'55 Chevy LT1/4L60E project

[Mike93]

Hello all, new member here:)

Little background, the car is a 1955 Chevy 210 that my father picked up a few years ago for his 55th birthday. I flew to my old home state of Minnesota for a surprise visit, and the next thing I know we bought this car and drove it 3 hours home in 0 degree weather...with no heat...and no defroster...and the floor vents stuck open, pumping ice cold air right on our feet. I've never been more cold in my life, we had to switch drivers every 30 minutes, but it made for a memorable story. Anyway, here's what the car looked like the next day when we got home:

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/1.jpg

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/3.jpg

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/2.jpg

Car info: 210 post model, former 6 cylinder car with manual trans. Somewhere along the way this was replaced with a 400 with a Rochester 4 barrel hooked up to a Turbo 350. Not fast, but not a slouch. Very thirsty, and very annoying about 60mph as it feels like it's topped out.

Frame and underside are solid and incredibly clean. Nice paintjob, color is up for debate but we intend to go with a two-tone later on.

First things we did were tune the car up with some plugs and wires, added some Bel Air quarter panel trim, lowered it, converted to power front brakes, and put on some new wheels. This is how the car was set up when my dad shipped it out to NY last November. I wish it sat as low as it does in the pic below...but that was from being strapped down on the hauler:(

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/4.jpg

Next batch of pics coming up: the donor car

[Mike93]

Donor car for the swap is a '94 Caprice 9C1 cop car. Basically, this has the drivetrain of the Impala SS, an LT1 rated at 260hp/330tq stock. The car belonged to my old roommate from college and the car had been sitting for the past 2 years in Cleveland.

Here it is when I got it home after a long day driving down to pick it up from the impound lot (long story)...

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/5.jpg

Rather than show all the boring pics of the car being stripped down to nothing, I'll get to the point...

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/6.jpg

The engine, in it's beat up glory. I ran it in the garage before pulling it to make sure all was well. Replaced the starter, added some fresh gas and it fired right up:

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/7.jpg

The 4L60E, reman unit with only a few thousand miles on it. I still have to cross reference the part number for the convertor, was told it's a step up from stock.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/9.jpg

If it isn't obvious what are reasoning behind this is, it's all about fuel injection, overdrive, and some more power than what the car came with. My dad is looking for a car he can comfortably cruise 3 hours away to the cabin with. I'm also going to try to get power steering and air conditioning into the '55 since the Caprice has the parts and bracketry to make this pretty easy.

[Mike93]

After the motor was out, I started bringing parts into our machine shop at work where I have access to a few bead blasters. This was about 3 weeks ago...

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/11.jpg

I also sprayed the block. It was pretty rusty so I scraped all the loose metal of, wire brushed as much **** as I could, then threw down some flat black engine paint. The idea is to have the block kindof fade away after all the top end and accessories go on.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/12.jpg

The whole time I've been working on this my dad has been asking for pictures of what I've been doing to his car...here's what I sent him:)

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/13.jpg

Being computer illiterate (to a point) he had to call my back t oask how to open the picture up properly, claimed it was "blurry". I led him on for a few minutes, then sent him the real one. I took apart what I could, such as fuel rail, alternator, throttle body (not shown)...and got some new gaskets for the oil pan, valve covers, intake manifold, etc. EGR delete plates are in the mail, and new headers will be ordered. As I mentioned above, EGR is being deleted as well as all smog equipment. I believe the computer will have to be sent out to be recalibrated.

All of the paint work was done with off-the-shelf paints from Advance Auto. Our paintbooth at work has a nice oven that I could bake everything in. A luxury budget paint job is there ever was such a thing...

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/14.jpg

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/15.jpg

[Mike93]

This past weekend my dad flew out here to help pull the old engine out and drop the new stuff in. The 400 ran a front mount engine mount, the LT1 runs side mounts. Eckler's Classic Chevy had the conversion kit which bolted right in, was very easy and a nice quality product.

http://www.classicchevy.com/Images/cci/18-02.jpg

http://www.classicchevy.com/product.asp?pf_id=18-02&dept_id=2208

While the engine bay was empty, I degreased and pressure washed it clean. Then, took a can of semi-flat black Rustoleum and sprayed the firewall and inner fenders. Total cost: $4.50...again, this is a budget build. We had originally intended to just drop everything in and drive on it until the new paint job comes, but for a few extra bucks and a few hours we decided to do a quick clean up. Hopefully it all holds up for another year or so...

Here's the engine/trans dropped in. Install was stupid simple.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/16.jpg

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/17.jpg

Quick shot of the motor mount:

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/18.jpg

...and pretty much where it sits today.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/19.jpg

...headers were ordered this morning...

http://i5.ebayimg.com/06/i/08/c2/b9/0c_1.JPG

[jeffs55]

Looking good Mike.
Your Dad is a lucky guy.

I had a similar ride home when I bought my 55 a couple years ago in December.
It was driving really good, a nice sunny December day, until the rear U-joint let go..:eek:..then it was 5 hours getting it replaced and back on the road. It had gotten dark by that time and colder.
While not as cold here as it is up there, like his car, the floor vents were open.
One of them would close most of the way, but the other one didn't even have a cable.
My wife and I had drove over to get it and at our first gas stop I dug around in her car and found a towel or something to put in front of the vent.
That helped a lot. We got home about 2 in the morning...

[carls 56]

very nice work mike:tu. what did you do when you were a kid , that dad doesn't know about. hehe:p

[Sweden]

Hi Mike.

That is some really nice work you are doing on your dads car.:tu

It will be a perfect car to cruise around in.:tu

[ETriggs]

Looks GREAT!!! The donor route is what I will do next time.

[chevman57]

That looks like it is going to be a great driver after the donor changeout is finished. You must really have a great Dad. And i bet he is proud of you too.
Terry

[hevad]

Nice Job! Nice Ride!:tu:tu :cool:

Dave

[hamsman]

:tu Lookin Good !

I have the same engine and tranny setup in my '56. Your going to like it !

.....the hamsman

[Mike93]

Thanks for the kind words fellas:)

:tu Lookin Good !

I have the same engine and tranny setup in my '56. Your going to like it !

.....the hamsman

Perfect! I'm sure I'll be talking with you more about how you went about your swap...I've already noticed a handful of tweaks that will have to be made, such as:D:

*throttle cable, how did you go about doing this??? I notice the Caprice cable is too long. I was planning on cutting it and splicing it into the '55 pivot arm
*Engine wire harness and any modifications you made. I've deleted the EGR and all smog equipment, as well as wiper motor and ABS.
*Air filter set up. How are you running yours???
*Still mass air???
*Air conditioning. Being that the bracket fits that holds the alternator, power steering pump, and AC compressor, are you running AC???
*Fuel lines going from the rail to the tank. How did you tackle this one?
*Radiator and cooling fans. Looks like the Caprice stuff is too big...

I'm sure I'll have much more, but I'm taking a quick break from work and this was what was on my mind.

Tonight, I will be removing the stock steering set up and cutting the mid mounts off the frame (unless someone knows of an easier method!) and there is a clearance issue with the headers, and the power rack and pinion kit is supposed to arrive Friday:tu

[hamsman]

:) Mike93, try this site....www.hotrodlane.cc....and click onto the link about LTi - LT4 engines. Lots of good info.

.....the hamsman

[J&Jhotrods]

Very nice car, Mike. What headers are those?

Jay

[Mike93]

Very nice car, Mike. What headers are those?

Jay

:(Picked them up on eBay...hopefully they hold up.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/CHEVY-STAINLESS-HEADERS-MONTE-MALIBU-CAMARO-CAPRICE-SBC_W0QQitemZ110250408968QQcmdZViewItem?hash=item1 10250408968&

[Mike93]

Tonight's progress...

Since I posted last I removed the engine/trans as I noticed a handful of clearance issues going on. Most notably was the frame mounts (aka mid mounts?), the headers were exiting right at them. SO....out came the sawzall. Each side took maybe 30 minutes. Notice, the steering box is gone too:)

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/IMG_0001.jpg

What part is this??? I'm thinking I'd like to remove it...

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/IMG_0002.jpg

Next, I moved inside to try to consolidate the wiring down.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/IMG_0007.jpg

I found that about half of the wires under the dash go absolutely nowhere:( After beginning to feel a little overwhelmed since I'm still learning this car, I decided to call it an early night.

[Rick_L]

*throttle cable, how did you go about doing this??? I notice the Caprice cable is too long. I was planning on cutting it and splicing it into the '55 pivot arm

The easy way is a Lokar throttle cable and pedal, looks nice too.

*Engine wire harness and any modifications you made. I've deleted the EGR and all smog equipment, as well as wiper motor and ABS.

You can strip all the unneeded wires out of the harness. You'll need to wire in fuses for the injectors, pcm, etc. Using the underhood fuse panel from a Camaro is the way I did it. I assume the Caprice engine has one too. A shop manual for your engine is valuable for figuring out what must be kept and what could go. On the smog equipment you either need to program them out of the pcm or wire in 1k resistors where the devices were to fool the computer into thinking they are there. Otherwise you'll get codes and the "check engine" light will be permanently on. You can get rid of the ABS, making that work would be a huge project. I went with the Raingear wiper setup which mounts the wiper motor in the passenger compartment. The stock wiper motor will work though.

*Air filter set up. How are you running yours???
*Still mass air???

Yes, I'm using mass air and running the air inlet off to the side.

*Air conditioning. Being that the bracket fits that holds the alternator, power steering pump, and AC compressor, are you running AC???

I used a Corvette accessory drive that relocates everything to the driver side, and the a/c compressor is up high on the Corvette setup.

*Fuel lines going from the rail to the tank. How did you tackle this one?

I'm going to run the fuel lines down the driver side of the frame since the fuel inlet and return are on the driver side of the engine. Russell sells some fittings that plug into the stock fuel lines, and have AN -6 male ends on the other.

*Radiator and cooling fans. Looks like the Caprice stuff is too big...

I'm using a Camaro fan setup and a PRC crossflow radiator. The fans will fit in the original radiator opening. Or you can run a SPAL dual 11" fan setup. It's functionally the same as the Camaro setup, only difference is the mounting, actually both are similar. On mine I widened the radiator mount saddle and turned the Camaro fans to horizontal, along with a custom PRC radiator.

[Mike93]

^Rick L, thanks for you reply...I took notes to what you did and checked out Lokar:)

Todays' update, a bunch of boxes showed up last Thursday, all from Eckler's Classic Chevy (I will update part numbers from home tonight, I'm at work now):

*Rack and pinion kit
*Ididit tilt steering column
*15" replica reproduction steering wheel
*New gas tank

Began with putting the rack and pinion in. The cross member bolted right into the stock steering box location on the driver side and the drag link location on the passenger side. Rack then bolted to the crossmember. I almost feel bad posting this up as a DIY since I'm pretty much just bolting in parts someone else developed...

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/power%20steerin/IMG_0012.jpg

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/power%20steerin/IMG_0013.jpg

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/power%20steerin/IMG_0014.jpg

And here's a few shot of the column and wheel mocked up...note the gap from the wheel to the column, I just snugged it to fit for now. I'm still undecided about whether or not I'll paint the column. I really like how it looks in it's virgin machined steel, but it clashes a bit with the chrome. The column has handles and knobs for the turn signal and tilt functions, however those haven't been installed yet.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/power%20steerin/IMG_0011.jpg

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/power%20steerin/IMG_0017.jpg

[57chevyfan]

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t264/50mercfan/IMG_0002.jpg

mike, thats the pivot for the "z" bar for the clutch linkage for a manual transmission. if you don't plan on putting a manual trans in in the future you can get rid of it.


i'm real curios about the rack and pinion steering install and your overall opinion of it. and those 3/4 length headers, fit and function. please post more pics as you progress.

[Mike93]

Steering crossmemeber: GREAT fit and finish.
Rack and pinion: looks to be a reman piece, fit was great as well. I still have to finish off the ends, possibly tonight...
Column: quality looks great, install has left me scratching my head as to how to anchor to the firewall area. The existing column had a bracket that bolted to the firewall. The Ididit column is 28" and will not engage this bracket. It seems like I'll have to achor it from inside the car.
Wheel: for nearly $400 I was expecting a little bit better quality, but maybe that is what is to be expected when dealing with a low production part??? Overall though, it looks very nice and the lower quality almost fits in with the '55 era parts.

Tonight I will be dropping the engine back in and will be able to report back how everything lines up:tu

[Crafty]

Securing the column to the firewall...

An old school way to do it is get an exhaust clamp like this:
http://www.americanpartsdepot.com/images/941%207804A.JPG

Grab the piece on the left of that picture, weld a couple of tabs on either end at 90 degrees to the holes, drill through these tabs.
Now put the U shaped piece around the column, put the clamp together and do up the nuts until it holds the column, now drill through the tabs you welded on (they should be flat to the floor), drill through the floor too and bolt the clamp through the floor.

This works well if yu have alot of carpet/sound deadening on the floor as you can hide the clamp under it all.

If you look around the hot rod part providers there are plenty of clamps available. I just looked at the ididit site and they have a few clamps available, see http://www.ididitinc.com/accessory_pages/floor_mounts.htm

note the "tri five" one is fairly similar to what I describe above, don't know how much that clamp costs but I bet you could piece one together cheaper, its only a stainless clamp and a piece of bent metal. The swivel mounts at the top of that page look nice but are not cheap :)

[Mike93]

Crafty, thanks for the reply. Looks like Eckler's has the part I need...53-104 Firewall bracket and clamp, $14.99...http://www.classicchevy.com/product.asp?pf%5Fid=53%2D104&dept%5Fid=1716

http://www.classicchevy.com/Images/cci/53-104.jpg

Last night's progress:

Engine/trans back in the car.
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/power%20steerin/IMG_0002-1.jpg

Passenger side header clearance.
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/power%20steerin/IMG_0003-1.jpg

Driver side header clearance (note steering shaft interference)
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/power%20steerin/IMG_0007-1.jpg

Where mid-length headers exit.
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/power%20steerin/IMG_0010-1.jpg

Had some issues with the steering rack and crossmember. Found that the oil pan has pretty much zero clearance to the crossmember, and one of the lines on the rack was hitting the pan as well. To remedy, I removed this line and bent it to now fit on the side of the rack, versus on top where it was. I then bolted it right back into the same spots.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/power%20steerin/IMG_0020.jpg

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/power%20steerin/IMG_0015-1.jpg

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/power%20steerin/IMG_0011-1.jpg

As shown above the steering shaft interferes with the headers...looks like I'll be ordering this part up: http://www.classicchevy.com/product.asp?pf%5Fid=53%2D317&dept%5Fid=1828

http://www.classicchevy.com/Images/cci/53-317.jpg

Also have some clearance issues with the transmission dipstick tube...not sure yet how I'll go about taking care of this, ideas?
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/power%20steerin/IMG_0006-1.jpg

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/power%20steerin/IMG_0005-1.jpg

[Crafty]

looks lile classic chevy resell the ididit column mount, I'm sur it will do the job fine.

As far as the dipstick goes, you could get a lokar one that have a flexible line, so it'd give you the ability to decide where it appears in the engine bay, look here:
http://lokar.com/product-descriptions/trans-dipsticks.htm

bolts on to the firewall like this: http://lokar.com/interior_pages/products/trans_dipsticks/images/transdipstick_fm_appl.jpg

It says that they are 24" long, so that should give you some idea if it will clear things or not. From the pictures you've posted it looks like it could come out just to the outside of the head andbolt to the firewall.

its looking good!

[Rick_L]

The Lokar dipstick tube thing is notorious for giving people fits when filling the transmission with fluid - it's REALLLLY slow because the hole you pour through is so small.

What I do for these cases is to cut and weld the tube to place it where it needs to go. If the tube is going to be shorter, measure it before and after you cut it. Then cut the same amount off the stick and re-mark it.

[hamsman]

:) Mike93, what type of radiator are you planning to install? Or have I missed that in all of the postings?

[Mike93]

:) Mike93, what type of radiator are you planning to install? Or have I missed that in all of the postings?

Not sure yet...that's kindof down the road when I resolve some of the issues above. I was thinking of something through Summit as they have pretty nice radiators for ~$200 that should do the job.

[hamsman]

Not sure yet...that's kindof down the road when I resolve some of the issues above. I was thinking of something through Summit as they have pretty nice radiators for ~$200 that should do the job.

:) Be sure when looking that its designed for a LT1 engine setup, as the cooling flow is not the same as other engines.

I had a downflow radiator for the LT1 and recently replaced it for a 'BeCool' aluminum crossflow just for the cosmetics, although the origional one worked fine. Both had/have a pull 16" fan.

.....the hamsman

[Rick_L]

The reverse cooling feature of the LT1 does not really affect what you do for a radiator, but the size and location of the radiator connections on the water pump does.

I had PRC/streetrodstuff.com build me a custom radiator. It has the 1-5/16" hose barbs that are the same size as the ones on the water pump. And it's similar to others that they sell for 55-57s except for this and a couple of other details. I bought the radiator from streetrodstuff.com when Dick Z. still owned the business, and he suggested that I put a 90º elbow on the radiator on the suction side (passenger side). This made getting a radiator hose for that side a snap because with that 90º elbow, the hose needed had only one 90º bend. This meant it was easy to get a hose from the auto supply that fit.

The other thing I had them do was add a fitting for the steam line on the suction side tank. And don't forget to tell them you want a drain port somewhere.

All this simplified my life just a little bit, and a cleaner installation to boot.

[Ronny's 55]

Very nice build and a nice car to start with. That really looks like the way to go. That will be a nice cruiser. Keep us posted on how it comes out finished. Like that ever happens with these cars. Keep up the good work.

[auggie56]

Thanks for sharing all this with us. This is the route I plan to go. Any problems using a 505 steering setup, instead of the rack ?

[Mike93]

A continued note of thanks to those of you who have replied with your feedback:tu

I moved onto the wire harness. In it's dirty, stock glory...

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/9C1/IMG_0002-3.jpg

Marked the plugs I wasn't going to be using; wiper motor, washer fluid, smog pump, egr, etc...then stripped the loom and removed the wires as far back as I could to minimize the bulk of the harness.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/9C1/IMG_0003-3.jpg

A few hours later, some tape, and new loom! Still have some more left to do like mount the computer and fuse box under the hood...in time:)

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/9C1/IMG_0002-4.jpg

[Crafty]

looking good mike!

[NogaroS4]

Thanks for taking the time to post progress pics! Lookin good!!

[Mike93]

Started moving on to getting the steering finished off, but ran into some questions in regards to the pump and hoses...more info here http://www.trifive.com/forums/showthread.php?p=111013#post111013

If anyone has any insight please let me know!!!

[Mike93]

Wow, it's been a while since I've updated the thread!

Since last post I've made progress here and there. I resolved the dilemma with the steering above. I am running the Caprice pump and a pressure hose from a '94 Camaro that has been modified to fit into the Caprice pump. Basically, a section of about 4" of tubing was removed and a new end put on. The other section of hose came with the rack and pinion kit from Classic Chevy.

Next item of business was the radiator and fan set-up. I went with this radiator from Summit for $260:

http://store.summitracing.com/partdetail.asp?autofilter=1&part=SUM%2D380473&N=700+115&autoview=sku

http://static.summitracing.com/global/images/prod/large/sum-380473_w.jpg

I had to poke some holes near the core support for the hoses to come through, also note the rubber foot for the radiator to rest on:

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/IMG_0001.jpg

Here is a shot of the upper radiator area, along with the new intake elbow and K&N filter:) Also, note how snuggly the Taurus SHO electric fan and shroud fit.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/IMG_0009.jpg

I also polished the fuel rails...wasn't digging the black and thought with the intake elbow and exhaust pieces that polishing up the fuel injection was a little icing on the cake.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/IMG_0005.jpg

Here's a shot showing the radiator secured in place along the core support.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/IMG_0012.jpg

[Crafty]

Mike, the car looks great, your dad will be stoked.

Where did the radiator fan come from?

[Mike93]

Mike, the car looks great, your dad will be stoked.

Where did the radiator fan come from?

I am a Taurus SHO enthusiast on the side and have parted a few of these cars out...so luckily I had a fan leftover that I never sold. I had intentions of using it on my 5.0 Mustang but this took priority:)

[Mike93]

Needed an overflow tank for the radiator...this was a fire entinguisher in its past life.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/Seven/IMG_0012.jpg

Gutted, with some tubing...I can't take credit for this as it was done by a friend's father.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/Seven/IMG_0011.jpg

Painted, and installed.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/Seven/IMG_0016.jpg

Since the AC was deleted I needed a pulley to go in place of so I can run the stock belt. Began with a foamcore template, and some scrap aluminum. The pulley is an idler pulley that was used on the stock tensioner, and the cylindrical piece was turned on a lathe to match the dimensions from the bracket of the tensioner.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/Seven/IMG_0013.jpg

Some clearcoat paint on the aluminum and charcoal on the bolts.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/Seven/IMG_0020.jpg

Installed...I'm wondering if there will be a problem with the pulley not being ribbed for the belt and wanting to walk a bit???

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/Seven/IMG_0023.jpg

[Mike93]

Todays update: Engine runs:)

Still have a lot of buttoning up to do, but the wiring is all sorted out and she fired right up! No pics of the latest as most of the work I've been up to has been fairly boring and slightly insignificant to post up.

[12pack]

That's going to be one fine ride when your done. :tu

[SScott55]

That is going to be a great ride.

Love the fire extinguisher, looks great and very resourceful:tu

[daniel6762]

Hi, did you have to make any changes to the cross member to fit the new trans, or does it bolt straight in ?

[Sweden]

Great Work Mike.:tu

It must feel great to start the engine for the first time.:)

[Mike93]

Hi, did you have to make any changes to the cross member to fit the new trans, or does it bolt straight in ?

Since there was a Turbo 350 in there previously I simply used that crossmember and bolted new brackets to the frame. I believe I have some pics...

Speaking of pics, my computer at home has been acting up with not allowing me to download off my camera, so I've been downloading them at work and need to update this thread!

As of today, the engine has ran! Problem is the VATS system is not deactivated in the PCM and shuts the engine down after 2 seconds. I will be having this taken care of as the PCM needs a retune since I've altered so much from the stock LT1 set-up.

Once that is squared away I'm only a few afternoons away from melting the rear tires!!!

[daniel6762]

Nice job ! Did you have to modify the drive shaft at all ?

Dose anyone know the part number for the LT1 corvette accessory bracket. I want to do the same thing but keep all the accessories.

[Mike93]

Nice job ! Did you have to modify the drive shaft at all ?

Dose anyone know the part number for the LT1 corvette accessory bracket. I want to do the same thing but keep all the accessories.

No modification to the driveshaft was needed in this scenario, however I was basically replacing a Turbo 350 so that may have helped.

Sorry, no help from me with the accesories:(

[phbiggs]

Mike that is a fan-friggen-tastic job you have done documenting the processes of this conversion. It certainly gives me hope on my endeavor with my 57 wagon.

I will be following this thread closely.

Phil

[Mike93]

Was on vactation for the past week...but found time last night to put the Lokar shift linkage in and back the car out of the garage on it's own power!!! Gave her a few revs and this is definitely not the same car that my dad sent out here:eek: Loud bark is the best way to describe it...almost rivals the snap of my built 5 liter Mustang.

Still have some odds and ends to take care of, but I'm hoping that either today or tomorrow I'll be able to take her out around the block:) Have to take care of the jungle of a yard after 1 weeks worth of rain first:mad:

I've been taking pics here and there, even a video or two...but my usb port is acting up so I can't upload anything right now.

[gconnsr]

Loud bark is the best way to describe it...almost rivals the snap of my built 5 liter Mustang.

:D:tu

[Mike93]

It drives!!! Took it a mile down the road to the gas station. Needs an alignment pretty badly as I could smell the front tires getting punished from too much toe out. I was quite easy on the gas and probably didn't go over 30mph, but it felt pretty **** good!

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/0820081947.jpg

[gconnsr]

That's a pretty car dude.:tu Your Dads going to be a happy guy when he sees her.:tu

[tripleduece]

Awsome! looks great!! your dad is going to LOVE it!!!

[oleblu72]

Thats a real nice 55 you have there Mike, and nice of you to entertain us with your build, good job. After you get all your loose ends tied up on the 55 it will be interesting to see how she runs.

I have two 94 9C1 Caprices, I ran both of them at the strip a couple of times. One has 89K on the clock and she ran 14.60 ,the other one had 115K and it ran 14.69, not bad for a pair of tanks.

I've been entertaining thoughts of pulling the motor out of the high mileage one and stick it in my 55 just like what you just got done doing.So thanks alot for doing the footwork for me, this will be usefull to me when I get around to doing it, good luck on the 55.:tu

Mark

[94Woody]

I have two 94 9C1 Caprices, ......... One has 89K on the clock ...... ,the other one had 115K...

I've been entertaining thoughts of pulling the motor out of the high mileage one and stick it in my 55.........

Mark High mileage shoot that things just broke in good for another hunderd at least to two hundred thou more. Good motors. :)

[Mike93]

Finally got some old pics hosted, so this may be a bit out of place.

Had to bend new lines for the tranny cooler. The Summit radiator has a built in tank with 5/16" fittings, while the 4L60E is 3/8". I ran the 3/8" from the trans, made a few bends, and then fit the 3/8" line over the 5/16" lines from the radiator. I took tranny hose over the top to stop any leak potential.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/IMG_0010-1.jpg

For the throttle cable I used the Caprice piece, cut it in half, and bolted to the end of it some hardware so that it could mate to the '55 pivot arm.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/IMG_0014.jpg

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/IMG_0015-1.jpg

Power steering needed a mount. I took some angle aluminum, some bolts, and here's the result.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/IMG_0019.jpg

More to come...stay tuned

[Mike93]

For the shift linkage I was going to try to use the Caprice parts. However this was proving to be too much time and effort, and I wasn't confident with where it was going. $50 later and this is what I went with, and am glad I did. Lokar direct linkage, nice piece with several adjustment points:

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/IMG_0005-1.jpg

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/IMG_0006-1.jpg

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/IMG_0007.jpg

Installed, feels very soild

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/IMG_0017.jpg

[Mike93]

This was kindof fun, needed a way to conceal the Caprice fuse box. Found at Lowes this electrica box that measured 6"x6"x4" and had a nice removable lid.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/IMG_0001-1.jpg

Mounted with some well nuts, also note the hole I cut into it for the harness to pass through.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/IMG_0003-1.jpg

Painted, covered up, just have to run some loom over the wires.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/IMG_0009-2.jpg

Also, I found a grooved pulley for that bottom bracket I had posted earlier in the thread. A belt 1" shorter than stock was used to get a nice fit. The stock piece was too sloppy.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/IMG_0013-1.jpg

[94Woody]

Keep the updates coming. I am taking notes, as I plan to start same project on a 56. Looking real good.

[Mike93]

Car has been on the road and I've been putting as many miles on as possible:) Since my last visit, the following things were done:

*Added the 2" blocks to the rear to lower the back end. My dad put the front springs in, but when he put the rear blocks in the old wheels wouldn't fit. With the wheels on the car now the fit is VERY tight, just enough clearance to get them on.

*got an alignment at Goodyear. Dude named Ralph took care of this, did a nice job.

*cleaned up more of the wiring. Previous owner(s) had all the headlights, taillight, dash lights, etc. MESSED UP. With the new column in nothing worked properly. Pretty much had to rewire everything...

*took the car to get a new exhaust fabbed up. Was pretty happy with the end result, will try to get some pics soon to show what they did. I used the Flowmasters from the Caprice, believe they are 50 series. Car sounds MUCH better, isn't too loud, but when you get on it screams alright. Also, the car pulls pretty good on the top end...feels wierd going fast in a car like this:)

*Still been making adjustments as little things come up here and there. Before the exhaust was taken care of, I had to rebend some fuel lines to make clearance. Made some adjustments to the steering linkage to undo a light bind I was feeling.

All in all, the car drives great! I think my dad will be pretty stoked with the changes.

Here's some pics before the lowering and the exhaust work:

Note the flex pipe, thankfully this is gone now...as is the odd bend in the cat back and those hillbilly tailpipes:)

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/IMG_0010.jpg

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/IMG_0001-1.jpg

I also upbolted the emblem on the hood...this isn't permanent as the holes are now visible.
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/IMG_0003.jpg

engine shot...
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/IMG_0012.jpg

Before lowering...
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/IMG_0004.jpg

After lowering...ahhh yes, the tucked wheel:) sorry for the cell quality pic:(

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/0924082356a.jpg

[Sweden]

Looking really good Mike.:tu

[carls 56]

have to thank you mike for this great build :tu. it has been very enjoyable, thank you:tu. dad is going to be a happy man;). your a son to be proud of :)...............p.s. bet your dad can hardly wait;)

[SScott55]

Great transformation,

Love the new stance:tu

[Chuck55]

Car looks great. Love the engine bay. I wish I had the ability to do all the mods. Real impressive.

[phbiggs]

Mike that progress is friggen awesome, my hats off to you bud!

[Mike93]

Thanks for the compliments everyone:)

Here's a few shots showing the new exhaust and a better shot of the rear being lowered. The tips of the exhaust aren't perfectly level to eachother. I'll be taking these off and trimming them to fit nicer, and to not hang out as much as they currently are. I may also paint them flat black...right now they're just bare aluminized metal. Will also try to get some nice shots from underneath the car.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/IMG_0001-2.jpg

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/IMG_0003-2.jpg

[bkcon]

i have some questions about the wiring.
i have a 94 camaro lt1 and t56 trans.
i have the computer, wiring harness and all.
what did you have to do to make it all work?
brian.:)

[bkcon]

mike are you still out there?
brian

[Rick_L]

bkcon, just post your specific question. Your question is very general. I can probably help, as can several others.

[#1BRADii]

That's a nice looking car you have there Mike. I could never be able to drive in 0 degree weather like you did. I would have froze with my foot on the pedal going 65 down the highway.:D

[57BUDDii]

Mike,

Sweet looking engine compartment. Love that color.
Thanks for sharing this with us.... I bet your dad is excited more than we can imagine. :)

BUDDii

[Mike93]

i have some questions about the wiring.
i have a 94 camaro lt1 and t56 trans.
i have the computer, wiring harness and all.
what did you have to do to make it all work?
brian.:)


Bkcon, sorry but I've been absent from the forum for the past few months...sorry I missed your post:( Did you find the info you were looking for???

To sum it up, I simply transferred the entire engine harness from the Caprice to the '55. Then just run wiring to power the fuel pump, and wiring to get the signal from the ignition swith. Obviously, it gets more in depth...but this is the general idea. I will be having the computer reprogrammed shortly as I removed many items from the harness: EGR, smog, went to a single blade fan, different intake, headers, etc.

[Mike93]

It's been awhile, but I'm back! Life got in the way over the past few months, as well as winter, so I haven't touched the car for some time now:(

Anyway, it's time to get back at this thing now that the weather is beginning to break. A majority of the "making it drive" work is over, still have some misc. areas to fix up a bit...like a list of 30 small things. But while those are going on I'll be concentrating on the interior and the trunk. Last night I started removing some trim work and found a little sketchbook in the backseat so I jotted down a quick sketch of a direction I may want to go with:

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/Interior%20build/Initialsketch.jpg

Basic idea is to redo the door panels with some kind of suede leather with stitch lines on top, and black carpet on the bottom...seperated by a piece of metal trim. These would continue into the rear seating area. All new gauges would go in the dash board, as well as new dash trim. Build a center console to hold the radio, junk tray, cup holder, etc.

Then in the trunk box it all in, add some hinged doors for storage...possibly inlay some metal with hooks to bungee down luggage as this car will be used for weekend getaways.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/Interior%20build/Trunk.jpg

When I get some down time I will be cleaning these drawings up and start playing around with color and finishes...but I was rather excited about getting back into the project so I thought I'd share:)

*Anyone have any advice on how to remove the 2 window crank handles??? I got the door handle off with ease...but these other 2 are killing me!

[Tom$lick]

I like it. Nice clean lines, not to flashy, just classy.:tu

[tripleduece]

really dig the trunk set up!

[Mike93]

Interior plans were put on hold rather quickly as I realized I'm short of a few parts to accurately put this together. First issue was the carpet is all mix-matched rolls that overlap, this was causing all sorts of problems with measuring for clearances on the center console...so a new one piece unit was ordered and currently on backorder. Also, needed gauges and some trim work...gauges arrived, trim work on it's way.

So I got started with the gauges. First up was the fuel gauge as I had to remove the tank to fix a leak from a bad seal. Long story short, the Stewart Warner gauge was a 240-30 ohm range, while the Eckler's sending unit with sensor operated at 0-30 ohms. Couldn't find a way to mate these two ranges through electrical trickery, so I decided to get to the fab work.

I had an extra sending unit to use as a constant reference point for sensor and float orientation:

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/IMG_0010-1.jpg

Stock sensor gutted as I needing only the mounting plate:

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/IMG_0014.jpg

Stock unit, stock unit gutted, SW sensor ready to be mounted to gutted stock unit:

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/IMG_0015.jpg

All mounted up, ~30 ohms at "full":

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/IMG_0017.jpg

~240 ohms "empty":

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/IMG_0018.jpg

My card got full so I didn't get a chance to snap pics of the float, but that was just a matter of needing and trimming the wire to match. Now I can run the sending unit for the EFI, and the gauges that I wanted:)

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/IMG_0009.jpg

[carls 56]

hi mike! thanks for pics and update :tu...................where are the gauges going :confused:

[Mike93]

hi mike! thanks for pics and update :tu...................where are the gauges going :confused:

If you look a few posts up I linked a drawing I had done of the proposed interior. In the stock speedo housing I will put the 3-3/8" SW speedometer and tachmeter. Where the radio once was I will put the remaining 2-1/16" gauges. I picked up a dash trim kit without holes, and will have to modify this to get everything mounted up...those pics will be coming within the week I hope.

Mike

[bkcon]

great job mike.:tu
i have a 94 z28 LT1/T56 install going on myself. What wiring harness did you need to install; im considering the gen 7... what headers, and steering box did you use? and steering column. did you move the engine forward or to the passengers side, what radiator, etc... i would love to get all your insight into my project...
brian:cool:

[bkcon]

mike.

we are thinking alike. before i read you above post, i was thinking of reworking my guage locations too since i will be using a tranny with an electronic sending unit. i once had a 68 camaro 4 speed bucket seat car with a counil. i have always liked the guage cluster. i like the square cluster arrangement, this is what i plan to put in my 55, just a short council w/out the shifter hole. my shifter is way back with the t56 trans. would like to see how yours worked out if you got it done. great idea with the picture album.
im in vancouver washington... where are you located.

brian

[Rick_L]

bkcon, I'm doing an LT1/T56 in my 55.

I'm modifying a stock engine harness.

Headers are Earle Williams. His standard offering except I had him weld O2 bungs in the collectors. Any header that will clear a CPP500 box will work fine. Don't worry about matching the D ports, just make sure the headers are bigger than the ports in the head.

Steering box is a CPP500, and a Flaming River column.

The engine is mounted 3/4" forward with mounts I fabricated but you could use EW mounts, or most any other side mount kit. 3/4" forward is preferred because the steam tube bolt heads may hit the firewall, though I've heard of stock location mounts clearing. I fabbed my crossmember too, but most anybody's crossmember kit works just fine. The engine is centered side to side but moving it just a little to the passenger side would gain header to steering box clearance. Mine is very tight, but it will work.

I'm using a PRC radiator. It was ordered with hose bungs to match the LT1 radiator hoses (stock bungs are bigger). I also had them make the hose bung on the passenger side 90º instead of straight. This lets you get a hose that has a single bend in it. Easy to find at the auto supply. I also had them weld in a 1/4" pipe bung in the passenger side tank for the steam line. I'm using the dual 11" fans that were used on the donor but most guys go with the dual 11" Spal or Derale.

You didn't ask but I have a Rock Valley fuel tank with in-tank pump.

[Mike93]

great job mike.:tu
i have a 94 z28 LT1/T56 install going on myself. What wiring harness did you need to install; im considering the gen 7... what headers, and steering box did you use? and steering column. did you move the engine forward or to the passengers side, what radiator, etc... i would love to get all your insight into my project...
brian:cool:

Hi Brian, sorry for the huge delay in getting back to this post...my bad tdi

To answer your questions...I ran the Caprice harness and deleted out of it all plugs I wasn't needing. Headers were ebay deals...I could dig up the link if you needed me to. Steering is rack and pinion from Ecklers Classic Chevy, with the Caprice pump running it. AS far as I know, engine location hasn't changed...at least it was spot on with where the one that I removed was. Radiator was from Summit and meant for S10's with V8 swaps. It just so happened to have all the correct dimensions and price tag that I was looking for:)

I'm located in Buffalo, NY...the car will eventually be headed back to Minneapolis, MN

[Mike93]

Wow, I'm way behind with posting progress...I'll try to catch back up here.

With the fuel tank out I thought it would be a good time to coat it with 3M rubberized undercoating, note the crazy bend in the fuel line. This is to get around the tank strap and some misc. crap under the floor pan where the external pump is mounted.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/IMG_0001a.jpg

Headers started doing their discoloring thing...so those came back out.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/0322091053a.jpg

High temp exhaust primer...

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/0322091213a.jpg

Don't have a direct pic yet...but I then painted them flat black with high temp paint.

Also got a Lokar firewall mounted trans dipstick. Ended up needing to mount it on the fuse box due to access around the header which is quite close to the fireall and was in the way. Made a small bracket for this in the event it needed to be easily removed.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/IMG_0007a.jpg

Many more pics coming up later today...

[Mike93]

Now onto the interior. Started with painting the dash...before it was pretty much a spray can job with some runs, dust, and a nice dull finish.

Scuffed it up...

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/IMG_0006a.jpg

Primer...

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/IMG_0008.jpg

PPG single stage dark graphite paint...went down sooooo nicely.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/0419091725a.jpg

To get the Bel Air style dash trim to accept the gauges I needed some holes poked out. Thanks to the wire EDM at work (and a friends help) I had 4 precisely cut holes:) Here's a piece of aluminum that was used as a brace under the thin trim piece to keep it supported while being cut:

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/IMG_1137.jpg

EDM in progress...
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/0501090922a.jpg

Finished product mocked up onto the dash...holes were cut out of the dash and the trim was then permanently mounted up.
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/IMG_1139.jpg

[Mike93]

Next up was modifying the stock cluster to accept the speedometer and tachometer. Started with some styrene that needed to be trimmed to match the clear lens.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/0503091018a.jpg

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/0503091145a.jpg

Next was the piece that holds it all in place (the black piece on the right).

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/IMG_1141.jpg

Interference...

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/IMG_1142.jpg

Trimmed out.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/IMG_1144.jpg

Painted and mounted. Not shown yet are the lights that fill the 4 holes for turn signal, high beam indicator, and check engine light.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/IMG_1145.jpg

[Mike93]

Onto the stock cardboard kick panels.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/0428091935a.jpg

Carpet, glue, some cuts...

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/0428092005b.jpg

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/0428092006a.jpg

Installed

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/IMG_1152.jpg

And pretty much where the interior is today...with exception to the 4 guages which I'm in process of wiring up (in this pic they're just resting in place), also the new carpet is now fully in place.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/IMG_1150.jpg

[Chuck55]

That all looks awesome. I love the way you custom fit the speedo and tach in the gauge housing. Truly amazing custom work. Thanks for sharing the pics. Keep up the good work and keep us posted with the pictures.

[shoeboxlen]

looking awsome! Hope mine comes out half as nice as yours!

Len

[alive 55]

you took my idea including the gauges....thank you now i know it looks great!!

[carls 56]

hi mike! dash looks beautiful :tu headers came out great :tu. thanks for pics and updates :cool:

[T,s 55]

Car is looking awsome!

Shawn

[phbiggs]

Mike you rock!

That is some awesome work you are doing there!

[auggie56]

Bump.....

[Pingar]

looks awesome.

[Sweden]

Nice job Mike. :congrats::tu

[bkcon]

hi mike...
im back again.
will have some pic updates for this thread soon.
so far my 94 z28 lt1/t56 pullout combo has been gone thru and installed in the car. the front end was removed for clean up and painting, this made installation of the new 500 steering gear, disk brake upgrade, transmission horn removal, steering column shortened 3 inches on the bottom, and 2 inches on the top... "puts the steering wheel in the perfect spot too", i went with the side engine mounts fro s&p????????? wow this put the #7 header pipe on the steering box so i made my own mounts over to the passenger side 1/2 inch, and i dropped the front of the engine about one inch to get a 3 degrees phasing angle on the trany. this still required a little tunnel cutting as you will see when the pics come. i had a drive shaft from a 90s camaro that dropped right in, perfect length no cutting. i noticed you used the same side mounts... did you have any issues with the bellhousing hitting on the tunnel? ive got some coated block hugger headers, silver but i think i might like the blue color after its fired up. will post pics for others to see.

[Mike93]

Wow...I've dropped the ball BIG TIME with this thread:(

Bkcon, no issues with bellhousing clearances as I run the 4l60E...so don't really have the same application as you. I realize this a a few months late however...

Now, onto the fun:)

With the dash coming together I moved onto painting some of the interior metal parts. I don't have pictures of everything, but all of the window trim, the steering wheel, steering column, cig tray of dash, glove box door, floor vents, and HVAC bezel were painted to match the dash.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/IMG_1101.jpg

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/IMG_1097.jpg

Wanted a center console to hold the cd player, have a few cup holders, and junk tray, and rails to mimic some of the style lines of the car. Was built with wood and ren, then covered with carpet on the sides to blend into the floor, and suede on the top to batch the soon-to-com door panels. The ren pieces were sculpted by hand using the bandsaw, router table, and a little massaging with sandpaper.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/0713092029a.jpg

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/0714092141a.jpg

From here I hit the door panels. I built them in thirds as I wanted to have 3 seperate materials. Bottom: carpet; Middle: painted panel; Top: suede with vertical stitching somewhat relating to the stock look.

Here's the back side of the bottom panel. You can see the 6 1/2" opening for the speaker the is 100% hidden from view, just the way I like it:) I really wanted to conceal and/or have the moderna ameneties blend into the interior.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/0613091503a.jpg

The top panels going together. Again, I'm lacking pics here but this is suede sewn to a foam backing, with vertical stitching spaced ~2" apart...glued to a styrene sheet with christmas tree plugs to snap it into place.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/0707092249a.jpg

The back panel...

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/0707092252a.jpg

There will be more pics of these pieces installed in a following post...

Lastly, I finished off the trunk in the same manner as the interior panels. Left a cut out in the passenger side to serve as light duty storage for towels, spray wax, etc. Note: the 6 metal screws are temporary as the original black plastic removable ones proved to not hold.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/DSC_0257.jpg

[Mike93]

With the interior and trunk completed, I moved on to making a radiator cowl piece. Started with a styrene mock up...

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/0710090010a.jpg

...that was used to make these 2 pieces of 16 gauge steel. I had to use 2 pieces since the roller and break I had available to use at work could only handle up to a 36" width. Oh well, work with what you have sometimes!

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/0714091832a.jpg

The cool cutting tool:)

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/jpeg_reencoded.jpg
Welded together...

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/0715090046a.jpg

Painted, and installed...

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/DSC_0229.jpg

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/DSC_0231.jpg

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/DSC_0234.jpg

So with the days approaching fast of when I had too drive this thing back to Minnesota, I wanted some better handling...so on went a front sway bar:) This made a HUGE differnce in how the car drove, I was amazed that this big boat could now be driven like any modern car could.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/0512092143a.jpg

[Mike93]

At this point, the car is done and I'm ready to make the 1200 mile journey back to Minnesota. Here's some glamour pics from the drive...my route took me to Cleveland for the first stop to visit some friends, then 10 hours to Des Moines, IA to visit my mom, then 3 hours to Minneapolis, followed by another 3 hours to the cabin in Northern Minnesota. Of all the roadtrips I've taken in my life, with many different car, this was by far the most relaxed and enjoyable trip to date:)

*75mph and ~22mpg average on the trip

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/DSCN0346.jpg

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/DSCN0460.jpg

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/DSCN0435.jpg

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/DSCN0439.jpg

and the arrival into my most favorite state ever:) NY needs to take a lesson on how to greet their incoming travelers...

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/MN.jpg

[Mike93]

...and here's finals of the interior. Props to Joe (35YR57) for a few of these pics!

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/DSC_0212.jpg

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/DSC_0322.jpg

*Joe
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/5504.jpg

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/DSC_0315.jpg

*Joe
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/5511.jpg

[Mike93]

...and some exterior shots. Okay, I think I'm done in here!

LOVE the hood bird...may get one of these for the '59 wood boat...

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/DSC_0225.jpg

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/DSC_0008.jpg

Taken in Minneapolis...
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/DSC_0169a.jpg

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/DSC_0307.jpg

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/DSCN0573.jpg

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/3864586255_5cdb3c3202_b.jpg

And FINALLY...Dad wearing a smile in his 'new' '55 Chevy:) Made it worth all the time and efforts when you see something like this.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/DSC_0287.jpg

[Mike93]

So....with that out of the way, I'll try to wrap up the build here. The car was in my hands for about 18 months. I still haven't added up the total bill or how many hours I put in for it really doesn't matter after seeing how happy my dad has been with the car. He now drives it regularily, and has no reservations about breaking the tires loose with a big ole grin on his face:)

Performance wise, this car is NIGHT AND DAY different from when it all began. Every aspect of it has been improved, and I can confidently drive it in rush hour traffic with no worries. Turning, stopping, accelaration, comfort, stereo, etc. is great:) I personally have a 12 second Mustang and I all but forgot about that car when I had the '55 in my possession...that's how cool the '55's are;)

I learned A TON on this project, and dad already has been talking about wanting to build a convertible next. There's a lot I'd do differently, but overall I'm pretty happy with how it turned out. I'd like to thank those who helped out along the way as well, directly and indirectly. I did a lot of lurking around here and found this site to be a great resource:)

I will try to stop in here more often and answer any questions that I can:tu

[bkcon]

Mike,
what front sway bar did you use?
also, im from winona; grew up there...
brian
ps: tank pics soon...

[joco]

The car is looking good Mike and your dad is a happy man, Respect :congrats:

Jo

[Mike93]

Mike,
what front sway bar did you use?
also, im from winona; grew up there...
brian
ps: tank pics soon...


I believe the sway bar was right out of the Ecklers catalog. Was relatively inexpensive, install was straight forward, all hardware included, preforms great! I don't have anything else to compare it to however...so my judgement may be a bit skewed.

Winona, eh? Very nice! I'm from Burnsville...which is where the '55 now resides.

Jo, thanks for the props!

[57 Bel Air LS7]

Winona, eh? Very nice! I'm from Burnsville...which is where the '55 now resides.
Looks great Mike. :tu:tu:tu So.... will we see you at 2010 Back To The Fifty's show?? :party0031:

[Jims55]

Mike - very nice build! I'm putting an LT1/T56 into my '55 sedan and was wondering if you hid the ECM and the fuse box in the black box on the firewall.

Thanks!
Jim

[Mike93]

Looks great Mike. :tu:tu:tu So.... will we see you at 2010 Back To The Fifty's show?? :party0031:

DEFINITELY!!!

Mike - very nice build! I'm putting an LT1/T56 into my '55 sedan and was wondering if you hid the ECM and the fuse box in the black box on the firewall.

Thanks!
Jim

ECM is mounted on the drivers side of the radiator, in pretty much the same orientation as it was on the Caprice. I have to mock up a few brackets to bolt it in place...will see if I have a picture. The fuse box is mounted on the firewall, here's a reference pic.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/deener50/55%20Webshots/IMG_0012.jpg

[07dodge]

Extremely nice! Now Im getting antsy to get off my rear and do the same swap in my 57. Definately digging the console; the vast majority just dont fit well but that one looks GREAT! Props to you :congrats:

[bkcon]

Mike:

i have the 94 LT1; if yours is the 94 how are you coping with the water problem on the venting of the opti spark.
i read an article on drilling a second hole and route vacuum venting.
also read about a kit you can install to update the opti spark, but you need to drill a hole deeper in the cam shaft.
just wondering if you had to overcome this issue.

bri.:shakehands:

[56 Wagon Wheel]

:wavey: G'day Mike nice car. You did a really good job :congrats: :tu:tu

[auggie56]

Mike:

i have the 94 LT1; if yours is the 94 how are you coping with the water problem on the venting of the opti spark.
i read an article on drilling a second hole and route vacuum venting.
also read about a kit you can install to update the opti spark, but you need to drill a hole deeper in the cam shaft.
just wondering if you had to overcome this issue.

bri.:shakehands:

I just read an article, where you drill three small holes in the bottom of the Opti Spark, and use vacuum tee's plumbed into a vacuum source.

[bkcon]

thanks for the link; but i can not find the info.
could you send the page not the link?
thanks, bri:happy0030:

[Rick_L]

"....use vacuum tee's plumbed into a vacuum source"

The 95 up system has an air intake from a fitting in the air cleaner tract, so the air going through the Opti is "clean". I think there's also an orifice fitting/check valve in the vacuum line to more or less set the flow rate and guard against backflow. Just like a typical pcv system, except here it's the distributor instead of the crankcase.

The 95 up distributor has a bigger bearing and a longer drive pin, which was also a problem. Retrofitting is a PITA unless you are rebuilding the engine.

Ironically, the 95 up Opti units sell for less that 94 and older ones. So it's a good idea to upgrade if you are rebuilding.

[auggie56]

"....use vacuum tee's plumbed into a vacuum source"

The 95 up system has an air intake from a fitting in the air cleaner tract, so the air going through the Opti is "clean". I think there's also an orifice fitting/check valve in the vacuum line to more or less set the flow rate and guard against backflow. Just like a typical pcv system, except here it's the distributor instead of the crankcase.

The 95 up distributor has a bigger bearing and a longer drive pin, which was also a problem. Retrofitting is a PITA unless you are rebuilding the engine.

Ironically, the 95 up Opti units sell for less that 94 and older ones. So it's a good idea to upgrade if you are rebuilding.

The timing cover and seal is different, and maybe the drive as well.