BlackbirdWS6's Blown 1997 Firebird TA WS6 Convertible 6spd

[Blackbirdws6]

There is a build thread documenting most of what occurred while building the car however it got a bit lengthy. This is the consolidated thread for those interested in just the details.

As some of you know, much of this would not have been possible without the help of the JSFBOA, other friends, and my wife. The build was certainly not a walk in the park but when I'm older and look back, it will give me a ton of fond memories. Everything was built in-house aside from the exhaust from the headers back. The roll bar was welded at a friends shop.

The Car:
1997 Firebird TA WS6 Convertible 6spd
GMHTP Feature - January 2012

Performance:
709RWHP / 616RWTQ - Dynojet/tuned by RPM
11.3@131 on 2.0 60' - Will be working on this next season

Mods:

Engine:
350 block bored 30 over and clearanced for a 3.75 stroker crank
4-bolt splayed mains - ARP hardware
Callies Dragonslayer Forged Crank - 3.75 stroke
Callies Compstar Forged 5.7 Rods
JE Forged Blower Pistons -31cc
Clevite H-Series Bearings
LE 21 deg Trickflow heads (300+ CFM intake @ .600 lift)
LE Ported Intake
LE Blower Cam - Mild
AS&M 58mm TB
Comp Ultra 1.6 RRs
Comp Hi-Tech Pushrods
LS7 Lifters
Cloyes Double Roller Timing Chain
ATI Superdamper
LPP LT Headers, Mufflex Custom Y, Mufflex 4" single-in/out 4" magnaflow

Power Adder:
Procharger F1-A 12-rib race kit, 15lb pulleys, twin 3.5" intercoolers
Custom Machined Crank Pulley Spacer
ATi Big Red Open Bypass Valve

Fuel:
80lb High Impedance Siemens Injectors
Lonnies Double Pumper Fuel System
Snow Stage 2 Meth

Drivetrain:
Tick Level 3 T-56
McLeod Street-twin Clutch - Steel Flywheel
Strange Chromoly Driveshaft
Strange S60 Rear - 3.73 Gears/Tru-Trac

PCM:
EFI Connection 24x LS1 PCM Conversion
Custom engine harness

Suspension:
Kenne Brown Double Diamond Subframe Connectors
Strange DA Rear Shocks
RK Sport Panhard Bar
UMI Adj. LCAs
UMI Chassis Mount Torque Arm
UMI LCA Relocation Brackets
Wolfe 6-point Roll Bar

ICE:
Alpine Headunit
Alpine CD Changer
JL W1 10" Subs

Wheels/Tires:
18" AR TTIIs - 18x8 Front / 18x10 Rear
BFG KDW2 - 245/40 Front / 295/35 Rear

Custom Stuff:
LEDs used nearly everywhere
BLS Bi-Xenon Projector Headlight Kit
Stainless Emblems, Ram Air Grills, Etc
Some custom interior bits here and there

[Blackbirdws6]

The Build:

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/Blower%20Build/DSC01897.jpg
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[Blackbirdws6]

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[Blackbirdws6]

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[Blackbirdws6]

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[Blackbirdws6]

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http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/brian_car.jpg

[Blackbirdws6]

1yiNsABPaAE

Oh2rZKoo2U0

yM-ECxRfPiU

WCdImyK7QtQ

I5Dg1cJPM_Q

2if6G_B0Ld8

mrtykOAcczs

[MyFirstZ]

Inspiring !

[LS1ow]

for anyone on this site that hasnt seen this thing is person... you have no idea what your missing. i think its cleaner now than it was when it rolled off the show room !

[LTb1ow]

What kind of wheel studs does this beast run?

[Blackbirdws6]

Inspiring !

Thanks!

for anyone on this site that hasnt seen this thing is person... you have no idea what your missing. i think its cleaner now than it was when it rolled off the show room !

Never good enough for me but thank you.

What kind of wheel studs does this beast run?

Small ones that will be upgraded to larger ones in a couple weeks.

[maroman88]

wow i didnt know it a FULL INTERIOR car! that is amazing, i hate gutted cars lol

[coolmanvette75]

By far my favorite LT1 car out there. Still waiting on that ride tho...

[WSex]

holy cannoli!

[greenformula92]

i love you car. looks and sounds great

[Blackbirdws6]

Thanks guys. Should be a good season to enjoy it much more. Finally got the tune where it needs to be for basic driveability and cooling situation is now under control.

[SickAsHellTom]

Holy **** Nutz, thats SICK!!!! Love LT1 drop tops, i regret selling mine, DAM THATS HOT!!!!

[KirkEvil]

so when does the new pulley get ordered?

[Blackbirdws6]

so when does the new pulley get ordered?

When you order your nitrous.

[KirkEvil]

When you order your nitrous.

You wanna race to the nines?

[Blackbirdws6]

You wanna race to the nines?

Nah, I like my bank statement. Rather keep mine from catching flames plus I need to get to this 10 sec nonsense first.

[KirkEvil]

10s are overrated. A low 6 sec 1/8th is a better goal

[Blackbirdws6]

10s are overrated. A low 6 sec 1/8th is a better goal

One thing at a time.

[Jersey Mike]

I wonder how this shifter & boot would look in between some tan Corbeaus...

http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f149/pyiu/55oakstnorwood/BMW%20Details%202012/seth%20bmw%20z8/DSC_7672.jpg

[Blackbirdws6]

It would stick out like a sore thumb. Looks nice in the pic because the interior is dominated in tan leather. This is not the case in the bird.

[Blackbirdws6]

Front bumper is ready for pickup :mrgreen: :mrgreen: :mrgreen:

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/2012101695040433.jpg
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[ar0ck]

I hope to give this car a run for its money in the looks department in a few more months.Looks gorgeous Brian, its come a long way!

[Blackbirdws6]

I've made a few tweaks to the car recently and had the car retuned at RPM in DE to see the results. I had them do a baseline but unfortunately the information wasn't usable since the car was "spinning its ass off on the dyno". Perhaps it was strapped down loosely but they were confident they had enough tricks to make it hook up when they did the final tune.

While I was surprised peak RWHP nudged only slightly on the top end, midrange power and torque saw a very significant jump. Peak torque is up almost 50 from the previous trip to the dyno. While I would have liked to see those peak numbers rise for internet fame, I think the gains will make a significant difference on the track with a car as heavy as this. The A/F is much improved over the last tune as well which is nice.

RPM believes the LT1 intake may be the restriction. They don't think its the heads since they flow comparable to a good set of ported LS1 units. They even pulled the air filter off the inlet to the head unit to see what would happen and it lost power. Go figure. I will probably ask Lloyd Elliot his thoughts since he would have a better handle on the power capability of my top end.

Since boost is beyond the capabilities of the MAF, the car was tuned in SD. Throttle response is much improved and overall driveability is just better in general. I think the MAF tune could have used some tweaking but the car drove fine, now it just drives more like a "normal" car. Acceleration is quick and smooth and the transition to PE is pretty seamless. I got stuck in some stop and go traffic on the NJ Tpk coming home with it yesterday from DE and I could putter away from 1k rpms in gear without any fuss. So far, I'm a fan of SD tuning.

New Numbers

SAE - 697.55 RWHP / 651.27 RWTQ
Uncorrected - 710.34 RWHP / 661.82 RWTQ

Tweaks from original setup:
- FMIC
- Dual meth nozzle setup
- Smaller supercharger pulley
- Revised supercharger inlet

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/DelucaLT1Dyno_zps3a4a8468.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/DelucaLT1Dyno_zps3a4a8468.jpg.html)

[transmaro93]

looks good brian... bumper was spider cracked?deff gonna give car a big face lift cause aging bumpers are these cars real downfall... congrats on the better numbers too man

[Blackbirdws6]

looks good brian... bumper was spider cracked?deff gonna give car a big face lift cause aging bumpers are these cars real downfall... congrats on the better numbers too man

Bumper was generally beat up from stone chips which drove me nuts. When the front bumper support was ditched, I developed some cracks which made it even worse. Looks great now. Thanks!

[sweetbmxrider]

Was there tuning between pulls?

[Blackbirdws6]

Was there tuning between pulls?

Yes. Last couple were just to confirm it was doing its thing. Notice the run numbers. Fran messed with the part throttle and drive ability for about the entire day Thursday and it shows. Starting to think the cam may be the hold back up top. Not going to mess with it though since it drives so nice.

[sweetbmxrider]

Sooo nice!

[Blackbirdws6]

Sooo nice!

Maybe you can give me your impression from behind the wheel.

[LTb1ow]

You gots the baby cam too?

[Blackbirdws6]

You gots the baby cam too?

Yup. Pretty mild.

[Featherburner]

Congrats! So, Fran did the tune?

[Blackbirdws6]

Congrats! So, Fran did the tune?

Thanks! Yes, Fran did the tune.

[KirkEvil]

You make more power than me at an rpm below my stall speed. sweet jesus

[greenformula92]

looks good man.

[ThoR294]

still haven't seen the car... I fail :(

Can't wait to tear my car apart like this

[Blackbirdws6]

Come to the rental on November 4th. Hopefully it won't come apart on its own.

[Blackbirdws6]

Figure I would update this for folks not viewing the bounce house. To summarize, since this car was first run on the dyno, it's burned oil like crazy. I've been adding oil all along the way and aside from that, the engine has taken a beating with almost 20lbs of boost. I don't drive this car easy and it's been to three rentals and a street night or two. After the last Racewars, I bought a leak down tester and with help from Sweetbmxrider, determined that I'm seeing some significant leakage past the rings.

Deciding to put my pride aside and tired of filling the engine with oil, I decided to have the engine rebuilt by Ellwein Racing Engines. I've know about Karl Ellwein for a while and loved viewing his meticulous rebuilds posted on his site. Some Pals and I removed the engine and drove it down to Maryland. Karl wasted no time tearing everything down. At first glance, it appeared maybe fuel wash was the culprit. Everything else looked really good.

Time passed and when the block made it to the machine shop, it was determined that my cylinders were not only under bored but also slightly oval. I guess the rings couldn't seat too well..... Suffice to say, I'm not too pleased with the shop who previously machined my block.

I decided to upgrade a few things while doing the rebuild. These include:

- Slightly more aggressive cam from LE
- NSA Comp Ultra Pro rockers and ARP 7/16 studs
- ARP main cap studs
- UMI Road Race K-Member, upper and lower tubular A arms
- LT4 Valve Covers
- Mighty Mouse Catch Can

Build Page: http://www.ellweinengines.com/ERE48/ERE48.htm

Pic Link: http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/library/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild


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Sister anticipating her brothers meltdown
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Just a little off
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So much more room for activities
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Progress from this past weekend.

Made some good progress today. Matt stopped over to plumb the multitude of items that require vacuum/boost reference. Overall I'm rather pleased with how this will all turn out. We could had tried to hide things a bit but I preferred accessibility. You will see the new fittings on the intake and the block mounted by the drivers strut tower. Thanks Pal!

I replaced all of the coil bracket bolts with stainless hardware. The bottom ones for the coil standoffs got some loctite and the tops nothing. Sometimes the standoff bolts would loosen so in this configuration, they shouldn't.

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/20140301_101623_zpsk9yiyuux.jpg
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The fuel rails needed some cherry so they got a little love. Top pic is a half and half shot. Bottom is the full deal.

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/20140301_102932_zpsajnslecq.jpg
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Next, the freshly powdercoated accessory bracket was installed and so was the water pump. Plug wires were also installed. I will need to remake these since the LT4 covers are significantly shorter than the Cantons.

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/20140301_185808_zpsq1fvldx6.jpg
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Mounted the F1A and steering pump back in along with a few other items I've been meaning to mess with. It's getting crowded quick but the pile of parts is shrinking. I need to order some fittings tomorrow and need to figure out where to put the catch can.

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/20140302_151014_zpskdjyx1gc.jpg
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/20140302_151046_zps7yjlftvg.jpg

[Paul Huryk]

What is the power/speed goal for the refresh?

[Blackbirdws6]

What is the power/speed goal for the refresh?

Honestly, I wanted to do this just to make it run healthier than it did. I was dumping a quart in every 125ish miles which is just ridiculous. I did not set any particular goals but Ellwein believes it should pick up a considerable amount of power based on the previous poor ring seal and piston to cylinder wall clearances. The new cam should pick up some power up top. I'm more conservative so we will see where it ends up.

[LTb1ow]

800/800

[Paul Huryk]

Honestly, I wanted to do this just to make it run healthier than it did. I was dumping a quart in every 125ish miles which is just ridiculous. I did not set any particular goals but Ellwein believes it should pick up a considerable amount of power based on the previous poor ring seal and piston to cylinder wall clearances. The new cam should pick up some power up top. I'm more conservative so we will see where it ends up.

125 miles per quart is a lot.

More boost too?

[Blackbirdws6]

800/800

That would be cool but I dunno. We will see.

125 miles per quart is a lot.

More boost too?

Yes it is way too much. I had what is best referred to as range anxiety. The car was originally pullied for 15lbs and now runs about 19. I have a little more left to go but I want to see what it does with no other changes but the fresh rebuild and new cam.

[WildBillyT]

804/721

[V]

im in for 740/801 .
edit: or even 801/740 which i think i meant to begin with.

[LTb1ow]

As I have said before, you should see way less boost than me and out do me WHP wise, so once those pistons seal up nicely... dis gun b good.

140+ traps?

[PolarBear]

12/14

[Blackbirdws6]

Interesting guesses. I'm debating on who I want to retune the car. RPM would likely cut me a deal but they are far away and I wasn't pleased how they handled a friends car. TTP is on my list but I will cry a bit since they use a mustang dyno so lower numbers may be a result. I could always jump on a dynojet later to see the difference though. I would just like an apples to apples comparison though.

Matt - Why would I see less boost with a better ring seal? 140 traps may be possibru especially if I may some more power, drive the car better and drop a lil weight.

[LTb1ow]

Interesting guesses. I'm debating on who I want to retune the car. RPM would likely cut me a deal but they are far away and I wasn't pleased how they handled a friends car. TTP is on my list but I will cry a bit since they use a mustang dyno so lower numbers may be a result. I could always jump on a dynojet later to see the difference though. I would just like an apples to apples comparison though.

Matt - Why would I see less boost with a better ring seal? 140 traps may be possibru especially if I may some more power, drive the car better and drop a lil weight.

I am saying with your much better flowing heads your X psi will be a much higher power rating from the much higher flow than my X psi and ****** flow. So my hope is that you will need less psi to make the same if not more power than you did previously. So assuming the crappy ring seal was killing you, that pullied 20psi will net you higher gains this time round.

lulz, round.

[Paul Huryk]

In theory, better ring seal (with no other changes) will give you slightly more power and definitely control the oil 10x better (or more). Boost might change slightly - maybe 1/2 psi or less.

But changing the cam profile will either let more air into the heads (lowering boost slightly), or it may even stay the same - with no other changes. You might also have more bleed off with a larger cam.

Not like I'm an expert, but I'll guess 760/695 as your number.

[Blackbirdws6]

I am saying with your much better flowing heads your X psi will be a much higher power rating from the much higher flow than my X psi and ****** flow. So my hope is that you will need less psi to make the same if not more power than you did previously. So assuming the crappy ring seal was killing you, that pullied 20psi will net you higher gains this time round.

lulz, round.

That made more sense. I agree the ring seal will contain more of the "bang" than before. Maybe I will actually put this bottom end to the test.

In theory, better ring seal (with no other changes) will give you slightly more power and definitely control the oil 10x better (or more). Boost might change slightly - maybe 1/2 psi or less.

But changing the cam profile will either let more air into the heads (lowering boost slightly), or it may even stay the same - with no other changes. You might also have more bleed off with a larger cam.

Not like I'm an expert, but I'll guess 760/695 as your number.

The cam lift is actually rather similar. It is going from a 224/236 115 to a 229/239 112. Lloyd was spot on with his cam spec before so while he says I might lose a bit down low, I should make it up considerably up top. After I informed him of the ring sealing problem, his comments were more definitive in gaining power all across the board.

[sweetbmxrider]

What everyone is forgetting is that the piston was contacting about 37% of the surface area in the bore (I rounded, shoot me) and that the increased friction of a circular bore will thus slow the piston's travel time down considerably. This, as obvious as it sounds, will slow the car down significantly. Sure, you might gain a +5hp per circular bore but you will slow the rotating assembly which is never a good thing.

[Blackbirdws6]

What everyone is forgetting is that the piston was contacting about 37% of the surface area in the bore (I rounded, shoot me) and that the increased friction of a circular bore will thus slow the piston's travel time down considerably. This, as obvious as it sounds, will slow the car down significantly. Sure, you might gain a +5hp per circular bore but you will slow the rotating assembly which is never a good thing.

Interesting thoughts. I'm still a bit amazed the pistons looked as good they did.

[Paul Huryk]

What everyone is forgetting is that the piston was contacting about 37% of the surface area in the bore (I rounded, shoot me) and that the increased friction of a circular bore will thus slow the piston's travel time down considerably. This, as obvious as it sounds, will slow the car down significantly. Sure, you might gain a +5hp per circular bore but you will slow the rotating assembly which is never a good thing.

There is always a tradeoff. For instance the V10 in the LFA is the fastest revving motor in a production car. But for it's size and number of pistons, it's volumetric efficiency is down 5 or 6% compared to the 458 Italia's 8 cylinder and even a really nice 570hp H/C/I LS3.

My point is that being able to rev fast is not be all end all. Now if Brian's engine picks up 40hp just from the improved ring sealing, it will easily overcome the increase in friction - at least in 3rd gear and above. Couple that with a little better breathing from the updated cam profile and (maybe) some more boost, no contest...

A 383 with 20lbs of boost doesn't need to rev like a banshee to move the car - area under the curve does that on its own. Amen

[sweetbmxrider]

I was kinda kidding :lol:

[Paul Huryk]

I was kinda kidding :lol:

LOL

Didn't think you were...

[PolarBear]

LOL

Didn't think you were...

When it is Pal to Pal conversing, they are usually Shenz'ing

[Blackbirdws6]

More progress this weekend which included:

- Filled trans with oil
- Mounted a/c compressor, belt tensioner
- Installed new header collector gaskets and resealed y-pipe connection
- New custom front brake lines installed - Courtesy of Adam
- Vacuum line and other accessory connections made/ Fittings tightened / Things hid - Courtesy of Matt
- Cooling system plumbed
- Wiring harness run and all connections made sans a couple items
- Silly 4" 120 deg blower inlet mounted


What's left:
- Connect fuel lines to rail (bought new clips for safety which should be here in a couple days)
- Install brake master, fill will fluid, checks for leaks and bleed
- Extend the Hobbs switch wire from passenger to drivers side
- Finish blower intake
- Reconnect ground and power wires
- Connect charge pipes from blower to intercooler
- Mount new catch-can and run hoses
- Re-install rad fans
- Reconnect methanol lines
- Install battery
- Check all connections (Vacuum, wiring, etc)
- Prep fire extinguisher and bake depression brownies

A couple quick engine shots. Matt did a great job cleaning things up. It's still busy but it looks worlds better than it did before.

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/20140317_080530_zpsowrbdebf.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/20140317_080530_zpsowrbdebf.jpg.html)

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/20140317_080537_zpsjm2jxopm.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/20140317_080537_zpsjm2jxopm.jpg.html)

Not a great pic but Adam did a great job with the lines. The K can now be dropped (I hope not) without having to remove the brake lines.
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/20140317_080613_zps7qa3alcr.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/20140317_080613_zps7qa3alcr.jpg.html)

[transmaro93]

looken good... im forever jelous of your engine bay neatness

[Blackbirdws6]

looken good... im forever jelous of your engine bay neatness

Thanks man. Still feels like 10lbs of **** being stuffed into a 5 lb bag but doing the best with the room available.

[LTb1ow]

Neatness is not the word I would use.

Overflowing would work, or stuffed to the brim.

[Blackbirdws6]

Neatness is not the word I would use.

Overflowing would work, or stuffed to the brim.

Maybe purposeful? By the way, I suppose I need to double check to make sure the right injector wire went to the correct injector?

Forgot to add to the list:

- Install serp belt and blower belt. Tighten to provide banjo string tension.

[LTb1ow]

Oh yes, check those injectors.

You wanted a 3/4 swap right?

[Blackbirdws6]

Oh yes, check those injectors.

You wanted a 3/4 swap right?

Guess I better make a checklist to check the checklist. I tried to connect the fuel lines late on Sunday and noticed they didn't want to click in easily. I got one to click (or so I thought) and when I jiggled it, the line popped off.

I ordered new plastic clips but should the piece be inserted into the fuel line prior to connecting it to the rail or vice versa?

[sweetbmxrider]

The plastic clips go on the fuel rail. The line snaps over it. You guys should have asked me for help, I'm excellent at these things.

[WSex]

ditched the optimagic?

[Blackbirdws6]

The plastic clips go on the fuel rail. The line snaps over it. You guys should have asked me for help, I'm excellent at these things.

Thanks for the info. Should have asked but wanted you to focus on things that help the car stop.

ditched the optimagic?

Long gone although I never had an opti problem. I made the switch mainly for tuning flexibility.

[Blackbirdws6]

So this happened today. Battery was a little low on charge but within about a minute of running, the car found idle pretty well. In certain points of the video, I only gave it a slight amount of throttle (10%) which brought it up to around 2.2k. Sounds louder in the video. It may be just me but I think the engine is even smoother than before.

The brakes are bled and I just need to make a few minor adjustments to the suspension, toss the wheels on and take this thing for a ride to start breaking it in. Big thanks to all the folks who helped get the car this far. I am a real happy guy. :)

pwllxaEJrtY

[maroman88]

that sounds amazing

[sweetbmxrider]

Glad the brakes bled and didn't leak.

[WildBillyT]

Holy ****ing whistle Batman

[LTb1ow]

Will this be at the april meet???

Would love to see this thing in person!

[BonzoHansen]

appears to smoke a lot less!

[sweetbmxrider]

Hopefully it smokes moar at the track! :drool:

[Blackbirdws6]

Holy ****ing whistle Batman

With the hood open, the bypass is right there so it would be a bit quieter with it closed. It's still going to be loud and I have no problem with that.

Will this be at the april meet???

Would love to see this thing in person!

Depends if I can get the alignment done and some break-in miles on it. Granted there are no issues with any of these items, I can bring it if the weather is nice.

appears to smoke a lot less!

Yes, there was no black mark on the ground like before and no noticeable puffing from the exhaust. Seems to be running the cleanest it ever has. We will see how it looks after I break it in and throw ~20lbs at it. :twisted:

Hopefully it smokes moar at the track! :drool:

:nod:

[Blackbirdws6]

Still no word from either of the prospective tuners.

[greenformula92]

awaiting GMHTP update article lol

[Blackbirdws6]

awaiting GMHTP update article lol

Probably a long shot but I will likely drop them a line when I feel it would be ready. The car will be rolling around on the stock 5 spoke chrome 16's for a bit. Once the car is feeling good, I will splurge on new wheels.

[LTb1ow]

Still no word from either of the prospective tuners.

Call TTP, setup appointment with Tony, and be done.

Best bet if you want to talk is to swing by their shop and grab Matt when he isn't doing 50 other things. :lol:

Gotta be short and succinct

[greenformula92]

Probably a long shot but I will likely drop them a line when I feel it would be ready. The car will be rolling around on the stock 5 spoke chrome 16's for a bit. Once the car is feeling good, I will splurge on new wheels.

i'm kinda kidding. i'm sure you won't get another full feature.

it definitely seems to be running much better though judging by the lack of exhaust smoke. I wouldn't be surprised if your dyno numbers come up as it seems much healthier

as far as tuners go I am going to use EFX but that's because my options are limited being TPI

[Blackbirdws6]

Call TTP, setup appointment with Tony, and be done.

Best bet if you want to talk is to swing by their shop and grab Matt when he isn't doing 50 other things. :lol:

Gotta be short and succinct

Short and succinct are two things I don't do when it comes to this. I do not live down the street from them either so I would rather not have to come back unless there was an issue on my end. I don't want to just make an appointment without discussing some questions I have. These mainly have to deal with what tires I bring and also if I should have some bigger injectors in my pocket.

[Paul Huryk]

Probably a long shot but I will likely drop them a line when I feel it would be ready. The car will be rolling around on the stock 5 spoke chrome 16's for a bit. Once the car is feeling good, I will splurge on new wheels.

When you are ready, let me know and I will use what little pull I have as an advertiser to get an feature in GMHTP.

[BonzoHansen]

Yes, there was no black mark on the ground like before and no noticeable puffing from the exhaust. Seems to be running the cleanest it ever has. We will see how it looks after I break it in and throw ~20lbs at it. :twisted::nod:

I'm curious if your O2s and spark plugs will be happier now too.

[Blackbirdws6]

When you are ready, let me know and I will use what little pull I have as an advertiser to get an feature in GMHTP.

Very cool. I've seen them do little updates but I have done a number of changes since the first feature. Perhaps my oval/underbore cylinder back story will qualify for exciting toilet reading.

I'm curious if your O2s and spark plugs will be happier now too.

I am honestly surprised they didn't immediately foul or fail. I switched to a non-projected tip plug this go around too.

[sweetbmxrider]

Short and succinct are two things I don't do when it comes to this. I do not live down the street from them either so I would rather not have to come back unless there was an issue on my end. I don't want to just make an appointment without discussing some questions I have. These mainly have to deal with what tires I bring and also if I should have some bigger injectors in my pocket.

And RPM is? I think an hour fifteen is a little more reasonable and "local" compared to anything else. Take a trip down in the f8tal after discussing with him on the phone about a face to face meeting etc.

[Blackbirdws6]

And RPM is? I think an hour fifteen is a little more reasonable and "local" compared to anything else. Take a trip down in the f8tal after discussing with him on the phone about a face to face meeting etc.

TTP is certainly much more reasonable regarding travel. RPM is not on the top of my list for reasons you already know. I don't have the time during the week to get down there during their work hours. A face to face isn't necessary for the questions I have. A phone call is more than appropriate and easiest for all parties.

[LTb1ow]

TTP is certainly much more reasonable regarding travel. RPM is not on the top of my list for reasons you already know. I don't have the time during the week to get down there during their work hours. A face to face isn't necessary for the questions I have. A phone call is more than appropriate and easiest for all parties.

They are there on Saturdays, so we could swing over with car after alignment.

[sweetbmxrider]

The stars, they are aligning.

[Blackbirdws6]

Hmmm

[LTb1ow]

Just need to schedule things, and what not.

[Blackbirdws6]

I should get a phone call within the hour.

[LTb1ow]

Their notorious for forgetting, make sure to annoy them.

[Blackbirdws6]

Their notorious for forgetting, make sure to annoy them.

At least they are consistent....

[redorange97]

Love it!

[Blackbirdws6]

So here is an update on the car...somewhat a long one.

The engine went back in the car but after a troublesome break-in, it was burning oil again. This was pretty depressing since the entire purpose of taking apart a running/driving car was to solve this issue. As some know, the car drove/ran pretty well even with the heavy oil consumption.

After discussing the issue with the builder and the piston ring manufacturer, a few tricks were tried to alleviate the issue but it wasn't getting any better. I thought I had the issue almost resolved at one point but I guess its tough to see smoke driving the speed limit on the highway. I had the car retuned against my better judgement thinking this would help in the long run. The tuner was not able to dial in the tune for obvious reasons and went conservative to avoid an issue. While the car drove better and felt more powerful, it still burned oil badly.

Retune dyno runs resulted in around 654rwhp/616rwtq on a mustang dyno. (spun on the first run) As you can see from the graph, power seems to taper towards the top end. The tuner mentioned I was loosing boost so I likely was experiencing a little bit of valve float. Turns out when the heads were redone, there was a miscommunication on the amount of seat pressure needed. These were setup for 150lbs but I actually should be in the 165-175lb range. Oops....

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/TTPRetune7-17-2014_zps1619a2fa.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/TTPRetune7-17-2014_zps1619a2fa.jpg.html)
IRl65x55jxA

I was undecided/heartbroken/depressed/etc on what to do at this point knowing another rebuild who be costly and the effort would be significant given my free time was very limited. Without support of great family and friends, this likely would have sat in the garage as a sign of failure. And so out it came and off to Pal Performance. Things should be easy but they rarely are when you try and save a buck here and there. I was convinced my Yukon XL 1500 would tow the heavy car but it was going to need some help.

Tow upgrades (yes I know this is all overkill and the truck will explode any minute)

New Class IV hitch, Tekonsha brake controller, larger trans cooler, rear coil spring bags, bluetooth OBD reader/Torque app to monitor temps. Oh and new HID projector headlights, fog housings/lights and turn signal housings.

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/Yukon%20XL/20140713_081507_zps5udel9fw.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/Yukon%20XL/20140713_081507_zps5udel9fw.jpg.html)

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/Yukon%20XL/FB_IMG_1409413465139_zpsipxaykgf.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/Yukon%20XL/FB_IMG_1409413465139_zpsipxaykgf.jpg.html)

It was slow going and I took it easy but she did it!

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/20140905_130750_zps65vypve6.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/20140905_130750_zps65vypve6.jpg.html)

And out it comes.

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/20140905_164645_zpstt5uzjiw.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/20140905_164645_zpstt5uzjiw.jpg.html)

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/20140905_164710_zps1c66niyg.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/20140905_164710_zps1c66niyg.jpg.html)

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/20140905_172634_zpsdwnbcxpo.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/20140905_172634_zpsdwnbcxpo.jpg.html)

The engine was loaded in the back of the truck and I headed down to Ellwein's at 4:30AM. I was a bit tired so since I was riding solo, the only way to stay awake was volume 11 blasting of Five Finger Death Punch and DMX. I arrived at 9ish and we started pulling the engine apart.

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/20140906_113341_zpskb4yjswy.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/20140906_113341_zpskb4yjswy.jpg.html)
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/20140906_113353_zpsz6ia7xyu.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/20140906_113353_zpsz6ia7xyu.jpg.html)
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/20140906_113401_zpsndic1gvl.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/20140906_113401_zpsndic1gvl.jpg.html)
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/20140906_113416_zpsvtllv9yn.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/20140906_113416_zpsvtllv9yn.jpg.html)
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/20140906_113430_zpswvtqapn1.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/20140906_113430_zpswvtqapn1.jpg.html)

As you can see, the bores are a little too shiny and the crosshatch is gone. There are a number of ideas on what is happening to cause the issue twice. Some say fuel wash, others say its the ring design. All of the hard parts (except the block bores) were in great shape which is good. While this is apart, I am going to up the compression a bit but this will require new pistons/rods.

While the engine has been out, I took a look at the trans input shaft to see if there are signs of twisting or other wear. No twisting but the splines have been taking a beating. Guess this is what happens when you put this much power into a 4000lb car.

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/20140911_074550_zpsrib5cqdu.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/20140911_074550_zpsrib5cqdu.jpg.html)

I picked up a new input shaft and took the trans to Bob Hanlon in PA. I met Bob yesterday. Nice guy and knows his stuff. My hope was the trans didn't have any other major issues and we could just change the input shaft. He opened it up and thankfully everything looked good except the main cluster was showing common wear for high HP cars without a fluid pump. Nothing was broken but it will likely make a little bit of noise. Considering the noise of the blower and exhaust, I doubt I would hear a thing. At some point, I can have Bob go through the entire trans and install fittings for a fluid pump to retain the life of the cluster long term. Seeing as I don't track the car often, I don't see a need to upgrade at this time (famous last words). A new shaft is in and looks good.

So the game plan is to have the block remachined/honed, new Diamond custom pistons (double diamond coating), conventional style rings for boost, new link bar lifters, and new valve springs. The engine will be broken in outside of the car to seat the rings before it goes back in the car. I will also be sending the clutch out for a rebuild just to start fresh.

Hopefully this time it all works out.

[ThoR294]

I blame the convertible top. Lol

I couldn't imagine that feeling with it STILL burning oil.

So what caused the oil consumption? The cylinder walls were not sealing with the rings?

[Blackbirdws6]

Top goes up and down. No problem there.

Machine work seemed to be the cause the first time around. This time, not entirely sure. Some say fuel wash, others blame the ring style but regardless there is a sealing issue so changing things around to a more conventional arrangement should correct the problem.

[ThoR294]

Good. Maybe I can finally see it at race wars lol

[Blackbirdws6]

Its missing an engine still so very unlikely it will make it.

[LTb1ow]

Next year, shall be epic. I hope.

Dueling boosted LT1s:twisted:

[ThoR294]

Its missing an engine still so very unlikely it will make it.
What's the ETA on the build? :(:(:(:(

Dueling boosted LT1s makes me happy

[Blackbirdws6]

Next year, shall be epic. I hope.

Dueling boosted LT1s:twisted:

Should be fun!

What's the ETA on the build? :(:(:(:(

Dueling boosted LT1s makes me happy

I will likely have the engine back in a month or so. Custom Pistons are 3-5 weeks so that will be the big delay.

[sweetbmxrider]

Nice update man, can't wait to hear all went well on the break-in.

[Blackbirdws6]

Nice update man, can't wait to hear all went well on the break-in.

Thanks! Been meaning to post the details but it's been a bit busy (same for everyone!). I spoke with Karl on my way in to work this morning. He was headed to the machinist today to discuss the work needed for the block. He will also be calling Diamond to get the pistons figured out as well. We are a bit undecided on the rod choice. We originally were considering a 5.85 rod mimicking some of his other boosted builds but a 6.0 may be ideal too. Decisions, decisions.

[Blackbirdws6]

Time for an update.

It appears we have found the smoking gun regarding the persistent oil consumption. Karl sent the heads to a different shop to get looked over, cleaned up and to install the new Manley valve springs I picked up. The consensus is that the valve seals installed in the first rebuild had come loose and were riding the valve, effectively PUMPING oil into the cylinders. The rings may have been fine. Even though the oil consumption symptoms were very similar, it's tough to say if this was an issue with the original build. The heads were gone through on the first rebuild and nothing was mentioned as being out of the ordinary (besides tell tale signs of valve float).

So here is where things stand:

- New Diamond custom forged pistons ordered, 2618 material, double diamond coating, H13 pin, machined ring area after coating. These should arrive the first week of November.
- New Callies 5.85" forged rods
- New Total Seal conventional style rings in hand
- New Crower link bar lifters
- Block work is done. Just needed a hone.
- New King bearings will be installed all around.
- Heads have new Manley springs setup to avoid any future valve float

Website has been updated.

http://www.ellweinengines.com/ERE48/ERE48ReDo.htm

[sweetbmxrider]

He likes your steam pipe setup?

:facepalm: No longer idolize

[Blackbirdws6]

You can tell him in person when I pick it up. :)

[ThoR294]

Nice. Glad you found the culprit!!!

[greenformula92]

Well that would do it for sure. Glad you figured out what went wrong this time around

[ThoR294]

If only it was ready for race wars :(:(:(

[LTb1ow]

He likes your steam pipe setup?

:facepalm: No longer idolize

Its a work of art.

:bertstare:

[edpontiac91]

The work that has gone into this project could fill a HOT ROD issue from front to back cover. I don't understand 3/4 of what you guys talk about and can only imagine what the total COIN must be. You are one lucky guy to have Gina giving you support on this. By now, I would have been living under a rock with a pair of HD ear plugs:lol:!

[Blackbirdws6]

Well that would do it for sure. Glad you figured out what went wrong this time around

Yup. This better go right this time.

If only it was ready for race wars :(:(:(

Things happen for a reason. Upon pulling it apart, I noticed a good amount of wear on the trans input shaft so it's good that was replaced. I also had the clutch rebuilt so it was a good time to do it.

Its a work of art.

:bertstare:

It is!

The work that has gone into this project could fill a HOT ROD issue from front to back cover. I don't understand 3/4 of what you guys talk about and can only imagine what the total COIN must be. You are one lucky guy to have Gina giving you support on this. By now, I would have been living under a rock with a pair of HD ear plugs:lol:!

Sanity and rational thinking are out the window with any of this. Gina is never shy about her thoughts on all this. She does like to go fast though.

[sweetbmxrider]

She likes to shop too! Amazon prime baby!!

[ThoR294]

You are a lucky man. My girl could give 2 s***s about my car lol

[Blackbirdws6]

Time for a quick update while everyone waits for their turkey dinner.

Parts are arriving and assembly has started. The engine has an appointment for the dyno on December 13th. The engine will be ran on the dyno with a carb intake for simplicity since our intent is to simply break in the engine (and seat the damn rings!). I have no idea what it will put down NA. After the dyno and a basic inspection to confirm all is well, I will be taking the engine home with me.

While I have been waiting, I had the McLeod twin disc rebuilt, input shaft replaced on trans along with a few other small odds and ends. The cylinder heads are complete and needed more work than originally anticipated. The new Manley Nextek springs needed to be setup for around 165-175lbs on the seat but after install as is, the intake pressure was way too high. The intake valve seats needed some machine work to even everything up. Tracking down a proper set of retainers/locks was a mini adventure. Only one set would work for the springs and valves but we got it. Whew.

Now for some pics. Karl has been an excellent communicator through this process. I tend to bug him often and he has always gotten back to me quickly whether he has an answer or not.

That Diamond sexiness - These are -29cc dished pistons, double diamond coating, gas ports, extra machine work after coating along with a few other things.

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/IMG951700_zpshqoenqsi.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/IMG951700_zpshqoenqsi.jpg.html)
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/IMG_1698_zpsh9ypl7jp.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/IMG_1698_zpsh9ypl7jp.jpg.html)


Ring filing. Going for 0.030 per Total Seal chart (these are conventional style rings)
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/IMG_1744_zpsxymgqvpm.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/IMG_1747_zpslgg0u3ai.jpg.html)
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/IMG_1747_zpslgg0u3ai.jpg

Crower Link Bar Lifters
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/IMG_1739_zpsm6br14oz.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/IMG_1739_zpsm6br14oz.jpg.html)

Block cleaned/prepped - Green on the bores is Total Seal quick seat.
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/IMG_1748_zpscpaglupe.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/IMG_1748_zpscpaglupe.jpg.html)

Rebalanced crank back in her home - endplay around 0.008 which is within spec and where I was originally
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/IMG_8472_zpsjp2hdljp.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/IMG_8472_zpsjp2hdljp.jpg.html)
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/IMG_1752_zpsthsoyk7h.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/IMG_1752_zpsthsoyk7h.jpg.html)

New lifters required longer pushrods. Karl amazed me and himself by having the exact part I needed on his shelf. These are Comp Hi-Tech pushrods. Same brand/model I had before, just longer (7.2 vs 7.5)

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/IMG951757_zpscp9bmnw4.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/IMG951757_zpscp9bmnw4.jpg.html)

New Callies 4340 forged 5.85 rods arrived!
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/IMG_1799_zpsbywiw7xs.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/IMG_1799_zpsbywiw7xs.jpg.html)

[sweetbmxrider]

Those are some nice parts! Those pistons are insane!! I like how the end play is around .008.....like that is some rough measurement :lol:

[ThoR294]

wow. what an engine lol

[greenformula92]

That is some serious sexiness going on there.

[Blackbirdws6]

Updates posted today!

http://www.ellweinengines.com/ERE48/ERE48ReDo.htm

[Blackbirdws6]

Update for those that do not enter the bounce house.

Engine dyno was yesterday for break in before it goes back in the car with the blower. This was done NA with a carb intake to keep things simple.

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/1213140905_zpskodxxjxw.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/1213140905_zpskodxxjxw.jpg.html)
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/1213140905b_zpsymgwl050.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/1213140905b_zpsymgwl050.jpg.html)
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/1213140905f_zpsu6jspi5f.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/1213140905f_zpsu6jspi5f.jpg.html)
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/1213140906_zps88ddu15g.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/1213140906_zps88ddu15g.jpg.html)
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/1213140907_zps80zy9clf.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/1213140907_zps80zy9clf.jpg.html)
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/1213140907b_zpsljwyzjt9.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/1213140907b_zpsljwyzjt9.jpg.html)
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/1213140948_zpsvgls06it.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/1213140948_zpsvgls06it.jpg.html)
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/1213141733_zpshbbb7xuj.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/1213141733_zpshbbb7xuj.jpg.html)
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/1213141733b_zpsulittfem.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/1213141733b_zpsulittfem.jpg.html)
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/1213141824_zpsl0kx5ddw.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/1213141824_zpsl0kx5ddw.jpg.html)


A3SDbpSVGDc
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/BlackbirdWS6EngineDynoResults_zps080bbd52.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/BlackbirdWS6EngineDynoResults_zps080bbd52.jpg.html )

[LTb1ow]

What made you go carb?

[Featherburner]

This was done NA with a carb intake to keep things simple.


What made you go carb?Quoted for the illiterate!:lol:

[Blackbirdws6]

What made you go carb?

I heard all the cool kids do it.

Quoted for the illiterate!:lol:

You got hooked. Featherburner on!

[Featherburner]

You got hooked. Featherburner on!No hooking here.:wink:

[LTb1ow]

Hook line, and sinker :lol:

[Paul Huryk]

Nice - over 500hp NA from 5500 to 6500 - sign me up!

[Blackbirdws6]

What a weekend! I don't care if I sound like a broken record but man I've got some GREAT friends and family. I'm always astounded why these folks continue to support my projects and will be forever grateful.

On to the update for those not in the BH.

Prior to this weekend, I was tasked with dressing the motor but first, I had to replace the bum crank hub seal in the timing cover. In theory, this shouldn't have been a big deal but I have a special gift and ended up putting my face into the throttle body, effectively giving me a nice gash on my cheek. I was pressing the crank hub on the crank snout with a homemade tool. It was a stubborn bastard and one of the wrenches slipped while I was going at it full force. After the bleeding stopped, the hub was fully pressed on and we were ready to continue.

Old seal
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/0103151252_zpsi638psm2.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/0103151252_zpsi638psm2.jpg.html)

A little while later, I finished up dressing the motor in preparation for the big install day. My dad spent hours hand polishing the accessory bracket. He played it off like it wasn't a big deal but I know how long this process takes. It came out great!

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/0118151321_zpskrogd6zc.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/0118151321_zpskrogd6zc.jpg.html)

While giving the bracket one last hit on the bench polisher, I decided to injure myself again. I was careless and didn't have the polisher bolted down very well. When the buffer hit an edge on the bracket, it sprung free and landed on my forearm. Suffice to say, its still healing....same goes for what little pride I had left.

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/0118151324_zpstdgohzqt.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/0118151324_zpstdgohzqt.jpg.html)

I figured I would have less chance hurting myself by gapping plugs while watching TV. This was uneventful. I went with NGK BR7EF plugs gapped at 0.28. These are a non-projected, 2 step colder plug.

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/0118151919_zpsq9cu6tu0.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/0118151919_zpsq9cu6tu0.jpg.html)

This past Friday, I took PTO from work, loaded the Yukon and had the car towed to Pal Performance. I arrived while the sun was shining so I gave her a quick bath and we put the bird inside the shop. Adam and I slapped on some Road Wrap product to give the paint a little extra protection (not shown in pic below).

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/0123151429_zpst9a3j1op.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/0123151429_zpst9a3j1op.jpg.html)

Before getting the engine prepared for install onto the k-member, we installed the new plugs, headers with new gaskets & ARP bolts, coil packs, new pilot bearing, SFI bell housing w/motor plate, McLeod twin disk clutch, etc.

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/IMG_3699_zpsgxdcazue.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/IMG_3699_zpsgxdcazue.jpg.html)
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/IMG_3700_zpsigrrl4ik.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/IMG_3700_zpsigrrl4ik.jpg.html)
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/IMG_3701_zpsdwc2lntb.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/IMG_3701_zpsdwc2lntb.jpg.html)
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/IMG_3703_zpsg3tgqrfx.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/IMG_3703_zpsg3tgqrfx.jpg.html)
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/IMG_3704_zpsabm0b7sy.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/IMG_3704_zpsabm0b7sy.jpg.html)

On to the K it goes!

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/0124151247_zpskwqoxua6.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/0124151247_zpskwqoxua6.jpg.html)

Trans installed as well.

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/0124151247a_zpseziueasg.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/0124151247a_zpseziueasg.jpg.html)

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/0124151247b_zps1y1ogntn.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/0124151247b_zps1y1ogntn.jpg.html)

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/0124151248_zpsf6hzaww0.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/0124151248_zpsf6hzaww0.jpg.html)

Things went quiet for a few hours as we wrestled the k-member and engine into the car. With my car, its always 10lbs of **** into a 5lb bag. Everything eventually went in. I had a moment where I thought something was wrong with the clutch fork/pull-out bearing but thankfully I was just dreaming.

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/20150124_124713_zpsuuwfogzl.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/20150124_124713_zpsuuwfogzl.jpg.html)

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/20150124_124725_zps1i6mghor.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/20150124_124725_zps1i6mghor.jpg.html)

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/20150124_124738_zps01codzkx.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/20150124_124738_zps01codzkx.jpg.html)

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/20150124_134245_zpsgmhvvf0r.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/20150124_134245_zpsgmhvvf0r.jpg.html)

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/20150124_164502_zpsndflhcty.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/20150124_164502_zpsndflhcty.jpg.html)

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/20150124_164510_zpsthvrvk7y.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/20150124_164510_zpsthvrvk7y.jpg.html)

We were approaching 5PM (started at 8:30AM) and we had a few options. Stop here with much of the major items done, or rally and push towards a potential first start. We decided to keep going....

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/0124151950_zpsk0sqohtw.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/0124151950_zpsk0sqohtw.jpg.html)

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/0124151950a_zpscnsfvgjv.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/0124151950a_zpscnsfvgjv.jpg.html)

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/0124151950c_zpscbsaqjtm.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/0124151950c_zpscbsaqjtm.jpg.html)

We got literally everything in and connected. I turned the key for power and everything lit up. Unfortunately, Matt and Adam caught a fuel leak where the regulator goes into the back of the rail. They tried to give it a quick kiss with a wrench but the issue didn't go away. We assume it is a bum o-ring but rather than pull off the rails and attempt a quick fix, this is something better addressed with a clear head. It was now 8:30PM so we called it a night.

Since it was cold, dark and getting late, I decided to get the car towed the next day (Sunday - Today). We got some breakfast, strolled over to the shop and called to have it towed home. The car is now back in the garage and I will tinker with the fuel leak issue likely next weekend or sometime this week.

Overall, I can't believe how much got done in the weekend. I can't wait to get this thing fired to hear that whistle. :mrgreen:8-)

[V]

Awesome work!

[greenformula92]

That's a lot of work in a day. Looks like your well on your way

[Blackbirdws6]

Awesome work!

That's a lot of work in a day. Looks like your well on your way

Thanks guys!

So so this happened today....

VD9MlXwk7NA


Removed the rails from the car and took apart the regulator. I replaced the diaphram, all the o-rings and bolted everything back up. No leaks. The diaphram didn't look bad at all but there were a couple barely finger tight fasteners so I think that was the issue.

I only let the car run for a few minutes since I will eventually need to bleed the cooling system and the tuner needs to tweak my idle AFR. Everything out of the exhaust was water vapor from condensation. Not a bit of oil. Sooooo damn excited.

[Blackbirdws6]

Better audio in this vid (GoPro).

1jhU-Nb4NPY

[The Fixer]

Very nice!!! Sounds evil as hell!

[V]

You should check the serpentine belt, sounds a bit squeaky



lol

[Blackbirdws6]

Very nice!!! Sounds evil as hell!

Thanks! Its been a good day.

You should check the serpentine belt, sounds a bit squeaky



lol

I will have to get that looked at for sure. Wonder if I should take it to the dealer ;).

[Blackbirdws6]

Busy day yesterday. I was only planning on building headlights but decided to get a few things done on the car.

I replaced the O2 sensors and wideband sensor. I've passed quite a bit of oil past the old sensors so a fresh set made sense. The MightMouse PCV can is hooked up. Factory PCV port gets connected to the inlet of the can. Outlet has a check valve which goes to the intake port below the throttle body. Passenger valve cover just gets a oil fill cap (no breather) and drivers side gets the breather. Hopefully it works as well as they say it should.

Got the car up to temp and AFR is looking good now. Coolant system took forever to bleed and I think needs a little more.

Now these roads need to clear up so I can take it for a ride!

[greenformula92]

I've been saying the same thing about the roads. I just want to get out and drive mine without getting salt all over it

[Blackbirdws6]

So I think I def need to play the lottery. The bird laid down 777rwhp yesterday while attending a dyno day. I was the 7th car to dyno. Peak boost was right about 17lbs with a 7.65 crank pulley, 3.7 blower pulley. AND today is my 7th wedding anniversary.....

[greenformula92]

Impressive man. Yeah you def need to play the lottery

[IROCZman15]

wow man, 777rwhp is insane! that is awesome. worth all the build headaches?!? id say so

[Blackbirdws6]

Impressive man. Yeah you def need to play the lottery

Thanks. I played the lottery on the 7th but unfortunately I'm still working. Maybe next time!

wow man, 777rwhp is insane! that is awesome. worth all the build headaches?!? id say so

Thanks. Hopefully it does a good number at the track to back up the dyno queen status. If the honeymoon period lasts with this build, it will be worth it.

[Blackbirdws6]

Figured it would be a good time for an update. After the car was tuned on the dyno and fun was had at the LTxTech dyno day, I took the car for its first maiden voyage. The top was down, sun shining and everything sounded great. I decided to downshift to fourth on the highway and give her a good WOT hit. AFR looked great, she pulled really hard and I had a big smile on my face. I took the next exit so I could head the other way towards home. There is a nice on ramp to get on the highway so this time I figured I would see how she feels in third. I rolled into the throttle and man did she rip. I went for a quick shift into 4th and it wasn't going into gear (grinding badly). I tried for a different gear and wasn't getting it to go in anywhere. I pulled over to the side of the road. The trans didn't want to go into any of the gears but after a few minutes, I could finally select all of the gears. I started her up and got it home but the trans was hurt.

Upshifting through the gears felt OK except for the 3-4. It now grinds every time at any speed. It will go into 4th but would again, grind every time. I was also not able to downshift to 2nd or to 4th at any speed. I thought perhaps maybe my clutch hydraulics were not allowing the clutch to disengage properly. I had a new, USA made slave on the shelf so I decided to put that in even though I was confident the clutch was disengaging properly (pedal feel was very good and engagement occurs in the upper part of the pedal travel). I took it for another ride and same issue. I also was hearing some not so fun noises here and there too so I decided to just take it back home.

Mind you this trans is a Level 3 tick unit so I was a bit surprised this issue occurred. I called them up and they really didn't have an idea what the issue could be. They were also not looking to do me any favors with a rebuild either. I get their position but it prompted me to look elsewhere. I contacted Hanlon Motorsports located in eastern PA not far from Pottstown for his input. He had a bit more to say but like anything else, it needs to come apart to determine what's wrong. I drove the trans to him and his comments were as follows.

- Input and mainshaft bearings were shot which put the brunt of the issue on the blocker rings causing them to fail.
- 1st, 2nd, and 3rd gear didn't look wonderful.
- Countershaft cluster didn't look good
- Generally all of the gears in the front of the trans showed a lot of wear associated with heat.

The heat in the front of the trans was likely due to fluid running to the back of the trans during hard acceleration. So the rebuild was started and we replaced all of the questionable/bad parts with new OEM. Getting these was a big challenge as Tremec is not producing a lot of parts at the moment. Many parts are backordered, etc. Through our efforts, we were able to track down all of the parts in a rather timely fashion. Aftermarket parts are out there and available however none of the folks I spoke with are comfortable using any of them for a performance build.

To avoid the heat issue and keep the trans happy, Hanlon installed a fitting in the front of the trans to feed fluid to the front end. They sell a pump, cooler and filter setup to make this all work nicely. I will need to figure out placement, plumbing and wiring. The benefits are obviously keeping fluid on the front end of the trans but it also will avoid foaming of the fluid maintaining its protection abilities.

I got the trans back this week and it is back in the car. There are a number of items I need to button up and I will need to figure out the placement of the fluid pump setup. My plan is to engage the pump off of my Hobbs switch which controls the 2nd fuel pump. No need to run the pump when I'm just driving around normally. I will take pics of the setup.

I also bought new wheels/tires for the car 2 days before the trans had the issue. I will debut those items when all is well with the car.

[Pampered-Z]

Good luck.

I'm starting to have issue with missing the 2-3 shift, I think it's time for a reuild as well. Keep us posted how the trans works.

What updates are done to the trans?

[Blackbirdws6]

Good luck.

I'm starting to have issue with missing the 2-3 shift, I think it's time for a reuild as well. Keep us posted how the trans works.

What updates are done to the trans?

Thanks! I was missing the 2-3 at the last rental with the car and thought it was due to me just botching the shift. In speaking with Hanlon, he asked if I had trouble hitting 2-3 quickly. I confirmed and he wasn't surprised. The blocker rings were shot and synchos had some good wear which explains why I couldn't hit the shift quickly. Normal or generally spirited driving was fine. Or....maybe I really can't drive and this made me feel better. :rofl:

Internal upgrades really aren't much since there isn't anything available without essentially stepping up to magnum internals which is a involved conversion likely costing $5k+. The mainshaft is a viper size unit, bigger this and that. We replaced all worn parts with new OEM since the aftermarket hard parts are questionable. The pump should really help to keep everything in good shape. Hopefully it lasts.

[Blackbirdws6]

For those not in the Bounce House, here is an update on the car. The rebuilt trans is back in the car and the fluid pump system has been installed. I'm pretty happy with how it all turned out based on the available room under the car. Better yet, nothing leaked after doing all the AN lines. Unfortunately, my back/sciatic nerve is acting up big time so I'm not very mobile at the moment. Matt, Adam and my Dad have been helping big time with all the upgrades (nothing unusual right?).

Yes, the lines are crossing each other but it couldn't be helped since the pump in/out can't be reversed.
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/0703151636a_zpsk6octhvj.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/0703151636a_zpsk6octhvj.jpg.html)

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/0703151635a_zps7rlxm3eu.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/0703151635a_zps7rlxm3eu.jpg.html)

Jiffy Tite quick disconnect fitting. When you disconnect the line, fluid will not come out. Another is placed on the line going to the fluid filter.
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/0703151641b_zpsyytrnuw1.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/0703151641b_zpsyytrnuw1.jpg.html)

Wiring still needs to be tidied up.
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/0703151640a_zpstry8acie.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/0703151640a_zpstry8acie.jpg.html)

[LTb1ow]

Who put that ugly blue tape on the can there???

Geez, 1 star work.

[Blackbirdws6]

Who put that ugly blue tape on the can there???

Geez, 1 star work.

Some guy who likes blue things....:bertstare:. It will be coming off next time I'm down there. :)

[sweetbmxrider]

Shorten your hose clamp. Its like a zip tie no one cut.

[Blackbirdws6]

Shorten your hose clamp. Its like a zip tie no one cut.

Thanks.... I will get right on that.

[V]

Shorten your hose clamp. Its like a zip tie no one cut.

I saw that too, reminded me of my pool filter plumbing setup

[Blackbirdws6]

So busy night but very successful. Adam came up and did work this evening! She started right up and sounded awesome!!! I really missed that sound. I have a few items to button up but otherwise she is ready to be back on the road. I need to clean her up but below is a quick teaser shot.

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/0708152016b_zps0vv1dbaf.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/0708152016b_zps0vv1dbaf.jpg.html)

[Paul Huryk]

Sweet!

I have the editor from GM EFI coming to NJ in the new few months and I told him about your car - he wants to do a feature on it.




So busy night but very successful. Adam came up and did work this evening! She started right up and sounded awesome!!! I really missed that sound. I have a few items to button up but otherwise she is ready to be back on the road. I need to clean her up but below is a quick teaser shot.

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/0708152016b_zps0vv1dbaf.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/The%20Rebuild/0708152016b_zps0vv1dbaf.jpg.html)

[Blackbirdws6]

Sweet!

I have the editor from GM EFI coming to NJ in the new few months and I told him about your car - he wants to do a feature on it.

Thanks for the heads up and mentioning my car to him. I have been chatting with Rick as well. I told him once I got everything squared away, we would find a suitable time to get the feature done.

[Blackbirdws6]

Quick update on the car. It's been running great so I decided to start changing small things here and there since the big stuff is working well.

Small stuff: New HU Mount with LED TA lettering, window switch for trans fluid pump
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/New%20Mods/1004151431_zpsqdykpljo.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/New%20Mods/1004151431_zpsqdykpljo.jpg.html)
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/New%20Mods/1004151659_zps61kx4elc.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/New%20Mods/1004151659_zps61kx4elc.jpg.html)
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/New%20Mods/1004151658a_zps9gvjt7in.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/New%20Mods/1004151658a_zps9gvjt7in.jpg.html)

The bigger update is new charge piping from the F1A to the intercooler, intercooler to the engine bay. After hearing and seeing some real nice work coming out of 16W Fabworks, I decided to drop the car off and get the work done.

For those not aware, I originally had the Procharger twin 3.5" intercooler setup. The bypass valve was mounted in the engine bay which was not ideal. The whole setup was functional but the little intercoolers get taxed pretty heavily in higher power applications. I installed the FMIC and cobbled together new charge piping from a Ebay aluminum pipe kit. Again, this was functional but there was too much silicone, clamps, etc.

If anyone knows me, leaving my TA anywhere is normally cause for a Valium and alcohol binge. Below are pics of the resulting work. The car was well taken care of and everything looks great. The entire system is now aluminum so there is some nice weight savings here. The bypass was moved before the intercooler and there is a v-band clamp as the pipe enters the engine bay. The bottom aluminum pipe weighs less than a pound without the bypass (bypass weighs more than the whole damn pipe). The area right by the procharger was done in the pie cut fashion since ground clearance needed to be maintained. A mandrel bend would have put it pretty close to the ground. Anthony also whipped up a quick/nice catch can mount to replace my chintzy setup that was functional..... but nothing I would show off. I'm very happy with everything and the drive home was uneventful. I actually think throttle response has improved as well.


http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/New%20Mods/FB_IMG_1445639315586_zpsdgnv2vbt.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/New%20Mods/FB_IMG_1445639315586_zpsdgnv2vbt.jpg.html)
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/New%20Mods/FB_IMG_1445639293995_zpstyj5fzfl.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/New%20Mods/FB_IMG_1445639293995_zpstyj5fzfl.jpg.html)
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/New%20Mods/FB_IMG_1445639287795_zps3algw7fx.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/New%20Mods/FB_IMG_1445639287795_zps3algw7fx.jpg.html)
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/New%20Mods/FB_IMG_1445639281310_zpsjnd31q6s.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/New%20Mods/FB_IMG_1445639281310_zpsjnd31q6s.jpg.html)
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/New%20Mods/FB_IMG_1445639275120_zpscsnnhbq8.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/New%20Mods/FB_IMG_1445639275120_zpscsnnhbq8.jpg.html)
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/New%20Mods/FB_IMG_1445639266650_zpsjd8rzeqz.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/New%20Mods/FB_IMG_1445639266650_zpsjd8rzeqz.jpg.html)
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/New%20Mods/FB_IMG_1445639309037_zpsfbnkprye.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/New%20Mods/FB_IMG_1445639309037_zpsfbnkprye.jpg.html)
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/New%20Mods/FB_IMG_1445639300995_zps2o4ocngu.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/New%20Mods/FB_IMG_1445639300995_zps2o4ocngu.jpg.html)

[LS1ow]

any plans to install a speed warning at 70mph?

[Blackbirdws6]

any plans to install a speed warning at 70mph?

You meant 170 right?

[ar0ck]

Incredible, his work is definitely welding porn.

[Blackbirdws6]

Well the saga continues and it's been a while since I posted any upgrades for the car. The changes have been pretty minimal but setting a new best last year reignited my interest to go further down the rabbit hole.

Clutch Hydraulics:
At the last Racewars, my trans/clutch were requiring more deliberate operation to avoid missing a gear. The issue got worse as the day went on and the car also become harder and harder to get into reverse. Towards the end of the day, I just made sure all I had to do was go forward which was effective. Getting home and putting the car in the garage was a different story. I decided to try the simplest thing first which involved swapping the clutch fluid. The fluid looked clean and was bled prior to the rental but let's just try it anyway. After doing that, getting into gear went much much easier. The slave is pretty new so my only thinking is the wilwood master included with the original McLeod clutch may just be tired. My thinking is the seal for the master is leaking slightly and when the fluid gets hot, the fluid gets past the seal easier resulting in a clutch that doesn't fully release.

A new Wilwood clutch master seal may be tough to find and honestly, I prefer the piece of mind of a new unit. I purchased a Tick clutch master and new slave to replace the hydraulics completely. These will hopefully be installed in the coming weeks in prep for the Slipstream event in the Poconos on April 21st.

Braking:
Last year I slapped on Hawk HP+ pads up front and HP 5.0s in the rear which definitely improving stopping performance but still didn't give me the confidence I wanted to haul down this overweight missile. I've been talking about upgrading the brakes for a while and finally pulled the trigger in a more serious way. The bummer is I knew this would necessitate new drag front runners since the 15's wouldn't clear any setup I had interest in purchasing. After debating different brake setups (C5, GM brembo from Camaro/V/etc, Kore3, etc), I came across a new kit from Sam Strano featuring Wilwood calipers, stainless lines, bracket, and Stop-Tech rotors. Reading through Brembo conversions from other GM cars, some require you to have the center of the rotor machined to fit the hub, shims, spacers, etc. Pads will also be cheaper although knowing how many miles I put on the car and how I use it, this isn't real benefit to me. I do like the 6 piston setups from the V2 cars but in addition to the drag wheel clearance challenges, braking hard with skinnies up front would not be ideal.

Last night I was able to put in a bit of time on the car so on to a few pics. The hub was a little bit of a bitch to remove but she eventually gave way with a bigger hammer. The lower caliper bracket mount needed to be lopped off to make way for the new UMI bracket. A Pal got me a nice cutoff tool which worked really well. Mid way into cutting I stopped to check progress thinking I'm around a quarter of the way through only to find it was almost completely chopped off lol.

Don't worry....the hub oxidation will be cleaned.

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/IMG_20180314_200320_zpswzduarsd.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/IMG_20180314_200320_zpswzduarsd.jpg.html)
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/IMG_20180314_211152_zpszammolcr.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/IMG_20180314_211152_zpszammolcr.jpg.html)
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/IMG_20180314_211822_1_zpsdsbpfsoz.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/IMG_20180314_211822_1_zpsdsbpfsoz.jpg.html)
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/IMG_20180314_212635_zpsvuchql4h.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/IMG_20180314_212635_zpsvuchql4h.jpg.html)
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/IMG_20180314_214148_zpsivpe01wm.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/IMG_20180314_214148_zpsivpe01wm.jpg.html)
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/IMG_20180314_214200_zpsadnvbc7d.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/IMG_20180314_214200_zpsadnvbc7d.jpg.html)

[sweetbmxrider]

Full on committed now! To bigger brakes, that is...

[Blackbirdws6]

Full on committed now! To bigger brakes, that is...

Yep. Once I lopped off the bottom mount I said "Well, no turning back now....".

[wretched73]

Did you order the parachute yet?

[Blackbirdws6]

Did you order the parachute yet?

Car is too slow for a chute :)

[LS1ow]

Yep. Once I lopped off the bottom mount I said "Well, no turning back now....".

upset you didnt say "Oh chute, no turning back now"

[Blackbirdws6]

upset you didnt say "Oh chute, no turning back now"

Now I'm upset with myself. Creativity is all but gone man.

[Blackbirdws6]

Well I planned on finishing the one side of the car this evening but looks like I received the wrong rotors. I got everything mounted and realized when tossing in the pads that the rotor need another inch or so to make the edge of the pad.

Annoying but I can shift to the other side of the car to get everything ready once I get the new rotors here.

[Blackbirdws6]

Something seems off LOL

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/IMG_20180315_215236_690_zpsek9raxiy.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/IMG_20180315_215236_690_zpsek9raxiy.jpg.html)
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/IMG_20180315_210104_1_zpseplrxknp.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/IMG_20180315_210104_1_zpseplrxknp.jpg.html)
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/IMG_20180315_210043_zpszdlhda5v.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/IMG_20180315_210043_zpszdlhda5v.jpg.html)

[BonzoHansen]

air gap is important

[sweetbmxrider]

Its the new expand under heat design!

[Blackbirdws6]

To my surprise, the proper rotors arrived yesterday. After some St. Patrick day shenanigans yesterday, I decided to work that off this morning and get to work.

The new rotors obviously fit much better. After torqueing everything to spec, I test fit the new 17" Weld drag front runners. They cleared the new brakes beautifully just as all the measurements suggested. I grabbed a set of 17" WS6 wheels and those will need a spacer to work.

Next up is to bleed the brakes and start working on the other items. I'll try to get the skinnies tires mounted sometime this week.

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/IMG_20180318_091029_zpsbbus1os9.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/IMG_20180318_091029_zpsbbus1os9.jpg.html)
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/IMG_20180318_091142_zpsw8rbnh2j.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/IMG_20180318_091142_zpsw8rbnh2j.jpg.html)
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/IMG_20180318_091122_zpsakbgsxp5.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/IMG_20180318_091122_zpsakbgsxp5.jpg.html)
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/IMG_20180318_091102_zps7asym1bw.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/IMG_20180318_091102_zps7asym1bw.jpg.html)

[The_Bishop]

Those are sharp looking. What's diameter vs. the stockers?

[Blackbirdws6]

Those are sharp looking. What's diameter vs. the stockers?

Thanks! 2.3" larger than stock LT1, 1" larger than LS.

[The_Bishop]

That should definitely help with the 'Whoa' after the 'Go.'

[Blackbirdws6]

Well just a quick (maybe) update on where I am with the car. I was able to make the Slipstream event at Pocono last weekend but I didn't have a good day.

On my intended last run, I went for a 3-4 shift and the car decided to shake itself sideways at about 100+. I thankfully recovered but noticed two things. 1) My trans doesn't seem to want to go into any gear and 2) my steering wheel is no longer straight.

I eventually was able to get the car into 6th and cruise off the track. At slower speeds, the car needed a nice throttle blip to slide into a gear and if I tried to put it into 2nd, it would pop out unless I held it there. Reverse is a two hand job. Thankfully I was able to get the car onto the trailer.

Later I thought about what could have happened to cause the issue. I was very confident I didn't miss a shift so the only thought (among other things wrong) is I have a bent shift fork. The trans probably locked itself up which caused the massive wheel hop. I'm sure at this point too the synchros are trashed as well.

As for the crooked steering wheel, that was caused by a bent rear lower control arm relocation bracket. That appears to be the only thing wrong with the rear suspension so that's not terrible. It's a good thing every component has been upgraded as I'd hate to think how much worse it could have been should something have completely let go.

So for now, I'm debating on what I want to do. The car will stay a manual but the upgrade to a stronger trans (T56 Magnum/Tranzilla) is a very expensive proposition. Rebuilding the trans seems like a waste of a couple grand to deal with this again in a couple years. Unfortunately going T56 magnum requires going to a new clutch, slave setup so the cost keeps climbing.

So while I understand this is a first world problem, the car is going to sit for a little bit until I'm confident in the next step.

At least she looked kinda pretty..... (thanks for the pic Mike)

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/IMG_20180425_094629_561_zpsubhrro79.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/IMG_20180425_094629_561_zpsubhrro79.jpg.html)
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w170/bmdeluca/The%20Bird/IMG_20180421_181832_871_zpsir4mmjek.jpg (http://s176.photobucket.com/user/bmdeluca/media/The%20Bird/IMG_20180421_181832_871_zpsir4mmjek.jpg.html)

[wretched73]

Time to upgrade to a Lenco or a Jerico!

[Jersey Mike]

Should've let dad drive.

[Blackbirdws6]

Time to upgrade to a Lenco or a Jerico!

Nope!

Should've let dad drive my car.

Fixed that for you.

[wretched73]

Nope!


But why not? Probably be cheaper, and I don't think those magnums are rated for the HP you're putting down anyway

[DirtyBird]

Tranzilla t56

[sweetbmxrider]

Wait, you did this with the top down? So awesome!

[edpontiac91]

Glad you pulled through that experience. When you watch those STREET OUTLAWS on Velocity, once you start sliding, it's usually the guard rails that modify your ENTIRE CAR:rofl:. You might be coming to a point when you have to decide whether to have a VERY SHARP street car, or a VERY SAFE RACE CAR. I lost my FORMULA going around some tight corners and once it started sliding left and right, ONLY a guard rail finally made it stop. Your story sounds like fresh underwear:shock: was needed after that trip. Plus, NO INSURANCE is going to cover what you lose at a RACE TRACK, so it may become a HUGE TOTAL LOSS.

Maybe going to an automatic trans might be a choice, but I think the way you walked away this incident, might make you look at just how LUCKY you were!:oops:

[MDSheds_SS]

Get one of those 27 speed transmissions from Harry’s speed shop. Put it on Dom’s tab and pay it off by working at his shop. We need to get you back out there racing.

[Featherburner]

Plus, NO INSURANCE is going to cover what you lose at a RACE TRACK, so it may become a HUGE TOTAL LOSS.Not true. Track day insurance policies can be purchased.

[LTb1ow]

Built 80e with a GV OD behind it.

You would still have all the gears.

[Blackbirdws6]

Tranzilla t56

Seems to be that or T56 magnum.

Wait, you did this with the top down? So awesome!

I did the last run. I was trying to simulate my experience on 287


Glad you pulled through that experience. When you watch those STREET OUTLAWS on Velocity, once you start sliding, it's usually the guard rails that modify your ENTIRE CAR:rofl:. You might be coming to a point when you have to decide whether to have a VERY SHARP street car, or a VERY SAFE RACE CAR. I lost my FORMULA going around some tight corners and once it started sliding left and right, ONLY a guard rail finally made it stop. Your story sounds like fresh underwear:shock: was needed after that trip. Plus, NO INSURANCE is going to cover what you lose at a RACE TRACK, so it may become a HUGE TOTAL LOSS.

Maybe going to an automatic trans might be a choice, but I think the way you walked away this incident, might make you look at just how LUCKY you were!:oops:

The car makes enough power that anything can happen whether it be an auto or manual. As mentioned, track day insurance can be purchased or in some cases, the car just happened to hit a really big white painted deer. They just come out of nowhere....

Get one of those 27 speed transmissions from Harry’s speed shop. Put it on Dom’s tab and pay it off by working at his shop. We need to get you back out there racing.

I hear Hector is going to be running spoon engines too.

Built 80e with a GV OD behind it.

You would still have all the gears.

Nah, I hear those things don't like a good trans brake launch.

[ThoR294]

damn.

maybe try to source a used transzilla/magnum t56 to lower the costs?

[Blackbirdws6]

But why not? Probably be cheaper, and I don't think those magnums are rated for the HP you're putting down anyway

The cheapest route that would work is a faceplated, refreshed T56 however, I am not interested in a clunky albeit functional transmission. This car is a street car and plays race car only a couple times a year. Sacrificing driveability for cheaper durability is just not worth it to me.

There are companies that further fortify the T56 magnum to supposedly handle 900-1200rwhp so that would work plus give me some room.

damn.

maybe try to source a used transzilla/magnum t56 to lower the costs?

The reduced cost would be marginal and I'd prefer the piece of mind of a new unit. This is not a question of if I want to spend the money but when.

[IROCZman15]

wow! that sounds like it could have been way worse. glad you were able to get it on hte trailer and home at least. I agree, you should keep that car with a manual trans. T56 magnum would be the route to go, but as you mentioned it will be expensive $$$

[The_Bishop]

Maybe give Bob Hanlon a call? He's in PA and might have some ideas.

[Blackbirdws6]

wow! that sounds like it could have been way worse. glad you were able to get it on hte trailer and home at least. I agree, you should keep that car with a manual trans. T56 magnum would be the route to go, but as you mentioned it will be expensive $$$

The situation sounds more scary than it actually was at the time. Thinking back, I guess it could have gone much worse. I give credit to my prior "hooning" years to catch the sideways shennanigans.

Maybe give Bob Hanlon a call? He's in PA and might have some ideas.

I sent him an email to see what his thoughts were. Not in a rush for an answer but I'm pinging a few companies for their recommendation.

[TaKid455]

Brian

PM me/ call, I can setup with a T56 that will end all your issues.

[Blackbirdws6]

Brian

PM me/ call, I can setup with a T56 that will end all your issues.

PM sent.

http://knowyourmeme.com/photos/1125174-rwby

[Blackbirdws6]

So it looks like a Tranzilla may be in my future. The idea is going with a LS-style version with a new bellhousing/clutch/slave so if an epic partout occurs or my LTx days are over, there will be a future for the driveline.

[LS1ow]

epic partout occurs or my LTx days are over, there will be a future for the driveline.

bruh.

[Blackbirdws6]

bruh.

Not being dramatic. If something happens to the car and it doesn't make sense to rebuild, better to have a LS based parts for resale vs LT. If my engine gives up the ghost big time and minimal is salvageable, it only makes sense to go LS.

[WildBillyT]

Not being dramatic. If something happens to the car and it doesn't make sense to rebuild, better to have a LS based parts for resale vs LT. If my engine gives up the ghost big time and minimal is salvageable, it only makes sense to go LS.

:nod:

Might run in to some parts scarcity things as well (over time).