TAC Spotlight => Projects & Restorations => Topic started by: 737driver on March 14, 2021, 04:27:18 PM
-
Figured I would post a redux version of my original restoration post on the 72 Firebird which is my current project.
Right now my 72 Firebird is in PDF , Paint Detention Facility! I was supposed to get it back next week, however it got an “Extended Stay” for another 2 weeks because of the really cold weather we have had in Las Vegas. The car is actually at a paint shop in Pahrump Nevada. Spring has been delayed a bit here and I talked to my painter yesterday about it. He said he didn’t want to spray until the temps came up a bit. Apparently spray paint doesn’t like to cure in colder temps, which I understand. Typically by this time of year temps are in the 70’s, but lately they have been in the low 50’s.
In the meantime, I have been moving my shop into a bigger shop space. Essentially I am going from 600sqft to about 1900sqft. In my opinion moving a shop is harder to do than moving a house. It has given me an opportunity to regroup and re organized, which is good because I have had the same shop space for 5 years now.
To recap the 72 Firebird , I originally purchased it in 2018 from New Mexico. I turned out to be the 3rd owner and the car was originally an Espirit Firebird with a 400 2v carb. When I bought it it had Formula add ons, ( hood, badges etc.) . At some point in life spoilers and wheel flares were added, it also received a fair paint job , white with blue stripes.
Overall the car was in fair shape, not major body issues and was complete but it had sat since 1996. The car had a lot of dirt on it from sitting. So much , I believe I became a landowner in New Mexico! The biggest rust issue was the trunk pan. After stripping the car down to shell I had the body on a rotisserie and then I was able to replace the trunk pan and several minor areas that had some rust rot.
Originally the car had an automatic transmission (Turbo 400) which I decided to swap to a manual TKO600. I also had the motor rebuilt as well as the rear axle. The motor got a bump in power with a little more cam and compression . I had the rear axle rebuilt with 3.23 gears and a posi traction. The transmission swap went fairly straightforward and I am really looking forward to driving it when all is done.
I kept the suspension and brakes mostly stock , but I did install rear disk brakes using the kit from Scarebird. I used Delrin bushings on the front A arms and new front and rear springs and shocks.
I replaced the stock AC system withe the Surefit series from Vintage air. The entire electrical system is also new. I chose the American Autowire resto kit which works great!
A few weeks back I bought a set of Honeycomb rims. I was going to go with Year One 17” Honeycombs , but came across a great set of original 15x7 honeycombs with original trim rings and center caps.
So when the car gets out of paint jail, I’ll be doing the exterior trim and interior. I’m having the car painted “Soul Red” and the interior will be black. Originally the car was revere silver, black vinyl top with blue interior..
I will repost up some pictures of the progress from the beginning till present.
Jim
-
When I started the car was pretty much a complete “roller”. It was a complete car but in much need of restoration. The “my 72” title was chosen because of the vanity plates that were on the car when I bought it.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/7E04F659-BED5-455B-B604-BC839F33070E.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/0b974730-5486-454c-9818-b6aac5d26d0b)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/9B2BCC07-1847-488C-80E1-9D0503E32BE6.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/47277379-e6bc-4dd7-810f-7f788492a0ca)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/F3141E66-14A7-4C6A-A92F-80422D304276.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/833bd6f7-c08a-4c3d-a841-698a27dbb0cb)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/507AB00C-D1A3-44CD-982F-54B876B52495.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/711c0e94-2bab-420f-9099-baef74e76237)
-
This is a copy of the build sheet. It was a pretty well optioned Firebird for the time. The car spent its life in Albuquerque, which meant it was a good environment for minimal rust.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/r721/jc73driver/Mobile%20Uploads/C571D66D-1117-4B8C-9331-D54531FEC41D_zps1mvavpeo.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/a/5b81f12a-485f-412f-9d4c-cf13338a48f1/p/d464d306-4771-45a5-a10b-aa690fa0ed8c)
-
In the first week I removed the front clip. The nose,fenders and hood were removed to remove the engine, front suspension and subframe. I cannot exaggerate how much dirt and dust this car collected after being dormant since 1996.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/CF8E37F3-B710-4FB7-B63F-89A80FAACD96.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/ce193f89-9670-4e85-a8e6-22564e8ec4bc)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/CD093C18-2F1B-4FAC-B18F-4
13FC2641918.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/5e7c1fce-a7e7-42a7-b52e-8993082af226)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/4695E134-C997-42F7-97B3-A42614D78645.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/43eb9985-9766-4605-8ea2-e5b3e5c65824)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/72CB81FB-8B9E-4A5B-92F7-685A9346BBB1.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/b7f66c4e-efc0-4063-833d-e701dbb8a884)
-
Once the motor was removed it , was time to remove the rest of the drivetrain, suspension, subframe and interior. Again everything on this car was dirty, very dirty. On the positive side it was complete. On the negative side the gas tank was roached. There was about 2 gallons of rotten fuel in the tank. The tank and sending unit were trashed. The only serious rust rot was the trunk pan, otherwise beneath the dirt was a good car for restoration. I decided to use a rotisserie on this project and that did make working on the body and cleaning a lot less challenging.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/F8C7FB9C-793C-4E79-B278-A997D2AAF712.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/ea0f6fb5-d4d6-4bc0-bac0-a22b19e5cc04)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/DE494BCF-1BA8-4184-807F-98205A40DC69.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/e00b40e0-9e01-43ad-be58-ccf95fecf64d)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/FB2F503E-1A7C-47F0-B84E-19D2F91FC803.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/6d3e24cd-49f6-4d39-9931-e6719c614e40)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/6FFC6388-FE03-4598-A23C-DB6A70C6E345.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/115553a7-28de-4531-9589-723651cf7979)
-
With the car on the rotisserie, it was time to clean the underbody and address the rust issues. This was my first time doing bodywork and fixing rust issues. It took a lot of time cutting, measuring and fitting the replacement pieces. This was a part that really just took time and patience.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/695C2D24-BBA7-469C-ABC7-31562866DBCB.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/9ee2df2a-928f-4528-8646-f7d2279f6994)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/ACC5FA6F-4285-4BB0-9C3B-C44F192D9113.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/9ba2cac1-fc48-46e1-a93d-551bedfd81fe)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/r721/jc73driver/Mobile%20Uploads/CB4AB0B2-A86B-4E5E-A36A-51B0F53F023C_zpst9twqyr7.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/87bae380-c344-469f-a9da-3b684d7b2bfd)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/r721/jc73driver/Mobile%20Uploads/EBF541E9-D6C4-4160-9FA3-6E1B1CF33A60_zpsixo8j6nb.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/129e1287-42cb-4ef4-ac88-6c3ac2a412f2)
-
So with the body work issues addressed I spent a lot of hours cleaning and prepping the cars to paint the underbody and cowl areas. The car cleaned up pretty well. I used 3M adhesive remover to remove the factory underbody coating. The 3M spray worked well but there is really no easy way to remove undercoating. Just takes time and elbow grease. I sprayed the underbody with lizard skin and rhino liner spray. I also reapplied seam sealer throughout the car where applicable. Thefirewall and cowl area was painted with Satin Black 2k Urethane paint from Eastwood. The Eastwood paint worked really well and was an excellent match to a factory style black.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/r721/jc73driver/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zpswiawmrwv.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/015f0dd3-2138-4cb0-a39b-05f592ed1ff4)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/r721/jc73driver/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zpsay5oupvs.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/2ffdd8a9-641d-44de-b6e8-0cad6c10361a)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/95D51BC0-7FCD-497D-8476-6A0E63CC69C0.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/a7c8721c-efd4-4d0a-962c-98abc2c538fe)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/r721/jc73driver/Mobile%20Uploads/.highres/image_zpshcioteke.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/a/5b81f12a-485f-412f-9d4c-cf13338a48f1/p/2b646b7a-0bd7-466f-875e-f14daf46be3f)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/r721/jc73driver/Mobile%20Uploads/.highres/image_zpsezx0ybvf.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/a/f895a7c5-b844-4cf4-bed6-bdff0c66019f/p/d80fb7aa-d5a1-4716-a712-46303c39d2bd)
-
I sprayed the inside with lizard skin sound and heat barrier. This stuff does a great job and is easy to use. Once that was done I used dynamat for further heat and sound dampening.
It was now time to start putting the car back to together, with the first step taking the body off the rotisserie. That took some patience and time because the car had to be supported firmly while removing the brackets on the rotisserie. When that was completed it was time to install the subframe, suspension and rear axle. After a few days worth of work I had the car back on all four wheels. I had the subframe and many of the other chassis and suspension parts powder coated.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/r721/jc73driver/Mobile%20Uploads/.highres/594C850D-3C9E-47D0-8A8D-E8108BB94CC9_zpsrym5jz1x.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/a/f895a7c5-b844-4cf4-bed6-bdff0c66019f/p/355217f2-2246-4c61-af1c-e6e6dd821ac8)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/r721/jc73driver/Mobile%20Uploads/.highres/F3827C0C-6059-4F18-9245-3A5591F413E9_zpspct5n044.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/a/5b81f12a-485f-412f-9d4c-cf13338a48f1/p/34177671-b5b9-4de1-bc88-662c1ba1185f)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/r721/jc73driver/Mobile%20Uploads/.highres/F3827C0C-6059-4F18-9245-3A5591F413E9_zpspct5n044.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/a/5b81f12a-485f-412f-9d4c-cf13338a48f1/p/34177671-b5b9-4de1-bc88-662c1ba1185f)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/r721/jc73driver/Mobile%20Uploads/.highres/5DC6810E-5D90-4D90-8C05-13E37E14FE39_zpssenlm4z9.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/a/5b81f12a-485f-412f-9d4c-cf13338a48f1/p/bbfa7c99-e909-4389-a84e-3bbb0ab27c49)
-
After the subframe and suspension was in place I installed the brakes , fuel lines and put the car back on all four wheels. I had to also make the cutout out in the transmission tunnel for the manual transmission swap. This was actually pretty easy because the tunnel hump fit naturally in its proper spot. As far as the brakes , I kept the stock brakes on the front using the Haxk Xp pads. I did add rear disk drakes replacing the original drums. I used the rear brake kit from Scarebird. It featured the drum in hat parking brake which iworks really well. The rear disk conversion has no clearance issues even with stock 14” rims. At this point I also installed the fuel lines and tank. I’m using the Holley Sniper with their recommended fuel pump and sending unit. It fit well into the stock tank. The pump is automatically regulated for the sniper so a return line was not required. I did make some minor modifications to the stock fuel lines . The only real change was routing a flexible fuel line from the passenger side frame rail to the motor.
Jim
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/4F2DA43C_C9F7_46A7_8B13_F4983B2313F6_FullSizeRender.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/5744ad23-20ed-4038-be7f-481d2eddc439)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/329AF6B6_5D41_4508_B55B_DD6A40D1EEA2.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/6c139bde-f432-49a2-8da3-a9039384e40e)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/IMG_5077.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/7ae5652a-de72-4022-9c19-1003744763c5)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/IMG_5086(1).jpg?width=590&height=370&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/b889598c-edb8-468c-b002-b9361c038a37)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/6951E938-0E8B-41FF-B437-F2F673A198A0.jpeg?width=590&height=370&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/a/f895a7c5-b844-4cf4-bed6-bdff0c66019f/p/1b0f0473-7484-49f0-bf4d-8b813be3f0d4)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/5F30547D-602D-498A-85BB-8C9E8ECEE49A.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/a/f895a7c5-b844-4cf4-bed6-bdff0c66019f/p/48a9a0a9-339f-499e-8707-6b217bb442e0)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/IMG_5100(1).jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/c374042d-bfdb-4bd3-bb33-3f940c06dff3)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/485BE32C-A92E-4420-8C18-8A505D12EDB6.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/d1852dff-01b5-4221-936f-91bfefc16f03)
-
After I got the car back on all fours, it went to the body shop for bodywork and primer. Additionally I had the door jambs an d inside panels painted with new color. I had decided to do a color swap and chose a Mazda color called “Soul Red”. It is an amazing looking color. I’m not really a red kinda person but this color really appealed to me. I also found out it was an expensive paint. The materials were about twice what a regular paint would be and it was also a 3 stage paint. Although the paint cost was higher I decided to go with it. I was very happy with the intial results!
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/A7CC55FE-6DA4-466B-A4A0-437810CB9E52.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/7370f26c-8bbd-46d2-974c-5a833597e1fd)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/F67F43A0-CFFD-4583-8381-79832BFFADA3.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/ac3b6057-f654-4cfb-88d4-cd9ec0fd1898)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/D6D3E54B-7A79-466E-A872-7BFE8E379241.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/e17a95d4-0eb7-4108-9c99-0e0c90e25b04)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/0EB59162_B95F_4F8D_849C_60D699EC3F96.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/d525cfa3-f0ae-47bb-a3d0-5810e6532e3b)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/068EEB4E_B639_4A1E_9AD3_0AFFE6292F3D.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/c66b87b1-faf8-4bb5-8e1b-384a3f8e117d)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/0EE658CF-15DF-439A-827B-430A0C8F0F87.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/4dc61f62-d568-40a1-b690-63625312e1bf)
-
When I got the car back from bodywork, it was time to install the drivetrain, doors, fenders, and panels. I also had to start doing the electrical system also. I used an electrical wiring kit from American Autowire. They make a very good quality and a very complete kit. It is very adaptable for restomods or stock configuration. It is a very effective means of installing a very good and reliable electrical system, I recommend it very much.
I used new hinges on the doors and I went with Ring Brothers hinges , and also used their hood hinges as well. They are top quality and are very strong . Also a bit pricey, the quality and fitment are worth it.
I nstalled the motor and transmission and that when pretty much straightforward. One oversight was the flywheel bolts. I used ARP bolts listed for Pontiac flywheel/ flex plates. The ARP bolts listed had larger head bolts which rubbed against the dampener springs on the clutch. After everything was installed I realized the issues and after research I found that different bolts need to be used. Butler performance recommend Jeep flywheel bolt and they worked much better.
When I decided on the transmission swap to the TKO600 5 speed I ordered it from American Powertrain . They were great to work with and everything was included in their kit. The swap we t very well and I was quite happy with it. One important part of the TKO600 swap is centering the bell housing. I had to use adjustable offset dowel pins . After a few adjustments I got the bell housing well within the specified limits.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/7D6DDBD1_66B7_4ABC_9C87_EE404135AFBF.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/3e145266-3284-4a05-a443-43ff694590b2)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/2DA90019_860E_4D10_9391_64281DCFE835.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/abb70ffc-d008-4a3a-a8fe-126b50fd0a3f)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/730B192A_46D7_4039_B7B4_3E170D1080A3.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/48354f45-4175-48fe-9ea7-11fbade5c0b0)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/BC99BF99_CB25_42C6_950A_DB51B3082BDE.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/d5ca9898-f2ad-47d2-ad90-6cbc2b175aca)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/A8E3446C_9DA3_4E11_AAD5_B6ABD5F3172A.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/f2d351c2-48f4-4715-ad95-c39c219ee712)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/3A4AB58E_B83C_4191_AE41_A3E53C555534.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/d44e6d75-ea5d-425d-8638-5f9af2cf2844)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/EAB2F644_9A77_4043_9591_C903B5B35AAF.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/ce62b293-64bd-4865-bdbe-7828bd3a176a)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/D621ADA9_9754_42E3_99C9_90E2F9A45C78_IMG_5468.HEIC?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/d3b721c9-dfb1-47c6-9472-f60e07868254)
-
With motor and transmission installation complete I started installing accessories, exhaust and radiator.
I used a power master alternator, a sanded a/c compressor, and stock power steering pump. I used a bracket system from CVF. These brackets worked great. I swapped cylinder heads on the engine during the rebuild with #11 heads from a 1970 Pontiac 400. Those heads had few bolt holes on the front so the stock brackets I had didn’t work ( post 1971 Pontiac heads had five mounting holes, whereas earlier heads had only four).
I used the Pypes transverse muffler system and that turned out good. When I started the motor it had a real great sound. I also chose Ram Air exhaust manifolds which I have used befor. They fit great and pose no clearance issues.
For cooling I went with a radiator and fan setup from Ron Davis radiators . Ron Davis makes a great fan and radiator setup and fits better than a stock setup in my opinion.
I finished setting up the clutch system. The TKO600 kit uses a hydraulic clutch engagement. The install went fairly well with no issues. The throw out bearing is hydraulically actuated as opposed to a mechanical setup in the stock form. The TKO600 can use either hydraulic or manual throw out bearings, but the kit came with the hydraulic bearing, so that is the route I chose.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/34888D33_053A_4A18_AF0F_D7AADDA51D34_IMG_5416.HEIC?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/e9eb9004-1398-442b-96df-9a93cc68032b)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/E3A83167_58F8_4EB7_9B57_89B336089CAA_IMG_5419.HEIC?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/75d05d75-0169-40b9-af37-de1a8efb23a8)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/27681DB5_A322_4B6D_88ED_ADB7AAD281E3_IMG_5417.HEIC?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/c38daffb-2b18-4942-bdda-879fbb12dc37)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/9ADDA908_3B8C_4A15_B5A0_D792EE2627E9_IMG_5411.HEIC?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/9de9bfc1-e728-4fd7-aeb1-9d7b6107fa1d)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/001_IMG_5681.HEIC?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/4b42ae9d-7eca-43ab-b2b7-778e682ed49c)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/001_IMG_5683.HEIC?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/bcf6217a-4b98-4f4f-9fa7-267b167327b3)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/001_IMG_5686.HEIC?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/d7bfa5e9-cd5c-4031-93ff-4d8f03493cd9)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/001_IMG_5682.HEIC?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/4ad1fa35-5af4-4847-84e6-36dc69d2becf)
-
With motor and accessories installed I began putting the fenders and hood back on. I temporarily installed new gauges. I chose to use Dakota Digital HDX gauges and used a temporary mounting setup just to check to made sure that worked prior to initial start up. The fenders and hood installed well but like any other body panels it takes time to get them right. I wanted to ensure all the gaps were within factory spec and were straight. With a car that is almost 50 years old it will never be exact perfect, in fact even factory new it was never perfect. So the goal was to get it as best as it could be. With that in mind, the results came out pretty decent. Like anything it takes time and patience, but is not a difficult task to do. It just takes the effort to make it as good as it can be.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/84FD2723_7573_4B68_B101_C1C3AD491F3F.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/6c9359a7-92d0-4bff-babc-0545cd2cbd37)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/BB7F2225_FE09_463C_87D2_B07631E7A0D1.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/879f5d94-9c21-47ff-a996-6403ccd0397e)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/E32C133A_4998_46F7_82FB_FE51514E2C34.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/b45208cc-af38-4c3a-a6fb-4445b67e7489)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/E53FCF44_92FF_4760_B51C_7087EA5BE58F.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/bc728fc3-0e3b-4c0e-b14c-42a3b87a5b27)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/1054BF43_047B_4CD8_8ABF_6280E286DF6B.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/f8557caf-7680-4e72-a03b-89f0df08cc05)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/836E27FB_1FD9_4E86_A1EA_DD6FA236B115.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/98491534-089f-430d-8026-95d8ed356803)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/EE2517F7_80DB_4B52_8655_E211F7947279.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/026a8d10-eb92-423b-b0ca-2d62d2d2a128)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/79C4B85F_FE59_4036_A381_9531B70544E6.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/5fe27851-c2ea-4ab8-b3b6-0c5aee4514e9)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/08505DBD_C221_427B_B2FE_BFB94109A86C.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/31455fcb-6a3a-4207-ac7e-18e846af3315)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/1BDE14BE_122A_4890_B048_7244149C4E0D.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/487541e0-70a5-4a43-920e-69cc45ab0267)
-
At the beginning of the year the car was back in paint jail. The Endura nose/ bumper and lower valence was installed and with some work and effort we got the fit just right. Since it’s return to paint jail I started working onsome of the interior and exterior trim pieces. I took the original seats and removed the foam and upholstery. Also I took all the metal trim and had it polished and re chromed . I also picked up a great set of original honeycomb 15x7” rims. I will probably get the car back in about two weeks or so. Once it come back from paint jail I will have the interior to install and exterior trim. Still with a bit of work to do I can say it will be in the final phase of restoration. I really look forward to that because it gets one step closer to being back on the road again!
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/1020D4CF-E8B4-4DBC-B9CC-878EFE3A075C.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/a/f895a7c5-b844-4cf4-bed6-bdff0c66019f/p/dfa55e1a-b7a3-4170-bc54-0ca4f0cec2a5)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/F332CE75-69DA-4D82-BFF0-942F63EEB6C4.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/a/f895a7c5-b844-4cf4-bed6-bdff0c66019f/p/14aefbf2-07c6-4b33-af41-9b63085a7630)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/FE231BF7-8147-4432-AA31-70DC300CB154.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/a/f895a7c5-b844-4cf4-bed6-bdff0c66019f/p/4270e637-593b-4458-ba1f-79e891e2a9bd)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/001(25).HEIC?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/c983085e-d04b-4665-9490-cea9ffda099c)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/001(30).HEIC?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/72cc0ae8-9950-4d82-a49c-b7829b3b798a)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/001(1).jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/jc73driver/p/c7372a0a-eabf-418a-ac5a-36930f99e0b2)
-
Before sending the car back to paint jail, I was able to get the car running under its own power. I drove it around my shop area making sure it went forward, backwards, left &right and stopped. I checked all the other areas , no leaks, no issues and everything worked as it should. I took my time checking things over and there were a few minor issues I addressed, but overall everything turned out to be in good order.
Jim
-
Fantastic, cant wait to see it!
btw, is that a GM motorhome at the storage lot? Thats a classic in itself.
-
re-subscribed
Love this red colour!!
-
Fantastic, cant wait to see it!
btw, is that a GM motorhome at the storage lot? Thats a classic in itself.
I believe it is a GM motor home. Next time I’m out there I will check on it
Jim
-
Fantastic, cant wait to see it!
btw, is that a GM motorhome at the storage lot? Thats a classic in itself.
I believe it is a GM motor home. Next time I’m out there I will check on it
Jim
Is it The EM-50 urban assault vehicle?//
-
Is it The EM-50 urban assault vehicle?//
That would make a great resto project, and adding all the rocket launchers and flamethrowers!
-
Jim,
I love all the high end upgrades, everything looks great. Doing away with the OEM AC unit sure opens up the engine compartment and give you a lot more room to work with.
-
I don’t miss the OEM unit very much. It certainly opens up the engine area which I like.
Jim
-
Today I finished re upholstering the rear upper seat cushion. When I removed the rear seat a while back, I found out the rear seats do not use molded foam to the seats like some of the later models. The rear seats use the older style seat padding. That also means it’s a different method of installation.
I used the seat upholstery kit from PUI . Originally I wanted to use a kit from Legendary Interiors but at the time their kits were on an 8 month backlog. The PUI upholstery kit is pretty good quality in my opinion.
For the 72 the seat padding uses burlap, cotton batting , listing cord and muslin. The process is pretty straightforward and works well. It does take a little more time to do , but works out good.
With the seats removed I began to remove the old upholstery. With a pair of diagonal pliers I removed all the hog rings and took off the old upholstery. This can be a little messy and dirty, however with a little attention to detail the old covers come off pretty easy. I took pictures of the original installation and made some notes before I removed it. This was merely meant to have some guidelines for the re install.
Once the frame is bare, it has to be cleaned up . I had mine media blasted and then powder coated. Another way is to simply clean the frame and use a rust oleum or other similar type spray paint.
With clean seat frames , the next step is to lay down the burlap. I had an installation kit that included all the needed items. The burlap simply lays over the frame and is hog ringed in place . I had to measure the pattern along the top edge and make a pattern to cut out a strip from the burlap. I had the piece made with about a 1 1/2” overlap. The overlap was done in order installing the listing wire along the edges. The listing wire basically provides an edge to use the hog rings to secure to the frame.
Once the burlap was in place, i laid a strip of jute strip along the edges. This prevents premature wear of the upholstery around the edges.
The cotton batting was laid over the seat frame and I ensured I left enough on the sides to keep the sides with some padding. This cotton material works pretty well but if can be messy. With some care a cotton mess can be minimized.
Muslin material is the laid on top and then hog ringed to the seat frame . It works best to have about a 4” overlap to the back of the frame. I hog ringed the top edge starting from the center and working outward. I did the bottom edge next starting from the center and working outward. When attaching the muslin cloth it is important to make sure you have even consistently without any lumping of the cotton. The one good thing is that if you do make some mistakes you can easily correct it by cutting the hog rings and re doing your work. The key thing is to have consistent padding thickness with no big lumpy area. The total thickness of the cotton is about 3-4 inches. It does compress easily and typically 3-4 layers are needed.
The next step I took was to apply the actual seat cover. I used the black vinyl deluxe seat covers. Before I started to put it on , I sprayed the muslin with a silicon spray ( WD40 brand silicone spray.). Using silicone spray allows the upholstery to slide on the seat padding without bunching up the cotton. It takes a bit of sweat to get the covers over the frame , but patience is the key. Another key note is to make sure the upholstery cover is centered. The way I did it, was keep working around the cover and stretching it into place, to the point where you can hog ring it to the frame.
I did the top first then bottom and sides. Again, the key is patience and taking your time. If you do make a mistake then you can always remove the hog rings and re do it.
Legendary and PUI both have install videos that offer some great info and guidance. For this seat frame the Legendary video for the 69 charger rear seat video was very similar to this installation.
I was pretty happy with end result. The rear seat back looked every bit as good as I could expect. Overall I believe I spent about 3- 4 hours on this seat back. Once I got the hang of it , things started making sense to me and the installation was pretty easy.
Jim
Here is the bare frame, after media blasting and powder coat
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/37B3B76E-1CA9-4F1F-9A49-248FCBF5B628.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/37B3B76E-1CA9-4F1F-9A49-248FCBF5B628.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
Here is the strip of burlap I attached a long the top frame
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/E3ED3432-8657-4378-B916-C4152110FC70.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/E3ED3432-8657-4378-B916-C4152110FC70.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
Here is the burlap attached to the frame.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/2A9CCF6C-FB42-487D-9C77-D3269068009B.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/2A9CCF6C-FB42-487D-9C77-D3269068009B.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
Along the bottom edge I folded over the burlap and used contact cement spray to the frame and burlap. This made a nice edge to the bottom and I then installed some hog rings.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/EDB0D44B-8C44-4147-8416-631303E22393.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/EDB0D44B-8C44-4147-8416-631303E22393.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
This was the contact cement I used recommended by the local upholstery shop. Works great!
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/FCC4DF59-E13B-4620-8561-50EA321C63E5.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/FCC4DF59-E13B-4620-8561-50EA321C63E5.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
I applied the jute strip along side the perimeter of the frame. This prevents premature wear along the edges of the seat cover
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/50E03CDE-A789-4CFB-8A1F-5DC319BD70A9.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/50E03CDE-A789-4CFB-8A1F-5DC319BD70A9.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/63F2915D-7314-4015-87B5-F29A1CD2D4E7.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/63F2915D-7314-4015-87B5-F29A1CD2D4E7.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
I laid out 4 layers of cotton batting over the top and sides leaving some overlap. It can be trimmed down as needed with scissors air by carefully tearing it off.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/B6CD048A-3DEE-4F5B-8C5E-27DFD7A485F2.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/B6CD048A-3DEE-4F5B-8C5E-27DFD7A485F2.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/F69B329A-B79B-4A9B-A758-B2BEE2E89C1C.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/F69B329A-B79B-4A9B-A758-B2BEE2E89C1C.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
I laid the muslin cloth over the cotton and trimmed it to shape with about a3-4” overlap. This can be trimmed as you go so having a little bit of excess is okay.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/46E00ADE-C6E7-4238-A9C4-0F72AD4367CC.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/46E00ADE-C6E7-4238-A9C4-0F72AD4367CC.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/1CC80472-0CBA-4C5E-91AE-1532DD67AB12.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/1CC80472-0CBA-4C5E-91AE-1532DD67AB12.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/A40E8F6E-82AB-471A-BE42-E1E575F5B51C.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/A40E8F6E-82AB-471A-BE42-E1E575F5B51C.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/5EB8B8B6-E265-42D8-8BE6-466D3D84AD3F.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/5EB8B8B6-E265-42D8-8BE6-466D3D84AD3F.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/86A0C099-FDA7-4135-A040-1A82DFE5055B.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/86A0C099-FDA7-4135-A040-1A82DFE5055B.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/A40E8F6E-82AB-471A-BE42-E1E575F5B51C.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/A40E8F6E-82AB-471A-BE42-E1E575F5B51C.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/DDE0BF2F-FA59-47EE-A284-E5FFF34C4178.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/DDE0BF2F-FA59-47EE-A284-E5FFF34C4178.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/EEB89EAD-D888-4F1C-A93E-01AC4CFB5B0E.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/EEB89EAD-D888-4F1C-A93E-01AC4CFB5B0E.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
I placed and centered the seat cover and began working it around the sides to getting it positioned on the frame. Spraying silicon spray on the muslin does make it a bit easier process. It does take some grunting to stretch the cover over the frame. Shifting around the frame will keep it centered. Also compressing down on the springs really helps also.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/4C9DCAF4-6A16-449B-A912-9BA1D13EC48B.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/4C9DCAF4-6A16-449B-A912-9BA1D13EC48B.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/842FA483-5786-4D5C-B761-36CA877C3193.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/842FA483-5786-4D5C-B761-36CA877C3193.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/8ABBAE18-094A-4B42-A3FE-77E714C1A775.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/8ABBAE18-094A-4B42-A3FE-77E714C1A775.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
It takes a little bit of work, but patience pays off. The end results:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/AB8BF11A-97E3-48E0-BBD3-CEA5D553EABE.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/AB8BF11A-97E3-48E0-BBD3-CEA5D553EABE.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/EDF14C90-B136-43D2-9087-E953C30E8B8E.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/EDF14C90-B136-43D2-9087-E953C30E8B8E.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/AB8BF11A-97E3-48E0-BBD3-CEA5D553EABE.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/AB8BF11A-97E3-48E0-BBD3-CEA5D553EABE.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
-
Incredible job on the rear seat upholstery, the end result is excellent. Nice write up and photos, I will save this for future reference. I like the idea of powder coating the metal seat frame to prevent rusting. All the ones I have seen were just bare metal and prone to rust.
-
Great job and great write up! One step closer to having our old forum of info back.
-
Very nice! Can't wait to see the finished product!
-
Yesterday I got a preview of my 72 with color on it. The paint jail time took longer than I had expected,but I wasn’t too tore up about it. I was able to get a lot of other projects stuff done. I did finish the seats and I have been working on a lot of the other stuff with regards to interior and exterior trim and components.
So the color is Mazda color called “Soul Red”. It is a three stage paint application sorta similar to a “Candy” color paint. However is a combination of several metallic tints. I am not a paint knowledgeable person, but it is a pretty unique paint. I was really impressed with the color, it does stand out well. Just going to have to take really good care not to scratch or scuff it in the last phase of restoration.
Jim
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/639C95C5-02EE-481A-866F-B988476152C6.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/639C95C5-02EE-481A-866F-B988476152C6.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/DF588D77-B56C-4059-A6A0-E56048A6D1BF.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/DF588D77-B56C-4059-A6A0-E56048A6D1BF.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/97894919-86FF-466B-9D0D-5AA4E304BE05.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/97894919-86FF-466B-9D0D-5AA4E304BE05.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/49B1DC2F-C612-4808-BB5A-5E22B6971D77.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/49B1DC2F-C612-4808-BB5A-5E22B6971D77.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/4FB7A9F5-7F7E-4BFA-9109-2FCB89586BD9.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/4FB7A9F5-7F7E-4BFA-9109-2FCB89586BD9.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/76FF887A-55B7-4D5E-B77D-08E799F0FA30.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/76FF887A-55B7-4D5E-B77D-08E799F0FA30.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/94EA3C3E-5A3A-4842-A9DD-5FE84048902F.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/94EA3C3E-5A3A-4842-A9DD-5FE84048902F.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/825357C6-55D0-4089-B67E-F042ED2F2B6A.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/825357C6-55D0-4089-B67E-F042ED2F2B6A.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
-
2 thumbs up, if I had more hands I would give you more!
-
I really like the color and glad to see you didn't go with a traditional firebird reds.
-
The paint looks fantastic, l love the color. I have four red motorcycles, two kind of close in color, so I might be prejudiced.
Can’t wait to see this car finished!
-
Thanks for the replies, I actually get to see it person tomorrow morning. Lately I have been very busy with work.
Jim
-
The color is killer
Great job by the shop
Congratulations on being sprung from paint jail
-
Nice! Love the Color
-
Holy ****....do I ever love it.
It gets me excited to see what mine will kinda look like!!!
right on!!!!
-
Wow Jim, paint jail was worth it for that finish, it really accentuates the contours of the car. Cant wait to see more!
-
A few weeks back I reconditioned the grills. I had the trim pieces re chromed and I had to give the grills a good cleaning. Sometime in the past the grills were spray bombed black. I tried a several was to strip the old paint. I really was limited on solvents to remove the old paint. I didn’t want to ruin the grills.
A technique I used worked out really great. I used my bead blaster set on low pressure (45-50 psi.) this removed all the old paint down to the bare plastic. Using glass bead media on low pressure brought the plastic grill buckets back like original condition. I then sanded them with 600 grit then 800 as well. The plastic was as smooth, with a natural surface.
I painted the buckets with argent silver spray paint. I used Duplicolor silver caliper paint which is an excellent match to the factory argent silver.
I had the trim pieces that surround the grill buckets re chromed. They mounted up and fitted very easy. I got a new “PONTIAC” emblem as well.
I am really happy how they turned out. Definitely an improved look.
Jim
BEFORE
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/890E0F10-82D5-43E0-9F33-E1345556E55A.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/890E0F10-82D5-43E0-9F33-E1345556E55A.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/A8567FED-5706-4BCC-BBF1-91A03008FE6E.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/A8567FED-5706-4BCC-BBF1-91A03008FE6E.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
AFTER
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/836E19E7-B2AC-453F-B0F2-4FEB90C9DE18.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/836E19E7-B2AC-453F-B0F2-4FEB90C9DE18.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/F3F2D495-35AF-4A33-83C5-2305335E19A2.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/F3F2D495-35AF-4A33-83C5-2305335E19A2.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
-
Wow! Thoae turned out great! Who did the rechrome?
-
Excellent work. Is the outer chrome ring removable on those grilles?
-
They look perfect!
-
Thanks for the replies.
The chrome trim is removable, it is held down with square shaped speed nuts. I bought the retainers from a local Ace Hardware store. I had the trim rechromed from a local place here in Vegas.
Jim
-
Nice build recap and excellent work Jim.
-
Thanks for the replies.
The chrome trim is removable, it is held down with square shaped speed nuts. I bought the retainers from a local Ace Hardware store. I had the trim rechromed from a local place here in Vegas.
Jim
Which local place in Vegas Jim ?
I am looking for a Chrome shop in Vegas
-
Thanks for the replies.
The chrome trim is removable, it is held down with square shaped speed nuts. I bought the retainers from a local Ace Hardware store. I had the trim rechromed from a local place here in Vegas.
Jim
Which local place in Vegas Jim ?
I am looking for a Chrome shop in Vegas
I used Shine shop in Henderson.
676 Middlegate rd
Henderson Nevada 89011
702-566-1299
Jim
-
I think they are who I contacted about doing my 57's Bumpers, I am gonna need to mortgage my house to get all the chrome on that thing done lol.
The fresh chrome looks amazing though!
-
A few weeks back I picked up the car from the paint shop and was real happy to get it back in my shop. I was very impressed with the paint job. Turned out fantastic. I have to give a ton of credit to my painter . The Mazda Color is a lot harder to spray than was originally anticipated. If you search different videos on how to apply it you can see what a challenge it can be.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/2E2F30C1-3136-4BA6-9110-83929B10C99E.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/2E2F30C1-3136-4BA6-9110-83929B10C99E.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/6EC31344-690C-40C0-B849-C45AB106FEC0.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/6EC31344-690C-40C0-B849-C45AB106FEC0.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/90A5ECA1-3879-4B47-B1EB-212B8ED79D11.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/90A5ECA1-3879-4B47-B1EB-212B8ED79D11.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/8247B746-300A-4C90-BADA-7F2A91D87B0E.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/8247B746-300A-4C90-BADA-7F2A91D87B0E.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/0161ED61-C0CE-4BD9-99BF-FA348069C9A4.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/0161ED61-C0CE-4BD9-99BF-FA348069C9A4.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/414F4EAA-4803-4C2C-AB99-C0F01F542BB5.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/414F4EAA-4803-4C2C-AB99-C0F01F542BB5.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
-
One of the things I was really impressed with was the body work and fitment of the Endura bumper. As most already know they look great, but can be a real pain when it comes to fitment and refinishing. This one fit probably better than it ever had in the past. Again my painter did a great job on the body work and paint.
I installed the grills that I restored and they fit pretty good. I used the factory measurements for the PONTIAC emblem and 400 emblem. I also installed the headlights, I used LED headlamps in place of the stock bulbs. They pretty much fit like the stock headlamps but obviously are brighter. .
I also installed the fender emblems and the grills on the hood scoops.
Jim
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/A7C022F0-748B-4D47-B36D-42491CD69035.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/A7C022F0-748B-4D47-B36D-42491CD69035.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/AEA81038-C857-47B8-AA21-90F84FE28D25.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/AEA81038-C857-47B8-AA21-90F84FE28D25.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/9E02C788-8006-4C9C-A95B-A46D6E5738A8.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/9E02C788-8006-4C9C-A95B-A46D6E5738A8.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/D3A61AFE-5DA4-4A12-BCF5-731BF74490B9.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/D3A61AFE-5DA4-4A12-BCF5-731BF74490B9.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/E67D2672-158C-43CF-8D51-160FB2A866F1.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/E67D2672-158C-43CF-8D51-160FB2A866F1.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/AD484188-F2A8-489D-BA1C-CE9532E25AB4.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/AD484188-F2A8-489D-BA1C-CE9532E25AB4.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/BF54CF66-0B26-4959-9834-2668F360E740.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/BF54CF66-0B26-4959-9834-2668F360E740.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/FDA85DAF-B147-4E51-A686-FFD7C972481E.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/FDA85DAF-B147-4E51-A686-FFD7C972481E.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/22B98E1F-119D-4209-8E22-9FBB19E83F4E.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/22B98E1F-119D-4209-8E22-9FBB19E83F4E.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
-
Today I finished up installing the tail panel, spoilers and tail light housings. They install easy enough but it did take some time getting them adjusted to make a decent fit. To be honest , with a car that is a hairs breath away from 50 years old, I was happy with how it turned out. I tested out the lights and they all worked as they should. Tomorrow I am going to reassemble the bumper and install it.
Jim
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/4BC3A35E-2A16-4CD9-89A1-EE0B6B38FBF6.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/4BC3A35E-2A16-4CD9-89A1-EE0B6B38FBF6.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/0DA73376-11FF-4D35-9929-636C1FE4A036.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/0DA73376-11FF-4D35-9929-636C1FE4A036.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/158449D6-86A5-4EBD-9B81-B7FFBDF0357C.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/158449D6-86A5-4EBD-9B81-B7FFBDF0357C.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/06059238-4543-496D-98C9-0C227BA9B86E.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/06059238-4543-496D-98C9-0C227BA9B86E.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/FE7ED560-8223-40B8-AEF1-6702DB7D47B8.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/FE7ED560-8223-40B8-AEF1-6702DB7D47B8.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/EF61AD74-7F37-40A8-8114-95F0F7D2D325.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/EF61AD74-7F37-40A8-8114-95F0F7D2D325.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
-
Jim,
The body and paint is spectacular, just beautiful. Really every aspect of this car looks great. You certainly raise the bar for everyone else.
This point in the build must be lots of fun, assembling nice clean shiny parts.
Enjoy!
-
Very nice work and that paint job is a killer.
-
Thanks for the replies!
I got the rear bumper installed today. This bumper had “Bumper Guards” installed from the factory. Fortunately the rubber trim on them was restorable. The bumper mounted and fit really well. As a preventative measure, I placed bubble wrap type padding around the edges so I would not scratch the paint. Originally my idea was to use masking tape around the edges, honestly didn’t really have much confidence with the tape and I didn’t want to take a risk. This method worked out really well. I was installing the bumper myself so I took my time was careful in the process.
Jim
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/1DA89A9D-7F00-4F73-9CB7-6C46B69C505A.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/1DA89A9D-7F00-4F73-9CB7-6C46B69C505A.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/A95EDB64-EC93-4E65-B30F-584E6DD46748.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/A95EDB64-EC93-4E65-B30F-584E6DD46748.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/380378D1-2B8D-44A8-856F-D09E9C0B1917.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/380378D1-2B8D-44A8-856F-D09E9C0B1917.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/847D7889-2A85-4C33-9AFC-BD869F946EF2.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/847D7889-2A85-4C33-9AFC-BD869F946EF2.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/001(14).MOV?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/001(14).MOV?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/001(6).MOV?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/001(6).MOV?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/001(7).MOV?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/001(7).MOV?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/001(9).MOV?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/001(9).MOV?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/001(8).MOV?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/001(8).MOV?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/001(13).MOV?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/001(13).MOV?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
-
I also mounted the lock cylinder today as well. Before installed them I sanded smooth the opening where the lock cylinder gets mounted. Basically to remove the paint edge build up around the openings edges. A few years ago I found out how paint can chip around the opening when you install the lock cylinder. Small preventative measures really are worth the extra time to prevent chips and scratched during the re assembly process.
I also installed the window sills in the door. They went in real easy and again I was careful installing them as not to chip or scratch the paint.
Jim
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/001(4).MOV?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/001(4).MOV?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/001(5).MOV?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/001(5).MOV?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/001(2).MOV?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/001(2).MOV?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/001(3).MOV?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/001(3).MOV?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
-
I cant add anything else about great your car looks. Nice to be putting trim on. At this rate I think you will have your 77 finished before I get my motor back!
-
At some point or another I went over the paperwork from PHS on this car. This was after I started restoring this one . I was total king about the bumper guards to another Firebird guy. I was told that wasn’t the correct bumper for the car. I was told they were a 73 year only option. Later, that is when I went through the paperwork and sure enough it was an option on this car. I also found it in the assembly manual also.
I also realized this was a kinda different car as well. Originally, it was an Espirit , Revere Silver, black vinyl top, and blue deluxe interior. It did have the 400 2 barrel and dual exhaust. Also had the turbo400 trans with a 3.08 posi rear. There were not very many Espirt Firebirds with that option, basically more of a formula car.
When I bought it it had a formula hood and honey comb rims, obviously they were added on at a later point in life. At one point someone added the rear spoiler also. Basically, this one will be a formula clone you could say.
Today I started with the door weatherstrip and side view mirrors. I’m going to start doing the door internals.
The window alignment will be a pain but I’m going to use a set of alignment blocks and see how that works out. I bought a set of tinkled window from All City glass. The glass looks pretty good and won’t to to have film tint put on.
I also have a set of 17” Honeycomb rims I got from Year One. I really like the way they look on the early Firebirds.
It’s pretty hot this time of year in Vegas so that is really testing my stamina on progress but I really am enjoying the work on this one so far.
Jim
-
I cant add anything else about great your car looks. Nice to be putting trim on. At this rate I think you will have your 77 finished before I get my motor back!
Thanks! I’m sure you will be quite happy to get your motor back soon! Always like seeing the progress on your Trans Am!
Jim
-
I complain about the heat (and humidity) in MD and not feeling like doing any work. And it has only been in the high 90's. I imagine thats your cool temp this time of year, But you have a dry heat! LOL
Years ago I knew a guy that had lived in Phoenix. When talking about the heat we would say, 'yeah its hot there but you dont have humidity'. His reply was 'yea, its a dry heat but 120 is 120. Go stick your head in the oven for a minute and tell me if its dry or not'.
-
Ive been making progress and so far so good. I put the new tires and rims on. I went with 17” Honeycombs from Year One. I chose a set of Nitto 245/50/17’s tires. I’m pretty happy with the look. I have a set of 15” Honeycomb rims but decided to use them on my 71 Firebird. I also installed the lower valance panel as well as the turn lamps. I started installing the door internals and power window motors.
One thing I am looking forward to is using the window gauge blocks I got awhile back. I am hoping they work to shorten the window alignment process. I also got a set of tinted window from All City glass.
The new motors and regulators worked pretty well I cleaned the originals and re lubricated them.
Hopefully all will continue to go well, I am looking forward to installing the interior. After the window I am going to install the bow type headliner. Hopefully this will go well too.
Jim
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/4309C705-D2AA-4D8C-A49E-197DF0C13328.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/4309C705-D2AA-4D8C-A49E-197DF0C13328.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/B2A65363-860D-4832-A25E-D7980B89670C.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/B2A65363-860D-4832-A25E-D7980B89670C.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/94E69012-95CE-4669-A1D5-575D7540C60D.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/94E69012-95CE-4669-A1D5-575D7540C60D.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/FD50FB02-76F4-47A7-BBF1-84DFBCEF2A83.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/FD50FB02-76F4-47A7-BBF1-84DFBCEF2A83.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/8D59CA5F-83C8-4936-98F0-F00D6C14B7FF.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/8D59CA5F-83C8-4936-98F0-F00D6C14B7FF.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/103C44BA-9D82-49AA-8DCC-4D5314E7010F.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/103C44BA-9D82-49AA-8DCC-4D5314E7010F.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/5A246CF8-F81A-4B9A-9C0C-C29482BB6330.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/5A246CF8-F81A-4B9A-9C0C-C29482BB6330.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/D680F0D2-ECE8-4915-AD65-D339B2C46756.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/D680F0D2-ECE8-4915-AD65-D339B2C46756.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
-
Wow. Look's like it should be parked inside of the LVCC in late October.
-
Thanks! Hopefully the interior will go well too!
Jim
-
Over the last few weeks I’ve managed to get most of the remaining exterior trim items installed including the side glass and exhaust tips.
I used tinted glass windows from AutoCity Glass. I was very happy with the fitment and quality of the glass. It fits very well and I had no issues whatsoever. The glass is tinted a light gray which I really like. It isn’t film tint but tinted when it’s is manufactured. AutoCity is a good company to deal with. The quality is excellent and customer service is excellent as well. They have pretty decent prices and shipping is quick and reasonable.
I was able to re use the original hardware for the glass. I did clean it up and re lubricate the rollers. One product I found that works great is “SilGlide” . It is a lubricant sold at Napa. It works very well for the rollers and tracks. I installed the inner window tracks and guides. Another tip, especially if your glass is tinted with film is to tape off the upper inner door edge. This offers some protection from unwanted scratches when installing the door glass. I bought a nut roller tool to install the hardware on the glass . I got it from NPD and it worked very good . I also used LocTite to ensure nothing came loose.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/E25F4E54-88A4-4766-8C89-8374FD527228.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/E25F4E54-88A4-4766-8C89-8374FD527228.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/62CC3F46-EEA3-48DF-BEAE-7FFD1D44D4E1.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/62CC3F46-EEA3-48DF-BEAE-7FFD1D44D4E1.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/79B18312-CE39-4348-988F-251C32EB7EAB.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/79B18312-CE39-4348-988F-251C32EB7EAB.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/C10AF229-E370-40D4-B295-D52BF6D806F5.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/C10AF229-E370-40D4-B295-D52BF6D806F5.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/7801AE2F-18A1-4229-92F3-017D7CF9FCB1.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/7801AE2F-18A1-4229-92F3-017D7CF9FCB1.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
Installing the door glass is pretty easy. The technique is to insert the glass at an angle lining up the rollers into the tracks. Once the rollers are lined into the tracks the glass goes in pretty easy. I recommend taking your time and ensuring the rollers stay in the tracks . You do have to pay attention to the hardware mounted on the window itself. In can snag the outer door rubber sweep. Just make sure it doesn’t tear or damage the outer sweep. I used a popsicle stick to move it clear enough not to get caught up. Once the window is in the tracks you simply bolt it to the horizontal track and next step is to align the windows.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/13AA22EA-1A1F-4699-80E9-3541606EEF98.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/13AA22EA-1A1F-4699-80E9-3541606EEF98.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/20075707-EB33-4E1B-ADD7-9393D29C9413.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/20075707-EB33-4E1B-ADD7-9393D29C9413.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/348ED976-280E-479F-A2EC-C18D6636DE18.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/348ED976-280E-479F-A2EC-C18D6636DE18.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/C21B1D54-58A3-4D1D-8D49-DCF674D0B528.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/C21B1D54-58A3-4D1D-8D49-DCF674D0B528.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/1B1B4387-8131-409E-9551-E4EB48A17A4A.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/1B1B4387-8131-409E-9551-E4EB48A17A4A.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
I have power windows, so before installing the glass I had to ensure the motors worked properly. I installed new motors and they worked very well. I modified the switch and power supply to the motors by incorporating relay switches to the motors. The relays actually serve as a secondary switch to provide direct battery power to the motors. The relays close and open based on the the power window switches and simply take the current load and voltage loss off the switch. This gives improved power to the motors and the windows go up and down a bit quicker with a bit more strength.
Several months back, Gene73, made up a file to have the unobtainable window alignment blocks 3D printed. I had a set made and they work great. Gene it’s now the Patron Saint of window alignment! These alignment blocks made the window alignment so much easier!! The window alignment really only took me about 15-20 minutes. Truthfully, only a few minor adjustments were needed. Window alignment can be brutal and painful.
One thing I would suggest, remove the side view mirrors before usin the alignment blocks. The vertical guide block may interfere with the side mirror. This happened to me, put a scratch on the side view mirror. Fortunately, I was able to send it to my painted and he can correct that.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/AD00F966-15A0-448C-90D4-8117CF0143B9.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/AD00F966-15A0-448C-90D4-8117CF0143B9.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/E797BFA2-741E-420D-84E7-D0DFE4B0A39E.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/E797BFA2-741E-420D-84E7-D0DFE4B0A39E.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/E232E3A5-0A32-41A4-AEB2-1B6E8C5F7438.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/E232E3A5-0A32-41A4-AEB2-1B6E8C5F7438.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/7CF46184-C8A1-412F-8794-3016FCFE6BFA.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/7CF46184-C8A1-412F-8794-3016FCFE6BFA.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/BA5714EF-DB00-4514-85F1-58C9CDF7D608.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/BA5714EF-DB00-4514-85F1-58C9CDF7D608.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
A very good reference to use is from the Fisher Body Manual, specifically it gives guidance on making any alignment adjustments.
Once I was done, I installed the roof rail weatherstrip. Initially, I used the Soft Seal brand which I really didn’t like. It is a lot more firm than stock weather strip and I didn’t really care for it. The other Soft Seal weather strip I used did work well in other areas but not on the roof rail. I ended up buying a latex rubber set from the Parts Place. The latex roof rail seals worked much better, similar to stock weatherstrip. They were also more expensive but i was really happy with the decision to use them. Once the weather strip was installed I only had to make some very minor adjustments to obtain an excellent fit.
An important note to keep in mind close the door SLOWLY! Make sure the glass doesn’t catch on any trim. Any kind of interference can shatter the window.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/F34FEC59-23B5-4B67-88A5-257C89642BE5.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/F34FEC59-23B5-4B67-88A5-257C89642BE5.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/12E85EFB-6953-46DD-A38B-859E808138CE.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/12E85EFB-6953-46DD-A38B-859E808138CE.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
This car has the chrome trim along the doors. I used new plastic retainers and the door trim installed quite well. I added the other trim pieces on the hood and front fenders. I used a small smear of Sil Glide on the edges off the fenders and hood. They slide on snug and firm. Using the Sil Glide kept the metal trim from scratching the paint.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/E3D67E80-26D7-470A-9C4B-3168AB3E59AD.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/E3D67E80-26D7-470A-9C4B-3168AB3E59AD.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/204AE586-39DF-44A1-92DD-48676D87BA32.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/204AE586-39DF-44A1-92DD-48676D87BA32.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
Lastly, I attached the exhaust tips. This was pretty quick and easy job. They fit just as good as to be expected.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/BA4E4159-A1CC-488C-B538-233E8B1494DC.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/BA4E4159-A1CC-488C-B538-233E8B1494DC.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/FA3AA085-78D8-4BFC-A419-6E61AADBD7CB.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/FA3AA085-78D8-4BFC-A419-6E61AADBD7CB.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
With exception of front and rear glass, the outside is pretty much done. So now I start working on interior stuff. I am getting ready to install the headliner which is a bow type headliner. I’m sure this will be a little challenging because it requires more installation time than a shell type headliner. I am real happy with the progress so far and I am looking forward to working on the interior. Getting really close to being back on the road for the first time since 1996!
Jim
-
Very good progress and nice job aligning the glass.
-
I'm curious about the bumper guards. I have the same problem with mine on the 73 I'm doing.
Did you find a source for the rubber insert strips?
Darryl
-
Another thing I'm doing is glass installation. Is there a source around to purchase a set of window alignment blocks for
a 73 Transam?
Thanks again,
Darryl
-
One thing I would suggest, remove the side view mirrors before using the alignment blocks. The vertical guide block may interfere with the side mirror. This happened to me, put a scratch on the side view mirror. Fortunately, I was able to send it to my painted and he can correct that.
Excellent write-up and photos Jim! Although I believe the service manual says to mount the vertical (red) gauge block inboard. Sounds like you had yours pointing outboard which is why there was interference with the side mirror. The resulting window alignment is probably going to be same either way you mount the block but pointing away from the mirrors is the important part. Sorry to hear you damaged your paint. BTW, your car is sporting my new favorite color on a second gen. 8-)
-
Another thing I'm doing is glass installation. Is there a source around to purchase a set of window alignment blocks for
a 73 Transam?
Thanks again,
Darryl
Darryl, you can download the files from Thingiverse (https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:4576213 (https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:4576213)) and either print yourself, or find a friend with a 3D printer, or use an online service.
Original thread is gone but this one has some of the information - http://transamcountry.com/community/index.php?topic=83504.0 (http://transamcountry.com/community/index.php?topic=83504.msg1641#msg1641)
-
Your car is really coming together now. Those little 3D printed pieces for the windows are really neat. Color looks amazing!
-
Another thing I'm doing is glass installation. Is there a source around to purchase a set of window alignment blocks for
a 73 Transam?
Thanks again,
Darryl
If you are willing to pay the shipping each way (about $15 total) I have a set I can lend. I found mine on Etsy of all places; the vendor would most likely print out a set if you asked.
-
One thing I would suggest, remove the side view mirrors before using the alignment blocks. The vertical guide block may interfere with the side mirror. This happened to me, put a scratch on the side view mirror. Fortunately, I was able to send it to my painted and he can correct that.
Excellent write-up and photos Jim! Although I believe the service manual says to mount the vertical (red) gauge block inboard. Sounds like you had yours pointing outboard which is why there was interference with the side mirror. The resulting window alignment is probably going to be same either way you mount the block but pointing away from the mirrors is the important part. Sorry to hear you damaged your paint. BTW, your car is sporting my new favorite color on a second gen. 8-)
That is something that I overlooked. I’m glad you brought that up because it does make sense. Thanks a lot for the info you provided in previous posts, it was very helpful for sure!
Jim
-
I installed the headliner yesterday and today. It was a bow type headliner and I really liked how they look.. Took about 8 hours total but I like how it turned out. I’m posting a thread on how I did it in the interior section. Not real hard to do but took some time in prepping and installing the headliner.
Jim
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/477F5793-C73A-4C4B-89BA-7A686D72E5A9.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/477F5793-C73A-4C4B-89BA-7A686D72E5A9.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/C11EBBDF-EFB1-4F85-B2F4-4EE3EFBEAB7F.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/C11EBBDF-EFB1-4F85-B2F4-4EE3EFBEAB7F.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/1F9CA0CD-C656-4E4B-8141-6006B9033506.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/1F9CA0CD-C656-4E4B-8141-6006B9033506.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/E66491C5-F6D3-410A-BDED-E72F4D82D71A.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/E66491C5-F6D3-410A-BDED-E72F4D82D71A.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/3EAB4636-A5AE-43B0-9865-8B6CFB0DEA6F.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/3EAB4636-A5AE-43B0-9865-8B6CFB0DEA6F.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
-
Nice job and thank you for the detailed post.
-
I always thought there was an art to installing bow type head liners. It looks great just like the rest of your car!
-
Very nice work!
-
Wow! I'm just seeing the new paint now...Spectacular!
What a beautiful car. I love Formula's, and that color is amazing. Congrats on the progress.
I was in Vegas a few weeks ago I love it out there. We had the best time exploring the desert and mountains. Hot as hell, but I really like that part of the country.
Looking forward to seeing some pics of this thing down on its wheels out in the sunlight. It's a beaut.
-
I should get you to put my car back together!!!
It would look amazing and be done before Christmas!!!
Love it!!
Love the colour choice!!
-
Color looks amazing, great work going on I love it.
Tom H
-
Over the last few weeks I have made more progress on the 72. I installed the dash and the associated stuff that goes along with it it. This took longer than I planned but everything turned out quite well. I dry fitted the dash a couple of times to check fitment and game plan the radio, gauges, and air ducts for the heat and AC.
I went with the Vintage Air Sure Fit AC system. To be honest everything seemed to fit and function quite well. I really thought that would be a challenge but as it turned out , it was pretty straightforward.
For the radio I used a system from RetroSound . They do make a good radio unit and it mounts different than traditional post radios ( stock style), but it does fit well into the original opening. RetroSound also makes a mounting platform to install their radio for a opening that has been cut out. For speakers I used speakers from RetroSound, one 4x10 dual speaker in the dash and two 6x9 speakers in the rear. This setup really produces a great sound and the installation was simple and easy, no amplifiers or additional components. The RetroSound radio has a stock appearance but has Bluetooth, outputs for XM, Aux outputs and pre amp outputs also. The under dash speaker in the front actually serves as two speakers in one.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/E5F75C06-58D8-45B9-9C0F-42B1B09E3C2C.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/E5F75C06-58D8-45B9-9C0F-42B1B09E3C2C.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/18A70378-FDDD-41EC-BC7B-155D61AF3685.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/18A70378-FDDD-41EC-BC7B-155D61AF3685.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/6CFB334F-19E6-4759-9B82-3AD4BBB6676D.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/6CFB334F-19E6-4759-9B82-3AD4BBB6676D.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
After putting in the radio, I mounted the cigar lighter bracket and the control unit, and center vents for the AC. Nothing really complex here .
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/E9C35C45-EF64-4F2A-90B0-D644B48406E4.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/E9C35C45-EF64-4F2A-90B0-D644B48406E4.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
For the wipers I went with a unit from Raingear wipers. This is a pretty neat variation from stock. The wiper motor mounts behind the cowl leaving more space under the hood. The difference in mounting to the dash , is that a rotary type switch is used in place of the stock wiper slider type switch. This also has a delay function for the wiper as well as low and high speed function. The headlamp switch was installed according as well, with one exception, it is turned 180 degrees to provide clearance with the wiper switch.
No now came time to install the bezel and gauges. The bezel was restored by Randy Combs, and his work is really exceptional. For gauges I used Dakota Digital HDX gauges. I really like their gauges , great quality and function. Shortly after I ordered those gauges they came out with the RTX series that have a great resemblance to factory gauges. Had I wanted a few more weeks I would have gone with the RTX gauges, but I really like the HDX gauges.
The dash was restored by Just Dashes . They did a great job restoring the original dash. However two issues that I tackled at this point. First the bezel is a tight fit into the das, simply because it was restored back to original condition. After a few dry fits it seated in place very good. The second issue was Dakota Digital recommends installing the gauges to the bezel and then install the bezel into the dash. Honestly this is a difficult way to do it. What I did was install the bezel and then mount the gauges to the bezel . That seem to work better. I have to add that during this entire process, I did have to make adjustments to get everything to fit really good. That did take a few trial and error making small fitment adjustments. When it was finished I was very happy with the appearance and function.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/81B4C4B5-782A-437B-B175-DE758E947CEF.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/81B4C4B5-782A-437B-B175-DE758E947CEF.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/A4D0FC3E-20DA-47BE-B36A-A6DECA5261E7.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/A4D0FC3E-20DA-47BE-B36A-A6DECA5261E7.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/9A5615DF-DC05-4C60-B7E4-203950949ADC.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/9A5615DF-DC05-4C60-B7E4-203950949ADC.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/7DD82C8D-9197-46DA-B050-0D80191D173D.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/7DD82C8D-9197-46DA-B050-0D80191D173D.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/99822C42-965E-4DE4-95DF-C2D425BCE2A2.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/99822C42-965E-4DE4-95DF-C2D425BCE2A2.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
I installed the real shelf and speakers and I did have have to trim the original speaker cut outs to fit the new speakers. This job is a piece of cake not having the rear window in place.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/86657046-5D86-4BBA-94B4-436F0E0A6267.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/86657046-5D86-4BBA-94B4-436F0E0A6267.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/05A06107-CB25-49FD-A857-EA4C1EF854EF.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/05A06107-CB25-49FD-A857-EA4C1EF854EF.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/3613DDF0-F4EC-4550-A123-B7407733A998.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/3613DDF0-F4EC-4550-A123-B7407733A998.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
This week I have started installing the carpet and I have got quite a bit done on that but like everything else, it takes time to get it just right. I am anxious to get this car back on the road again and start driving it, but I am also reminding myself to keep a steady pace and get it right the first time.
Jim
-
Very nice. Gauge cluster turned out great!
-
X2 real nice I like the gauges.
-
Jim, Im not sure if you were around back when Leigh P was building his formula, but I think your work and attention to detail mirrors some of the stuff he did. That is a compliment in the highest regard. I dont think that its a coincidence that you both work/worked in the aviation industry.
-
Jim, Im not sure if you were around back when Leigh P was building his formula, but I think your work and attention to detail mirrors some of the stuff he did. That is a compliment in the highest regard. I dont think that its a coincidence that you both work/worked in the aviation industry.
Leigh did an amazing job on his 71 Firebird. In fact I think many of our members have done great work on these cars. Kerry you have been one of this guys that have done great work too. I joined in 2013 , shortly after getting my 79 Trans Am. Getting that car and joining TAC is the main reason I have learned so much since then.
I hope that we can continue to keep growing the knowledge base on TAC to help others out with their Firebirds. Definitely one of the best resources for them!
Jim
-
Over the last several days I was able to get the carpet, rear quarter and sail panels installed. The carpet installed pretty well although I did use a steam machine to get it to lay down easier. I bought a McCoullough steam cleaner last winter and it really makes carpet installation much easier. The most time consuming part was getting the carpet in place and making holes for the seatbelt bolts and seat track bolts. When I made the initial holes for the bolts I used an old soldering iron to clean the openings up a bit. This method works great and makes a nice clean opening that will not fray.
Since I was using an aftermarket console I chose to use a vinyl boot for the stick shift. The boot I used was from Lokar .
After I got the carpet in place I trim it to fit and then installed the interior panels. Everything fit in place fairly well with minimal issues. I installed the rear seat belts and the the rear seat.
I found a set of should harness retainers in my parts stash and this was a lucky find. I had to re dye them but the slipped in nice and work great to retain the shoulder harnesses.
I really had no issues with the interior, just something that takes time and patience.
I got the trunk mat installed but still have yet to get it in place with no wrinkles. It is the vinyl mat with the houndstooth trim.
With only the from seats and several other items to install the interior is close to being finished.
Jim
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/731E436B-ADDB-4F21-9AA8-E3BE25F8366E.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/731E436B-ADDB-4F21-9AA8-E3BE25F8366E.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/B56D5162-D8C6-4184-8251-3B6E53D6FD08.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/B56D5162-D8C6-4184-8251-3B6E53D6FD08.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/C65DE37B-4AFD-4822-89A2-1BDD7DB427DC.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/C65DE37B-4AFD-4822-89A2-1BDD7DB427DC.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/FC86F919-6FA0-4E6F-99BE-537D683EE095.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/FC86F919-6FA0-4E6F-99BE-537D683EE095.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/66043E10-B93D-48CC-B82B-36FBD487B9B0.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/66043E10-B93D-48CC-B82B-36FBD487B9B0.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/308E9D46-F833-47BF-97B1-467EB08AA5E1.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/308E9D46-F833-47BF-97B1-467EB08AA5E1.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/79B6169E-84AC-4983-8FAE-4778C80BF894.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/79B6169E-84AC-4983-8FAE-4778C80BF894.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/8BBF15EE-132A-40F4-AB54-BE5705A412E2.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/8BBF15EE-132A-40F4-AB54-BE5705A412E2.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/1889BE90-4843-4237-8A1C-C661DC64F9E0.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/1889BE90-4843-4237-8A1C-C661DC64F9E0.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/F9A522D6-3DF8-4448-A729-1828D0C44601.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/F9A522D6-3DF8-4448-A729-1828D0C44601.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
-
Looks really nice Jim, I too started working on my interior a couple of weeks ago, about the same time you started. My car still looks the same though :shock:
-
Here are som pics of the console. I really like this console because it has cup holders. I used a similar one on my 79 TransAm. I got this from NPD and I believe it is designed to fit first Gen Firebirds without a console. It mounts and fits quite well on the Second Gen cars. I made an opening for the power window switch and the switch mounts similar to stock.
Jim
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/BF47EDC3-82C6-4D22-9F4E-4541A67E4F00.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/BF47EDC3-82C6-4D22-9F4E-4541A67E4F00.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/16B4A7DD-BE81-4D41-A6D8-AC3732BD28B2.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/16B4A7DD-BE81-4D41-A6D8-AC3732BD28B2.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/B56D5162-D8C6-4184-8251-3B6E53D6FD08.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/B56D5162-D8C6-4184-8251-3B6E53D6FD08.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
-
The console and shifter combo looks great, I wonder how it would look with an auto trans?
-
Is that relay block something you bought or made up? Looks nice.
-
It is a relay block that was made using the schematic that was on TAC before the crash. It would work with an automatic console as well. I made it with the smallest footprint so I would work with a stock console automatic or manual.
Jim
-
Youre gonna have to bear with me a bit, as I can get a little dense when it comes to electronics, but where did you source the base plate and the screw in connector thingy? I have the same relay in my 77 but its nowhere near that neat.
-
CE auto Electric supply has all the stuff you need. If you give them a call , Tony Candela Is the owner and he is quite helpful. He actually built this prototype. We talked and emailed a bit about it , but he put the pieces together and sent it to me. The only change I made was simply minor reposition to make it a bit more compact.
Jim
-
I finally got the door panels installed and to be honest it was a bit more work than I expected. I used PUI door panels and although they look very good, the holes for the retainers aren’t even close to the original. It took some time doing trial and fitment but finally got them in place.
I used OER lower door panels as well as the inner door handles. Although they look identical to the factory pieces the fitment was just okay. The inner door handles had to be reworked with some filing in order to get full motion to open the doors. The lower door panels fit okay, but again I needed the modify them a little. The stock mounting style with push pins really wasn’t working well so I used interior finish trim screws which worked out well. All in all , the repop stuff does work and look good, but it isn’t always an exact fit.
I also installed the steering wheel which was a leather wrapped one from Sue Sarfinski. Other people have used her before and she and her husband do a great job on the steering wheels. I got this one done with the extra padding which I believe is correct for 72 and prior steering wheels.
Really all I have left is the two front seats to install and I hoping to have that done over the next few days.
Jim
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/230A77FC-3037-49D6-9D06-CD55F2453D0D.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/230A77FC-3037-49D6-9D06-CD55F2453D0D.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/1613E47C-4A06-489F-87AF-929DBD3AC21E.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/1613E47C-4A06-489F-87AF-929DBD3AC21E.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/4B1B4B28-227F-4839-A397-C28B9C85890A.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/4B1B4B28-227F-4839-A397-C28B9C85890A.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/D0E8B3C2-3AE2-4041-915C-B6705C37E807.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/D0E8B3C2-3AE2-4041-915C-B6705C37E807.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/97D15AEE-3048-4533-AFEB-84A19E449A7B.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/97D15AEE-3048-4533-AFEB-84A19E449A7B.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/FC79F0BC-3BED-47F8-A23A-3FC274F81599.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/FC79F0BC-3BED-47F8-A23A-3FC274F81599.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/AAF36FCA-F1FB-4EFA-B444-3D3728464B20.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/AAF36FCA-F1FB-4EFA-B444-3D3728464B20.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/0644BF75-1ED7-4232-896C-58BF3CFB0898.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/0644BF75-1ED7-4232-896C-58BF3CFB0898.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/76A8D8A4-3CEA-4151-B861-A355EC16277B.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/76A8D8A4-3CEA-4151-B861-A355EC16277B.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/CF349D00-3C69-43CF-89B3-4433C6045DC7.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/CF349D00-3C69-43CF-89B3-4433C6045DC7.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
-
Looking great Jim,
You are so close to completion and must be beyond excitement.
Sorry the door panels were such a pain. I have only purchased a few small reproduction parts for my car, they all were close but not exact.
-
Does look really nice.
-
Those gauges look amazing!
-
I’ve got the interior pretty much finished up. I reassembled the seats and installed them as well as the seat belts. I put the “RAM AIR” decals on the hood and that was easy enough , I took the measurements from the 72 Firebird Assembly Manual.
I also charged the AC and I couldn’t have been happier with the results. The Vintage Air System works exceptionally well!
So now I have a few more things to do, I need to get the front and rear window glass installed, and I need to get an alignment done as well. Once those things are addressed then it will be drive time!
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/B92937C0-DE42-4140-8ADF-545ED1821396.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/B92937C0-DE42-4140-8ADF-545ED1821396.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/41C904A3-A8DE-44CF-9891-1072BD9CA794.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/41C904A3-A8DE-44CF-9891-1072BD9CA794.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/A91E6E2B-E337-4D34-A61E-A181D893EB80.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/A91E6E2B-E337-4D34-A61E-A181D893EB80.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/419F9578-DF91-4E90-90C0-5D3964D4302C.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/419F9578-DF91-4E90-90C0-5D3964D4302C.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/ACF06412-24D8-485D-80A8-CF5948F22CBA.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/ACF06412-24D8-485D-80A8-CF5948F22CBA.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/A4668575-AD3C-440C-85BD-547C435647BA.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/A4668575-AD3C-440C-85BD-547C435647BA.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/60B44043-716D-4100-952B-B7F55958C1AD.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/60B44043-716D-4100-952B-B7F55958C1AD.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/BD68AF9C-564E-4C7D-B35B-28CDC8FA5AFB.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/BD68AF9C-564E-4C7D-B35B-28CDC8FA5AFB.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/1DA32775-21A9-4267-B85F-0D0A562729EA.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/1DA32775-21A9-4267-B85F-0D0A562729EA.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/BE95DFB2-F370-4C45-B0EF-0DE19019E8D1.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/BE95DFB2-F370-4C45-B0EF-0DE19019E8D1.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/26340D03-FEDD-43BA-92BF-7FB4B95811EE.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/26340D03-FEDD-43BA-92BF-7FB4B95811EE.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/5F84AFFB-4B8D-42EB-8458-CEE94FD359F4.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/5F84AFFB-4B8D-42EB-8458-CEE94FD359F4.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/F575A880-F947-4BF1-8D40-23C20F15E1A9.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/F575A880-F947-4BF1-8D40-23C20F15E1A9.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/46C00850-EE5B-471C-9139-26525B54084E.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/46C00850-EE5B-471C-9139-26525B54084E.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
-
Last week I got the windshield and front glass installed. I got a it from Auto City Glass. I used a local company to install them and it fit excellent. I also installed the wipers and window trim. The original trim was in pretty decent shape and it fit black in place pretty good. If you are looking for good replacement glass then Auto City glass is a good choice. I got the tinted glass and it fits every bit as good as the originals.
Jim
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/C544C81D-B999-43D8-9EBF-FDA77CD97EE3.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/C544C81D-B999-43D8-9EBF-FDA77CD97EE3.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/F87BCF68-D8F7-4F19-9828-54A53705B8E6.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/F87BCF68-D8F7-4F19-9828-54A53705B8E6.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/130EAA9B-D307-46A7-B7FF-3FFE809B08E2.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/130EAA9B-D307-46A7-B7FF-3FFE809B08E2.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/74DBA822-98F1-45AD-BFEE-46DBDF5D0F14.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/74DBA822-98F1-45AD-BFEE-46DBDF5D0F14.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/3810E883-F497-407C-8150-10750E562BE8.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/3810E883-F497-407C-8150-10750E562BE8.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
-
Today, I took my 72 Firebird out for its first drive on the road. Yesterday I had the alignment done and my alignment shop did a great job. It’s a small business but the guy does a great job especially on older cars.
The first highway drive turned out quite well. No major issues or problems. I drove it for about an hour and took a short drive to Boulder City. All in all , I put about 42 miles on it. The one thing I was anxious to see is the 5 speed transmission. I got to say I love having the overdrive. I was going just about over 70mph at 1900 rpm. First through fourth gear felt just like my 79 Transmission with a 4 speed. The 5th gear with a .64 overdrive really does well with the 3:23 ratio on the axle.
There are only a few very minor things I have to address and I will take it out for some more driving.
Jim
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/3BEFA273-194A-4156-9BA3-5D6D5437ADF1.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/3BEFA273-194A-4156-9BA3-5D6D5437ADF1.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/F18210B2-DC40-44C7-8C27-06A707E3D111.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/F18210B2-DC40-44C7-8C27-06A707E3D111.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/177262A4-9847-437B-AE52-EC80E66ED642.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/177262A4-9847-437B-AE52-EC80E66ED642.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/1FEEC945-1ED7-4F45-84A9-918C71A4B985.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/1FEEC945-1ED7-4F45-84A9-918C71A4B985.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/7408FD13-C316-470F-BC45-2EC771827CCC.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/7408FD13-C316-470F-BC45-2EC771827CCC.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/3C7E8798-51B0-4B8D-A171-A0914D16B9A3.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/3C7E8798-51B0-4B8D-A171-A0914D16B9A3.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/476F1FE6-5A40-4DDF-8539-0A243976C8AC.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/476F1FE6-5A40-4DDF-8539-0A243976C8AC.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/0E22A41F-672F-493F-A3CE-85E8584413CA.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/0E22A41F-672F-493F-A3CE-85E8584413CA.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/B1DD6609-1FFA-48AF-AAF3-2ADA16F1D568.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/B1DD6609-1FFA-48AF-AAF3-2ADA16F1D568.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/7045C507-0DF3-4FD7-BAD0-B243E83F4ABC.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/7045C507-0DF3-4FD7-BAD0-B243E83F4ABC.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/56483642-1D1D-4EC7-AE19-E5B380BA96CF.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/56483642-1D1D-4EC7-AE19-E5B380BA96CF.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/F2486744-0811-49F7-9FCB-242C5DEC1A6C.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/F2486744-0811-49F7-9FCB-242C5DEC1A6C.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/337BF8AB-199F-4DD2-A171-45B7862791FA.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/337BF8AB-199F-4DD2-A171-45B7862791FA.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/B1DD6609-1FFA-48AF-AAF3-2ADA16F1D568.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/B1DD6609-1FFA-48AF-AAF3-2ADA16F1D568.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/2DBA8094-CC73-4BE7-8872-3347EFE25C46.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/2DBA8094-CC73-4BE7-8872-3347EFE25C46.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/177262A4-9847-437B-AE52-EC80E66ED642.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/177262A4-9847-437B-AE52-EC80E66ED642.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
-
WOW!!!!!!
It looks amazing!!
-
Jim, another Great Job! Absolutely stunning. I guess youre ready to work on the 77 now. I think the count is up to about 3 cars you have finished whilst I am still toiling away at my 79 :shock: I think I need to get you into my shop for about a week.
Good to hear on the Auto City glass. I am about to order a new windshield from them for my 79. Unfortunately they dont have antennae delete in stock. And I dont know if it was bs or not but the guy told me the 2nd gens are in short supply and will be going of stock soon! They were at Hershey and the price was $120 for the windshield. I had no way to carry it back to my truck that was parked a couple of miles away. Such a shame now I will have to pay the price plus shipping.
-
Congratulations! What a dream car!!! I absolutely love what you have accomplished. OK- maybe I'm a bit jealous of that '72 :grin: Well done and well-deserved!
-
That Firebird is a real head turner. Way to go!
-
Congratulations on an outstanding job Jim!
Honestly I am a big fan of maintaining a stock or near stock appearance. I think your modifications have been very tastefully done. Many of the changes are subtle and improve on what the factory did fifty years ago. This car is certainly worthy of a magazine article and calendar picture if you were into to that sort of thing.
I am looking forward to hearing about how it drives. If you could drive an unmodified car and compare it to yours.
-
Thanks for all the replies! The car really drove well and I was really happy overall. I still have some shakedown drives ahead, but so far I am quite optimistic. One thing I had to do was make a retaking clamp/ mount for the parking brake cable in the rear wheel area. The parking brake cable which mounts to the rear brakes was very close to the rear wheel. I fabricated a simple bracket to fix that issue.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/38FDC251-AF3D-492E-8A18-A15C46E12474.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/r721/jc73driver/38FDC251-AF3D-492E-8A18-A15C46E12474.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
The one thing I feel in love with was the TKO600 5 speed transmission. I really liked cruising in the mid 70’s and turning 1900/2000 rpm. The upshift and downshift, was great. If needed to pass on the highway, dropping it into 4th gear made for a great passing gear.
There still may be a few things I’ll have to do, it that comes with any restoration.
Jim
-
I got to say I love having the overdrive. I was going just about over 70mph at 1900 rpm. First through fourth gear felt just like my
79 Transmission with a 4 speed. The 5th gear with a .64 overdrive really does well with the 3:23 ratio on the axle.
Not surprisingly, 1900 is exactly what I am getting with the same equipment. I don't want to change a thing.
Car looks fantastic. The paint is really deep looking and the formy hood and the honeycombs make it look period correct. The interior looks nice and clean and I think the door panels are fine.
Congratulations!
-
Congrats Jim, what everyone else said. Just stunning.