Finally, some updates! Summer was too busy to get a lot of work done, but these things don't get done overnight! The Lark is back on all 4's again! Ladder bars are hooked up and the heavier springs are in on the 'new' frame! (Thanks Painekiller on the hookup!) The trunk floor is 90% welded in-I have to get some more steel and make a couple patch pieces for it. The engine is set in, but as expected(kinda), the engine mounts were welded in for a Chevy engine, and not a Buick-so I have to order new mounts. I picked up a 10 bolt round cover rear end out of another car and a 3.08 posi unit from another car-so the rear end can get done with tax money. I also scored a power front disc change over from a 71 El Camino the came in at work over the summer! Today I went an pulled the column,front bucket seats, center console and shifter out of a 69 GTO. I know, not all Buick parts, but still. All I need to grab for that is the shift cable. Just before I finished undercoating and setting the body down on the frame. Yes, that is a 455 w/400 trans hanging on the picker in the gravel driveway. And, yes, it goes uphill. And, no, no one came over. Yes, I got it in there with the help of a 10' 4x4. But, it does have to come back out so I can cut the frame pads off, and bolt the Buick ones in. I hoped they were right, but I should have measured to be sure. Of course, when I brought the engine and trans home, I only had 1 choice-put it in the car, or leave it lay in the drive way. So...I went with it. Toying with an aftermarket tach, but it might not stay. Thinking about all new autometers, but we'll see. I got a set of 16x8 Iroc wheels that I'm thinking of redo'ing to run on it, but IDK for sure. I also have the panels cut for the backing on the new door panels, but I'm not sure which direction I'll be going with them yet. The seats have to be recovered and re-foamed, of course. Still a long way to go, but I'm still under budget. Budget $5000. Cost so far $1500. Luckily, my boss is awesome! I picked up an Eaton M90 charger with the intention of using it, then I found out that 1 will not be enough. So I thought about a twin charger setup. After talking with a few people, I'm leaning towards a 6-71. We'll see how that goes though.
This whole project looks great I can't tell you haw inspirational it is to see the great work you accomplishing out side of a garage and no nice clean cement floor to work on. It give me hope as I'm in the same boat. Keep up the great work. Pete
decent car i have much restored worse note that your rear springs are upside down. i use por-15 on my frames and floors sticks and lasts longer then paint
Yep me too hell I'd be happy with a 12' X 20 concrete Pad I hate picking grass out of whats left of my hair. I can't believe you have to pull that motor back out? What motor was in there before? Pete
I used Chassis Saver, Made by Magnetic Paints. Its basically the same stuff as POR-15 just 40% cheaper. Sprays very easily. Ill be using on my Floors and Trunk pans as well. Can't go wrong with either product.
The frame was bought from another member who bought the car elsewhere. I'm thinking it was set up for a Chevy engine-the mounts are too low for the 455. A flat concrete pad would be awesome! Going to be moving soon to a 2 car...can't wait for that!
Looking good. Glad to see that your keeping to your budget with room to spare. That's not easy to do.
