official  :grin:
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: Steve B on August 03, 2022, 07:30:01 AM
Sounds like The Money Pit movie..."Two weeks".
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on August 03, 2022, 08:26:55 AM
It sounds like your engine build has been low on his priority list. Time will tell if he is sincere or not. I and many others at TAC are pulling for you Kerry. 🤞
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: tajoe on August 03, 2022, 02:25:16 PM
Almost "2"! years for a rebuild? Insane. If he doesn't finish in a week or 2, let me know. I'll have my friend "Guido Knuckles" pay him a visit.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: kentucky yeti on August 11, 2022, 05:46:18 AM
One week down!


 His reply was an apology, and that 'a needed part came in last Friday, now he can get things buttoned up'.  Said he should be finished in a couple of weeks.

Its in writing here, so that makes it official  :grin:

Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on August 12, 2022, 07:22:39 AM
Trust me Mike, I am counting  :shock:
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: tajoe on September 18, 2022, 08:12:58 PM
And the count has passed. What's the excuse for the engine now? Or have you got it?
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on September 23, 2022, 06:04:51 AM
No engine yet :shock:  I have been working out of town, busier than ever and little time to do much. I have kind of been giving him the benefit of the doubt, but I know the real answer will be something like 'its getting close' or 'will be finished any day now'. I should have some free time this afternoon may give him a call. I am sure the reality is that he either hasnt touched it yet or just started on it last month when I brough the subject up.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on September 23, 2022, 09:12:04 AM
Bummer!

Lots of us share your frustration with this. I guess it’s a good thing you are busy with work.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on September 23, 2022, 07:15:11 PM
OK, so I reached out today. The latest is that its almost finished but he is waiting on push rods. 'The last 2 sets came in wrong' and he is waiting on the correct parts at this point.

Yes, Larry, as much as I want to get this project back on track realistically I have zero time right now to do any work on it. A blessing and a curse, LOL.

I did get new visors for my 77 installed :grin: One of the few things that had been left unfinished.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: Jack on October 02, 2022, 06:23:37 AM
Agree... but you'll find the time if you have the engine.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: tajoe on October 02, 2022, 06:52:04 AM
Maybe you'll have the motor as an early Christmas present.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on October 02, 2022, 08:03:56 AM
At this point I will be glad to have it AS a Christmas present :shock:

I cant remember the time line now but it was Aug or Sept, when he told me a couple of weeks. I thought, OH Crap, I better get manifolds ordered. So I called Ram Air and ordered a set. They said it would be Oct before they were ready to ship. At the time that sounded like an eternity!!  I need to start checking back with them now :???:

Yes, Jack you are correct. If I had the motor ready to install I def. could squeeze in a few hours a week to make things happen.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on October 02, 2022, 03:45:44 PM
Kerry, seems like you were hoping to have your engine done by last Christmas. This time it sounds like it could happen.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: RamblerRacer on October 02, 2022, 05:21:44 PM
I've been lurking and seeing your motor woes over the past year.
I hate to see it for you Kerry, but hopefully it all turns out OK.
JT
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on October 03, 2022, 07:18:56 AM
Maybe Christmas 2023! 
I have set my sites back to next summer though, that is hoping my motor shows up within the next 4 or 5 months!! There really isnt that much to do other than getting the motor installed and final hookups. I know with myself doing that it will take several months though. I guess I should name this car COVID!  The timeline is about the same as my son said when that dreaded flu came out. March of 2020 when it really started to hit us stateside I made a comment to my son that I thought by the fall (2020) it would be behind us. He laughed and said if its gone by 2023 we will be lucky!  I think he was right on that one.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on October 17, 2022, 06:39:59 AM
I had a face to face with the builder on Friday. Same story nothing new to tell. He is still waiting on push rods. He did 'assure' me that once they come in he can be finished in a couple of days. I am planning on doing the install myself so once it does get back it may take me all winter to get things put together. Dale did say he would be more than happy to stop by on a weekend or evening and help me with the install. I was hoping Minn. Bob may loan me one of his motors in the meantime  :grin:
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: MNBob on October 17, 2022, 03:48:38 PM
Ha Ha!  I have one and spare and I am keeping them.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: Jack on November 06, 2022, 04:47:13 AM
Came here to see some good news but I guess some (dare I say good news) is better than no news.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on November 07, 2022, 09:27:16 AM
Not much going on Jack. I was really hoping to have this car out of the shop by winter so I can get a start on my next project, but things didnt work out. I talked to the motor guy a month or so ago and am still waiting. Between the vacation I just took and my tax bill it was a bit of a blessing the motor wasnt ready last month!, LOL.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on December 20, 2022, 07:41:08 AM
Uneventful update to keep me on the front page. I had a long conversation with the builder a week and half ago. I simply asked him to be upfront and honest with me. If he has time to finish the motor in the VERY near future and if not I will gather the pieces and look elsewhere. As I have said before this is kinda cutting my nose off to spite my face being I know the guys work and it is fantastic. But enough is enough. For the past couple of months he was waiting on push rods. He got a couple of sets in that were wrong, so I was told. After our conversation he said he had the motor together and needed the carb (which because of it being worth its weight in gold has been on my workbench for the last 2 years), distributor and water pump. I told him to pick up the dizzy, and I ordered a water pump from Summit. It was supposed to be here on Sat, last tracking said package is delayed. I also ordered the plate and mounting hardware, gaskets from Ames and have yet to get any of that. I get most of my stuff from Ames and it usually takes 4 or 5 days, but this time is a bit longer. I guess its holiday traffic. So, with all that said I am hoping my next post will have pics of a freshly rebuilt motor  :grin:
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: FormTA on December 20, 2022, 07:03:30 PM
Great update! I hope you get your Christmas wish!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: formula46two on December 20, 2022, 08:58:49 PM
This is so much like my odyssey except mine has been going on since I think 1999. But like you I am seeing the light!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: Jack on December 21, 2022, 06:59:37 AM
Sounds promising hopefully all goes well.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on December 21, 2022, 07:01:20 AM
Yikes, 23 years is even too much for me, LOL.
All the parts came in yesterday, so off to the shop this morning  :-?
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on December 21, 2022, 07:54:27 AM
Kerry, it seems like you have been waiting for you engine almost as long as I have been a member of TAC. It sounds like it’s really close to being done. Many of us are hoping you get your Christmas miracle! Or close to it.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on December 22, 2022, 07:07:45 AM
I know I said next post would have a pic  :sad:, but I dropped off what I hope were the last of the missing parts yesterday. I was able to talk to the builder as he was on site (he has 3 busy shops and its hard to pin him down to one place). He said everything was together and went on to tell me how happy he was with the final result, being my block was nothing but rust when he started. Being this weekend is Christmas, I asked him if he though he would have it done within the next month. He ASSURED me it was all but finished and ready to roll. One thing I dropped off was the carb, and he said that is the weak point right now. He needs to clean and rebuild that. Also asked if I had ex. manifolds  :shock: :shock:, he needs them in place to run the motor on the dyno  :grin:
I might have a set of stock he can use, if not he thinks he has a set of headers for the time being.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: Jack on December 22, 2022, 07:24:18 AM
All sounds positive. I wish I was near you, I have a W72 carb that I got from tajoe all ready to go but never installed in my 71 that has the matching engine, I could have let you run it until yours was done.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: rkellerjr on December 22, 2022, 10:02:06 AM
Whew, your a patient man Kerry. On the bright side, it is winter now. Get the car buttoned up and ready for the spring car scene!  We also want video's, not just pics.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on December 25, 2022, 07:44:12 AM
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52582198666_f91e06ae4e_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2o7vvJb)2022-12-23_07-32-42 (https://flic.kr/p/2o7vvJb) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr

At least I got a picture on Christmas Eve!  I am starting to get a bit excited now. Needs a colour correction but other than that I am happy. Cant wait to see and hear it running.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on December 25, 2022, 07:57:22 AM
Wow, It looks great. Now the fun begins. For me it’s very satisfying assembling shiny new parts.

Merry Christmas!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: Jack on December 25, 2022, 02:57:37 PM
That's a huge step forward, congrats Kerry.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: wheels78ta on December 25, 2022, 07:42:30 PM
That's a picture worth framing.

What color correction?
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: MNBob on December 26, 2022, 08:36:48 AM
Wow, that looks nice.  Can't wait til you get it back.  Definitely worth the wait!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on December 26, 2022, 09:39:19 AM
To the best of my knowledge it should be a solid colour medium blue, not the metallic that he painted it. The worst part is I had already finished the oil pan and gave him the can of paint I used  :? I will give him a call in the morning.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on December 26, 2022, 09:45:36 AM
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50703185291_fd8c89278c_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kft5vR)2020-12-10_12-45-25 (https://flic.kr/p/2kft5vR) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50702448828_55deb3dfdc_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kfpiAd)2020-12-10_12-45-11 (https://flic.kr/p/2kfpiAd) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
This is what the pile of *&*(* looked like when I delivered a couple of years ago. All components that the car left the factory with. The block looked like it had been stored under water for quite a few years. My biggest fear was that it would not be serviceable. He said they had to go over it a few times but it all worked out in the end. Original intake was cracked so I had to go with an aluminum aftermarket.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: FormTA on December 26, 2022, 08:19:56 PM
Wow! It does exist!! I was worried you were just getting lip service and the engine was scrapped or sold.  Now I'm excited to see this project rolling!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: Jack on December 28, 2022, 05:58:25 AM
As you may have guessed I like the early year Pontiac engine color and would recommend to leave it alone.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on December 28, 2022, 06:30:00 AM
Kerry, I completely understand where you are coming from wanting to keep the car as original as possible. Having the correct engine color is part of that. Many cars get modified and finding one completely original is getting harder all the time. Since you left your builder a paint can with the correct color, he should have taken the hint!

My engine also came painted the classic Pontiac blue used on earlier cars. The builder did a nice job painting it and I liked the color, so I did not repaint it. But my new engine was incorrect for a 1980 TA anyway.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: kentucky yeti on December 28, 2022, 07:16:39 AM
Yay on an assembled engine.  I know you have to be excited, heck- we all are!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: formula46two on December 28, 2022, 08:57:15 PM
Congrats on getting the heart!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on December 29, 2022, 08:21:35 AM
I plan on showing in the AACA so correctness is very important. I have been trying to stay numbers right, and high quality parts along the way. I dropped off a minor part yesterday (pvc rubber) and told him about the colour. He was cool with it. He thought the light blue was an early Pontiac colour and that the metallic was for the newer cars. No biggie. My 77 has the original motor and there were no signs of it being messed with when I bought the car. It has a very early build date (sep 76) and the motor was originally the light metallic, same as he painted this one. He gave me a couple of small parts he is needing so I am hunting right now. I am pretty sure another call to Ames will solve the problem.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: Johnny ace on December 29, 2022, 12:37:35 PM
The color you need is called corporate blue,which has no metallic.Pontiac had a metallic blue from 1966 thru 1972,and another metallic thru 1976.My 1969 GP SJ is painted the blue your engine is painted.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on December 29, 2022, 06:59:59 PM
Here is a snapshot from AMES catalog page on engine paint, as you mentioned a phone call is a good idea. I ordered my wheel paint from them and thought the color was accurate. AMES is pretty up front with their product descriptions.

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52595225413_824eba2258_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2o8Eh8g)IMG_1151 (https://flic.kr/p/2o8Eh8g) by Lawrence Alexander (https://www.flickr.com/photos/188552644@N06/), on Flickr
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: Johnny ace on December 29, 2022, 08:20:56 PM
I've had good luck with the Bill Hirsch line of paints.Used them for over 20 years.The years I listed are from his web site.You could call him at 800 828 2061 and ask him.Good luck.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: tajoe on December 29, 2022, 10:24:56 PM
You know you're at the "finish line", when you're complaining about the color of your eng. It's definitely gunna be a good New Year. Can't wait to hear your dyno results. Good luck with it. Don't remember your mentioning your exhaust choices.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on December 30, 2022, 07:50:25 AM
I know, first world problems :grin:, I have RA resto manifolds on my 77 with a pypes exhaust. Was planning on doing the same. Only the 77 has duals and I spoke with the Pypes guy at Carlisle a couple of years ago and he said the transverse muffler actually resulted in a bit more HP, so in trying to keep 'original' at least looking I was planning on doing the transverse. I ordered from RA restorations in Aug, they gave me a tent. delivery of Oct, that has now turned to March! Parts Place had 'one pair left' on ebay, I called to confirm and they had ZERO, guy did not know why the ebay ad said what it did :???:
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: FormTA on December 30, 2022, 08:52:00 AM
I have the pypes transverse on my car and really like it but it is on an LS engine.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on January 03, 2023, 06:46:20 AM
Doing a bit of reading the other day I found information that says 1979 w72 (4 speed cars) had a dual muffler settup, not the transverse? I guess I will have to try and find some pics of low mileage tata's and see whats there :-?
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: ryeguy2006a on January 03, 2023, 07:50:10 AM
Congrats on getting your motor Kerry! That's excellent news!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on January 03, 2023, 08:59:33 AM
Kerry, I didn't want to open the whole exhaust system can of worms since you said you were installing RAM Air manifolds and they would not be correct for your car. I am ingnorant on the judging aspect, how closely do they scrutinize the exhaust system? Does it have to be exactly like OEM? In other words, do you need to have a catalytic converter? Can a single pipe be replaced with duals? When i was looking for exhaust on my car I stumbled upon Gardner, it looks like they do accurate reproductions, but would not work with RAM AIR exhaust manifolds.

https://www.gardnerexhaust.com/exhaust-systems/firebird/1979-firebird-trans-am-exhaust-system/

 
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on January 16, 2023, 08:24:18 AM
The exhaust should be correct or some points will be deducted. One of the judging requirements though is that they cannot go inside the car, they can look into an open door though. So, using that logic I would assume they would have to crawl underneath to see the exhaust, with low clearance.............
Numbers matching on parts is not a requirement (as far as I know) as long as they are period correct. No.s matching again would only be a bonus. AACA is not as crazy as some judging such as in the Corvette world.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on February 15, 2023, 06:52:36 AM
Latest motor news, I was finally able to drop off the exhaust mani's to the shop (thanks again Larry :grin:), later that day I got a text that he was needing the fuel line from the pump to the carb. Promptly ordered from Ames, shipping says it will be here friday. Dale said he was trying to set up dyno time for next week! Sounds exciting, but I will believe it when it happens. When he told me the motor would be finished over the Christmas break my son laughed and said March. I need to start listening to him more seriously! In April 2020 he also said Covid wont be over until 2023, I thought he was full of soup then also.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on February 15, 2023, 03:02:59 PM
Kerry, great to see your car is still moving in the right direction.

There used to be a saying, “the olderI get, the smarter my parents get”. In your case I think it applies to your son as well.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: FormTA on February 15, 2023, 03:08:10 PM
Maybe that will lite a fire under the owner of the car too. He should probably get a move on too....  :-D
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: Wallington on February 15, 2023, 09:29:25 PM
Kerry, not sure if you had it covered or not but if setting it up for dual muffler then keep an eye out for the offset bracket on the rear brake hose where it mounts on the diff to keep it an inch further away from the exhaust. The brake hard lines on the diff itself seemed to also be revised in location and had an extra retainer bracket off the diff cover. I don't know if this was specific to the dual mufflers but have only noticed it on those diffs. Of course, custom exhaust and location may not require either except for originality.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on February 16, 2023, 07:19:45 AM
Thanks Walli.. I will keep an eye out for that. Which reminds me I need to get an exhaust ordered :shock: The way things have been I can see it being out of stock for the next 6 months.

Luke, you are so right, there have been a lot of little things that could have/should have been finished by now.

Larry, I like that.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: ryeguy2006a on February 16, 2023, 07:21:46 AM
Nice update Kerry! It would be great if he could get it on a dyno and have it drop in ready when you get it. That would make life a lot easier for you.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: Jack on February 27, 2023, 08:27:37 PM
Great update, this made me happy.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on March 01, 2023, 06:45:36 AM
No word if it hit the dyno last week, I suspect NOT. I sent a message on Monday for an update, yet to hear back. :sad: :sad:
I would say I am dissapointed but its far beyond that at this point.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: tajoe on March 01, 2023, 03:43:15 PM
Well, how did the sayin use-ta go? "No news, is "good" news"? Not sure if that pertains to your situation. I believe you mentioned you saw the engine completed..."almost". So at least that's something. And I'm not sure where your local is, but here it's still winter, so you're not missing out on any cruising. Spring is quite a distance off. So you still have a little time.
 And hopefully he'll give you a break on the dyno-testing part, or somewhere in the build. It's totally unacceptable for him to drag this out so long, W/O giving you a heads up in the beginning. In my business, if we don't deliver our engs. in a certain amount of time, we pay a penalty to our customers, for each day it's late. Not every customer, but delivery is expected in a realistic amount of time. So sorry for your situation, and I wouldn't be recommending him to anyone soon. (Unless he apologizes, and cuts you a break on it...somewhere) We can only hope, "the end is near".
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on March 02, 2023, 07:57:54 AM
Tajoe, its technically winter but we really didnt have a winter this year. In fact its supposed to be in the high 60's over the weekend (and yet I havent had my 77 out :sad:). But yes, there is still some shop time this spring. Honestly I would like to show the car at Hershey in October so that is my new end date on this one. I am in somewhat regular contact with the builder as he owns the shop that maintains my dd's. I have had the carb on my workbench at home for the entire process just so I could keep a close eye on it. He asked for that a couple of weeks ago, then he needed the fuel line from the pump to the carb which I got and delivered a couple of weeks ago now. I was under the impression that he was just this part away from getting the motor running. Its kind of a weird dynamic and I know I am the sucker that all you guys think I am. I feel like an abused spouse. To meet with this guy face to face is a great experience. He is very personable and all around a good guy. I know the final product so I dont want to cut off my nose to spite my face, as the saying goes. I have even talked to him several times about how unhappy I am that it has taken so long. The one reason for my patience has been me having another car to enjoy, as well as I have been so busy the last couple of years I have had no time to work on it anyway. I am at a point now where I just want to put this project to bed.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: tajoe on March 02, 2023, 06:32:28 PM
Amen
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: kentucky yeti on March 03, 2023, 06:42:38 AM
To meet with this guy face to face is a great experience. He is very personable and all around a good guy. I know the final product so I dont want to cut off my nose to spite my face, as the saying goes. I have even talked to him several times about how unhappy I am that it has taken so long. The one reason for my patience has been me having another car to enjoy, as well as I have been so busy the last couple of years I have had no time to work on it anyway. I am at a point now where I just want to put this project to bed.

I understand that completely.  My house painter started in mid-December.  True, he had a lot of trim to paint first so that the contractor could install it.  I bought it primed to help him out a little bit.  He paints it on the sawhorses (he gets to stand up to work), contractor installs it.  He starts to putty in the nail holes (now having to crawl around) and give it a second coat.  Then Christmas, then his gf kid has ball games that he has to attend, then one thing after another. I called him Monday and said "what the heck?"  You haven't showed up in two weeks and I want to move in sometime this year.  He came out at 12:05 and ate his lunch, got his stuff out, stirred paint and started work- so I left.  He texted me at 4:03 and said he had something he had to do Tuesday and Wednesday, but would return Thursday and stay until he was finished.  Yesterday (Thursday) came and I was there doing dirtwork.  Looked at the time- 9:10.  I called him and told him to NOT show up here except to pick up his stuff.  I have another painter I am meeting this weekend and showing him the house.  He's been here before (he did the sheetrock) and I have faith in him.  Sometimes you gotta just move on...
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: tajoe on March 03, 2023, 03:45:24 PM
Good for you Mike. there are times, you just gutta say, "enuff is enuff".
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on March 06, 2023, 07:37:08 AM
Thats a shame Mike, I have had a couple of jobs go off the rails slightly because of material shortages, but thankfully to date the customers have been patient and understanding, paint was even hard to get a year ago, but that doesnt sound like the problems you are dealing with. Hopefully the new guy will take care of things quickly.

Dale sent me a text this past friday, saying he has dyno time for this week set up!  I told him to send me a video. IF it happens and I know how to post, I will put it up.

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52730063095_0eb4f9eaa4_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2okzmET)2023-03-06_08-29-46 (https://flic.kr/p/2okzmET) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
One part that has been unfinished is the hood. I have been going back and forth with this one. It has a bad edge, I was gonna ditch it for new, then figured I have nothing but time so a repair is in order.  The hood on my black car was in much worse shape.(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52729905079_05f6a0524e_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2okyxGt)2023-03-06_08-30-29 (https://flic.kr/p/2okyxGt) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
I set 6 points and like any good carpenter got out my laser to see if there was any twist. Lo and behold everything was in plane, so I made a couple of cardboard templates and checked the sides, both were consistent then the front.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52729653976_88371ee44a_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2okxg47)2023-03-06_08-30-18 (https://flic.kr/p/2okxg47) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52729129342_fc15b4b619_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2okuz6G)2023-03-06_08-30-37 (https://flic.kr/p/2okuz6G) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52729654616_774c62a719_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2okxgf9)2023-03-06_08-30-45 (https://flic.kr/p/2okxgf9) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr

You can see the dr. side has a pretty bad bump on the front edge. I was trying to figure out to fix it easily, the best I could come up with was to remove the inner bracing along the front edge, straighten then weld the brace back in. I also saw at this point that the 'flat' part beside the shaker cuttout has a bad push-in bend as well. Along with some rust along the inner folded seams that will need addressed I made the executive decision to find a better starting point. This one will be relegated to wall art.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: FormTA on March 06, 2023, 08:31:58 AM
What a shame. I was looking forward to seeing you repair this one.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: ryeguy2006a on March 06, 2023, 11:42:15 AM
Exciting news Kerry. Look forward to seeing the engine dyno video.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: Gene-73 on March 06, 2023, 11:44:52 AM
For the hood, I would try hammering it down. Just put some wooden blocks on the bottom for support on either side of the bump and hit it from the top. Any localized metal damage could easily be fixed with filler. I'll bet that bump would come down with a little persuasion.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on March 06, 2023, 05:49:22 PM
I thought about beating on it, but I'm not completely sure the brace on the underside is not bent a bit also. The warp at the shaker scoop area is a bit more of a concern, plus there is one spot with a hole rusted through. All could be fixed and if this was for a 1932 Packard and replacements werent available I would def. be doing some pounding. I dont want to spend money just because, but I think it may be worthwhile this time around. I do have a pretty decent original paint TATA that was given to me that I could use, but honestly I think it looks cool with the original wear and plan on using it as wall art also. Plus Im using it for dimensions for painting. I guess I should focus more on getting my car on the road than interior decorating.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on March 07, 2023, 08:27:23 AM
All could be fixed and if this was for a 1932 Packard and replacements werent available I would def. be doing some pounding.

Kerry, in another 20-40 years that wall art hood just might be the best hood around and worth some money.

About 45 years ago a very good friend of mine owned a body shop. it's a long story, but his body repair knowledge was limited at the time. He had several body men that came from Poland, they could speak little English but were real craftsman. My first experience was watching one of them on a Saturday. He took a late model Datsun that looked to be close to a total wreck and using a frame jack, hammer and dolly pulled out the entire rear end. My friend said at that time in Poland replacement parts were hard to come by, and they could repair anything. I wished I would have taken pictures.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on March 08, 2023, 06:36:49 AM
Yea, I have seen some crazy stuff repaired. This one is not really all that bad, but...... I went on the usual haunts looking for a hood and the only 1 I found looked worse than the one I have and it was something like 500. :shock: I might just wait another month and see if I can find one at Carlisle. I had a couple of contacts but one of them passed away a couple of years ago and the other fell off the radar. I do believe that good original hoods are indeed getting to the point of being scarce to no good ones existing. Shame of it was I started collecting them just because, when I had my barn fire I know I had at least 6 really nice ones that were destroyed. I have 3 now, none of which I want to use.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: kentucky yeti on March 16, 2023, 06:35:07 AM
If it doesn't straighten out- it is still wall art.  If it does, you have a hood with a small amount of finessing and filler.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on March 16, 2023, 05:13:31 PM
Update umpteenth. Last call I got was that he needed the oil dipstick tube and dipstick. 'Last part I need to get the motor running'. I have a 400 behind my shop and lo and behold those parts were there. I think I got a bit lucky as the few sources I checked show that part as being discontinued. Dropped it off at the shop, got a call the next day 'I dont have the correct hold down bracket for the distr. but I do have it in and working'. So, another order off to Ames, I checked their cat. and ordered a new dipstick just because (the one I gave him was rusty and crusty but I cleaned it up pretty good, just figured having a new one would not be a bad idea). So happens they showed the dipstick tube so I ordered that as well. THEN, I get another text, 'do you have the lower dip stick tube?' Ah, NO! I had no idea this was a 2 pc thing!! Turns out by shear luck the part I ordered was the lower tube. Stuff came in 2 days and it went to the shop today. Hopefully this will be the last of it.

For the hood, I stood out in the shop one night looking at it and figure what the hey. So I got a BFH and WaCkEd it a couple of times. Putting my template across the front its pretty darn straight as is. I really need to have it in place against the nose for a perfect alignment but I think I have it to where it may work.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: FormTA on March 16, 2023, 06:23:54 PM
Sweet! Glad the stars are starting to align on this thing!

It a precision adjustment tool, not a BFH.  :D
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: kentucky yeti on March 16, 2023, 08:11:41 PM
IIRC- the lower dipstick tube is installed from inside the block.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on March 17, 2023, 05:52:05 AM
I think it may go in by removing the oil pan? I know I ran into this same issue with the motor for my 77. They had a hard time getting the correct part. This time he just asks me for what he needs. I had forgotten all about it until it reared its ugly head again.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: kentucky yeti on March 17, 2023, 06:52:56 AM
Right.  I was just saying to make sure your engine guy doesn’t “force” it through from outside.  It has been done- I’ve seen it and it ain’t pretty.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on March 17, 2023, 01:45:50 PM
I can imagine  :shock:
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: tajoe on March 17, 2023, 02:54:56 PM
Right.  I was just saying to make sure your engine guy doesn’t “force” it through from outside.  It has been done- I’ve seen it and it ain’t pretty.
LOL. Is that like trying to stick a wet noodle up a goats.....( :lol:)
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: Jack on March 18, 2023, 01:59:35 AM
Thats a good one Joe  :lol:
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on April 17, 2023, 05:38:29 AM
OK, latest STORY, the dyno guy has had covid for the last 2 weeks. May be, as I know of a couple of people in my area that recently had it. Dale called me this past Friday morning. Motor is running, said it sounded great with a bit of a lumpy cam. I cant wait to hear it myself :grin: He did have one minor problem, the knipple that the heater hose attaches to the back of the head was kinda wonky. He wasnt sure if new ones were available so he tried to reuse what was there. It was leaking. SO, I promptly placed an order with Ames and its supposed to be here the first of the week. I was told that once that gets swapped and another run that proves successful I will be a proud new papa :shock:
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on April 17, 2023, 06:54:56 AM
After waiting all this time the excitement must be building, many of us who have been following your build are just as excited. Little bit of a lumpy cam also sounds good.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: ryeguy2006a on April 17, 2023, 06:57:20 AM
Congrats on the engine Kerry! I'm curious what kind of power it put down?  :cool:
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: FormTA on April 17, 2023, 07:33:58 AM
That is awesome! About time! You are going to get a lot busier here soon I feel.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: MNBob on April 17, 2023, 10:09:48 AM
Having him test it on the dyno gives confidence it will be right when you get it.  The wait is finally over, congratulations.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: tajoe on April 17, 2023, 02:41:33 PM
The nipple that the heater hose attaches to the back of the head was kinda wonky. He wasn't sure if new ones were available so he tried to reuse what was there. It was leaking.  I was told that once that gets swapped and another run that proves successful I will be a proud new papa :shock:
He didn't have a freeze plug to replace the nipple with, "temporarily" so he could finish the test? Unreal.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on April 18, 2023, 04:23:41 AM
He thought the knipple was going to be ok. Thats why he put it back in. He said it wasnt a blow out but leaked none the less. Hence why its being replaced. He did the run in and said it was good. I am not sure if he got it on the dyno yet.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: tajoe on April 18, 2023, 02:09:01 PM
Will you get to witness the dyno? Be nice to get it on a video...for future enjoyment.  :smile:
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on April 19, 2023, 04:22:06 AM
I would love to, hopefully my schedule permits. Its usually pretty flexible but for the rest of this week and all of next week I am tied up between 630 and 630 each day :sad: I told him to video for me in case I cannot make it.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: TATurbo on April 20, 2023, 09:14:07 PM
Congrats on the running engine!  Good luck getting to Hershey.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on May 29, 2023, 06:07:08 AM
My motor is FINISHED  and ready for pick up. :shock: :shock:

Now as bad as it sounds, I need to clean out some space in the shop for it, and find one day in the next week or so that I can get it.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: tajoe on May 29, 2023, 06:18:22 AM
Don't wait..."RUN", get that thing home! Make space for it later. Put it in the kitchen, if you have ta. And don't forget the pics. :)
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: kentucky yeti on May 29, 2023, 06:30:24 AM
Awesome!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on May 29, 2023, 07:17:05 AM
I am not sure I can believe what you are saying. The saga of your unfinished engine was like watching a version of the Ground Hog movie. Every day I wake up, log on to my iPad to check the status of your engine build. Only to read it’s almost done.

Today the TAC loyalists are cheering for you!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: tajoe on May 29, 2023, 07:36:37 AM
"Ground hog day?" LOL. A classic Bill Murry movie. Think of the royalties Sonny and Cher got from that movie.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on May 29, 2023, 08:47:22 AM
Def Groundhog Day!
Not sure my wife wants it in the house, LOL. With all that has been going on getting my sons car it has been a hectic week. I started a job a couple of weeks ago that was supposed to be a 2 day in and out, some trim and paint. He ended up with it being a full blown gut job remodel. We had everything tore out, prepped and ready to go. Then had to wait for the electrician for a week. THEN, had to wait for the I.T. guy for another week. I like to work on only one job at a time so things wont get lost in the shuffle and customers dont get too excited so we have had some shop work and other stuff to keep us busy whilst waiting on the subs to finish. Last week would have been perfect for me to pick up the motor. Now this coming week we need to work double to get caught up as this job has put us at least 2-3 weeks behind my already backed up schedule. I will have to squeeze the motor stuff in there somewhere. Gonna go out in the shop in a bit and move stuff around so I have room and can get back to working on the TATA.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: tajoe on May 29, 2023, 08:54:06 AM
Like it's been said, "There ain't enuff hrs in the day." Know the feeling. You'll get there. Congrats on having the work/income. Helps with the garage projects. Keep us posted, when you find the time.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: MNBob on May 29, 2023, 02:17:21 PM
Yes, I was going strong on the car and now i am sidetracked on the deck.  Oh well its a hobby!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: tajoe on May 29, 2023, 04:35:46 PM
Take advantage of the nice weather, for them outside projects. Here in New England, it's a luxury we don't always have. Waiting for the rains to happen, when I can get back inside.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: FormTA on May 29, 2023, 08:28:19 PM
Man that is awesome! Glad to hear it! I'm super excited for you!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: ryeguy2006a on May 30, 2023, 11:28:02 AM
Glad to hear that the motor is done!!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on June 07, 2023, 03:43:09 PM
Scheduled to pick up Friday afternoon!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: kentucky yeti on June 07, 2023, 08:29:52 PM
Double YAY!!!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on June 08, 2023, 09:39:33 AM
Kerry, we are counting on seeing some pictures! Was the motor holding up your build?
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on June 09, 2023, 05:36:35 AM
Today should be the day. I have made arrangements to pick it up this afternoon.

Motor has def. put a hold on the build. Most of the big stuff on the car is done. Int. needs to be done but I have most of the parts ready to put in. Underside is all finished. Body and paint (other than the hood) is complete. I still have a list of to be finished but its quite small compared to when things started. I have never put a motor in a car before so it may be an all summer experience for me :shock: Still need to get the clutch, and have the trans looked over. I have 2 bell housings, not sure if either is correct, so may need one of those as well. I was joking with my son the other day of many friends when I was growing up would pull a motor  friday night and back in saturday afternoon (usually outside in the driveway). Cruising back on the street in the evening. How I wish!!!

As a funny side note, about the girl (well she is just a bit older than myself) that is the counter person/shop manager where all of my service work gets done. The guy that owns the shop, along with 2 other places is the fellow that built my motor. Anyway, talking to her the other day I found out that she is the daughter of the guy that built the motor in my first vehicle, a 65 f100. It was a corvette 350 transplant. I have known her family since I was about 15 years old. I knew her, but not well as she was a bit older than myself. She and her older sister and mother drag raced some bad @$@$$ 68 camaros many years ago. She said she started racing when she was 15. Also how her dad had her rebuilding motors at the same time. The owner of the shop is also a drag racer and I joked that she most likely had more runs down the strip than he has. She said yes but dont tell him as his ego will be bruised, LOL.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: ryeguy2006a on June 09, 2023, 07:07:23 AM
Good luck Kerry!! Motor swaps really aren't that bad. In my experience with older cars like ours it's easier to assemble the engine and transmission together then stab them into the car a a unit. Add the shifter and exhaust manifolds later and you'll be completely fine. Have your son help guide the motor in while you run the engine hoist.

When I had the LS1 and t56 in my 68 Camaro, I was selling the motor and the guy who wanted to buy it wanted to hear it run. So I took him for a ride on a Friday when he came to look at the car, pulled the motor Saturday morning, and he bought it Saturday afternoon. Point is, if you have the motor and transmission mounts installed in the car it's really straightforward to get them installed. Give me a call if you need any pointers.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: b_hill_86 on June 09, 2023, 07:47:36 AM
I’ve never pulled/installed an engine with the trans attached but they’re not hard. Post pics of the bells if you want and we could tell you if they’re correct. BOP look different than Chevy
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on June 09, 2023, 10:00:19 AM
Good luck Kerry!! Motor swaps really aren't that bad. In my experience with older cars like ours it's easier to assemble the engine and transmission together then stab them into the car a a unit. Add the shifter and exhaust manifolds later and you'll be completely fine. Have your son help guide the motor in while you run the engine hoist.


I would like to add that if the front clip is not installed you will have far more room. You wont have to put the engine on such a steep angle to clear the core support, the engine can be pretty level and just slide it straight back. You will have plenty of room even with log style manifolds installed. You can leave the distributor installed, but I would remove the cap, it's fragile and easy to crack if you bump into the firewall.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on June 09, 2023, 01:57:50 PM
Thanks for the advice. Any and all is appreciated. I have the core support on but was thinking about taking it off to make things easier. Now that I have it in writing there is no question. I pulled the motor from my 77 myself, leaving the trans attached, and talking with someone else they said without a lift it would be easier to install the trans first and put the whole thing in at one time.

Still have a lot of stuff to take care of, brackets, pulleys etc.

CAN I PUT THE MOTOR IN WITHOUT THAT KIND OF STUFF AND INSTALL AFTER THE FACT?

Still some things to take care of, need to get the clutch and parts etc.

Going to get the car uncovered and washed off tomorrow and get ready to get started. I anticipate all summer doing this but hopefully things will move along quickly and go better than I am thinking.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52963089388_c23e11dc2b_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2oGaFgA)2023-06-09_03-46-24 (https://flic.kr/p/2oGaFgA) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr

The motor looks good, but considering a few things and time frame I have to say I was/am a bit underwhelmed. Carb was rebuilt but not 'polished' up any. He told me upfront that making it shiny was not his thing as much as making it run right. I could have sent it off to be done. Had I known from the beginning that the process was going to take this long I would have approached things a bit differently. Just a few nit picks but that is me being persnickety. He said it runs great and that really is the bottom line. Given a choice I would rather have it run great and look ok.

LET THE GAMES BEGIN  :grin: :grin:
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on June 09, 2023, 02:02:54 PM
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52963089388_c23e11dc2b_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2oGaFgA)2023-06-09_03-46-24 (https://flic.kr/p/2oGaFgA) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
First thing I had to do was get a new motor lift. I had one before the fire :sad:, insurance paid out but I didnt think I would ever be using one again so didnt bother to replace it. Stopped at TSC and they had none. Went to HF and they had one left. It was the bigger of the two with a 2ton cap. Seems to be as well built as any other thing from there. Little bit of assembly and wham, bam ready to go.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52962799759_0e43641e45_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2oG9caZ)2023-06-09_03-59-44 (https://flic.kr/p/2oG9caZ) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52962658326_cc15e44113_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2oG8t8u)2023-06-09_03-59-52 (https://flic.kr/p/2oG8t8u) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on June 09, 2023, 03:49:07 PM
Thanks for the advice. Any and all is appreciated. I have the core support on but was thinking about taking it off to make things easier. Now that I have it in writing there is no question. I pulled the motor from my 77 myself, leaving the trans attached, and talking with someone else they said without a lift it would be easier to install the trans first and put the whole thing in at one time.

Still have a lot of stuff to take care of, brackets, pulleys etc.

CAN I PUT THE MOTOR IN WITHOUT THAT KIND OF STUFF AND INSTALL AFTER THE FACT?

Still some things to take care of, need to get the clutch and parts etc.

Going to get the car uncovered and washed off tomorrow and get ready to get started. I anticipate all summer doing this but hopefully things will move along quickly and go better than I am thinking.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52963089388_c23e11dc2b_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2oGaFgA)2023-06-09_03-46-24 (https://flic.kr/p/2oGaFgA) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr

The motor looks good, but considering a few things and time frame I have to say I was/am a bit underwhelmed. Carb was rebuilt but not 'polished' up any. He told me upfront that making it shiny was not his thing as much as making it run right. I could have sent it off to be done. Had I known from the beginning that the process was going to take this long I would have approached things a bit differently. Just a few nit picks but that is me being persnickety. He said it runs great and that really is the bottom line. Given a choice I would rather have it run great and look ok.

LET THE GAMES BEGIN  :grin: :grin:

I don't know if there is any wrong or right way, installing with or without the transmission. If I was just working on the engine, I wouldn't bother pulling the transmission. Since you have the front clip off, including the core support, why wouldn't you bolt the transmission to the engine first and install it in one piece. You probably know this already, make sure you have a new pilot bushing for the crankshaft and a clutch alignment tool when bolting on the pressure plate to the flywheel, so the clutch disk is centered, before bolting up the transmission. You deffinately want a new throughout bearing and put a dab of grease on the clutch fork before installing it on the bellhousing.

Since you will have the fenders and core support out of the way, nothing wrong with bolting on your pulleys, brackets, alternator, P/S pump after the motor is in place. Doing this with the fenders off you won't have to worry about scratching the paint.

That new engine sure looks pretty! Once the air cleaner and shaker is installed, you will almost not be able to see the carb.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: tajoe on June 09, 2023, 04:49:52 PM
No radiator support, or fenders?! Yeah man, nows the time to put the motor and tranny in together, but more importantly, put on the hedders. So much easier. Even if you're using RA manifolds, bolt them and the head pipes on B4 the fenders. Good to see some fwd progress. Gunna be a good summer. :)
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: scarebird on June 09, 2023, 06:48:30 PM
I would bolt up all the accessories too; there is reason the factory did it that way.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on June 11, 2023, 08:39:41 AM
I am thinking I will make it as compete as possible before setting in the car. When I bought this car, the p.o. had the motor completely disassembled. Block looked like it had been used as a boat anchor, it was that rusty! It was missing a lot of stuff. Fast forward many years down the road and it looks like I need just about everything as far as brackets and ancillaries are concerned. I am going to try and put a list together today and start pecking away one piece at a time. I guess I should have known better, this is stuff I should have been gathering for the last 3 years :shock: :shock:

Anyone have brackets and such they want to get rid of, let me.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on June 11, 2023, 08:45:11 AM
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50703185291_fd8c89278c_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kft5vR)2020-12-10_12-45-25 (https://flic.kr/p/2kft5vR) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50702448828_55deb3dfdc_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kfpiAd)2020-12-10_12-45-11 (https://flic.kr/p/2kfpiAd) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
This is what I delivered 3 years ago. So considering theres not much there, I guess its a miracle what came back! Being a 4 speed car with original motor I figured most of the value was in the block. I was worried that it could not be salvaged. He said the shop had a hard time getting it cleaned up, but in the end they succeeded.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: tajoe on June 11, 2023, 01:34:14 PM
whoa! I remember those intakes. Had one, but didn't use it. Think its maybe on my test stand motor, for QJ testing. Can't understand why Pontiac made the secondary holes D shaped. Most light footers wouldn't notice it, but must be a killer at WOT.
Would like ta see a comparison test on that thing. 
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: kentucky yeti on June 11, 2023, 04:21:56 PM
I’ve probably got all the brackets and spacers in a couple boxes that I found while moving.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on June 12, 2023, 06:11:07 AM
I did as much research as I knew how to at the time, and all I came up with was that the Pontiac intake was almost/as good as aftermarket with the exception of the weight. So, I decided to use ironside. When the time came it was found to have a crack in it so off to the shelf. I ended up using an Edelbrock performer. Obviously havent got to that point yet but its supposed to be a direct bolt in for the shaker. I wish he would have ground the name off the top as its a dead giveaway though.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on June 17, 2023, 07:48:21 AM
I guess I may as well start adding here since work has started back up. When I got the car the motor was in pieces, rusty and crusty. I had no idea what was and wasnt there. First big shock was that the carb that I got with it was not correct. I got lucky and found a good date coded correct for 79 4 speed carb for $150. This was after I lost out on the sale of one for $600. SO, my procrastination actually paid off for a change.

I had no idea what state the motor was going to be in when I got it back. Its running but there is still a lot of work I need to do to install. With my 77 I dropped the car off and had the shop install the finished motor. I had no idea what came back was going to be so bare :? I looked through the parts and lo and behold I have NO brackets whatsoever. The only thing I did have was the bracket for the A/C as I do have the compressor and dryer and such. Larry (5th TA) came through with most of what I needed, thanks again. Still needing the front alt. bracket, I found a nice used one from Firebird central. It came in yesterday. They have all been cleaned prepped and painted. Picking up my alt. today from Napa and will start to do some installations. 

Still need to order the steering pump, most likely from NAPA and the starter (mini from summit).

I cleaned up the bell housing, need to do just a bit more and I think it will suffice. Plan to get the clutch pack ordered today from Summit.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: FormTA on June 17, 2023, 09:13:02 AM
It is pretty amazing how many little parts there are to complete an engine installation.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: tajoe on June 17, 2023, 09:45:01 AM
Who'll be installing the clutch, and tranny? Not the eng. builder, I hope.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on June 18, 2023, 10:21:34 AM
Im gonna try that stuff myself, and with the help of the TAC brethren, LOL.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on June 19, 2023, 06:08:39 AM
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52982050735_921b8bc74a_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2oHQRPn)2023-06-17_06-13-13 (https://flic.kr/p/2oHQRPn) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
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Getting stuff cleaned up a bit. Got some stuff mocked up on the motor. Once I have it all figured out I will sock everything down the right way.
Went to Napa to get the alternator and surprisingly it was not there. They usually have really good service. The girl at the counter acted like she had no idea what I was talking about. Then after hemming and hawing she asked if she was the one that took the order, which she was. Admitted she forgot to order it. Supposed to be in today.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on June 19, 2023, 06:13:55 AM
I will add, the more I submerse myself into this motor, have been reading through the service manual, comparing to my 77 and talking to a couple of well versed people the more disappointed I am. Still havent got the flywheel or dipstick (although I havent pressed the issue). Said he had it in his truck. I figured the flywheel was removed to attach the lifting sling. Not sure why the dipstick is absent. I have another but realized that the top half of the tube is not there. This is not repro'd and I was lucky enough to have one. I hope its in his truck as well! There are a few minor nitpicks and I hate to be that guy, but for what I paid and how long this took it should be perfect in every way. Its not and I will have some work to do to make it that way.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: FormTA on June 19, 2023, 07:07:40 AM
Ya, but it is really looking good!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: ryeguy2006a on June 20, 2023, 06:30:20 AM
Looking great Kerry!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on June 22, 2023, 06:14:00 AM
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52993578913_d8ea56dd67_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2oJRWK4)2023-06-22_08-08-41 (https://flic.kr/p/2oJRWK4) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
One more piece LOL. At this rate the 3 year wait will seem insignificant :shock:
Picked up the 80 amp alt. It was too big, the oversized bracket was going to cost $150, so lets look for another alternator. The build sheet calls for a 63 amp unit and so I figured if thats good enough for the factory......... Took the big one back to NAPA. I ordered an 80amp ONLY because when that part went kaput on my 77 a few years ago I went to NAPA for a replacement and they suggested that size since the car had a/c. I found the part no. on the one in my 77 and gave it to the counter person, lo and behold they had one in stock. So, its an 80 amp with the smaller housing. I ordered a bunch of hardware, bolts etc, steering pump. All should be here tomorrow. In the meantime my magnetic pick up tool was just the right size to hold things in place. If all shows up as supposed to hope to get a good go on things this weekend.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on June 22, 2023, 09:37:49 AM
Brackets and alternator look great, one more thing you can check off your list.

I had to go back and look at all 9 pages of your project to refresh my memory and see just how far you have come. I thought you had to replace a floor pan? maybe that was someone else. What about sheet metal was it all in good shape, or did you have to replace some of that as well? Maybe it was before I was a TAC member.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on June 23, 2023, 06:30:46 AM
My 77 was a total rust bucket. One of the reasons why I got the automatic TATA many years ago was that it was literally free of all rust. I got it from a former member here that got it from another member on here (still following?) that had parted out a complete car because no one wanted to buy it as a project. I was interested when it was being offered originally but I was knee deep in my 77 resto. Fast forward, that car was lost in my barn fire as I was doing some work to the door. With the insurance money I got for my stash of parts I found this 4 speed TATA somewhat local to me. This car was complete, however the prev. owner removed the motor, tore it completely apart and left it that way. He had a sea container full of T/A parts and all that I could grab and carry came with the car. The car I am presently restoring was also 99.9% rust free. The body itself was perfect. A good bit of surface rust and it looked pretty bad when I got it but was solid. There was a hole about 6" x 6" in the pass side floor. I simply replaced a patch in the middle. The pass side rear quarter had been replaced at one point which I am guessing was accident damage. I only had to do some touch up around that. They did a great job with the replacement.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: MNBob on June 24, 2023, 03:23:39 PM
You were lucky to find that 4spd car; there aren't that many.  I knew you lost the other one in the fire, but i didn't know the story of getting the new one.

All the brackets came out really nice!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: tajoe on June 24, 2023, 04:33:12 PM
Super clean. Will almost be a shame to light it off. (I said "almost")
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/bb453/tajoe/wink_emoji.jpg?width=590&height=370&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/bb453/tajoe/wink_emoji.jpg?width=590&height=370&fit=bounds)
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: FormTA on June 24, 2023, 05:59:25 PM
Ya I really wanted to buy that shell from you. Motor looks awesome!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: ryeguy2006a on June 26, 2023, 06:28:58 AM
Ya I really wanted to buy that shell from you. Motor looks awesome!

I was also very seriously considering that shell.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on June 27, 2023, 05:36:32 AM
Im glad I didnt let it go. It was completely rust free and honestly only suffered a bit of damage from the fire. It did need a roof replacement, and the pass side quarter should have been replaced as the easiest fix. That was about it. HOWEVER, after sitting for the last several years it has completely rusted through! There is NO trunk pan and it looks like it has been sitting below dirt for 20 yrs now. I am sure the culprit is the chemicals in the fire fighting equipment that was used to put out the barn fire. I never would have had an idea they would do that! Now I know what they mean by using a special fire extinguisher for your car and not the average abc model.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on June 29, 2023, 05:48:47 AM
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53010187559_b7a4e660d3_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2oLk4V2)2023-06-29_07-35-19 (https://flic.kr/p/2oLk4V2) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53009430537_7cd91d4e41_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2oLgbSV)2023-06-29_07-35-25 (https://flic.kr/p/2oLgbSV) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53010408500_ce7111f9f8_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2oLmcAm)2023-06-29_07-35-12 (https://flic.kr/p/2oLmcAm) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
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One bite at a time. Nothing put back on the motor yet. Got some more stuff cleaned up. Napa failed again and sent the wrong PS pump pulley, but the correct pump. So a re order is needed. Need to get that installed before I put the pump into place. Waiting on a couple of fasteners, then I think I can get the front end put together. Need to get the trans to the shop for a once over. I will be surprised if it needs anything other than maintenance. It seems pretty sound to me but what do I know? Once that has been confirmed and I get my clutch ordered then I think I will be almost ready for an install. We have been really busy at work, but a few days each week have been a bit 'relaxed' and allowed some free. Fortunately we are slammed again for the next month but that means less time for the shop work :sad:
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on June 29, 2023, 06:43:22 AM
I love the before and after pictures. Amazing job on the fan and clutch assembly. I noticed you can clearly see the Delco markings on the clutch assembly!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on June 29, 2023, 02:03:51 PM
Yes and the Ohio USA is there as well. I forgot to point out my special parts cleaner! LOL.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on June 29, 2023, 05:33:44 PM
Yes, I couldn’t hep but notice that purposely built fan cleaning tray. If your ever done restoring fans, it might work as a garbage container lid!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: MNBob on July 03, 2023, 03:48:08 PM
Nice work, those parts really cleaned up well.  Be sure to replace the transmission front seal before re-installing.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on July 05, 2023, 12:27:32 PM
Will do Bob, Thats a great idea Larry, I never thought of that  :lol:
Had some bolts shipped for the fan to water pump but for some reason they never got here because the post office says I dont live where I do. I wish people that send me bills would get the same memo, LOL.
Replacements are on the way, MANY THANKS AGAIN! Once I get them and the replacement PS pulley I should be able to get the front buttoned up.
Took my trans to my builder for a once over. Just doing a visual and clicking through the gears he didnt think there would be anything wrong with it. Hes going to open it up though for a once over and put some new lube in.
The bad news-When I dropped the trans off, he informed me that one of his shop foremans had passed away suddenly. Other than the obvious for his sake the bad part is that he had my dipstick and upper tube. Now they are MIA. I have no idea why this guy had them but it is what it is. I have a new dipstick, no biggie now to find the upper tube!!

Its been super hot, and I have been super busy so not much shop time. Once I have the correct bolts I plan on getting back to things and start to thinking about getting this beast installed.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: Nexus on July 09, 2023, 06:38:26 AM
Lots of work done!!

All caught up!!

looks amazing!!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on July 15, 2023, 07:08:56 AM
Not much happening as of late. Too hot and too busy. Ordered some more parts from Ames that came in promptly, water pump studs are backordered, but they said they should have been in this past week so I am hoping to get them sometime next week. I got most of everything else I think I need at the moment. Havent heard back on the trans, but will reach out next week to see if he had a chance to look it over. Went to the Camaro nationals yesterday in PA to pick up my exhaust system. I ordered it from Firebird (camaro) Central in May with a sale. Delivered to the show and no shipping fee. I had been wanting to go the venue for awhile so it was a good excuse to take the day off. Place is about 40 min or so from home.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53046709147_0c2e7514b8_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2oPyfvz)2023-07-15_09-03-29 (https://flic.kr/p/2oPyfvz) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
The funny part is that FBCentral had the best price at the time on the Pypes, so they delivered from KY. The Pypes HQ is maybe half hour at the most away from the show where it was delivered :shock:
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on July 15, 2023, 07:12:05 AM
Forgot to ad, the upper dipstick tube (which the shop lost) is not repr'od anymore. Ames used to have them but no longer. I found one from Franks in Cali. Ordered on Monday, delivery was set for Thurs. Get an email on wed, delivery delayed until friday! Get an email on Friday delivery delayed because of weather, no date given. Get an email this morning, delivery for Monday. We shall see.
I ordered parts for my dishwasher the day after the Franks order, also from Cali and those parts got here yesterday.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: MNBob on July 15, 2023, 09:58:03 AM
Frank's is a great resource.  My orders were shipped quickly.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: tajoe on July 15, 2023, 03:23:43 PM
Dishwashers are "definitely" more important than car parts.  :lol:
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on July 17, 2023, 06:12:54 AM
You got that right! Mice ate through the drain hose 3 times now!! I found a couple of spots where I think they got into the house and kitchen in particular. I think I have eradicated them, and sealed everything. Hoping for the best. The dishwasher is a bosch, and unlike most others I have dealt with the drain hose connects inside of the unit. Some parts have to be taken apart to gain access, its a big PIA the first time around. I can do it with my eyes closed now. I have worked on several areas of this thing and know it pretty well. BUT I will never buy another Bosch.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on July 17, 2023, 09:12:35 AM
Sounds like you need a steel braided drain hose!

Wandering off topic here.
Sorry you had a bad experience with your Bosch dishwasher. I replaced ours with a Bosch probably six years ago maybe more. They switched the fitting for the water supply line to what you see on a washing machine or garden hose. I didn’t like that, but maybe all manufacturers use that type of hose now? I also had to replace the soap dispenser because half the time it would not open. The part was cheap and only took about 10 minutes to replace. On the plus side it’s so quiet you don’t know it’s running. More important, it does an incredible job cleaning dishes. No rinsing is necessary. I am just amazed at how soiled dishes can be and they come out spotless.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on July 18, 2023, 06:05:17 AM
The last time I replaced the hose I used a piece of flex electrical conduit as a sleeve. In order for me to get it hooked up and then set in place I had to leave the conduit about 4" short. The little b&^&^%&^%& ate through that one point!! I cannot believe the hose is made of a product that emits such a scent (I suppose thats what attracts them) that is so enticing.
My old DW died right in the middle of covid. It was Easter weekend and all of the places I checked were into July before a new DW would be available. So we started scouring all of the stores for in stock inventory (which was almost non existent). I had a decent one to begin with and didnt want to cheap out but was running short on options. We finally found this bosch as a floor model from best buy. It retailed for almost $1400 and we got it for $800 being a floor model. First problem encountered when we went to hook it up. It did not wire direct like all the others I have hooked up. Instead Bosch has a better idea of having a power box which is sold separately, which the Best buy salesman forgot to tell us!! Fortunately Lowes had one in stock. Never have been crazy about how it cleans, not nearly as thorough as our old dw. Threw a code and the water drain overflow was flooded, so had to take things apart to fix that. Then when the drain hose fiasco started found out that you have to take things apart to change the hose. One thing you are right about though, with my hearing I cannot even hear when its running, it is that quiet.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on July 18, 2023, 06:11:39 AM
Back to the regular scheduled program :grin:
Weather finally cooled off enough to give me some motivation for shop time after work. I got most of the parts in from orders to get things rolling. First I pressed the pulley on the new power steering pump. I 'borrowed' the tool from autozone. Had a hard time getting the pump installed. I thought it was pretty much cut and dry :shock: After several attempts, then a couple trips back and forth to the garage to look at my 77 I realized that NAPA gave me the WRONG pump! One bolt hole lined up with the install bracket the other did not. SO now to remove the pulley and look for the correct pump. I did learn how to press the pulley on and remove so theres that :-) NAPA did good with parts that I have needed for my 77, batting 0 with this one so far.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on July 18, 2023, 06:18:23 AM
I forgot to add a special thanks to KY YETTI. He sent me the vent tube I was looking for. A few minutes with a fine gr. roloc and its ready to roll. Now I need to move the hole in the air cleaner.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53055014388_9b3f789422_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2oQhPno)2023-07-18_08-16-01 (https://flic.kr/p/2oQhPno) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53055014568_6ab3ce86dc_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2oQhPqu)2023-07-18_08-16-09 (https://flic.kr/p/2oQhPqu) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr

THANKS AGAIN MIKE!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: tajoe on July 18, 2023, 02:19:35 PM
Cool.  looks like an exhaust pipe for a mini-bike.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: FormTA on July 18, 2023, 08:13:15 PM
I feel that the olders these cars get the harder it is to aquire correct parts. I know that sounds like it would be obvious but I think I forget how old these cars really are. 

The tube cleaned up nice!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: N PRGRES on July 19, 2023, 05:20:40 AM
I feel that the olders these cars get the harder it is to aquire correct parts. I know that sounds like it would be obvious but I think I forget how old these cars really are. 

The tube cleaned up nice!

You mean you forget how old we are don't you?  :-D :-D
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: Nexus on July 19, 2023, 01:51:50 PM
Cool.  looks like an exhaust pipe for a mini-bike.

I had the exact same thought!!!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on July 24, 2023, 07:44:16 AM
Bought a motor lift from HF, it was something like $30 and I found out why. Its only about 16" long! NOT nearly big enough for a Pontiac motor, may fit a toyota, LOL. So I did some rigging and made a contraption to move my motor about. It works just fine like this but Im not comfortable enough to set the motor in the car with it. Will have to borrow the shops sling when the day comes.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53067409247_23fff8a698_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2oRokVR)2023-07-24_09-37-05 (https://flic.kr/p/2oRokVR) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr

Still waiting on the water pump bolts and the steering pump. Though I did get an email today saying I have a delivery scheduled for today, but no shipper mentioned?? So I decided to clean up the A/C stuff. I really have no desire to use this stuff and am planning on a new compressor but just in case I dont get one and need to put something in for looks I have this as a backup.
 (https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53067994341_23b58c5822_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2oRrkRF)2023-07-24_09-36-46 (https://flic.kr/p/2oRrkRF) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53067408427_a13c9dc468_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2oRokFH)2023-07-24_09-36-38 (https://flic.kr/p/2oRokFH) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53067992676_03de563ef3_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2oRrkmY)2023-07-24_09-36-03 (https://flic.kr/p/2oRrkmY) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53067992511_cbcc77bf59_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2oRrkj8)2023-07-24_09-35-55 (https://flic.kr/p/2oRrkj8) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53067992271_020a8c8307_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2oRrkeZ)2023-07-24_09-35-46 (https://flic.kr/p/2oRrkeZ) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr


Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: FormTA on July 24, 2023, 11:17:33 AM
That is one beautiful mock up piece!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on July 25, 2023, 10:27:52 AM
Beautiful job on the compressor, hoses and mounting hardware. Maybe the compressor is not functional, it sure looks good.

When I earned a living as a mechanic I spent the extra money for SnapOn sockets and wrenches, they fit better over rusted nuts and bolts and if they ever did break the tool salesman came once a week and replaced them. Fifty years later if something breaks I call them up and the ship a new replacement within days. Nowadays I go to Harbor Freight for something new because the price advantage is hard to argue with and from a hobbyist standpoint it gets the job done. I would pass on something like their Jack stands where my life could be at stake.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: MNBob on July 25, 2023, 02:53:39 PM
I bought that same HF load leveler, it is supposed to be good for 1500 pounds.  Can't you just hook it to the intake bolts?  Or are you planning to use the lift tabs?

It is hard to beat the price/value at HF.  I always go there first and most of items have been good quality.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: kentucky yeti on July 27, 2023, 07:09:00 AM
More progress  :D    I envy you guys.  I just don't have the dedication anymore.  Getting old ain't as fun as they said it would be.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: MNBob on July 27, 2023, 08:03:18 AM
The younger guys have all that youthful enthusiasm and go power.  Us old guys plug away at a slower pace.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on July 27, 2023, 11:23:46 AM
Carb is mounted and motor has been run, so I dont want to mess with anything. Yes using the lift points on both ends of the block.

I lost a bit of motivation waiting for the last 3 years for the motor to get done. I really thought it would be in the car by now as I had planned on putting it in the week after it came home. Still waiting on some small parts. Got some stuff today and hopefully will get the rest of what I am looking for by tomorrow. The heat is the big thing for me. I dont get around in it as well as I used to. I really hope that once the motor is back in the car I can dedicate a couple hours a night until its back on the road.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on July 31, 2023, 05:47:41 AM
Five minutes of progress. I got the correct ps pump from Ames, got it in place no problem. Comparing it to the 'correct' part from NAPA it became clear why I was pulling my hair out trying to get it in. Wasnt even close.  Larry (5th ta) was kind enough to send me the studs to mount the fan to the pulley (along with many other parts, THANKS AGAIN). BUT they were lost in the mail. Hopefully he has luck with the PO. SO, a replacement order was made through the parts place, but again they had a local storm and something messed up on their end and the order was lost. In the meantime I placed them on order with AMES but they are back ordered. I was told they were expecting them within a week so I let the order stand. After 2 1/2 weeks and counting I decided to check back with the parts place. I placed the order and 2 days later they were on my door step. Pretty good service  :grin:  Went to install yesterday and these darn things just keep fighting all the way :shock: The stud has 2 types of threads, one coarse and one fine. The fine threads go into the block, the coarse hold the fan assembly in place with a nut. The parts place sent the nuts and washers for the FINE thread side :???: SO, off to the local hardware store to get the proper nuts. Got there at 4:04, they closed at 4. Gives me a trip today.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on August 03, 2023, 12:41:51 PM
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53091512831_e1c30c49d3_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2oTvT5T)2023-08-03_02-33-25 (https://flic.kr/p/2oTvT5T) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53091691334_cff613801b_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2oTwN9w)2023-08-03_02-33-17 (https://flic.kr/p/2oTwN9w) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
I think I have the front buttoned up enough to get things rolling along. Finally got all of the correct parts in and installed. I ordered a clutch kit from summit, supposed to be on the door step this saturday. Hope to get some shop time on sunday to get working on that. Havent heard back on the transmission yet but I believe if I can get the clutch/bell housing installed I should be able to get the motor in the car. I will worry about the trans. install when the time comes. I am tired of looking at this thing sitting on the floor and all but ready to get it put where it belongs. Also ordered a new lifting sling from summit. Hope it will do the trick. I opted for the lesser of the 2 'good ones' they had. My builder let me use his to unload off my truck but they sell for almost $200. I spent the $100 and may use it a couple of times. If I did this on a regular basis def. would have gone all in.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on August 03, 2023, 12:43:30 PM
Forgot to add, I got the hole cut into the air cleaner at the correct spot. Need to get the welder hooked up (im out of gas right now) to  patch in the extra hole.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: Gene-73 on August 03, 2023, 01:07:50 PM
Engine looks really good Kerry! Do you by any chance have access to someone with an engine run stand? It would be good to fire it up and iron out any potential issues before installing in the car.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on August 03, 2023, 01:16:51 PM
Engine sure looks nice Kerry! Good enough to put a drop cloth behind and snap some pictures for framing. The pictures would make for nice wall art in a garage.

I couldn't help but notice how you had the lettering of the power steering and alternator belts lined up next to each other.

Regarding Gene's comment about running the engine before installing, I thought you said your engine builder ran the engine on a dyno?
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: b_hill_86 on August 03, 2023, 01:38:55 PM
What is it that worries you about the trans install?
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: tajoe on August 03, 2023, 04:48:32 PM
The end is (finally) near.  :smile:
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: N PRGRES on August 04, 2023, 05:43:22 AM
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53091512831_e1c30c49d3_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2oTvT5T)2023-08-03_02-33-25 (https://flic.kr/p/2oTvT5T) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53091691334_cff613801b_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2oTwN9w)2023-08-03_02-33-17 (https://flic.kr/p/2oTwN9w) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
I think I have the front buttoned up enough to get things rolling along. Finally got all of the correct parts in and installed. I ordered a clutch kit from summit, supposed to be on the door step this saturday. Hope to get some shop time on sunday to get working on that. Havent heard back on the transmission yet but I believe if I can get the clutch/bell housing installed I should be able to get the motor in the car. I will worry about the trans. install when the time comes. I am tired of looking at this thing sitting on the floor and all but ready to get it put where it belongs. Also ordered a new lifting sling from summit. Hope it will do the trick. I opted for the lesser of the 2 'good ones' they had. My builder let me use his to unload off my truck but they sell for almost $200. I spent the $100 and may use it a couple of times. If I did this on a regular basis def. would have gone all in.

Absolutly GORGEOUS!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on August 04, 2023, 06:03:53 AM
Yes, motor has been run and broken in. I have been told it 'ran beautifully'. Same guy built my 77 motor and it is fantastic so I am not worried about that aspect.

My concern with the transmission install is- I have never done it before :shock: Nor have I installed a clutch, or even installed a motor in a car for what that is worth. BUT, with the help here and some people I know I think I can persevere. One of the reasons it has sat in my floor for so long now, a bit of hesitation of making sure everything is ready to go.

Never thought about the drop cloth background thing, but that is a great idea.

Not sure anyone would notice the writing on the belts. I had them installed and then saw the writing wasnt aligned between the two. In fact one was even backwards. I have just a slight case of ocd and it was bothering me, after a 5 minute internal debate I removed the one and put it back in line with the other. I know as soon as they make a revolution they will be off but I know how they started :shock:

Same with the extra hole in the air cleaner. My first thought was to block it off from the inside with a simple piece of gorilla tape or something of the like, then the 'keep it gm' sticker on the outside will cover. But I will know that is just a hack that I will never be happy with. Get the welder out!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on August 04, 2023, 07:58:37 AM
It’s good to be a perfectionist, lots of things nobody would notice on your car because it’s out of sight. But surely it will bother you if it’s not perfect. It’s great to have high standards on workmanship. You and other perfectionist on TAC inspire members to do things the correct way.

I can understand your apprehension, with a second set of experienced hands you will do just fine installing your engine and transmission. Maybe a comparison would be for a skilled mechanic with little carpentry skills who is a little reluctant on replacing a window or entry door on their house. Where for you who has done it hundreds of times knows exactly what to do, there likely is no unforeseen challenges that you haven’t dealt with before.

Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: b_hill_86 on August 04, 2023, 10:46:06 AM
Yea I have no doubt you’ll get it done without issue. I wish I was closer and I’d help. I’ve pulled my engine and trans close to half a dozen time’s probably over the years. The trans is way easier and the engine isn’t that hard to begin with. Any tips I can provide I will. I’ll PM you something that might help a little. For me though, using a Jack with my adapter I made was key. I only pulled it and reinstalled it once by hand.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on August 04, 2023, 02:30:20 PM
Video is great! Makes it look easy, LOL.

It took me about 3 months to build up the courage to take my axles out! I talked to people, looked at utube etc. Then finally one day I put on my big boy pants and viola!  No big deal. Hope the experience installing the motor will be the same.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: b_hill_86 on August 04, 2023, 08:22:40 PM
I’m sure it will. Just don’t drop yours like I did with mine. Yea….. lol
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: Nexus on August 15, 2023, 11:55:02 AM
The engine looks great!!

Installing it is pretty much the same as anything else... if you don't cut corners, it will go alright and work even better!!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on August 16, 2023, 02:16:20 PM
Got my decals today. They were down on the list of priorities at this point until fellow member posted about the limited availability, so in a panic mode I placed the order. I can actually put a lot of them on as the car has been in paint and is ready to go. Might give me some incentive.
Still waiting to get my transmission back. Guy was on vacation last week. Figured Id give him a couple of days before I started bugging again.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: Nexus on August 17, 2023, 02:00:14 PM
Limited supply eh?

hmmmm

Phoenix Graphics?
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on August 18, 2023, 05:34:07 AM
Yes, Charlie to rehash, there was a post on here, someone looking for stripes. SO, I got in touch with PG and they have NO preformed stripes in stock and no idea when they will have more. They have been waiting a year so far with no projected delivery in sight. They do have roll material, which is how the factory did it so I figure no biggie, will be another learning curve. PG did not seem to be short on anything else, hood birds, smaller decals etc. But who knows? I spoke with them a year or so ago and at that time they told me they had a few 10th kits on the shelf and had no intentions of replacing their stock. But he did say they dont sell too many and they should be there for awhile. I missed out on the pre formed didnt want to find out they had nothing left. If they werent $700 I would order another as a spare, LOL.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: Nexus on August 20, 2023, 07:27:32 AM
I'll need to cross my fingers, and hope something is available when/if I get to that point!!

thank you
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on August 25, 2023, 12:47:05 PM
This thing is a continuous uphill battle. IF I ever get it running (not worried about finished at this point  :shock:) it will be a miracle.
Shop has had my transmission for a few weeks to give it a once over. Picked it up this morning and all is good. He tore into it and gave it a good health check. That was the last part I was waiting for to get my motor installed. Got back to the shop, opened up my new clutch that has been sitting on the bench for the last month and  :shock: :shock: :shock: I ordered the
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on August 25, 2023, 12:50:05 PM
WRONG one! (sorry for the 2 page, I hit a button that pasted, duhh). The part I wanted for a 26 spline clutch had an S at the end of the number. I ordered a 10 spline which has the exact same number, just no S. Will ship the wrong one back but I ordered the correct one. Supposed to be here in 4 to 5 days. I usually get stuff from summit in a 2 day turn around but this part is coming from Nevada, so I guess thats where the extra days come from. Really hoping to get things put together and the motor installed over labor day weekend.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on August 25, 2023, 02:52:17 PM
ARGH!!!, I feel for you.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: ryeguy2006a on August 28, 2023, 06:40:30 AM
Don't sweat the small stuff Kerry.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on August 30, 2023, 03:43:43 PM
So it continues, the 'wrong clutch' had a pilot bearing that was too big on the outside diameter. So, thinking ahead that the correct one coming this week may be wrong as well I ordered one from NAPA. Picked up today, its closer in size but still wrong! The search continues........
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: b_hill_86 on August 30, 2023, 04:24:15 PM
For what it’s worth I run a LUK brand clutch and the bushing it came with fit my crank. A point to note is LUK started including a throwout bearing with a composite rear material where the fork rides. I did as much research as I could to see what the consensus was but I only seemed to find people complaining about it who never ran it. I chose not to use mine and got an all steel bearing. (Two of which have failed on me so I’m tempted to try the part-composite one).

Btw the LUK kits run a kit $100 and the pedal feel is described as factory. They come in 11” and 10.5” so watch what you order depending on what size your flywheel is set up for.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: TATurbo on August 31, 2023, 07:54:18 PM
The engine does look spectacular, Kerry!
Looking forward to seeing it in its natural habitat.   I hope the engine and trans stop fighting the inevitable soon. 
Have you tried talking nice to 'em?  Let them know they were made for each other...Soul mates and all that ;-)

Sending positive energy your way.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on September 08, 2023, 06:29:17 AM
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53171013457_903a1793bb_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2p1xkRk)2023-09-07_06-57-12 (https://flic.kr/p/2p1xkRk) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
VICTORY! Some times the tail will wag the dog. I ordered the clutch pack from summit, info said perfect fit for Pontiac. Pilot bearing was too big, or so I thought. I have been on a wild goose chase trying to find the correct one. It only took 6 trys to get it right! Not being able to find the right size anywhere I figured to get an oversized bronze/brass bushing and have a machinist make it fit. Out of desperation I contacted Butler Performance to see if by chance they had heard of multiple size Pontiac bearings. Scott gave me a call (which was pretty decent as I have never bought or been in touch with them before this). I sent him pictures and he immediately said I WAS MEASURING IN THE WRONG PLACE :shock: :shock: :shock: There are 2 steps in the end of the crank. I had been measuring the furtherest point which was also the smaller diameter. I ASSUMED the bearing went in that position 1. because I have never done anything like this before and 2. the bearing I got from Summit almost fit in that position, but was just a hair too big.
So, with the help of Scott, the correct bearing was ordered, showed up yesterday on the doorstep and Im hoping to get work done early enough today to get started on putting this thing together. I did ask with his knowledge whether a bearing or a bushing is better. He said most of his customers are split and either way will be fine.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on September 08, 2023, 09:11:39 AM
Funny how something that would seem simple can turn into a project. Glad you got over the pilot bearing hurdle. I can’t wait to see pictures of the long awaited engine sitting in your TATA. Not that I want to rush you in any way!

I have nothing but good things to say about the folks at Butler. As you might recall my engine was built by Butler for another forum member. I called Butler to enquire on details on the engine, at the time I had not purchased anything from them. Scott spent a lot of time with me providing in depth information on the engine. I since have purchased parts, and accessories from them. Their service is always great, prices competitive and I seem to recall no shipping charges on several items.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: FormTA on September 08, 2023, 03:49:12 PM
Thanks for that posy Kerry! It has been decades since I installed a ST10 in a car. I will need to get a pilot bushing as well for my project, so I'll keep that in mind. Onwards and upwards!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on September 12, 2023, 05:15:33 AM
Another step forward and reached a minor milestone for my car last night. Got the clutch put in on Saturday. The stand the motor was on interfered with the mounting of the bell housing. So I had to get my lift from the other garage (after unloading my recent motor purchase :-D) and make a temp motor stand. Last night I was able to get the bell housing and transmission installed! :grin: :grin:
 First time in at least 10 years these parts have been together, and the first time since 1979 that they have been in this condition. Gonna take the core support off tonight or tomorrow and get things ready to install into the car, hopefully Friday or Saturday.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53181137451_ae2f0b7685_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2p2remX)2023-09-11_05-54-39 (https://flic.kr/p/2p2remX) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53181639788_c31741106c_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2p2tNFW)2023-09-11_05-54-29 (https://flic.kr/p/2p2tNFW) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53180548702_be65d9fe80_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2p2odm7)2023-09-11_05-54-23 (https://flic.kr/p/2p2odm7) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53181330784_a5ac830c39_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2p2sdQh)2023-09-11_05-54-16 (https://flic.kr/p/2p2sdQh) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53181135556_1aa11aaecb_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2p2rdNh)2023-09-11_05-53-42 (https://flic.kr/p/2p2rdNh) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr


Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on September 12, 2023, 05:18:16 AM
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53181328984_0df480e24f_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2p2sdif)2023-09-11_05-53-24 (https://flic.kr/p/2p2sdif) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53181637763_e784a4313f_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2p2tN62)2023-09-11_05-53-31 (https://flic.kr/p/2p2tN62) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53181328329_58939b8f2a_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2p2sd6X)2023-09-11_05-53-02 (https://flic.kr/p/2p2sd6X) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53180546692_88ce846c20_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2p2ocKs)2023-09-11_05-53-16 (https://flic.kr/p/2p2ocKs) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on September 12, 2023, 05:20:38 AM
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53180547977_b1faeb30f7_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2p2od8B)2023-09-11_05-53-59 (https://flic.kr/p/2p2od8B) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
My awesome motor stand, c'mon, how else is a carpenter supposed to do it :lol: And its treated so it will last!

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53155574341_91dbceb464_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2oZbdkF)2023-08-31_05-54-24 (https://flic.kr/p/2oZbdkF) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53156001520_513af759d7_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2oZdpjQ)2023-08-31_05-54-01 (https://flic.kr/p/2oZdpjQ) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
And a reminder of what the motor looked liked the day I brought it home.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: ryeguy2006a on September 12, 2023, 06:16:47 AM
Fantastic update Kerry!! Won't be long now and you'll have it stabbed in the car!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: FormTA on September 12, 2023, 06:22:50 AM
Nice!! I see you had two crankshafts and two bellhousings on the pallet. Just duplicates or other projects?
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on September 12, 2023, 06:42:25 AM
This is pretty darn exciting for me! I love the before and after pictures. Like many others when I see a basket case, I can dream that some day it will be restored to perfection. But getting there can be quite the journey. One of my favorite things about TAC is watching when you and other members take on the challenge and bring a pile of parts back to life.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: b_hill_86 on September 12, 2023, 11:14:58 AM
Awesome! Can’t wait to see your continued progress. I dig the stand too
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on September 13, 2023, 06:01:34 AM
Luke, there were a ton of parts that came with this car. The interior was full of trim stuff, and being the motor was completely disassembled, there was a ton of motor parts. There was an extra crank, I ran the numbers and I think it was for a chevy truck? extra flywheel, no idea what it was from. Also a couple of bell housings, one correct again no idea what the other is for? There was a good carb in the pile but after I ran the numbers found it was not original. I got in touch with the seller after a couple of years to see if he had the original but it was not to be. That is one important part of the motor not original. I was able to find a 'correct' numbers matching one so I figured that was about as good.

Larry, my biggest weakness with old cars is that I only look at them with rose coloured glasses. I look at a dilapidated POS and can clearly see the finished project in my mind. This is ok if one has a bottomless check book and an infinite matter of time, I have neither! I have seen cars posted on another forum for sale that look pretty darn good to me and most of the comments come back 'parts car'! Maybe I should change my name to that.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: FormTA on September 13, 2023, 06:13:26 AM
I'm in the same boat Kerry but maybe worse. I buy the darn parts car...
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: ryeguy2006a on September 13, 2023, 07:52:33 AM
Haha, that feeling when you buy the parts car and it's in better shape than your project car. Then you end up restoring two cars hahaha
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: stros on September 13, 2023, 05:17:42 PM
Great to see you're making progress Kerry!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on September 16, 2023, 09:14:20 AM
Slight hiccup, but nothing surprises me at this point. I knew the motor mounts were not right as someone had welded them to the frame. Cut them off today to re-install, and from what I can tell they are not correct. They do not match the picture in the assembly manual, nor do they match a spare that I have, nor do they match the ones on my TATA burn car I have behind the garage. SO, back a few steps and order a new pair, along with some other odds and ends. I took the core off in anticipation of the motor install. Bottom branches had a bit of rust, as I did not take them off when I painted the core. So, a bit of touch up with those. In the meantime I can clean 3 years of dust off the frame.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53190793462_93a79d379e_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2p3hHKU)2023-09-16_11-04-35 (https://flic.kr/p/2p3hHKU) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53190793197_9aba440197_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2p3hHFk)2023-09-16_11-04-27 (https://flic.kr/p/2p3hHFk) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53190794017_b5e16b09ac_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2p3hHVt)2023-09-16_11-04-56 (https://flic.kr/p/2p3hHVt) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53190794902_82aa25c3ac_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2p3hJbJ)2023-09-16_11-05-23 (https://flic.kr/p/2p3hJbJ) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53190795467_da9c421b3d_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2p3hJmt)2023-09-16_11-05-39 (https://flic.kr/p/2p3hJmt) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
Here is an original motor mount I had on the shelf. Notice the blue paint spot. This only fits on the passenger side. On the build sheet for the motor mounts is 'blue/green'. When I restored my 77 the mounts had blue paint on one side and green on the other. I would assume blue is for the passenger side.
Also in the assemble manual they show a 'shield' which mounts on the top of the motor mount with a note that says r.h. side only. Anyone know anything about that?
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: MNBob on September 18, 2023, 08:41:57 AM
Quote
There are 2 steps in the end of the crank. I had been measuring the furtherest point which was also the smaller diameter. I ASSUMED the bearing went in that position 1. because I have never done anything like this before and 2. the bearing I got from Summit almost fit in that position, but was just a hair too big.

The same thing happened to me when I installed the TKO600.  American Powertrain sent me one that maybe was for a Chevy.  I had to order the correct Pontiac one and put it in the right place.  I hope the staking job I did was OK; no problems so far.

Luk clutches has favorable reviews.  My Centerforce has much more pedal pressure than stock.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on September 19, 2023, 12:33:29 PM
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53199493188_ef8000003a_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2p44iTb)2023-09-19_02-29-45 (https://flic.kr/p/2p44iTb) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
After a bit of a wait, this showed up today. Randy C did the resto. Looks beautiful, kinda goldish in the pic but thats just the bad lighting in my house.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: b_hill_86 on September 19, 2023, 01:45:55 PM
Looks great! What was turnaround time? I have one I’m going to send eventually.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: Jack on September 24, 2023, 08:35:12 AM
Kerry, I was hoping to hear the motor running in the car but see you made some progress. I need to catchup some more but that's a major milestone.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: FormTA on September 24, 2023, 05:11:51 PM
Nice! Finally some bling!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on September 25, 2023, 06:32:31 AM
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53200117950_5a408c2f3c_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2p47vAW)2023-09-19_06-35-19 (https://flic.kr/p/2p47vAW) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
Not appropriate, but I figured the tenth car was upscale so it should have had the dash upgraded a bit.

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53212894375_4226e2e2ae_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2p5eZA8)2023-09-25_08-25-00 (https://flic.kr/p/2p5eZA8) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53212894580_c419a78001_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2p5eZDE)2023-09-25_08-25-09 (https://flic.kr/p/2p5eZDE) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
Sprayed things down with simple green and a rinse of clean water. This poor thing had 3 years of dust on it. Also got the new motor mounts installed. That was a bit of a pain in the ......... I used a magnetic pick up tool to hold the bolt then fished it through a small hole in the side of the a arm. This took a bit of finaggeling to get things aligned but worked ok with a bit of patience. Then onto the driver side and much to my chagrin there was no access hole. Had to do the same trick but up from the underneath. Turned out that side was a bit easier.

Ram Air sight says they have exhaust manifolds in stock. I am going to call today to confirm and if they do will place an order. I will put them on the motor before I do the install. I wanted to go with them all along and have been waiting since last august for a pair. Then when they were available I was under the impression they were sold out again and figured on using the stock mani's. I have waited this long a couple more weeks wont  hurt at this point.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: MNBob on September 25, 2023, 08:04:10 AM
Motor mounts and dash look great.  I have wondered about installing those mounts with the limited access.  It looks like it would be very difficult, but must be doable as people replace them.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on September 25, 2023, 01:12:38 PM
I have a set still on the frame of my car that burnt that is behind my barn. The bolt  heads are showing and I had a crazy idea that they may have been tapped into the cross member of some description. I tried to pull them off and the head just spun. The service manual shows them installed as I have done with the bolt coming up and the nut on the mount side, so thats how I did it. Then I noticed in the fine print is says 'direction optional'!
I would imagine without the wheels on, without the coils in place etc. it would be easy access. I was afraid I was going to have to take everything apart to get at them.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on September 25, 2023, 03:23:35 PM
Kerry, dash bezel looks great, a good place to spend your money since that's something you see every time you're behind the wheel.

I removed and reinstalled my engine mounts from the bare subframe with the lower control arms removed, definitely the easiest way to do it. When I had issues with the shaker being slightly higher on the driver's side and cockeyed I swapped the mounts with the engine in the car. I had to lift the engine with a floor jack as high as it would go. The Ram Air manifolds are much larger than the log style and make it more difficult. If you were even remotely thinking about new mounts, now was the best time to replace them. Not to mention any 44 year old part with rubber should probably be replaced anyway. You will not regret having replaced the mounts now.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: TATurbo on September 25, 2023, 07:34:03 PM
I really like the chrome bezels on the dash.  It looks really nice.  I agree that the dash IS one of the best places to spend money...Like 5th T/A said...You'll enjoy it every time you sit in the car.  I put 70' Challenger TA gauge faces in my '11 Challenger.  One of my favorite mods in any car.
Gettin' those engine mounts in is a nice milestone too.  I've done them twice on this car in my life...I have no desire to do it a third time.
Congrats on the progress.  Forgive me if I missed an update somewhere, but...Do you have a target date to get the engine dropped in?   Getting excited for you!
 
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on September 26, 2023, 05:17:07 AM
Hi Tom, I have been meaning to send you a note to see how your car was doing.
I had planned on getting the motor installed a month ago, then realized the mounts were wrong. Then the plan was to install this past weekend after I got the new mounts in place. NOW, I have decided to go with upgraded exhaust manifolds so I will wait until I can get them bolted to the motor before I install. At the beginning of the summer my plan was to have the car ready for Hershey, which is next week!! I wont make that deadline :shock:
I figure at this point with winter closing in I realistically wont have it on the road until spring so I may as well wait for the correct parts and do it right the first time.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: ryeguy2006a on September 26, 2023, 06:13:26 AM
Looks fantastic Kerry! 
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on October 31, 2023, 06:03:07 AM
Need to get my Oct post before it slips away. Hard to believe November will be here in a few hours. I had planned on having my car ready for the Hershey show the first week in Oct. and still have not gotten any closer than I was about 6 months ago.
Oct was busy for me, both work and off work. Should have plenty of time coming up though. We did get the motor kinda put into place this past weekend. Didnt have any real problems getting it set in place, however we had a hard time getting the mounts to align. Fooled with it for a bit then decided to step back and take a break. Planned on hitting it Sunday but things got in the way, hopefully will be able to get it buttoned up sometime in the next few days. Then the wiring and vacuum lines :???:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53300160880_4087ed639a_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2pcXfT3)2023-10-31_07-41-41 (https://flic.kr/p/2pcXfT3) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr

On my recent trip I did pick up these parts. One of the few things I did not have with my car.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53300155180_b269a14a28_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2pcXebL)2023-10-31_07-37-18 (https://flic.kr/p/2pcXebL) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on October 31, 2023, 07:10:49 PM
Kerry, congratulations, it has a new heart and only a matter of time before it will be beating.

That space saver spare looks brand new. I wonder how many people actual tried using them.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on November 01, 2023, 05:47:57 AM
3/4 of the way in :shock:

The tire is near perfect with great lettering. From what I understand this was found in a junk yard with the tire being well preserved but the side of the rim that was laying on the floor rusted through in a couple of places right on the outer rim. I do think someone repainted it at one point. It looks good from 5 ft but I plan on stripping it back down and doing some bondo repair to the edge (never plan on using it) to make it look a bit better. I have been kinda looking for one of these as its one of the last pieces I need to have a 'complete' car. I was able to pick it up from a friend on my recent trip so that saved a bit on shipping.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: rkellerjr on November 01, 2023, 06:53:06 AM
Love to see the project moving forward, even if slowly. Keep at it my friend!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: ryeguy2006a on November 01, 2023, 10:52:02 AM
Congrats on getting the motor installed Kerry! Huge step forward.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: Nexus on November 04, 2023, 08:25:23 PM
Engine looks good in there!!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: TATurbo on November 07, 2023, 09:09:39 PM
Congrats on the engine install!  That's a big one.  You're practically finished, now.  Right? :-P
Looking good.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on November 08, 2023, 06:57:56 AM
I said the engine was in 3/4! That thing fought me as hard as it could but I finally won. Had one side bolted in, fought off and on for the last week to get the dr. side mount to bolt up. Got the trans mount in last night and the trans cross member installed. So as far as I know I will call the motor installed!! :grin:  I ordered a new wiring harness for the motor only as the front harness is pretty good. Its supposed to be here today. I can go forward with getting the fuel line hooked up, and start the dreaded task of vacuum lines, which I am not looking forward to. I tend to look at things with rose coloured specs but I think being realistic at this point I am setting the first of the year as a goal to get it started and running.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on November 13, 2023, 08:02:16 AM
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53329534173_57c1424c72_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2pfxNx8)2023-11-13_08-55-55 (https://flic.kr/p/2pfxNx8) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53329533403_172de7c69c_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2pfxNiR)2023-11-13_08-55-32 (https://flic.kr/p/2pfxNiR) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53328434247_e8dfea5b17_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2pfsayT)2023-11-13_08-55-40 (https://flic.kr/p/2pfsayT) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
New wiring harness. Got it from Summit as they offered immediate shipping. Ames had a note that they come directly from the supplier and will have additional shipping time.
It looked good, but I do say I was a bit disappointed that nothing was labled. For the cost I dont think it would be that hard to day what wire goes where. I suppose they figure anyone doing this work is not a numbskull such as myself and knows where things go. With the help of what 'Wheels 78' posted in another thread I was able to decipher things quickly.

Old block came right out, and new one plugged in pretty easy.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on November 13, 2023, 08:23:22 AM
Great investment Kerry. Especially when you consider the condition of the original harness.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on November 13, 2023, 10:09:22 AM
The good/bad part is the other harness' look fine. It would be nice to put all new in considering how nice these look, however the cost of the new stuff for a couple feet of wire is ridiculous!! I suppose the front harness was never really touched but over the years the engine stuff surely was mucked with and took a beating. As typical found a couple more small parts I have placed on order.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: ryeguy2006a on January 23, 2024, 07:15:33 AM
Any updates Kerry?
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: kentucky yeti on January 23, 2024, 07:21:54 AM
What he said  :grin:
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: wheels78ta on January 23, 2024, 10:17:09 AM
What they said...... 8)
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on January 23, 2024, 04:47:19 PM
Kerry, I will give you a pass for not updating. Between the weather, holidays and running a business it is probably safe to say you are not sitting on your hands.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on January 24, 2024, 06:33:19 AM
Sorry for the dead air. List of excuses: First I was having a hard time logging on to the site. I had to switch to ffox which I did not like, but for some reason the old way is back and working fine. So I should be on here more often now, arent you guys lucky :shock:
2nd-I really havent had that much time in the shop as of late. Work has been busy and I lost a bit of motivation to go out into a cold shop for a couple of hours of work.
C-As much as I hate to admit, I am a huge football fan so Sundays in the early winter are pretty much me sitting in front of the tube all day. All that will be coming to an end soon so I will face the depression of no football :lol: and boredom which should give me some more shop time.

Progress update: Not really sure where I left off, but the wiring is complete, I picked up some parts to get some of the vaccum lines hooked up. I used a ebrock alum manifold (against my better judgement) and when I went to hook up the new throttle cable I bought realized there was nothing to attach it to the manifold? I looked at pics of the part when I dropped it off to the shop a year+ ago and lo and behold there is the bracket. No surprise, after calling the shop they had no idea where that part was and would call if they found it. I had to order an aftermarket bracket from ames at over $100 so not too happy about that. Its installed and I plan on getting the cable in soon. My plan now is to get the fuel line hooked up, finish the electrical (battery, starter connections) and see if I can get the motor to fire up. I think if I put my mind to it I can have this car running by late spring.  :shock:
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: wheels78ta on January 24, 2024, 07:35:47 PM
Great to see you've had some time with it.  I know what you mean about football Sunday's.

I've gotten too lazy lately but just started working on some things.   

I just picked up my engine today.  Pics tomorrow.

That engine is looking good for how far you've gone as far as the install.  Can't wait to see more progress.....when you get the time.  :D

Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on February 05, 2024, 07:01:00 AM
Got a little more done over the weekend. I had a few loose bolts from the install so I went back and made sure everything was socked down good and tight. I got a new pair of 'correct' battery cables and got those installed. I was going to get those from napa but they have let me down with parts as of late so I chickened out and spent the big bucks :sad: I think at this point all of the electrical connections are done :? I am getting a grasp on the vacuum crap. Still looking for a few parts for that. Fuel lines hooked up. Refinished the gas pedal and got a new cable installed. Need to place another order for some more parts, probably wont be in until the end of the week. I am planning on going to the AACA convention towards the end of the week so I wont get much accomplished.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on February 05, 2024, 05:08:11 PM
Kerry, good to see you making progress. Hope you enjoy the AACA convention!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: FormTA on February 05, 2024, 08:19:13 PM
Kerry, any time you can do something to the car it's progress.  Eventually it will all add up to a finished car. Have fun at the AACA!
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: Wallington on February 06, 2024, 01:08:13 AM
I'm not sure if they suggest anything in the harness kits but way want to mask up the ends of the wires/firewall and spray some underbody type thick sealant into those terminal backs to seal. Otherwise it will collect moisture and lead to electrical issues long-term.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on February 06, 2024, 06:56:43 AM
Thanks for the advice. They gave some contact gel for the install, but I didnt think of putting anything on top. It was quite a mess when I took the old off, I know thats what that crap was. Hate to put goop on a nice shiny new part but I know it will be worth it in the long run.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on February 18, 2024, 09:29:20 AM
Got a few hours in the shop yesterday, hope to get a couple more today. I think all of the vacuum stuff is done. I have a couple of loose ends but the routing is all figured out at this point, which to me was the biggest hurdle. My builder put a single port to hook up the br. booster. Ames had a carb vac tree but its not correct. I got it and had to rig it up. It looks fine but not 100% correct. I found the right one and hopefully it will be here towards the end of the week. I looked everywhere but could not seem to find the right vac switches. Ended up finding some stuff from Franks. I got the power steering hoses hooked up -again got stuff from ames and its not right! They have been my go to forever but Im starting to see a theme here :sad: At this point just about everything is ready for a start. Just a couple of minor bits to take care of first. Enclosed is a few pics of some of the ports I got and cleaned up. Once everything is together as best as I can I will post an overall shot of the motor.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53535537689_a1813f20f0_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2pyKCcT)20231127_100543 (https://flic.kr/p/2pyKCcT) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53535402508_825643fda5_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2pyJW2b)20231127_100935 (https://flic.kr/p/2pyJW2b) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
Switch for the air cleaner. Not repro'd. Had to find used. Still looking for the clip that holds it in place.

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53535529734_353473798c_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2pyKzQJ)20240122_135221 (https://flic.kr/p/2pyKzQJ) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53535634740_8601280f9d_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2pyL84b)20240122_150227 (https://flic.kr/p/2pyL84b) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53535212761_5e269f4034_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2pyHXBF)20240122_140348 (https://flic.kr/p/2pyHXBF) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr

Throttle kick down, cleaned up a bit and reinstalled.(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53535384683_f86b33a229_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2pyJQHR)20240216_145951 (https://flic.kr/p/2pyJQHR) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53534318317_0626cd67ae_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2pyDnJe)20240217_125102 (https://flic.kr/p/2pyDnJe) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53535624435_ee5ff81acc_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2pyL4Zv)20240217_125706 (https://flic.kr/p/2pyL4Zv) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
3 port switch (broke) that was on my motor, the one I found from Franks then cleaned up. This mounts in the head at the pass side. Differs between auto trans and manual. I had one for auto, Go figure.

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53537173110_51b85c6753_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2pyU1mN)20240202_110502 (https://flic.kr/p/2pyU1mN) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53536935423_d90f04a5ea_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2pySMGK)20240202_110506 (https://flic.kr/p/2pySMGK) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53536748136_aea88093d7_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2pyRQ2E)20240202_133639 (https://flic.kr/p/2pyRQ2E) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53536935018_653e87ddcd_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2pySMzL)20240202_134334 (https://flic.kr/p/2pySMzL) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
Gas pedal cleaned and painted. I took the metal trim off and polished it, cleaned the rubber pad between each rib with a nail to get all of the grime out. I did this awhile ago when I was waiting for parts. I find taking care of little things like this (minnie restoration) keeps the momentum going and helps mentally knowing that at least something is getting finished.

Today is the 45 anniv. to the day of the official intro of the Tenth Anniv. T/A.  :grin: :grin:




Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: tajoe on February 18, 2024, 10:37:10 AM
Wow. Talk about your details. looks like you're honing in on the finished product. Should be an enjoyable spring. :)
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: 5th T/A on February 18, 2024, 01:43:08 PM
Nice work Kerry. All those little details add up on the finished car. It takes a lot of perseverance to take a basket case and turn it into a a car. Especially when you have missing pieces.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: wheels78ta on February 18, 2024, 09:04:44 PM
Keep at it when you get the chance.  I'm rebuilding the distributor and carburetor right now.  Soon I'll be installing the transmission and engine. 

It'll be great to see your engine and everything hooked up and ready to run.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on February 28, 2024, 04:47:52 PM
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53557063460_53d69d1d81_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2pADX4S)20240224_143723 (https://flic.kr/p/2pADX4S) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
Had this part on an old rusty air cleaner can I had. Cleaned it up and was even able to reuse the original band clamp.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53555761537_79ae859012_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2pAxh3V)20240224_153128 (https://flic.kr/p/2pAxh3V) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53557063945_8bcf2d19bf_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2pADXde)20240224_153536 (https://flic.kr/p/2pADXde) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53556611556_d722827688_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2pABCJq)20240224_154112 (https://flic.kr/p/2pABCJq) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on February 28, 2024, 04:54:55 PM
My motor builder is more about making a motor run and a bit less about the details :sad: I have been trying to get everything tidied up the best I can. I have spent way too long on getting all of the vacuum stuff in place but I think that is behind me for now. He originally just had a single fitting to run the hose to the brake booster. After pulling it out I found it was nothing more than a hardware store air hose fitting :shock: I ordered a carb vac tree from Ames. I found they do not sell the right part for the '79 carb so I had to do a bit of finaggelling to make it work. Still kinda hack and I wasnt happy. SO the search started for the correct part. I found one and ordered it without the hard line, then the next day I found THE right one with the hard line so I picked it up, cleaned and installed. Looks much better than what was on there.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53557066900_c4fdb2559a_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2pADY6b)20240223_132740 (https://flic.kr/p/2pADY6b) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53557066580_00b7830980_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2pADXZE)20240223_135505 (https://flic.kr/p/2pADXZE) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr

Before with the Ames part and then the correct one.(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53556954064_ed2f18a6ac_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2pADoxJ)20240223_135538 (https://flic.kr/p/2pADoxJ) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53556613336_e57949fbee_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2pABDg7)20240223_141432 (https://flic.kr/p/2pABDg7) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53556815408_95a4e887a8_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2pACFk7)20240221_174845 (https://flic.kr/p/2pACFk7) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
Had to order a new radiator shroud, will be ready to install this asap.



Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: b_hill_86 on February 28, 2024, 07:10:47 PM
Wow.ive got my dash half apart trying to clean up several years of “don’t get it right (pretty)just get it running” wiring I’ve installed for various reasons. Now you’re gonna make me pull my accelerator pedal and paint it while I’m there too lol. Mine looks like your “before” picture.

I like that throttle cable bracket. Simple yet effective and better looking than the universal one I’m using. Say, do you have an original style on your 77? I’d love to see a pic if so.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: wheels78ta on February 28, 2024, 09:32:40 PM
It's looking great.

Are those Ames striped hoses? 

I just got the rest of my order from them on their hoses. 

Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on February 29, 2024, 06:05:21 AM
Yes, they did come from Ames. At first I thought they were a bit pricey, but I got some regular black only hoses at napa and they were of a different quality. Supposedly the same size but the napa stuff was a bit bigger, both inside and outside diameter. The napa stuff was about a $1 ft. less. I went to autozone and their hose was a bit closer in size but had made in china printed all over it. I needed a piece for the fuel line return to the canister so I used a scotch bright pad to erase the lettering.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: Jack on March 02, 2024, 07:03:23 AM
Kerry, I was hoping to see a huge update but I guess some progress is better than no progress.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on March 03, 2024, 06:38:06 AM
Unfortunately. It seems that for every step I take forward there are a couple back. I went to hook up the clutch linkage and the rod that pushes on the fork was a bit worn out from years of use. The reality is that it would probably hold up for another 40 years but I could not with a good conscience install it. SO, order some more parts :shock: :shock: It came in fri. but I had to work yesterday so havent had any shop time.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on March 03, 2024, 03:33:19 PM
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53565731296_6722caf98e_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2pBqnHj)20240303_142240 (https://flic.kr/p/2pBqnHj) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53565733121_5f1eafd49a_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2pBqofM)20240303_150313 (https://flic.kr/p/2pBqofM) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53565917663_79a969f239_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2pBrk7x)20240303_144218 (https://flic.kr/p/2pBrk7x) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53564874897_66911876a8_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2pBkZ8P)20240303_144949 (https://flic.kr/p/2pBkZ8P) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53566164065_6caff88f55_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2pBsAmR)20240303_130708 (https://flic.kr/p/2pBsAmR) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53566164315_3aacffa632_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2pBsAra)20240303_131033 (https://flic.kr/p/2pBsAra) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53565759766_f6347d8dda_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2pBqwbb)20240303_152925 (https://flic.kr/p/2pBqwbb) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr

Although I am a bit under the weather today, I got a little bit accomplished. Radiator in and hooked up, Was gonna hook up the clutch linkage but ran into a small problem getting the ball installed into the engine block. Not enough room for a full size wrench so I will hit HF tomorrow and pick up a shorty. I think I can get it screwed in all the way with that. I dont want to be the boy that cried wolf but I think I am a battery and a radiator fill away from finally getting this beast fired up.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: wheels78ta on March 03, 2024, 06:26:20 PM
Great pics.  I'm not too far behind.  Close to getting the motor/tranny installed.

Do you have your exhaust ready?  Or are you taking it to someone for the exhaust?
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on March 04, 2024, 06:48:30 AM
I picked up the pypes system last summer at the camaro nationals. It saved a ton on shipping. I do need to get the down pipes and the splitters. I have been tossing this back and forth. On one side I figure what the heck, but on the other hand there is an exhaust shop in my town that can have it done in a day, maybe 2 if they run into trouble with parts. I might spend weeks doing it myself so...............

My only other exhaust experience was when I had my 85 trans am. I put an SLP exhaust on it eliminating the cat. It took ALL day sat and most of sunday to get the old one off. Then it took me about a half hour to put the new one on. It was a very frustrating experience but the biggest part of that problem was the car was not high enough off of the ground.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: FormTA on March 04, 2024, 08:12:39 PM
I found my pypes system was fairly easy to install but, the hangers they supplied we barely adequate. If I had to do it again I would get some oe type hangers with the rubber isolaters and the bar you weld to the pipe that pops in. Or have a professional shop do it.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on March 05, 2024, 07:10:52 AM
The problem I had with the settup I bought for my 77 was they sent the wrong mufflers. I dont remember the details now but I needed something like centre in flow and offset out flow and what they gave me was the opposite. The installer tried and tried but could not get them right. I contacted summit (where I bought it) and they said since it was sold as a complete system I had to send the entire thing back for an exchange! By that time he had half installed :shock: I was kinda upset they would not just exchange the mufflers. So I ended up buying an additional set. I  hope theyre right this time around. I have the dual settup on my 77 with an auto trans. The pypes guy I talked to at Carlisle said that the transverse muffler actually puts out a bit more hp so I had made up my mind that I was going that way. Wanted to see the performance difference between the 2 cars. BUT the tenth came with a dual muffler settup so I figured on sticking with that. Its already modified so for authenticity it doesnt make sense but I figured what the hey.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on March 06, 2024, 05:33:55 AM
Had a bit of a lull yesterday, I was able to squeeze in a little shop time. Got the clutch z bar linkage hooked up, and most of the reverse lock out hooked up. I say most as I need to attach the rod at the steering column. I tried installing the column but like everything else that is 1 step forward and 1 back I lost the bolts or maybe never had them for the steering column. I will stick with the latter as the column was loose and not installed when I bought the car. So I got it pretty much in place will need to pick up some fasteners today. On my way back from a job I stopped at Azone and picked up coolant, dot 3, steering fluid and a battery. $300 :shock: later I should be really close to a start up now.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: roadking77 on March 14, 2024, 04:34:00 PM
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53588331633_80db4396c5_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2pDqd1i)20240314_165818 (https://flic.kr/p/2pDqd1i) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
Steering column installed. First time in who knows how long this has been in place. It was out when I bought the car.


(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53587251372_e55d548056_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2pDjET7)20240314_171043 (https://flic.kr/p/2pDjET7) by Kerry Grubb (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156399515@N07/), on Flickr
Did a quick battery hookup just because, and LET THERE BE LIGHT! Footwell light works anyway.
Title: Re: My Tenth Anniv.
Post by: FormTA on March 15, 2024, 05:13:09 AM
Dash an column look great! Getting close!