Moparts
Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/04/12 01:07 AM
The Project: Restore this 71 Challenger back to its former glory.
The Crew: Me (Stephen Sigel) and the occasional spare hand to lift things.
Basic Info: Restore the car with original options but making some performance upgrades. The car will be changed over to a four speed and upgraded to disc brakes. The Basic goal is to make the car a show car worthy driver for the owner.
The Car: Originally the car is a Real 71 Challenger R/T 383 Auto FJ6 car. Since the original drive train is gone we are going to change over the trans to a four speed and the motor plans are undecided.
Here is the car as the project gets started...
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/04/12 01:17 AM
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/04/12 01:20 AM
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/04/12 01:22 AM
Front Frame Jig built...
The Donor Rails...
Blasted...
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/04/12 01:26 AM
The Rails Are not perfect needed some work...
Before...
After...
Before...
After...
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/04/12 01:32 AM
The New rails Next to the Car...
Front End Cut Off...
Cowl Removed...
Complete Rail and Front Floor Gone...
Addressing some rust on the Inner Rocker...
Before...
After...
More to Come
Posted By: jdr2483
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/04/12 01:34 AM
Keep up the good work. Is the Young Gun Project done?
Posted By: aspenrt360
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/04/12 12:01 PM
wow you sure do like the big projects! looks like a good start though.
Posted By: larry4406
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/05/12 11:08 AM
Wow! I also need to do some front frame rail repairs. What gauge/thickness of metal are you using?
Posted By: 68427vette
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/05/12 12:58 PM
sweet!!
post up a Buildsheet or fendertag,, love to see options!! jc
subscribe
looks as if you have a donor car in the weeds!!!
awsome your saving such a COOL optioned car!! it will be a show stopper!! lots of work,, but worth it!! LOL my kinda project!!!
Posted By: CJD AUTOMOTIVE
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/05/12 02:09 PM
Very ambitious!!
Not trying to hijack your thread, but this is an argument I have with my Mopar resto crowd friends. You have a pile of parts that's 90% of a car, call it pile A, and the car in another pile that's 10% of a car, pile B. The only thing that will ever be original about pile B is 10%, the rest is Taiwan steel and repop parts. Everybody is okay with bringing half of China to pile B, but mention rebody, and everybody freaks. If you take the 10% useable stuff from pile B, and put it on another car, doesn't that make it more original than repop Taiwan sheet metal could ever be? The end results are the same, just one is original as Detroit intended, and the other is a modern reproduction. Maybe I'm wrong, we argue about it a lot. Just wanted your take on it.
Posted By: 68427vette
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/05/12 02:57 PM
Well,, my take is , he s doing everything possible to save the car(restoration), and NOT cutting cowl number and radiator support out and placing it on a donor car(a rebody) lets not hijack this thread, as this topic will always be brought up!! and has been 50 times a year.. there is a clear distinction to the two.
Why we care?? i dont.. only the owner,, and future buyer should care.. my 2 cents.
jc
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/05/12 06:19 PM
jdr2483 Yes the 71 Bee is done, still needs some tweaking. Heres a pic...
larry4406 I'm using some 3/16" galvanized for the repairs on the rails.
CJD Automotive Everyones entitled to their own position on the topic. My opinion is simple, this is a restoration, not a rebody. Follow the thread to watch it, if it were a rebody there would be 10 pics tops of metal work, cut splice, cut splice. Yes new metal is from tawain but has better technology involved in its production and is 40 years newer. Lets end that there, go to general if you want to rant some more...
Posted By: CuriousYella70
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/05/12 07:10 PM
Quote:
jdr2483 Yes the 71 Bee is done, still needs some tweaking. Heres a pic...
larry4406 I'm using some 3/16" galvanized for the repairs on the rails.
CJD Automotive Everyones entitled to their own position on the topic. My opinion is simple, this is a restoration, not a rebody. Follow the thread to watch it, if it were a rebody there would be 10 pics tops of metal work, cut splice, cut splice. Yes new metal is from tawain but has better technology involved in its production and is 40 years newer. Lets end that there, go to general if you want to rant some more...
Completely agree with the above! Do you have a post with the updated SuperBee photos? I followed your thread and didn't see the finished product - would love to see more shots of the Bee!
Posted By: CJD AUTOMOTIVE
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/05/12 07:17 PM
Sorry guys, wasn't trying to "rant". Just wanted somebody else's opinion. I got it. With an explanation point.
Going to the general now to see if someone over their will kick me in the nuts too.
Posted By: burdar
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/05/12 07:46 PM
Quote:
Do you have a post with the updated SuperBee photos? I followed your thread and didn't see the finished product - would love to see more shots of the Bee!
You never posted the finished pics. The thread just kind of died. You need post one last update. 
Posted By: jeff968
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/05/12 08:13 PM
Great project, amazing that with all that rust the area under the battery tray was that clean! i wonder why someone cut that piece out of the cowl? To us to fill in an A/C car opening? Good luck
Posted By: new bee
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/06/12 12:17 AM
I'm all for this.
There will be another cool car driving around when this Challenger is finished. Why scrap it? Here is an opportunity for someone to advance their knowledge in restoration, stay out of trouble (aside from all the tetnis shots he'll need working with that much rust), and put a Dodge Challenger back into circulation. No doubt, there will be enough documentation available for all to see, leaving little doubt what was done to this car.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/06/12 01:19 AM
Awesome job so far! Its build threads like this that give me/us the inspiration to tackle a restoration of a rusty Mopar. Keep up the great work and pics!
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/07/12 02:30 PM
Thanks for the kind words guys! Ill try and get another post on the Young Gun thread here shortly. Im real busy these days with multiple projects and work. Updates to come sometime this evening...
Posted By: 70440+6bbl
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/07/12 03:09 PM
Quote:
I'm all for this.
There will be another cool car driving around when this Challenger is finished. Why scrap it? Here is an opportunity for someone to advance their knowledge in restoration, stay out of trouble (aside from all the tetnis shots he'll need working with that much rust), and put a Dodge Challenger back into circulation. No doubt, there will be enough documentation available for all to see, leaving little doubt what was done to this car.
Haha, great avatar pic, Moss rules!
Posted By: Anonymous
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/08/12 05:34 AM
What happened to collage?
Great work BTW.
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/08/12 05:45 AM
Superfreak Thanks! As far as college goes it was costing me to much money. Trying to pay for college without working was tough. The school i went to wasnt cheap either. Well see how things go from here out i might get back there...
I have a couple updates for your guys...
I blasted the Original Cowl, its going to need metal work, but i wanted to save the original one so its well worth it...
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/08/12 05:55 AM
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/08/12 06:00 AM
After i mocked it up i tore it back down to take care of rust on the inner rocker on the passenger side...
Before...
After...
Front end of it was gone, pulled a partial piece off of some scrap that was laying around...
Before...
After...
Thats all for now!
Posted By: 68427vette
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/08/12 12:30 PM
i see you went with Goodmark stuff,,,not AMD. well see if those 1/4s fit???
Posted By: kfd
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/08/12 01:53 PM
Holy cow!!!
This thread is inspiring! I can't wait to see the end result. Man, I need to get a welder and start practicing when I get back stateside. This is an idiot question, but are you using Tig or Mig for all that work??
KFD
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/08/12 02:06 PM
68427vette The fenders are GoodMark. Floors, Firewall, and wheel wells are Sherman. Hood, quarters, decklid and many more are AMD. Its a mix bag of bang for buck parts...
kfd I am using a MIG welder for all the work. You can use either mig or tig, its just a matter of knowing how to operate the machine and have them set right. Im pretty good with it since I'm a welder, but i taught myself by learning on my 71 Super Bee. Get a welder and practice
...
Posted By: kfd
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/08/12 02:19 PM
Quote:
. Get a welder and practice ...
Haha. Thanks! I will see if I can get some facetime with a welder before I get back to the states in August. I am really enjoying the hell out of this thread, I await future installments!
KFD
Posted By: JDMopar
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/08/12 02:40 PM
WOW !
It's coming along nicely, and I too am glad to see it being saved.
The fact that you only have minor tweaks to make after mocking it up is the result of you're not the least bit shy about bracing the living hell out of the car before you start cutting the old stuff out.
Keep up the good work.
Posted By: Mopargnome
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/08/12 05:36 PM
Awesome!
Doing a project like these I run out of clamps too. Have you tried clecos? For what your doing they are great! I will be watching this thread!
Posted By: 70shaker6pk
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/09/12 01:16 PM
Great work!! very nice!!!
Posted By: FC7AARcuda
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/09/12 01:44 PM
Great thread. I'm happy to see someone is saving that car. I was tempted when it was for sale a few years back but knew it was beyond my capabilities.
Posted By: 70_FJ6_RR
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/09/12 07:52 PM
Nice work! Glad to see an FJ6 Shaker car saved!
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/13/12 11:41 PM
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/16/12 09:30 PM
After mocking everything up and being happy with the fit and measurements I welded the rails in place. I added some beads on the inside, 8 plug welds didnt seem like much...
Before i Start Assembling the Front i want to do the Pillars, they were pretty Crusty...
The Under structure in the corners in going to need repaired as well. After the pillars are installed i will go back and take care of it, repairing it now would be risky since its the only part holding the corner together...
The Entire Pillars removed, cleaned and Spray with 3M weld thru...
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/16/12 09:34 PM
Posted By: kikgas01
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/16/12 10:22 PM
Yep, that is about as rusty(or was as rusty) as my Charger. You have some big gonads taking that on.Nice job.
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/23/12 11:33 PM
Alright Ive got some more updates for you guys. I had everything mocked up and the panels where the firewall is welded too needed a patch, so i took care of that...
Repaired...
Getting the the floor ready to install i mocked up some brackets to check their placement and fit...
Floor all ready to go it...
Installed...
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/23/12 11:44 PM
If you are wondering why i put the holes in the front lip of the floor its because it was easier to weld and grind to the firewall from the backside, the frame rail areas are always troublesome to clean up good...
Firewall welded up fitment is great...
Since i had the opportunity to get good coverage with paint on the firewall i did, sloppy factory style seem sealer applied as well...
I Then proceeded to mock up the front end again. Everything looks good! After clamping them in the inner fenders were 1/16" out of square with each other and the body. After a little tweaking everything looked good...
Now onto the next project...Replacing the shock towers...
Removed...
Thats all for now
Posted By: Anonymous
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/25/12 04:27 AM
Great work and coming a long quickly.
Posted By: JcodeCharger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/26/12 02:30 AM
Man, first your Super Bee now this Challenger? You really have some skill and a promising future in restorations, thats for sure.
Posted By: unknown
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/27/12 03:09 AM
Its really great all the parts are available for that car, It will be like a new car when its done.Keep up the good work.
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 05/07/12 12:26 AM
Thanks Guys
Some more updates...
I had to replace the pitted studs on firewall...
Frame repair Pics...
I Then Proceeded to clamp the cowl up...
Then Weld the cowl in along with shock towers...
Next up was the inner fenders...
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 05/07/12 12:33 AM
Posted By: Anonymous
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 05/07/12 11:03 AM
very, very impressive.
Posted By: aspenrt360
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 05/08/12 06:34 PM
Nice work! you put a lot of effort in and it shows. you are saving a cool car that a lot of folks would walk away from. good stuff
Posted By: AZMoparboy
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 05/20/12 04:57 PM
Hi there,
I see that you have been working very hard on your 71 Challenger. I have one too, but it is not as rusty as yours.
You are helping me so much with all of the pic's of your progress. My Challenger is not a numbers matching car either, with lots of small holes all over it. New fire wall, all floors, roof, a pillars, just to tell you the condition of it.
Looking forward to more of your progress and thanks for all of the time you have put into this thread.
Steve
Posted By: Pacnorthcuda
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 05/20/12 05:09 PM
"Restore the car back to its original options but making some performance upgrades"
VERY impressive work Stephen!!!
Since you're modding the car to 4-speed and disc brakes are you thinking of MAYBE going with a 440 instead of a 383?
Posted By: Scotts72Rallye
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 05/27/12 05:38 PM
Great work Steve,your becoming one helluva auto "reviver", someone who brings cars back from the dead! Hat's off to you!
Scott
Posted By: Dan Halen
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 05/27/12 09:57 PM
WOW, I am way too lazy to do something like that.....good thing there are guys like you out there.
Great job!
Posted By: Anonymous
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 06/05/12 03:29 PM
I love following this thread! Great work on your car! The pics are as good as the welding.
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 07/21/12 04:36 AM
Thanks Guys!
Sorry i haven't updated in awhile i have been very busy with work and getting things ready for Carlisle. The Super Bee was in building T this year i wanted to do some last minute things to make it look its best
Pacnorthcuda I believe it will go to a 440, many things are up in the air as of now but i am thinking that the build with be based off how it was from the factory with a modern twist (maybe an extra gear, 4 wheel discs, and upgraded factory stuff like a 440, dana, etc)
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 07/25/12 02:17 AM
Ill update whats been going on lately...
I mocked up the radiator before i welded the front back together. You can never be sure too much!!!
Welded and Removed...
Then i proceeded to mount the fenders for the first time to keep everything in line as i proceeds through the resto....
Now that the front end is basically done, i moved into the middle of the car which is by for the worst area due to the degree of rust. I Removed the roof...
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 07/25/12 02:23 AM
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 07/25/12 02:29 AM
Posted By: JS29R0B
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 07/25/12 01:22 PM
Man you have been hard at it.Awesome work!
Posted By: DPelletier
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 07/25/12 10:17 PM
you are a talented, hard working and patient dude!
Dave
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 10/22/12 01:33 PM
Hey Guys,
Its been awhile since an update, I have had a lot of stuff going. But anyways here we go...
I removed the drivers side rocker to find some serious damage...
Some patches required...
Mocking things up for fit...
Fabrication of Patch Panels
Installed...
Final results after install...
Now moving to the Passenger side...
The rocker Panel is not correct. It appears that they took the dimensions from the drivers side and just flipped them for the passenger side, which is just a bit longer (short on driver due to the floor/firewall difference by the high beam switch). I will have to stretch the part before installing...
Difference in original and repop...
Stay tuned...
Posted By: 68427vette
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 10/22/12 03:43 PM
what repo rocker did you buy? AMD? or goodmark? or other?
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 10/23/12 04:32 PM
68427vette The Rocker Panel is a Sherman Part. I havent heard if they updated things or not. I also do not know if other brands are giving the same problems...
Posted By: YYZ
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 10/27/12 01:25 PM
Keep up the great work!
As a '71 Challenger fan, I'm glad to see another one being brought back to life - especially a Shaker car in a cool colour!
Posted By: Benji
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 10/27/12 04:08 PM
I'm impressed! YOU da man.
I will do an automobile paraphrase of something General George Patton said about dead soldiers. We shouldn't mourn for the rustbucket cars, we should be thankful we have guys like HemiChallenger who can breathe new life into them.
Benji
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 10/27/12 04:32 PM
I am continually impressed and amazed at the level of work you're doing.
You have a talent for metal working that will get you far in life, keep it going!!
Posted By: Pacnorthcuda
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 10/27/12 04:43 PM
This thread is a jaw-dropper. Your fabrication skills are AMAZING. I can't help think that your skills could be better applied (I mean that in the best way) to a really high-end project.
Save a trashed hemicuda, wing car, AC Cobra, GT40, Ferrari Daytona etc. PLEASE!
This thread should be a BOOK, its that informative about what a talented human can achieve in his garage with skill and determination.
I'm in awe.
Posted By: Benji
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 10/27/12 09:19 PM
Quote:
This thread is a jaw-dropper. Your fabrication skills are AMAZING. I can't help think that your skills could be better applied (I mean that in the best way) to a really high-end project.
Save a trashed hemicuda, wing car, AC Cobra, GT40, Ferrari Daytona etc. PLEASE!
This thread should be a BOOK, its that informative about what a talented human can achieve in his garage with skill and determination.
I'm in awe.
I agree 100% and yet we have the naysayers that claim no one should attempt to resurrect these cars once they are this far gone but instead crush them. I say once they are gone, they are gone. Save 'em while they can be saved. 
Benji
Posted By: JDMopar
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 10/29/12 02:52 AM
Quote:
This thread is a jaw-dropper. Your fabrication skills are AMAZING. I can't help think that your skills could be better applied (I mean that in the best way) to a really high-end project.
Save a trashed hemicuda, wing car, AC Cobra, GT40, Ferrari Daytona etc. PLEASE!
This thread should be a BOOK, its that informative about what a talented human can achieve in his garage with skill and determination.
I'm in awe.
And this is a young man in his early to mid 20's at best!
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 10/30/12 03:01 PM
Thanks guys! I appreciate the compliments. If you can find me a ultra rare project let me know...
I Would love to do something like that...
Few more pics of update in the rocker area on the passenger side...
Before...
After...
Installed...
More pataches
Posted By: 69Cuda340S
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 10/31/12 02:45 AM
Outstanding metal work!!
Posted By: big-block-dave
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 10/31/12 06:32 AM
Following and very impressed!!! Is there a post on here showing the '71 Super Bee resto? I'd like to see that one also!
Posted By: 1Fryedfish
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 11/01/12 03:06 PM
Quote:
Following and very impressed!!! Is there a post on here showing the '71 Super Bee resto? I'd like to see that one also!
https://board.moparts.org/ubbthreads/show...e=3&fpart=1
There is a link to the bee he did
Posted By: aspenrt360
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 11/01/12 06:33 PM
the 71 bee post is still my favorite post on moparts
Posted By: dvw
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 11/11/12 02:14 PM
I've followed your threads. Very nice work. The one question I have is after doing all the work to the Challenger, how many dollars were spent on sheet metal alone? It had to be way more cost effective to start with a better shell. I could be wrong but sheet metal and paint look to be 15K in materials alone.
Doug
Posted By: 68_661charger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 11/13/12 10:08 PM
I can't speak for Stephen but yeah, in some cases it might be better to start with a better shell if you can locate one but I actually like this part of the process alot. I have a real rusty 69 Charger that I've had since HS that I'm determined to save so I can relate to the cause here. Great thread btw...
Posted By: aspenrt360
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 11/14/12 12:47 AM
sometimes it is just the chalenge of saving an old car that motivates folks. i did a duster up for an old buddy about 4 years ago he wanted that car so we went at it. about all that is really original on that car is the roof and one door but we had fun and made a cool car. the money was not the decding factor for him it was the sentimental value of the car.
Posted By: dvw
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 11/14/12 02:43 AM
Not saying I haven't done it myself. A six cylinder Duster 340 clone no less. It is a lot of fun, just not very cost effective. My latest project used an entire roll of mig wire. With no good patch panels available I had to fabricate the patches. No where near unambitious as the Challenger. Good luck. And again impressive work.
Doug
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 11/15/12 08:17 PM
dvw Let say you take two cars, Car A is this car, a rusted 71 383 R/T Shaker car. Car B is a standard east coast car of same options, needing quarters, fenders, floors, firwall and cowl etc.
Price calculations...
Car A: Cost of car $3000 Cost of sheetmetal $12000 Total $15000
Car B: Cost of car $9000 Cost of sheetmetal $6000 Total $15000
Now were talking rough estimates here but i can tell you that those are real figure based off of a car i sold and this car. The cost is going to be roughly the same, yes you might be better off finding a "better canidate" but find me another 71 challenger R/T 383 shaker car is FJ6 in better shape. I highly doubt you could find another. At the end of the day your going to be looking at similar figures on both shells. So cost to me i dont see much of a difference unless your paying a restoration shop $75 and hour. At that point yes your looking at potentially a $10,000 difference.
At the end of the restoration of this car there is going to be one more Challenger saved and on the road, not melted down to become a Toyota Prius.
Posted By: 70440+6bbl
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 11/15/12 09:20 PM
Quote:
At the end of the restoration of this car there is going to be one more Challenger saved and on the road, not melted down to become a Toyota Prius.
And that is what it is all about, well said
Posted By: aspenrt360
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 11/16/12 01:53 AM
i have to ask, do you enjoy the work? i know i do, sure i get burn't out from time to time but i get a real feeling of satisfaction from saving these cool old car's
Posted By: 67446DART
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 11/17/12 02:08 AM
Quote:
i have to ask, do you enjoy the work? i know i do, sure i get burn't out from time to time but i get a real feeling of satisfaction from saving these cool old car's
I am glad peolpe save cars like this!!
There needs to be a trophy for such work!
...and to think, some folks are content with laying on the couch all day.
Carry on
Posted By: YYZ
Re: Wow! - 11/17/12 02:46 PM
At one time I would have thought that the extent of this work was a bit crazy (not that I haven't fixed rustbuckets) and logic still dictates that you try to find as clean a shell as possible.
However, E-bodies were moisture traps: even cars from very dry climates will often have damaged trunk floors, extensions, lower quarters and dutchman panels. So one may wind up replacing much of the same metal anyway.
Given the extensive amount of high-quality reproduction sheetmetal available now it enables a hobbyist to buy a car reasonably and to end up with a shell as good or better than new over time.
Again, I'm enjoying the progress on this one and can't wait for the next update!
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 11/19/12 12:05 AM
Thanks Guys! Yes i do enjoy doing this, there is many highs and lows though. Things are good and then there is more rust, and that pattern continues. When its all done its the ultimate achievement, to be able to look at the pictures from before, during, and then to look at the car, well its satisfying.
Anyways, back to some pics...
I have to make extensive repairs to front end door jamb. As you can see much of the panel is missing...
After repairs...
Now since the car was wrecked we had many issues with the inside webbing on the drivers side. The webbing was mangled and pushed in from wreck. The door jamb was really hacked up to make the door fit originally. This shows the issue...
Before I also had to modify to rocker, the bend where slightly off and not level...
Then i started the webbing repair by making some repair panels...
Before...
Part made...
Installed...
Thats all for now...
Posted By: Anonymous
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 11/19/12 11:20 PM
Nice work, keep it up. I agree it is very satisfying after the work is complete.
Posted By: mopar383
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 11/24/12 04:55 AM
Nice work
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 11/25/12 03:29 AM
Posted By: AAR#2
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 11/25/12 05:53 PM
Wow, I've been watching along in silence for some time . . . . incredible !
Now for some questions . . .
1) Please tell me your dad is a body shop guy who couldn't afford daycare for you in the early days, forced you to learn a trade at the age of 5 and you have 15 years experience at the start of this project (it would help me to feel better about my capabilities and ambition)
2) Does anyone help you think through your repairs at this point in your work (refer to Q1 above perhaps, or another mentor?)
3) It appears the start car was more of a rolling Jig for you to get pickup points and a roadmap, how many pieces are really going to be the original car when your done? (maybe guess a percentage, and please dont read into this, it's really just a curiosity question)
4) Whoever your mentor is should be commended and thanked, not many your age have the knowledge, ambition, facilities, or financial backing to do what your doing.
I have a good friend thats been a mentor to me, reading through your posts has reminded me to express my appreciation for all he has done.
Take care, and good luck wiith the rest of your project.
Posted By: Stevo427
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 11/25/12 10:01 PM
Wow holy crap that's a good project right there. Just curious what kind of primer are you using over your repairs?
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 11/25/12 11:17 PM
AAR#2 1) Please tell me your dad is a body shop guy who couldn't afford daycare for you in the early days, forced you to learn a trade at the age of 5 and you have 15 years experience at the start of this project (it would help me to feel better about my capabilities and ambition)
I really wish that was the case here. The truth is i taught myself how to do things by browsing the web, buying the right tools, making mistakes and learning from them. I then landed a welding job which enhanced my skills with metal and welding. When it comes to body work and painting, i owe all of that to a local old timer who i would go to his place after high school and work on projects of his for free in exchange for knowledge.
2) Does anyone help you think through your repairs at this point in your work (refer to Q1 above perhaps, or another mentor?)
No, I honestly spend countless hours thinking of the best and easiest approach to everything. A lot of thinking comes before cutting and then welding. I know the body of these cars inside and out which helps as well.
3) It appears the start car was more of a rolling Jig for you to get pickup points and a roadmap, how many pieces are really going to be the original car when your done? (maybe guess a percentage, and please dont read into this, it's really just a curiosity question)
This is very true, and no offense is taken. When the car is done, i would guess your looking at 10% of the original metal being present. In other words its going to be 90% new metal will last longer. I salvaged the original cowl and rad support, since it had the numbers on it, and the inner webbing of the vehicle.
Stevo427 The Primer that i use in the welding and structural areas that will be covered is 3M weld-thru 2. Its the best product that i have found. Easily welds, unlike others that are galvanizing compound, this does not spit and spatter and blow holes in the clean metal. Its also a corrosion resistant coating that is great in areas that are covered. You can get them in aerosals, but its not cheap about $20 a can.
Posted By: clonedshaker+6
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 11/27/12 03:07 AM
so how many spot welds do 71 challenger have
hahaha you have seemed to cut them all out
im in the process of restoring a 71 challenger as well (my HS graduation present 440sixpack shaker CLONE)
keep up the good work, cant wait to see it done
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 11/28/12 12:54 AM
Alright guys a few updates for you...
I mocked up the rails and two cross members. Fit was pretty good on the parts, a few areas needed addressing...
The inside of the one rail was not straight, easy fix...
Fixed...
Rails and cross members installed...
Keep Tuned...
Posted By: OhioMopar
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 11/28/12 02:47 AM
Very impressive. You are really coming along.
Posted By: 68427vette
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 11/28/12 04:55 AM
i had to re-breeze through the thread,, when i saw the first photos on page one and NOTICED your shaker firewall hole!! then later you stated it is a "71 challenger R/T 383 shaker car in FJ6" Did Tai get you on the N96 list? and FT? BS?
my EL5 71 N96 is about this bad also! but will be saved, love this thread!!
make sure you drill that hole right...
and yes, ive had many who think i'm crazy for saving my 71 EL5 car...
Posted By: 69Cuda340S
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 11/29/12 04:55 AM
Excellent skills and workmanship there.
Posted By: wally426ci
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 11/29/12 01:34 PM
The work that you're doing is amazing. I know you get about 1 in 3 responses like that but I had to say it. Since we're both on the east coast, what is your method of treating the rust since you're are dealing with such a rusty shell to begin with? Also, are you an epoxy primer kind of guy or etching?
I ask because there will come a time when I break my 71 back down and do it right. I'll aspire to get results like yours to the best of my abilities.
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 11/29/12 08:16 PM
Etching primer is what i use. To properly use expoxy you have to use etch before and it seems like a waste of money if your not going to stowe the car in a corner for a few years. Of course you will have to re etch and apply 2k primer when its gets to the point of body work. But for the time being with the car indoors and constantly being worked i go with etch. There is a huge debate with the two but if you do it right with etch and cover it right after you will be fine
Posted By: cudaman440_1
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 12/01/12 01:40 AM
Hey Stephen,Very nice work your doing.can you give me some tips on welding sheet metal with a mig.like wire size,wire speed,arc voltage,range setting.This is my first time welding sheet metal and you look like a good guy to ask.
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 12/04/12 03:40 AM
cudaman440_1 Check your PM's I sent you some basic info...
I did some more work, first had to repair the rail/rocker part...
Repaired...
Rear Butt Pan Drilled and Ready to go in...
Installed...
Rear Floor Pans Installed...
Trunk Braced Installed on new trunk Pan...
Trunk Floor Laid in Ready to be welded...
Thats All for now!
Posted By: wally426ci
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 12/04/12 01:01 PM
Excellent.
How are you treating the rusty metal that will remain? IE: not rotten, surface rust.
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 12/09/12 05:37 PM
wally426ci Any surface rust that remains will be blasted, and cleaned inside and out. then covered with etch and 2k prim, then into paint, im holding off on that until i have replaced all parts in or around the area of rust, will only be the inner webbing of vehicle really. Which will all be blasted, or has if it was covered and it was given weld thru primer until it can be entirely blasted and prepped for paint...
Steve
Posted By: LVSRT10
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 12/18/12 06:49 PM
I have no words to describe how awestruck I am by this. I have lived in the desert my whole life, and can tell you back in the day we parted out cars that were FAR less rusty than this because we thought they were too far gone. Your skills and patience are commendable.
--Jeff
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 01/01/13 11:36 PM
Hey Guys been awhile since an update, been pretty busy lately, been working on some other things. Anyways...
Been working on the wheelhouses and trunk extensions, A lot of work went into making these things fit, The trunk extensions fit well, but the wheel tubs inner and out are very poor...
Tubs welded together, seat belt bracket installed. The holes that are pre punched were even close. They were an inch plus off, and thats not including have to cut new metal to make them work
Installed...
Now the passenger side i remembered to take pics of the modifications. The tubs are too long, pushing the trunk extensions down. Therefore the quarters do no fit. It was not too bad to fix, just extra work
I had some rust to fix before on the seat belt bracket and the webbing...
Tubs and trunk extension installed and modified...
Thats all for now, getting close
Posted By: aspenrt360
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 01/02/13 12:47 AM
you must get an amazing feeling of satisfaction as you see and feel it coming together! really nice work
Posted By: superbeeman69
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 01/02/13 01:35 AM
I'm watching this with extreme enthusiasm
my 70 FM3 challenger is at least this bad. Could you PM me basic info on the jigging used and placement? What im worried about is the car folding in on itself or not able to be placed on a jig like that, BUT my frame rails and torsion mount are just as bad as yours were so maybe I'm wrong. Have all your measurements stayed true throughout the process? I'm a body tech by trade and what you are doing and I am facing, is daunting, even to me. Keep it up! Awesome job bud from one young gun to another!
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 01/09/13 12:45 AM
Thanks Guys...
Been working on the tail panel...Boy i wish that had reproduction ones!
Sadly the best that we could find to replace ours, was still bad...
Lower flange made...
Sides redone, all blended, and blasted...
Primed...
I went ahead and mocked it up, everything fits very well now i just need to bend the floors up to weld...
What it will and should look like (for those who do not know)
Posted By: bschargerse
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 01/09/13 02:50 AM
Hey Steve! Happy New Year and great work!!! I've been silently following along. If you decide to keep the car 383 powered as original, I have a 71 383 HP short block. It was remanufactured by a rebuilder years ago, its .040 with a steel crank, and doesn't have a lot of miles on it, but should be gone thru. I'm not sure what it came out of, but its a 71 block. If you are interested in it, let me know. For you the price is cheap.
Oh, and my 69 Charger is still awaiting your skills
Posted By: clonedshaker+6
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 01/09/13 03:38 AM
i feel the exact same way i wish they repoduce the 71 tail light panel, i also had to replace my panel it was rotted which wasnt bad but it was so bent from me car getting hit directly where the quarter meets the tail light panel finding a good panel is rare.
car is looking good
Posted By: JDMopar
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 01/09/13 04:29 AM
Looking like it's getting down to the short rows on metal replacement. You kinda lost me on the "bend the floors up to weld" thing. Does the trunk pan protrude that far out from under the tail panel? If so,are all Challengers like that, or just 71's? I guess I'm lucky that I've never had to deal with what you have on this car!
Posted By: 68KillerBee
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 01/09/13 12:50 PM
Quote:
Hey Steve! Happy New Year and great work!!! I've been silently following along. If you decide to keep the car 383 powered as original, I have a 71 383 HP short block. It was remanufactured by a rebuilder years ago, its .040 with a steel crank, and doesn't have a lot of miles on it, but should be gone thru. I'm not sure what it came out of, but its a 71 block. If you are interested in it, let me know. For you the price is cheap.
Oh, and my 69 Charger is still awaiting your skills
I think the guy has a drive train in place for it. Should be a beast.
Still amazed with the work you do on these cars.
Posted By: wally426ci
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 01/09/13 01:28 PM
Great work as always. I am learning alot about the inner workings of sheet metal on my car by watching your build.
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 01/11/13 03:20 PM
bschargerse Hey Brian, thanks for the offer but the motor plans have already been taken care of. Check you PM's on Charger...
JDMopar All the challengers are this way, the floors get folded up (as seen in the second pic. If you look at the tailpanel its no where near strait...
Its getting close for sure, I'll be very happy once all this metal work is done
Posted By: JDMopar
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 01/12/13 05:04 AM
Thanks Steve. I went downstairs and moved some junk from around my 70 A66 Challenger, and was able to see it better. I have to put a trunk floor in that car, so thanks for showing that detail.
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 01/16/13 01:39 AM
Hey Guys a little bit of an update for you. I pulled the rear speaker tray to get better access to straighten and blast...
The damage...
Blasted and looking like new...
We had no braces so i pulled some from a donor car out back...
I proceeded to mock the entire back end up to check out how all the panels fit together, Overall its not to bad, will need some small tweaking...
Good gaps after some quick tweaks...
Now The decklid is a whole different story, its bad. I initially put it on but then swapped out for an original. You can actually fell the difference on the passenger side, youll see why below...
Original...
The repop...
Keep Tuned
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 01/19/13 01:56 AM
Were getting close!
I pulled the hinges apart to blast, then rewelded...
Deck Filler Installed...
After installing deck filler placed hinges into place...
Then proceeded to install tail panel, bent floor up just like factory...
Almost There!
Going to take the car off of the Jig tomorrow, this way i can properly install the Quarters. I can not install the rear valance the way that the jig is designed. Before ya know it well be on the rotisserie
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 01/23/13 02:22 AM
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 02/16/13 04:33 AM
Posted By: Anonymous
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 02/16/13 07:07 AM
Holy ding Dang that was quick, looks great from my end.
Posted By: OhioMopar
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 02/16/13 01:52 PM
Wow!
Impressive.
Posted By: clonedshaker+6
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 02/20/13 01:07 AM
looks awsome
are you using a flip top gas cap? if you are you might want to check fitment both my original and repro flip tops dont fit the new AMD quarter, the part that cap sits in is not recessed enough. i know another guy that the same thing happened to so you might want to check that and compare to an original quarter before you do any body work
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 02/20/13 02:44 PM
Thanks Guys! I have heard of the issues with the AMD quarters for the flip top. I am going to mock everything up on the car before body work...
Steve
Posted By: aspenrt360
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 02/23/13 10:05 PM
that looks awesome! that car is lucky to have ended up with you.
Posted By: Rocpar
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 02/24/13 05:29 AM
Excellent work Steve! I spoke to Pete today at the Columbus meet.
Posted By: Sunroofcuda
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 03/04/13 12:04 AM
Quote:
Sorry guys, wasn't trying to "rant". Just wanted somebody else's opinion. I got it. With an explanation point.
Going to the general now to see if someone over their will kick me in the nuts too.
Craig, I'm with you. I would have re-bodied this Challenger in a heartbeat & not told anybody about it, & ended up with a better result. But Stephen, I commend you for cutting & welding this thing back together. '71 Bee looks great - I donated parts for that project - parts I had saved for many years for my never even started '71 Hemi Charger that burned up.
-Eric
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 03/06/13 02:51 PM
Posted By: bschargerse
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 03/15/13 10:51 PM
Very impressive Steve!!!
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 03/23/13 02:54 AM
Thanks Brian!
Small update of some pics. Nothing too exciting going on right now, just sanding
Torque Boxes Installed with hand built frame connectors...
Console Brackets Installed...
Bottom prepped for prime....
Leading Seems...
Thats all for now
Posted By: larry4406
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 03/23/13 12:06 PM
Very nice work. Address the e-brake cable & adjuster rod interference with the frame connectors before you get too far.
Posted By: suzkat110
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 03/23/13 03:47 PM
mate... I am loving this thread... thanks so much for posting!
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 03/28/13 05:23 PM
Thanks Guys! I will be addressing the issues surrounding the the e brake cables...
Yesterday was a great day, we now have the motor built and dynoed. It sounds great and the best pull was 540HP/500TRQ....
Posted By: 69Cuda340S
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 03/30/13 03:26 AM
Awesome work!!
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/16/13 10:03 PM
Thanks!
Not much to post pictures over right now... a lot of sanding going on. I will post up some pics after i have a few worth posting!
Steve
Posted By: a12superbee
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 04/17/13 09:40 AM
Awesome, I'm jealous of what some of you guys can accomplish.
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 05/07/13 08:06 PM
Thanks man! I will be posting up some more pics here shortly!
Steve
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 05/11/13 01:40 PM
Ok guys i finally got around to putting up some pics. I have more on some of the mods we have made but i will post those up later...
Mocking up e brake cables to make slots in frame connectors...
Inside prepped then painted...
Trunk prepped and painted...
Bottom prepped and painted...
Thats all for now... I'll put more up shortly on some of the mods that have been done...
Steve
Posted By: Anonymous
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 05/11/13 02:01 PM
WOW!
Looking good.
Posted By: Bill_T
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 05/11/13 06:04 PM
What did you use for seam sealer?
Amazing work. Car was past saving IMO and you resurrected it.
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 05/12/13 02:12 PM
Thanks guys. The seal sealer is Transtar Ultra Flex seam sealer (brush kind). I have been using it one all my projects. It very easy to work with but sets up fast so you have to move fast.
Posted By: aspenrt360
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 05/13/13 12:47 PM
now that you have some colour on it does that motivate you more?
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 06/12/13 02:07 PM
Posted By: Anonymous
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 06/12/13 03:21 PM
Damn!!!!!!!
That's looking mighty fine there young fella. Has your customer seen the car at this stage?
Posted By: RSNOMO
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 06/12/13 04:54 PM
Quote:
i still gotta make it perfect
That statement is certainly reflected in your work...
Good to see the word conviction is still known in some circles...
Posted By: aspenrt360
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 06/13/13 02:31 PM
that is going to rock with that hemi in it!
Posted By: bdusted440
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 06/14/13 07:06 AM
Wicked impressed!!!!!!!!! It's inspired me to rotisserie my car.
Posted By: renegade0131
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 06/14/13 01:45 PM
Looking good Steve! Can't wait to see it up close when I visit you in a few weeks.
Posted By: a12superbee
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 06/15/13 03:56 AM
Talent always makes it looks easy.
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 06/17/13 03:24 PM
Thanks for all the compliments guys, im glad you like it. I'm glad we're in the homestrech with the body...What a long road it has been!
Superfreak Yes, the customer sees the car quite often as he does not live to terribly far from me. He's excited to see the car coming back together...
Posted By: chargervert
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 06/18/13 02:30 PM
Great work Steve. You saved that one. You might want to dry fit the gas cap and trim ring,(if you are using a flip top cap) before paint. There are fitment issues on the repop quarters when using flip top caps. Make sure you fit it with the filler tube in place. Pete
Posted By: Silver70
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 06/18/13 07:18 PM
I'm curious to why you painted the underside, inside and so on before doing the exterior body work/primer. Now you have to mask it off multiple times, be a lot more careful and take a lot more time in doing so.
Looks good though
Posted By: 68_661charger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 06/19/13 04:00 AM
I thought this was a car you were doing for yourself? Either way great job.
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 06/20/13 03:48 PM
chargervert Thanks! I already checked out the flip top fitment issues. I dont know if i got lucky or what, but mine fit just fine, compared it with an original quarter and its just fine
Silver70 Even though i painted everything its going to have a minimal effect on everything else. Ill assembly it once, fix all our problems and then disassemble for priming. I would still have to mask everything off either way, so i didnt really see it as a problem...
paironines At one point my dad owned the car, but he sold it to the gentleman that i am doing the car for. Now we wish we had it back
Posted By: tpabayflyer
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 07/07/13 09:19 PM
Nice work....... Keep us posted! TBF
Posted By: UCUDANT
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 07/07/13 10:25 PM
Glad to see you're still at it, amazing work
Posted By: bschargerse
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 07/17/13 01:46 AM
Hey Steve, I just put up a pole building in my yard so I can drag my Charger home. We have an extra bedroom...
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 07/29/13 06:54 PM
Thanks guys! Sorry updates have been not around, i have been very busy with carlisle and some other stuff that has been going on. Ill post up some stuff shortly...
Steve
Posted By: BulletBob
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 08/01/13 06:56 AM
That's good work
Posted By: rocksmopar
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 10/23/13 12:57 PM
Any Progress?
Need to see more.....
Posted By: demon1515
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 10/31/13 04:18 AM
Wow amazing job.
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 11/29/13 06:33 AM
Hey guys, i know its been quite some time since my last post. Progress is still underway, although its been slow. Between moving shops, changes being made on the cars design, and an injury it has set me back quite some time. But now everything has been set in stone and will be working on her! I have a few pics on the computer that i will post, just some of the parts restoration...
Reinforced the K frame by welding her up solid...
Made up some gussets and boxed in some areas...
Made up a skid plate...
Had several parts powder coated, the k frame color was going to be silver but is now going to be black (one of the many changes in design i was talking about)...
Dash assembly fully restored, still waiting of a few parts and pieces...
Steering column restored and ready for reinstall...
Ill get ya guys some more pics of the car here shortly, like i said a lot of things have been going on lately so progress was minimal. Now that everything has been sorted out will be back on her. Hoping to have color by the new year...
Steve
Posted By: haddixj
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 01/24/14 10:04 PM
just read through the whole project, looks great. I am curious how you go about making a new patch panel. Do you use a hammer and dolley for most of the odd shapes or a brake? How do you get the holes in the panels so nice? body saw and grinder to clean them up?
Posted By: 69Cuda340S
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 02/08/14 11:38 PM
Looks great!
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 05/04/14 05:47 PM
Hey guys! Sorry for the lack of posting. A lot of things changed on what we were doing to the car. We decided to go back to factory heat, factory 4 speed, along with some other changes in the car. But anyways I have two pictures with more to follow.
Before we painted the car we mocked up the motor, clearance was in issue on the pass shock tower so it had to be modified...
Here's a pic right after i painted the car. Many more pics to follow...
We are planning to finish this car for Carlisle this year. It will be in my booth and you guys can check it out in person!
Steve
Posted By: new bee
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 05/05/14 08:17 AM
There may not be a lot of original metal left on this Challenger, but your post makes a perfect case for restoring these cars. Had it been scrapped or parted, there would be one less Challenger out there.
Nice work!
Posted By: patcharger1973
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 05/06/14 12:17 PM
Been waiting to see how your progress was going. It astounds me the quality of work you have done in your own back yard shop and at your age. This thread inspired me to tear into my 73 charger a little deeper and when I did I found much of the same issues, unfortunately repop parts aren't as available so I've been fabricating and hitting yards and have managed to modify some challenger parts. Keep up the good work, look forward to the next update!
Posted By: 1972CudaV21
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 05/10/14 01:06 AM
Great work! Did you try to duplicate any factory welds for appearance? No biggie, just wondering...
Posted By: patcharger1973
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 05/10/14 04:39 AM
From what I can tell Steve tried to mimic the factory welds, I am trying to but as repop isn't avalible for basicaly the entire front of the car I can only do so much where many parts are made from scratch
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 05/15/14 12:25 AM
Thanks guys! As far as duplicating spot welds we did not decide to do so. It looks cleaner without them and quite frankly considing almost every weld was drilled out we would be duplicating for very long time. Been cutting and buffing pics soon
Posted By: 1fastrunner
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 05/15/14 04:20 AM
Can't wait to see it Steve, my car could use some of your love.
Posted By: aspenrt360
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 05/18/14 02:17 AM
Looks really great so far!
Posted By: fez340
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 05/18/14 08:05 AM
your work is outstanding! great job. i really enjoyed reading your posts so far
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 05/18/14 12:59 PM
Thanks guys! its getting exciting to put it together now!
50 days Until the car needs to be ready for carlisle!
Blacked out the tail panel..
Few pics of the paint...
First items to go on...Trunk Hinge and weather strip..
Working on getting her on 4 wheels again. Got he rear in place and the wheels are a perfect fit. The 15x10's are tucked in looks close to factory
More pics soon
Posted By: patcharger1973
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 05/18/14 06:30 PM
Looks awesome Steve! I'm still awestruck at how you turned such a rotten heap into such a beautiful car, hope I can make my 73 charger look the same one day! Keep up the good work and keep the posts coming, always look forward to seeing your updates!
Posted By: clonedshaker+6
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 05/20/14 12:15 AM
car looks awesome, cant wait until mine has paint on it
and I don't know if you are going to or already done but the black out behind the grille on the rad support if left green it will stick out like a sore thumb
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 05/20/14 01:37 PM
Posted By: jt4406
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 05/20/14 04:06 PM
The car looks GREAT!! I can relate to the work required to get to the level you have your car. An FYI for you, if you haven't gotten to it yet, you will have to clearance your rear valance if you have offset rear spring hangers (it appears from the pics that you have the same as I put on my car, Dr. Diff's b body rear into e body kit??) If so, here's a pic of what I did....
jess
Posted By: JS23M51
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 05/21/14 03:36 AM
Hey Steve its Greg. Its been a while, good to see your back posting pics of your progress on this one. Very impressed with your work and dedication to building a car all the way from beginning to end. Sure hope you can find some time to work on some of your own projects soon. That's what will have me on the edge of my seat, literally. Rock on !!!
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 05/25/14 04:28 PM
Thanks i already checked the valance and it fits fine. Greg, im excited to start on your car too!
43 Days Till Deadline Things are coming along, missing some parts so going a little out of order...
Rear end finished, brakes bled...
Had more than enough helpers to put the motor in
Thats all for now
Posted By: bschargerse
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 05/31/14 08:15 PM
Steve,
That looks great! Looking forward to Carlisle!
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 06/12/14 12:10 AM
Thanks Brian! We only have
26 days until she needs loaded up for carlisle!!!
We have had some parts come in damaged or not at all holding us up from doing things in a normal fashion. But we should be getting those items in shortly.
Ran The headers then exhaust boy was that a nightmare with the 3" pipes...
Heater box before and after...
Inside prepped for dash...
Thats all for now folks!
Posted By: 68KillerBee
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 06/13/14 08:30 PM
I know you say it will be in your booth, no chance of getting it judged??
My parents will be up there, so I'll send my dad searching for you and the car. Hopefully I make it to the nationals, will it be there? Keep up the awesome work.
Very promising career ahead of you if you go that route.
edit: you could really
entering it into the young guns section (if that section is still alive even). hah. if not that, what car/cars will you be planning on having at the nationals?
Posted By: 1Fryedfish
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 06/15/14 06:05 AM
Quote:
I know you say it will be in your booth, no chance of getting it judged??
My parents will be up there, so I'll send my dad searching for you and the car. Hopefully I make it to the nationals, will it be there? Keep up the awesome work. Very promising career ahead of you if you go that route.
edit: you could really entering it into the young guns section (if that section is still alive even). hah. if not that, what car/cars will you be planning on having at the nationals?
The car is going to be at the swap spot a few rows down for building T.
you want a buddy pass to come to Carlisle? We have a few empty campspots...haha
Dave
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 06/25/14 03:41 AM
Posted By: aspenrt360
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 06/26/14 04:07 AM
That is looking amazing! really nice work! with the glass going in and a headliner it must be starting to feel like a car again!
Posted By: sogtx
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 06/26/14 04:21 AM
Looks sweet !
Posted By: wally426ci
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 06/26/14 01:01 PM
Looks and sounds amazing. I am excited to see it at the show and dream about you guys going over mine.
Posted By: hemi68charger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 06/26/14 01:36 PM
Wow !!! That is going to be SWEET !!!!!
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 06/30/14 10:44 PM
Posted By: mattsmopars
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 07/01/14 02:21 PM
This thing just keeps looking better!
Matt
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 07/04/14 07:01 PM
Glad to see it getting finished! Looks like you'll make your deadline, congrats! Quite a transformation going from page one to page 5. You do incredible work!
Posted By: HemiChallenger
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 07/08/14 11:48 PM
Posted By: 69Cuda340S
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 07/14/14 08:35 PM
Wow that car looks great!
Posted By: 1970Dart3406
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 07/15/14 12:17 AM
Car looked awesome in person at Carlisle this past weekend! Great job!
Posted By: EK2Runner
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 07/15/14 03:19 AM
Steve , Good Meeting you this weekend . That car lived up to expectations , if not better . Get that MSD box ?
Mike
Posted By: renegade0131
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 08/07/14 01:12 AM
Looking forward to seeing the car in Columbus this weekend!!!
Posted By: patcharger1973
Re: Project Rust Bucket: 1971 Challenger R/T - 08/09/14 06:26 PM
That car came out incredible Steve, what's the next project going to be?
