It's Time To Start Building A Hot Rod

PAGE 5

After the sub frame is in the car be sure you install all new parts in it.I mean all new parts, ball joints,tie rod ends, idle arm, crossbar and all the bushings. Also at this time overhaul the power steering box. I found the best place to get the kit is at NAPA auto parts .If you used after market weld in front end parts they will all be new. The price of the systems will have a lot to do with what system you use. You will also have to install a late model rear end if you are going to have 300 HP or less. You can use the springs that came with the car as long as they are good. If you use the old springs make sure to install all new bushing in the springs shackles. If you are going to have more then 300 HP you will need to replace the springs and the shackles. At this time remove all brackets and other things on the frame you will not need. Now is the time to sand blast the frame rear end and all front end parts. Then primer and paint them and put them together. Be sure at this time to put all new parts in the rear end all bearing, seals and at this time replace all fuel and brake lines. Replace the front hub bearing and seals, all brake parts front and rear cylinder pads and shoes. Now you need to fit the engine and transmission to the frame. I used just the block and pan of a 350 Chev. because I did not have a trans core.So I went ahead and purchased a 700R4 transmission from GM one of their crate units. I made the trans crossmember out of 2 inch square tubing and fitted the engine and transmission to the frame.Now before you  go have a drive shaft made take a tape measure and check around because I found that a 1970 Chevelle was just the right size. So a couple of new u- joints and I was done. Now it is time to start fitting the body and all the other body parts. PS there is three differant ways to hook up a torque converter clutch without using a computer. I will not list them now but if you need help just email me.

It Took me Almost a Month to Put it Together Just to Find Out What Was  Missing and to Take Measurements.

This is when you stand back and look and relieze your 38 years at GM was going to come in handy.

I Was Real Lucky The Floorboards Did Not Have A Lot Of Rust on Them And Took Very Little Work. ( 6 or so hours )

After I repaired all the floor boards I took sheets of fiber glass and rosin and coated the floor boards. It not only cut down on the heat and noise but water could not get to the metal  and rust it all over again.