Lateral-g Forums - The Spirit of '66 Build Thread: AutoX Stingray

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- - The Spirit of '66 Build Thread: AutoX Stingray (https://www.lateral-g.net/forums/showthread.php?t=43179)

https://lateral-g.net/forums/showthread.php4?t=45073
Aaron

I started a build thread finally.
Mike

So, it's been awhile..like four months since the last post. Time for a few updates on the Vette project.

I had to re-read the thread to see what we talked about, but I did mention we ordered a new frame in November. Well, 19 weeks (!) later, we got it. Other than the extended delivery (quoted 6-8), it turned out pretty good. We ordered a stock replacement 66 frame with one exception, full welded seams.

Here is a pic when I picked it up:
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/...psn5iywae7.jpg

We decided on powdercoat as a finish and went with something other than black. It's a metallic silver. Looks great with some black contrasting parts bolted on. Not many on yet but we're getting there.
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/...pssosjjg2u.jpg

We really wanted to do a full bolt-on suspension upgrade. Had a few discussions with the guys at Ridetech about there new setup, but we decided to refurbish the stock front control arms & spindles for now. We want to experience the car before and after the upgrades. We will be running upgraded trailing arms and shocks though.

Cleaning, dis-assembling, and rebuilding the front control arms, rear wheel spindles and half shafts has been nothing short of a huge project. Jill has been making friends with the sandblaster at my shop. She was so happy when I replaced the media that had turned to talc powder.
I was able to machine a test spindle for preloading the bearings to set free play and grind in the spacers to the low end of the tolerance. Here is an exploded view:
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/...psegdloflv.jpg
All new u-joints for the half shafts (non-greasable type) Still have to complete the prop shaft.
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/...pssojiydfl.jpg

Got the uppers and lowers all blasted up and new poly bushings installed. New balljoints also installed after this picture:
http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/...psyptzfudo.jpg

We've been ordering all sorts of clips, brackets, and fasteners for fuel lines, brake lines and linkages. This stuff takes forever:headspin:

The motor is all cleaned up and painted and pretty much ready to go back in. We went with a new Holley HP carb, that things looks awesome. I havent' had a carb on a car in over 20 years I think, lol. Haven't done anything with the transmission, but are considering going thru it just to be safe.

The rear differential was dropped off at a rear-end only shop for re-assembly. We provided all the new replacement parts including a clutch kit for the posi. The shop called and said there was bad news as someone neglected to put the spherical seat behind one of the spider gears and it had cut into the carrier casting. We called a few places and a few friends without luck. So $$$ later, we have a new Auburn LSD unit on the way.

One other thing we did score was a Wilwood brake setup, 6/4 piston. Also a master and prop valve combo. We have a little brake line work to change to get from the stock lines to the prop valve.

We hope the next update won't be so long from now, we are really trying to get this thing back together :G-Dub:

Just read thru this Aaron....wow, what a cool project. :thumbsup:

http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/...psc6267224.jpg

Quote:

Originally Posted by tommycomfort (Post 555977)

Great update Aaron!

Doesn't seem like much to look at, but there's been a lot of time invested (as you are oh so familiar with).

Quote:

Originally Posted by cosmo meant it (Post 555981)

Just read thru this Aaron....wow, what a cool project. :thumbsup:

http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/...psc6267224.jpg

Thanks Skip:thumbsup: pretty sure it's gonna get some looks :D

Aaron,

This is the first look at this bad boy for me.....looks great!! The vintage style is on the comeback like corduroy's and fro's LOL The C2's are such a great platform and are arguably the most awesome body style ever turned out by GM.....just my opinion :) Keep the pics and info coming, I can't wait to get back working on my 65 coupe.......errr, after I finish the Nova :underchair:

P.S, I know where you get get some nice updated headlight motors and a wiper kit :-) I know, it's shameless!!!

R/
Jeff

I'm a little partial to C3's but a flared vette is a flared vette!
Absolutely LOVE it!

Quote:

Originally Posted by 1coolC2 (Post 556018)

Thanks Jeff. It's pretty crazy its been exactly the same way since '76. And I agree, best design from GM for sure. So what would you know about headlights and wipers...

Quote:

Originally Posted by sokoloka (Post 556080)

I'm a little partial to C3's but a flared vette is a flared vette!
Absolutely LOVE it!

Thanks Eric. It's flared for sure. With a side of flair :lmao:

What a perfect base for a project like this!

Where did you (eventually) get the chassis?

Your valve covers and intake look really nice - how did you refinish those?