Nate's 63 Belair [Archive]

18htan

13-07-2009, 03:23 PM

Well after reading through a heap of build ups, I thought I would join the fun :D

Although my photos may not be as detailed, and I am not dropping any where the sort of coin a few of you are...

Anyway, have a look at a few pics so far.

I bought the big girl in Sydney, this is me driving it home after it was shipped down
http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/Chev/Chev001.jpg

Once I got home
http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/Chev/Chev002.jpg
http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/Chev/Chev004.jpg

It didn't really fit in my apartment carpark too well.
http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/Chev/Chev005.jpg

Then I drove it 3 hours to my brothers farm, so I could store it and then start working on it in the bush.

Gathering dust... Note the chooks for authentic country feel.
http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/Chev/Chev006.jpg

18htan

13-07-2009, 03:26 PM

It wasn't registered in Vic, so we thought we would get the rego then do the rebuild.

Next was giving the front end a tidy up... New bushes and Disk Brakes

http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/Chev/Chev007.jpg
http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/Chev/Chev008.jpg
http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/Chev/Chev009.jpg
http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/Chev/Chev011.jpg

18htan

13-07-2009, 03:31 PM

http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/Chev/Chev012.jpg

All it needed for a roadworthy, was a new windscreen, better brakes, orange indicators on the front, no rust bubbles and some wiper blades.

We sanded back the rust, and bogged and primed. We just did a dodgy for the roadworthy as I am going to get all the rust cut.

Here it is registered in its new shed.
http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/Chev/Chev014.jpg
http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/Chev/Chev015.jpg

WILD68

13-07-2009, 03:32 PM

Nice one Nate.. whats next? Bagged 20's???

18htan

13-07-2009, 03:36 PM

Started to pull the front end apart to replace the tired 350 and powerglide, with a LS1 and 4L60E

http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/Chev/Chev016.jpg
http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/Chev/Chev019.jpg
http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/Chev/Chev018.jpg

The exhaust wouldn't play ball...
http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/Chev/Chev020.jpg

18htan

13-07-2009, 03:38 PM

Out with the 350 and glide...

Note the high tech engine crane
http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/Chev/Chev021.jpg
http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/Chev/Chev022.jpg
http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/Chev/Chev023.jpg

18htan

13-07-2009, 03:42 PM

Got an LS1 and 4L60E out of a VX Ute with 40,000km...

http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/Chev/Chev024.jpg

Making some engine mount adapter plates
http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/Chev/Chev025.jpg

They pushed the engine back so we could use the standard Chev mounts
http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/Chev/Chev026.jpg
http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/Chev/Chev027.jpg
http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/Chev/Chev028.jpg

18htan

13-07-2009, 03:47 PM

I think I have gone down the same path as everybody else... And changed my damn mind.

Anybody want an LS1 and 4L60E? :D

Decided to go back down the old school path, with either 383 stroker or a Big Block. The stroker will bolt straight it, where as the big block will be a bit of messing about.

So while I am unsure what to do on that front... I made sure the shed would be warm, and started stripping it back for a soda blast.

Winter in the shed... No worries!
http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/Chev/Chev029.jpg
http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/Chev/Chev030.jpg

18htan

13-07-2009, 03:49 PM

The floor was great... Just a little bit of surface rust.

http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/Chev/Chev031.jpg
http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/Chev/Chev032.jpg
http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/Chev/Chev033.jpg
http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/Chev/Chev034.jpg

18htan

13-07-2009, 03:52 PM

I have scored some free storage in Ringwood for 8 - 12 months, so the next step is to bring it back to Melbourne for a soda blast and then panel and paint.

I am thinking of Mercedes Silver.

18htan

13-07-2009, 03:53 PM

Nice one Nate.. whats next? Bagged 20's???

I am not pimp enough to bag it mate, and no 20's.

Sorry to disappoint :D

67SS502

13-07-2009, 05:53 PM

What happened to LS1 and 4L60E? why did you give up on it? love to hear all the details?

AUSCAMARO

13-07-2009, 07:24 PM

I rekon the LS1 is the way to go Nate. Wishing I didn't give mine to my mate now..

Mitch

Nev68

13-07-2009, 07:39 PM

I reckon that is an LS1 excellent choice of engine transplant.
New age donk in an old skool body.
Wish I could do it and keep mine LHD.
I couldn't so I went the stroker

I liked your engine lifter .:D

Nev

454 NUTTR

13-07-2009, 09:40 PM

old skool any day LS1 save it for the greenie's nice project

18htan

14-07-2009, 10:34 AM

I liked your engine lifter .:D
Nev

Hey Nev... My Brother would put his little girl to bed using that bobcat if he could... :D

As for dropping the LS1 idea...

I wanted an injected engine, and the LS1 is an easy choice. However I would have to meet the emission standards of the LS1, not to mention the computer issues I could see me having. All of a sudden its not such an easy swap.

Any SBC just drops straight in, no issues with mounts, plenty of room etc.

This might be a weird reason... I was overtaken at speed by a bogun in a VX SS, and yes it sounded mad a full noise... But seriously guys... This is a 63 Chev, I don't want it sounding like a bloody Commodore!

Also the said bogun had bloody Chev badges on his car and that really pisses me off! :D

So old school it is!

Nev68

14-07-2009, 03:56 PM

Hey Nev... My Brother would put his little girl to bed using that bobcat if he could... :D

As for dropping the LS1 idea...

I wanted an injected engine, and the LS1 is an easy choice. However I would have to meet the emission standards of the LS1, not to mention the computer issues I could see me having. All of a sudden its not such an easy swap.

Any SBC just drops straight in, no issues with mounts, plenty of room etc.

This might be a weird reason... I was overtaken at speed by a bogun in a VX SS, and yes it sounded mad a full noise... But seriously guys... This is a 63 Chev, I don't want it sounding like a bloody Commodore!

Also the said bogun had bloody Chev badges on his car and that really pisses me off! :D

So old school it is!

I see your point regarding the old skool small block, but I would like to be able to go out turn the key and not worry so much about carb tune, timing etc.
I love my Camaro, but I would like it to be more like my Calais as far as the engine & trans goes.
I think new age computer and electronics have revolutionised our hobby/addiction.

Nev

*rayman*

14-07-2009, 04:35 PM

So whats happening with the ls1 and trans? You still have them?

18htan

14-07-2009, 06:00 PM

I see your point regarding the old skool small block, but I would like to be able to go out turn the key and not worry so much about carb tune, timing etc.
I love my Camaro, but I would like it to be more like my Calais as far as the engine & trans goes.
I think new age computer and electronics have revolutionised our hobby/addiction.

Nev

I am thinking of running a crate motor, so I am expecting a fair bit of turn key, also I still might run injection.

Would be so much easier to run an injected 350 as opposed to an LS1.

18htan

14-07-2009, 06:07 PM

So whats happening with the ls1 and trans? You still have them?

Hey Ray...

Still got the LS1 and the 4L60E, sitting in storage.

Thinking of selling it, or using it. Its just sitting there with all the other motors that don't have a home :D

Cheers
Nate

Deadwood

16-07-2009, 11:21 AM

Hey Ray...

Still got the LS1 and the 4L60E, sitting in storage.

Thinking of selling it, or using it. Its just sitting there with all the other motors that don't have a home :D

Cheers
Nate

You cant beat a big block , Im putting the 454 back in mine hasnt been fired for a few years, just a coat of paint and tidy up . If I have any issues with it I'll pull it out and chuck in a 572 ....... i wish

18htan

20-07-2009, 11:19 AM

You cant beat a big block , Im putting the 454 back in mine hasnt been fired for a few years, just a coat of paint and tidy up . If I have any issues with it I'll pull it out and chuck in a 572 ....... i wish

I love Big Blocks, but am still leaning to the easy side of a Small Block.

Bolts straight in... Don't have to move anything, and its east to deal with Vic Roads.

18htan

09-09-2009, 11:51 AM

Well I finally got it moved back to Melbourne.

Sorry about the pics, it was 6.30 in the morning. Its a big old girl to tow.

Now its in a storage unit in Ringwood. Time to get the ball rolling.

http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/Chev/Chev0035.jpg
http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/Chev/Chev0036.jpg

Nev68

09-09-2009, 09:10 PM

Well I finally got it moved back to Melbourne.

Sorry about the pics, it was 6.30 in the morning. Its a big old girl to tow.

Now its in a storage unit in Ringwood. Time to get the ball rolling.

Good to see you are about to get into it.
Keep up the motivation.

What's the plan for the next step?

18htan

09-09-2009, 09:55 PM

Nev68

09-09-2009, 10:24 PM

Hey Nev...

I am still a bit unsure. But I am leaning towards getting all the rust fixed and then a respray.

Now I need to find someone to do the work.

I always hate how all you guys know exactly what you want, and when you want it. I feel somewhat lost, but I am sure i will get there.

I reckon the best thing I did was just sit down for a while and plan things out.
That way you don't have to pull things apart 2 or 3 times and I think it costs less in the long run.
I don't think it hurts to look at other people's cars for ideas either, unless you have great vision. I don't have great vision and I'm not brave enough (or rich enough) to try radical mods and I just like cars looking close to how they left the factory.
Anyway, keep us up to date with progress pics.

454 NUTTR

10-09-2009, 08:59 AM

Step (one) Mail your cheque book to me ill get the ball rolling he he. Looks to be a top project good luck

WILD68

10-09-2009, 03:43 PM

Its hard to make a decision and stick by it.. if ya just start the ball rolling everything should fall in to place. Credit Cards help:D or not:mad:

USA-69Z

10-09-2009, 03:51 PM

just some nice paint and drop it on those rallys i can see in the pics with the white walls would be a cool cruiser

Gav

18htan

14-10-2009, 11:27 PM

68Camaro

14-10-2009, 11:33 PM

Id suggest soda blast as its better all round. Secondly if your planning to drive it semi-often put on some underbody deadener. It will sound like a dam drum if you dont lol. It can be done to still make it nice. Guess it depends if your making a trailer queen.

13k is not bad for costs as long as you hold the final payment and only pay on customer acceptance.

Does it include reassembly after paint?

Just my 2c worth

68Camaro

14-10-2009, 11:38 PM

Oh motor wise. Get a 427 small block and have the best of all worlds.

http://www.proformanceunlimited.com/specs/427_sbc_550.html

http://www.proformanceunlimited.com/specs/P9010673_l.png

Hmm yummi. Dart blocks = Sic = Sound = LUST!!!

USA-69Z

14-10-2009, 11:41 PM

Nate , its really up to what you think... if thats within your budget and the paint guys makes you feel confident in his aproach id say go for it. Seems a fair price to me. I like the colour choice you have.
stay motivated !

Gavo

18htan

15-10-2009, 08:46 AM

Gav... Whats a budget?

This is a quote from the bloke UNRULY recommended.

67cammy

15-10-2009, 10:37 AM

Had a rough quote of 13k for panel and paint.

Body off, whack it on a rotisserie, bead blast, underbody repainted black, then full respray silver/grey.

What are your thoughts on that?

Couldn't start until the end of Jan.

Nate, Grab it! For body and paint that is a steal. It's not hard to spend double that. Looking forwaed to seeing some colour on there

Nev68

15-10-2009, 01:10 PM

Had a rough quote of 13k for panel and paint.

Body off, whack it on a rotisserie, bead blast, underbody repainted black, then full respray silver/grey.

What are your thoughts on that?

Couldn't start until the end of Jan.

Have seen examples of the body work of other customers before any paint is applied?
If he does good work $13K for paint and bodywork doesn;t sound too bad.

18htan

15-10-2009, 01:29 PM

I am heading away for a couple of weeks.

So I see my next step is to view some of the work he has done, and check out his shop.

Get a firm written quote, with an outline of the timeframe.

Still he is the only shop that has looked at it. Everyone else isn't to keen.

Nev68

15-10-2009, 06:11 PM

Still he is the only shop that has looked at it. Everyone else isn't to keen.

I know how you feel, I similar problems, but it pays to wait for someone who is going to do a god job.

RAW454

16-10-2009, 03:41 PM

Still he is the only shop that has looked at it. Everyone else isn't to keen.
Nate, have you tired these guys at all?

Old School Restorations
9460 1956
45 Radford Rd, Reservoir
Ivan D'Angelo; 0437 703 285

I was given their contact in regard to rust repairs & respray... Meant to be pretty good . Not checked out myself though.

18htan

16-10-2009, 04:07 PM

Hey Deano...

Thanks mate. Will chase them when I get back and let you know I go.

18htan

25-02-2010, 08:05 PM

Starting to get it fully stripped now.

Just got to get the doors off and gutted, finish pulling the dash out then truck it out to Chris at Yarra Valley Blasting (http://www.yvblastclean.com.au/index.html)

The truth will be revealed about how much rust is really hiding under 47 years of paint... :o

This is where you all wish me luck! :p

jaywildone57

25-02-2010, 08:40 PM

Good to see it under way Nate, I dated a 47 year old woman a long time ago, she was sagging in the front end but she had no rust. You could be lucky too.:p

18htan

25-02-2010, 10:01 PM

Hmmm

Well mine isn't sagging but it has some rust. Bugger!

18htan

27-04-2010, 10:03 PM

So I guess you could say the ball is rolling...

I have had the doors and all hanging panels bead blsted. Came up pretty good... found the usual surprise's.

The back doors that we thought were perfect, are still in great shape. However the back left has a lead repair and the back right had a real bad bog patch over a dint.

Will sort some pics out of the blasting over the weekend.

Moved the Chev to my brothers on Saturday... Of course is pissed with rain, so me and the old man got creative with the shrink wrap... Handy when you work for a storage company :D

http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/IMG00197-20100424-1233.jpg

---------- Post added at 09:03 PM ---------- Previous post was at 08:26 PM ----------

Got the floor all sorted on the weekend.

Its solid, and in great condition after 47 years.

Gave it a once over with the wire wheel on the angle grinder

http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/IMG00205-20100425-1300.jpg

I used KBS and was really impressed with it. Was very easy to work with and the end result was great.

http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/IMG00210-20100426-1527.jpg

The spot light reflects weirdly on the gloss...

AUSCAMARO

28-04-2010, 04:29 AM

looking good Nate... That KBS makes a massive difference!

MrBlonde

29-04-2010, 06:56 PM

Good to see progress on the full size!

cluxford

29-04-2010, 10:59 PM

Nate, it sure is a good feeling when you strip it down and there is little to no rust

18htan

29-06-2010, 01:12 AM

Split the old girl in half...

http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/Chev/IMG00204-20100425-1204-1.jpg
http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/Chev/IMG00051-20100611-1816.jpg
http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/Chev/IMG00055-20100611-1828.jpg

47 years of dirt and grease.

http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/Chev/IMG00058-20100611-1830.jpg

Spent a day grinding and scrubbing before getting stuck into the underbody with KBS Rustseal...

http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/Chev/IMG00074-20100614-1348.jpg
http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/Chev/IMG00072-20100614-1348.jpg

Its glossy at the moment, still have another coat to go, which is a saturn.

---------- Post added 29-06-2010 at 12:12 AM ---------- Previous post was 28-06-2010 at 11:52 PM ----------

Had a good look over the chassis... Rust free and in great nick!

Going to tackle it with the grinder and KBS in a couple of weeks.

http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/Chev/IMG00112-20100627-1350.jpg

69SS

29-06-2010, 06:48 AM

Looks like you have been busy Nate, making some real progress mate and looking sweet. What do you plane to coat the chassis in?

cluxford

29-06-2010, 08:20 AM

wow Nate, Not sure if I am more impressed with the progress your making or the fact you have a hoist in your shed

18htan

29-06-2010, 08:14 PM

Looks like you have been busy Nate, making some real progress mate and looking sweet. What do you plane to coat the chassis in?

Lyndsay, Been rather busy of late... The ball is offically rolling!

I am using KBS Chassis Coater Kit (http://www.kbs-coatings.com.au/KBS-Chassis-Coater-Kit_p_17.html). Its the same stuff I used on the floor and underbody.

I have been really happy with it. I am using the saturn black, although the pics above have not had the final coat of saturn.

wow Nate, Not sure if I am more impressed with the progress your making or the fact you have a hoist in your shed

Chris.. I have made nowhere near as much progress as you! Can't wait for spin in that beast of yours!

The Belair is at my brothers in Bairnsdale and I have been heading up every second weekend, his hoist and one of his sheds. He is a messy bugger but every weekend I am amazed as to what he has aquired.

BIG 63

29-06-2010, 10:02 PM

Looks Good Nate ,,, a bit of work to go ,,but is does look like a good car to start with.Read your whole post ,,great work,,reading back over your engine choices ,,the big block fits very easy,,your welcome to look at mine ,,it really is as easy as bolting a SB back in.
Cheers Andy

18htan

29-06-2010, 11:57 PM

Hey Andy,

Heaps of work to go...

Got a bit overwhelmed at the start, but now have a clear view of what I want and some goals locked in.

Aiming to cross off paint, panel, re-wire and interior first.

Freshen up the 350, powerglide and the "whatever it is diff". Then get back to driving the big b*tch.

Next start fixing the drivetrain as it breaks, and build a new engine.

18htan

12-07-2010, 10:55 PM

Another weekend in the country...

Got a heap done on the chassis. A day on the grinder, and it came up a treat.

http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/IMG00202-20100711-1214.jpg
http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/IMG00198-20100710-1743.jpg

Once it was all scrubbed up, it got a coat of KBS.

http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/IMG00206-20100711-1538.jpg
http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/IMG00205-20100711-1537.jpg

Looks like I have a guy locked in for paint panel... So I am starting to see a small amount of light at the end of the tunnel.

Hoping to drop all hanging panels off at the end of the month, then the body will be bead blasted before going off to the shop. 2pac primer and 2pac top..

About to place an order of sheetmetal. Any suggestions on shipping, and does anybody else need to order some stuff...?

cluxford

13-07-2010, 06:03 AM

Looking good Nate...

Shipping is always hard, no matter which way you look at it it ain't cheap, speed costs money....

cheapest way, by sea taking up spare space in a container, but 8-10 week wait...

Nev68

13-07-2010, 03:11 PM

Good progress.
I hope it doesn't come to a screaming halt once you go to the paint /panel stage as many projects do.

What's the plan for wheels?

Rex

22-07-2010, 12:43 AM

hey man how are you going to re wire the car?

18htan

22-07-2010, 12:49 AM

hey man how are you going to re wire the car?

Paying for your flight over and providing beer.... :D

Looking into some different options. At this stage looking ay buying a loom from the states. Its all the same as the US model except the dash harness.

Still a while off, so got some more time to work out the best way.

Rex

22-07-2010, 12:56 AM

LOL bro just get some Coca cola I'll be there to help...

When I had my 75 vette I totally redid the wiring front to back
and had a after market GM type harness . Chek out painless wiring..

18htan

22-07-2010, 01:03 AM

Glad you added the "Cola" mate... Otherwise I couldn't afford it.

I have checked out painless and american auto wire. I have been reassured there is more wire in a modern cars drivers door than my whole Bel Air!

As I mentioned, the only tricky part is the dash loom. Everything else is standard.

Everyone has told me I can do it, even though I am useless with my hands.

Rex

22-07-2010, 01:22 AM

LOL

Cool bro well I know first hand about painless wiring. You going to put a custom dash or trying to go original.

---------- Post added at 12:22 AM ---------- Previous post was at 12:07 AM ----------

http://www.summitracing.com/parts/PRF-30302/

http://www.summitracing.com/parts/PRF-30301/

Those were awesome when I did my vette

18htan

22-07-2010, 02:02 AM

Cool Rex...

Could come in very handy.

Thanks for the links.

18htan

25-07-2010, 12:52 AM

Locked in a Panel Beater today....

He is a young bloke, 28 that runs his own shop in my home town.

- All Rust Repair
- Full Bare Metal Respray using PPG
- Re hanging all panels and doors
- Doing all gaps
- Polish, including door jams
- Guaranteeing his work for 5 years... (For what its worth)
- No deposit, and payment accepted if I am happy with the result.

All this for 8k.

I had a look at another car he had painted and was happy with his work. Would be happy if my Belair had the same paint job, and he said I should expect a nicer result.

Now it sounds too good to be true, and cheap... I can hear everyone saying I will be getting what I pay for.

Oh well. He is a genuine lad and keen to get started soon.

Dropping in all hanging panels and doors in a fortnight.

It is easy to get lost and drop sh*t loads of coin, but it is afterall... Just a 63 Belair.

Is there anything else besides the above list that I should raise with him?

18htan

28-07-2010, 10:44 AM

Can you give me some feedback on my list above.

What have I missed, or what should I ask for or look out for?

Thanks

Nev68

28-07-2010, 02:02 PM

Can you give me some feedback on my list above.

What have I missed, or what should I ask for or look out for?

Thanks

Fish oil in the doors, cavities etc?

18htan

28-07-2010, 05:07 PM

Fish oil in the doors, cavities etc?

Nice one Nev.

Having never done this before, it is bloody easy for me to overlook things.

Any other suggestions?

L88racer

28-07-2010, 10:32 PM

Hi Nate

Everyone has a budget and we all work to what we can afford, looking forward to seeing the pictures of panel and paint soon!:)

18htan

28-07-2010, 11:24 PM

Thanks Rowan...

I am keen to move forward

(Oops... Sounds like I am on an election campaign)

69SS

30-07-2010, 12:39 AM

Making great progress Nate, Price sounds fair and if you are happy with previous results then its a no brainer.

18htan

23-08-2010, 05:03 PM

Played around with the big girl a bit more of the weekend.

Bolted the shell back onto the chassis, then pulled the rear springs out and dropped it on its bump stops. Checking to see what sort of room I had if I air bagged it.

The answer, plenty of room! Will be able to drop the chassis to about 2 inches off the ground with out mods!

Also dug my 350 out from the back of the shed. Going to strip it back and send to an engine shop to test the block and heads. If they are a good starting point, I am looking at picking up a SCAT stroker kit and take her out 383 (I know, I know... Tiny numbers to what some of you boys are running!!)

Thinking of going out on a limb with a gearbox... A 200r4 is a complete bolt in. No tail shaft adjustments, and its roughly the same size as the glide.

Bowtie Overdrives have ones built to handle 500hp for US$1395

Bowtie 200r4 (http://www.bowtieoverdrives.com/catalog/catalog_inc/viewitem.php?ITEMID=12)

Only issue, is they were never brought out to Aust

Nev68

23-08-2010, 08:51 PM

18htan

23-08-2010, 10:28 PM

Hey Nev,

Had a few beers and have mulled the gearboxes over. I want an over drive box and really the best and easy options are the 200r4 and the turbo 700.

200r4 is a direct bolt in, no mods to the tail shaft. Where as the Turbo 700 is longer and I will have to take 3 inches off the tail shaft. Decided to throw in a 9 inch as well, so will need to mod the tail shaft anyway.

Plus there are plenty of TH700's floating around in oz. Will still buy one from Bowtie Overdrives.

18htan

26-08-2010, 05:11 PM

Don't you love set backs...

Well this is my first major one, and I am sure there will be more to come.

My body shell was to be bead blasted tomorrow and delivered to the panel beater on Saturday.

The blaster came off his motorbike on the way to work and smacked him self around a bit...

Luckily he is going to be ok, but he won't be able to do my car for at least 4 weeks.

:mad::(:(:mad:

L88racer

26-08-2010, 07:24 PM

I'm sure there will be plenty more hiccups along the build, hopefully not too many. I always get stuck with the time a panel beater says it will take him to do a job, when they say about 3 months (that always means 1 year):(. Hope you can get your panel beater to a good completion time.

Rowan

18htan

27-09-2010, 06:06 PM

Nev68

27-09-2010, 09:47 PM

Well the shell is off to the blaster this Friday, and will be dropped to the panel beater Saturday.

I am excited the ball is starting to roll again, however I bloody worried what the blasting will uncover. :(

Now I have to man up and make a final call on what colour.

I am still hooked on a silver/grey... But there are so many options.

Any suggestions....? :D

The beauty about stripping paint is once it's done you aren't guessing about the body anymore, you know exactly what is there and needs to be fixed up.

I've seen a few people use Photoshop to coose a colour.

18htan

28-09-2010, 12:06 AM

The beauty about stripping paint is once it's done you aren't guessing about the body anymore, you know exactly what is there and needs to be fixed up.

I've seen a few people use Photoshop to coose a colour.

Good ides with Photoshop Nev... Shame I don't have it, or the skills. :(

18htan

01-10-2010, 11:55 PM

Busy Day....

http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/IMG00369-20101001-0922.jpg
http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/IMG00371-20101001-0939.jpg
http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/IMG00374-20101001-1716.jpg

Now the rust...
http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/IMG00375-20101001-1716.jpg
http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/IMG00376-20101001-1717.jpg
http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/IMG00380-20101001-1719.jpg
http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/IMG00382-20101001-1719.jpg
http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/IMG00384-20101001-1720.jpg
http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/IMG00386-20101001-1720.jpg
http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/IMG00387-20101001-1721.jpg
http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/IMG00389-20101001-1722.jpg
http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/IMG00391-20101001-1734.jpg

blackoutsteve

02-10-2010, 11:14 AM

A few nasty spots there Nate.. Is that more or less than what you expected?
How are these cars for aftermarket sheetmetal, and/or are you gonna make repairs yourself?

Re the color.. I really like Torquoise on late 50's early 60s cars.
This is Azure Torquoise which was a 1969 color option.
http://www.camaros.net/showroom/data/500/Camaro58.JPG

anychevy

02-10-2010, 12:29 PM

I really like Torquoise on late 50's early 60s cars.
That's a pretty colour, I can see it two tone, with a white roof :cool:

Nev68

02-10-2010, 02:23 PM

No guessing anymore, you know exactly what you need to fix.
Keep us posted with updates and pix please.

18htan

02-10-2010, 07:44 PM

Well after I dropped it off... I had sh*t day.

I was really worried about how bad it was going to be.

Thankfully I didn't get any surprises. Every bit of rust we found, we already had a rough idea it was there. Some is worse than expected, but overall its in bloody great shape.

The guy who blasted it said he had done a 62 a month before, and it was stuffed. Said he was worried mine was going to be a basket case and couldn't belive how solid it was overall.

So basically I am happy.

Steve, as for patch panels. I have a heap sitting on boat as we speak. But some of the roof gutters will be tricky.

My panel beater thinks its in great shape, and did not appear to be concerned when he had the bare metal shell dropped off.

Well the ball is offically rolling. So I am excited.

Now time to build an engine. I have changed my mind so many times on this front its not funny. However, I have made my mind up.

Big Block... Ok ok... Smaller than most of your big blocks. Looking for a 454 to stroke out to 496.

Can someone outline which blocks I should be looking for and what to avoid.

Thanks

Nev68

02-10-2010, 09:57 PM

I think it's not bad for a cars that's pushing 50 years old.
How were the doors and front panels?

Is the chassis in good nick?

18htan

02-10-2010, 11:44 PM

Nev the chassis is in great nick. Doors are also good.

Front quarters have a little bit on the lower rear corners, I have some patches on the way for that.

Also, I am amazed the condition it is in for how old it is.

cluxford

03-10-2010, 10:06 AM

blackoutsteve

03-10-2010, 10:16 AM

Now time to build an engine. I have changed my mind so many times on this front its not funny. However, I have made my mind up.

Big Block... Ok ok... Smaller than most of your big blocks. Looking for a 454 to stroke out to 496.

Can someone outline which blocks I should be looking for and what to avoid.

Thanks

Any block, 2 or 4 bolt that has the 4.25" bore and notching at the bottom of the cylinders for connecting rod clearance.. All 454s had this and most/all 427s didn't. If you're gonna stroke, you will need this notching.
Avoid a block that has been sleeved and try to get one that is still on standard bore.
Maybe look at buying a 454 that is suit rebuild. It may be better value considering the extra parts you get.
How much power are you looking for? ie: Do you need to go to the effort (and expense?) of stroking..
A 502 block with the 4.47 bore will get you your 500 cubes with less effort.

18htan

03-10-2010, 11:13 AM

Thanks Steve.

I think I will stick with a 454. I am only after 450 - 500hp. Thats what I was aiming for with the 383. Went the big block path because I will get the power a lot easier.

jaywildone57

03-10-2010, 12:43 PM

Nate if you are looking for a short 454 standard bore, try The engine centre, they were selling gen 4, 2 bolters for $1000.

Mine was standard bore, standard crank.

http://www.enginecentre.com.au/

blackoutsteve

03-10-2010, 01:09 PM

Thanks Steve.

I think I will stick with a 454. I am only after 450 - 500hp. Thats what I was aiming for with the 383. Went the big block path because I will get the power a lot easier.

Need to stroke? A 454 will make that power pretty easy.. Spend your money on some good heads.

18htan

03-10-2010, 02:11 PM

Thanks gents...

My engine guy told me, good alloy heads will have it running a treat, and it would almost the same as a small block with cast heads.

Perfect.

18htan

27-01-2011, 01:21 PM

Hi All...

Thought I would give a bit of an update as to where everything is at the moment.

I got 80% of my parts. The guy that bought them in for me just screwed me silly. He knew he had me by the balls and he just took me for a ride. I get the feeling the c*** enjoyed it. So I paid for the stuff that I needed, like all my patch panels and left the rest behind.

Actually, this left rather pissed off! Considering he is rather well known and made a lot of promises and then just changed everything to suit him. :mad::mad::mad:

But you live and learn.

Bolted the body back to the chassis so my panel beater could bolt it all back together and do the gaps. Now its officially in Paint Jail. Has been gapped, primed and torn back down.

While he worked on it, I got stuck into the boot pan with KBS. It came up pretty good.

http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae196/18htan/IMG00587-20101230-1419.jpg

Now I just have to play the waiting game, which I hear is not that fun.

While the Car is in Paint Jail, I am working on getting my drive line built. So currently trying to piece it all together. Ultimately I am not in a huge rush, I have all year.

SO at this stage my ever changing mind is still leaning towards a BBC, that will run through a Turbo 700 and into a Currie 9" if I can get my hands on one.

Still trying to find BBC, but honestly have not searched super hard. Just to throw a spanner in the works, a mate in the states has offered me his 480hp 383 for $2000... Complete, sump to intake.

Basically I am just writing lists, and then crossing stuff off.

Nev68

27-01-2011, 04:58 PM

blackoutsteve

27-01-2011, 06:28 PM

Having a big Block, if I were to do another engine, I'd love a big inch small block. 427 or 454. Less weight, more room and sleeper performance.
$2K for the 383 sounds fair Nate. You'll spend double that just at the machine shop doing a BBC properly.

18htan

27-01-2011, 10:18 PM

There's plenty of pr!cks out there who are all too willing to rip other people off.
It makes me mad.
Make sure you tell all your mate's to try to minimise the future damage this @rse @che can do to others.

Yeah spot on Nev. What made it worse, is he has heaps of postive feedback.

Found in the Vic Recommended Suppliers and all... :rolleyes:

---------- Post added at 11:18 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:17 PM ----------

Having a big Block, if I were to do another engine, I'd love a big inch small block. 427 or 454. Less weight, more room and sleeper performance.
$2K for the 383 sounds fair Nate. You'll spend double that just at the machine shop doing a BBC properly.

I am still hell keen on a rat, but might get the ball rolling with a cranky rev happy mouse.

That will get me on the road, and then I can slowly gather the bits and build the big block I wanted.

63coupe

20-03-2011, 10:37 PM

gday nate, its michael with the 2 door 63, sorry i havnt got back to you my phone is shagged and couldnt retreive your number, the guy about the grill plating etc. his name is robert, phone on: 9738 0495. Im thinking of starting a build thread on here so ill put all the pictures of the air bag suspension install up on that, plus this sites all american so its probably the best forum for my car, cheers michael

18htan

21-03-2011, 09:27 PM

Hey Michael...

Welcome to the forum. Great bunch of helpful people.

Plenty of people will love the work your doing on the imp, especially the fact the level your taking it too and that your doing it yourself. Hurry up and get a build thread going.

Cheers for Roberts number. Will let you know what he has to say.

Also good to have another full size. Get some pics up of your old mans galaxy up as well.

63coupe

19-04-2011, 10:17 PM

any news yet nate?

18htan

20-04-2011, 11:55 AM

Still trying to find another Panel Beater.

Admittedly, I have not been looking to hard. I am just a bit over it all at the moment.

So its currently sitting in my mum and dads garage... Gathering more dust.

dirtbag

29-04-2011, 08:05 AM

Pity you're so far away!!!

18htan

29-04-2011, 03:04 PM

Road trip...?

Give me another call to talk turkey again Tim.

dirtbag

06-05-2011, 10:16 PM

Hi Nate sorry for not replying sooner. I don't have your number anymore, so haven't called. Let me know if there's anything I can do to help out.
Cheers.

L88racer

19-06-2011, 09:49 PM

Hey Nate
Any updates on the potential panel and paint person?

camaro_1967rs

20-06-2011, 10:38 PM

I maybe able to help!

Saw these new brushes at bunnings last week, i wreckon if i get some utlra fine rollers we could have the job done in a couple of hours.

have you decided on engine & trans combo yet? small block, stroker, big block, 4stroker?

18htan

20-06-2011, 11:26 PM

Rowan,

I met with the bloke over the long weekend. I feel confident with him, however I am yet to see any of his work.

I have tentatively locked him for an August start.

Thanks Paul... You free next weekend?

We will do it at your place, and your neighbor can film it for youtube.

I have bought a 383 in the states. Aiming towards 500hp, and going to run a Turbo700 and 9 inch.

camaro_1967rs

21-06-2011, 11:33 PM

Thanks Paul... You free next weekend?

We will do it at your place, and your neighbor can film it for youtube.

I have bought a 383 in the states. Aiming towards 500hp, and going to run a Turbo700 and 9 inch.

Then we will be painting the car in our birthday suits Nate, if you are going to get filmed may as well look our best.

Sounds good with the 383, i like those engines in the big car, cos you can get into the bay and stand up if you have to.

Are you going to put a/c in and where are you sourcing the radiator?

My system didnt start to stay cool until I employed race radiators in dandy to build a custom system.

If customs open up your crate engine will it let the horses out? :p

Oh one thing re the TH700r, are you going to put the corvette kit through it to strengthen

18htan

22-06-2011, 12:08 AM

Paul, its not a mass produced crate motor... So hopefully no run away horses. :rolleyes:

Just got an email from my engine guy, and with the cam and intake he suggested it would be a solid 460 - 475 hp. Which is about 400 more than what it had! So I am going to be happy with that :D

I am getting the Turbo700 built in the states to suit. I know not the strongest choice, but I want the overdrive as ultimately she is just a cruiser. A 4l80 will require some cutting to make fit and is costly. The 200r4 is also an option, however the lack of them in Aus makes me wary.

Thinking about 3.55's in the rear.

63coupe

30-06-2011, 11:40 PM

3.55 sounds good, especially with overdrive, why not do panel and paint yourself :P

18htan

30-06-2011, 11:53 PM

Mike... you know I m useless.

Going to run a 4L80E.

So she should be a solid tough cruiser.

Got a guy for paint and panel, and will hopefully get it in for a start at the end of July.

GAS455

10-01-2012, 10:28 PM

Any updates on this Nate? :D

L88racer

11-01-2012, 12:19 PM

X2 ??

ari666

11-01-2012, 02:17 PM

Going to run a 4L80E.

probably have to modify the tunnel for that one.

blackoutsteve

13-01-2012, 06:29 AM

Yeah, come on Nate.. Haven't seen you here much lately.. I see your sig has changed, but that's either because you've given booze up or you've given up trying to give up booze.. :p
"Must give up women... Well more than 1 anyway."
Women.. OK, but be careful or you might end up as a gelding. :D