67 Firebird [Archive]

southrod

16-01-2009, 07:05 AM

been tinkering with the engine bay
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/Picture035.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/Picture034-1.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/Picture023-2.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/Picture019-3.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/Picture033-3.jpg

southrod

16-01-2009, 07:09 AM

More metal porn
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/Picture032-1.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/Picture030-1.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/Picture029-2.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/Picture005-3.jpg

southrod

16-01-2009, 07:15 AM

and more
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/Picture036.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/Picture037.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/Picture038-1.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/Picture039-1.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/Picture044-1.jpg

southrod

16-01-2009, 07:17 AM

http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/Picture045-2.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/Picture047-1.jpg

tonner

16-01-2009, 08:16 AM

RAW454

16-01-2009, 08:20 AM

Ohy my good Lord. That's too cool. )And here's me getting excited about just fitting a billet alternator pulley :D )

Moving on from the drool-generating metalwork & enginebay for a sec, are the wheels 20s? Like 7s & 10s? Was the diff shortened at all? If not, would dearly love to know the backspace on the rims :)

southrod

16-01-2009, 09:53 AM

Hi Southrod

As I have said before awesome work. I have a question for you, can you please tell me what product you use on the panels to allow them to stay bare metal for such a long time?

regards

Greg

We keep the metal clean with a acid wash product called deoxidine then a light degradable oil product such as lanox or inox which is easily washed off with thinners or metho,haveing said that it is our dry climate here that is a blessing.
Shane.

southrod

16-01-2009, 09:55 AM

69camaro

16-01-2009, 10:43 AM

http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/Picture037.jpg

Hey Southrod, the quality of your work looks fantastic. Can I ask, is this Tig or oxy welded?

Nev68

16-01-2009, 11:53 AM

Beautiful work mate.
Old school lines with some modern gear is a great blend.

Rgds,
Nev

southrod

16-01-2009, 12:39 PM

Hey Southrod, the quality of your work looks fantastic. Can I ask, is this Tig or oxy welded?

Tig, a bit messy on this panel,as its so thin so its hard to get a real neat weld.

tonner

16-01-2009, 06:55 PM

We keep the metal clean with a acid wash product called deoxidine then a light degradable oil product such as lanox or inox which is easily washed off with thinners or metho,haveing said that it is our dry climate here that is a blessing.
Shane.

Thanks Shane, this is really helpful as I have a Soda Blasting Company, and a lot of our customers want to leave there cars bare while they are working on them.

southrod

06-02-2009, 04:16 PM

well I've delved into an area that I always stress over, the interior this car the owner wants itr rh drive so the easier way to me was to fab a new dash especially as this car is rapidly turning into a special build.still alot more work to do but i think its looking OK.
Shane.
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/CopyofPicture015.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/CopyofPicture016.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/CopyofPicture018.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/CopyofPicture021.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/CopyofPicture022.jpg

southrod

06-02-2009, 04:20 PM

http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/CopyofPicture026.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/CopyofPicture030.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/CopyofPicture036.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/CopyofPicture040.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/CopyofPicture042.jpg

southrod

06-02-2009, 04:28 PM

http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/CopyofPicture045.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/CopyofPicture047.jpg

cluxford

06-02-2009, 04:49 PM

Shane,

That looks awesome...I love the work you guys do.

Rgds
Chris

tonner

06-02-2009, 04:59 PM

Simply AWSOME :cool:

AUSCAMARO

06-02-2009, 06:22 PM

Commodore shifter, commodore seats.... I'm guessing that there is an LS engine as well?

As above, you guys absolutely ROCK... That is sime real nice work.

Mitch

TUFF68

06-02-2009, 06:26 PM

here ya go Mitch....pic of the engine

http://www.usmuscle.com.au/Forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=1055&d=1227936312

southrod

07-02-2009, 07:43 AM

Commodore shifter, commodore seats.... I'm guessing that there is an LS engine as well?

As above, you guys absolutely ROCK... That is sime real nice work.

Mitch

Actually they are BF Falcon XR8 seats,a lot lower to mount and heaps more comfortable. Shane.

Customcam

07-02-2009, 09:13 AM

Shane how u doin mate
Its Evan, you probbaly dont remeber me ;o)
the man has great skills to say the least ;) Nice Bird

southrod

07-02-2009, 02:59 PM

Shane how u doin mate
Its Evan, you probbaly dont remeber me ;o)
the man has great skills to say the least ;) Nice Bird

Blue 33-34 Roadster.? No.? enlighten me

Customcam

08-02-2009, 11:21 AM

I called you up a couple of years ago we had a chat about suspension and some cars that you were building. it was before the bmw. you sent me some pics of the red shelby with some TT on it, i actually got you confused with southern performance systems, good to see you on here mate,;)

RSZ28

02-05-2009, 01:46 PM

Actually they are BF Falcon XR8 seats,a lot lower to mount and heaps more comfortable. Shane.

Hi Shane,

So these seats are reasonably straightforward to fit? Have been trying to figure out which way to go with seats.

Thanks, Ian

EAT-30T

02-05-2009, 07:19 PM

Love it.. looking insane.. Oh and the metal work ... I love that!!! Big respect here .. :) Takes true skill, talent & patience.. not something we see much of these days.. it's all bog usually .. lol

RSZ28

03-05-2009, 07:46 AM

Love it.. looking insane.. Oh and the metal work ... I love that!!! Big respect here .. :) Takes true skill, talent & patience.. not something we see much of these days.. it's all bog usually .. lol

Ditto on That!:cool:

southrod

04-05-2009, 07:59 AM

Hi Shane,

So these seats are reasonably straightforward to fit? Have been trying to figure out which way to go with seats.

Thanks, Ian

Pretty straight forward,just need to cut the mounts off the tracks of the XR8 seats and fab some new ones up to suit the floorpan in the firebird.

Shane.

*rayman*

06-05-2009, 09:27 AM

Any updates on this car?

southrod

18-05-2009, 08:49 AM

Had a few other projects to deal with lately so hav,nt had a lot of time on the Firebird,but i,ve built the exhaust and setup most of the fuel and brakelines.
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_3271.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_3274.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_3276.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_3315.jpghttp://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_3328.jpg

southrod

18-05-2009, 08:58 AM

http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_3347.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_3391.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_3383.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_3396.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_3411.jpg

southrod

18-05-2009, 09:03 AM

http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_3416.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_3413.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_3413.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_3414.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_3415.jpg

cluxford

18-05-2009, 09:17 AM

wow !

Nev68

18-05-2009, 02:07 PM

Great work Shane.
I suppose not everyone would appreicate an exhaust system but that is a work of art.

Nev

*rayman*

18-05-2009, 02:23 PM

Your quality of work is exceptional, how do you guys work on a job like this? Do you work on an hourly rate, or discuss it at smaller project stages, or complete build cost?

southrod

18-05-2009, 02:59 PM

Your quality of work is exceptional, how do you guys work on a job like this? Do you work on an hourly rate, or discuss it at smaller project stages, or complete build cost?

All our work is by the hour,but having said that we,ve done so many cars that usually if a person wants a ball park figure we can give them an idea on cost from a previous job.
Shane.

WILD68

18-05-2009, 03:27 PM

I have heard that stainless extractors crack, do you have any dramas and also what grade stainless do you use. The car looks amazing you must put a lot of smiles on customers faces..

Cheers

Jamie

southrod

18-05-2009, 05:31 PM

I have heard that stainless extractors crack, do you have any dramas and also what grade stainless do you use. The car looks amazing you must put a lot of smiles on customers faces..

Cheers

Jamie

We,ve never heard of stainless headers or exhaust cracking,at least certainly none of ours, as long as annealed tubeing is used it should not be a problem,maybe if the pipes are ground too fine then that could happen at some of the weld points ,S/S does grow a lot when it gets hot,which is why you must be more generous with clearances,

Shane.

dazzad888

18-05-2009, 05:32 PM

Awsome car!!! 100 times better than new, cant wait to see it finished

Customcam

18-05-2009, 06:07 PM

What are you hourly rates at Shane?

AUSCAMARO

18-05-2009, 10:35 PM

Who cares what the hourly rate is... That is sensational work....

Although, if working to a budget you may wish to know what the hourly rate is ;)

Mitch

Customcam

19-05-2009, 01:37 PM

Mitch can i do business with you?? just wait for the bill u reckon
You should send him yours mate

*rayman*

19-05-2009, 03:55 PM

You just can't do that with these types of cars, you need to know what your spending upfront... If every little exercise blows out on cost, you have a very expensive vehicle at the end of it all.

RSZ28

19-05-2009, 05:52 PM

Yes! Awesome! Wow! Outstanding work and great to see it in Oz vs the USA!

AUSCAMARO

20-05-2009, 12:31 AM

Mitch can i do business with you?? just wait for the bill u reckon
You should send him yours mate

Too right... I wish I had a money tree, I rekon my 68 would be sitting there if I did... :D

southrod

23-05-2009, 01:04 PM

What are you hourly rates at Shane?

Our hourly rates are $80 + gst,there is no way that a shop can give firm quotes on one off custom work, it doesn't work ,the shop either quotes way too much or they dont quote enough then the job gets comprimised to save the quote.i.e you end up with a **** job.
As with most shops in most cases the actual charge out rate of hrs is a lot less than the amount of hrs going into the vehicle,some things you just can't charge for.Its the old saying "Cheap works not good,Good works not cheap".
Got the bird off the hoist(where its been for the last 2 months) I'd forgotten how low this thing is looks sensational on the ground.
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_3473.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_3472.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_3478.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_3481.jpg

AUSCAMARO

23-05-2009, 04:09 PM

Damn that thing is hot...

$80/hour is good, you can't even get ya car serviced ata dealer for that rate these days...

Mitch

RSZ28

24-05-2009, 09:23 AM

Our hourly rates are $80 + gst,there is no way that a shop can give firm quotes on one off custom work, it doesn't work ,the shop either quotes way too much or they dont quote enough then the job gets comprimised to save the quote.i.e you end up with a **** job.
As with most shops in most cases the actual charge out rate of hrs is a lot less than the amount of hrs going into the vehicle,some things you just can't charge for.Its the old saying "Cheap works not good,Good works not cheap".
Got the bird off the hoist(where its been for the last 2 months) I'd forgotten how low this thing is looks sensational on the ground.

http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_3473.jpg

Yes that is an awesome look mate! Looks like you have done a few LS conversions over all :). Way to go. :cool:

Do engineering requirments dictate the need for seats with head rests? I am currently fitting a pair of XR seats and intend to retain the head rests for safety reasons, but was wondering.

$80 an hour is an excellent rate. Especially for talent that can create these masterpieces. You alos gotta pay the "rent", employ people, pay workers comp, insurance, SGL, tools, etc etc. :eek:

Deniliquin must be a great location to run a business like this. Nice and quiet, great weather (well probably a tad hot in the summer) probably lower cost of living, lower cost of doing business, laid back approach to life. :)

In the cities, probably need to pay $120+ an hour for the same talent. And send out a search party to find it.

Here is an example of someone else in a regional location doing interesting customising work....transformation of a VE Commodore sedan into a Coupe 60. Not exactly contemporary muscle car hot rodding or pro touring. But interesting all the same.

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd55/commyvt/Picture891Medium.jpg

http://www.ls1.com.au/forum/showthread.php?t=118162

Cheers all!

southrod

24-05-2009, 09:55 AM

Yes that is an awesome look mate! Looks like you have done a few LS conversions over all :). Way to go. :cool:

Do engineering requirments dictate the need for seats with head rests? I am currently fitting a pair of XR seats and intend to retain the head rests for safety reasons, but was wondering.

$80 an hour is an excellent rate. Especially for talent that can create these masterpieces. You alos gotta pay the "rent", employ people, pay workers comp, insurance, SGL, tools, etc etc. :eek:

Deniliquin must be a great location to run a business like this. Nice and quiet, great weather (well probably a tad hot in the summer) probably lower cost of living, lower cost of doing business, laid back approach to life. :)

In the cities, probably need to pay $120+ an hour for the same talent. And send out a search party to find it.

Here is an example of someone else in a regional location doing interesting customising work....transformation of a VE Commodore sedan into a Coupe 60. Not exactly contemporary muscle car hot rodding or pro touring. But interesting all the same.

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd55/commyvt/Picture891Medium.jpg

http://www.ls1.com.au/forum/showthread.php?t=118162

Cheers all!
Headrests depending on the engineer you use are a requirement if you have backseat passengers but I think that it is a good safety measure,having said that some cars just look plain wrong with headrests.

cluxford

24-05-2009, 11:08 AM

Shane, that bird looks awesome, what size rims and tyres are on the front ?

Customcam

24-05-2009, 01:53 PM

So for Sheetmetal work your charging $80
Whats the + for?
Thanks

southrod

24-05-2009, 02:30 PM

So for Sheetmetal work your charging $80
Whats the + for?
Thanks
as I wrote +gst

Customcam

27-05-2009, 06:55 PM

Ok Shane

Deadwood

05-07-2009, 09:18 PM

Any updates on this build ?
the impala lookin very average after seeing this!

18htan

08-07-2009, 11:23 AM

Shane...

Don't leave us hanging?

How is the progress coming along?

southrod

13-07-2009, 10:12 AM

Shane...

Don't leave us hanging?

How is the progress coming along?

Sorry guys been busy lately finishing up a 57 chev to take to motorex Ill post some more pics nex t week
cheers Shane

18htan

13-07-2009, 12:56 PM

Thanks mate... We all love seeing pics of your work!

TUFF68

13-07-2009, 04:46 PM

Sorry guys been busy lately finishing up a 57 chev to take to motorex Ill post some more pics nex t week
cheers Shane
Would love to a see a build thread on that '57 Shane :D

southrod

27-07-2009, 08:30 AM

Would love to a see a build thread on that '57 Shane :D
I hav'nt posted for a while just so busy theres no time to myself lately ,but here s a couple of pics of the chev,all will be revealed on this car in the (I Think) Oct edition of street machine, it took out the Mequires Superstars for 2009 ( the third one for us).

http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/project%20newair/Picture960.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/project%20newair/Picture936.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/project%20newair/Picture1694.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/project%20newair/Picture1686.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/project%20newair/Picture1678.jpg

southrod

27-07-2009, 08:32 AM

http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/project%20newair/Picture1661.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/project%20newair/Picture1614.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/project%20newair/Picture1499.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/project%20newair/Picture1518.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/project%20newair/Picture1518.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/project%20newair/Picture1538.jpg

southrod

27-07-2009, 08:34 AM

http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/project%20newair/Picture1492.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/project%20newair/Picture1450.jpg

RAW454

27-07-2009, 10:17 AM

Wow. Just stunning. Huge congrats to all involved.

18htan

27-07-2009, 11:39 AM

S**T!

That is a work of art!

So Shane, do you have room for my 63 Belair?

AUSCAMARO

27-07-2009, 12:28 PM

It looks like a die cast model.... Too perfect!

southrod

27-07-2009, 12:36 PM

It looks like a die cast model.... Too perfect!

LOL! I like that, never thought of it that way.

Nev68

27-07-2009, 02:17 PM

I'll keep it simple.
Well done, a beautiful car.

Nev

TUFF68

27-07-2009, 02:33 PM

That looks awesome Shane, i've just drooled all over my keyboard. Anyone else spot the subtle mod to the front of the hood. The hood bar is now seperated from the hood and is 1 piece instead of 3, nice;)

J.J.

27-07-2009, 04:03 PM

Wow!!!

cluxford

27-07-2009, 05:05 PM

Shane, outstanding work, not a huge fan of 57's but that is just gorgeous. Congrats to you and your team for another wicked car

EAT-30T

27-07-2009, 05:46 PM

**picks jaw up off ground**

that 57 is AMAZING!!!

AUSCAMARO

14-08-2009, 06:15 AM

Updates, updates, updates!! :D

christian

25-08-2009, 09:49 AM

its good to see that WA has talent like this.
The only thing in common the bird has with mine is the original colour!
Are you guys going to the burswood show this w/end
Chris

69camaro

25-08-2009, 09:59 AM

its good to see that WA has talent like this.
The only thing in common the bird has with mine is the original colour!
Are you guys going to the burswood show this w/end
Chris

If you're referring to Southrod... you've got your states mixed up, they aren't in WA. :)

AUSCAMARO

25-08-2009, 10:58 AM

If you're referring to Southrod... you've got your states mixed up, they aren't in WA. :)

But they are in AUS ;)

Sorry Christian, I might not have explained myself when I told you to jump on the site. It's an Aussie wide site with state sections for get togethers and shows etc...

Mitch

christian

25-08-2009, 11:11 PM

Must have read it wrong
Still,amazing work

69camaro

26-08-2009, 11:03 AM

Must have read it wrong
Still,amazing work

That it is. :D

southrod

27-08-2009, 09:16 AM

Been a while since the last update,Iv,ve been busy sorting out and fabbing up all the interior pieces,sound system,door trims and armrests,a few small thing to go and we can get it over to the paintshop. Shane.
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_3502.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_3523.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_3520.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_3528.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_3534.jpg

southrod

27-08-2009, 09:52 AM

http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_3543.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_3546.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_3547.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_3550.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_3549.jpg

southrod

27-08-2009, 09:55 AM

http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_4303.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_4314.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_4315.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_4319.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_4322.jpg

18htan

27-08-2009, 10:24 AM

I take it he is into classical music!

:eek:

ProHawk

27-08-2009, 11:05 AM

Looks good Shane, however, I'm curious how your favorite Bluegrass, Deep South, Banjo music sounds playing on that system ?

southrod

27-08-2009, 11:14 AM

Looks good Shane, however, I'm curious how your favorite Bluegrass, Deep South, Banjo music sounds playing on that system ?
Don't know how bluegrass bango music sounds,but heavy Rap sounds good.
By the way I like your avatar (hmmm I wonder were that came from).

southrod

27-08-2009, 11:18 AM

http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_4278.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_4276.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_4280.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_4283.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_4285.jpg

southrod

27-08-2009, 11:19 AM

http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_4287.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_4286.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_4289.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_4290.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_4297.jpg

southrod

27-08-2009, 11:22 AM

http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_4300.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_4272.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_4270.jpg

tonner

27-08-2009, 12:43 PM

Sweet work as usual.

Greg

18htan

27-08-2009, 01:07 PM

I would hate to know the final cost on this build!

AUSCAMARO

27-08-2009, 01:23 PM

Where did you end up locating the batteries in that boot Shane? and what have you used for the kick panels? Is it just body filler or another product?

Cheers

Mitch

Sfinx

27-08-2009, 08:53 PM

How much extra do they end up weighing after all that sheet metal used in locations where normally it's plastic and other light weight materials?

southrod

28-08-2009, 08:43 AM

I would hate to know the final cost on this build!

As the owner says ,best not to know.

southrod

28-08-2009, 08:52 AM

Where did you end up locating the batteries in that boot Shane? and what have you used for the kick panels? Is it just body filler or another product?

Cheers

Mitch

The batteries are in the sides of the quarter panels,we use a fibre glass filler material called fibrefil it is a lot lighter than using body filler,everything that is bare alloy including the the door trims dash and boot area will be covered in black leather
Shane.

cluxford

28-08-2009, 09:00 AM

Shane, exceptional as usual.

I'm so glad you post to this site so we get to see you and your teams handywork.

Thanks

southrod

28-08-2009, 09:01 AM

How much extra do they end up weighing after all that sheet metal used in locations where normally it's plastic and other light weight materials?

They usually come out about the same if not lighter in this case because of the use of alloy for all the trims and dash etc,in fact the dash only weighs 10kg and thats with the gauges,

Shane.

RAW454

28-08-2009, 11:01 AM

I'm so glad you post to this site so we get to see you and your teams handywork. Thanks
Amen to that. :cool:

Deadwood

29-08-2009, 10:57 AM

They usually come out about the same if not lighter in this case because of the use of alloy for all the trims and dash etc,in fact the dash only weighs 10kg and thats with the gauges,

Shane.

How many guys you got working at the shop. You seem to get a fair bit done pretty quickly!

southrod

29-08-2009, 11:07 AM

How many guys you got working at the shop. You seem to get a fair bit done pretty quickly!

The last few months has been a bit hard as we were down to just me and one other (read that as 80 hr weeks),we lost a mechanic and a body guy to the mining industry,weve just in the last week put another body guy and a mechanic on hopefully they will work out OK.

Sfinx

29-08-2009, 12:25 PM

The batteries are in the sides of the quarter panels,we use a fibre glass filler material called fibrefil it is a lot lighter than using body filler,everything that is bare alloy including the the door trims dash and boot area will be covered in black leather
Shane.

If it's being covered in leather what is gained by using alloy vs. other materials for your door trims and boot fabriction?

Awesome work by the way, this is a really top build.

southrod

29-08-2009, 01:03 PM

If it's being covered in leather what is gained by using alloy vs. other materials for your door trims and boot fabriction?

Awesome work by the way, this is a really top build.

Its just a medium that i like to work in,and its lightweight,being that I have built over the years a lot of alloy bodied race cars etc Im quick at shaping things from alloy and the finish that I get is almost paint ready so very little filler work or smoothing is needed as opposed to laminating up fibreglass or other composite materials were you have a lot of finish work to get the part smooth for final finishing.
Shane.

Sfinx

29-08-2009, 03:42 PM

Well it definitley shows that you've got great ability with it, amazing work.

Thanks for taking the time to answer the questions as well.

Cheers,
Gav

69camaro

30-09-2009, 11:40 PM

We keep the metal clean with a acid wash product called deoxidine then a light degradable oil product such as lanox or inox which is easily washed off with thinners or metho,haveing said that it is our dry climate here that is a blessing.
Shane.

Hey Shane, where do you get the 'Deoxidine' and 'Lanox' etc. I've tried a few auto paint suppliers and all I get is 'Nah mate, you need to prime it... can't leave it bare metal...prime it'

southrod

01-10-2009, 08:50 AM

Hey Shane, where do you get the 'Deoxidine' and 'Lanox' etc. I've tried a few auto paint suppliers and all I get is 'Nah mate, you need to prime it... can't leave it bare metal...prime it'

PPG make the deoxidine 624,product code 978.10007.5L that is the 5 litre code you probably only need to buy it in litres.(not cheap)
the inox range of products can be had at most bearing bolt and or ag suppliers
http://www.inox-mx3.com/inox.htm
Shane.

RSZ28

01-10-2009, 08:53 AM

Hey Shane, where do you get the 'Deoxidine' and 'Lanox' etc. I've tried a few auto paint suppliers and all I get is 'Nah mate, you need to prime it... can't leave it bare metal...prime it'

You did ask Shane, so apols for butting in, but things like Lanox are commonly available from boat shops (Whitworths for example). These lanoline based preservatives see a lot of use in the boating industry.

Have used another one called Lanoguard to spray/rub in on all surface corrosion in my 68 until we get to strip and paint time.

If it works in salt water...:)

FWIW.

southrod

01-10-2009, 09:38 AM

We got the rest of the gaps finalised on the Bird last week and got it into the paint shop for prep and epoxy priming,hopefully towards the end of the month we'll get the what filler work and smoothing that needs to be done,out of the way and get the outside into poly primer,then its back to the fab shop for a few small items that need finishing then its ready for teardown and paint hopefully by Xmas.
Shane.
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_4565.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_4566.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_4611.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_4613.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_4614.jpg

southrod

01-10-2009, 09:40 AM

http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_4615.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_4616.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_4627.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_4628.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_4631.jpg

AUSCAMARO

01-10-2009, 10:48 AM

I wish you could just clear coat the bare metal!!

J.J.

01-10-2009, 12:16 PM

I wish you could just clear coat the bare metal!!

its the best colour isn't it

18htan

01-10-2009, 02:56 PM

Great to see the bird coming along.

I can't wait to see the end result.

dazzad888

13-01-2010, 10:57 PM

Man i love this car! Its a shame to put paint on it, but it looks awsome!!!
Any jobs going? Ill clean the ****ers. Nice work guys

70mach1

14-01-2010, 08:36 PM

nice car,tough stance-.Thought you might like to see my cuz's 67 with 455 and TH700-bought on the same day as my Mach1-his got here 2 months earlier though.

http://i116.photobucket.com/albums/o37/d12_album/000_0484.jpg

http://i116.photobucket.com/albums/o37/d12_album/000_0488.jpg

http://i116.photobucket.com/albums/o37/d12_album/000_0487.jpg

http://i116.photobucket.com/albums/o37/d12_album/S5000151.jpg

and a similar car seen locally

http://i116.photobucket.com/albums/o37/d12_album/f3.jpg

http://i116.photobucket.com/albums/o37/d12_album/f2.jpg

AUSCAMARO

15-01-2010, 02:54 PM

Nice rims... Kinda look like modern versions of the orignals.

christian

15-01-2010, 07:10 PM

Firebirds are so much more sexier than camaros..
( I am putting my fire suit on as i am typing this)
Bring it on !!!

69SS

15-01-2010, 07:37 PM

Firebirds are so much more sexier than camaros..
( I am putting my fire suit on as i am typing this)
Bring it on !!!

Ha ha... dream on :D

oldschool67

15-01-2010, 07:37 PM

Firebirds are so much more sexier than camaros..
( I am putting my fire suit on as i am typing this)
Bring it on !!!

Yup... but that's only a girls opinion. Here we go :D

67 rs Rhodesy

15-01-2010, 09:02 PM

wow friggen amazing wish i had the dollars and the skill to pull of a masterpiece like this!

christian

16-01-2010, 11:44 AM

Girls car ,with a factory 400 ,bigger than any camaro donk and more hp too

southrod

03-02-2010, 09:05 AM

Finally getting close to final paint,we've done all the underside in raptor liner and smoothed and painted the engine and trans,in the paint booth today with the body
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_5448.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_5458.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_5463.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_5465.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_5466.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_5467.jpg

southrod

03-02-2010, 09:07 AM

http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_5469.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_5471.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_5473.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_5474.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_5476.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_5478.jpg

southrod

03-02-2010, 09:11 AM

http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_5579.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_5580.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_5581.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_5582.jpg

AUSCAMARO

04-02-2010, 03:34 AM

Bit surprised that the underside hasn't been completely smoothed out. The rest of the car is going to be heavily modded isn't it Shane?

southrod

04-02-2010, 06:52 AM

Bit surprised that the underside hasn't been completely smoothed out. The rest of the car is going to be heavily modded isn't it Shane?
This is a driver,not a show car,the owner wants to be able pound on it as hard as he likes without having to worry about stone chips etc.
out of the 5 pro tourers we are building at the moment,the coronet will be the only one not done like this.

cluxford

04-02-2010, 07:08 AM

yeah I am doing the same, was thinking smoothed and painted, but it just means it won't get driven...and that ain't why I am building mine.

Can't wait to see this bird on the road

christian

04-02-2010, 08:39 AM

Hi Shane
Great work and very inspiring.
Can you tell me how the rotisserie arm is bolted to the rear of the car?
Is there a piece of steel running across the tail panel and bolted to the bumper holes or is there 2 separate steel pieces that come out from the rotisserie and bolt to the bumper holes?
Thanx
Chris

qik66

04-02-2010, 08:53 AM

Shane, raptor liner? is that the stuff they spray in the back of utes

southrod

04-02-2010, 12:36 PM

southrod

04-02-2010, 12:40 PM

Shane, raptor liner? is that the stuff they spray in the back of utes

Thats the stuff,lots of different types around we just like the raptor because of the way its packed in 4 separate bottles that you just add the hardner to and shake then screw it on to a normal bodyshutz gun.

GM064

04-02-2010, 04:18 PM

Thats the stuff,lots of different types around we just like the raptor because of the way its packed in 4 separate bottles that you just add the hardner to and shake then screw it on to a normal bodyshutz gun.

Shane,

Does the finished product have a shine as in the photos, or is it still wet? Also does it come in different textures? I will be spraying the floors of my Malibu once the bodywork is done, but as with others on the site I want to drive it and not worry about stone chips etc. Lastly does it offer some sort of sound deadening properties? It looks as though it may as it looks quite thick.

As with all of your other cars, this looks to be outstanding:)

Cheers

Greg
GM064.

southrod

04-02-2010, 04:34 PM

Shane,

Does the finished product have a shine as in the photos, or is it still wet? Also does it come in different textures? I will be spraying the floors of my Malibu once the bodywork is done, but as with others on the site I want to drive it and not worry about stone chips etc. Lastly does it offer some sort of sound deadening properties? It looks as though it may as it looks quite thick.

As with all of your other cars, this looks to be outstanding:)

Cheers

Greg
GM064.

It does'nt have a shine once dry,what we do is spray a coat of 2K black over it which makes it easy to clean,just make sure you do it before the raptor has cured otherwise it will not bite in,It certainly would have some sort of sound deadening properties but you cant beat dynamat on the inside to quell vibrations and noise.
Shane.

southrod

07-02-2010, 09:08 AM

Been a long week masking ,unmasking and masking some more.we had a film crew here during the week doing a start to a series of visits to the shop .showcasing what we do. so we had to work around them as well.
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_5588.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_5591.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_5592.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_5594.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_5597.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_5606.jpg

southrod

07-02-2010, 09:11 AM

http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_5607.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_5613.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_5614.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_5621.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_5623.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_5626.jpg

southrod

07-02-2010, 09:13 AM

http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_5633.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_5632.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_5635.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_5643.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_5641.jpg

69SS

11-02-2010, 02:43 PM

whoa Shane, thats sic. :)

tim

01-03-2010, 09:07 PM

yeah I am doing the same, was thinking smoothed and painted, but it just means it won't get driven...and that ain't why I am building mine.

Can't wait to see this bird on the road

hey chris
shane is doing the firebird for us.....just joined so this is my first post....would have liked the underneath painted and cleaned but would feel very guilty when belting it and making a mess underneath

69SS

02-03-2010, 12:19 AM

hey chris
shane is doing the firebird for us.....just joined so this is my first post....would have liked the underneath painted and cleaned but would feel very guilty when belting it and making a mess underneath

Welcome Tim. You are one lucky lucky fella, this is going to be one helava poncho, I am super jealous :D. Would love to have Shane build me a machine.

southrod

02-03-2010, 06:33 AM

chevguy

02-03-2010, 07:05 AM

Heya Tim, bloody nice rig. Shane said he would do my car as well and tack it to your bill :) I agree about underneath, up top is for showing underneath is for going:D

tim

02-03-2010, 01:36 PM

thanks for the welcome gentlemen
one the reasons for joining the forum is that shane chats with you guys more than he does with me.....you get more photos than i do..looks like true love
chevguy...i think you must have already tacked onto my bill...i knew wendy was hiding something from me

king05

09-03-2010, 09:45 PM

this is going to be f8ckin awsome! Tim you are one lucky bugger:D

6t8

09-03-2010, 10:10 PM

http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/CopyofPicture045.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/CopyofPicture047.jpg

Gday Shane , what brand steering wheel is that please ?

Barry...

S[_]SPECT

10-03-2010, 01:26 AM

Im guessing Flaming River..
http://www.flamingriver.com/index.cfm/page/ptype=product/product_id=272/category_id=122/home_id=82/mode=prod/prd272.htm

6t8

10-03-2010, 02:34 PM

SPECT;34721']Im guessing Flaming River..
http://www.flamingriver.com/index.cfm/page/ptype=product/product_id=272/category_id=122/home_id=82/mode=prod/prd272.htm

Thats the one , thanks Birchy.

chevval

10-03-2010, 07:09 PM

I like, I like alot!!!!!

southrod

19-03-2010, 07:56 AM

Well we've been a bit busy on Tims other car,but we've got the Firebirds body sliced and buffed,the subframes been powdercoated and fitted and hopefully this weekend Ill get the engine and trans in.
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_6028.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_6030.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_6032.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_6034.jpg

---------- Post added at 07:56 AM ---------- Previous post was at 07:54 AM ----------

http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_6035.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_6036.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_6037.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_6038.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_6039.jpghttp://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_6041.jpg

Twisted67

19-03-2010, 09:59 PM

Lookin real Niiiiiice there Shane as always with all the work you do.:D:D:D
Is that S.A's. BMW ute in the background??

Paul

RAW454

19-03-2010, 10:26 PM

Is that S.A's. BMW ute in the background??
Yep - http://jalopnik.com/5060168/stuart-applebys-bmw-m5-ute-now-in-full-detail ;)

southrod

04-08-2010, 09:58 AM

Latest round of assembly,been off this for awhile as weve been flat out finishing the Green slamback (see the post in general pics).
Tims been real patient on this one but good things take time.
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_6908.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_6909.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_6915.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_6922.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_6925.jpg

---------- Post added at 08:57 AM ---------- Previous post was at 08:56 AM ----------

http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_6928.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_6945.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_6946.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_6950.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_6953.jpg

---------- Post added at 08:58 AM ---------- Previous post was at 08:57 AM ----------

http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_6959.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_6960.jpghttp://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_6961.jpg

Nev68

04-08-2010, 02:08 PM

Bloody beautiful work, as usual.:D
Tricky looking rear end too

*rayman*

04-08-2010, 04:53 PM

http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_6959.jpg

It's looking very nice.

Puzzled??? Is that enough surface area for the belt to run over and spin the pulley on the alternator? No belt slippage problems with that?

southrod

05-08-2010, 08:41 AM

It's looking very nice.

Puzzled??? Is that enough surface area for the belt to run over and spin the pulley on the alternator? No belt slippage problems with that?

Lets hope so,not really the ideal situation,but there is a lot of tension on the belt,we wont really know till we fire it up.
Shane.

S[_]SPECT

05-08-2010, 06:19 PM

Shane,
Is that an idler puller below it to the left...
Looks like the belt should at least be on the other side of that pulley..

Edit:
Although by the looks of it, it then might interfere with the lower water neck, that isnt attached in that pic..
Going back to page 4, when the belt wasnt including the blower.. it took a different path.. around that spot
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_3473.jpg

---------- Post added at 03:19 PM ---------- Previous post was at 02:50 PM ----------

Old post, I know..
But I was wondering if that is alloy or steel you're using there Shane.?
Im not entirely keen on cutting up guages to fit the dash, so I was considering having a go at making one... seeing this has inspired me further..

well I've delved into an area that I always stress over, the interior this car the owner wants itr rh drive so the easier way to me was to fab a new dash especially as this car is rapidly turning into a special build.still alot more work to do but i think its looking OK.
Shane.
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/CopyofPicture015.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/CopyofPicture016.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/CopyofPicture018.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/CopyofPicture021.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/CopyofPicture022.jpg

69SS

05-08-2010, 09:17 PM

Looking amazing Shane..... Would love to see one of your rides over here in westoz..

RSZ28

06-08-2010, 08:32 PM

Finally getting close to final paint,we've done all the underside in raptor liner and smoothed and painted the engine and trans,in the paint booth today with the body
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/67%20firebird%20convert/DSC_5467.jpg

Any reason the tunnel is opened up? Normally a 4L60/65 fits fine behind an LS in a Camaro/Firebird tunnel fine.

Beautiful car by the way. You all there at Southrod are doing top class work. May have to give you a call re the paint I need to get done on my 68 eventually.

And Ford seats again. Excellent choice. I owe you a case of ale on that piece of advice.

southrod

07-08-2010, 09:34 AM

Any reason the tunnel is opened up? Normally a 4L60/65 fits fine behind an LS in a Camaro/Firebird tunnel fine.

Beautiful car by the way. You all there at Southrod are doing top class work. May have to give you a call re the paint I need to get done on my 68 eventually.

And Ford seats again. Excellent choice. I owe you a case of ale on that piece of advice.

The tunnel had been butchered pre us getting the car hence the new one and i wanted a nice even round tunnel .
Oh and free beer, we love free beer.!
Shane.

---------- Post added at 08:34 AM ---------- Previous post was at 08:32 AM ----------

SPECT;43379']Shane,
Is that an idler puller below it to the left...
Looks like the belt should at least be on the other side of that pulley..

Edit:
Although by the looks of it, it then might interfere with the lower water neck, that isnt attached in that pic..
Going back to page 4, when the belt wasnt including the blower.. it took a different path.. around that spot
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr282/southrod/DSC_3473.jpg

---------- Post added at 03:19 PM ---------- Previous post was at 02:50 PM ----------

Old post, I know..
But I was wondering if that is alloy or steel you're using there Shane.?
Im not entirely keen on cutting up guages to fit the dash, so I was considering having a go at making one... seeing this has inspired me further..

3mm 5005 aluminum,easy to use and weld etc.
shane.