As Legend Says, the Phoenix Shall Arise from the Ashes

[Jersey Mike]

As most of you know, the Trans Am took a fatal hit last weekend. (http://www.njfboa.org/forums/showthread.php?t=59679)

It sucks, but I'm blessed with, first, myself & my girlfriend's health, and second, a great community of car-enthusiast who have stepped up in a big way for me since the incident.

**...I owe a lot of thanks to you guys; Text messages, visits, tear down help, roller acquisition, and part support. I'm proud to call a lot of you guys my friends. **

You see, Erica was an organ donor. And as surgery is in her future, I - regrettably - have to impose on you guys one more time. Right after the accident, someone told me, "The death of one is the birth of another." Well, I've acquired a V6 Firebird to replace the T/A with. But, I need help...

What: Drivetrain swap from TA into V6 'Bird.
Why: Cold beer and food (BBQ? Pizza, Subs?)
When: Saturday, April 28th.
Where: Oakland, NJ 07436
How: By the grace of God. And a lot o NJFBOA hands on deck.
Who: Bueller...? Bueller?


Here's a brief list of people I know will be there already, but I'd like to piggy-back off the other thread, and find out who's in to come lend a hand and turn some wrenches during this shet-show.


Headcount:

Jersey Mike
MyFirstZ
ZuuhlsTA
Ls1ow
LT1_8u
Creeper
.
.
.
.



Please post here if you can come by on Saturday to help. It's 2 k-members that need to be dropped (I'll have two cherry-pickers), and 1 that needs to be re-installed. Hence, a large turnout would be amazing.

Thanks for getting this far down.

http://desmond.imageshack.us/Himg835/scaled.php?server=835&filename=unclesamlt.jpg&res=landing

[LTb1ow]

Will there be air available for air tools,and or, will there be tools. Finally, will there be tequilla?

[Jersey Mike]

I don't have a compressor.

I'll have tools, but it probably wouldn't hurt to bring your own small box of basics.

Tequila can be arranged.




*edit*
I thought I put this in the Lounge? Mod move?

[LTb1ow]

Lounge is lame.

[Blackbirdws6]

Depending on how this week goes, I may be able to re-certify my ARP wedding band.

[sweetbmxrider]

Can I just steal both cars and do it myself down here?

[MyFirstZ]

Mike I just realized I cant come till after work but Il be there

[L695speed]

I just heard about the wreck, glad to hear you're alright. I may be down to help. I have Friday nights off (I help run papers for the Herald up here in Sussex County) so I should be able to get over there and lend a hand. As long as I get back to be able to do Sunday's paper (though my friend will run it solo without me if he needs to). Would be good to meet some new people and say hello to some older faces I met at some point or another. People have offered to help me if they could and if I set something up. Might as well return the favor to others as its the right thing to do.

Question though, is the trans an auto to auto swap, auto to stick stick to auto or what?

I have a few things that may be of use since you say you don't have a compressor.

[LTb1ow]

I can bring my compressor if Adam wants to bring a gun.

And another vote for towing the two dead birds to Pal Perf LLC.

[townsend]

if you get miller light ill bring my expert fat kid in skinny spaces self and help out. need practice for my motor swap

[zuuhlsT/A]

You know I'm in. Might drop off "Ruby" the donor car tomorrow. Hope the trans holds together......

[zuuhlsT/A]

I gotta compressor if you need it with a 3/8" air ratchet and 1/2" gun . Got Dewalt Electric 1/2" gun also

[LS1ow]

u forgot to put james on the list.

[BigAls87Z28]

At this point, I have not a ****ing clue what my Saturday looks like, but I probably won't be around till later.

[qwikz28]

If it spills over into next week, I'll be there. Got a big final Monday. Perhaps I'll stop by for an hour or two on my way to my buddies place, though.

Are any tools needed? I have a cheap pancake compressor and a Craftsman Corded impact wrench, among other things. Jack stands?

[shadowfire]

hey mike i dont know if you would be interested but...http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/1997-PontiacTrans-AM-Ram-Air-6spd-60k-W-W-/180866035994?pt=US_Cars_Trucks&hash=item2a1c74b11a#ht_16371wt_1162.

[greenformula92]

hmm this is a fairly straight forward swap. if it gets started early enough you might be running come saturday night lol

[creeper]

I have work at 3:30 so I'll swing by in the morning

[L695speed]

hmm this is a fairly straight forward swap. if it gets started early enough you might be running come saturday night lol

Wiring harness issues in there? Otherwise I bet you're right.

Edit, realized could just unplug at the firewall. And would swap the computer too. (Price of not thinking straight when sick....)
So disregard. Easily done in a day with enough people. Depends more on how much we mess around.

[coolmanvette75]

Yea I should be arround Saturday morning/afternoon for teardown shenz

[Phoenixfire1989]

sorry to hear mike =(

[donnj]

hey Mike, me and Jeff will be there bright and early, provided we dont have to work

[Jersey Mike]

Thanks for all the support, guys! Don, it's a shame you never got to see the "finished" product with your wheels on them :( (Two of them are trashed).



Since this is a '00 to a '95 swap, pretty much everything will be swapped over (drivetrain, PCM, fuel tank, brake lines, gauge cluster, AC, everything to clone my '00).

I'm compiling a list of tools, to make sure I'm not shorthanded come swap time. If you guys can add to this list, that would be great:
Strut Tower Brace -- (Do not have)
Metric socket set -- (How many sets?)
3/8" & 1/2" ratchets -- (How many sets?)
Breaker bars
Torch
PB Blaster
2 - Dollies
Jack (How many?)
8x Jackstands
Fuel Line Disconnect tool
1/2" DeWalt Electric Impact
Vise Grips, Channel Locks, and Assorted Pliers
Assorted screwdrivers
Torx bits?
5 Gallon Buckets for fluids (How many? 2?)
Swivels?
Assorted Extensions
2x Cherry Pickers & Chains
Pry bars

[V]

I have no idea what my Saturday plans are, but I shall try to show up.

We are all just glad you and the gf are doing good.

Also, I have a bunch of parts so if you need something in a pinch, I'll see what I can help with.

[sweetbmxrider]

Its 3/8ths and 5/16ths fuel line disconnect tools. PB Blaster everything every day. Sawzall might come in handy and/or cutoff wheel. Standard and metric wrenches would be nice, I assume you just forgot to mention them. Flare wrenches in assorted sizes both metric and standard for brake and a/c lines. Some pick tools for disconnecting electrical connectors. Zip ties for all teh things. 1/4" socket set would be nice for interior shens. I dono if kohler goes and swings down here first, will load up all teh things.

[Jersey Mike]

Paul, I'm gonna shoot you a call during my lunch break.


*edit*
Thanks, Adam.
I'll make sure I still have my fuel line tools when I get home tonight. I'll start the PB treatment tomorrow morning, when I'm off & will be starting my own tear down of the V6s interior & the dashes on both cars. Sawzall & cutoff wheel I have, just gotta find my blades. Worst case, I'll go out & buy new ones. Flare wrenches, I have a standard metric set; not standard--Bring these, I would say. Zip ties, 100 pack enough? :lol: Pic tools, no tengo, but perhaps I can borrow from a buddy, or someone can bring with. What interior shens do you speak of?

[sweetbmxrider]

Ripping the dash the **** out.

[L695speed]

Damn, my daily decided to act up. If I can get it back in line, I can bring the following (providing my brother doesn't need them to work on his Fiero)

2 half inch breaker bars
a 15 lb 5 foot pipe (we use it as a breaker bar as it fits perfect over several ratchets and breaker bars, haven't found something that it couldn't break loose yet)
4 ft pry bar
a couple jackstands
Torx sockets, english allen sockets
3/8, 1/2, 1/4, socket sets all are fairly complete english and metric, with universals and adapters, but some might be buried in my project.......
Naturally box wrenches, screwdrivers
Got a hand sledge

Well you get the idea. May want to watch the weather too, if its going to pour rain, might not be a great idea.

[LS1ow]

ill bring the bangarang

[wretched73]

If this wasnt finals week i'd love to come and help break stuff :(

[shadowfire]

http://www.racingjunk.com/Chevrolet/2559016/98-camaro-z28-roller-trade-malibu.html

[shadowfire]

i was trying to find this all day for you mike.....

[Jersey Mike]

Thanks, Shadow, but I got a V6 that I will be swapping my T/A stuff into already.
As a matter of fact, I've already begun stripping the interior down.

Me, V, LS1ow, & MyFirstZ will be trying to get a few more small things done on the cars tomorrow.

Both dashes are coming out tomorrow. Probably try to swap fuel tanks and maybe remove front clips as well.

[Jersey Mike]

Progress:
Both interiors completely bare.
Both dashes & harness removed today.
Shifter and E-Brakes removed.
ABS & Brake booster removed
AC depressurized
Front clip of both cars completely off.
TA Door & harness swapped over to the V6 car.
Front bumper, side skirt, and driver's fender sent off for repair, courtesy of Paul (V).


Damage Report:
K-member, steering rack, tie-rod, Chris1313 Ram Air & lower air box are all destroyed and need to be fixed.
Crack in oil pan.
Two large rust holes found in floor board. Will be cutting and re-welding, courtesy of TA floorboards.

Acquisitions:
Rear bumper, replacement dash, K-member, steering rack & tie-rod, all courtesy of Paul, (V).





Will be getting wheels/tires demounted this week, to salvage the Tire Pressure Monitoring Sensors. For Sale threads made. Wings & beer fell from the heavens.

[sweetbmxrider]

Pics would make this thread the least bit interesting

[Jersey Mike]

That's were you come in!

[LS1ow]

Progress:
Both interiors completely bare.
Both dashes & harness removed today.
Shifter and E-Brakes removed.
ABS & Brake booster removed
AC depressurized
Front clip of both cars completely off.
TA Door & harness swapped over to the V6 car.
Front bumper, side skirt, and driver's fender sent off for repair, courtesy of Paul (V).


Damage Report:
K-member, steering rack, tie-rod, Chris1313 Ram Air & lower air box are all destroyed and need to be fixed.
Crack in oil pan.
Two large rust holes found in floor board. Will be cutting and re-welding, courtesy of TA floorboards.

Acquisitions:
Rear bumper, replacement dash, K-member, steering rack & tie-rod, all courtesy of Paul, (V).





Will be getting wheels/tires demounted this week, to salvage the Tire Pressure Monitoring Sensors. For Sale threads made. Wings & beer fell from the heavens.

send me pic of the "lower air box" you need. do you mean the factory plastic piece ? if so i got it.

[Jersey Mike]

Correct. This guy:

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7176/6929954853_18e51903fb_b.jpg


Bring tonight? Bribe with Skrillex?

[LS1ow]

will bring. may be a lil late bc i need to pick up some wheels for SJ Turbomasta

[L695speed]

Sorry Mike, but I'll be thrashing on my own daily driver this weekend. The rack and pinion is failing. I ordered parts to get that back on the road, but working on that means I'm out on giving you a hand. I also had to get tires as the right front blistered and was at the cords. I guess it decided to play jealous and wanted me to give it attention as opposed to the Trans Am. However, if you guys don't finish and need to setup another day to finish the job, I'll join you then, providing the thrash on my own car goes well.

[Jersey Mike]

No sweat, Chris. I think we should have enough hands on deck for Saturday.



V6 accessories and harness were removed and most of the K-member bolts are already off, with the exception of 2, and the trans mounts. The V6 is about ready to drop out, I think. If I can get it out before Saturday, I plan to prep & paint the engine bay black.

Also found two big holes in the floorboard, where rust ate away at the floor. Will hopefully be doing some cutting & welding to resolve that.


Ls1ow dropped off a lower air box, and said he can make me a new ram air intake, identical to that of my (now destroyed) Chris1313ra intake.

Special thanks to Ls1ow & MyFirstZ for their help today!

[MyFirstZ]

I have a feeling that rust is from a Ttop leak and sitting so beware when its all done.

[LS1ow]

http://img.westfalia.net/media/show_image.php?datei_id=64965&max_x=300&max_y=300

[donnj]

Mike, let me know if you want to do the floors on Saturday, we can bring the mig with gas and the plasma, what time Saturday? the earlier the better. Passed by your house on Tuesday afternoon with a big dump truck nobody was home

[Jersey Mike]

Don, I'm thinking 10am.

[MyFirstZ]

So who is coming ? Trying to get an idea of what to expect

[MyFirstZ]

http://img.westfalia.net/media/show_image.php?datei_id=64965&max_x=300&max_y=300

These were called for again

[coolmanvette75]

Dont think I am as I'm really trying not to have to drive an hour with no hatch. Lmao

[Jersey Mike]

I got confirmations from LT1_8U (Jim), MyFirstZ (Anthony), LS1ow (Mickey), DonNJ (Don), V (Paul), and ZuuhlsT/A (Kurt).

Try to be here at 10 please, guys. The motor of the V6 is already out. I have a cherry picker and an air compressor. Bring sockets, swivels, extensions, JACKS, Jackstands, strut tower brace, dollys, screwdrivers and torx bits.

See you all tomorrow!


LTs1ow and SweetBMXrider, if you guys can make it up tomorrow it would be tremendous.

[L695speed]

Mike I'm definitely out, starting to tear down the daily revealed more issues. Bearings on the way out and ball joints need to be done. I may as well just rebuild the whole front end.

Hope it all goes well for you tomorrow. I see you're half done as the V6 is out. Good luck guys.

[sweetbmxrider]

Pics?

[greenformula92]

I was thinking the same thing

[MyFirstZ]

One picture. Kinda worked straight to lunch then it fell apart

[LS1ow]

One picture. Kinda worked straight to lunch then it fell apart

Cervesas !

[Jersey Mike]

Lesson learned, don't feed them.



The build continues.

[Lt1_8U]

we working tomorrow!?

[sweetbmxrider]

Your updates suck eggs.

[LS1ow]

no pics... even thou the topic of "noone is takin pictures" was talk about threw the whole day.


i only got to use the hedge clippers 1 time today... :(

[MyFirstZ]

We did see the use of a leaf blower though

[sweetbmxrider]

You guys are teh lame.

[MyFirstZ]

Both cars are motorless and completely gutted.

The v6 which is getting the ls1 got an engine bay cleaning and a rattle cant paint job, engine got some cosmetic work

Otherwise we are waiting on the k member before it goes into its new home.

Once the motor and trans are back in just gonna be a ton of little tedious ****. Slowly but surely.

Today we took our time taking the ls1 out making sure nothing wad getting cut or snagged so there wouldn't be any issues. Along with dropping the rear.

[LS1ow]

and there was deer

[sweetbmxrider]

So who's the unfortunate soul that has to pick up the k member?

[Jersey Mike]

With my new work schedule, the rest of this build is going to be challenging

[sweetbmxrider]

I feel this k is going to switch quite a few hands unless sir beggerz makes a trip down for reasons unknown.

[Jersey Mike]

I'm going to have to make a ride down myself anyway, as I have to stop in East Brunswick to get the hatch from XRelapse13 as well. It's just a matter of "when" and getting a vehicle big enough for both. Then, I gotta locate an oil pan.

[xrelapse13]

If you're redoing the floors get rid of that F**king hump lol

[Jersey Mike]

If you feel like doing the cutting & welding, then have it! :lol:


A lot of stuff in the engine bay was polished up before this happened, but now that I've got the motor out, I've taken polishing to an almost OCD level. Engine bay should be looking a little nicer when it's all said & done [knock on wood]. Nothing the average person will notice, but a little of little things.

I can honestly say that most everyone I've gotten to know from NJFBOA has had, or will have, a hand in this rebuild, in one way or another.
Sent my filler panel off to get polished by someone who has the nicest paint I've ever seen on a T/A; BLS.
I'm going to have a make a huge "Thank You" post later on, to acknowledge everyone for their altruism; Maybe even get one of those large posters/summary sheets printed to display at car shows with the car.

I can't wait for this thing to be done.

[sweetbmxrider]

Some men, are on the uppers. Oh look, here comes some downers.

[coolmanvette75]

Wish we coulda dropped that pan yesterday. I think if we had another set of hands it would have been a lot easier

[sweetbmxrider]

Not sure if trolling, or is somehow a several man job....

[Mike]

Do you already have a k lined up?

[Jersey Mike]

Yeah, Mike. I got a stock K from SJ Sleeper. It was delivered to Adam, from there I went & picked it up--while delivering a set of wheels to Adam, which I received from Ls1ow, who got them from ZuuhlsT/A, to ultimately end up in SJ Sleeper's hands. Did you catch all that? :lol:

In short, yeah, I have a new K.
Picked up a can of POR15 today before work (Who knew that **** was $35 bucks for a small can!?) And will be applying that to the floors when I get home. Creeper will be welding the new floors in for me this evening.

I'm going to have to hoist the engine up somehow this week, to get the pan out. Since the motor is out of the car, I'm thinking of just buying some bolts or something and fastening the chain to the holes on the front and rear of the heads, then hoisting it up with the picker. No other way that I can think of that's easier that that.


Anyone know if the LH8 pan will have any clearance issues on a stock LS1 K-member?

[LS1ow]

Anyone know if the LH8 pan will have any clearance issues on a stock LS1 K-member?

only if 7

[WildBillyT]

Yeah, Mike. I got a stock K from SJ Sleeper. It was delivered to Adam, from there I went & picked it up--while delivering a set of wheels to Adam, which I received from Ls1ow, who got them from ZuuhlsT/A, to ultimately end up in SJ Sleeper's hands. Did you catch all that? :lol:

In short, yeah, I have a new K.
Picked up a can of POR15 today before work (Who knew that **** was $35 bucks for a small can!?) And will be applying that to the floors when I get home. Creeper will be welding the new floors in for me this evening.

I'm going to have to hoist the engine up somehow this week, to get the pan out. Since the motor is out of the car, I'm thinking of just buying some bolts or something and fastening the chain to the holes on the front and rear of the heads, then hoisting it up with the picker. No other way that I can think of that's easier that that.


Anyone know if the LH8 pan will have any clearance issues on a stock LS1 K-member?

Mike, make sure there's "tooth" on the floors for the POR to grab on to. Or use Metal-Ready. Otherwise you may be better off with Rustoleum.

[Jersey Mike]

Bill,
I'm going to apply it right over the rust. There isn't much smooth or clean surface there. I did see the Rustoleum can, which was significantly cheaper, but I think I'll be alright with the POR15.

Just 30 more minutes til I get out of here and head on over to the house. Hopefully the weather holds for us.




Beggs,
I'm charging you 1 rear lca for that comment.

[WildBillyT]

Cool. Just wanted to be sure you aren't using it on clean or mildly surface rusted metal.

[Featherburner]

Bill,
I'm going to apply it right over the rust. There isn't much smooth or clean surface there. I did see the Rustoleum can, which was significantly cheaper, but I think I'll be alright with the POR15.

Just 30 more minutes til I get out of here and head on over to the house. Hopefully the weather holds for us.




Beggs,
I'm charging you 1 rear lca for that comment.Just make sure you wire brush the loose rust. You should be good!

[Jersey Mike]

Rained out. Probably for the best. I'm burnt out.

Thanks for the tip about the wire brush.

[zalewski]

does anyone need me to bring the bangarang to the party ?

[Jersey Mike]

NO! NO! NO! NO! NO NO!

This can't be possible.

[sweetbmxrider]

Strong first post, 5 stars, have some green.

[Blackbirdws6]

So a part was dropped off at my residence. No note or instructions. Guess I will just polish it and sell it.

[LS1ow]

does anyone need me to bring the bangarang to the party ?

YES.

NO! NO! NO! NO! NO NO!

This can't be possible.

YES

Strong first post, 5 stars, have some green.

adam, you and james have met a few times.

prepare to watch the world burn

[coolmanvette75]

Beggs is that who I think it is?

[sweetbmxrider]

adam, you and james have met a few times.

prepare to watch the world burn

For some reason, I figured it was him.

[LTb1ow]

Bump for updates
http://c438342.r42.cf2.rackcdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/riseofthefenix.jpg

[MyFirstZ]

The new firebird is completely stripped except for there rear and tank

-firebird engine bay was painted and drilled for wire tuck
-floor boards waiting to be welded
-oil pan is coming off tongiht to be welded
-heads were put back on a few nights ago
-fuel tank/lines have to be swapped
-brakes lines need to be swapped
-need to swap everythign from old kmember onto the new one along with new p/s rack


still a long way from home but slowly getting there. Not as much time to work on it as we would like (doesn't help we were putting in my springs and shocks where we were supposed to be doing the heads and pan)

[Jersey Mike]

Dang, Anthony. I wasn't going to tell him anything until I got that Walboro :lol:


I've been taking a few random pictures here to document the whole rebuild. Tonight might be the last night that we can work on it until next week--The weather and my work schedule never seem to coordinate.

[t0rtur3d]

I would come help, I am stuck at work till 9. I will be around monday if you are going ot keep working on it, I can lend a hand after I pick up my roommates car.

[t0rtur3d]

I have half a gallon of bed liner and some rust removal gel, if you need them I can bring them with me

[Jersey Mike]

Thanks, but at this point, the 2-3 of us is plenty for the remainder of the project. I initially wanted 6-million people there because I was hoping to have the drivetrain swapped in one day in order to avoid overlapping into this 6-week-stint (May 29-June 10) that I won't have any off days. But the damage is done now, and myself and some locals are casually wrenching on it in the evenings as the weather allows, and things are going smoothly.

The oil pan was pulled off yesterday evening and dropped off at LS1ow's house for welding. His father is an experienced welder, with many more friends in the trade, and said it wouldn't be a problem to seal the small crack in it, and that I can have it back in a few days! I guess the apple fell pretty far from the tree in this case, because Ls1ow's father is the freakin' MAN! :lol:


I've been playing with some engine-bay clean-up ideas during this time, as well. Nothing drastic, just some subtle things here & there to make the engine bay a little less "busy." The car, as a whole, isn't going to come out of this as a monster, any means, but it will have a few "while I'm at it" upgrades.

I intend to make a real build thread in the Member's Section when this is all over.

[zuuhlsT/A]

Updates??

[MyFirstZ]

Haven't been able to lend a hand this week. Last things were

-motor was 100% ready to go back in /w rack and brake lines
-fuel tank needed to be swapped
-fuel lines I think as well
-the new rear after the tank swap

Mike will update more

[Jersey Mike]

Will have more free time on my hand effective this weekend. The craziness of work and life will officially die down after this Satuday. I'm hoping to start working on it this Sunday, after Fathers Day morning responsibilities.

Latest Updates:
Headers were sandblasted & repainted (special thanks to LT1_8U).
Motor was re-assembled.
Front brake lines, sensors, and power steering stuff done.
Floors were patched and sealed, then POR15'd.
New rear was acquired and POR15'd.
Spindles, K-Member and Control Arms were POR15'd and assembled. (Special thanks to SJ Sleeper)
Spindles and shocks assembled & mounted.
Fluids purchased.

What's left is:
Figure out alternator situation
Swap fuel tanks & lines
Acquire new AC dryer
Belts.
Re-install motor/trans/K-member
Assemble lines & accessories
Fill fluids and bleed brakes.
Torque suspension bolts.
Re-Install Interior
Start sanding body panels.
Purchase paint and materials.
Find someone that can spray it.
Save up for new wheels.
Be done by 2017.

[V]

What's left is:
Figure out alternator situation
Swap fuel tanks & lines
Acquire new AC dryer
Belts.
Re-install motor/trans/K-member
Assemble lines & accessories
Fill fluids and bleed brakes.
Torque suspension bolts.
Re-Install Interior
Start sanding body panels.
Purchase paint and materials.
Find someone that can spray it.
Save up for new wheels.
Be done by 2017.


You forgot "Install front end body panels... rear bumper... hatch..."

[Jersey Mike]

After paint. Less masking off if they're off the car.

[creeper]

-pull vacuum and charge ac
-buy Keith a wideband so he can tune his own car and then yours

[Jersey Mike]

Another Update:


The North Jersey guys came over again this weekend and we made another push. The motor, trans, and K-member are back in the car. Headers are installed and look great. We didn't install the intake manifold, as 1 coolant crossover tube gasket was missing & had to be ordered. Gasket/Seal was delivered today, and I'll be putting the intake back on & start making harness connections this week after work.

One thing I did overlook, that MyFirstZ and V realized, was that the transmission cross-member off of my LS1 car could not be reused on this '95 car. I'm in the process of acquiring a new one now.

I replaced the alternator with a new one, there was a nice crack in it--likely from the accident. The alternator never gave me any issues, but while the motor was out, we noticed that the pulley wasn't spinning freely. So, a new one was ordered and installed.

V saw that the tires were facing opposite directions. Too much for a tie-rod adjustment to correct. Theory is that the steering arm on the spindle may be bent, which sounds plausible as the driver's side tie rod, rack, wheel, and alternator all saw damage. It's something I'll look into more after this week.

There's still so much left to go back in the car though :(
Fuel tanks, steering shaft, AC, radiator, gauges, trans xmember, ABS module, coolant tank, brake booster, master cylinder, shifter, torque arm, connect hoses/lines, tighten down power steering lines.


Big thanks to MyFirstZ, V, and even LS1ow (who came by only to eat breakfast sandwiches and pose for pictures) for coming by and helping out.

[WSex]

any suspension you need donated?
rear suspension

[Jersey Mike]

Thanks, man. I appreciate that, but I already re-purchased a set of LCAs and PHB, and I *think* I can reuse my rear Konis and LCA relocation brackets.

[MyFirstZ]

Slowly but surely

He does need one fuel injector clip that holds the injector to the rail. Not the harness clip.

[grazi]

Slowly but surely

He does need one fuel injector clip that holds the injector to the rail. Not the harness clip.

I should have a bunch of these laying around if you guys still need a couple....

[MyFirstZ]

He needs one before we forget about them and the rail blows off the injector

[grazi]

Let me look through my bag-O-tricks. I'll get back to you guys when I find them.

[Featherburner]

ttiwwp

[NastyEllEssWon]

He needs one before we forget about them and the rail blows off the injector



i should have a small bag of them laying around lemme check

http://speedcap.net/img/f6a1e119fe00a05e82c9072f7655cf4e/e1931e17.png

let me know where to send it and its on its way free of charge.

[MyFirstZ]

no no not that, appreciate the gesture though

its a metal tap that holds the injector to the rail.

not the harness clip, or the connector. Il snap a picture off my car of what we need later

[V]

http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d50/SmokingSS/10cab229.jpg

[MyFirstZ]

Yeah those !

[Jersey Mike]

I had no idea either. Looks like I have an actual crew working on this project!

[WSex]

id like to put in some community hours if possible.

[NastyEllEssWon]

no no not that, appreciate the gesture though

its a metal tap that holds the injector to the rail.

not the harness clip, or the connector. Il snap a picture off my car of what we need later



ah alright, i misread what you said, which is why i posted a pic. no problem, more for me :D

[Jersey Mike]

Nasty-
I appreciate it. Thanks for looking.


WSSex-
Whether we need help or not, you're welcome to come by and shoot the ****. Unfortunately, there's plenty left :lol: After all the small stuff is wrapped up, it's on to body work. That's an area that I have *zero* experience in.

Stay tuned folks :lol:

[WSex]

WSSex-
Whether we need help or not, you're welcome to come by and shoot the ****. Unfortunately, there's plenty left :lol: After all the small stuff is wrapped up, it's on to body work. That's an area that I have *zero* experience in.

Stay tuned folks :lol:

yeahhh i dont know anything about bodywork but will throw in manual labor into sanding paint away.
ill bring some beers, let me know of the next meeting.

[t0rtur3d]

Let me know as well, especially if another gathering is on a sunday or monday. Those days are usually free for me

[WSex]

still interested in helping out

[sweetbmxrider]

still interested in helping out

x2!

[L695speed]

Thanks, man. I appreciate that, but I already re-purchased a set of LCAs and PHB, and I *think* I can reuse my rear Konis and LCA relocation brackets.

I'd think you would be able to, all 4th gen and for the most part 3rd gen rear suspensions are compatible. Unless I missed something. Where are you guys at now? I bought Matt's GTA and am thrashing on that to get it back on the street lol. I can see if I can make it to a meetup to help you out if I can, just lost track of what you guys have left to do other than bodywork.

I just found your update post on the previous page, I've been saving this stuff in case I got a 4th gen, then realized I will probably get one with a manual in the first place so its pointless. I do have a T56 trans crossmember from a 1997 Z28 if you haven't got one yet. Can try it.

[Jersey Mike]

Thanks, guys. Nothing to update yet, and nothing planned either.

Got to wait to hear back from V about the injector clips (http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d50/SmokingSS/10cab229.jpg) and the spare LT1 4L60E cross-member. Hopefully we'll be on track after the holiday.

I'll let everyone know if another Pow-Wow is in the works. Currently, I'm having difficulty finding free time :(

[LS1ow]

this thing done yet ?

[Blackbirdws6]

Filler panel is done so I don't know what the hold up on the rest is....

[Jersey Mike]

Waiting on a few things from Paul/V to become available (cross member & fuel clip). New job has long hours and long commute. Short on motivation & energy. /Excuses

Will try to make progress this weekend.

[LTb1ow]

I could prob, could also droid it

Edit: 1.5hr drive from me

[t0rtur3d]

We getting together this weekend?

[t0rtur3d]

knock on the door, rev the engines honk the horns. or all of the above??

[t0rtur3d]

No, crash through his living room.


Challenge accepted!!!

[sweetbmxrider]

I could send smoke signals when I arrive :shrug:

[Anti_Rice_Guy]

Occupy Jersey Mike's house, bring tents.

[WildBillyT]

X_DVS_303kQ

I am assuming that Mike does not want to end up being starved in an abandoned well to be turned into a skin suit, so I deleted his address. Please PM him with questions regarding that.

[grazi]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j3aYZSAyEuM

[Jersey Mike]

Grazi,
Do you have one of these? The two local parts stores weren't able to find them for me...

http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d50/SmokingSS/10cab229.jpg

[grazi]

http://www.ebay.com/itm/ACDelco-17112633-2x-Fuel-Injector-Retainer-Clips-/221065108589?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item337881dc6d&vxp=mtr

^These are the ones that i had. I actually looked and cant find them anymore but after seeing the pic of what you need, it wouldnt help anyway.I guess the LS1and LT1 are different

[grazi]

Hey Mike,
What about these?
http://www.ebay.com/itm/LS2-LS3-L99-Camaro-Corvette-Fuel-Injector-Retainer-Clips-/360469954962?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item53edaf0192&vxp=mtr

[MyFirstZ]

Go to a GM dealer. Any of em. If you want Il see if the caddy or gm dealer on 17 have em or can get one tomorrow

Told you weeks ago they wouldn't have it.

[MyFirstZ]

http://ls1tech.com/forums/parts-classifieds/1560715-2000-black-ws6-ls1-m6-partout.html

[sweetbmxrider]

lame

[LS1ow]

I could prob, could also droid it

Edit: 1.5hr drive from me

from you to mikes ? your on drugs

[LS1ow]

http://ls1tech.com/forums/parts-classifieds/1560715-2000-black-ws6-ls1-m6-partout.html


saleen mustang wheels !

[MyFirstZ]

I posted it for the third brake light or anything else he may need

[Jersey Mike]

Yeah, I saw that. I actually already PM'd him about the clips, but Paul will be here tomorrow and is bringing it with him.


Until he gets his new trans, which has the cross-member I need, there isn't a whole lot of progress to be made.


Immediate agenda:
Fuel tanks & new rear
Master and brake booster
Correctly route/fasten engine harness & ground wires
ABS module and AC stuff
Coolant reservoir



Later:
Trans x-member, torque arm & driveshaft
Assemble rear brakes
Steering shaft & gauge cluster
Radiator & trans cooler
Relocate TCS
belts & fluids, shifter, headlights, steering arm, and tighten all suspension bolts.
Then interior & paint prep.


Maybe hold a pow-wow the weekend of the 21st? Ah!!

[WildBillyT]

So the phoenix is stuck in the TSA line?

[LTb1ow]

http://2damnfunny.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/I-Just-Needsta-Check-Insidja-Aysshoe-TSA-South-Park.png

[Jersey Mike]

http://degw.files.wordpress.com/2011/10/facebook_like_button_big.jpg

[grazi]

MIke,
http://www.ebay.com/itm/93-02-Pontiac-Trans-Am-Third-Brake-Light-Lens-Assembly-/380450270394?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item58949a6cba&vxp=mtr

[Anti_Rice_Guy]

Not sure if reading Al's build thread or Mike's. They seem the same.

[Jersey Mike]

Everybody's a comedian :rolleyes:



I haven't made an update in a while, so I may as well leave a little blurb here now. Big thanks to LTb1ow for coming through with a trans cross-member and, as an added bonus, a Walboro 255 pump to throw in the tank while the tank is already out.
The driver's seat had a tear in it, and was re-upholstered and look fantastic. no more bolster tears here!
Brain @ BLS took my old filler panel and polished it up. It now looks beautiful. I'm almost afraid to put it on the car. Thank you, Brian!
I picked up another stock ported throttle body. However, this one powder-coated black, to see how I like it versus my polished one.


As far as I can think, what's currently left is:

*Paint prep
*Find & order a rubber trans mount
*Route belt
*Attach AC Dryer
*Pedals
*Steering shaft & wheel


I really hope to fire her up soon. I never would have imagined I'd be so scarce of time, but I've had nearly no opportunities to work on the car. I don't think I have worked on it more than two days in the last 2-3 weeks, sadly. However, if fate permits, perhaps I can grease a few palms and get a couple of the North Jersey guys over here via empty promises of food & beverage. Having that presence of fellow car guys by your side is the recipe to making headway; I'm not sure if it''s motivation or guilt, but something always ends up getting done. Hey, who am I to break a system that works, right? :kneeslap:


This weekend?

[MyFirstZ]

Vacation, can't

[LTb1ow]

You can't run a damn rubber trans mount fugger

[Jersey Mike]

You can't run a damn rubber trans mount fugger

I know you want me to do poly motor mounts right now, but with the motor already back in the car, and no lift until the car is drive-able, I'm not going to touch the MMs.
Either I'll find a stock trans mount and call it a day, or I'll buy a poly trans mount and upgrade the motor mounts to poly in a few thousand miles. At the moment, I just want to get the car done and enjoy what's left of the summer.

[LTb1ow]

I have a lovely poly trans mount sitting in my garage.

[LTb1ow]

http://i924.photobucket.com/albums/ad86/lts1ow/photobucket-10966-1344901829208.jpg?t=1344901830

Look at that. Loook at it.

[sweetbmxrider]

Just do a poly trans mount for now.

[Jersey Mike]

So sayeth the reasonable man. I will. Was about to order one off of WS6Store, but decided I'm just going to break into LTb1ow's house and steal the one in the picture above. Then I can look at it all I want.

[Jersey Mike]

So, after consulting with a few people, I was certain that the dryer from LS1 car would mount right up to the [EVAP box?] of the '95 V6. However, now that we've neared the end of the build and have the motor & dash in, I found that the AC dryer won't reach the fitting coming off of the [EVAP box?], and upon comparing the old & new ones, they're clearly different.

Anyone know what the best way of going about swapping this is? Does the dash need to be pulled, or does it come out through the engine bay side of the firewall (please say engine bay side, :lol:).

I can't believe this is happening :facepalm: Oh, Mr. Murphy!

[MyFirstZ]

I think it may just be the evaporater and thermal expansion valve that are different. The entire assembly looked the same except for that. But either way I think we have to swap at least that.

[LTb1ow]

Has to come out through dash.

!AC you puss.

[Mike]

So sayeth the reasonable man. I will. Was about to order one off of WS6Store, but decided I'm just going to break into LTb1ow's house and steal the one in the picture above. Then I can look at it all I want.

you can get poly trans mount at local parts stores, usually in stock

[Jersey Mike]

Steering wheel and pedals are in, and the brake booster & master cylinder are torqued down.
Encountered a hiccup (what else is new?) with the TCS module and throttle cable. The cable seemed to have tension on it, and wouldn't allow the throttle body to fully close. Fed up, I decided to just ditch the TCS system all together. It was an easy decision to make, as the new rear I picked up is a 3-channel, versus the original 4-channel that came in the car & was damaged in the wreck. I had planned to swap 4-channel axles & backing plates onto this rear, but that's $150+ I can pocket now, I suppose. From what I was told, the ABS module I have will have to be swapped out for one out of a non-TCS equipped car--If this is true, then what a shame, as I spent more hours than I'd like to mention polishing the stock ABS block to a beautiful shine! :lol: Special thanks to Adam to coming in clutch with a part-number for a non-TCS throttle cable--$39 from my local parts store, which is a hint more expensive than I thought, but it cleans up the engine bay some, and more importantly: It's not broken :-P

Threw the new engine belt on and poured some Mobil1 in & spun a new filter on today before things went south... I had forgotten to install the new plugs while the motor was out of the car (...yeah) so I tackled that today. All went well, got the driver's side done & the wires on, then moved onto the passenger side. While doing cylinder 4, the plug fell out of the socket & disappeared down into the motor mount's clam-shell, I believe. After spending 45 minutes trying to find it, I admitted defeat & left it in there, threw a new plug into Cylinder 4 and called it a day right there :lol:

I'll tackle cylinder 6 & 8, as well as the shifter, AC, rear brakes, wipers, & driveshaft/TQ arm after the holiday. Right now, I need to get on road and go help the girlfriend move [furniture/clothes/entire life] into her new 2nd-floor apartment (Is there an emoticon for back pain?)

I think it may just be the evaporater and thermal expansion valve that are different. The entire assembly looked the same except for that. But either way I think we have to swap at least that.

Hopefully Tuesday.






Mike-
I through the beat-up stocker on for now, but Beggs has both a rubber one & a poly one that I will eventually snag. The local parts store didn't have one, actually, and the only thing they could find me was $90... Autozone & Advanced said they didn't carry one either. No big deal now, anyway, as the crossmember is up, and I have a local source the mount. Thank you, though.

[LTb1ow]

Yea you need a three channel ABS block, and most auto parts stores will have the mount in their "performance" aisle for SBC stuff. Its a universal mount.

[Blackbirdws6]

Why do I get the impression the maiden voyage is going to include a bunch of "non-essential" items missing from the car, a couple spare donuts mounted on different sides of the car and an open exhaust?

You should drive it down the street a couple times so you can collect all the parts that got lost during the build. Take pics.

[LTb1ow]

If you hurry, I can tow your POS car behind my truck with a big ass cable and you can make vroom noises.

[MyFirstZ]

I'm bringing a torch Tuesday to take out the monster in the ta

[Jersey Mike]

Why do I get the impression the maiden voyage is going to include a bunch of "non-essential" items missing from the car, a couple spare donuts mounted on different sides of the car and an open exhaust?

You should drive it down the street a couple times so you can collect all the parts that got lost during the build. Take pics.

Things will be different than before, yes.
Got rid of the traction control.
changed to 3.42 gears instead of 2.73s.
May not have the rear Konis on for the maiden voyage.
Sadly?, I have plenty of rim and tire sets to chose from :lol:.
I'll be attempting to make the AC work before the maiden voyage.
the radio and speakers won't be hooked up until I'm certain the mechanical details are completely worked out.
Paint won't be done for "maiden voyage."

As for open exhaust, depends if I can get a friend to do some welding for me before then or not... But having driven with open-headers before, the memory of the drone, resonance and overall displeasure are motivation enough to "get it done" before giving it any RPM.


If you hurry, I can tow your POS car behind my truck with a big ass cable and you can make vroom noises.

I don't know what you're saying.

I'm bringing a torch Tuesday to take out the monster in the ta

I'm not going in there.

[LTb1ow]

Can I have the 2.73 rear?

[LS1ow]

just sell it and buy a diesel

[Jersey Mike]

Can I have the 2.73 rear?

If you want to come get it, sure. No backing plates & missing one axle. Have fun.

[MyFirstZ]

The 2.73 wasn't the one in the wreck right ? talking about what came out the V6 ?

[V]

so whens the next build day?

[Jersey Mike]

The 2.73 wasn't the one in the wreck right ? talking about what came out the V6 ?

The 2.73 (That I'm referring to, anyway) was the one in the wreck.

I don't know what the gears in the V6 rear are, but that one may or may not go on the shell for scrap/roller purposes.

so whens the next build day?

Who knows. We should have a body-work day, though. Sandpaper for all!! :lol:

[WSex]

Who knows. We should have a body-work day, though. Sandpaper for all!! :lol:

Masks too?
if so countme in

[sweetbmxrider]

Masks too?
if so countme in

Same! :lol:

[LTb1ow]

Don't count me in, unless I can use sandblaster

[MyFirstZ]

Well I don't know who wanted the 2.73 from the qreck but they arent salvagable.
Bent axle tube, busted axle, probably a destroyed carrier. Its not worth its own weight

Count me in for prep work gotta learn somewhere

[zuuhlsT/A]

Any updates? Been a while.....

[WSex]

yeah i want to sand away

[Jersey Mike]

Burned it to the ground.


[/THREAD]

[zuuhlsT/A]

Whaaaaatttt?

[Jersey Mike]

Kidding, of course.

Things are nearing the end, though it feels like I've been saying that since this started.

The car runs. That's the good news.
Real life keeps me from giving it the attention it needs to be mobile however. That's the bad news.

Picked up some new parts to add to it. Nothing shiny, new rotors & pads, new fogs to replaced the old cracked one, a new driver's air bag, a pair of replacement LCAs, and some new rear isolators for a little extra drop without the harshness of the "heater-hose mod." Also picked up a LPP Xpipe with some bullets attached to it. Since it was only 25 bucks, and local to where I was going to be, I thought why not. However, it's missing a 35* (or 45*?) bend on the driver's side, as the owner couldn't find it last minute. I thought I'd throw that on there, just to see if I liked how the car sounded with an X pipe, instead of the Y-pipe set up that I had on there originally. Worst case, I swap back and eat the $25, I imagine. Just gotta source a bend. (Is my age showing?)

I've turned my focus on the brake lines now. Because my original car was a 4-channel optioned car, I'm encountering some speed bumps with this 3-channel rear that I bought. Swapped out for a non-TCS equipped throttle cable and bought a new 3-channel ABS block, and pulled the TCS light in the gauge cluster. However, upon fastening the lines to the ABS block, it became obvious that there was an issue.

As the experienced guys know, and have told me, the 4-channel cars have a designated brake line that runs from each corner to the ABS block, whereas the 3-channel cars are a little different--One line connects both rear brakes to the M.C.

Currently, I'm about to search for the right part, and get the proper 3-channel brake lines, as I've never so much as owned a flare tool, yet alone flared any brake lines before.


Thereafter, I think she should be able to make it to the end of the driveway under her own power.


Still got some fine-tuning to do. Exhaust hangs too low for my liking, that will need to be finalized. Miscellaneous small things like getting the wipers, cowl, impact foam, and washer fluid on. That stuff should be easy. Currently, I just want to make sure everything functions as it should and all safety related criteria are in place tightly properly.


That's my story for the night. I'll pick it up again tomorrow; there's always something small to do.

[zuuhlsT/A]

THX for the update. You kinda freaked me out with your response. I get the whole Pheonix thing but I was afraid you went one step over the line.

[donnj]

any updates on this project?

[MyFirstZ]

a few more parts came in I believe. all the correct brakes line pre-bent. Other than that I don't believe any other progress.

[donnj]

the plan is to finish this thing tomorrow, 8am at my house with the wood burning stove fired up and the phoenix up on the lift.:nod: we shall see.....

[MyFirstZ]

If I wasn't working tomorrow I would be there on the front line but..........Im working

[Jersey Mike]

There's still time to back out, Don! :lol:

Bring on the mancave!

[sweetbmxrider]

What a lame thread.

[Lt1_8U]

Lame. I just pulled a kmember engine and trans today mike! Common now get this bird going

[Jersey Mike]

Too much happened today and I don't much want to go into it, all I'm going to say is:



http://valleydealseekers.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/dawn.jpg

[Lt1_8U]

Oil went everywhere?

[MyFirstZ]

leaking

looks like there was some confusion with the swapping of oil pans and transferring parts/receiving parts

[V]

hmm maybe i actually will have my z28 done first after all

[Lt1_8U]

My nova better not be done before your car!

[donnj]

suspected problem area

[Jersey Mike]

Are there o-ring gaskets on the oil pan, separate from the large perimeter gasket?

[WSex]

rip bird. supposedly its still being pushed around according to mike at chapterhouse today.

[Jersey Mike]

The new guys is going on my ****-list... http://www.cadillacforums.com/forums/images/smilies/16suspect1.gif

[chrisfrom nj]

mike put it back together

[LTb1ow]

Race to see whose POS black hole car will make it to the Circus Ole meet?

[WSex]

Race to see whose POS black hole car will make it to the Circus Ole meet?

dont give him any ideas. he'll tow it there.

[Jersey Mike]

It's back together; Drives & stops on it's own power. Just don't trust it yet! Gotta go over it with a fine-tooth comb, change up some ABS stuff, investigate an oil leak at the pan (gasket? gah!), then send it off to be painted & throw an interior in it.

I will be making more time to work on it next weekend & in coming weekends, now that the weather is turning for the better.
Rumor has it, Donnj has mancave that needs a shortterm house guest :shifty: