69 Z/28 Day II Project (Air Force Brat)

[NorCam]

Still trying to find some NOS outer window felts before I start putting the interior back together, but good to be back working on the car today. I just installed the 302 callouts on the new hood, and have started to button up the motor. I'm working to find a good spot for the vacuum can and the CVR pump before I start plumbing the Hurst line loc solenoid onto the inner fender. Time-consuming work but the long weekend is coming up for us here and the weather looks like crap. That's good as I'll be out in the shop for the next 4 days and should get lots done. Still need to figure out what breather I am going to run on this setup. I'm thinking I need to find a stock 302 chrome breather.

https://i.ibb.co/THvXVRB/IMG-6950.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/1L8fS6J/IMG-6957.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/gtxJvR2/IMG-6956.jpg

[X66 714]

7729998 outer window felts in case you don't have the number. Some on e-bay...Joe

[cruiserofland]

I dig those plug wire clamps :beers:

[NorCam]

Joe,

I think the (3) part numbers for window fuzzies are 7725935 7725934 7729998 for the complete set. I have bought two sets from members here before and prefer to try that route first as I am not a fan of eBay these days and really try to avoid it. The rear quarter fuzzies are the 2 that are really needed ahead of installing the rear side panels and seats.

[rlw68]

I think the (3) part numbers for window fuzzies are 7725935 7725934 7729998 for the complete set

Can the outer fuzzies be replaced with the windows in?

BTW, whad up with that alternator bracket :rolleyes2:

[X66 714]

Joe,

I think the (3) part numbers for window fuzzies are 7725935 7725934 7729998 for the complete set. I have bought two sets from members here before and prefer to try that route first as I am not a fan of eBay these days and really try to avoid it. The rear quarter fuzzies are the 2 that are really needed ahead of installing the rear side panels and seats.

Didn't read it right. Thought you were just looking for the ones for the doors....Joe

[NorCam]

Can the outer fuzzies be replaced with the windows in?

BTW, whad up with that alternator bracket :rolleyes2:

Mr.Gasket bracket and use of another Day 2 part. It's embossed too but you can't read it in that shot.

As for the fuzzies...I'm not in any rush here so I'll put the felts in and make any final adjustments to the quarter glass before any of the rear upholstery goes back together. All good...and I have my hands full with the brakes and the engine bay right now.

[NorCam]

I definitely liked it better when I could work around the front end with no fenders in the way. One day putting things back together and my back is already telling me I'm getting old. I have a restored UH Coded radiator for this car but opted to install the HBC 4-core unit to help keep this solid roller motor running cool. I was pleasantly surprised this NOS shroud fit the radiator with the fan blades also being centered. As seen below, the headlamps are pre-assembled and I'm also using the T3 lamps that Fred sent me along with the car. I'll install these tomorrow and then I'm onto the front grill. I'm sorta curious to see how it all fits after making some more adjustments out at Ron's shop.

https://i.ibb.co/yhBwM9g/IMG-6962.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/CnhYrbM/IMG-6964.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/3CB3FXT/IMG-6966.jpg

[DW31S]

Definitely not knocking, just curious about the worm clamps; nothing with a “vintage vibe” you like? I’ve always had good luck and dig the two-wire style. BTW, the car/build is off the charts, Bro.!

[Too Many Projects]

Can the outer fuzzies be replaced with the windows in?



Yes, the down stop bracket will need to be removed to allow the glass to go below the slots for the screws to be installed. Hence the need to wait with the interior panels.

[NorCam]

Not really sure what I'm going to do with clamps yet Dave. I plan to push this motor hard and need effective clamping force and something I can absolutely trust. Especially when my cruises are often through the Alberta Rockies and nowhere close to a parts store or a deck truck. Lots of twisties and elevation changes around here, and no help within 50-75 miles. (lol)

Whatever I end up using has to include function over form.:scholar:

Find me something with a vintage vibe that can handle some serious abuse and I'll look at it?

[NorCam]

I dig those plug wire clamps :beers:

I've always used these Matt. They attach using the valve screws and keep the wires groomed while looking clean and simple. Made by Taylor wires. Taylor Cable 42502

[DW31S]

Not really sure what I'm going to do with clamps yet Dave. I plan to push this motor hard and need effective clamping force and something I can absolutely trust. Especially when my cruises are often through the Alberta Rockies and nowhere close to a parts store or a deck truck. Lots of twisties and elevation changes around here, and no help within 50-75 miles. (lol)

Whatever I end up using has to include function over form.:scholar:

Find me something with a vintage vibe that can handle some serious abuse and I'll look at it?
I’ve always had great success with the two-wire style. I’m not doing any twisties, but I’m beating the living snot out of it in a straight line and really get frowned upon if I leak/leave water on the track. Lots of engine warm/cool cycles in what I do and nary a failure.

[NorCam]

Back on the tools today with a few things to be completed over the weekend. Under the car goes the NMW safety loop followed by the Hurst roll control and some plumbing of the front lines. I have now picked a spot for the line loc solenoid and also installed the Vacuum pump to support power brakes in the car. The pump is mounted in behind the headlight and an extra vac can is mounted to the inner fender. Finally, I also installed an NOS voltage regulator and the horn relay. Having a blast finishing up some of the little things up front. Hope you're all having a great weekend too?

https://i.ibb.co/R20SNgV/IMG-6988.jpg

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[Xplantdad]

Awesomely cool-and awesome :) :headbang:

[dykstra]

Looking great!!

[Bernhard]

Are the factory style clamps prone to failure?

[NorCam]

Original Wittek clamps were much better (thicker and stronger) quality, and the repop clamps flat out suck IMO. I've seen them fail on two other cars and I've had the towers break as well the bolts snapping in two when installing them. Typical low-quality off-shore crap metal and wouldn't put them on a grocery getter.

Enough on clamps now...Moving on here.

[NorCam]

Was boogying along here this afternoon and got the lights and the grill installed before I started installing the bumper brackets. It was then that my phone lit up. It was my wife saying it was coffee time, and that she baked some fresh scones. Needless to say, I dropped the tools and headed inside. (lol)

https://i.ibb.co/9TNvch8/IMG-6999.jpg

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https://i.ibb.co/kS0PCyJ/IMG-7014.jpg

[NorCam]

Still have a few hours to play around with the front end tonight, but my son Devon got involved this afternoon and helped me get the front bumper installed and aligned nicely. Might still try to tweak it a little...but the fit is very good to this point. Heading out to take those roller wheels off there now.

https://i.ibb.co/2g25YzV/IMG-7016.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/dQsRdwV/IMG-7017.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/D7592P1/IMG-7019.jpg

[NorCam]

Finished up the front clip earlier tonight and added the NOS spoiler. I then put the A/R wheels back on to complete the look and will be back at it here tomorrow as the recent progress has me motivated once again. Speaking of progress...it's been just over 10 months now since I started tearing this car down for its restoration. Should be all done well before we hit the 1-year mark. Thanks to Covid I guess?

https://i.ibb.co/cJQhF8d/IMG-7031.jpg

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[BJCHEV396]

Saweeet Graeme!

[dykstra]

Looks awesome!!

[TimG]

WOW, that is beautiful.

[markinnaples]

Man, that's looking great. Mind if I steal a couple of your pics for Facebook?

[napa68]

Dead sexy!!!!:worship:

........and I'm not talking about you GW!:no:

[Astock]

Nice job, looks really good.

[olredalert]

----Great front bumper fitment!!!.....Bill S

[Zedder]

Great job Graeme!

[Crush]

Your vision and execution of this build has been outstanding. The car is going to do well at cruises and car shows!
Well done.

[scuncio]

Sure turned out nice. Is that a GM front bumper?

[NorCam]

Sure turned out nice. Is that a GM front bumper?

Yes, Tony. An original that Ron spent some time on it to cure some warping that was present. Fits fairly well now for a 50-year-old bumper and has a little character to it.

[R68GTO]

I really like the fitment of that rear tire/wheel combo. Can you tell me the wheel size & backspace along with tire size?

[Z282NV]

Great work on this Camaro:biggthumpup:. I bet you can't wait to take the first rip down the road with it!:3gears:

[NorCam]

I really like the fitment of that rear tire/wheel combo. Can you tell me the wheel size & backspace along with tire size?

Jim, the rears are American VN30958561 Torq-Thrust Original Silver in 8.5" width and 3.75" backspace. Tires are Pro Trac #72146 in the old N50/15 size.

Great work on this Camaro:biggthumpup:. I bet you can't wait to take the first rip down the road with it!:3gears:

You know it. In just a few weeks, it will rumble! :biggthumpup:

[bbbenny]

Graeme, Your projects, are nothing but pure works of art! BBBenny:eek2::eek2:

[NorCam]

Graeme, Your projects, are nothing but pure works of art! BBBenny:eek2::eek2:

Thanks! I'm trying here Benny...I'm trying. :youguysrock:

[NorCam]

Spent some time swapping out the narrow traction bars for the correct era square bars from Lakewood. I have some 4* wedges coming and will hold off tightening things up until they get here. I haven't used the wedges before so I'm not totally sure where they go in relation to the lower insulators? I'm assuming they slide in from the rear (underside) and go between the lower traction bar mounting plate and the rubber insulator?

In any case, here's what the new square bars will end up looking like under the car. I'll finish up some pictures after I get the wedges installed and set the suspension with weight on the car. Inching closer here.

https://i.ibb.co/4JKrcd7/IMG-7130.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/C8r2mxh/IMG-7120.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/C7C0G7B/IMG-7119.jpg

[rszmjt]

Graeme, The wedges are actually designed & used to go on top of springs to maintain the correct pinion angle on cars that sit high or lifted 4x4 application. If your using them to change the traction bar angle I would get some deep/ long nuts, (I think they are 5/16 UNF ) to replace the lower Centre spring nut, so that the lower cushion can still be used. The thickness of the wedges will probably pull the stock short nut out of the lower spring insulator/cushion, causing the traction bar not to be located properly. If the Centre spring bolt has been trimmed off just below the thin stock nut, you will have to get new center spring bolts to maintain thread perch length with the deep nuts, , Standens in Calgary has them BTW.

[rlw68]

Spent some time swapping out the narrow traction bars for the correct era square bars from Lakewood. I have some 4* wedges coming and will hold off tightening things up until they get here. I haven't used the wedges before so I'm not totally sure where they go in relation to the lower insulators? I'm assuming they slide in from the rear (underside) and go between the lower traction bar mounting plate and the rubber insulator?


Do you have the install instructions? On step 9, there is some info regarding the wedges.

195415

LOL, I took the traction bars OFF mine

:shocked:

[NorCam]

Thanks for the info on the wedges and on the center spring nuts. I was going to look at those bolts to ensure they in fact centered up into the locator holes to center things up before tightening anything down. Found a set of NOS window felts today and will try and get those onto the car this week so I can get to the interior this weekend as well. Lots to do here still...but trying to stay on it.

Summit order arrives tomorrow.

[chevyandpontiac]

this is just plain fantastic. Love that you now have the square lakewoods for it.

[NorCam]

On the way to my shop to pick up a FedEx air shipment that just came in from Massachusetts. Another member here was kind enough to share an NOS set of window felts so that I can finish up the side glass and start installing the interior. Time to bring on some yellow Houndstooth. Thanks, Jim P.

https://i.ibb.co/9y79NcD/Felts2.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/P9y7r5c/Felts1.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/1sSPj1x/Felts2b.jpg

[Too Many Projects]

You don't really need any special long nuts, if you need to extend it longer. Just add another nut or 2 to get what you need. A tiny drop of loc-tite on the bolt where the nut will seat and be tightened against the previous nut will insure it to not come loose.

Good deal on getting the sweeps you were looking for..:biggthumpup:

[NorCam]

The DZ302 block arrived in Calgary overnight and I went to pick it up this morning. Big thanks to Larry Christensen for supplying me with this V0214DZ block, a nice 1178 crank, windage tray, oil pan, and timing cover. Also, a big thanks for taking the time to crate it all up and dropping it off at the shippers' dock. Here are the parts before being rough assembled and stored away for a future rebuild. Just have to order a cam, lifters and a set of pistons and rods so this DZ302 build will be ready to go.

https://i.ibb.co/vkCn2tv/IMG-7173.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/yPtp1Fb/IMG-7188.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/KXzn8tk/IMG-7191.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/DtvrjhX/IMG-7194.jpg

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[Xplantdad]

Larry is a great guy!! :biggthumpup:

[napa68]

Nice score Graeme!

[Z282NV]

Every time I come around here there is a new surprise. This thread better not end or else a lot of us will be going into deep depression.

[NorCam]

I really don't think there are many surprises left in the box. Just trying to finish things up now and keep it clean. The driveshaft was rebuilt, balanced, and painted up today. I should have it installed sometime tomorrow between working on the interior and a few other things. I need to try and stay focused on tasks or it seems like I lose some traction. The car might look real close to being finished but there are still so many little things left to do.

https://i.ibb.co/FmDSfJ7/IMG-7213.jpg

[NorCam]

Figured I better finish installing the square Lakewood's with the 4* wedges before installing the driveshaft. The spring bolts are 3/8" too short to go through the wedges with a longer nut so I'm going to get new spring bolts tomorrow and add longer nuts to center it down through the rubber isolators and into the holes in the mounting plates. Once I get these buttoned-up I can install the driveshaft and the loop. One little win at a time.


https://i.ibb.co/2nS1vN3/IMG-7229.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/Fqfc0hg/IMG-7230.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/y5HKSnK/IMG-7232.jpg

[NorCam]

Went to pick up some new bolts for the springs today. These are 2.0" UHL but they are 3/8" diameter vs the originals which were 5/16". Hoping I can drill the springs out for the larger bolt provided the steel isn't hardened? I don't want to pull the springs out again just to drill the holes 1/16" bigger.

https://i.ibb.co/RNXTxmc/IMG-7249.jpg

[Too Many Projects]

You're probably done by now, but spring steel is rather hard. Just keep the drill speed slow and use cutting oil. You'll be fine.

[rszmjt]

Graeme- Standens should have the correct spring bolts

[NorCam]

These came from Standens Mike.

I was there yesterday and asked for 5/16" x 2" UHL and some new guy came back saying he only had 1.500" UHL in a 5/16" which is what I already had. As he knew this wasn't what I asked for, he just gave me the 3/8" x 2" bolts in case I could make them work. (Larry & Steve were both busy when I was there).

After seeing how much of a PITA this was going to be to drill the springs for the larger diameter bolt, I called Travis up earlier today and explained that I needed 1/2" Fillister Head center bolts in a 5/16" size but that I needed something longer than 1.50" UHL. He totally got it and asked me to drop back in as he found some 4" long bolts with the correct 1/2" Fillister head that I could cut down. He also gave me some hardened 3/8" washers and spacers along with some double nuts for the bottom but won't need the spacers or washers as they are too big.

I also checked Bolt Supply looking for a deeper barrel nut but there wasn't anything in fine thread so I'll try this stuff out tonight and see how it all fits together. I should be able to McGuiver something. (lol)

https://i.ibb.co/DbBmb0H/IMG-7259.jpg

[Tracker1]

Wow. A question purely out of uninformed curiosity, but looking back through this thread you have spent a lot of time on traction bar "geometry", bolts, angles, U bolts, heights etc. Was it this complicated to set up traction bars in 1969 (asking folks who were there back in the day)? Or are you looking for the suspension to do something more "specific" than the Lakewood technology was able to do 40-50 years ago? Fascinating stuff, but I would have long ago pitched it all in the garbage can hahahaha :) You're a patient and driven man obviously - which is what makes this build so interesting.

[NorCam]

Wow. A question purely out of uninformed curiosity, but looking back through this thread you have spent a lot of time on traction bar "geometry", bolts, angles, U bolts, heights etc. Was it this complicated to set up traction bars in 1969 (asking folks who were there back in the day)? Or are you looking for the suspension to do something more "specific" than the Lakewood technology was able to do 40-50 years ago? Fascinating stuff, but I would have long ago pitched it all in the garbage can hahahaha :) You're a patient and driven man obviously - which is what makes this build so interesting.

Nope...

I think most people back in the day would have just slapped the bars in, tightened up the bolts and went out and tortured the car. Some of those people broke lots of $h*t, some never got them to hook up right, and some likely experimented in similar fashion while learning along the way.

I am OK with tearing back into the suspension if it means I am adding another cool piece to the puzzle or scooping the right Day 2 part. That has happened more than once already...but it's all good. Got nowhere to go with this Z/28 at the moment so I might as well dial it in tight before I bring it out of the box!

And it's getting there...:scholar:

[NorCam]

Got out to spend a few hours working on the car while finishing up the suspension today. Wedges are now installed, trac bars are roughed in on both sides, and I flipped the bases around on the airbags to help clear the rear straps on the Lakewoods. Once that was finished up I installed the driveshaft and bolted the NMW safety loop up through the floor. Since the bolts came up under the seat pan, I drilled the top plate with a hole saw and dropped the washers and nuts down into the cavity to conceal the hardware once the carpet goes back in. I'll load the suspension in the AM and will then make some final adjustments.

https://i.ibb.co/LS9v162/IMG-7283.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/Q6Yy4s5/IMG-7285.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/6wt74HG/IMG-7277.jpg

[R68GTO]

Looks fantastic Graeme!

[NorCam]

Lot's of little things on the docket today. Once the shop is tidied up, I need to nip the length from the bolts on the airbags, put the wheels back on the car, and get all the hardware torqued to spec. Then I want to get the ground straps onto the motor, install the clutch rods and get the wiring to the solenoid and starter finished up along with the remaining wires to the battery posts & ignition so that I can fire this thing up. Planning to bleed the brakes tomorrow and get that out of the way also. Guess I'm going to need some stop-and-go power when I roll it outside to warm up those headers in the days ahead.

From there I am onto the interior to get the door panels fitting better. I mocked up one side and installed the door seal the other day, and I am really not digging these reproduction latex OER seals or the molded Al Knoch deluxe door panels which have a plastic backing. The panels do not want to sit down over the thick rubber blocks of these seals and are going to require some thinning of the rubber blocks to bring the panels into the right position and allow them to drop down over the tops of the doors. I kind of expected this and it's all about getting things to fit perfectly so I can get the interior looking just right. More on this battle when I get it in the win category.

(a·hem - a-nal) :grin:

https://i.ibb.co/0frH7Zq/IMG-7210.jpg

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https://i.ibb.co/QYZCcjj/IMG-7234.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/NVL3LY1/Junk-Seals.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/HKyBPs4/Too-Thick.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/JvKy8Jk/IMG-7238.jpg

[NorCam]

Suspension is finished and adjusted. Next up is the engine wiring. I'll clean the smudges off the tank when I'm ready for final cleaning.

https://i.ibb.co/gPdM1yT/IMG-7298.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/3F5jkfd/IMG-7302.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/Jp5T6JB/IMG-7303.jpg

[big gear head]

Just wondering, is it possible to spray paint or something inside those traction bar tubes to prevent rust? Or is that primer that I see instead of bare metal?

[NorCam]

Primed and painted yellow inside Freddie. There is nothing at all for bare metal.

[frankk]

On a humerous note...... if I had that sticker on the axle tube of my car I would change the O to a U.lol lol

[dykstra]

I’m needing a yellow 1969 Z-28 fix………any updates Graeme?

[NorCam]

My business has kind of blown up over the past while as we emerge from the pandemic lockdowns. Seems commercial enterprise is ramping up and that's very good for us. As the owner, I've been so involved with things recently, that I haven't spent much time on the car? I did get out to button up the bottom of the car over the weekend and I've also been working a bit on the interior. Other than that...I am really close. I'm trying to clear my plate for the remainder of the week to help get this finished up. Today is all paperwork for me, but Thursday thru Sunday will be spent on the car to get it running and rolling under its own power.

Here's the exterior & underside of the car as most of it is now buttoned up completely. Just added an MSD mini starter to it the other day and wired that up along with the battery leads and the front lighting harnesses. Also added some low-tension hood springs so I'm less reliant on the prop rod unless it's windy out. I need to add a couple of ground straps to the motor, adjust the clutch and bleed the brakes before it's ready to fire.

Yup...really close.:worship:

https://i.ibb.co/prVc7Ky/IMG-7456.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/wQbtHK5/IMG-7452.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/svrwN5L/IMG-7450.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/HCNwdwZ/IMG-7458.jpg

[frankk]

Graeme how did you get the battery cables to fit with the battery orientation?

[NorCam]

Graeme how did you get the battery cables to fit with the battery orientation?

That's just a temporary battery for testing purposes...but the cables would appear to fit without any concern.

[Z282NV]

The car looks just awesome :beers:. I am not too familiar with the extra pins on the hood latch. Is that just for the stinger hood?

[NorCam]

The car looks just awesome :beers:. I am not too familiar with the extra pins on the hood latch. Is that just for the stinger hood?

Those pins (hood levellers) are for support so that there's something to support the centre structure of the hood when the sides are pinned down. They will also keep the hood from sagging over time. I'll take the foams off once I get the pins powder-coated black. They are zinc right now so I covered them with some foam as they stood out too much.

[NorCam]

Slowly but surely I am winning all of the little battles as I get near to finishing up on this car. That also means going over everything again to verify I am happy with things and finding some items that just aren't good enough. Like yesterday for example. I pulled the shifter linkages back out, tweaked the tunnel for another 1/4" of clearance and adjusted the rods to fit better. I now have the shifter working perfectly. I also set up the clutch pedal which reminded me that I forgot to clearance the fork arm before putting it into the bell housing. Mini die grinder worked perfect to trim the upper web on the clutch fork arm and gain the clearance needed.

Finally, I terminated all the ground wires, added all the bulbs to the harnesses, repaired one park lamp socket and powered everything up so I could check the electrical system before firing the car this weekend. Happy to report all but two dash lamps worked and those I will change out tomorrow. Radio works, horn works, wipers are good to go, heater blower is good and there does not appear to be any electrical issues anywhere on the car. I have a few more wires to terminate tomorrow and then I'll get the brake system bled. I'm shooting to fire it up and roll it out on the 4th of July with open headers. After that it'll be the push to dial in the door panels and finish up the interior.

https://i.ibb.co/R7LKZnL/IMG-7008.jpg
Original T3 lamps courtesy of the previous owner.

https://i.ibb.co/VM7FW6j/IMG-7517.jpg
Powered up with lights on for the first time in nearly 35 years.

https://i.ibb.co/yS7FWQj/IMG-7518.jpg
Added courtesy lights under the dash and still need to add some bulbs to the gauges.

https://i.ibb.co/n0pqnts/IMG-7520.jpg
Brake lights and signals all tested and working perfectly. Only new harness is the engine bay.

[luv2sixty9]

It's got a pulse....Hopefully tomorrow it comes alive! Awesome job!

[napa68]

Really looking good Graeme!

[NorCam]

Thanks...

Laughing here as I contemplate the final location of the tach. To be honest, I never thought I'd spend so much time trying to figure out where I'd ultimately mount the thing. Well, it's decided now. I mounted it Halo style atop the pillar pad and really like it up there. Just figured out all the wire lengths and got them ran under the dash. Next up is the MSD ignition box which is hidden away in the glove box. I still need to wire the Line Loc switch/solenoid and will also mount a reverse switch down on the Muncie case. Brakes will have wait until tomorrow at the rate I am going with wiring.

https://i.ibb.co/HNzXhhH/IMG-7523.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/rwj5mC5/IMG-7524.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/VpvQKqT/IMG-7526.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/5FCf67n/IMG-7528.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/5Lfd5Kh/IMG-7527.jpg

[NorCam]

Now I remember why I left the aftermarket under-dash wiring until the end. Because I hate working on my back and twisting around under the dash to add switches, ignition boxes, tachs and extras. If I see one more pink, green, red or brown wire I'm gonna open a bottle of whiskey. Then nothing gets done until Monday?

OK...maybe it's BEER time! It's 5:00 O'Clock out east right?

[Too Many Projects]

Now I remember why I left the aftermarket under-dash wiring until the end. Because I hate working on my back and twisting around under the dash to add switches, ignition boxes, tachs and extras. If I see one more pink, green, red or brown wire I'm gonna open a bottle of whiskey. Then nothing gets done until Monday?

OK...maybe it's BEER time! It's 5:00 O'Clock out east right?


Sounds like it's time to eat...you sound hangry..:headbang:
THEN it's beer time, well for you. I'm not allowed to have that anymore. I was told I get in too much trouble...or was it create too much trouble...:dunno:

[chevyman0429]

First thanks Graeme for taking the time to share this amazing build with us all! Second I loooooove the attention to detail and the day 2 look being executed on this killer bow tie.

[NorCam]

Thanks for the feedback. :headbang:

Had to run for a few parts this morning and came back to button up the brake hoses from the vacuum pump to the booster. At this elevation & air density, the pump maxes out about -18 inches as shown on the gauge here. I was going to mount a small gauge up on the cowl vent but decided against that look for now, and installed a gauge on the vacuum can instead. It's been sitting here for an hour w/o any bleed down so all appears well with making some decent stopping power given the fact the cam is a bit large for a power brakes application. I think this pump will have helped the cause.

https://i.ibb.co/bLrSbmt/IMG-7538.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/r5tQWH4/IMG-7537.jpg

[NorCam]

Well...I was gonna fire it up today but these thunder boomers may have changed that direction for the time being. Now that I am finished with the bulk of the underdash work I figured it was time to crawl out of there so I installed the rear side panels, seat belts and those bright yellow rear seats. Starting to come alive in there now. I'll fire it later on when this weather clears up. Happy 4th to all y'all down in the USA.

https://i.ibb.co/TR6JCb1/IMG-7555.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/fMCXRCM/IMG-7551.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/yktYx5J/IMG-7550.jpg

[Too Many Projects]

WOW, had to put my sun glasses on to look at those pics...:cool2: Very bright interior.

We're baking under a cloudless sky at 93 degrees today...:tongue:

[frankk]

You are NOT going to allow grandkids with food on those georgeous seats ..... are you?

[NorCam]

Grandkids? LOL

If I own it that long we will see.

[NorCam]

Made a little more progress with the interior tonight. I'll start the other side tomorrow as the rains continue here. Hoping to have the car 100% complete for Saturday. That will mark the 1 year point from when I started tearing into this one. Pretty amazed about that timeline, but cannot wait to get out and enjoy this car.

https://i.ibb.co/gJ4X7Zk/IMG-7557.jpg

[Sean]

Cal, It looks kick A** Always looking forward to the progress my friend!!

[frankk]

Just amazed at that interior!

[NorCam]

Still raining here so the little straggler things are being done. Today I put a switch on the transmission and will wire that into the circuit for the reverse lights. That will be the last task to be done under the dash so that the drivers bucket can also go in. Slow progress but really having fun here.

https://i.ibb.co/yf6JBHN/IMG-7562.jpg

[NorCam]

Does anybody out there have a factory reverse tab with the hole for the switch leg off a 68 manual trans with reverse light switch? I tried drilling the Hurst shifter tab and it's hardened A36. I'd like to find the right reverse tab to use with the reverse light switch off a 68?

Don't think I need a hardened reverse tab. Not doing demolition derby just yet. (LOL)

https://i.ibb.co/N1D3X4H/IMG-7564.jpg

[big gear head]

If you don't find one send me the one you have and I'll EDM drill a hole in it.

[rszmjt]

Does anybody out there have a factory reverse tab with the hole for the switch leg off a 68 manual trans with reverse light switch? I tried drilling the Hurst shifter tab and it's hardened A36. I'd like to find the right reverse tab to use with the reverse light switch off a 68?

Don't think I need a hardened reverse tab. Not doing demolition derby just yet. (LOL)

https://i.ibb.co/N1D3X4H/IMG-7564.jpg

Graeme, A 68 trans tag wont work either unless you grind/modify it for the bolt type retention, your trans appears to use bolts to retain the tag, 69 style, the tag has 2 indents for the bolt, 68 tags use a stud that is flattened on both side.

You may be able to drill that tag if you use a carbide tip bit and a little heat.
Ron Derrry at Custom balancing has a EDM machine if you go that way.

Ill look tonite in my orphan Hurst stuff to see if I have a tag that will work.

[NorCam]

Good point Mike. Never thought about the stud (rookie oversight)

Just out soldering a couple wires to finish up and get it ready to fire. The b/u switch is nice to have for reverse lights. I can go back and get it later but might just be a good idea to take the tab over to Ron. :cool2:

Bleeding brakes later today and plan to fire it up after that. It has a driver's seat in it now so I don't have to sit on the floor any longer.

https://i.ibb.co/VDvvbfv/IMG-7580.jpg
Added a fused link for the lead wire on the vac pump.

https://i.ibb.co/RNGTyZ8/IMG-7583.jpg
Soldered in a fused link for the solenoid too.

https://i.ibb.co/51Z98qc/IMG-7579.jpg
Mounted a seat to keep my backside comfy when starting it up. (soon)

[BJCHEV396]

Wow that interior pops Graeme.....good job!!

[rlw68]

Mounted a seat to keep my backside comfy when starting it up. (soon)


This event should definitely be live streamed on FB


:worship:

[NorCam]

This event should definitely be live streamed on FB


:worship:

You know...I could probably figure out how to do that and was so close to firing it...until I went to bleed the brakes today and found a couple nasty leaks. One caliper decided that the bleeder valve was going to puke fluid everywhere, and both fittings into the line loc solenoid decided to piss Dot 3 all over the place.

Packed it in an hour ago and been pouring cocktails ever since.

Maybe tomorrow will be better...but I'm gonna need to find some fittings on a Saturday.

https://i.ibb.co/bbT1S7m/IMG-7599.jpg

[BJCHEV396]

This event should definitely be live streamed on FB


:worship:

I second that motion!

[Ryan1969Chevelle]

Brake Fluid:

I put that S#%^ on everything!!!

Ryan W31

PS: awesome build!!!

[NorCam]

Brake Fluid:

I put that S#%^ on everything!!!

Ryan W31

PS: awesome build!!!

LOL...I had it on everything yesterday Ryan. Front end was jacked up so I could bleed the P/S so naturally when I was bleeding the master cyl, the leaks at the line lock solenoid sorta went undetected until it ran all the way back down the frame rail and started a puddle at my feet. I cleaned it all up and rinsed it all down right away. Then I saw the other side and was like WTF...I don't normally have leaks. After coffee this morning it's still pissin me off some.

Heading out to try and find some new bleeders for the front calipers this morning. Obviously the bleeder valves I put in are slightly off from the originals and are not seating properly. Really starting to hate all the aftermarket $hit when it don't fit as it's supposed to. :scholar:

[Too Many Projects]

"Really starting to hate all the aftermarket $hit when it don't fit as it's supposed to."
Standard issue with the majority of the offshore shit...:mad2:

Sorry to see you having to deal with and repair all this when you have done such a meticulous job assembling everything...:frown:

[NorCam]

Nobody makes a decent bleeder screw for the 633 calipers these days. Dorman, Wagner, Russel...they are all off by a wide margin from the original (seen in the middle here). I think I might have another original out in the shop that I can turn up. If not, I am hoping the one on the far left works but could only find one.

https://i.ibb.co/wy7qncP/IMG-7609.jpg

[napa68]

Graeme,

Did you take a look at the bleeder seat in the caliper? These calipers when they get rebuilt, sometimes get the seat damaged due to the bleeder getting screwed in soooooo tight when they are remanufactured.

Agreed on parts quality. I'm happy not to be having to apologize for crappy parts anymore.

Tim

[NorCam]

You bet Tim,

Tried the original bleeders and one side still leaked. Took it off and looked inside the bore. From what I can see, it looks like the rebuilder screwed up the bottom. I think they drilled out a seized bleeder and likely went through it at the bottom.

Just finished installing a new set of calipers for the time being and grabbing a quick beer before heading out to bleed the brakes again. Then I should add some fluids and fire it up. Although it depends how well the first beer goes down and how fast the next six come on. Might end up firing it in the AM cause the first swig tastes way too good here. (lol)

[NorCam]

Brakes are all fixed and bled for the time being. Added fluids to the motor and heading out to add the battery and some gas to it now. Gotta wipe the headers down so I don't stain them with hand prints. Should be cooking here real soon.

[NorCam]

Fired it up tonight with open headers and shot a live video over on InstaGram under my username daytona69Z. I'll edit the video and upload it here in the AM but fired it a couple times and will tune it tomorrow. Exciting times for sure.

[NorCam]

Ok here's one for the insomniacs out there. Just be sure to turn your volume down because you'll wake up anyone else in your household. Runs good but I quickly ran the carb out of fuel a couple times just so I could hear it tonight. I'll fill the tank tomorrow and give it a needed tuning. It was getting late and didn't want to disturb all the neighbors so this was all for now.

YnjWi-jGLvI

[R68GTO]

Love me some open headers at 4:50am eastern. Outstanding work Graeme!:beers:

[TimG]

That was a great video, I can't wait to see the Camaro in motion.

[Dave Rifkin]

Looks and sounds amazing!! Congratulations on another stellar build.

[COPO]

Nothing like firing it up for the first time and especially with open headers. Have followed the thread since the beginning, and has been quite impressive not only with the quality of the build, but the pace of progress throughout the entire process has been amazing for a garage build.

Congrats on a job well done. Can't wait to see and hear the video of you ripping through the gears.

[big gear head]

That's great. I sure wish you were able to bring it to SCR. It would be awesome to see it running down Beech Bend drag strip. Maybe another time.

[NorCam]

That's great. I sure wish you were able to bring it to SCR. It would be awesome to see it running down Beech Bend drag strip. Maybe another time.

Hoping to have it there next year Freddie. The borders remain closed this month but should ease forward to slowly open up soon as long as the new Covid strains don't impede that. Some countries are seeing 3rd and 4th waves due to the Delta & Lambda variants so who knows where this will go.

[x77-69z28]

Outstanding Graeme!
Buddy

[Z282NV]

What more can I say!

https://www.cjsr.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/itsalive.jpg

[frankk]

I am electronically challenged so I was not able to open what you had posted, But where in the world did you get the 302 decal, love that.

[NorCam]

I am electronically challenged so I was not able to open what you had posted, But where in the world did you get the 302 decal, love that.

Heartbeat City Camaro has them in their decal offerings. I thought the HP callout was very fitting for this motor.

https://www.heartbeatcitycamaro.com/20570/1967-1968-1969-Camaro-Crossram-302-Air-Cleaner-Decal/

[dykstra]

Sounds killer! Congrats!

[Chuck_Burg]

Wicked! Congrats Graeme... you beat me to it. I should be starting her up this week though. Since you live near the Rockies I thought you'd be a Coors guy haha

[BJCHEV396]

Outstanding Graeme! Thanks for taking us along for the ride!

[dvss1]

Awesome build and I like where you installed the tach! Never see that anymore!!

[NorCam]

Added some fuel and a little more spark to the mix. Here it is rolling under its own power for the first time in 35 years or so. Won't be long until it's finished up now so stay tuned...

Ec8xNfJV-SM

[Z28Project]

Looks and sounds wicked! Great stance too! What a journey!!

[Ryan1969Chevelle]

Can’t wait to see some gear changes!!!

M22Z-3.55-29” tire?

Ryan W31

[NorCam]

Looks and sounds wicked! Great stance too! What a journey!!

Thanks John.

I am absolutely loving the stance on this one. It just has the vibe!

Exhaust happens in a couple days, then it gets an alignment before the shake down runs commence. I'm a tad bit excited now. :wink:

Can’t wait to see some gear changes!!!

M22Z-3.55-29” tire?

Ryan W31

M23Z - 373 Rear & 28" Tire

[NorCam]

Wicked! Congrats Graeme... you beat me to it. I should be starting her up this week though. Since you live near the Rockies I thought you'd be a Coors guy haha

Excited for you my friend. I can't wait to hear that big block when it gets sparked up. :scholar:

And no...coors is just too light for my taste. Especially when used to Canadian beer that packs a little more strength.

[Xplantdad]

Awesome stuff (as always) Graeme!! :beers:

[scuncio]

Wow, sounds and looks incredible.

[COPO]

Exhaust happens in a couple days [/B]

No need, it sounds just right, down right nasty and snarling.

[Crush]

Excited for you my friend. I can't wait to hear that big block when it gets sparked up. :scholar:

And no...coors is just too light for my taste. Especially when used to Canadian beer that packs a little more strength.

When I was growing up in Detroit, many moons ago, we would drive over the blue water bridge and hit the beer store for some Boudor! Compared to the watered down US beer at 5.5% alcohol it was awesome. For another day, we ran into a few problems at the border…… those were the days!

Now back to the regularly scheduled program, great car!

[BJCHEV396]

Added some fuel and a little more spark to the mix. Here it is rolling under its own power for the first time in 35 years or so. Won't be long until it's finished up now so stay tuned...

Ec8xNfJV-SM

Most excellent!!!!

[Chuck_Burg]

Excited for you my friend. I can't wait to hear that big block when it gets sparked up. :scholar:

And no...coors is just too light for my taste. Especially when used to Canadian beer that packs a little more strength.

Is this the beginning of Canadian Bacon.... hahaha. Car is awesome, you might need some cutouts because this thing sounds AMAZING

[Dave Rifkin]

Man she sounds nasty; congratulations on another amazing build. Thank you for taking us along for the ride.

[napa68]

Congrats Graeme!

Now get your Prime Minister to open the damn border and bring it to MCACN!!!

:beers::beers::beers::beers::beers::beers:

[frankk]

Anyone have an idea as to why the black square link won't open? I am dying to hear this baby run.

[NorCam]

It's your PC settings Frank. Try clicking on the link below and turn you volume up.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ec8xNfJV-SM

Reasons That YouTube Videos Won't Play
Most of the issues that can prevent YouTube videos from playing can be broken down into these basic categories:

Browser problems: When YouTube videos won't play, it's usually a browser problem. Refreshing the page fixes the problem a lot of the time, but you may need to update your browser or clear the cache.

Computer problems: Most computer problems that prevent YouTube from working require a simple restart. You may need to update your computer at the same time.

Internet problems: Local networking problems can usually be fixed by unplugging your modem and router and then plugging them back in. If your internet connection is especially slow, lowering the YouTube video quality will also help.

I would suspect you have a browser issue. If using Microsoft Edge or Explorer, consider changing browsers to Chrome or Firefox of something else.

[frankk]

Thanks for the explanation Grame. The second link does work for me. What an awesome car. Love the cams that are still bubbling well above idle. Lets you know there is something real between the pipes!

[chevyandpontiac]

Very exciting Looks and sounds amazing

[NorCam]

One more video before the car is muffled. It went out today for a set of short duals and will still have a nice rumble to it through a set of Hooker Aero Chambers. My favorite muffler of any. Very little drone, a nice smooth sound, and a sound that comes alive when you hammer it. Next sound clip will be a little quieter than this one at idle.

KitMk32CLSs

And here's the direct link for those who cannot see the video file included above. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KitMk32CLSs

[dykstra]

That sound NEVER gets old!! I love it!!

[R68GTO]

OK, so does anyone know how to turn that into a ring-tone on an I-phone?:headbang:

[NorCam]

Ok...that's funny (ring tone).

So, exhaust is done, and horsing around here afterwards my kid says to me lets make another video and then he says to me "I got a guy". So immediately I'm thinking about Jersey Jeff who would have been happy to see this one finished up, and out comes a bit of the accent. Yeah...I got a guy!

This one is for you Jeff Masi. Your car was such an inspiration. RIP buddy!

dzWw5ypkfGg

[Xplantdad]

Love it Graeme :)


"I got a guy" :headbang::headbang::cool2:

[napa68]

Dayummmm!

[Donnie]

can you put the other link up so I can see it?

[luv2sixty9]

I got it! I think 100% better......sounds mean

[frankk]

Thanks for posting the extra links Grame. The car sounds perfect with open headers and it sounds perfect with mufflers.

[NorCam]

can you put the other link up so I can see it?

Open Headers
https://youtu.be/KitMk32CLSs


With mufflers
https://youtu.be/dzWw5ypkfGg

[carnut4life]

Sounds great both ways Graeme, the hood looks amazing too!

[NorCam]

Got the front end alignment done today and the first little shakedown run is now in the books. The car drives great and you immediately get the sense it really wants to be unleashed, but I haven't even put a light on it just yet. No leaks after the first few heat cycles over the past couple days, and not a drip of anything after taking it out for it's first 20 minute run tonight. Brakes work fantastic, the steering is absolutely great, and the bias ply tires don't feel bad at all...even on our county roads. On the exhaust front, the car is still plenty loud, but remains somewhat tolerable for now. The airbags did prevent access to bend up some factory tail pipes so I might pull those back out and that will give me the needed room the install the rear sections later on.

https://i.ibb.co/0sTN6wL/Alignment.jpg

Mechanically, once I have the Muncie broken in with some miles on this rear end, I'll change all the fluids and will start banging out some launches on it. Over the next few days there will be plenty of shakedown runs to get everything dialed in right, but first it needs a tune and some carb adjustments as it's running pretty rich as it sits. I have an Innovator box to check the AFR and might try that out in the next few days to get a baseline air fuel reading at idle, and some cruise samplings as well as WOT. Tomorrow AM I plan to spend an hour or two under the car while adjusting and torquing down the suspension, adjusting the shift rods, and simply going over everything on the car one more time.

One thing is for sure, it's gets a lot of attention wherever it goes. That and it leaves a big ol' grin on my face everytime I crawl out from behind the wheel. I twisted good on it while coming down my home stretch here tonight and my son had a real serious grin that you couldn't wipe from his face if you tried. That alone makes this all worthwhile. :biggthumpup:

More to come...

[Donnie]

Thanks!

[napa68]

I bought an Innovative Motorsports wide band for tuning also. Beats the tar out of constantly pulling plugs!!!

Money well spent!

[NorCam]

Been busy this week and the car has been sitting for the past few days, but here are a few pictures of it coming out of the trailer when hauled around for some exhaust work and welding last week. I chose a set of Hotchkis subframe connectors to stiffen up the chassis in this car and at the same time, had my exhaust guy tie it all together with a few good welds. Also had him fab some short duals with a balance tube before hanging some Hooker Aero Chambers under the rear of the car.

Since getting it home, I've cleaned up the bottom of the car, adjusted the rear suspension, and have double checked the torque values of the lower suspension. Next, I will torque down the front suspension arms and finish up a few little things that I left hanging. Enjoy the pics. Shakedown videos should follow real soon.

https://i.ibb.co/bH2WnzV/003-Front-End.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/cDWr3Cy/007-Bell.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/h9Q5YCF/007-Sub-Weld.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/0DcDJ0B/006-Side-Weld.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/L1gJG7G/005-Frame-Weld.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/yhZ05b4/009-Rear.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/87W0Pwv/008-Forward.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/2MxFTBx/010-Back.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/DGXq7sK/004-Rear-End.jpg

[Ryan1969Chevelle]

I like the frame connectors, tough to do welding after resto, nice job!!!

Ryan W31

[NorCam]

You got that right Ryan. I was too excited to get it running and driving to spend much time trying to blend in the paint around the welds and just gave them a dusting of trim paint for now. In the off season, I'll go back and dress those up using another paint I have to make it all match up cleanly. When it's done it should all look uniform like the powder.

[DW31S]

Did you unhook the MSD when it was welded? It’s recommended to do so.
Gonna be fun to beat on that one, huh? Dump it at 6, shift at 7 and let her eat!!!

[NorCam]

Yes I did Dave. Also put a surge protector on the car.

The motor is working like a charm here. Had it out last night and peddled it a bit. It can sure lift the front end up with those 90/10 shocks on it. I was happy to see the rears didn't rub when it squatted. Couple pics out front after I got home. Still not finished the car and have yet to install outer trim, but it's coming along.

https://i.ibb.co/zn7yj87/IMG-7777.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/rbJ1L1r/IMG-7766b.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/nwx9fCF/IMG-7773.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/CP6yVrL/IMG-7769.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/WD0QgWx/Z28-4.jpg

[TimG]

I NEVER get tired of looking at pictures of this car. Please keep posting more.

It's funny, my wife looks over my shoulder sometimes and always smiles and says "more car porn"?

[NorCam]

So...

Been taking my sweet time getting all the little things dialed in with the car and really, I've been in no hurry to get it out for additional shake down runs. In saying that, I've had my share of little annoyances and things that try and fight back...but finally, I torqued down the front suspension this week, lubed the grease zerks, double checked all the fluids, double checked the driveline & suspension settings, and finally timed the motor last night before adding a couple gallons of fuel. So I'm now ready for a little shake down run to ensure all is good...right?

Nope...not so fast says some little Noid. You forgot something...and it's going to cause you some grief. Maybe not enough to stop you in your tracks, but enough to humble you, and remind you that you're human. (grrrrr)

RN0s863GRBY

Direct link for those with browser issues or restrictions. https://youtu.be/RN0s863GRBY

[big gear head]

I could hear the M23. I love that sound. Was that a rare deep groove pulley? Glad it didn't do any more damage.

[NorCam]

I could hear the M23. I love that sound. Was that a rare deep groove pulley? Glad it didn't do any more damage.

It was suppose to have been a real one and came in a parts swap but I think it was a repop. I'm just lucky it didn't come off when I was setting the timing as I'm sure it was up around 4K when I had the light on it to check total advance. The nut must have come off when I fired it up because it was laying under the lift and I just swept it out earlier in the afternoon...so it had to have just come off when I pulled it out to time the engine.

[NorCam]

On a good note...I picked up a nice pair of original Jan 28th YH wheels yesterday through eBay. Nicely restored, no pitting and they spin true. Whenever I can get some new Goodyears without all the backorders, I'll get some rubber ordered up for them.

https://i.ibb.co/hyMVxXB/YH001.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/0rC5zY6/YH008.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/F4sPLNT/YH005.jpg

[napa68]

You didn't screw around getting the wheels!!

Glad you did hurt anything else with the PS pump pulley. That could have sucked @ 7000 plus!

Sounds bad ass:3gears:

[ruralrte66]

I have (and everyone on sYc) so enjoyed this thread, watching the build of this Day 2, X77, 76 76, 714, Z28 in just 1 year. Just amazing, The Best!!!!!

Gregg

[NorCam]

Thank you Greg. I really enjoy sharing it all as well. :beers:

Best part is getting to drive it at the end. Then it's always the age old question for me.

What next?

[Zedder]

Great video Graeme! Glad you dodged a bullet with that pulley!

[frankk]

Thanks for posting the extra link Grame. What next you ask......well you park it in the garage and the next day you drive it again and then park it and the next day after that you drive it again. And so on!

[NorCam]

Actually Frank...I'm excited to be planning some driving with this one...in Winnipeg. That said, I'm planning on moving back to the Central Canada in the next few months to expand my company operations there. I have always missed that city for it's cottage life and for the car culture and cruise scene that happens there. (Every Sunday night used to be a blast along Portage Ave)

Very much a street machine city, and will put me closer to Brainerd as well.

[frankk]

Lots of good car people in Winnipeg.

[NorCam]

Yes, and I am still connected to a few friends and car collectors in Winnipeg who are deep seeded in the hobby. Hoping to be back in Winnipeg in the next couple of months so I can get to enjoy a few cruise nights before the season winds down for the winter.

Looking forward to snowmobiling out at the lakes again too! Brap brap.

[napa68]

Brap brap.

Hell yeah buddy!!!

[olredalert]

----You also will be closer to MCACN as well. Bonus!.....Bill S

[NorCam]

----You also will be closer to MCACN as well. Bonus!.....Bill S

I was wondering who'd say that first. :laugh:

[frankk]

Make sure you protect the Camaro. Keep everyone at least 15 ft, away from it

[NorCam]

All good Frank...

Cars to me are meant to be enjoyed. I don't like stanchions or barriers, and normally I leave a door open and encourage kids as well as the ladies to jump in and get a picture when they show an interest. Not sure I'll be doing that with such a bright interior in this one, but like showing them up close and personal. The car is slowly being finished up now and dialed in for an upcoming show in which it will involve an unveiling when it debuts in a few short weeks. Kind of excited to be doing that and really looking forward to its coming out party of sorts.

Here's a look at the hood pins as I finished them up last night. Chose some black anodized pins that better suit the car, and trimmed down some hood popper springs that are centered over some foam blocks to center them up under the hood when it's closed. They fit nicely under the hood and they help to pop the hood up when the pins are being removed. Also got around to installing an NOS set of rocker spears and a set of restored original GM mirrors to finish up on the exterior. Still a few little things left to finish up.

https://i.ibb.co/fG80nXx/IMG-7896.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/WBrftLm/IMG-7889.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/7Yqcqft/IMG-7890.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/kczvtmg/IMG-7891.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/wRPk2Qw/IMG-7870.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/f9hgthK/IMG-7869.jpg

[GearheadSS]

This car does things to me. Looks great NorCam!

[NorCam]

It's doing it for me too, so I think I know what you mean. :biggthumpup:

I am just headed out to pick up some more little parts that are needed to finish it up. I should have some final pictures of it later this week or early next when it's 100% to my satisfaction. Then I'll shoot some real good video including some angles from a drone when I have it out on a couple runs.

Also, I noticed this thread now has over 200K views over the past 12+ months. That's some serious interest in a little yellow project from north of the border. Cheers to that, and here are a few more shots to keep some of you interested until the video is ready.

https://i.ibb.co/VTGzWnf/IMG-7781.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/8Kyg2Hr/Blurred-1.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/K5H9Zbj/Blurred-3.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/cTZkdxJ/Diff-View.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/4dN7HzB/IMG-7796.jpg

[Z28Project]

I never tire of looking at this Z/28!

[napa68]

Looking awesome Graeme!!:beers:

[Chuck_Burg]

You're car looks mean Graeme... Great job, I know what it takes to get these cars to this level. Hopefully someday the Air Force Brat and the Prospector can meet to compare Day 2 badassery :beers:

[NorCam]

That would be fun Chas.

I'm busy getting my place ready to list and then I'll be getting back to the fun stuff.

[BJCHEV396]

I never tire of looking at this Z/28!

Me neither! Great job Graeme,congrats!

[Too Many Projects]

Is the housing market as crazy up there as down here too ?

[NorCam]

Market is not crazy here where I am selling, but it's certainly gone batshit nuts where I am moving too. That has me a little apprehensive but I'm still planning on making the move.

Looking forward to being back in one of the best hotrod cities in Canada.

[Z282NV]

It's cold and windy in the Peg in winter time and the mosquitoes a just a tad smaller than dragon flies in the summer :crazy: but I guess the car scene makes up for all of that. :hmmm:

[RPOLS3]

Love the car - looks great. Well done!

[Too Many Projects]

Market is not crazy here where I am selling, but it's certainly gone batshit nuts where I am moving too. That has me a little apprehensive but I'm still planning on making the move.

Looking forward to being back in one of the best hotrod cities in Canada.


Did that in 2019, made an offer on this house July 21st, closed on Aug 21st, used the next month to move half the "stuff" to the new place and then listed the old place on Sept 19th. Sold in 3 days and closed on Oct 21st. Years ago, it could take 3 months from offer to closing on one house. Batshit crazy market is right.

[rlw68]

It's cold and windy in the Peg in winter time and the mosquitoes a just a tad smaller than dragon flies in the summer :crazy: but I guess the car scene makes up for all of that. :hmmm:

LOL ! I've heard the auto insurance require a LoJack because so many cars get stolen in Winnipeg

:eek2:

[NorCam]

Thought I'd chime and throw a shout out to Tony (Scuncio) and offer a big thanks for packing up a nice set of wheels and tires that he recently sold me. Tires look great and the black YH wheels will make some great trade bait as I try and find a couple more January dates for this car. The silver ones seen here are a fully restored set of jan 28 dates that I recently bought, while the black set are super clean original YH wheels dated May 19th.

The M&H Racemaster slicks are going to look killer when I mount them onto another set of 7" American Racing wheels or possibly to a set of chrome reverse steelies. I'm sure they'll fit nicely on the inside of the wheel openings. They are in wicked condition for their age.

https://i.ibb.co/x3Bst0f/IMG-7954.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/QFvv6jv/IMG-7955.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/StbCsH7/IMG-7960.jpg

[scuncio]

Hey you're welcome. Those wheels are absolutely mint aren't they?

[NorCam]

Hey you're welcome. Those wheels are absolutely mint aren't they?

Yes they are super clean. :worship:

This makes 2 excellent sets of 9" slicks that I have also gotten from you now Tony. The Firestone Drag 500's are mounted up on some old Centerlines and might make it onto the car sometime? Nice to have as many cool day 2 tire options as I do for this Z. It'll allow me to change up the look quite often.

:beers:

[scuncio]

Look forward to seeing them on the car. There is still quite a bit of cool stuff stashed away in this area.

[dykstra]

Very cool!

[Tracker1]

It's good to see someone else shares my endless wheel & tire combo sickness :)

[BJCHEV396]

It's cold and windy in the Peg in winter time and the mosquitoes a just a tad smaller than dragon flies in the summer :crazy: but I guess the car scene makes up for all of that. :hmmm:

Good old Winterpeg.Portage and Main.....brrrr.

[GrumpyJeff]

It's good to see someone else shares my endless wheel & tire combo sickness :)

Yep ! Me Too, my basement is stacked

[x77-69z28]

Car really looks great Graeme! I have really enjoyed watching your build! My 70 is finally back in the body shop getting ready for paint. Keep up the great work.
Buddy

[NorCam]

Car really looks great Graeme! I have really enjoyed watching your build! My 70 is finally back in the body shop getting ready for paint. Keep up the great work.
Buddy

Thanks Buddy. Glad you enjoyed it my friend and happy to hear that yours is nearing the paint stage. I just met up with the local show organizer today and picked myself a prime spot for the unveiling which is now 2 weeks away. :beers:

[NorCam]

The car is supposed to debut at a local show this weekend, but now it's all up to the weather. Today, we finished off the door panels and also have the weatherstrips soaking with GM silicone emulsion fluid pasted onto the door seals. Also had my son whip up a couple posters for me to showcase the cars build details including the back side which notes all of the Day 2 stuff. Finally, I had a chance to mount up the wheels and tires I got from Tony a couple weeks ago. Love the look with the black wheels and the slicks mounted up on the back. I'm sure these will be making an appearance or two this fall.


https://i.ibb.co/6BnHSdH/Show-Prep-2.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/3vgQ591/Show-Prep-1.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/MRvVH1b/Show-Prep-8.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/kJ5PHkp/Show-Prep-3.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/80qVVN1/Show-Prep-4.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/8z3bhXc/Show-Prep-5.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/QrjgqK2/Show-Prep-6.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/Vxnh70t/Show-Prep-7.jpg

Finally...a shameless plug. If any of you guys like the poster boards or graphics, you can hit up my son Devon (16 year old gearhead) and he can help you design a storyboard and send you the artwork files for printing at any of your local print shops. I printed these 24" x 36" vinyl posters for the front and back of this plastic display board and it cost me next to nothing to bang this double sided sign together. Visit www.tier1image.com and contact Devon if you need a car sign or show board made up.

[TimG]

The car looks great. I hope the weather holds out and you make the show. Please post pictures from the show.

[R68GTO]

Good luck on the weather and at the show. I'm sure your car will get a lot of positive comments. No one that hasn't followed your build thread could possibly appreciate the time and quality of the build. You definitely should be proud of the outcome!:biggthumpup:

[Z282NV]

Have a good time at the show. There is no doubt that the car will definitely draw crowds around it.

[frankk]

Have a great time at the show

[NorCam]

Today's show was a lot of fun and the car was very well received by all. Took home the plaque for Best Muscle Car, and the icing on the cake was sidestepping the third pedal on the way home. It goes straight when you put it on the limiter! More pics and video to follow.

https://i.ibb.co/xH05LLn/IMG-8255.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/dGrhP5n/IMG-8261.jpg

[TimG]

I love it......

[markinnaples]

Congrats! No surprise on such a great build.

I'm actually going to contact your son about a poster for my car once I get the new motor fired up and all back together.

[scuncio]

Congrats!

[frankk]

Ahhh thank god for those paved country roads!!

[NorCam]

Yup...

I see they have paved roads around Prince George as well...or at least it was the roads just outside PG where these guys were racing back in the day. lol

https://i.ibb.co/KKphmSG/KM-Drag.jpg

[x77-69z28]

Congrats Graeme! Knew you would be well received. Nice ink by the way!,
Buddy

[dykstra]

Congrats and great burn out!!:3gears:

[NorCam]

The inside views and sounds of the car.

New video to come in a separate post.

[TimG]

Yes, that is great. If I remember correctly, the rear is 4.56.

[napa68]

:3gears::3gears::3gears::3gears::biggthumpup:

[gaul]

Such a great project would follow up 100%

[BJCHEV396]

The inside views and sounds. Front shocks pull up nicely.

k0Q9z98j9BY

Saweeet! Congrats on a great build!

[frankk]

Don't recognize the car or the terrain Grahame

[NorCam]

Don't recognize the car or the terrain Graeme

Kym Miller's old 69 Z that I restored a couple years ago (the green one). They used to hold drag races just outside of PG on the south side. I forget the highway but they'd shut that one down and hold races right outside of town. FE Dragsters and all. Early 70's

[NorCam]

Here's a little video that my son put together with pics and driving videos of the Camaro.

JFGNEGPadLM

[frankk]

South of town we used to use an old stretch of hiway at a place called Alexandria, but that was just south of Quesnel. Alexandria was just a location on hiway 97 south that had a thethered raft to cross the Fraser river. If you restored this car a couple of years ago, then it cannot be the car I was thinking of which was a purple 427 car. Was Kymm from around these parts.

[NorCam]

I messed that up Frank. Kym Miller was the original owner of the Green Z/28 that I restored and then sold back to him a couple years ago. He used to race it across the prairies and down into Washington state back in the 70's. He lived in FSJ and not in PG, and they used to race on a closed highway which was in fact the Airport Bypass Road south of FSJ. I had Fort St John mixed up with Prince George again. My bad.

[frankk]

Well at any rate, a tough looking 69.

[napa68]

Great video......just like the build!

[Z282NV]

Your son did an awesome job on the VID. The car ain't too shabby either.

[cruiserofland]

Congrats Graeme, what a spectacular build :beers:

[dykstra]

Way cool video! Thanks for posting.

[NorCam]

Been so busy the past few weeks that there wasn't much time for test and tune sessions ahead of the car show, but this past Sunday my son and I got out to put some more miles and smiles into another shakedown run. Did some stop and go stuff in local daytime traffic, some 50 mph highway runs, and a couple 70mph cruises on the blacktop around me. The car drove like a dream considering the staggered bias ply setup, and rolled through the gears rather nicely. It launches well, stops good, and it's so much fun that I don't think I've switched the radio on once yet? :laugh:

Here's a couple clips from Sunday with another narrative. The sounds of the Muncie keeps me watching this one.

vitBNHmK-Tw

[NorCam]

Being that the car is now nearing completion, here are a few added pictures of the car taken outside my home on Sunday. Still have to finish plumbing the line loc (was waiting on fittings), add a lock pawl to the pass door, and tweak one of the door panels a touch, and it is done!

https://i.ibb.co/12xCPVk/Daytona-Z28-1.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/djvMmzK/Daytona-Z28-2.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/K9dkVTB/Daytona-Z28-3.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/gFnQzgG/Daytona-Z28-4.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/7J09kDR/Daytona-Z28-5.jpg

[x77-69z28]

Great video Graeme! Awesome build, start to finish. I for one, am very impressed!
Buddy

[dykstra]

I can’t get enough of this car!!

[frankk]

Looks awesome, sounds awesome and the interior takes it to Mars!!!! I am still working on why I cannot link on to your videos.

[NorCam]

Had a good little chat with the original owner again today. I sent him some pictures of the car and he thanked me for reminding him of his youth, and for mentioning him on the show card. He then sent me a text with this image attached. He told me that this was the license plate he had on the car when he returned to Texas with the Z/28 back in 1970.

Kinda fitting for the Day 2 car it was back then. I'm totally diggin it'

https://i.ibb.co/jvNc5nZ/Mayhem.jpg

[Z282NV]

Had a good little chat with the original owner again today. I sent him some pictures of the car and he thanked me for reminding him of his youth, and for mentioning him on the show card. He then sent me a text with this image attached. He told me that this was the license plate he had on the car when he returned to Texas with the Z/28 back in 1970.

Kinda fitting for the Day 2 car it was back then. I'm totally diggin it'

https://i.ibb.co/jvNc5nZ/Mayhem.jpg


Cool, you should check out if that plate name is available in Alberta or maybe Manitoba when you get there and put that on the car. Like the rise of the Phoenix.

[NorCam]

Got the car out for a nice highway rip today and stopped to grab a few pictures on my favorite bridge. Some of you will recognize this bridge from a picture I took with the 68 a few years ago. Beauty day for a cruise with my son today!

https://i.ibb.co/6HryPh6/Gman69.jpg

[outlawperformance]

Awesome spot for a cool pic with a cool car!

[NorCam]

We were out to get some video footage of the car being ran today, but our drone footage went sideways when the drone crashed. It was being flown under a high bridge and we suspect a hawk attacked the drone as it dropped about 80' from the bridge deck to the river below. We ended up finding it submerged in about 5' of water but it was too far from the shore to recover and none of us felt like swimming today.

The resulting video is the footage captured enroute to our chosen film site from a GoPro angle inside the car...and some handheld video my son took. Crank it up and enjoy.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IGzbLq_OVJY (Link for those who cannot view in browser)

IGzbLq_OVJY

[napa68]

Great video Graeme! Spectacular countryside ya got there:worship:

[frankk]

Awesome! I like to drive mine with ALL the windows down, yesterday was only 8 degrees , made for a chilly drive. Got me to thinking of putting it away for the winter.

[NorCam]

It won't be long and this one will also be put away Frank.

Going to try and put some more miles on it later this week and next before changing the fluids and parking it for the year. The season is quickly drawing in on a close.

[NorCam]

Got the Daytona Z out for a good shakedown run yesterday and managed to put another 50 or so miles on it as fall is now upon us. It was a great little cruise, but it's back in the box for the off season and will perhaps stay there until spring.

Hope you enjoy this little video we put together yesterday.

Direct Link for those who cannot view Youtube. https://youtu.be/-HFN_8_zVY0

/-HFN_8_zVY0

[frankk]

You are doing great.... 50-60 miles in one shot. I managed 37 miles this year.

[Mr.Nickey Nova]

Nice open roads you have to drive on Graeme, wish we had that here in the burbs of Chicago. Thanks for the video and nice job on the Z...

[napa68]

How long till that tranny is broke in?:3gears:

[NorCam]

About 500 miles to do it right. Then dump the oil, and do with it as I wish...so I was told.

I have about 200 on it now, but in all likeliness...

I will have sold the car before it hits 500. :grin:

[NorCam]

Nice open roads you have to drive on Graeme, wish we had that here in the burbs of Chicago. Thanks for the video and nice job on the Z...

Thanks. :burnout:

I wish we all had roads like this to cruise on. Last time I drove around Chicago I recall talking about how much concrete there was, but how little freedom it felt like when compared to up here. Those toll booths had a lot to do with that I think. Up here it's just wide open road...very different feeling when it comes to cruising, but all good.

Cheers my friend!

[NorCam]

How long till that tranny is broke in?:3gears:


Wait...did you say broke in...or broken? LMAO:scholar:

[DW31S]

About 500 miles to do it right. Then dump the oil, and do with it as I wish...so I was told.

I have about 200 on it now, but in all likeliness...

I will have sold the car before it hits 500. :grin:

Who didn’t know that! LOL!

[NorCam]

Yup...David's buying in and getting back into the game. :beers:

I heard he needs something to mount all his Cragar sale stock onto for pics. LOL!

[Chuck_Burg]

You’re telling me I’m supposed to wait 500 miles before I beat on my autogear?? I don’t have that kind of self control… your car rules

[big gear head]

My M23 got beat on around the 2nd or 3rd drive. I've been dropping the clutch at 7000 RPMs with slicks and shifting with my right foot on the floor ever since. I had to go with Amsoil MTG oil because of a thrust bearing issue.

[NorCam]

You know...I spent three full days this week narrating video and prepping all the marketing materials and pictures to move this car along. Then I came back in here to read this thread... and then wham!

FULL STOP.

So, what then happened to the grand idea of selling it? Simple answer! One good look at this thread from the beginning. I wasn't 40 pages into this thread when I said holy crap man...there was some amazing work that went into this car. Realization...

The car cannot be sold! :no:

[NorCam]

Chas,

To be completely honest...there have been a few traction control tests performed while the car was being setup. :worship:

[napa68]

You know...I spent three full days this week narrating video and prepping all the marketing materials and pictures to move this car along. Then I came back in here to read this thread... and then wham!

FULL STOP.

So, what then happened to the grand idea of selling it? Simple answer! One good look at this thread from the beginning. I wasn't 40 pages into this thread when I said holy crap man...there was some amazing work that went into this car. Realization...

The car cannot be sold! :no:

Smart man!

[R68GTO]

You know...I spent three full days this week narrating video and prepping all the marketing materials and pictures to move this car along. Then I came back in here to read this thread... and then wham!

FULL STOP.

So, what then happened to the grand idea of selling it? Simple answer! One good look at this thread from the beginning. I wasn't 40 pages into this thread when I said holy crap man...there was some amazing work that went into this car. Realization...

The car cannot be sold! :no:

Whew! I was getting ready to write you off as a "flipper":wink:

[Too Many Projects]

You know...I spent three full days this week narrating video and prepping all the marketing materials and pictures to move this car along. Then I came back in here to read this thread... and then wham!

FULL STOP.

So, what then happened to the grand idea of selling it? Simple answer! One good look at this thread from the beginning. I wasn't 40 pages into this thread when I said holy crap man...there was some amazing work that went into this car. Realization...

The car cannot be sold! :no:


I couldn't believe it when I read you were already thinking of selling it. About time you pulled your head out and looked at what you have. TENS of THOUSANDS of people would give their left arm for a car that nice....:worship: They would need the right arm to shift...:grin:
Congrats on your decision to keep it..:biggthumpup: