Did Bill Thomas build Camaros outside NICKEY??

[beater68427]

Im new here and found this place out of curiosity from a 68 camaro I purchased, I have had quite a few muscle cars over the years mostly Chevy and Mopar, I ran a wanted ad looking for a 67-68 Camaro, I sold a few cars and decided I wanted to build a first gen F, well I decided I wanted go aginst the norm and build a 7 or 8 and stay away from the popular 69, well after looking at many cars I came across this 68 price was so so, but not a real rusty car. Car is a 6 cyl car by the vin, here is the start of the kickers, has a aluminum headed 68 427 in it, 12 bolt BE code (also 68) M22 havent found any numbers on it, 2 pc old school lakewood bell housing where the bottom un bolts, has 68 steel wheels on front with bias BS front tires 700-14 MH slicks ont the back M over H old style no numbers on wheels but 15-850 slicks, old style 2pc traction bars but a straight bar not tube, Here is the wierd It does have a stinger hood on a steel frame???? car is original red with black interior and no gauges hurst shifter no console kinda plane jane. now another kicker has a Bill Thomas race cars sticker on the bottom of the trunk lid, a paper sticker yellowed and torn??? car is a 6cyl vin is it just some guys old race car it did things like this ever happen, I purchased the car with no title just a bill of sale, I'm currently working with the state on a tilte so I do not want to post any vin at this time, I'm fine with the price I paid for the car just on the parts, but after taking it apart and looking at it I start to question???? This is not a restored car this is a POS hence the name beater68427 no matter what comes of this car I'm going to restore it from what I purchased not my original intentions.

[camarojoe]

Sounds cool... you DO know we need to see some pics, right?

[beater68427]

[ QUOTE ]
Sounds cool... you DO know we need to see some pics, right?

[/ QUOTE ]

I will I will.. I have had the car for 6 months now but not real worried, but also concerned on the no title sale, I have paid the fees and also the proper foot steps, the car was a east coast built car but out of orange county, I have found myself quite fond of this place so no matter what the car is you will see pics and vin just want the legal docs first... I paid 12000.00 for the car it is quite clean the engine is in real bad shape, I was going to just stick another engine in it for now and have some fun with it, and rebuild and "restore" the one that came with the car, there was no intake and carb on it when I got it, alot of dmaage to the engine is rust, It did spin #1 & 2 rod heads seem good, but alot of cheese growing in the cylinders and the seats need changed 4 valves wouldnt even close when I pulled the heads off... now just time for the paperwork from the state and I will be happy...

[jeff morocco]

[ QUOTE ]
Sounds cool... you DO know we need to see some pics, right?

[/ QUOTE ]

i was going to say the same thing............ http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif

[GTO_DON]

Didnt somebody start a thread on a car like this around 5 years ago?? Somebody has to remember. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/hmmm.gif

[COPO_Anders]

Jeffrey, is the engineblock painted yellow ?

[beater68427]

[ QUOTE ]
Jeffrey, is the engineblock painted yellow ?

[/ QUOTE ]

Interesting you say that, the block is faded black now but you can see it was orange originally then yellow now light cruddy coat of black, the heads are bare aluminum, looks like it has had its share of abuse, I know I can save the heads but a little worried on the short block, I really do not have the money to build a new engine now well I have enough for a new coat of paint on the car or build a engine, I think (when I get a title) I will do a clean up on the car and put the other bigblock from my impala in it for now and have some fun. I started to get curious on the car, but reading some of the threads here, all the real cars were built from SS 396 cars, I think it was some guys street-bracket car form that era. I will get some pics up when I get the title back from the state, I am a paranoid sort and bought it from a younger guy and just a little worried, so far it came black clean no wants no warrants so I'm sure its all good, just me being paranoid.

[PeteLeathersac]

Whttp://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/eek.gifW...this car sure sounds interesting so far!.
Can you report what stampings are on the block?.
And before going too far w/ the title, have you confirmed the hidden Vins do match the 6 Cyl. tag?.

Welcome Jeff...your L34 factory 4:10 '67 rag sounds great too!.
http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif
~ Pete

--------------------
I like real cars best...the REAL real ones!

[beater68427]

[ QUOTE ]
Whttp://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/eek.gifW...this car sure sounds interesting so far!.
Can you report what stampings are on the block?.
And before going too far w/ the title, have you confirmed the hidden Vins do match the 6 Cyl. tag?.

Welcome Jeff...your L34 factory 4:10 '67 rag sounds great too!.
http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif
~ Pete
The Chevelle is a good car full docs makes it nice also, The vin is a 6 on the camaro and all seem to match on body, thats where im confused, the block has been surfaced years ago, no numbers there casting is a 5439, the rear seems to have 4:56 or 4:88 gears in it now and some previous weld marks on the tubes, I will need to do some cleaning there, and a gear change I think I'm going to put 3:73's in it, as far as the body it is very clean no undercoat car, very small amount of rust in quarters, Floor pans are great bottom of car is still black and quite clean, I was just going to give it a detail with whats there, and touch up the black in a few spots no dents or dings on the car, has had one repaint, There are no marking on the car at all no Camaro no engine size no marking at all did have a black stripe on hood plus Ribbon around nose? also manual steering manual brakes. What ever the car is I am just going to mildly restore it to what someone had made it.

--------------------
I like real cars best...the REAL real ones!

[/ QUOTE ]

[sixtiesmuscle]

Did you say it was an "east coast"/Orange County built car? Any idea when it went west? Just as an aside, the whole "yellow engine" thing is way overblown IMO. Yes, both Nickey & Bill Thomas might have painted an engine or engines yellow, but, so did many others back in the day. One yellow engine on the cover shot of one of the first Nickey/Bill Thomas cars has created a false idea that all of them were yellow.

You are correct in the idea that, most of the conversions were done on V-8 cars at least, and, L78 cars once available. That doesn't mean that someone didn't take a six cylinder car to Bill Thomas for work to be done at some point. If you can prove that, it would be a very cool car.

[beater68427]

[ QUOTE ]
Did you say it was an "east coast"/Orange County built car? Any idea when it went west? Just as an aside, the whole "yellow engine" thing is way overblown IMO. Yes, both Nickey & Bill Thomas might have painted an engine or engines yellow, but, so did many others back in the day. One yellow engine on the cover shot of one of the first Nickey/Bill Thomas cars has created a false idea that all of them were yellow.

You are correct in the idea that, most of the conversions were done on V-8 cars at least, and, L78 cars once available. That doesn't mean that someone didn't take a six cylinder car to Bill Thomas for work to be done at some point. If you can prove that, it would be a very cool car.

[/ QUOTE ]

As far as engine color, I take that with a grain of salt, the engine has been painted a multitude of times and once was yellow over orange, I did not think color ment anything I figured they were all orange, I'm sure the car is just someones old hot rod, it has had a serious time of racing but never a cage, the vin shows it was a Norwood car, and production number seems late, but has black CA plates hence 68-69 last reg shows 78 on them. nothing after that nothing in system. The glass over steel stinger hood made me wonder where it is from? and some of the items on the car, The guy I had purchsed it from seemed to have "Chemical Problem" and made we a little leary on no title.

[Stefano]

Nickey advertised that they would paint your 427/Conversion any color that you wanted. Yellow was one of the options and a color that no other MFG was using at that time.

The only other Builder that we have found to use Yellow on a regular basis was Ed Pink.

[sixtiesmuscle]

My point is that too many people place way too much weight on an engine being, or not being, yellow to try to determine if there was a Nickey/Bill Thomas connection to a specific car. I'm sure this comes from the well known cover shot of Bill Thomas techs installing a yellow painted engine into a red Camaro.

[COPO_Anders]

It COULD be the real deal, the colour is just one little sign, not proof. It always takes proof to be certain.

[beater68427]

[ QUOTE ]
My point is that too many people place way too much weight on an engine being, or not being, yellow to try to determine if there was a Nickey/Bill Thomas connection to a specific car. I'm sure this comes from the well known cover shot of Bill Thomas techs installing a yellow painted engine into a red Camaro.

[/ QUOTE ]

On this car I have no reason there is any Nickey association, I find alot of parts on it interesting, I know it has some form of past to find it would be great, and for engine color being a factor on anything is really no credit, Like I said in the past it has been painted and painted rebuilt and blown up but was yellow once, I just find as I dug into the car and era of the parts find it interesting date codes etc, and with parts on the car makes me wonder if this ever went on. on the other side of things found out the block is 4.350 overbore (not good) and rusty at that....

[beater68427]

A little update on the car, I found it intesting after today with the code on the rear in tech, so here is the rear also here, be code has 4:88 gears now, also restored the front wheels and tires they look good, not sure on wheel codes but they are k 18 space 3 and if I remember correct TW on the other side of the valve stem sorry forgot my notes at the shop.... The tires and wheels came on the car decided to just restore what was there, the engine on the other had needs some love.... 4.350 kicked two rods 1 and 2 heads look great they are next to the tires in pic (gave them a bath today) so its still a mystery machine...

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd132/1972cutlass/beater42768003.jpg

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd132/1972cutlass/beater42768006.jpg

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd132/1972cutlass/beater42768008.jpg

[camarojoe]

So now that you've shown you can take and post photos... lets see some pics of the car.

[beater68427]

[ QUOTE ]
So now that you've shown you can take and post photos... lets see some pics of the car.

[/ QUOTE ]

soon grasshopper.... its ugly http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif

[beater68427]

I do not really have the money to spend on the 427 Its going to be a major job, so I was thinking for now just putting this in with a clean up, good runner 10.5 comp with a small solid roller 5.75 5.88 227 and 232 @ .050 on 112* made good power and I can use the money to have the car ready for spring, and just fix the 427 next summer.

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd132/1972cutlass/69512.jpg

[x Baldwin Motion]

[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
So now that you've shown you can take and post photos... lets see some pics of the car.

[/ QUOTE ]

soon grasshopper.... its ugly http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif

[/ QUOTE ]

Ugly is good. then we can all go ooo and ahhh after you wash it !! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif

[Salvatore]

hey Jeff, That motor don't sound to shabby to me! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/no.gifhttp://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif

[beater68427]

[ QUOTE ]
hey Jeff, That motor don't sound to shabby to me! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/no.gifhttp://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif

[/ QUOTE ]

It will be fine for now, I want to get the aluminum headed deal back in it but not enough $$ in my mad money account.. Heads will be a easy fix block is another issue..

[camarojoe]

[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
So now that you've shown you can take and post photos... lets see some pics of the car.

[/ QUOTE ]

soon grasshopper.... its ugly http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif

[/ QUOTE ]

Just seems pretty silly to have a 2 page thread about a car and no pictures of it... http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smirk.gif but whatever floats your boat, grasshopper.

[beater68427]

[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
So now that you've shown you can take and post photos... lets see some pics of the car.

[/ QUOTE ]

soon grasshopper.... its ugly http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif

[/ QUOTE ]

Just seems pretty silly to have a 2 page thread about a car and no pictures of it... http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smirk.gif but whatever floats your boat, grasshopper.

[/ QUOTE ]

!!WOW!! I did not mean to strike a nerve if I did sorry, I started this with a question, and the car itself is questionable, I have pics when I bought the car before I took it apart and all the codes, I will share them when I get the paperwork like I said before, I bought the car from a guy who said it was a hand me down, but had no title and no proof of ownership, I did get a large amount of parts with it, and I figured if it went bad I have them stowed away and I will be fine on parts alone. When that title is in my hand I will load them up start to finish if you like.

[indyjps]

Sounds like someone wrecked their hot car and bought a 6 cyl to swap the pieces into.
does the engine / trans / rear dates match up, was the block installed in a car originally or is it an over the counter block, I would think these details could help determine if it was a parted out/ rebuild car if the codes/dates line up to an actual car, if its an over the counter engine it may have been a swap

[beater68427]

[ QUOTE ]
Sounds like someone wrecked their hot car and bought a 6 cyl to swap the pieces into.
does the engine / trans / rear dates match up, was the block installed in a car originally or is it an over the counter block, I would think these details could help determine if it was a parted out/ rebuild car if the codes/dates line up to an actual car, if its an over the counter engine it may have been a swap

[/ QUOTE ]


OTC engine 427 aluminum heads, OTC trans M22, BE 12 Bolt that was never built??? Light body no sound deadner full delete car, Fiberglass over steel stinger hood, with insert, 14X7 wheels K-18-3 up front, rear aftermarket wheels with slicks, Bill Thomas Race Cars sticker in trunk Old school paper, tow bar in front.. red on black one repaint with emblem delete. Interesting car.

[indyjps]

Definately an interesting car, keep the info coming and share some pics once you get the paperwork straightened out, are there many layers of paint? you might find a lettered up version buried that could help identify it.

[beater68427]

Well I have title in hand now and the last few weeks been working on the car with time given, I stripped the car very carfully I found nothing as far as markings other than where a old dealer badge had been mounted on the back, I had taken the car apart and stipped the panels, I primed them with uretane primer the hood needed alot of work so on the first coat I used some ppg epoxy, I sent out the shifter handle for plating with the ansen ground grabbers, It came back good but forgot to send the nut... When I first posted about the car I made some mistakes, I really didn't think much of it meaning the car but it just had some cool parts on it, well the car does not have 14X7 wheels but FC code 14X6 I thought they were 7 just by looking at the width of the lip? My mistake!! the spare is a FC wheel also but has no kelsey hayes stamp or date just FC??? the rear tires are 800 850 slicks verses a 700 slick, the car is a radio delete, and I guess in the 70's when you want to add a radio you just take a torche to the fender for the antenna... Well I started to bolt the car back togeather and fit parts so I can take it back apart to paint, It is going back single stage in ppg and blending into the trunk and firewall I want to leave as much original as I can, The hood bezel is painted blue inside, Car went though a tuff time in 76 with a white and blue stripe added to the red.....

[beater68427]

fitting things

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd132/1972cutlass/beater042.jpg

Restored spare FC no date or Kelsey hayes??

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd132/1972cutlass/beater044.jpg

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd132/1972cutlass/beater045.jpg

Dealer badge holes I will never know who

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd132/1972cutlass/beater048.jpg

[beater68427]

Shifter handle rechromed it does have some small pitts, and I forgot to send the nut in...

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd132/1972cutlass/beater051.jpg

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd132/1972cutlass/beater052.jpg

Very cool tach mechanical Yes hole in firewall..

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd132/1972cutlass/beater053.jpg

When you need a antenna get a torche, not sure if I'm going to fix it or what just yet????

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd132/1972cutlass/beater055.jpg

[beater68427]

I have not been on in ages or messed with this car in ages also, I went ahead and painted it last weekend and decided I better get it back together sometime before I am 80.. don't mind the brass fittings on engine I had the water pump disconnected and ran it on the hose before I put the front clip on, engine had been sitting 6 years I figured I better make sure it was fine. One of these years Ill pop in and it might actually be finished...

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd132/1972cutlass/camaropaint9_zpszenw9mwm.jpg (http://s226.photobucket.com/user/1972cutlass/media/camaropaint9_zpszenw9mwm.jpg.html)

[beater68427]

I sprayed it in PPG single stage enamel I wanted to stay with single stage just to be more old school with the build I sprayed trunk and jambs cowl area with the car so no lines to buff out, seeing it in color might keep me motivated... I hope..

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd132/1972cutlass/camaropaint5_zpsigklojkj.jpg (http://s226.photobucket.com/user/1972cutlass/media/camaropaint5_zpsigklojkj.jpg.html)

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd132/1972cutlass/camaropaint6_zpsmzca9vzy.jpg (http://s226.photobucket.com/user/1972cutlass/media/camaropaint6_zpsmzca9vzy.jpg.html)

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd132/1972cutlass/camaropaint7_zpssevqpf22.jpg (http://s226.photobucket.com/user/1972cutlass/media/camaropaint7_zpssevqpf22.jpg.html)

[m22mike]

Not a thing wrong with single atage, looks great.. <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/biggthumpup.gif

[earntaz]

I've shot a lot of DuPont Centari w/gloss improver and have had excellent results.

[beater68427]

I actually had a hard time getting single stage here I had to order it in, but I was mind set that's what I wanted.

[Fast67VelleN2O]

Time to change your screen name. Does not look like a beater anymore! Looks good!

[firstgenaddict]

If it's not metallic I shoot single stage, I don't like the way the clear looks over a solid color.

[beater68427]

Just about done with the firewall decided to fire up the engine before hanging front clip, I run a hose into the water pump and out the intake (grey hoses) for cooling while I was running it, I like my fingers....

http://vid226.photobucket.com/albums/dd132/1972cutlass/oldcomputer/68running_zpsgoxnmc9m.mp4

[earntaz]

What are you running for a cam ... ? Sounds awesome!!! TAZ

[PeteLeathersac]

I was wondering about this car a week or two ago, thanks for the cool updates!
Have you sent in for the NCRS dealer info yet...it may offer nothing more than a clue to the history but worthwhile for all it costs also help you decide how to fill your dealer emblem holes?
<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/beers.gif
~ Pete

[beater68427]

I have not done the NCRS not sure how, I have just been putting it back together as close as I can tell it was last modified, as far as a dealer goes it has a old Trider Chevrolet frame? not sure if that a was a dealer it was at ever or just a old frame I still have it hanging on my wall.

[beater68427]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: earntaz</div><div class="ubbcode-body">What are you running for a cam ... ? Sounds awesome!!! TAZ </div></div>

It is a Comp 305H I ran one in 396 nova in the 80's and the car ran quite good (12.30's here)for what it was so I decided to go old school and try one again.

[Craig_Maiorana]

This seems very similar to the car that there was a discussion about on another thread that was owned by an Anaheim pd detective.

[Xplantdad]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: beater68427</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I have not done the NCRS not sure how, I have just been putting it back together as close as I can tell it was last modified, as far as a dealer goes it has a old Trider Chevrolet frame? not sure if that a was a dealer it was at ever or just a old frame I still have it hanging on my wall. </div></div>

Vern Trider? That was an Anaheim Chevrolet dealerstarted out on Anaheim Blvd if I remember correctly, then moved to the corner of Euclid and Lincoln...Changed to Southland Chevrolet in 1993? Southland is now closed as well...and a Target store is on the land where the dealer once was...

[earntaz]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: beater68427</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: earntaz</div><div class="ubbcode-body">What are you running for a cam ... ? Sounds awesome!!! TAZ </div></div>

It is a Comp 305H I ran one in 396 nova in the 80's and the car ran quite good (12.30's here)for what it was so I decided to go old school and try one again. </div></div>

Great! thanks for the reply!!

[beater68427]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Xplantdad</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: beater68427</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I have not done the NCRS not sure how, I have just been putting it back together as close as I can tell it was last modified, as far as a dealer goes it has a old Trider Chevrolet frame? not sure if that a was a dealer it was at ever or just a old frame I still have it hanging on my wall. </div></div>

Vern Trider? That was an Anaheim Chevrolet dealerstarted out on Anaheim Blvd if I remember correctly, then moved to the corner of Euclid and Lincoln...Changed to Southland Chevrolet in 1993? Southland is now closed as well...and a Target store is on the land where the dealer once was... </div></div>

That's the one Says Anaheim on top or bottom cant remember then opposite side Vern Trider and a Bowtie

[beater68427]

I remembered to take a picture of that frame this weekend

http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/pics/usergals/2015/05/full-5736-25954-trider.jpg

[Xplantdad]

Same dealer. I used to live a few blocks from Vern Trider <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/smile.gif

[beater68427]

The fun part putting it back together and detailing, nice to see the front end going back on.

http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/pics/usergals/2015/05/full-5736-26155-camaro01.jpg
http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/pics/usergals/2015/05/full-5736-26156-camaro03.jpg

[resto4u]

Has it been documented that nickey/thomas engine transplants received yellow painted engines? If so, what is the color name or paint code. Roger

[beater68427]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: resto4u</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Has it been documented that nickey/thomas engine transplants received yellow painted engines? If so, what is the color name or paint code. Roger </div></div>

In looking at pictures Bill Thomas painted some of his engines Yellow in various cars, I just decided to on this car when I got it the engine was black but had been Black Yellow and Orange on the block the heads were bare aluminum I still have those heads but they need work. The rest I threw away it was junk.

[beater68427]

I wanted to duplicate the factory undercoating it took a while but found a NOS gallon of some tar type undercoating made by evercoat probably from the 80's I cant stand the newer spray on stuff it just looks wrong to me and seems mushy, I tried on some spray cards to apply it different ways the one that looked the best was just a 1 inch brush and dabbing it on over spraying it, this is one coat down I think I will do two

http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/pics/usergals/2015/06/full-5736-27177-undercoat.jpg

[olredalert]

----Jeff,,,,Some racers (Bob Hamilton was one) painted their engines yellow as they could see oil leaks more easily. Im sure that's the reason Bill T did at least some of his engines that way....Bill S

[JoeC]

not sure why Thomas used yellow but he was old school and
in 1957 Chevy painted some 283 truck engines yellow

for some reason in 1950's Chevy used many engine colors - blue red yellow gray green orange black even a Chartreuse (lime green)

other years used different colors also

http://www.cs.siena.edu/~lederman/truck/Documents/danroyEngineColors/danroyVCCAcolor.html

[leach]

Yes engines were painted yellow to detect oil leaks that is why Nickey also painted them yellow. <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/flag.gif

[beater68427]

Does anyone have a good picture of the factory horn mounting on a standard 68, I have lost a few pictures over the years and I cant seem to find a good picture on line.

[Stefano]

I never asked Bill Thomas that specific question, but did ask Don Swiatek.

While there may be some validity to the opinions posted, it was mainly done in order to have their engines stand out. A customer option for conversions was offered where NicKey would paint the engine any color you wanted. Since there were several magazine articles, including a cover shot with the a &quot;Yellow&quot; engine, Yellow became a popular color if and when the traditional Chevy Orange was not used.

The Yellow painted engines became associated with NicKey and Bill Thomas conversions.

http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/pics/usergals/2015/06/full-295-27351-chris_avila_3.91s_014.jpg (http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/pics/usergals/2015/06/full-295-27351-chris_avila_3.91s_014.jpg)

[beater68427]

A little more headway on beater, I did install a big block radiator, it had a small block one in it but I figured I want to drive this without any potential issues I will have to chance it without the caution fan decal they tell me they are on nation back order.... It needed a new heater core and I went back and forth on to convert it to a big block or leave the small block 6 type in it, I decided to leave the small block 6 type in it during conversions they didn't switch them back then so I kept it that way, feels good to finally see it going back togeather after sitting all these years.
http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/pics/usergals/2015/06/full-5736-27932-68camaro2.jpg
http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/pics/usergals/2015/06/full-5736-27933-68camaro3.jpg

[Day2_69Z]

I noticed the None vacuum line on the distributor, can you post the stamped # and date ?
Also, the dates on the carbs with list #'s etc.?

Damn cool ass car !

[beater68427]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Day2_69Z</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I noticed the None vacuum line on the distributor, can you post the stamped # and date ?
Also, the dates on the carbs with list #'s etc.?

Damn cool ass car ! </div></div>

Thanks!! The engine in the car now is nothing special a 454 with 67 427 closed chamber heads steel crank flat top pistons comp cams 305H, I have the 074 heads dated 73 and the Offy intake is dated 73 most everything form the other engine was dated 73 the block was junk so I scraped it, some day I was going to build a 73 set up to duplicate it but for now what's in it stays.

[beater68427]

Had to take a few month off putting beater back together been boating season and I love boating.... Dug out the hood last night for beater and wondering if I should put a stripe on it or not????? I was thinking just the Corvette Bezel and the 427 numbers on side I kind of like the plane look, Opinions?

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd132/1972cutlass/stinger_zpsni6x5s4d.jpg (http://s226.photobucket.com/user/1972cutlass/media/stinger_zpsni6x5s4d.jpg.html)

[earntaz]

Vette stinger ...

[1967Z28]

Try it with no stinger stripe. You can always add it later if you decide you don't like it.

[68l30]

I've got a black Stinger hood with the stinger done in White &amp; White Lace....Period look.


BIG

[Plowman]

The Stinger Hood with Corvette Bezel look's good with the Stinger Stripe. I would not like to take the hood off and stripe it later in white.

[beater68427]

Color looks too orange in pics but it is correct, mixed emotions on hood stripe I did buy new Corvette 427 emblems and bezel, I did not put SS emblems on car its a 6cyl car and not trying to hide that fact, but I did spray the tail panel in satin I like the look

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd132/1972cutlass/beatertrnk_zpsi9llyff6.jpg (http://s226.photobucket.com/user/1972cutlass/media/beatertrnk_zpsi9llyff6.jpg.html)

[beater68427]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Plowman</div><div class="ubbcode-body">The Stinger Hood with Corvette Bezel look's good with the Stinger Stripe. I would not like to take the hood off and stripe it later in white. </div></div>

I really do not want to be taking it on and off either.

[PxTx]

http://i710.photobucket.com/albums/ww101/Plowman7/FrankYellow.jpg (http://s710.photobucket.com/user/Plowman7/media/FrankYellow.jpg.html)

I think you need to stripe them.

[beater68427]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: pxtx</div><div class="ubbcode-body">http://i710.photobucket.com/albums/ww101/Plowman7/FrankYellow.jpg (http://s710.photobucket.com/user/Plowman7/media/FrankYellow.jpg.html)

I think you need to stripe them. </div></div>

This picture really set my mind, I am going to go with a white stinger stripe that car with no stripe does not look good the hood blends in to me.

[John]

... Is that &quot;Hugger Orange&quot; pint color ? <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/dunno.gif

.... You may want to go with a &quot;black&quot; stinger stripe rather then white

.... since you have added the &quot;black&quot; tail panel

...just a suggestion <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/worship.gif

[PeteLeathersac]

Stripes or not, unless you plan on opening it up for flow, the inside stinger scoop vertical piece looks best blackened.
<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/beers.gif
~ Pete


http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/pics/usergals/2015/09/full-2506-31588-thomascamaro.jpg

[Craig_Maiorana]

I think you'll be safe either white or black .. but it does need something. The stinger jus kind of disappears without it.

[beater68427]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: PeteLeathersac</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
Stripes or not, unless you plan on opening it up for flow, the inside stinger scoop vertical piece looks best blackened.
<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/beers.gif
~ Pete


http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/pics/usergals/2015/09/full-2506-31588-thomascamaro.jpg

</div></div>

Mine actually uses a Corvette Bezel only one I have seen that does also 427 emblems on side

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd132/1972cutlass/beater052.jpg (http://s226.photobucket.com/user/1972cutlass/media/beater052.jpg.html)

[beater68427]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: John</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
... Is that &quot;Hugger Orange&quot; pint color ? <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/dunno.gif

.... You may want to go with a &quot;black&quot; stinger stripe rather then white

.... since you have added the &quot;black&quot; tail panel

...just a suggestion <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/worship.gif </div></div>

No, Correct color it just looks orange from my phone pictures

[beater68427]

Better pic, it also is glass skin on steel structure uses factory springs and latch

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd132/1972cutlass/beater033.jpg (http://s226.photobucket.com/user/1972cutlass/media/beater033.jpg.html)

[Verne_Frantz]

Just my opinion, but do you want your car to look like a Corvette or a customized Camaro? &quot;Oh look, he put a Vette hood on his Camaro!&quot;
If it were mine, I'd come up with a nice looking set of stripes or pin stripes (unique to the car). One of one is more impressive.

Verne <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/biggthumpup.gif

[Craig_Maiorana]

That's the beauty of the stinger hood. You can style however you want because its already something different that the ice cube tray hood or your run of the mill cowl.

Where in central joisey are you Verne?

[PxTx]

http://i710.photobucket.com/albums/ww101/Plowman7/Motion/FL0112-121172_9_zpsmik6k2ln.jpeg (http://s710.photobucket.com/user/Plowman7/media/Motion/FL0112-121172_9_zpsmik6k2ln.jpeg.html)


http://i710.photobucket.com/albums/ww101/Plowman7/Motion/attachment_zpsljh5sxrx.jpeg (http://s710.photobucket.com/user/Plowman7/media/Motion/attachment_zpsljh5sxrx.jpeg.html)

Yes, there are lots of neat ideas to accent the hood. Donnie White did a nice job on this hood.
http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/pics/usergals/2014/05/full-887-11860-039.jpg

[Verne_Frantz]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: SMOKIN_JOKER</div><div class="ubbcode-body">That's the beauty of the stinger hood. You can style however you want because its already something different that the ice cube tray hood or your run of the mill cowl.

Where in central joisey are you Verne?
</div></div>

Just outside Princeton. Nothing but farm country until all the yuppies moved in.

Verne

[markinnaples]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: pxtx</div><div class="ubbcode-body">http://i710.photobucket.com/albums/ww101/Plowman7/Motion/FL0112-121172_9_zpsmik6k2ln.jpeg (http://s710.photobucket.com/user/Plowman7/media/Motion/FL0112-121172_9_zpsmik6k2ln.jpeg.html)
</div></div>

Oh man, I'd love to see more pictures of this Camaro. What a perfect 70's Style '69.
<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/flag.gif <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/biggthumpup.gif <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/flag.gif <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/biggthumpup.gif

[Carleen]

http://i517.photobucket.com/albums/u331/Nikkewi/R841-1_zps6ee7e816.jpg

[beater68427]

Just noticed date of my first post and realized I'm coming up on 6 years putting this car back together better spend less time with the boats and get this thing finished...... I get stuck doing this all summer then messing with engines in winter... better give it a rest and focus on beater...

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd132/1972cutlass/rig_zps14ifqyv7.jpg (http://s226.photobucket.com/user/1972cutlass/media/rig_zps14ifqyv7.jpg.html)

[olredalert]

----Like your choice of boat! I have a Cig/Gulfstream 33ft. center console (derived from a 36 wide-body), as well as four others. Boats have kinda taken over up here......Bill S

[Keith Seymore]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: olredalert</div><div class="ubbcode-body">----Like your choice of boat! I have a Cig/Gulfstream 33ft. center console (derived from a 36 wide-body), as well as four others. Boats have kinda taken over up here......Bill S </div></div>

----I like your choice of truck!

<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/wink.gif

GMC's been putting bread on my table for almost 4 decades.

K

[beater68427]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Keith Seymore</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: olredalert</div><div class="ubbcode-body">----Like your choice of boat! I have a Cig/Gulfstream 33ft. center console (derived from a 36 wide-body), as well as four others. Boats have kinda taken over up here......Bill S </div></div>

----I like your choice of truck!

<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/wink.gif

GMC's been putting bread on my table for almost 4 decades.

K </div></div>

Just bought that one this summer, 15 Denali 3500 every option GM has to offer on it expensive but I love it!!!

[beater68427]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: olredalert</div><div class="ubbcode-body">----Like your choice of boat! I have a Cig/Gulfstream 33ft. center console (derived from a 36 wide-body), as well as four others. Boats have kinda taken over up here......Bill S </div></div>

I have a few the Cig is my favorite by far! Have to have a fishing boat for my youngest my middle needs a wakeboard boat and my wife loves the Bayliner for camping... I understand how they can take over...

[olredalert]

----Jeff,,,Google &quot;Short Circuit Magnum&quot; and you can take a look at the 27 Magnum Sport I picked up late last summer. Feeds my need for speed. Then look up finomarine.com and you will see my beat up old body standing in front of my Fino 30. That website also has several pics of my boat (&quot;Bill Stephens Fino&quot;, my pal forgot a couple of letters in my last name) under restoration. My favorite of all time boat......Bill S

[beater68427]

That's really cool Bill, I remember &quot;Short Circuit&quot; nice to see its in good hands!! I still love the boats got into them heavy when I got tire of sitting in staging lanes and decided sitting on the water was better... I owned Performance Marine in Havasu for a number of years, then decided to sell out and come back to Utah when it was time to slow down and have a family.

The old shop
http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd132/1972cutlass/shopAZ.jpg (http://s226.photobucket.com/user/1972cutlass/media/shopAZ.jpg.html)


Back to the subject of Beater... I decided to just trim the hood and I will put it on the car and look at a final product versus just a hood before I make my stripe decision. The repop Bezel does not fit as good as the original but the original has pitting so it will have to do.
http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd132/1972cutlass/beater1_zpsn3z9fype.jpg (http://s226.photobucket.com/user/1972cutlass/media/beater1_zpsn3z9fype.jpg.html)

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd132/1972cutlass/beater2_zpse0ysicdr.jpg (http://s226.photobucket.com/user/1972cutlass/media/beater2_zpse0ysicdr.jpg.html)

[olredalert]

----Jeff,,,If you decide to stripe the hood take a look at an original 67 Vette 427 hood and note the taper of the spear toward the scoop. Not so much to emulate a Corvette, it just looks better IMHO!
----You must have been like a kid in a candy store while at Performance Marine......Bill S

[beater68427]

Im back on the bottom of the car for now, not sure if anyone remembers but it has some funky staggered springs, on the rh side one of the leafs is forward? why and how is beyond me but staying that way the actual leaf was drilled from the factory that way. I cleaned them with acid and want to retain the natural finish not sure if just to clear coat them or what? I have some mixed emotions on the rear end spring peaches where they are welded to the tube, it has heavy welds over the factory welds by someone that is actually a worse welder than me not sure if I should clean them up or leave as is...

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd132/1972cutlass/004-39.jpg (http://s226.photobucket.com/user/1972cutlass/media/004-39.jpg.html)

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd132/1972cutlass/005-28.jpg (http://s226.photobucket.com/user/1972cutlass/media/005-28.jpg.html)

Factory centering hole?

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd132/1972cutlass/002-46.jpg (http://s226.photobucket.com/user/1972cutlass/media/002-46.jpg.html)

[beater68427]

I have been detailing the bottom and while cleaning the drive line this weekend I noticed these makes first is orange second looks cream yellowish and had a yellow X toward rear and blue smuge on the tranny yoke, curious what they meant

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd132/1972cutlass/camarodriveline_zpsgfa9scv4.jpg (http://s226.photobucket.com/user/1972cutlass/media/camarodriveline_zpsgfa9scv4.jpg.html)

[SuperNovaSS]

Looking sweet!

Jason

[resto4u]

The color stripes were for the trans. or balanced and the mark on the yolk would be that the pinion is set.

[beater68427]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: PeteLeathersac</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
I was wondering about this car a week or two ago, thanks for the cool updates!
Have you sent in for the NCRS dealer info yet...it may offer nothing more than a clue to the history but worthwhile for all it costs also help you decide how to fill your dealer emblem holes?
<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/beers.gif
~ Pete


</div></div>

I went ahead and ordered one today but after failing to find any past on this car I am sure it is just some old street beater someone built, at least it will be cool to have the NCRS dealer info.

[beater68427]

Been a few months for me again, but it looks like 2016 is the year for Beater to see the light of day again, this thing has been sleeping way too long, who knows how long before me... Did rear brake lines last night and finished up e brake cables, It goes to upholstery here in a few weeks need to hurry my rear up...


http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd132/1972cutlass/beater045_zps4pdj6ojt.jpg (http://s226.photobucket.com/user/1972cutlass/media/beater045_zps4pdj6ojt.jpg.html)

[beater68427]

I decided to go with a f70x15 on the car, the wheels are original TT's I have had for years with some new Firestone's, I still have the original steel wheels with skinny's and slicks but they were real old and I wouldn't think of driving on them might sell them not sure I would ever even put them back on car?? The car is getting close I am just finishing up the dash now then I can put the steering column in and the drivers fender back on and finish up the front clip, I should buff it next week and give it a serious detailing and then to the upholstery shop.

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd132/1972cutlass/beatertires_zpsq0cylfor.png (http://s226.photobucket.com/user/1972cutlass/media/beatertires_zpsq0cylfor.png.html)

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd132/1972cutlass/beatertires2_zpsj61afr5n.jpg (http://s226.photobucket.com/user/1972cutlass/media/beatertires2_zpsj61afr5n.jpg.html)

[454_Malibu]

Sweet tire/wheel combo....

[PeteLeathersac]

Great to see the update and your progress w/ the car!
Love the tire/wheel combo too also hoping to see at least pics of the old tires/rims on the car?
Did you get the NCRS result or find out anything more of the car's history yet?
<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/beers.gif
~ Pete

[beater68427]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: PeteLeathersac</div><div class="ubbcode-body">

Great to see the update and your progress w/ the car!
Love the tire/wheel combo too also hoping to see at least pics of the old tires/rims on the car?
Did you get the NCRS result or find out anything more of the car's history yet?
<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/beers.gif
~ Pete

I did get the NCRS it was another dead end but glad I got it, car was sold new in Texas I cant remember the name, Only thing I know it was sold in Texas went to CA and then UT other than that I have given up finding out any history on the car I will just enjoy it for what it is. The car itself is turning out real nice it will be fun to drive.


</div></div>

[beater68427]

Trying to get the dash finished up so I can get the column back in and the drivers fender on, ran into a few things I needed to finish the dash so decided to wet sand and buff while I'm waiting for them, I just sat the original windshield in and the back glass to keep water out, all the glass has a issue here and there I think I will replace all the glass except the quarter glass they have some cool decals I want to leave with the car.

Sorry for the bad phone pics time for a upgrade I think..

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd132/1972cutlass/beaterdash_zpseimlfq4n.jpg (http://s226.photobucket.com/user/1972cutlass/media/beaterdash_zpseimlfq4n.jpg.html)

Taking the car down to 2000 grit

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd132/1972cutlass/beaterwetsand_zpsz2uiv0ko.jpg (http://s226.photobucket.com/user/1972cutlass/media/beaterwetsand_zpsz2uiv0ko.jpg.html)

[HawkX66]

Beautiful job you're doing. I noticed your rake/height is set up almost exactly like mine. What are you going to use for shocks?

[beater68427]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: HawkX66</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Beautiful job you're doing. I noticed your rake/height is set up almost exactly like mine. What are you going to use for shocks? </div></div>

Thanks!! I hope it settles a bit after it is all together the rear springs are original multi leafs (strange stagger on them) with new bushings, the fronts are new, the shocks are some no name 3 way adjustable I got from CPP I figured I could adjust it to drive the way feels best.

[HawkX66]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: beater68427</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: HawkX66</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Beautiful job you're doing. I noticed your rake/height is set up almost exactly like mine. What are you going to use for shocks? </div></div>

Thanks!! I hope it settles a bit after it is all together the rear springs are original multi leafs (strange stagger on them) with new bushings, the fronts are new, the shocks are some no name 3 way adjustable I got from CPP I figured I could adjust it to drive the way feels best. </div></div>
I'm sure she'll settle down some. Especially with the big block. Did you leave the rear shackles etc loose and then tighten everything up on the ground under load? If not, it will leave it a little higher.

[beater68427]

Yea the upper and lower control arms are still loose and the rear is also, I have done it out of habit not for height but to have bushing in position before tightening so they are not twisted or bound in ride height.

[beater68427]

Beater is looking good, took me long enough but coming around

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd132/1972cutlass/beater68427_zpswv1npdst.jpg (http://s226.photobucket.com/user/1972cutlass/media/beater68427_zpswv1npdst.jpg.html)

[JRC99]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: beater68427</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Day2_69Z</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I noticed the None vacuum line on the distributor, can you post the stamped # and date ?
Also, the dates on the carbs with list #'s etc.?

Damn cool ass car ! </div></div>

Thanks!! The engine in the car now is nothing special a 454 with 67 427 closed chamber heads steel crank flat top pistons comp cams 305H, I have the 074 heads dated 73 and the Offy intake is dated 73 most everything form the other engine was dated 73 the block was junk so I scraped it, some day I was going to build a 73 set up to duplicate it but for now what's in it stays. </div></div>
I gotta hear this. VERY similar to my grandfather's setup, except I don't know the heads and the pistons are domed. I'm assuming it's the .575 lift?

EDIT: I see you posted a video.

[beater68427]

Got some time in fitting things Beater is getting close

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd132/1972cutlass/beater47_zpszgkoxmyl.jpg (http://s226.photobucket.com/user/1972cutlass/media/beater47_zpszgkoxmyl.jpg.html)

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd132/1972cutlass/beater48_zpsj14ykcwv.jpg (http://s226.photobucket.com/user/1972cutlass/media/beater48_zpsj14ykcwv.jpg.html)

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd132/1972cutlass/beater46_zpsowsho1fp.png (http://s226.photobucket.com/user/1972cutlass/media/beater46_zpsowsho1fp.png.html)

[owners2]

Looking Real good....

[markinnaples]

beater, that '68 is smokin', whew.

[beater68427]

Well its finally time Beater is awaiting its spot for upholstery Jason from the show Bitchin Rides is doing it, he did my Chevelle and his work is impressive!! I fired it up this weekend found a fuel leak but all else is looking good!!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oRAiAdXgQJw

[beater68427]

Have the car home still waiting for the interior guys to get opening short vid pulling it in garage
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7SisB2oo2a8&t=10s