We made the deal yesterday. 1974 Charger. All stock, 318 2bbl. Electric windows and cruise control. All were still operative when parked. It did fire up with no knocks, smoke or rattles. It has a little cancer on the left rear quarter. Someone ripped off the vinyl on the top and bondoed the entire roof. There are some holes drilled in it for the bondo for some dumb ass reason. Seats, carpet, and dash pad all need to be replaced. The car has been stored in a garage in Vegas for ten years and started occasionally.
Original plan was going to be a dirt/prerunner build which would have hacked out the wheel wells, added tubs, etc. Once my wife went over with me, she had this "teenage girl" sparkle in her eyes and she was like "let's build a bad ass street car". So... I guess change of direction.
For just a minute, I felt like that kid again back in 1986 working at the Dodge dealership back home. Funny how many things come back to you in a flash.
(https://sites.google.com/site/otgkml/IMG_1492.JPG)
(https://sites.google.com/site/otgkml/IMG_1493.JPG)
(https://sites.google.com/site/otgkml/IMG_1494.JPG)
Pink Panther not included!
(https://sites.google.com/site/otgkml/IMG_1497.JPG)
:coolgleamA: :2thumbs: :popcrn:
:2thumbs:.
Got it home today. Had to bust open the carb right off. Running off of an electric pump and two gallon gas can so we could get it into the garage. LOTS of work to do for sure. It was just one of those days. It started snowing and sleeting while we were loading it. The driver door locked and now I can;t get it unlocked. I hope it's not a sign of things to come! :icon_smile_big:
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/673/32137618716_a6127b5050_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/752/32137618326_9ff0867f2e_c.jpg)
Stopped by the carwash!
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/642/31365409973_95406a8f50_c.jpg)
This thing was so nasty and gummed up!
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/751/32137617746_9044a82f93_b.jpg)
Well.. I am going to start building the list! The Brown Truck has been delivering goodies all week. All tune up parts, new radiator, hoses, belts, thermostat, etc. I have all new brakes, wheel cylinders, rotors, drums, etc in the cart at Rock Auto now. This is going to be a long project!
Congratulations!!
Looks very nice.
Bob
Quote from: Vegas_Nick on January 07, 2017, 10:39:08 PM
This is going to be a long project!
Enjoy every minute of it! :2thumbs:
Rockauto sometimes gets very surprising and cheap items. I got my drilled and slotted rotors from there on a nice price for my 74, Centric brand.
And they have also the same pieces for the big 11.75" rotors ( an upgrade I want to make someday in the future )... just need to catch the caliper brackets, which are pins, not slider. HAARRRRRRDDD TO FIND ( and pricey when somebody gets them for sale )
Quote from: Nacho-RT74 on January 08, 2017, 12:11:18 PM
Rockauto sometimes gets very surprising and cheap items. I got my drilled and slotted rotors from there on a nice price for my 74, Centric brand.
And they have also the same pieces for the big 11.75" rotors ( an upgrade I want to make someday in the future )... just need to catch the caliper brackets, which are pins, not slider. HAARRRRRRDDD TO FIND ( and pricey when somebody gets them for sale )
They are crazy cheap at times. I have access to the wholesale side of Summit and Rockauto even beats those prices at times.
when you get the PN of the part you want, make the search by PN there. Sometimes they don't have listed the application for them, but just the part stocked. That's how I got my NGK grooved spark plugs in around $1.5 each, while everybody had them in $3 or more.
same happened with the stock replacement Wiper blades and refills ( trico classic line ). Listed around in $20 or so, while I got them in $9.9, but not listed on the car application, just searching by PN
Have a great time! Sounds like your wife is a keeper.... ;)
Dan
Ripping and tearing today. The wiring is a mess! At least the brown truck is bringing in more parts and fixes for that. I have the one wire alternator, circuit breakers and such to bypass the ammeter. I have the parts for the headlight wiring mod.
I pumped the last of the old gas out of the gas tank, and got the radiator out and water pump off today. New radiator is in the garage and water pump is on the way. I just want it driveable while we build a new motor and trans.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/286/31502022563_8028e45d16_c.jpg)
There was no water in the oil or vice versa. I am hoping the block is ok inside and this corrosion is just from sitting with water in it for ten years.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/257/31502022213_40acd91185_c.jpg)
Also pulled out what was left of the battery tray. Looks like I have some welding to do there now. Wondering if I should do a trunk mount battery now??
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/387/31502021473_8b19361d09_b.jpg)
Fun stuff!
If it's going to be a bad ass street car the battery should end up in the trunk anyway. Why not do it now?
Started gutting the inside today. Not as bad as I thought.... not as good as I had hoped.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/749/32179800022_85f7d17291_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/467/32179798762_565698677c_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/500/32179801782_d7a0d509c7_b.jpg)
Looks like....wire brush, patch, POR15, sound mat, and carpet will be the order in here.
What about the seatbelt wiring? I want to make it go away as well.
Building a pile of removed parts.
Alternator, voltage regulator, cruise control, emissions pieces. Does anyone take these, buy these, etc?
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/718/32179797902_e2c5304092_b.jpg)
the cruise control parts could beeee... a back up for me ( if my servo control is really missed )
Quote from: Nacho-RT74 on January 15, 2017, 05:23:16 PM
the cruise control parts could beeee... a back up for me ( if my servo control is really missed )
Pay shipping and tell me how to get it to you and it's yours. :)
Quote from: Vegas_Nick on January 15, 2017, 05:26:14 PM
Quote from: Nacho-RT74 on January 15, 2017, 05:23:16 PM
the cruise control parts could beeee... a back up for me ( if my servo control is really missed )
Pay shipping and tell me how to get it to you and it's yours. :)
Good man! :cheers:
:cheers:
let me check if I find the NOS servo I got looong time ago... is missed somewhere into the body shop
THANKS GOD... the NOS servo I bougth in $80 around 2 years ago appeared at the body shop!!! so, won't be needing the one you have. REALLY appreciatted the offer :angelwing:
you can get good money for the full CC set on ebay if you care. If you include the column switch/lever and harness even more. Maybe up to $140-180. Or even more if the windshield Washer bottle is good. Yes, CC cars got a diff washer reservoir than non CC cars
would need to include the brake booster bracket, wire bracket at throttle linkage bracket and carb lever for it.
( just a suggestion )
the washer bottle on no CC cars is located where the servo is on CC cars and these bottles are available new repro
a pic of my engine bay maybe 8 years ago. note the washer bottle on driver side
(http://www.dodgecharger.com/forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=7603.0;id=12680;image)
We had a break in the weather today so I managed to get the oil changed, new fuel pump and filter, water pump, and new thermostat and housing on.
Took a day off from work. Did the plugs, wires, and installed the new carb. Ordered (reordered) the new radiator. Also need to get the heater valve and heater hoses done. We managed to get the trunk open again and no rust in there! We started grinding on the only weak spot in the passenger rear floor pan. That will be the only patch panel inside thank goodness. Now if my job will get on with mailing our bonus checks, I will appeal to the dpartment of finance for some additional play money!
Slowly getting it there.
Anyone buy new transmission cooler lines and have a good source? One of the ends on mine is all twisted up.
I think I got my cooler lines from Summit. No fitment issues. I went with the stock type, not SS.
Cool. I'll give them a look!
So this weekend I managed to gut the dash and get ready for the Rallye dash conversion. While I was at it, I ran some new wiring to bypass the old ammeter wiring. Also ran new wires for water temp and oil pressure gauges.
I removed all the old air conditioning parts under the hood. Somewhere along the way we will do the upgrade to the new compressor and condensor. For now, just eliminating it all together. I started to mount up the new alternator and realized that I want the bracket kit from Summit, so back to waiting on that.
Well I started working on my own custom dash today. I looked at classic, and after talking to them, I was just unimpressed with their Rallye option. So here is what I did:
Cut the center out of the old dash:
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/335/32614408346_a03742a29a_c.jpg)
Made a cardboard mockup/template for the gauge layout and switch panel where the radio used to be:
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/392/32614407896_2c7a539b79_b.jpg)
Made a form from some birch that I had lying around. Steamed it soaking wet and let it sit in the sun so it would form to the curve of the old dash.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/527/32532649461_1353712e73_c.jpg)
Then I started filling and sanding and test fitting gauges:
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/541/32275811000_1fe83f8e6f_b.jpg)
I had to order a 3 3/8 hole saw for the speedo hole. Once that is here, I'll start laying some glass on the whole thing then comes more sanding and test fitting.
Very impressive. Keep us posted of your progress.
OUCH, dunno what to think about LOL
just in case you care and wish to restore the old stock cluster, I have a NOS 74 standard cluster bezel around LOL ( yes, 74... is slightly diff from 71/73 )
Today I think I went to a whole new level. I was trying to pull the dashpad. Well that lead to pulling the dash. That lead to untaping about 90% of the cabin wore harness to gut out useless crap. Now I have to dynamat the firewall.. and who know's what will happen next!
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/518/32708250205_1011d52eab_b.jpg)
Yeah that's how it usually goes. I once had a 79 Blazer that needed a new front fender and a patch in the cabin. It turned into a 5 month full resto. There's a reason why I like to keep my projects small, and once again with the Charger it got out of hand. :lol:
Tonight I finished un-taping all of the harnesses inside and removed the fuse block. I also pulled the bulkhead connector and have pulled every wire that is not needed and ones that will be replaced such as the start/ign wires. Today I ordered a new Bussman fuse block that has a split bus so I can have BATT and ACC feed. It looks like this:
(https://www.waytekwire.com/images/items/46074FL.gif)
I'm waiting on the fuse block, a Jegs switch panel and about 600 ft of colored hook up wire!
Now I'm kicked back and actually hand drawing the new wiring schematics.
Very nice Nick.
The results of my cleanup:
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2163/31969208664_7ed42eaa90_b.jpg)
I finished testing all the tail light and turn signal wiring tonight. Also was able to do away with the headlight switch, so I'll be adding that to the toggle switches. I'm pretty excited. No we're headed off for a weekend in the desert so It will be a week before I can get back to it.
Not much done this week but buying parts and waiting. Took the weekend off to go play in the desert. So tonight with the few parts that have arrived I started doing a basic mockup of the power panel that will be under the hood.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2097/32867237666_5b48d55179_c.jpg)
The 100A CB is for the alternator feed. The small 80A relay is for accessory power control.
I'll also have a separate fuse block in the center console.
I started making my wire list this week and wiring the fuse block. Old avionics habits die hard.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2263/32116490104_a044b81ddd_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2748/32116489894_f4dde5b59d_b.jpg)
Still waiting on terminals for the bulkhead connector and brackets for the fuse block.
In the meantime, I looked at the gauges one too many times and decided to rework what I started. We're off to buy the supplies to get this stated today:
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2033/32116490304_d457491ac1_c.jpg)
Happy Sunday!
I worked the instrument cluster most of the day.
Fleece and glue.. well the first try ended up being a balled up wad of pissed off on the floor. :rofl: :rofl: Next try went much better. Hey, this was my first time at this:
Just test fitting it loosely
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2760/32961288726_0dcc0269c3_c.jpg)
Spray adhesive hell...
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2810/32961288416_775db5ca1b_c.jpg)
Now the fun begins:
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2601/32961288036_3fd639b161_b.jpg)
Had to clamp a few places to assure the corners stayed put:
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2150/32961287416_d09f558568_b.jpg)
First Sanding and some test fitting:
(https://c2.staticflickr.com/4/3798/32961286536_752f0651d2_b.jpg)
And then the "rondo" application. It's a mix of Resin and Bondo that makes a self leveling filler:
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2421/32847532182_9ddbbe07c3_b.jpg)
And tomorrow we sand and then sand some more!
In between sanding and filling today I started laying out the electrical panel. I am still waiting on the mount bracket for the fuse block to get this drilled up and then it all comes apart for paint.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2482/32961286936_0d792d66b0_c.jpg)
A little more progress this weekend:
I started laying the wires in the car finally. Yeah, I know it's nasty under the hood. I'm going to gut it out and handle all under the hood when the 318 finally dies. :)
(https://c2.staticflickr.com/4/3774/33115349795_270052e8b3_c.jpg)
The dash is coming along as well:
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2936/33115350285_99c219dbf9_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/729/33115350945_d46d2910a4_c.jpg)
I am still struggling with how to make the AC controls look better. I am thinking about getting a bezel 3D printed or an billet one to match the switch panel. And yeah, I am keeping the factory wiper switch on that panel. I may try to do something better with the lock nut and the knob.
Very nice :cheers: :cheers:
Bob
Well first off, my weekend was somewhat darkened by finding how bad the roof line on this thing was rusted and hidden under the bondo.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2948/33232676096_77aae5cfce_b.jpg)
But... I just tossed that aside and test fit the new dash so I could work on some wiring for now:
(https://c2.staticflickr.com/4/3771/33118137052_c61da2bf10_b.jpg)
Finally found my dream exhaust! So happy to see they still make Boom Tubes!
(http://www.drgas.com/assets/images/boomtubetip.jpg)
After a full 7 days of the flu I was able to get out and get this thing started! Ran into one issue with junk ECU's from Oreilly. Solved that by building a new harness for a GM Ignition control Module. RUNS again! The goal really has been just to get it running and driveable with the original 318 2BBL and get it to the welding shop. We have to replace 1/4 of the roof it looks like and want to get the roll cage started. After that, I'll just enjoy it while we work the 360 stroker build. When I do the engine swap, I am going to to the K member replacement and paint the engine bay.
Here's the GM ECU I put in:
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2849/33409946241_432e06edd6_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2873/33497708136_3de08e7cbb_b.jpg)
Started cutting away bondo and bad metal today. I'm not going to lie. This is making me question if I should have started this at all. I am not a metal guy by any means so this is going to be learn as I go project. So I have at least bought a new welder, and now buying a shrinker/stretcher from Eastwood so I can make the window frame. Tis is intimidating as hell but since it's not going to be a show quality restoration, I'll keep trying and see how she looks!
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4165/34599523115_9f94559316_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4171/34468982451_285439fc94_b.jpg)
It's only metal. You'll get it!
While I am waiting on things like the metal stretcher and shrinker set, and all new brake system parts to show up, I decided to tackle the pinion bearing seal change and the rearend oil. It looked like mud coming out! I am sure it will have to get a full rebuild at some point but for new, fresh Lucas oil, a new seal, and a new cover and she'll be good as almost new.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4188/34501364082_a9e3316763_b.jpg)
The rear end is back together. I guess it should be a hint to the fun awaiting me when I found spider nests in the brakes!
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4155/34418348690_03dcede969_c.jpg)
Rear wheel cylinders were completely frozen up. No fluid to the rear brakes so I'll have to figure this out.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4186/34418345030_9ece8dbd68_c.jpg)
The trans pan gasket was leaking like crazy. This is how the filter looked on a 100K + miles. The thing shifts fine and drove fine for the few miles that I have driven the thing.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4274/34418346630_abf4a0765b_b.jpg)
And last for the weekend. I finally started working on forming the new front window/roof line. Shrink, stretch, dolly and hammer. fit, test, repeat. Slowly but surely I will get this puzzle done.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4268/34418344220_40b10520fd_c.jpg)
Manged to get some metal welded down and started working on a new rear floor pan.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4276/34566704210_4a8b8f21ca_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4247/34954400005_fbe2040608_c.jpg)
So this week I started getting some of the "rubber"....
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4272/34271750513_3a4c144b5a_c.jpg)
And I drove to Havasu to pick up the 360 from Dave's Mopars. Great guy! 1986 truck motor.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4232/34918252332_acb97ea3c9_c.jpg)
I had to do at least something before I quit for the night
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4257/34918251692_2d258a3576_b.jpg)
You're doing great work. :2thumbs: (I've bought some parts from Dave in Havasu years ago)
I guess I got lucky! Serious detonation at some point but the cylinder and head look great!
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4272/34933105522_70f3cd911c_b.jpg)
Overall, I have something to work with. It really is fairly clean on the inside for a 1976!
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4230/35057483346_8985c0c75f_b.jpg)
Good job, so far, hope you enjoy working on your project, as much as I enjoy reading about it,LOL!!!!
I like how you are making it your own!
Good luck, and keep up the great work!!!!!
Quote from: Bad B-rad on June 04, 2017, 03:00:17 PM
Good job, so far, hope you enjoy working on your project, as much as I enjoy reading about it,LOL!!!!
I like how you are making it your own!
Good luck, and keep up the great work!!!!!
Thanks man! I work a really high stress job so this is my "escape" when I can. I crank up the classic rock and escape to my "happy place" :icon_smile_big:
Quote from: Vegas_Nick on June 04, 2017, 03:53:24 PM
Quote from: Bad B-rad on June 04, 2017, 03:00:17 PM
Good job, so far, hope you enjoy working on your project, as much as I enjoy reading about it,LOL!!!!
I like how you are making it your own!
Good luck, and keep up the great work!!!!!
Thanks man! I work a really high stress job so this is my "escape" when I can. I crank up the classic rock and escape to my "happy place" :icon_smile_big:
Gotta stay in the "Happy Place!" :cheers:
:popcrn:
Did you break into my garage and steal my 74?
Its almost a complete twin of mine. (except mine needs more work).
Meticulous thread. Thanks for the documentation of this project.
Meanwhile, I'll :popcrn:
Quote from: 451-74Charger on June 07, 2017, 11:39:57 AM
Did you break into my garage and steal my 74?
Its almost a complete twin of mine. (except mine needs more work).
Way cool! It looks ready to run! :icon_smile_big:
Not much this weekend other than pulling the pan on the 360. No metal in the oil pan so that is a plus!
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4235/35078664282_7e41c40c6b_c.jpg)
Also dropped out the exhaust and hacked it up for the garbage man. :) Of course, I had to crank it up for just a bit. LOL
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4206/34399922034_7299c2f531_c.jpg)
Man it's HOT here in Vegas this week! I started out looking at the roof on the car again, grinding away more bondo, and had a total change of direction. I said screw it, cutting the roof off. Just too much rust and too many holes to work with.
The more I ground off Bondo, the more I see that was bad. The entire roof was made of it!
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4286/34982758790_e6c2b9ed8e_b.jpg)
Someone here told me...it's only metal! So off it came!
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4196/34559758403_ba59e27456_b.jpg)
Glad I did because the rust is really bad. More bondo and newspaper underneath. So now I will get it all prepped for making a new skin and hope someone in town will let me borrow their english wheel for a day. :)
I think you should be able to get a new rook skin from a donor. I know a guy in GA who got one full roof even is not off to ship it, you should pick it up. He is member around here and the 3rd gen board.
Being in Nevada, some other should be fine at some JY
I'd like to get a roof skin for myself allong with the front beam, but in tropic is nearly impossible so I have to live with patches here and there
And about the piston... are all pistons like that? It doesn't seems like a detonation to me, but some kind of stuff got into the cilinder ( tiny nut or screw ). I saw that once in an old Renault 5 which btw got aluminium head so the combustion chamber was exactly the same, not just the piston. Somehow a nut got inside the cylinder and made that.
Quote from: Nacho-RT74 on June 18, 2017, 07:04:22 AM
I think you should be able to get a new rook skin from a donor. I know a guy in GA who got one full roof even is not off to ship it, you should pick it up. He is member around here and the 3rd gen board.
Being in Nevada, some other should be fine at some JY
I'd like to get a roof skin for myself allong with the front beam, but in tropic is nearly impossible so I have to live with patches here and there
Hi Nacho! I started looking at it. The donor roof was like $600, the back half of the cra was more than I paid for this one. If this was going to be a show restoration, I would o it but since it will be more of a race car than show, I am just patching it. That, and I am using it to learn on.
And yeah, just the one piston. You can see it up close looking like edges were melted away. The cylinder and head are unharmed. Weird!
Quote from: Nacho-RT74 on June 18, 2017, 07:04:22 AM
I think you should be able to get a new rook skin from a donor. I know a guy in GA who got one full roof even is not off to ship it, you should pick it up. He is member around here and the 3rd gen board.
Being in Nevada, some other should be fine at some JY
I'd like to get a roof skin for myself allong with the front beam, but in tropic is nearly impossible so I have to live with patches here and there
I think that roof was only 150 bucks. On the 3rd gen site his name is Tom.
Well my 4th weekend is almost over. Started pulling the engine out. Found the K-frame dented. (I missed that somehow all this time) I guess I'll go with a tube one from JEGS now. Oh darn! :) Also worked on the roof a bit. Saving some $$ so I can buy an English wheel and make the new skin.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4010/35638194596_af5fe212f7_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4063/35638193236_4751eb1f10_c.jpg)
One tired old motor. Damn thing ran good. Leaked water from every freeze plug! LOL
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4016/35677739015_a03cfcd754_b.jpg)
Was going to pull the motor tonight and then...&#^$%$ hoist is too short! I was going to pull the bumper anyway, so might as well do it this weekend.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4238/35848907926_c8e9aab328_h.jpg)
Motor is OUT!
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4240/35539029960_ccdb7e7411_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4239/35757442682_4f9c3eac8f_c.jpg)
This poor motor is a museum piece!
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4322/35539029200_28ea04dcd9_b.jpg)
I started filling in the corner lights now.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4320/35973066426_ea80acd8e2_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4306/35843522252_0ff298c4d5_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4326/35843520742_25140b8333_b.jpg)
Started working on this today:
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4319/36120022331_c5c0e5d4af_c.jpg)
I went old school and made a hammer form for it after I did the cutout.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4308/35448940883_0491b6b02a_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4299/35448940813_e18aa737ac_c.jpg)
Hammer forming!
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4316/35420817344_3f575709f6_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4303/35420817224_3454cb565c_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4326/35420817124_b1dba71ae8_b.jpg)
Started welding and getting it in place:
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4319/35420817044_99e2775f69_b.jpg)
Now I have to tackle this mess:
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4311/35420816914_fbf6240e38_b.jpg)
Very nice work!!
Thanks for posting updates.
Thanks Bob! I am hoping someone enjoys it. LOL
I enjoy it. Looks good. :2thumbs:
:popcrn: :popcrn: :popcrn:
Ok, I am starting to stretch my knowledge of body work. I think I have passed the YouTube and Facebook school of body work tests now so here we go:
Started pushing the entire fender back out. I searched Vegas and couldn't find a a body ram so I made do:
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4311/35420816914_fbf6240e38_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4297/36250776216_0188fb6623_b.jpg)
I stared doing some light hammer work and realized that this is a pocket. Two layers of freaking metal. So I went ahead marked it off and cleaned all the paint:
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4291/35486065503_10075cf156_b.jpg)
I cut off the outer skin trying to follow the contour line:
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4294/35486064163_5a87a18192_b.jpg)
My plan is to straighten the inner liner, straighten the skin along the contour line, hammer and dolly work on the removed skin till it is smooth again and weld the removed piece back in place. Update when I have that done.
I haven't been able to do much lately. My wife is very sick so running her back and forth to blood tests and doctors has been my priority. So tonight while she was napping, I filled in the last corner marker light.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4331/35790024603_457b16bfaa_b.jpg)
A little more grinding and polishing and a layer of filler and away we go! It's good therapy.
Umm does not a car need side marker lights to be road legal if it had them originally ?
We don't have vehicle inspections here in NV. I have done some research and could not find anything in NRS (Nevada law) that speaks to them directly. There may be some vague Federal laws but I don't think the DOT will be too concerned about my car. :rofl:
Spent the last few nights working out the fuell cell cage. It is still a work in progress while I fab the pieces to follow the "trunk hump".
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4356/36274626010_4a508fa07c_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4412/35861269233_31018dc2db_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4335/36274585200_580cd54b2d_b.jpg)
I am on house arrest for today. Hopefully she will grant my parole tomorrow and I can get back to it!
I know somebody at FBBO searching for 74 gas tank straps! Dunno if already got them
Somebody grabbed those quick! Along with the old tank!
I'll be so damned glad when these 100+ degree days are gone.
I have the cage and cell in. Hanging by two bolts until probably next weekend when I can go at it again.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4357/36306647380_cffdac0c3f_c.jpg)
The roll cage fabricator is stopping by tomorrow. Time to turn that pile of tube into something!
I like the new direction you are heading in :coolgleamA:
22 gal?
I just went 20 on this one.
Love that car man!
Been a slow week. Took some much needed vacation time from the airline. Contemplating a move to Florida if it's still there next week. But anyway....
Lower Control Arms and ball joints. Screw in ball joints are the work of the devil! Took a four ft cheater bar but I managed to get it loose!
I picked up a set from a forum member so I am stripping them down to drop off for bead blasting. Already found the new pivot pins, bushings, bump stops, and stiffener plates.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4396/36215124464_6c261310a8_b.jpg)
The socket was from Amazon. Like $25 for the two.
those are 73 LCA! one year production. 74 and laters are press in ball joints
Thanks Nacho! Will they work on the 74 as well? Just discovered that he gave me one screw in and one press in! :brickwall:
Yeap... the only diff is the ball joint itself.
I think you can even use a press in ball joint into a 73 LCA... not sure thought. Having both in hands is just about measure the diameter of the opening in both.
I think moog offers problem solver ball joints with +.002 oversize to fit tight
Thanks man! I'll order a set of press in ones as well.
Quote from: Nacho-RT74 on September 05, 2017, 05:10:38 PM
Yeap... the only diff is the ball joint itself.
I think you can even use a press in ball joint into a 73 LCA... not sure thought. Having both in hands is just about measure the diameter of the opening in both.
I think moog offers problem solver ball joints with +.002 oversize to fit tight
Nacho, the other arm was threaded and someone pressed a ball joint into it! I have them off getting bead blasted now and will see how the threads look when I get them back.
I know this may make some heads explode but....
continuing with the entire NASCAR theme, I pulled the dash back out and started working the pattern for the new dash. Keeping the heater and AC so I'll have to make new ducts for them. Also working on servo controls for the air box so I can ditch the factory vacuum ones. Adding a PWM controller for the blower so as to eliminate the resistor. Lots of fun stuff at any rate! I'll move the switches and controls all to the center console as I fabricate it up.
So for today:
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4418/36692650880_97106a7ffd_o.jpg)
First cut and test fit:
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4387/36692650610_c37083311d_o.jpg)
Instrument cluster hitting ebay later as I'll go all Autometer on the new direction.
I would keep all the spare bits until you are totally done just in case you needed to look at something or change something around
Quote from: Vegas_Nick on September 07, 2017, 02:19:34 PM
I know this may make some heads explode but....
mine several posts ago LOL
So this weekend I have been on lockdown with the boss lady mostly, but I did manage to cut out the Lexan 1/4 windows and get the ready to mount.
Also got the dash fit up started.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4356/36451645594_6bfeeb8f76_c.jpg)
Mostly mocked up now while I figure out mounts, and how it will play with the roll cage on the sides. Annndddd.... how to design a center console.
Thanks to Bryan for some cool stuff! Did some trading and came out with a roof skin, a heater box and some other goodies.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4422/37301020921_688a73b686_c.jpg)
The roof skin is going to save a TON of work for me!
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4336/36631369683_d371063ea8_c.jpg)
I got it all fit up, soaked it with the POR 15 rust remover, sanded down and filler primed.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4336/36631369683_d371063ea8_c.jpg)
Just going to leave it clecoed in place for a bit while we fit up the roll cage.
Also SUPER happy that I found this little jewel today. This was the last piece to making the AC and heater have full electronic controls. Classic Air had it for about $80!
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4371/37271800452_1bf2ac8dcc_c.jpg)
Happy as can be! Bending some tube finally! What a workout!
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4337/37274776746_40733fde5f_c.jpg)
No fancy hydraulics here. All manual labor. :)
Main hoop fitted up tonight!
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4349/37351982462_a0f5948976_b.jpg)
Back to work this week so we will see what I can get done next week.
Quote from: Vegas_Nick on September 24, 2017, 11:45:48 PM
Thanks to Bryan for some cool stuff! Did some trading and came out with a roof skin, a heater box and some other goodies.
Glad I could help. :2thumbs:
Looks like you're moving right along. :cheers:
Quote from: Vegas_Nick on January 07, 2017, 10:39:08 PM
Got it home today. Had to bust open the carb right off. Running off of an electric pump and two gallon gas can so we could get it into the garage. LOTS of work to do for sure. It was just one of those days. It started snowing and sleeting while we were loading it. The driver door locked and now I can;t get it unlocked. I hope it's not a sign of things to come! :icon_smile_big:
Sounds like Christine had a younger brother...Be careful there
Quote from: 451-74Charger on October 19, 2017, 02:29:50 PM
Quote from: Vegas_Nick on January 07, 2017, 10:39:08 PM
Got it home today. Had to bust open the carb right off. Running off of an electric pump and two gallon gas can so we could get it into the garage. LOTS of work to do for sure. It was just one of those days. It started snowing and sleeting while we were loading it. The driver door locked and now I can;t get it unlocked. I hope it's not a sign of things to come! :icon_smile_big:
Sounds like Christine had a younger brother...Be careful there
If it would just have driven itself into the garage!
Very little progress the past few weeks.
Got the main hoop and cross bar ready to weld in. Started fitting the seat and now we're having to pack up for the move to Florida so it's on hold for a while.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4485/37452784606_ef417417e2_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4460/23670354658_62b7eb5bd5_c.jpg)
Loooong intermission! We moved back to Daytona finally and between packing and moving she didn't get much love. NOW, we're settled in and I am back on it. Pretty much the same direction with the build. Trying to keep it legal for Champ Car, so that may entail buying another set of doors to gut and keep the ones with the windows for daily-ish driving.
SO...here's where I am at now.
Loading her up for Daytona:
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4549/37948604114_ae3d48e646_b.jpg)
Finally tearing the K frame and it's associated pieces out. Good news is that the spindles and K frame will be the only parts re-used. Everything else is new. Combination of Moog, Firm Feel, and a few others. I have the K frame off for sand blasting and while I am waiting on that, I am building a set of lower control arms and tidying up more under the hood.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4608/38984830075_dee1a31d3c_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4668/38984829865_7fc77652cf_b.jpg)
Glad you're settled in & back at it :cheers:
Cool deal Nick. :2thumbs:
Boy that roof looks a lot better, wonder why lol.
Congrats on making the move and finally settled in. :cheers:
Quote from: VegasCharger on January 26, 2018, 07:10:14 AM
Cool deal Nick. :2thumbs:
Boy that roof looks a lot better, wonder why lol.
Congrats on making the move and finally settled in. :cheers:
:cheers: MUCH better!!
QuoteTrying to keep it legal for Champ Car, so that may entail buying another set of doors to gut and keep the ones with the windows for daily-ish driving. /quote]
What is Champ Car? Googled it but come up with formula-type cars.
Mike,
It used to be "Chump" car. They have been revamping the series somewhat to separate it from the other sanctioning body known as "lemons".
https://champcar.org/
Familiar with both..... didn't realize they had changed the name away from Chump. Have not been paying close enough attention I guess. Thanks.
K member back from the sandblaster. Found a few cracks and bad welds.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4743/39991036791_966e3a53da_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4671/28212002849_8ceb88b603_b.jpg)
Also, my welding helmet took a dump today so I started working on the fuel filler cutout:
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4671/39991036301_1e1d6d4d71_b.jpg)
Quote from: Vegas_Nick on January 29, 2018, 09:04:49 AM
Mike,
It used to be "Chump" car. They have been revamping the series somewhat to separate it from the other sanctioning body known as "lemons".
https://champcar.org/
The name change is fitting really, it has become a very competitive series, with some serious effort from many teams. It's weird to see a LeMons car in the field......
My weekend is over and this is where I left off:
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4669/39225455035_cc78749c2b_b.jpg)
Note to self:
Hot tank the next K member you do!
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4758/28343666839_69519f6fa6_b.jpg)
Do you have a part number for that heater control, Where did you buy it from?
Quote from: charger_mike75 on February 18, 2018, 08:39:47 AM
Do you have a part number for that heater control, Where did you buy it from?
Here is one:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/ELECTRONIC-BYPASS-HEATER-CONTROL-VALVE-NEW/152578583141?hash=item2386646a65:g:DzkAAOSwTf9ZOcWG&vxp=mtr
The kit I used is from Vintage Air. 50507-VUA - Servo Heater Valve Kit with control knob and pod
Coming together finally:
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4715/40380147201_40fa669776_c.jpg)
The Firm Feel sway bar is massive! Can't wait to drive this thing!
cool build :cheers:
If I would have found this thread a few weeks ago I wouldn't have had to ask which way the hood to cowl seal goes! lol
Wayyy behind on updates!
Roll cage is going along.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/787/26945806038_a4aee7b2f6_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4794/39878755675_38da8ede65_o.jpg)
Dash fabrication moving right along too!
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/812/26108076297_2fe3dd21e3_c.jpg)
Getting my workout bending 1 3/4 x .120 wall tube!
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4790/40063849524_95ddd4afcc_o.jpg)
And I have been sourcing some original contingency stickers to match the #71 K&K Insurance car.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4778/40085917235_c445197848_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4780/40937633132_26f98e67d6_c.jpg)
So now I am up to the point of getting the door bars and the rear bars done and working interior sheetmetal. I actually scored a second set of doors with manual regulators so I am going to be putting the electric motors and regulators up for sale soon. That along with a bunch of other parts like new tie rod ends, Grant steering wheel, etc.
:coolgleamA: :2thumbs: :popcrn:
:2thumbs: looking great!!!
Test fit the dash today with the defog vents installed.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/798/40284504744_3c795e3887_b.jpg)
This weeks progress. All the front end back together minus the torsion bar cross member. It's out being blasted before I put it back.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/849/40660317785_c43c18966e_b.jpg)
And the dash had its final fit check so now it's wiring time!
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/915/41553499401_546618d13a_b.jpg)
Next week I should finish the cage and move on to the seat mounts and window nets.
Wow, it has been a LONG while! Life happens I guess. Was almost to the point of selling it, and everything in the garage with it not long ago. Between working 12 hour shifts, some of the wife's health issues and such, I just lost site of what I wanted to do with this thing. Luckily, my wife reminded me how much I loved this thing. So, I rolled it outside and started doing body work again. Decided to go full-on stock car replica. No side glass, removing the door handles and blanking out those holes.
(http://ratrageous.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/IMG_2782.jpg)
(http://ratrageous.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/IMG_3021-1.jpg)
I also bought a 5.9 Magnum crate motor for now just so I can get the thing running and driving while I spend some $$ building the other engine.
At any rate, UPS is delivering parts and pieces daily. Hopefully my Christmas present will be driving this thing to work. :)
It's only been a couple days since your last update.
Right! April-October has been nuts. Almost lost my wife. a lifetime of smoking caught up with her. She's better and after living ona ventilator for a week, she's done smoking.
Now I can get on with car stuff....with her by my side.
Now that you've gone full nutz on this, will we see 15x10's all around and radiuses wheel wells?! :scope:
That may be in the future! When I wear these tires out.
FINALLY fired this thing up!
https://youtu.be/2cgNiIBLa_k?t=11
I am still keeping a fairly decent build log over here:
http://ratrageous.com/
:nixon:
I didn't notice before how weird looks the pre 72 sway bar end links setup on 73 and lates... how did you attach them ?
For the Firm Feel, you have to drill the LCA and add their mounts. (or weld them in place)
ok, just like earliers LCA are
So this happened last week:
(http://ratrageous.com/wp-content/uploads/photo-gallery/imported_from_media_libray/IMG_3698%20(1).jpg?bwg=1548393841)
Looks good :2thumbs:
Oops, you oversprayed your window sill :lol:
Can't wait to see it with lettering and decals. Looks like you are well on your way too getting track time this year! :drive:
Quote from: RallyeMike on January 26, 2019, 01:21:27 PM
Oops, you oversprayed your window sill :lol:
Can't wait to see it with lettering and decals. Looks like you are well on your way too getting track time this year! :drive:
HA! That is where I had the exhaust fan setup! :)
:2thumbs: :2thumbs: :2thumbs:
Damn... VegasCharger and Vegas_Nick allways gets me confused with their nicknames LOL. And becomes worst reading you on the rest of boards LOL
Finally got a good shakedown run today! Loud and obnoxious but she did well. I didn't have to trailer it home. LOL
(http://ratrageous.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/IMG_8749-2.jpg)
I'll just leave this here:
(http://ratrageous.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/stickers.jpg)
:coolgleamA: :2thumbs:
:woohoo:
Original Winston Sticker on the door :2thumbs:
Finally a drive down the interstate. Obviously going to need a six speed...or a regear for any serious speed.
https://youtu.be/WfHKmqmVSNc
But I do love that sound!
(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7826/46310617145_d6eabe9843_c.jpg)
... waiting for news on planned track debut!
Supposed to run at Daytona tomorrow night if the weather cooperates!
Good luck and have fun. What channel will it be on? :icon_smile_cool:
Looks awesome!
Well all I can say is that I'll be shopping for a four or five speed now! Damn this was fun but sucked having an auto trans...especially a cranky one. LOL Still... I did it. I drove Daytona!
https://youtu.be/jvUqL18yvk4
Sweet :2thumbs: :2thumbs:
How fast were you going on the bank corners ?
I was told by the guy that chased me for a bit that we were around 135-ish. :) He was in a Vette and followed me a bit for some video.
Some shots from the track:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47792457501_cea09e71c1_c.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47792457221_5135107ce1_c.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/40826171403_924245c247_c.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/40826175493_74c3022304_b.jpg)
Too bad Nascar won't skin their current cars in vintage appearing sheetmetal. Looks good out there
Mission accomplished. Thanks or the photos :icon_smile_cool:
Quote from: RallyeMike on May 07, 2019, 09:50:49 PM
Mission accomplished. Thanks or the photos :icon_smile_cool:
Now I can work on it for six monhs and plan on taking it to Charlotte once I get some of the bugs worked out. Like adding the 5spd, and probably a rear sway bar. :)
Updated post below
Looks like fun :2thumbs: :popcrn:
Quote from: Vegas_Nick on May 08, 2019, 06:39:27 AM
Quote from: RallyeMike on May 07, 2019, 09:50:49 PM
Mission accomplished. Thanks or the photos :icon_smile_cool:
Now I can work on it for six monhs and plan on taking it to Charlotte once I get some of the bugs worked out. Like adding the 5spd, and probably a rear sway bar. :)
Whoa, you did not add a rear sway bar.?? :scratchchin:
Quote from: ACUDANUT on August 05, 2019, 04:54:56 PM
Quote from: Vegas_Nick on May 08, 2019, 06:39:27 AM
Quote from: RallyeMike on May 07, 2019, 09:50:49 PM
Mission accomplished. Thanks or the photos :icon_smile_cool:
Now I can work on it for six monhs and plan on taking it to Charlotte once I get some of the bugs worked out. Like adding the 5spd, and probably a rear sway bar. :)
Whoa, you did not add a rear sway bar.?? :scratchchin:
Not yet!
Since my last update, we have ran Daytona again! Topped out at 145 on the backstretch before the infamous "Bus Stop" chicane. Had a blast, but killed the transmission. The old 904 held up as long as she could I guess. Also, burned up my tail light wires. Digging into it, all of the tail light sockets had super high resistance. The contacts were just flat worn out. I know you can refresh the solder on them, but the left housing had started to crack in all sorts of places. It even had a missing piece.
That being said, I have bought three more engines. One in the machine shop now. Also have the 5Spd hooking to it. And... I started fabricating my own LED tail light setup. I know it will make the purists cry, but for a track car, this fit the bill for function, and safety.
Pics of it all:
(http://ratrageous.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/AtTheStripe.jpg)
(http://ratrageous.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/2019_08_0119_04_063137-1024x683.jpg)
And the LED tail light set up that I am working on:
(http://ratrageous.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Tail3.jpg)
Also, if you want to hear that 5.9 turning 6500 rpm...
https://youtu.be/NQ1qfExsFjo
Thanks for vid :2thumbs:
:drool5:
Well it's "tear down for the winter season" at my house. Good news is that I am building a brand new 408 for it and swapping over to an NV3500 five speed. And for your entertainment:
The 904 had a few issues:
(http://ratrageous.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/IMG_2317.jpg)
Did you know it was going to look like that before you took it apart ??
Quote from: 70 sublime on November 05, 2019, 03:29:50 PM
Did you know it was going to look like that before you took it apart ??
No sir! I drove the thing from Daytona to Darlington and back. I am sure it was like that. The pressure from the engine against it I am sure is all that was holding it together.
Engine out and test fit the transmission:
(http://ratrageous.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/IMG_2320-1024x768.jpg)
Started the design of a new trans mount using parts from the old crossmember. I used side by side bushings that mated in the middle. Hoping to give a little bit more cushion for the twist
(http://ratrageous.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/IMG_2680-1024x768.jpg)
Finally done with that.
(http://ratrageous.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/IMG_2681-1024x768.jpg)
Now I am working on a remote short shifter so it doesn't feel like driving a dump truck.
And by the way... managed to get an orbital fracture from a piece of steel stock that I was using as a spacer on top of the trans while I was setting it all up! That hurt like a bitch.
(http://ratrageous.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/IMG_2677-914x1024.jpg)
Is this the Dakota 3500 version? Any tricks needed to matching up the converter?
Quote from: RallyeMike on December 27, 2019, 08:13:34 AM
Is this the Dakota 3500 version? Any tricks needed to matching up the converter?
It is. I went with it because I can find them all day long here between $100-$500 in great shape so if I rip it up, then I have a spare.
Honestly, I grabbed an entire flywheel and clutch kit for the 5.9 Dakota as well as the Dakota clutch master cylinder/slave cylinder kit. Pretty much made it all plug and play. You can use the hole where the factory clutch rode goes through to mount the master cylinder. Only issue is you will have to make a custom rod to go from the clutch pedal and the master cylinder. Also, have to drill a new hole in the clutch pedal arm due to the angle of the actuator. I'll get some pics when I am done with that.
It does take up some real estate under the trans tunnel. I decided cutting the tunnel open and fabricating a new section was much easier than trying to bang out places that need clearance. (Because...race car)
I found a drive shaft from an A body that was the correct length and actually found the correct conversion U joint at Advance Auto.
The cross member and mount was the only real fabrication. I am sure given ten people doing this, there would be ten different versions. I wanted to use what I had on hand. I had a lot of suspension bushings left from other projects so that is why I designed the mount that I did. I might go back later and make a jig and fabricate a tube cross member. I will wait and see if I break anything at the next Daytona run!
Oh.. and I am fabricating a short throw remote shifter for it as well.
"Converter" :-\ I guess I should ease back on sniffing glue!
Progress is happening...
Engine runs awesome! I fabricated a remote shifter before the road test. Beats feeling like I am driving a Peterbuilt!
(http://ratrageous.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/IMG-2840-1024x768.jpg)
Quote from: Vegas_Nick on January 10, 2020, 02:54:22 PM
Progress is happening...
Engine runs awesome! I fabricated a remote shifter before the road test. Beats feeling like I am driving a Peterbuilt!
(http://ratrageous.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/IMG-2840-1024x768.jpg)
That's interesting, how is the slop with that remote, can you still achieve positive gear changes? Pretty clever idea :2thumbs:
IT actually shifts fairly solid. It's a Dakota trans so it is naturally a bit clunky, but not too bad. Swapping out the oil in it this weekend after several days of research. Going with Redline MT90 and hopefully that smooths it out even more.
Well.. the "new" trans turned out to be garbage. It was probably garbage before I bought it. At any rate, I ended up with a damn good NV3500 that shifts like butter. Loving this car more and more every day.
All buttoned up now:
(http://ratrageous.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/newTrans.jpg)
And as luck would have it, my fellow Mopar buddy called up and asked if I wanted something really cool. Of course, he's like the hot chick in the "free candy" van tempting me...
8 3/4 with Posi and big drum brakes. It will be a few months before I overhaul it and swap it into the Charger, but at least I have the holy grail for my car now!
(http://ratrageous.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/83-4.jpg)