Project Frankenbird - 1968 Pontiac Firebird

[bdahlg68]

Baby steps. Drivers side drip rail is welded in and quarter and roof test fitted.



Passenger side is next!

[cencalc6]

nice job

[bdahlg68]

A small update....
Passenger side drip rail is welded in. Panels were test fitted and I'm happy so far.

Trunk pan removal has started
DSE tubs are here
JRS front suspension is ordered and should ship next week!
5.3 LM7 truck engine free of charge has been found (just have to ship it in)

Engine build plans are under investigation. Debating stroker kits and top end packages. Targeting around 500hp at the crank. Truckin magazine did a good project with the LM7 and went through all these options so I'm using that as a bit of a guide.

With the baby here there hasn't been any time to do much actual work to the car over the last six weeks (actually none). Maybe some spare time will arise soon!

[bdahlg68]

JRS Apex C6 Front Suspension is in... took a bit longer than planned to get it here, but it's here. Still missing a few bits and pieces, but I test assembled most of it this weekend. Once I get the missing pieces, the frame will go for e-coat and final assembly will be done. Overall the quality seems pretty damn good, especially on the frame. Some long and impressive welds.

[hotrodgary]

Nice project!! I will be watching the progress!

I'm from the Flint area, doing a 64 chevelle wagon.

-Gary

[Hugger67RSSS]

I also bought a JRS frame for my 68 Camaro from Jake and was impressed with the quality, good luck with the build!

[bdahlg68]

Originally Posted by hotrodgary

Nice project!! I will be watching the progress!

I'm from the Flint area, doing a 64 chevelle wagon.

-Gary

Awesome! A buddy of mine is building a 65 Chevelle in Lapeer. If you need suspension let me know. He helped design one!

[bdahlg68]

Originally Posted by Hugger67RSSS

I also bought a JRS frame for my 68 Camaro from Jake and was impressed with the quality, good luck with the build!

Thanks! Waiting on the shocks from Bilstein forever. Then I just need time!

[65_LS1_T56]

What's next? How about some pics, we all love pics.

[Heartlandrods]

Originally Posted by bdahlg68

So I think I found a solution to get my car blasted and primed. I found a company that will pick up, blast, prime, and drop off my car for around $1200-1300. Not bad. Half the price of chemical strip and e-coat.

Anyone recommend a primer to use after blasting? They proposed Kem Kromic as a mid-grade primer. This is just really for the inner structure as I really just want something tough and that will seal well.

PPG DP90 Epoxy primer is what you want after blasting. Will seal everything and you can bodywork right over it!