Jim Weaver (169Indy's) 1968 RS/SS 396 Camaro!

[Xplantdad]

BIG DOG

This 1968 Camaro was nick named the ‘Big Dog’ by many of my friends in the early eighties after I came to own it. My Camaro flame was ignited when I purchased my first Camaro in high school (1981). My future Brother in law owned a 1967 Camaro while dating my sister. The 67 Camaro was equipped with the vary basic 230 cu in 6 cyl engine, while the car was flashy with stripes and chrome wheels the power train belied its aggressive shell. I took a lot of ribbing for owning and caring for a 6 popper. The 67 provided an excellent First car for adjusting to the Camaro care learning curve. Like all stovebolt owners I thirsted for the sound and performance of a V8.

The ‘well’, for me was just up the block from my parents house. Dave Tarver had a RED Super Sport 396 1968 Camaro, as a bonus it was equipped with the hidden headlight Rally Sport package. I remember drooling over this Car when he had placed a for sale sign in the window 1981, (In my younger years I had delivered news papers to Dave’s house and had to walk past the car on the way to the mail slot, providing ample study opportunities). He had great difficulty finding buyers for this monster, so the car sat. I had heard later in 1983 that he was again listing the car for sale to pursue some lake property, I marshaled my funds and entered the V8 realm. The car was amazingly un-modified as purchased. The usual, air shocks, stubby dual exhaust, stereo speakers in the package tray and the only engine modification was a COORS can wrapped around the coil. The smog was intact and popping in the exhaust as they tend to operate. Basically all the original (born with) engine, transmission and rear end, parts that the car was manufactured with were found in place. A fair portion of documentation came with the car, interesting items included, old pink slips from new to present, registrations, various dealer paper work, 2nd owner pop. The car was sold new locally via South Tacoma Motor Co (CHEVROLET) in May of 1968.

As I became accustomed to driving the V-8 I noticed a stark contrast in fuel economy when compared to the 6 cyl 1967 car, the thirst for fuel could have been in part due to my right foot also. It was nice having choices for cruising the STONE (Bremerton). Which car to take often depended on the available gas cash! The newfound access to abundant torque with the pep-leg 3.08 12 bolt rear allowed for some nice smoke shows. Such was born the BIG DOG.

The restoration has been a prolonged and protracted process spanning years. Like many I have done the car in subassemblies or sections thru the course of time. I painted the car in (the orig R2 matador red w/ black roof) Acrylic lacquer in 1987 with the help of a friend Lyle. It was a great learning experience and taught me to respect talented painters. The engine was rebuilt to stock specifications in 1989 retaining all factory installed components. The 749 houndstooth interior was in such great shape very little was required to freshen it up. It was rumored that the car was shelved during both oil crisis’s of 73 and 79 by its 3rd (female) owner in Silverdale, Washington, thereby keeping the overall mileage to 76k when purchased.


I have managed to keep this car the intervening 24 years and enjoyed activities with the Pacific Northwest Camaro Club, occasional racing at Bremerton Raceway, cruising with friends and chasing parts needed or otherwise at swap meets.

The Cars original Washington TAG was BLP-777 and I have always considered myself lucky to owned and enjoyed this BIG DOG for so long. Thanks for allowing me to share this with you in the members rides.

Jim Weaver

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b156/lotsayenkopics/Members%20Rides/169indy%20Jim%20Weaver/tn_019_16.jpg

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b156/lotsayenkopics/Members%20Rides/169indy%20Jim%20Weaver/tn_020_17.jpg

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b156/lotsayenkopics/Members%20Rides/169indy%20Jim%20Weaver/tn_021_18.jpg

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b156/lotsayenkopics/Members%20Rides/169indy%20Jim%20Weaver/tn_022_19.jpg

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b156/lotsayenkopics/Members%20Rides/169indy%20Jim%20Weaver/tn_023_20.jpg

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b156/lotsayenkopics/Members%20Rides/169indy%20Jim%20Weaver/tn_024_21.jpg

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b156/lotsayenkopics/Members%20Rides/169indy%20Jim%20Weaver/tn_026_23.jpg

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b156/lotsayenkopics/Members%20Rides/169indy%20Jim%20Weaver/tn_027_24.jpg

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b156/lotsayenkopics/Members%20Rides/169indy%20Jim%20Weaver/tn_100_0225.jpg

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b156/lotsayenkopics/Members%20Rides/169indy%20Jim%20Weaver/tn_scan0007.jpg

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b156/lotsayenkopics/Members%20Rides/169indy%20Jim%20Weaver/tn_scan0008.jpg

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b156/lotsayenkopics/Members%20Rides/169indy%20Jim%20Weaver/tn_Camaro009.jpg

[mockingbird812]

Hey Jim,

She looks terrific. Nice job. Good story too. You can be proud of your labor of love! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif

[47Hammer]

Very nice. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[TDW]

Cool car and story. Looks like you had your heart in the resto. Fine job.

[Z-11 396]

+++ JIM +++ GREAT LOOKING http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/eek.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/eek.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/eek.gif CAR, FANTASTIC COLOR , AND DETAIL WORK... http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif, THANKS http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/worship.gif FOR SHARING THE PICTURES, AND STORY...KASEY

[Bill Pritchard]

Very nice, beautiful restoration! Thanks for sharing the pics and the story http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif

[jtower1969]

Very nice car...Thanks for sharing. Love the BURNOUT
http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/burnout.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/burnout.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/burnout.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif

[Xplantdad]

I think that Jim's Camaro is way cool. I also think that it's great that he's held onto it all of these years.

I especially like the last shot of the group. Hmmm...I wonder why? http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif

Thanks for sharing your Camaro with us Jim! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/youguysrock.gif

[ORIGLS6]

Yeah, what he said. Smoke 'em if you got 'em. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif

[68 Vert]

One of my all time favorites, '68 BB and Red to boot!!

Thanks for sharing!

[mockingbird812]

[ QUOTE ]
Very nice car...Thanks for sharing. Love the BURNOUT
http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/burnout.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/burnout.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/burnout.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif

[/ QUOTE ]

That picture of yours doing the burnout reminds me of something.... http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/hmmm.gif

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v697/mockingbird812/tn_Camaro009.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v697/mockingbird812/Sonic_boom.jpg


Terrific photo that captures the true essence of these beasts. Love the reflection in the lustorous side panel paint of your car! Git some!!! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif


Concur with... http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif

[firstgenaddict]

is the grille the original one to the car... there is a research topic on the CRG site relating to the chrome bar 68 RS grilles... if it is original to the car you may be able to provide some valuable info...

CRG (http://www.camaros.org)

[169indy]

Thank you all for the Kind comments. It seems the folks around here have the bar set high for standards and it is neat to hear positive comments. I have made some errors during the resto and they are there, but I am slow to correct.
While I was way to young to own this as a new car it is ammazing to fathom that it has been 24+ years. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif
Wierd when you see someone from your youth and they can not remember your name but recall you as the Guy with the RED Camaro,,,,

The Burnout! Fathers day if I remember correctly, Now thoses are BF goodrich silvertown 3/8" F70-14 red stripe tires going up in a CLOUD http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/burnout.gif
Tires purchased in 1985. No internet to find parts then,,,,,remember http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif It seemed the modified CARS outnumbers the stock ones 3 to 1 back then.

Now I need to figure out how to post a video,,,

Thanks again.

Jim Weaver
(169INDY),,,,but that's another story,,,,,,
http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/flag.gif

[Seattle Sam]

Great car, and a great guy! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/worship.gif Thanks for sharing, Jim!

Bruce, ask Jim for some pics of his pacer...
http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif
-Sam

[Xplantdad]

[ QUOTE ]
Great car, and a great guy! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/worship.gif Thanks for sharing, Jim!

Bruce, ask Jim for some pics of his pacer...
http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif
-Sam

[/ QUOTE ]

Jim...are you willing to share...again? http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/dunno.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif

[169indy]

Let see, I will have to back it off the Carrier first
http://www.yenko.net/photos/data/500/69_JB_Pac_Car.jpg
http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif

I will burn a disk for you later this spring and get it in the mail to you.
Everyone should have a Saturday and SUNday (Drop top) car in the garage http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif

Jim

[Xplantdad]

Very good! Thanks Jim! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[Z-11 396]

[ QUOTE ]
Let see, I will have to back it off the Carrier first
http://www.yenko.net/photos/data/500/69_JB_Pac_Car.jpg
http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif

Everyone should have a Saturday and SUNday (Drop top) car in the garage http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif

Jim

[/ QUOTE ]

+++ JIM +++ I FULLY AGREE, ABOUT A '' DROP TOP '', TODAY LOOKS LIKE ONE OF THOSE DAY'S....KASEY ..
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g222/69pacecar/MVC-443F.jpg

[Xplantdad]

Okay, Jim wanted me to post an addendum to his Members Rides feature...and I am happy to do so! BTW, Jim sent it by regular mail! Jim, you rock!

Now you just have to get me pics and a write up for your Pace Car... http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[ QUOTE ]

Dec 02, 2007
Members Rides

Dear Bruce,
Please find enclosed CD. It contains various JPEG pictures of my 1968 Camaro. I included a MS WORD text story ‘write-up’. ( Back in Jan 2007) orig members write up submitted.
It was like Christmas in July. I followed up on a lead I received at work regarding a previous owner of my 68. After talking to the fellow I purchased the car from ‘Dave’ I asked if he had any ‘old’ photos of the car. He indicated he missed owning the car yet the 69 vette that replaced it has made up for the sale and sellers remorse. He recommended I contact his sister-in-law who was the third owner of the car.


It took a while to muster and feel comfortable to cold call her as he freely gave me the contact number and said a call should be well received.
Well the call was well worth the effort and yielded a wealth of car history.
I was able to find that she was working 1967 locally in the shipyard here in Bremerton and was utilizing regional bus transport to and from work. She was in need of a car with the new employment and desireded to own a Camaro. None could be sourced in the Bremerton Kitsap county area so she expanded her search to nearby Pierce county Tacoma, Wa. She checked with the dealer in South Tacoma, South Tacoma Motor Co. (Chevrolet) and they had taken a RED 68 in on trade for a new 1970 Chevelle 307 Malibu. They had not even prepped the Camaro yet and they took her to a un-attached warehouse for her to view the camaro. She purchased the Car ( Her first Car) even though the Red was not a favorite color (This would be rectified at a later date). She enjoyed the car as dependable transportation for years until a wreck occurred which enabled her to have the car painted Ralley Green by a local paint shop in Gorst. She mentioned parts where stolen (Carb & coins) from the car while in the care of the local towing company. I found many areas still with green paint when I painted the car in 1987. In about 1975 she parked the car and purchased a Datsun for commuting to work which was used to combat the price of fuel, this sound familiar.


The car sat in the garage (Notice it in the background of the photos) for 5 years until she sold the 68 to her brother in-law. He had a girl friend who hit a pole and the car saw a re-paint & GM metal back to Matador red. The car was subsequently sold to me in 1983 with 73,000 miles on the clock, the storage must have helped keep the miles down and condition up.


She was very interested that the car existed yet I could detect a little nostalgia that the car represented a by gone age of her life. She was very kind to loan me three vintage photos of the car taken in July of 1970 at her home. Notice that the Car has the incorrect grill emblem installed (Summer of 70), a RS vice SS emblem. That is exactly how I received the car nose emblem. Interesting to me that the emblem had been swapped out at some time early in the cars life yet survived 2 front end hits. For you 68 Guys the car is a LOS body build 12E, 5th week of December of 1967 and it has the rearward sweeping nose stripe! It was a bonus for me because back in the 1980’s when I was painting it I had to choice to make regarding the nose stripe and it is interesting that we nailed the black stripe!

Please add these photos as a follow up to my members rides write up and a ‘REST’ of the story addendum. It never hurts to make ‘the call’ and get lucky sometimes!


Thank you,
Jim Weaver (169INDY)

PNWCC member



[/ QUOTE ]

Here are his vintage pics!

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b156/lotsayenkopics/Members%20Rides/169indy%20Jim%20Weaver/vintage%20pics/tn_scan0001.jpg

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b156/lotsayenkopics/Members%20Rides/169indy%20Jim%20Weaver/vintage%20pics/tn_scan0002.jpg

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b156/lotsayenkopics/Members%20Rides/169indy%20Jim%20Weaver/vintage%20pics/tn_scan0003.jpg

[Bill Pritchard]

Jim,

Thanks for the follow-up with the additional story and the vintage pics! I was also fortunate enough to get vintage pics and the story on my car.....they are priceless http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/worship.gif

[olredalert]

-------Forget the Camaro,,,I want the camper.......Bill S

[RogerD]

<span style="font-size: 14pt"><span style="font-weight: bold">Hey Jim:

Really nice Camaro &amp; your story is just GREAT!
Does the firestation in the background have anything to do with your work?
My nephew lives in Widbey Island and is a VF.</span></span>

[169indy]

I just found the site (Fire Station) in Downtown Bremerton. I used to commute by it every day and thought it would make a great photo site.
I am a sparky (Electrician).

Here is a update photo: In 2012 we added 24 x 30 onto my existing (24x24)garage Camaro Man Cave!
https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/--cdJl1uKidY/UUk8oWsRnkI/AAAAAAAAAOI/doBrt5jNn1I/s640/102_4506.JPG

I get the car out to the local track for a few friday street tire drags and we have a lot of fun with our rides, it does not set the trackon fire, but Hey I am running it and having a blast
https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-B2m4Y_AcTJc/UUk_YhXez6I/AAAAAAAAAOY/WEx2gs4H_mI/s128/100_2209.jpg

And 1 more; this shot is at the defunct Walker Chevrolet in Downtown Tacoma on the lot just north of the main building.
https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-CnQMvbil_YQ/UUlBmpUImnI/AAAAAAAAAOw/0CC-PiYArXg/s640/100_1656.jpg

The signage is gone now and they sell used cars after the GM reorg.



Cheers

Jim

[bbssrs]

well done, nice attension to detail, good to see ya floggin it, no trailer queen here

[bbssrs]

what kind of traction bars are those and do you have a line on any more, looks like ansen ground grabbers. thanks randy

[169indy]

Going to Add a few Updates: The owner that bought it used had sent me a few pictures of the car after she had it painted Metallic Green. Neat series of photos, surprised she remembered I was interested in history. Again when I stripped the car in the 1980's I found Lots of what appeared to be 68 Rally Green under the couple of Red repaints.

I also need to add a few recent shots of events.

JIM

[Xplantdad]

Jim....very cool! :headbang:

[1967Z28]

Great vintage pics, Jim. Thanks for sharing those.

[454_Malibu]

Late to this Party, Puget Sound Pics. Not sure U Can get that Close to beaches anymore. Great Follow Up.

[touspude]

Nice rims! It looks like the Pacer 144S Silver Rallye Wheels I saw on 4wheelonline.

[NorCam]

Very cool Polaroids Jim. Can't wait to see some recent shots too. :headbang:

[randy27]

Totally cool Camaro SS! I really like that color

[169indy]

Adding Various Photos (New & Old)
Big Dog & Friends.

a) Before a Show at Friends
b) 1980's With a Buddies 307 Malibu
c) Edmonds Wa. Car show

in the 1980's friends called the car "Big Dog" cause is got such poor mileage & they knew I would whine for Gas money on trips,,,,,unlike the Chevette in the photo b.

Jim

[Seahawks]

Great pic of "Golden Boy "

[169indy]

Various Related Items to this Car.

2015 Ben Mitchelle Orig Art Work

[NorCam]

Assuming that's you, it looks like Ben captured your goatee in the caricature.

That's perfect!

Had to stop back and run through all these pics again. I never get tired of seeing your 68...gorgeous car!

[169indy]

Thanks,

I Just Broke the "Factory Installed Numbers matching L35"- Ouch!

So OUT it Comes and a CE8 396/375 service motor is going IN!

I will start a Post of the Upgrade.

More Red Dog items to post

Jim

[NorCam]

Oops...hope you didn't hurt the block?

The 375hp will be far more fun to pound on anyways. :3gears:

[olredalert]

----Like all the above, but am jonesing on the white Malibu. That thing looks choice in the pic!....Bill S

[NorCam]

Thanks,

I Just Broke the "Factory Installed Numbers matching L35"- Ouch!

So OUT it Comes and a CE8 396/375 service motor is going IN!

I will start a Post of the Upgrade.

More Red Dog items to post

Jim

When are those update pics coming Jim. I want to see more? :Can-I-Have-It:

[169indy]

Best Christmas EVER!
SO a sneek peeek of Big Dog in the back ground.
as of 12/31/2021

Everyday is Saturday!

I retired from Puget Sound Naval Shipyard with:
40 years, 6 months, 13 days (Service Credit of 41 years 8 months)
DoD -Navy Fed Civilian

Plenty of Time to wrench now!

More Red car photos to come.

Yours in Motors; James

[PeteLeathersac]

'

Big Congrats on your well deserved retirement also best of luck w/ your new career!:flag:
:beers:
~ Pete

.

[69M22Z]

Awesome. Congratulations

[NorCam]

Best Christmas EVER!
SO a sneek peeek of Big Dog in the back ground.
as of 12/31/2021

Everyday is Saturday!

I retired from Puget Sound Naval Shipyard with:
40 years, 6 months, 13 days (Service Credit of 41 years 8 months)
DoD -Navy Fed Civilian

Plenty of Time to wrench now!

More Red car photos to come.

Yours in Motors; James

Very cool. Looks like you got to work on some cool stuff that I could only ever see from the road outside the gates. Did you work on Fast Attack Boats?

[169indy]

Very cool. Looks like to got to work on some cool stuff that I could only ever see from the road outside the gates. Did you work on Fast Attack Boats?

Yes; A Few LoL;

USS Hawkbill (SSN666), USS Drum (SSN677), USS Barb (SSN596), USS Puffer (SSN652), USS Tautog (SSN639), USS Pogy (SSN647), USS William H. Bates (SSN680), USS Columbus (SSN762), USS Pasadena (SSN752).

Many Many Many others (SSN21cl & SSN688cl & SSN774cl SSBN726cl) "OFF HULL" in the Heavy Depot Back shops (Electrical).

I prefer "Boats" [Hunters] that submerge to "Ships" [Targets] that float.

GO NAVY!

[69M22Z]

Very cool.

[NorCam]

That is so cool Jim.

I've always had an attraction to the history of naval war and the various types of U-Boats. The hunter killers are fascinating, and the boomers are also very intriguing. Would love to tour one of the Los Angeles Class boats if I ever get to see one up close. Maybe when one is decommissioned and setup as a floating museum somewhere in PNW.

[169indy]

If ever in the PNW here are two options: Friendly Opportunities.
https://navalunderseamuseum.org/
&
https://omsi.edu/submarine

Decom Nuc Boats are cut up as "razor blades" (aka Recycled) and the Reactors responsibly processed & stored.

688cl Calif tours but you gotta know someone
https://www.csp.navy.mil/css11/Tours/

[NorCam]

I saw the USS Blueback (SS-581) moored in Oregon and have driven over that a couple of times. Never took the time to stop and tour the boat but have said I'd do that some day. Toured USS Pampanito (SS-383) in SF years ago. That was fun to check out.

Anyways...back to the red car? Can you save the original block or was it lunched? Tell us more about the new motor being built?

[169indy]

The Summer 2020 "walk of Shame" first time since I bought it in 83'

I am "assuming" the Factory installed Orig Block will be usable (It Starts w/Lower Knock and Upper rattle), but just set aside while I run the L78 for a few years

Going to run the 840 iron heads (dtd L-7-7 & L-11-7)
The Alum 12363410 GMPP's were just for mock up fun, going to liquidate those for beer cans fodder.

CE850154 Block 323 dtd Unit is over at Cope Machine for Refurb.

It will mate with the "CX" trans in the car I have the "CC" trans tucked away safe and sound.

[NorCam]

That's going to be a pile of fun now.

I assume you're going to have the new stuff in there over the winter months? Oh yeah...that's mostly a bunch of rain for you guys on the coast right? :naughty:

[Xplantdad]

Hi Jim,


Congrats on the retirement! Looking forward to following along on your rebuild!!


:biggthumpup:

[169indy]

The Shop Foreman "Ringo The Cat" Cracking the whip. Engine is removed and stuffed in a corner for future autopsy. Cope Machine still working on L78 (CE850154) 3915323 Hope to get it back this summer and installed. Minor Fluff of some components and eng comp. Note the "CX" 1969 L78 Chevelle Trans (Orig TH400 w/ VIN in a corner safe and sound).

[MikeJesse]

Waiting for the call to help stab the new bullet into the engine bay.:3gears:

[NorCam]

Was hoping you had the new motor ready to go in? I'm dying to hear the new one running in there.

[NorCam]

Hello Jim. Knowing you have all that (retirement) time on your hands now, I was looking in to see if there's an update on your 68.

How are things progressing my friend?

[169indy]

L35 Has broken Rocker and Down Low Knock; Bagged and Put into Laid up for future repairs.

The L78 is in Mid Build at Cope Machine In Tacoma Wa.
They are checking Piston to Valve clearances and ordering additional parts then Off to Dyno for Cam break-in and Tuning.

I expect to take delivery in July.

In the mean time I have been working on a Friends 1966 GTO (Fred)

&

We took the 69 Pace car to the Shelton Ridge Raceway for the West Coast Trans Am race and got to Do 6 Parade Laps at lunch time.

[NorCam]

That's awesome. I'll bet that was fun to do those laps in the pace car.

You guys are lucky to have that and other race tracks right n your backyard like that.

[169indy]

The "CE" L78 Lives and Screams, Well maybe whimpers a bit.

[NorCam]

That's great Jim. So how well did it pull?

[169indy]

I forgot to get the Dyno Sheets and have asked for a copy.
Did not make much power 375/380 in the five thousand+ rpms.
I did not have them spin it up much, basic break in & adjust.
(Hair Lines, Waist Lines and HP claims) You know LoL
I think using some "facts" & poor assumptions of the build and Diamond Pistons Comp calc, we might be around 10.75:1 at Best. I just hope it is peppier than the #'s L35 which I broke. The Numbers matching drivetrain is tucked away & will be rebuilt for future.

This Motor should work wonders with the 69 Chevelle "CX" TH400 that is in the car. I can tell you the L35 & the CX were NOT a happy marriage.

More Soon.

JIM

[169indy]

Motor installed and mated to a Chevelle (Kansas VIN) TH400 "CX" auto.
Working on the various misc systems and attachments next.
Should Lite off in Dec (*I know I am Old and Slow) LoL!

[AnthonyS]

Cool shop!

[169indy]

I added 30' to my existing garage as a Bday gift to myself when I turned 50 to assure, I have a Warm Safe place to play in retirement. 2x6, Insulated, Gas Heated, Sheetrocked, Painted, A/V Screens, Classic LP Tunes, Air in wall, Various machines, Solvent tank, Lots of Delco themed wall hangers & Benches and Storage for stuff on wheels, Polished floor, Etc Attached Final sizing 24' x 54'
Best of ALL if the Boss Hollars, flip the lights and back on station.


LoL I ordered my 1985 S10 in Aug 1984, Still running strong,,,,Like a Kiddy Truck.

[Xplantdad]

Looking great!

[turbo69bird]

You’ll never go wrong adding garage space.

[169indy]

Almost There

[cook_dw]

cLEAN!

[Xplantdad]

Looks great, Jim!!:biggthumpup:

[169indy]

Here is an interesting one. Years Ago, My wife made this for me. Using a Pattern and Cross Stitching in the scheme of the Red Camaro. I was so impressed with her efforts I had it Triple mat and framed. Looking around we can not find the Source or mfr or vendor whom offered this was done in the 1990-ish. I thought I would post it in the Owners 'thread' for the Car.
Related, just not a bolt on part LoL

I think Stoney Creek offers some patterns but not this 67/68 side profile pattern.

* & Yes, I used to have some Weird "Midas Exhaust" prior to the Advent of the Installed correct Gardner versions, Please excuse the Cars Tips,,,,,

Jim

[Xplantdad]

Jim asked me to share the engine start up for his Camaro. Sounds great! :headbang:






jDTDxsbGEIY

[169indy]

The Motor seems to be running reliably and it is time To Button up the Hood and Further Test -n- Tune.
Thanks Bruce for Posting the Vid. I still do not have a Camera on a Phone & used a Vintage Sony Camera for Vid Shooting. I will get a Driving Vid using a Friends phone (LoL)

I have owned the Car since 1983 & It has NEVER pulled like it now does. The Original factory installed L35 will get repaired and stored for a few years while I enjoy the L78 experience.

Will post some More Interesting 'related' photos soon.

Jim

(*PS I should get it out to our Local 1/8 mile track for a (Spring) Friday test n tune evening for a little excitement (Safely) [aka Bremerton Raceway]

https://www.bremertonraceway.com/

[Xplantdad]

Looks and sounds great! Enjoy....:3gears::burnout:

[cook_dw]

Thats one clean 68.

[napa68]

Nothing like the sound of solids:headbang:

[gregbent31]

One of my favorites, nice ride

[169indy]

4 corner scaled.
just for fun

Full tank, show chair and junk in trunk (No driver) #

[169indy]

Posting a Few Car & Car drive shots with Friends rides also.

Friday, ‎July ‎1, ‎2016
Port of Bremerton Airport, Diner.

w/ Scottys 1967 GS400

[Xplantdad]

Looks great Jim!

[169indy]

Posting a Few Car & Car drive shots with Friends rides also.

Friday, ‎May 6, ‎2016
Port of Bremerton; Bremerton Raceway.

w/ Bobby D's 1969 L34 SS Nova

[169indy]

Posting a Few Car & Car drive shots with Friends rides also.

Friday, ‎June 21, ‎2009
A&W; Port Orchard.

w/ Tom G's 2010 SS Camaro

[169indy]

Posting a Few Car & Car drive shots with Friends rides also.

Sat, ‎May ‎2009
On route to *OVAC Garage party; Bremerton-Poulsbo

w/ Mom & Dads [RIP] 1925 Hudson (SuperSix)

*Olympic Vintage Auto Club

[169indy]

Posting a Few Car & Car drive shots with Friends rides also.

Aug Sunday ‎2000's
On route to *Port Orchard Cruz;

w/
Tom M (1969 SS Camaro)
Jim W (1968 SSRS Camaro)
Gary P (1968 Custom Camaro)
Steve J (1963 F/I Vette Roadster)
Jason H (1968 Camaro)
James M (1970 Chevelle)

*Meet up Point Bremerton Clifford's Auto Body Rebuild

[1969L89Corvette]

Great car in the right color! Thanks for the share!

[169indy]

Posting a Few Car & Car drive shots with Friends rides also.

Sunday, ‎August ‎11, ‎2013
XXX Root Beer *PNWCC All Camaro Show, Issaquah, WA;

w/
Clayton R (1969 SS L78 Camaro)

[tom406]

I love that Olympic Gold/Dk Green L78 SS396 next to you in that pic. I don’t run into it as often as I used to.

[169indy]

Posting a Few Car & Car drive shots with Friends rides also.

Saturday, ‎July ‎18, ‎2015,
Elks Car Show, Bremerton, WA;

w/
Tom M (1969 SS Chevelle) (*aka SEAHAWKS)

[169indy]

Posting a Few Car & Car drive shots with Friends rides also.

Friday, ‎July ‎15, ‎2016,.
East Bremerton Car wash, Bremerton, WA;

w/
Bob W (1967 SS Chevelle)

[JMB]

Very cool, thanks for sharing!

[169indy]

To Quote Paul Harvey
" And now you knwo the Rest of the Story,,,,,,,,,,,"

Later that Day.

[169indy]

Posting a Few Car & Car drive shots with Friends rides also.

Aug Sunday ‎2023
On route to *Port Orchard Cruz;

w/
Tom M (1969 Z28 Camaro)
Fred B (1966 GTO)
Jim W (1968 SSRS Camaro)
Gary P (1967 SSRS Camaro)
Jason H (1968 G400)

Same Location as Post #83,, Kinda a Cool restage as years prior.

*Meet up Point Bremerton Gerber Auto Body Rebuild

[169indy]

We would for Years Hide the Kids presents in the "red sleigh" to Hide them from little prying eyes and fingers.

Getting ready to Ride!

Wishing you the Best this season.

* Note My Fathers Vintage Table ad. dressing for Piston Rings Mfr.

Jim

[169indy]

Posting a Few Car & Car drive shots with Friends rides also.

Aug Sunday 1989
At the: Port Orchard Cruz;

w/
Mom

Such a Sad start to the New Year
RIP Marilyn M. Weaver
Mom 1/21/2024

She supported Dads and my Passions for Automobiles. She and Dad were Members of the Local ORM- "Olympic Rally Masters" Car club Est. 1956. She travel thousands of miles with Dad selling piston rings nationally. Her & Dad were plankowners-founders of the combined CLub OVAC, Olympic Vintage Auto Club (Bremerton WA)

We loved traveling with her to all the swap meets and auto club visits.

She and Dad sure forged & fostered my Muscle Car Passions.

Thanks Mom

We love you

James

[Xplantdad]

Sorry to her about your mom's passing, Jim. :frown:

[napa68]

Condolences to you and your family.

Tim

[dykstra]

Sorry to hear this. Deepest condolences to you and your family.

[396 SS/RS]

Great looking car! Condolences to 169indy.

[396 SS/RS]

Fantastic car; and story.
I need to do a small write up of how I acquired, sold, and reacquired my '68 396 SS/RS someday.

[Dave Rifkin]

Fantastic car; and story.
I need to do a small write up of how I acquired, sold, and reacquired my '68 396 SS/RS someday.

I'm glad I am not the only one who has owned one of their cars multiple times. I too owned a 1968 Camaro SS/RS 396, not once but twice and almost bought it back for a third time (still kick myself for not buying it back).
However, the third time will never happen for me since the car is not in Australia (yes I stalked it online and found it on an Australian based car site).

[169indy]

^^ Correct^^
The Population of 1968 SSRS barn finds is well and good; Here are a few (Pair) in Wa. Yet to see the light of day.
A) 1968 SSRS 396/375(?)- 4.11 Vert / Y-2 4speed. (Mitch)
B) 1968 SSRS 396/350 Coupe AC/ N-6 4speed (Stewart)
C) 1968 SSRS 350/300 Coupe T-2 / 4speed (Jim) = photo later

I sure Hope these (My Buddies) guys "Get to them (Restore-Fix) someday"

Happy Hunting

JIM

[169indy]

Our First (2025) >70 degree day & dry enough for a drive with our GTO Tuesday Breakfast Retiree crew.