Harry Mann 68 L78 / L88 Camaro

[TimG]

So, the L88 will get aluminum heads and go back in the beast, that will be cool.

[napa68]

So, the L88 will get aluminum heads and go back in the beast, that will be cool.

That is correct. Perhaps some refinement inside:naughty:

[cook_dw]

Congrats on the upgrades.

[Pro Stock John]

Great updates.

Were you able to connect with the owner's family?

I was able to help a guy connect to a previous owner of his Nova via a machine shop receipt, felt good.

[napa68]

Were you able to connect with the owner's family?

Cannot say as though I tried. Much of that research was done over 6 years ago. I suppose one of the reasons I did not pursue it was due to all of the different last names involved.

[Pro Stock John]

Lot of names to go through, I've found folks on FB when I was helping the guy research the Nova and I also found some family members on there.

Herbert Roy Pacheco, Daniel Aguilera, and Jose Aguilera, and her daughter, Virginia P. Aguilera-Quiros. She also leaves behind grandchildren, Laura Pacheco, Brian Pacheco, Adrienne Aguilera, Freddie Aguilera, Jr., Corina Aguilera, Daniel Aguilera, Jr., Misty Aguilera, Monica Quiros, Steven Aguilera, and Ashley Pacheco. She leaves 16 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her sons, Fred R. Aguilera and Michael Satore.

[Crush]

Cannot say as though I tried. Much of that research was done over 6 years ago. I suppose one of the reasons I did not pursue it was due to all of the different last names involved.

Tim I thought you connected with the original owner? I was fortunate to talk with him and I thought you were going to invite him to Macan? Let me know I can check and see if I still have it.

[napa68]

Tim I thought you connected with the original owner? I was fortunate to talk with him and I thought you were going to invite him to Macan? Let me know I can check and see if I still have it.

You are right....I did connect with Mike. I have his info. He's probably told as much as he ever will

[juliosz]

I spoke with Mike as well. Very nice guy and was able to give me good info on his time with the car. I showed him this pic of the windshield decal but he didn’t put it on the car. I was hoping he could ID it for me.

Love your vision for the car Tim, can’t wait to see (and hear) when it’s completed.

[napa68]

I've been back on the Camaro for a couple of days. I noticed the upper control arm bushings didn't look all that healthy, so I pulled the front end apart to at least change out the bushings. I also found out the lower ball joints were looser than I'd like to see. Surprisingly, the upper ball joints are good (and I wanted to hopefully save the original riveted joint on the left side). A thorough cleaning and Boshield was in order as well.

I elected not to soak the control arms, spindles, etc. in Evaporust. I felt they would better match the patina of the rest of the subframe and associated parts. There are some small parts I soaked on Evaporust just to get them back to their original plating.

I have tried to preserve the markings on the spindles and steering arms for reference.

Hopefully the lower ball joints will be here today.

https://i.imgur.com/OOFB57Jh.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/v3UG3rAh.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/SLmCceKh.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/oOOjxRth.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/xcyriNvh.jpg

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https://i.imgur.com/9qN2Xgzh.jpg

[WILMASBOYL78]

Nice job on getting the front end pieces cleaned...looks great.

?? How does that Mark Ten unit work, I have seen these before, but not really up to speed on how they work.

-wilma

[TimG]

That looks great, Tim.

[napa68]

Nice job on getting the front end pieces cleaned...looks great.

?? How does that Mark Ten unit work, I have seen these before, but not really up to speed on how they work.

-wilma

It's a transistorized amplifier of sort. There was one on the car from way back. This one is installed as a dummy of you will. The car actually has a MSD box hidden under the dash.

Tim

[dykstra]

Looks great Tim!!

[napa68]

Off to see the wizard tomorrow:headbang:

https://i.imgur.com/yVvwaYDh.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/964AvAGh.jpg

[dykstra]

Awesome!! Can’t wait to hear the bad assery!!!!

[Too Many Projects]

I see you have your snow shovel with....just in case...:headbang:

Next 3 days down here will be interesting for weather.

[cook_dw]

I like this car a lot.

[napa68]

The L88 is apart and all has held up well. The block, cylinder bores, pistons (TRW 12.5:1), crank journals all look good as does the dimple rods (bushed for floating pins). The ZL1 cam and lifters all look good, measured out to spec, and will be reused.

The only issue that was discovered is the flywheel was way out of balance (for whatever reason). That will get addressed and balanced with the pressure plate. I did notice there was a vibration above 5000 rpm. While it wasn't terrible, I felt it should be better. Glad we found a smoking gun there.

So, a simple hone job and hot tank. All new rings, bearings, and gaskets. We'll add the 842 aluminum heads I had redone earlier this year (for this little side project) in addition to another 163 intake (divider milled out).

Eric Jackson helped me source an old school Holley 4781 850DP. He should have that tomorrow to build a trick little carb specifically for this combination. I suspect by the end of January it should be on the dyno.

Merry Christmas everyone!

[dykstra]

Great to hear Tim!!

[Crush]

Great to hear Tim!!

And it will be great to hear, new exhaust?

[napa68]

And it will be great to hear, new exhaust?

That's the plan. Considering my options right now. Certainly want something that would be true to the period. The consensus between both Eric and my engine builder the current exhaust could be costing 80-100hp.

The exhaust may also help along the engine vacuum a little bit too (4" at an idle)

[Crush]

“my engine builder the current exhaust could be costing 80-100hp.”

Nice over 500 incoming?!

[napa68]

Nice over 500 incoming?!

:naughty::naughty::naughty::naughty::naughty:

[TimG]

Merry Christmas, Tim. I can't wait to see the end product.

[napa68]

Eric finished up the carb today. I must say, I was particularly surprised and impressed as he wanted to know some VERY specific things about the build. Including........

-header primary size
-header collector size
-exhaust size
-exhaust configuration
-muffler choice

That in addition to particular engine and vehicle specs. Once again proving there are no "bolt on" parts in a build like this.

I made the choice to make it look like it had been installed early on. My mindset was to give the appearance the carb received nothing more than a carb kit.

Below, is Eric's tutorial as written on Facebook.......

"Holley 4781 850 double pumper for Tim Schuetz of Boulder Motorcar Company.

This one's destined for a "Day 2" style '68 Camaro with a pretty hairy-chested 427 that's running an old school L88 bumpstick. As such, idle vacuum is almost non-existent, so the carb needed a few tweaks to allow it to function on the snotty 427.

Idle air bypass holes were added to the primary blades to allow the curb idle throttle position to jive with the transfer slots. The idle circuit was also recalibrated to provide a suitable range of adjustment.
Boy...all that sure sounds awfully familiar. .🤔...

All that explains why it's idling at 1400+ on my test engine--I wanted to set it up close enough where Tim could install it and get it running without having to futz too much with the adjustments.

This one's set up fairly similar to the 1000HP I built for my chevelle which probably has about the same idle vacuum as Tim's 427.
I've ran the Chevelle's 1000HP on the test engine several times, and obviously when it was adjusted for a nice 900 rpm 12.5-1 idle on the test engine, it wouldn't even THINK about idling on the 496 in the Chevelle--which is precisely why carburetors have adjustment provisions. 😁👍

Oh yeah, before I forget--we sourced this core off of eBay, and it had that big blob of orange silicone sealing off the choke rod hole when we picked it up. I mentioned I planned to remove it and install a brass block-off plate but Tim said he kind'a dug the look of the silicone, so we left it on there. 😉😁"

[Xplantdad]

Eric rocks!!:headbang:

[napa68]

Eric rocks!!:headbang:

Yes he does:headbang:

[RPOLS3]

This car was crazy cool before - now it will be over the top.

[napa68]

Progress....... Happy with the preliminary pulls after getting everything broke in. Now run the valves, have a look around, check torque, and switch to Eric's carb.

Tomorrow, some tuning and power pulls

[dykstra]

Progress....... Happy with the preliminary pulls after getting everything broke in. Now run the valves, have a look around, check torque, and switch to Eric's carb.

Tomorrow, some tuning and power pulls

BOING!!!!!:biggthumpup:

[Chuck_Burg]

Good luck sleeping tonight... :grin:

[Crush]

Going to need some bigger stickier tires!!

[Too Many Projects]

Going to need some bigger stickier tires!!
He should be looking for drag radials, not bias ply's...:biggthumpup:

[TimG]

Avons do the trick, when I put them on my Cobra and took of the other tires, it pulled like crazy.

[napa68]

Once everything is back in place, the Polyglass's will help keep the guts of my original rear end where they belong. I believe it was Doug Perry's suggestion to another member, about upgrading the axles at a minimum before the sticky's. Perhaps after that, a set of M&H's would be in order. Again, just like it's the early 70's

Much of the build is old school. Certainly with different cylinder heads and camshaft, I could probably tack another 100hp onto the combination. In the name of authenticity, old school is in order.........just like the owner:grin:

[napa68]

Once the engine was broke in, the preliminary pulls yielded 530hp @ 5500 RPM (and climbing) with the shop Braswell Holley and 36 degrees of timing. On Wednesday, we bolted on Eric's carb with a plan to spin it to 7000 RPM. We did struggle with the ignition a bit (point bounce in the Roto-Faze distributor) and that limited our pulls to 6000 RPM.

Regardless........with 40 degrees of timing, the engine yielded a peak of 575hp @ 6000. The average HP from 4100 to 6000 is just under 500. Better yet, the average torque from 4100 to 6000 is almost 520 lb.ft. I think it's fair to assume once the ignition is up to par, the better part of 600hp is realistic.

Considering how outdated the camshaft and cylinder heads are, I am quite pleased with the outcome. Certainly, more modern heads and camshaft would produce some notable improvements. In the spirit of the car and the build, I am glad I went this route.

While this is not a "stock" L88, it is pretty close. There are a few concessions in the build that deviate from a spec L88.
-the 842 heads did have 2.30 intake valves installed by a previous owner. There was some blending in the bowls to accommodate that change. Otherwise, they are relatively unported.
-Roller rocker arms
-ZL1 camshaft that was reused
-Eric Jackson's Holley 850 that he built specifically for this.

Really, just an old school 12.5:1 427

I'll take he opportunity to give a shout out to Eric Jackson. He was tremendously helpful on not only the build of the carb, but also the overall package. Steve from AMS was impressed with how spot on the carb is and how the fuel curve looks under power. While not pictured, the EGT's were spot on.

I also have to give props to Steve and Chris from AMS. I have dealt with Steve for about 20 years now. The work is fantastic, he is fair in his charges, and always make these projects a joy.

[napa68]

s5rVEPkSZwg

[69M22Z]

Very nice.

[dykstra]

So bad azz!! That is music to my ears! Bravo Tim!

[Z282NV]

That is a sweet sounding motor.

[Pro Stock John]

Congrats great numbers.

I'd at least pull the axles and check them but for what they cost new, I'd seriously consider getting a fresh set.

[TimG]

Great numbers, Tim. It sounds good.

[Crush]

Miles of smiles coming, even if they are short miles!!!

[67since67]

In the name of authenticity, old school is in order.........just like the owner:grin:

Old school is cool Tim!! :headbang: Brings back memories, 50 some years ago the second design L88 in my 'ol red Chevelle would pull hard from 3,500 to 7,500, also using a 4781 Holley DP! Get that ign fixed and buzz it up!

Last month I had one of my L79s on the dyno for break in and several pulls letting that little small block sing up to the 6K redline (with a fresh Eric carb)!! Didn't want to shut it off.

Love this build! - Bill W

[Chuck_Burg]

That's so cool Tim, a sweet sound indeed! Which points are you running? I installed Blue Streak DR-2371XP points and DR-70X condenser in a Delco distributor, not sure if those will fit a Roto Faze. Granted, I'm not spinning 7,000rpm with my 496 but my buddy has good success with them on many high rpm applications.

[Too Many Projects]

Gotta love the old school cams with a lot of overlap. They may leave hp on the table, but they just SOUND mean. The 280H in my 496 has an attitude too.

[napa68]

That's so cool Tim, a sweet sound indeed! Which points are you running? I installed Blue Streak DR-2371XP points and DR-70X condenser in a Delco distributor, not sure if those will fit a Roto Faze. Granted, I'm not spinning 7,000rpm with my 496 but my buddy has good success with them on many high rpm applications.

It looks as though the Roto-Faze is using points from a Y block Ford. Originally, it uses 2 sets. 1 of them was removed and the remaining is utilized to trigger the MSD box. That is exactly what was done on the dyno (and they bounced). I am contemplating what I am going to do moving forward. The Roto-Faze is a locked distributor. In other words, no advance curve.

Certainly, I can change to something else and have and advance curve. I can utilize the stock L78 distributor and trigger the MSD with an M&H hall effect switch.....that's an option. I kinda dig the Roto-Faze. It's a good conversation piece to someone who notices it.

I have a Corvette in the shop that I need to get finished up for a customer, as well as another Corvette to finish and get up for sale, before I get back on the Camaro. I'll get the Camaro running and see how the starter likes 38-40 degrees of timing advance and then make some decisions. I never checked the timing before I took the car apart. Honestly, Paul had it running so good......I never thought to fiddle with it. My bad.

I'm really struggling to not work on the car.......

[napa68]

Another point worth noting, engine vacuum.

When the car was together before, the engine made 4" of vacuum. Not really knowing items such as ring seal, camshaft timing, and how much porting the original heads had received, is one of the reasons I elected to freshen the engine when switching to the aluminum heads. Another point worth making, is both the aluminum 842's and the iron 840's, each were converted to a 2.30 intake valve. Steve at AMS was impressed with the porting work on the iron 840's and noted that they were not all hogged out. I know when Jim Y. (A Stock) was in the engine 20 some years ago, he spent some good money on those heads (I have the receipt).

The rings and cylinders looked really good. All AMS did was hone and rering. The cam was checked for any wear, measured for lift and duration, and reinstalled at 106 degrees (as it had been previously) with a new timing chain and gear set.

On the dyno, idling at 1200 (where it had been idling previously) it now pulls 8" of vacuum. In short, that's how restrictive the stock exhaust system is on these cars. Over the summer, I finally had met John Karvonen (302mo) in person and saw his beautiful 67 L78 car. At the time, John just had header mufflers. Later on, John had gotten his Gardner system installed, and it changed the personality of the engine considerably. Mind you, that is in no disrespect to Gardner exhaust at all, it's just how inefficient the original design is. In hindsight, I probably should have changed the exhaust before diving in. I suspect the Camaro would have been silly.

On the last note, I have the original 396 short block at AMS as well. Steve is checking that over. Depending what is found, I may freshen that up. A while back, Eric Jackson had Bullet Cams grind up a duplicate of the stock 143 cam to some exacting specs. I had gotten one of them for the original motor, thinking I'd freshen it up one day in the future.

We'll see what happens.......it seems like I have been heaving money all over the place lately.

[Too Many Projects]

Just my opinion, but I would convert the Roto Faze to the M&H hall effect and eliminate the issue with points. You will be happier with an advance on the street too. That starter is not going to like 40* at start up, especially once at running temp.

And yes, you have too many toys to play with all at the same time..:laugh: What a problem to have, eh ?

[big gear head]

When I was running my distributor locked I had a separate switch under the dash that cut power to the coil. Once I had the engine spinning I would flip the switch and it would start without putting a huge load on the starter.

[VintageMusclecar]

Tim;


Thanks for the kind words and for the opportunity to be a part of this project with you, it's sincerely appreciated. :beers:



Eric

[napa68]

The ball just keeps rolling. I got a call from Steve at AMS today and he got the original 396 apart.

Great news!!!!

Everything in the short block was brand new! Bearings, rings, bores, crank journals, etc........ Venolia 11:1 pistons @ .060. There were 2 head bolts holes that needed repair, but that is really it.

The bores were heavily greased (which was more like tar now) so that took a bit to clean out. Steve just wants to drag the monkey balls through the cylinders, clean, and reassemble. I may have mentioned, the original heads look great as well. The valves and seats will get touched up and reassembled.

Looking back, it was 1 month on the 12th of January I took everything down to AMS. While the work involved with both the 396 and the 427 was not invasive whatsoever, I still feel it's killer service.

[cook_dw]

Engine looks great and strong numbers.

[napa68]

Today, I tore into the Roto-Faze dizzy. Pretty interesting mechanism inside to manage to advance curve. Even more interesting yet, I had found a phone number through some internet sleuthing. On a long shot, I called this afternoon. Low and behold........someone answered!!

I spoke to John (the diseased owners nephew). He was VERY helpful. He asked for the serial number of the dizzy. From that he can tell me how it was set up originally. From that, he is going to get me the clearance spec for the weight adjustments (to set the overall advance) and will be sending me springs to manage the curve.

What a pleasant surprise......had to share!

[scuncio]

Amazing that someone was there to support this ancient distributor. You must have some good karma….

[olredalert]

----WOW! How cool is that! There are good people out there. Sometimes you have to search a bit, but it's worth it!.....Bill S

[Too Many Projects]

Amazing that someone was there to support this ancient distributor. You must have some good karma….


NO KIDDING !! The word "amazing" got worn out in my vocabulary 10 years ago after watching a few Bachelor shows, but it certainly fits with this topic.
Tim, a number of the brass towers for the springs appear to be cut off. Are they still long enough to function properly ?

Are you going to keep points or go electronic ?

If points did he have any suggestion for high rpm use in there ?

Yeah, I know, too damn many questions....I'll shut up and wait...:blush:

[napa68]

NO KIDDING !! The word "amazing" got worn out in my vocabulary 10 years ago after watching a few Bachelor shows, but it certainly fits with this topic.
Tim, a number of the brass towers for the springs appear to be cut off. Are they still long enough to function properly ?

Are you going to keep points or go electronic ?

If points did he have any suggestion for high rpm use in there ?

Yeah, I know, too damn many questions....I'll shut up and wait...:blush:

I'm going to wait for John to get back to me. I have ordered a set of HD Ford Y block points for the time being. After reading up on a few different retrofit dist pick up's, not all of them will fire an MSD box. I bought this car for the first time back in 2013. Having said that, it's safe to say the points are at least 10 years old. In my GM distributors, I have had luck with a fresh set of points taking 7000 RPM.

On a different note (and to give credit to John at Roto-Faze), I could send the distributor back into them to have it worked over. They have a distributor machine that will turn 9000 RPM (so 4500 dist RPM) to ensure I wouldn't struggle with point bounce. BUT, they are in need of a part for it, so it's out service right now. I'll keep that idea in my back pocket.

I have the same observations about the towers for the advance springs. I'll chat with John when he gets back to me with the dist specs.

Tim

[TimG]

That's great, Tim. You are way above my pay grade on this one, I'm still working on gapping some original Corvette plugs I bought at a garage sale.

[napa68]

I'm still working on gapping some original Corvette plugs I bought at a garage sale.

:haha::haha::haha::haha::haha::haha:

[Pro Stock John]

Will you be running this car at nostalgia events, I think there are some at GLD.

[Too Many Projects]

Will you be running this car at nostalgia events, I think there are some at GLD.
Have already suggested he bring it to SCR this year. It would be right at home there.

[napa68]

Have already suggested he bring it to SCR this year. It would be right at home there.

I saw the announcement for SCR on Facebook. I am giving that some thought.:wink:

[napa68]

A little progress yesterday.........

I received this data sheet from Roto-Faze yesterday. They are sending me some parts to return the dizzy to a mechanical advance. I also got what one of my friends referred to as........."the music box is back in place"

[Too Many Projects]

Super cool !!! :worship:


That leveler is very interesting. I haven't seen one like that before yours. Have you tried using it for a complete engine/trans install ? I use the traditional long one with a chain on both ends to get enough angle. I had to use Don Yenko's method of raising the back of my '62 Impala to get the 409/TH350 in it and that works too.

[napa68]

Have you tried using it for a complete engine/trans install ?

Yes I have. It works pretty good. Most of the time, I am installing the trans separately though.

[TimG]

That looks great, Tim. I remember that being a Tonawanda stamped block, too.

[dykstra]

Very cool Tim!!

[Crush]

Thumpty, thump, thump real soon!

[napa68]

Inching up on twisting the tail. Waiting for a new front bearing for the alternator and then I should be ready to go.

I am waiting for distributor parts from Roto-Faze. Having said that, I put new points and condenser in the 170 dist and spun that on the machine today to set the dwell. Added the lightest springs I had, to bring the advance is as quick as possible. I'll map the curve to see where it really is once it's running.

Going to fire the car with the old exhaust.....making sure all is well. Then, build the new system:grin:

https://i.imgur.com/b3aw1QJh.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/kUuIS1th.jpg

[napa68]

On a different note, if one of you has an original 14" air cleaner base that has had breather tube removed (like for a double pumper) I'd be interested......

[TimG]

I can't wait to see that '68 Camaro on the road, Tim.

[napa68]

Got the old exhaust off. I'll preserve the tailpipes and hangers. The rest, off to the scrapper.

[napa68]

And this.......8B_KPJnvbXs

[Crush]

My heart just skipped a beat!!
Well done

[juliosz]

I kinda cringed at my handy-work on that exhaust pipe but when it developed a hole the size of a quarter it was either preserve or replace. Can't wait to see what the new system looks like Tim!

[Z282NV]

That looks and sounds fantastic. Looking forward to a video of your first road test.:3gears:

[RPOLS3]

Awesome-

Hey Tim - did I miss an announcement on the change of your avatar photo here..........something new in the shop.......?

[TimG]

Wow, what a beast. I like it.

[napa68]

I kinda cringed at my handy-work on that exhaust pipe but when it developed a hole the size of a quarter it was either preserve or replace. Can't wait to see what the new system looks like Tim!

I don't think you were left with too many choices. It's a weak piece......the other side is not much better. I don't know that I would have done much different Paul.

[napa68]

Awesome-

Hey Tim - did I miss an announcement on the change of your avatar photo here..........something new in the shop.......?

Nah........just playing around the other day:beers:

[dykstra]

Sounds AWESOME! I can’t wait for the drive video!!

[luzl78]

You need some m/t super scavenger headers on that beast. What a sound that would be.

[napa68]

You need some m/t super scavenger headers on that beast. What a sound that would be.

No doubt.

Like most every header I have ever installed, they need their "love taps" to fit properly. The Hookers had all the proper little dents for an effortless install (which is still a PITA on the left side).

[dykstra]

This beast is a bad mother……..shut your mouth!! LOL3gears.gif

[napa68]

Here is the exhaust fitted and tacked.

I was welding the scraps from this together yesterday to dial in the settings, and was happy with the way working and how it looked. I was able to use the original rear hangers on the rear of the mufflers. I'll replace those with some reproductions and save the originals for another day.

I must admit, I think I created my own problem for welding it up. I was always in the habit of greasing the pipes at the joints so I could get them to sit just the way I wanted. Didn't even give it a thought:rolleyes2: Today, the welder is poping a farting like hell wont have it. No adjustments made an improvement (no surprise).

I have a couple of ideas to move forward. Not excluding the idea of a local fellow who is one hell welder.....including TIG. I just may enlist the help of a professional to get the results I want.

https://i.imgur.com/s0tKQY0h.jpg

[TimG]

Great work, Tim.....

[Too Many Projects]

Use aerosol carb or brake cleaner and spray it right in the joint and blow immediately to clean the grease out.

[big gear head]

Be very careful with brake cleaner. There are many cases, including me, of people having lung problems after using brake cleaner and then welding. Look it up.

[napa68]

Be very careful with brake cleaner. There are many cases, including me, of people having lung problems after using brake cleaner and then welding. Look it up.

Exactly why I didn't!!!!

[big gear head]

Most welders prefer acetone for cleaning before welding. That's what I use now.

[napa68]

The tires I placed on order over 6 months ago finally came off of backorder. The G70-15's were my first choice over the L60's. I always kinda felt the L60's look like 10lb's of sh!t in a 5lb bag.

So, I got those mounted and balanced.

https://i.imgur.com/X4aSK3Kh.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/4O9uakTh.jpg

Back to the distributor conversation. I had installed the 170 distributor with 38 degrees total advance. Honestly, it seemed kinda soggy even after a bunch of fiddling. For grins, I put the Roto-Faze back in with the advance curve locked. In hindsight, I can see why it was locked from the get go. It starts better, the starter does not seem to mind it, and overall crisper. In hindsight, I am not surprised. The ZL1 cam is an antique, and probably does not have a ton of cylinder pressure while cranking.

After getting the ignition to where it's at, I still had some dripping fuel from the primary boosters as idle. I fiddled with the secondary throttle blade adjustment and that allowed me to close the primary throttle blades some more. That, included with lowering the primary float level 1/4 turn solved the dripping boosters. It also in turn, allowed me to idle the car down to 1000 rpm and the primary mixture screws proved to be a bit more responsive. I settled on an idle at 1150 rpm as it seems a little stable.


You could say I put the "goon tune" on the car now that the exhaust is installed. I suppose the car is finished for the most part, til the weather breaks in spring and I can road test:biggthumpup:

The sound quality is kinda crappy as I used my phone for this.

l5vP2r4qbCk

[Z282NV]

Car looks killer with the new shoes.

[dykstra]

“Goon Tune” I love it!!

[cook_dw]

Sounds mean.

[169indy]

Do you have enough Vac to operate the Power Brakes>?
curious Vac at Idle.

Sound Great, Loved seeing the Car at MCACN was it 2011, 2016 or 2019 I am sure it was one of these.

JIM

[napa68]

Do you have enough Vac to operate the Power Brakes>?
curious Vac at Idle.

Sound Great, Loved seeing the Car at MCACN was it 2011, 2016 or 2019 I am sure it was one of these.

JIM

If I raise the idle to 1250-1300, then it's plenty. Below that, I can run the booster out.

MCACN 2016 is when the car was there

[napa68]

I have the back seat out today, in order to address the rear window regulators. They always had been very tight and wanted to get them to operate like they should.

The question I have, revolves around a floor plug below the back seat. It looks as though it was never there. Is that uncommon? Perhaps taken out (or pushed out before)?

I know when Corey had the car, he replaced the rear package tray along with the trunk divider. Hence, this has been apart before. I'd be curious to see what some of you have observed. It looks as though it always was that way and I'd leave well enough alone then.

https://i.imgur.com/NyyHiVFh.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/NP3cERah.jpg

[cook_dw]

Usually the epoxy goes with the put but it would have left a mark where it was. I'd agree.. Never there so leave it that way.

[Too Many Projects]

I see a shadow of a circle around most of that hole and the orange paint near it appears to have a crescent shape.
Personally, I would put a plug in it, as that is a shopping mall door for mice to get under the seat and raise havoc. It may allow water to migrate in too, if you ever got caught in a good rain.

[Kurt S]

It should have failed the water test in the plant if missing - it probably was there. I wouldn't leave it out - damn mice.

[Too Many Projects]

"Survivor" plug. Tim should have in tomorrow.
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/q752/Stillwaterchevs/DSC00026.JPG

[cook_dw]

It should have failed the water test in the plant if missing - it probably was there. I wouldn't leave it out - damn mice.



Excellent point.. I forgot the water test..

[napa68]

Courtesy of Mitch (Too Many Projects) I now have the missing plug.

Thanks Mitch!!

[Too Many Projects]

Glad to help, Tim. Complete with vintage patina..:wink:

[dykstra]

Hey Tim, any updates or videos on this nasty sum b*&^%?

[napa68]

Hey Tim, any updates or videos on this nasty sum b*&^%?

Not really. Winter is still in full play up here:rolleyes2:

I did drive it back to my home shop before winter set back in. I'll say this......it's pretty silly:3gears:

[britgreen68]

68 LA built

[cook_dw]

brithgreen68 - what build date at LOS?

[britgreen68]

04 b

[BJCHEV396]

Just read the whole thread.Great car Tim and thanks for taking us along for the ride! I'm a following!!

[dykstra]

Any news on this beast?? Hopefully the snow has melted up dare?
I’m needing a Harry Mann L88 fix!!

[napa68]

Any news on this beast?? Hopefully the snow has melted up dare?
I’m needing a Harry Mann L88 fix!!

We've been busy campaigning our 70 Corvette, so the Camaro has been a bit neglected. I took it for a ride last week, and discovered the original throttle linkage was only allowing about 1/2 - 2/3 throttle. Updates to follow!:3gears:

[Too Many Projects]

Probably safer to leave it like that, Tim...:wink:

[L72Chevelle]

Hi Tim, any chance of getting a drive video up sometime? Thanks, Phil.

[napa68]

Hi Tim, any chance of getting a drive video up sometime? Thanks, Phil.

I think that's a possibility. I have another truck I got in this week, and need to get that photographed. That in addition to a video I need to do on the Monte Carlo SS coming up. After that, I suspect I could squeeze in a video (weather permitting)

[Big Block Bill]

I think that's a possibility. I have another truck I got in this week, and need to get that photographed. That in addition to a video I need to do on the Monte Carlo SS coming up. After that, I suspect I could squeeze in a video (weather permitting)


Monte Carlo SS? You know Rick Nelson is looking for one of those. Bill

[Too Many Projects]

Monte Carlo SS? You know Rick Nelson is looking for one of those. Bill
Rick wants and '86, I think ? This 2002 COULD be something that gets his interest. Very cool car that is still new.

[napa68]

Hi Tim, any chance of getting a drive video up sometime? Thanks, Phil.

Here you go:3gears:
zwyCE7iWsu0&t

[dykstra]

This car makes me smile!! Sounds AWESOME!! Thanks for making/posting the video.

[Crush]

Here you go:3gears:
zwyCE7iWsu0&t

Sounds like a NASCAR !!

[L72Chevelle]

Here you go:3gears:
zwyCE7iWsu0&t

Your the best Tim! Thanks

[67since67]

:Can-I-Have-It::Can-I-Have-It::Can-I-Have-It::Can-I-Have-It::Can-I-Have-It: :worship:

[TimG]

I don't know what I enjoy more, the beautiful Northern Wisconsin scenery or the roar of that L88 motor. Grumpy Jenkins would be proud of you, Tim.

[RPOLS3]

Tim - you just made my day. Thanks!

[Andy]

Nothing like rowing the gears with a Muncie! Thanks for sharing and the car sounds amazing!

[dykstra]

I just replayed this video on my tv with surround sound. Holy hell, it’s like I’m riding shot gun!
Thanks again Tim, like others have said, you made my day.

[napa68]

Courtesy of Jose (jbtech) I came up with this ZL1 fuel pump for the car.

Thanks Jose!

https://i.imgur.com/mPLUP4Vh.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/Hue9X6Mh.jpg

[enio45]

That video is crazy - great sound and performance!

Thanks for the tour and run!

['69Novajoe]

Loved the video!! Just wondering what you used to mount the camera for the inside shots while driving?

[napa68]

Loved the video!! Just wondering what you used to mount the camera for the inside shots while driving?

Just a cheap Go Pro camera holder off of Amazon. A suction cup to the window, aim the camera, and beat the car:3gears:

[napa68]

I've gotten a few smalls for the original 396 in the car. I found a fairly priced 8" damper, non dowel timing cover. Time to get this buttoned up. We'll see how time goes......perhaps I'll get this on the dyno to get it properly broken in, and make a few pulls.

[Too Many Projects]

https://s3.amazonaws.com/emoticon.activeboard.com/49776?AWSAccessKeyId=1XXJBWHKN0QBQS6TGPG2&Expires=1705536000&Signature=dUFfDinUWUsmWt4i05hHiXWRW%2FM%3D Wheew, Every time I see this thread come up and you are the poster, I'm afraid to open it and find you have made a deal to sell it. Don't ask why, it makes no sense, it just happens...:dunno: 1967 is my favorite year, but somehow this car has taken an unexplainable presence within my being.

[67since67]

^^^ I had the exact same thought Mitch....

[napa68]

While waiting for some parts on a couple of other jobs, I've been slowly putting the original 396 together. Many of the dated parts I have had (traveled with the car since the first time I owned it). A shipment from AMK has helped things along.

Still many little details ahead:naughty:

[dykstra]

Man I LOVE this car!!!!

[napa68]

I know, I know.......I said I didn't like the look of L60-15's. I saw some pics over on some of the Camaro pages on FB. Then, coincidentally enough.......they come off of backorder. I think you can figure out the rest:hmmm:

[Too Many Projects]

They're gonna look evil, wicked, mean and NASTY under that car...:drool:

[dykstra]

:headbang::beers::3gears:

[napa68]

This works for me!

[dykstra]

Looks bad azz!!!!!

[Too Many Projects]

:shocked:...:worship:...:drool:...:headbang:

[RPOLS3]

Scha-wing! Looks great,

[juliosz]

You nailed the wheel and tire choices on that beauty, Tim.....well done!

[scuncio]

Looks perfect! Are those 6” wheels?


I know, I know.......I said I didn't like the look of L60-15's. I saw some pics over on some of the Camaro pages on FB. Then, coincidentally enough.......they come off of backorder. I think you can figure out the rest:hmmm:

[napa68]

Looks perfect! Are those 6” wheels?
The rears are 7". 6's in the front.

Thanks Tony!

[dykstra]

I've gotten a few smalls for the original 396 in the car. I found a fairly priced 8" damper, non dowel timing cover. Time to get this buttoned up. We'll see how time goes......perhaps I'll get this on the dyno to get it properly broken in, and make a few pulls.

Have you decided to flog this on the dyno yet?:headbang:

[napa68]

Have you decided to flog this on the dyno yet?:headbang:

Nah. I've got plenty of irons in the fire right now. Not excluding the thought of selling a couple of things off. Tracey and I are working on expanding our storage business. As you can imagine, that's not cheap

[Donnie]

need a side shot to get a good look at this.

[napa68]

need a side shot to get a good look at this.

Like this?

[dykstra]

I could look at this car all day long!

[TimG]

Me too.

[olredalert]

----Me three!....Bill S

[RPOLS3]

I could look at this car all day long!

and listen to it all day long too.............

[Steve Shauger]

Absolutely love this car. You seem to be constantly improving the car and it shows! Well done.....

[Too Many Projects]

If it just had a vent window, I would consider making it my screen saver....:wink: :grin:








And I still didn't win the lottery last night...:frown:

[L72Chevelle]

Like this?

IMHO perfect stance and wheel tire combo! thanks for posting Tim.

[BJCHEV396]

Like this?

'68's have always been my favorite first gens and this one is effen perfecto mundo!!!

[napa68]

56 years old and getting better each day:wink:

[napa68]

A while back, I scrolling through Facebook Marketplace and found this NOS NAPA distributor. Back in the day, NAPA had it's own line of high performance parts (much like many others such as Sears).

I thought WTF? That would be a cool conversation piece. Fast forward to today. I'm waiting on parts for a couple of cars in the shop, plus waiting on getting a car delivered (more to come on that). Being bored out of my gourd, I thought I'd check out the distributor. This thing is cool! Very adjustable, and high quality. Check out the plating on the points and condenser! I fooled around with the advance curve features. Is that ever clever!

I think this may find it's way into the L88

https://i.imgur.com/nG8HAq5h.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/W9vyi8Nh.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/pRVZ2kDh.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/jp1QcxFh.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/wYDeVpXh.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/HwRwzrth.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/2Ae3tLHh.jpg

[napa68]

Here is the literature enclosed with the distributor....
https://i.imgur.com/wS0heGFh.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/6WlEB8Gh.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/lxnghBnh.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/ZD1URb9h.jpg

[dykstra]

Very cool Tim!!

[big gear head]

I sure wish I had a distributor machine like that. Someday maybe.

Once you get the curve set up it's great, but it's a pain when you are leaning over the fender trying to make changes when the weights and springs are in the bottom.

[juliosz]

Back in the day, Echlin made some really high quality ignition parts. Cool piece Tim!

[napa68]

Once you get the curve set up it's great, but it's a pain when you are leaning over the fender trying to make changes when the weights and springs are in the bottom.

It's easier to pull the distributor IMO. Right now, the Roto Phaze is locked at 40 degrees. This will be a step in the right direction

[Chuck_Burg]

That is so cool!!!

[Steve Shauger]

Another great find and pretty trick!! Look forward to seeing this installed...

[Crush]

Will this make it faster?!!!!

[napa68]

Will this make it faster?!!!!

Lol.....probably not:3gears:

[napa68]

While I'm waiting for a customer to pick their car up, I thought I'd get going on a little L88 maintenance.

The valve lash has HARDLY moved. Int .019 cold, Exh .021 cold. I have my thoughts about the plugs, anyone else care to chime in?
https://i.imgur.com/zQ7jBfbh.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/uGbAi8kh.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/u6rjd4oh.jpg

[olredalert]

----Switch to Autolite plugs. I used them in Red Alert (780hp) and hardly ever had to change them....Bill S

[juliosz]

Looks like it needs an Italian tune-up Tim!!

[Crush]

Let me borrow it for a few weeks and I’ll figure it out ��

[MosportGreen66]

Tim, they're smoked huh! We're running NGK's in all big block non show cars. Impressive difference...

[1967 4K]

I started using NGK in my L78. Will never go back to another brand.

[napa68]

Despite the lead stains / deposits, I thought they were a little lean.

My engine builder swears by the NGK's. He kinda shakes his head on a restoration engine and I install AC's:laugh:

I finally installed the ZL1 fuel pump yesterday. I must admit, Chuck got my attention when he burned down his 496. Not digging the fitment of the fuel line as it's right next to the lower hose. I'm thinking I need to research some period fuel line configurations. Also giving credit to Chuck, I feel inspired to add a nice matching Sun blue line fuel pressure gauge.

You guys have any neat pics or ideas? I've see more than a few Motion installs that have nothing more that rubber line after the pump. That is not an option for me.

https://i.imgur.com/4MWFTbQh.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/DWkFuVCh.jpg

[67since67]

Tim, when I built my Chevelle race car in 1973 I mounted the fuel pressure gauge in a 2" chrome tail pipe extension mounted on the cowl vent panel. (Center of this lousy half century old image). No fuel line inside the car :no:

[William]

Here's how the factory configured it.

[Chuck_Burg]

The ZL1 pump looks so good! That would be very appropriate for my build as well. I like what William posted. The 90* fitting with the pump clocked a little may work in your application. I made my own line, which still took me three tries with the engine out of the car. As you can see, mine snakes around the lower radiator hose :laugh:

I have seen photos of motion cars that used the factory hard line from the fuel pump connected to a generic chromed holley dual feed line with a rubber hose. I used a copper oil pressure line for my fuel pressure gauge because I felt it looked the period.

FWIW I believe NHRA does allow a mechanical fuel pressure gauge in the cabin if it is a steel braided hose, I've seen drag cars this way :dunno:

[dykstra]

FWIW. I’m a fan of the NGK’s too. I run them in my Camaro and my boat with a blown big block chebby.:beers:

[dykstra]

:frown:

[Too Many Projects]

I recently bought a 2015 Toyota highlander with 156k on the clock. It ran OK, but I pulled a couple plugs in the left bank to see if they had been replaced in the past. NOPE, the factory installed NGK Iridium plugs were still in there...:rolleyes2: The center electrode was worn about .004, but for the mileage was amazingly intact. It does run better, with improved throttle response and power.
Getting at the plugs on the right bank required removing the entire intake system and gymnastics to reach under the cowl...:crazy: GGRRRR...

[Kurt S]

I used a copper oil pressure line for my fuel pressure gauge because I felt it looked the period.

I would *NEVER* do that. Never use copper on oil or fuel lines. I almost burned a test car to the ground when the copper oil pressure line broke, dumping oil onto the exhaust manifolds. Lucky.
Another test car did burn to the ground when the copper fuel pressure line work hardened during a cold weather test trip. The engineer got out, but lost all his clothes, including his jacket. You could see the burn spot on the highway up by Grayling for many years.
You'd think the techs would know not to use copper....

[napa68]

I had gotten a referral for a good automotive photographer from Colin Comer. He was here yesterday to shoot 4 cars for me. While we were fighting harsh sun most of the day, we managed to still get some decent pics IMO:grin:

https://i.imgur.com/iWbdXTIh.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/D6nG18mh.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/ceG6i2ah.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/jtXf1rdh.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/0W8Gh8hh.jpg

[dykstra]

Looks FANTASTIC Tim!!!

[TimG]

I love the Black Plates.

[enio45]

Fantastic pics.......

[Mr70]

Beauty! :)

[olredalert]

----My favorite pic is the straight on front one. Love seeing the headers and (I think) deep pan. Looks so cool! They are all great pics though....Bill S

[67since67]

That car sits just right!....Old school Day2 at it's best!!

[Too Many Projects]

:eek2:....:drool:....:worship:....:Can-I-Have-It:

For some UN-explainable reason, I feel like I'll be a basket case when you sell this beautiful automobile...:tongue:

[napa68]

----My favorite pic is the straight on front one. Love seeing the headers and (I think) deep pan. Looks so cool! They are all great pics though....Bill S

That is a GM deep pan in the car. It came with the car. I'm shocked at what they go for today:blush:

[WILMASBOYL78]

That is a GM deep pan in the car. It came with the car. I'm shocked at what they go for today:blush:

I remember buying those pans from the local Chevy parts guy back in the day...they were a great part and not a lot of money.

[Z282NV]

I read a post you made on Bring a Trailer for another blue L78 that is for sale thinking of bringing your Camaro back to stock looking. Please get that out of your mind immediately, this Camaro is absolutely perfect just the way it is. I do prefer 69's but if I ever had the funds to buy this 68 I would not hesitate. She is a keeper in my books.

[napa68]

Please get that out of your mind immediately, this Camaro is absolutely perfect just the way it is. I do prefer 69's but if I ever had the funds to buy this 68 I would not hesitate. She is a keeper in my books.

Thanks......I appreciate that. As many of you may know, I really like stock survivor type cars. But, my car stirs me inside:naughty:

[Mr70]

As my neighbor says,it's all about the drip.

[Too Many Projects]

Thanks......I appreciate that. As many of you may know, I really like stock survivor type cars. But, my car stirs me inside:naughty:
Just keep your eyes on the swinging watch and repeat, leave the Camaro as is...leave the Camaro as is...:eek:
https://i.pinimg.com/736x/d8/94/2b/d8942bb0a57cb29e33ae915068b41f0e.jpg

[napa68]

As my neighbor says,it's all about the drip.

sounds like some advice I was given in my 20's:rolleyes2:

[67since67]

I've experienced an ear to ear grin in this car....leave it as is Tim!! :headbang:

[TimG]

I think this car in its Day 2 form is really cool. I understand the temptation to go back to stock exhaust manifolds on the original engine with the smog pump, but this car would be a blast to drive. The 1968 model year is my favorite for some reason, I don't know why.

[luzl78]

I think this car in its Day 2 form is really cool. I understand the temptation to go back to stock exhaust manifolds on the original engine with the smog pump, but this car would be a blast to drive. The 1968 model year is my favorite for some reason, I don't know why.

Gotta have the vent window.

[juliosz]

I think this car in its Day 2 form is really cool. I understand the temptation to go back to stock exhaust manifolds on the original engine with the smog pump, but this car would be a blast to drive. The 1968 model year is my favorite for some reason, I don't know why.

68 is my favorite as well. For me, the lines are so clean especially when the side glass is down.

[1967 4K]

What size are the rear tires?

[napa68]

What size are the rear tires?

L60-15's on a 7" rim

[scuncio]

Sigh...such a beautiful car.

[dykstra]

Agreed!! One of my favorites!!

[napa68]

I have to report abroad (as some of you already know), the HM Camaro has moved on to it's new owner. We have been speaking for the last 2-3 months, and struck a deal recently. In our discussions, the new owner and I created a nice rapport. It seems to me he appreciates what the car was originally, and more so what it is today. I am hoping he joins the site, and keeps everyone apprised of the status (or progress) of the car.

I feel he is going to be a great caretaker of the car. As you can imagine, I have left the door open to get the car back for the 4th time:grin:

No surprise........ I have something else in the works:biggthumpup:

[luzl78]

It’s hard to replace the condition and especially the history of the car.

[dykstra]

Bitter sweet for sure.