Chevelle 2.0
 

Back when I got my Chevelle, I didn't do a build thread on Lat-G. Since I'm basically doing a complete overhaul, now is as good a time as any to start a thread.

Here it is in its most recent iteration:

http://i263.photobucket.com/albums/i...n/DSC_0634.jpg

http://i263.photobucket.com/albums/i...n/DSC_0629.jpg

http://i263.photobucket.com/albums/i...e/DSC00854.jpg

http://i263.photobucket.com/albums/i...e/DSC00867.jpg

If you have any interest in the build of the former version, you can check it out here.

Version 2.0 calls for a new chassis (modified stocker), all aluminum 509 BBC, updating the exterior, and updating the interior. Shouldn’t be too much trouble! lol

This is the donor '66 chassis I started with:

http://i263.photobucket.com/albums/i...psfjc7g14s.jpg

Once I got it home, the first thing I did was disassemble it and get it sandblasted.

http://i263.photobucket.com/albums/i...psaf1nblic.jpg

Then I sprayed some primer on it because I knew it would be a while before I actually got to it.

http://i263.photobucket.com/albums/i...psjbab3kw8.jpg

The other thing I did a few years ago was to purchase a front C5 based clip from Scott Mock. I've seen all the negative threads going around, but I bought this before any of that stuff happened. Based on my measurements, everything on my clip appears to be pretty square, so I'm good with it.

http://i263.photobucket.com/albums/i...psvich7r3r.jpg

Fast forward to a couple of weeks ago and I actually started! The first step was to install the SPC and ATS components on the chassis so I could locate the spindle location on the table. I wanted to be sure the front wheels ended up in the same spot once I was done. I made these stands that put the hub and rotor at the same height as if the wheels and tires were in place. Once I was satisfied with that, I stripped it down to the frame.

http://i263.photobucket.com/albums/i...pspsd70pty.jpg

Then I stripped the clip bare and set it on the frame to get an idea of where and how much to cut off.

http://i263.photobucket.com/albums/i...psnowaifft.jpg

Next, I rolled it outside the shop and cut out the front crossmember and frame rails fore and aft of the engine location.

http://i263.photobucket.com/albums/i...psf9kicoa9.jpg

With the stock crossmember gone, I was able to place the new one so I could start getting it squared up and in the proper location.

http://i263.photobucket.com/albums/i...ps5twcarxv.jpg

Once I got the clip where I wanted it, I checked tire clearance and there appears to be enough room for a 315! Also, with the upper control arms bolted to the chassis without any alignment shims, caster came in at 5.5* and camber is -1.5*, which gives me room to dial it in with shims.

http://i263.photobucket.com/albums/i...pssu8ms71v.jpg

So this is where I am now...

http://i263.photobucket.com/albums/i...pscuboclnw.jpg

http://i263.photobucket.com/albums/i...psdu8rmulb.jpg

I still have to tie in the front frame horns and bend arms for the front anti-roll bar. Once that's done, I can move on the rear frame section.

Very cool:thumbsup:

Nice so far. I've always really liked your car. Can't wait to see more.

Nice, good to see a big block between the frame rails.

Very cool, I like your fabrication work grafting the custom C5 based frame clip to your replacement frame.

Nicely done! It's cool to see you making an already great car, even better. Keep us updated please!

Thanks Mike!

Thanks!

Thanks, and not just any big block, but all aluminum! :D

Thanks! Earlier today I cut the front supports off and now the clip is only supported by the sections I welded in. I stood on the front crossmember and it didn't budge. :welder:

Thanks Scott!

Very nice Herb! 66 Chevelles are my favorite Chevelles. Love seeing your already great car get an update. Please tell me you plan to run 315s on the front? Good luck!

Thanks Trey! Yes the plans call for 315 front and 335 rear tires. :thumbsup:

It looks good Herb. Welding the front to the table is a great idea to keep the front frame horns where they need to be. Nice job.