So I am starting a new thread to sort of keep everything centralized on my moparts posting. I'm in the process of finally assembling my convertible after having it sit, painted, for over 3 years. I've been busting my hump getting things done, today I finally mated the engine and trans and have them resting on a cradle, ready to lower the car onto it (working at a dealership is great! hello lift-access!)
Re: My project thread (constantly updated) - 06/19/1009:51 PM
And here's another angle. on Monday while on my breaktime at work, I'm going to install the power steering lines, headers, and carb. And the day after I'll get the valves adjusted, oil pump primed, and distributor properly set into position. Little details here and there to button up. I've got to get it in position so I can mark where to make the hole for the shifter (keisler 5 speed conversion kit)
Re: My project thread (constantly updated) - 06/21/1004:45 PM
For those who haven't seen it, here's a few shots of the paintwork.
As you can see, we went full custom with the paint. Everything we did started with "You know what would look cool?" The fire on the hood and the more cartoon-like bird was my idea, the fire dust trail was my painter's idea.
Re: My project thread (constantly updated) - 06/21/1009:23 PM
It's close to being able to run. Just about 10 minutes ago I lowered the car onto the engine/trans (well, real close anyways) so I can check fore/aft alignment and mark where I need to make the hole for the shifter.
Tomorrow I'll take the seats out, and cut the hole, and then work on that little plate that keisler provides.
I'm hoping to be able to fire it here in a few weeks.
Running/driving, and only needing trim work by the end of the summer.
Re: 1970 Plymouth RR Conv Custom Project - 06/22/1011:09 AM
Quote: Haha! I knewwwww what it was before I opened the thread!!!!! I've seen it before and still like it just as much as the first time I saw it. Awesome.
Thanks man, it just feels great to work on the car and make this kind of progress.
Unemployment, Divorce, Bankruptcy, and Depression got in the way of this project (not necessarily in that order).
AWESOME is an understatement. I too like the realistic style flames. It is amazing how guys can do that {stencils or not}. I'm surprised you say you won't do the install that way again. I thought it was the easiest way when I had my Barracuda. Don't haveta worry about the paint job either.
You are doing a GREAT job with this ride. I can't wait to see it finished either..Keep at it..
Looks bitchin and its great to see progress again! Its good to know you and the car made it through some tough times together. I'm sure seeing it come together is the best therapy you can find. Keep up the great work, that car will be in several magazines once its finishined!
Re: 1970 Plymouth RR Conv Custom Project - 07/11/1012:40 AM
Took lots of bending, smacking, more bending, and testing, bending, testing again, etc. and I finally got the keisler patch panel spotted in place. I sprayed it with weld through primer, but actually painted the bottom of the panel with some black paint so I wouldn't have to go back in a touch it up.. made life much easier
Re: 1970 Plymouth RR Conv Custom Project - 07/11/1012:43 AM
And finally got some paint on it, I'll go back over it tomorrow on top and bottom with seam sealer to finish it off.
I also painted and installed the factory-missing (cause it didn't have dual exhaust from the factory) left side exhaust hanger for the left muffler. That was an easy one, the dimples for the holes were already in the floor!
Re: 1970 Plymouth RR Conv Custom Project - 07/15/1011:23 AM
Haven't gotten much done in the last few days, except working on getting my gas tank painted and ready to install. The inside of it is super clean. Under the tank pad I found a mopar sticker dated 1996, so I guess that answered the question if the tank was original or not. And I'm glad it was an OEM tank and not an aftermarket replacement.
I also pulled out the shifter, and just had to bolt it in place, so I can dream of
Quote: Your car is turning out awesome man! I am so glad to see that you are able to keep it and things are working out for you! Paul.
Me too man!
The driveshaft showed up yesterday (from keisler). I'm gonna pull the 3rd member tomorrow and put in a new seal, and get that buttoned up, and put the driveshaft in, and start mocking the exhaust up (got a cool stainless steel exhaust!)
Been a little while since I posted any updates. I've got the gas tank cleaned, painted, and installed (with new stainless steel straps). Also removed the 3rd member for cleaning and inspecting and reinstalled with a new gasket
I got the rear brake lines cut and flanged for the rear wilwood discs. I have the flex lines installed and the brake calipers painted and ready, I'm going to pull out the old inner axle seals today and install new ones and then button up the rear brakes/axles between today and tomorrow here at work
I got them in securely, but the rear discs do not fit properly. they hit the shoulder on the wheel studs that protrudes from the axle shaft flange about 1/8" ugh.. It's always something..
No pics yet, but I loosely installed my Pypes exhaust (X pipe system). Very nice system, but the pipes between the header collector and the X pipe don't match up to the header collector (bad angle). I'm going to have to get a local exhaust shop bend me a new pair of those at the right angle so I can button it up.
I don't have any exhaust tips for now, I'll worry about that after it's able to run and drive.
It's actually fitting well, except the angle to the header collector. So I'm going to have a local exhaust shop make me new collector extensions to work for it..
So I lost my storage at work (stupid HR got on our case about employee cars at work). So it's now home in my newly set up garage. Boy did I have to get creative with everything, but it all fits!
Quote: You should invest in some car skates, that way you can move the car around easily.
Still looking good BTW!
I have a set, but the car is centered in the garage where I want it, and if I need space I can push it out and put it back in. And it's all nice and covered up now, with some moving blankets ontop of the car cover in strategic spots to protect it from children...
So I finally took the heater box apart today... Good lord was it nasty!! I cleaned the case good, and the metal parts, well, I need to sandblast them. Gotta get some time here soon to get to my buddy's to use his blast cabinet.. nasty!
Does anyone make a heater box resto kit with new screws and seals??
Detroit Muscle Technologies make a great resto kit. Not sure if he has the screws. He is a member here and also sells the kits on Ebay. If you do an EBay search for "DMT heater box" you will find his stuff. Good luck!
As I wait for the heater box parts (and the fact that I need to visit my buddy next week and use his blast cabinet to clean up the metal parts from the heater box), I decided to look at putting together my vent window frames (I dismantled them to have them rechromed).
I need to pick up the epoxy today and some clamps and get to reassembling! I polished the brightwork that's for the vertical window channel and laid it all out ready to assemble..
So I'm all over the place with little parts and bits I'm working on right now.
I got a wild hair up my rear last night and cleaned my heater box shell further and I shot it with some satin black paint (It's actually VTH brand black brake caliper paint, tough stuff!!!). It came out looking brand new!!
I can't wait to put it back together when I get my seals, and if I can find my new heater core! DOH!
And I used some silver wheel paint for the silver/bare finished panels, these are't visible, so I really have no idea why I didn't paint them black, oh well, just to be different??
Mixed the stuff up (2 hour set time) and gooped it into the channel after cleaning both gluing surfaces with denatured alcohol. First set in place and clamped together
Other side.. Gonna have to clean them up some more after it's all set. This epoxy stinks!! I won't touch them for about 24 hours or more, to ensure it's fully cured.
Quote: Other side.. Gonna have to clean them up some more after it's all set. This epoxy stinks!! I won't touch them for about 24 hours or more, to ensure it's fully cured.
Feels good to get something accomplished!
Never thought of that. Using the epoxy. Mine are at the chromer. I'll do the same when I get them back
Boy I just had a wild hair up my rear end and got some more stuff done after posting those last few pics. I forgot I had my latches from my buddy who had them and I didn't know it, so I got those installed just now on both doors (along with the convertible door wedge thingies).
They were all replated, and are so nice! Glad I spent money on the car when I had it! Took 2 tries and I had the doors adjusted just right, they close real nice!
Re: 1970 Plymouth RR Conv Custom Project - 03/23/1112:26 AM
That clear plastic your talkin about is supposed to be covered in a felt like material. It always wears off. Beleive it or not you can still get them from your dodge dealer but the price is crazy I want to say like $60 each. Maybe someone can give you the part number or an alternate vendor. either way nows the time to replace them or you woll kick yourself later.
Re: 1970 Plymouth RR Conv Custom Project - 03/24/1104:05 AM
Jarrod,
I just checked my favorites and had this info saved. Here is the part number. Your local dealership can help you out. Ask for 2 of part number 2932230.
Re: 1970 Plymouth RR Conv Custom Project - 03/26/1102:19 AM
Nice car, its coming along great.
Question, I noticed you are running a Keisler kit. I have the same one. How is your driveline angle / header clearence? I have my tranny up as high as i can get it and my 2" tti's are about 2" off the ground. Curious hows your is as I need to find a solution to this and it seems that either cutting the tortion bar crossmember or cutting up the headers is about the only way.
Re: 1970 Plymouth RR Conv Custom Project - 03/27/1104:17 AM
Just a little tip, if you like the quality of Jim's heater box seal kit and I'm sure you do... Have a look on Ebay for what else he makes.... There I go costing you money again....
The little window-edge things came in today. Got my roll of sound deadening stuff yesterday from ebay (for interior firewall and floorboard, and inside doors)
I'm going to spend a decent portion of Sunday working on the car.
My goal is to have the firewall covered in sound deadener, the firewall pad and underdash insulation in place, and the heater box assembled and installed.
So I made an order with summit last weeek for my griffin aluminum radiator, which I now see I'm going to have to polish the top of it! also ordered some AN fittings and hose and fuel filter to fab up something fancy from the fuel pump to the carb.
I was all set to be in the garage for the weekend, but saturday turned into running errands and spending time with my 10 yr old son. Sunday I slept in, till 10:30!! yes, that's right, I woke up at 10:30!! It was awesome! Took a while to get going.. Then wouldn't you know it, the man-vision shows were on spike/speed/etc and then the race, and then we went to lunch, got home, had a small honey-do list to do, then I forced myself into the garage to find the stupid a/c drain line clogged and backing up to the garage. Had to deal with and correct that, and then got some gumption to do something.. I cleaned up the car parts around and on my car and evaluated stuff. I had a hair up my rump to work on my grill. I noticed my left headlight bezel stainless trim had a bend in it! UGH!! So I figured out and painstakenly removed it and it was an edge bend, so I was able to carefully bend it back with pliers. I also noticed the bezel has a tiny chunk of plastic missing at that bend, so I went to the store and got some JB weld, I mixed up a little and smoothed it on that missing part. should be cured by now, so I can sand it tonight when I get home. I also sanded the satellite-style paint off the outer perimter of the grille so I can paint that this week.
I'm all over the dang place, but little by little!
I picked up this nifty street rod/custom radiator hose kit from speedway motors, so I can use the pipe and hose combo to match up to my griffin aluminum radiator. Not to mention I intend on having my painter paint the tubes for me, still undecided if I want some subtle graphics, or just shiny black paint.
And look what I did (posted a thread in general about this Friday). Putting the heater box back together, getting the new core to fit right, the tube fought back! Gonna solder it tonight I think. Easy fix apparently.
So I had to leave work early today to pick up my 13 yr old son because he was sick at school, so I took that opportunity to get out in the garage.. I put some hush mat on the firewall and put up the firewall pads..
Driver's side, took me some trial and error to get it right, not going to fill in the center gap between the two hush mats till I get my 4 speed pedals and hydraulic clutch setup done, not sure what goes where..
Left side pad in place, I messed up two nails, and had no extras, so I had to use one of the generic fasteners that comes with the kit, which I used on the lower one, since it probably won't be much visible under the hood..
The Hush Mat wasn't bad to deal with, easily cut, etc. Worked well with the little roller they include with the kit.
Tomorrow a friend of mine is going to fix my heater core, so I'll get that back together tomorrow night and hopefully installed in the car.
No, we haven't nailed it down yet. Here's the list of suggestions:
1. road runner be chased by wile e. coyote on an acme rocket 2. road runner with flames for a trail 3. a realistic "Roadrunner" logo painted towards the front of the lid. Then put another bigger Roadrunner on there with a giant claw grabbing at the logo...with flames getting heavier going back towards the back of the lid 4. Maybe have the coyote hiding behind an acme box pushing the plunger on a bomb and integrate the real fire into the explosion 5. Have a wild-eyed Wile E. hanging on to the front edge while being blown back over the front of the lid! You've already got the roadrunner on the valvecovers. (Tie design in with the valve covers) 6. Birds head (like '71 RR grille emblem), complete fire for fill in, with the outline and facial details in a lighter tone fire, so you have to look 3 times before you make out the full detail
Quote: Did you decide on a design for the air cleaner lid yet?
I'm really curious to see it espicially after seeing the cool work on the valve covers!
I like it also but would switch the characters so the road runner is in front. also that has got to be the baddest 70 roadrunner vert I have ever seen, cant wait to see it finished.
So I made zero progress this weekend. I worked Saturday and left work at 5:00 not feeling well, and ended up staying in bed, sick as a dog, most of Sunday, and missed work Monday because of being sick too. Feeling 50% better, enough to work today (tuesday). I'll get to spend some time in the garage tonight, finishing the reassembly on my heater box (I filled the repaired core with water the other day, to check for leaks, so far so good).
Re: 1970 Plymouth RR Conv Custom Project - 05/04/1101:28 AM
So I left work early from not feeling good, and sitting on the couch was boring, so I decided to go into the garage and put the box back together. Got the heater core re-installed and the back panel back on and all secure
Finally got the heater box in place!! I also cleaned up and painted the wiper transmission parts, and can't find the stupid clip to mount the long arm to the wiper motor, so that's going to have to wait till I get to my buddy's house to get a spare clip from him. The heater box went in without a hitch, had my girlfriend hold it in place from the other side while I put the re-plated original nuts on under the hood.
So yesterday I spent time at my buddy Richard's house (guy who did the body/paint) and we reassembled the vent frames (well, I assisted him is more accurate LOL)
Got them home and rested them in the doors, to keep them out of the way until next weekend when I get the glass in the doors and that buttoned up..
While at my buddy's house I took advantage of being there and blasted my backup light housings. I cleaned up the rubber wire shield and wire with lacqure thinner and sprayed some bright bright silver in the reflector area and used clear engine paint for the freshly blasted housing. I also used new repop lenses I got from PG classics, nice peices, look the same as the original, just with no pentastar (original ones were cracked and nasty)
After a long break from doing anything with the car, I've finally come to the conclusion that with work, family, and my life in the way, I have no time to work on the car to get it done, so I am having my friend who painted the car do the final assembly for me. Otherwise it will take me another 3 years to get it done myself.
Money well spent I beleive.
It's coming back to my work in a week or so to get prepped to go to his shop, which I beleive will take about a month to get completed (get it running and driving, and maybe some final trim work).
You and Finoke.....geez. Go ahead and light that fire under my butt..... OK, well, mine isn't custom, but it's mine.....so add a 3rd road runner convertible to this. I may make a thread but, it's just time to reassemble. It's been sitting for 8+ years...just replaced the brake system (sans steel brake lines).
I'm trying to get it fired up by the Mopar Atlantic Nationals....but....gremlins...
Jarrod, your custom is looking pretty cool...LOVE those valve covers
Oh, yeah...Finoke.... I'll definitely be in Dover, DE for Labor Day weekend. NorthEast Hemi Owners meet. I'd love to meet you and swap stories .... www.nehoa.org
Quote: Oh, yeah...Finoke.... I'll definitely be in Dover, DE for Labor Day weekend. NorthEast Hemi Owners meet. I'd love to meet you and swap stories .... www.nehoa.org
heater control has been refinished. I also ordered a bunch of "little things" I needed from year one. Time to get my rear end in gear! Lots of updates coming in the next few weeks!!
I also got this cool "digital media receiver" for infotainment. A sony DSX-S100. Face flips down and plug ipod in and enjoy. No CD. I probably won't put an antenna in it (I had the antenna hole filled on the fender). Maybe I'll do satellite radio later. I got a trick dash speaker bracket here on moparts that goes in the stock location and houses two 3.5" speakers. I'm going to run RCA cables and lines to the back of the car and figure out add'l speakers later. I am NOT cutting my doors or my rear interior panels, maybe two 6x9's in the convertible top well, and a small subwoofer that looks like a nitrous bottle.
Car is coming together... I can't wait to see it. I got this radio at discount auto Dual at Discount . I got the 200 watt version for under $34. No Ipod, but it does use an SD card or USB thumbdrive. It has a small size for easy install and a remote control.
Last night, got some time, and got the holes drilled for the '70 rally center caps. First one didn't go so well, and the rim has a few extra holes there
By the time I got to the last one, I had it down pat!
Now the fun part, stripping and refinishing the rims!
It's labor day weekend. I'm working today (Saturday). I'll have my kids for part of Sunday. Girlfriend is in th ekeys with her family. So after the kids go back to my ex, it'll be just the car and I, spending quality time with one another!
I tell you, I love working on the car when I want to, it's very relaxing and peaceful and fulfilling. When I feel like I HAVE to work on it, it takes the fun out...
Dash speaker adapter (made by Jerry Landes, member 74sport) installed with 3.5" speakers to replace the 4x10 dash speaker. Gotta get the radio delete plate cut to match the opening for my head unit (Sony DSX-1000 digital media receiver).
Quote: Last night, got some time, and got the holes drilled for the '70 rally center caps. First one didn't go so well, and the rim has a few extra holes there \
I have been thinking about drilling some holes too. I thought that I would put some clay on the wheel and press the center cap into it to find the centers. How did you do yours?
Quote: Last night, got some time, and got the holes drilled for the '70 rally center caps. First one didn't go so well, and the rim has a few extra holes there \
I have been thinking about drilling some holes too. I thought that I would put some clay on the wheel and press the center cap into it to find the centers. How did you do yours?
I took a manilla envelope and cut it apart to use the paper, and laid it over the backside of the center cap, marking the holes. Flipped it over and marked the lug nut holes.
Then I took it and cut out the holes, put the template on the rotor-side of the wheel, and marked the holes with a sharpie, and drilled away..
I kinda like the center caps and trim rings. As of now, I have the cop wheels in satin black and chrome lug nuts on my convert. The 275-60R15s really look sweet on the back. I'm probably going to replace the 235-70's on the front to something a litter smaller....just not sure yet.
Hello all! It's been quite some time since I've updated this. Once again, life gets in the way for me.. I finally am able to focus on the car again, but this time I have decided I simply do not have the time to work on the car, so after being on a wait list for over a year, I finally have the car with my friend Richard Romanelli (the good one, not the scammer), who did all the body and paint on this car, so he can finish it. When I get it back , I only need to worry about carpet and door panels and minor trim.
I have had the car in storage for almost 4 years, just waiting to get worked on again..
Already ordered a ton of new parts needed to get moving with this. Richard is going to do all of the electrical and mechanical. He's done several of these B body convertibles and is an expert!
clutch master is now plumbed. Pedals are in. Fuel line fabbed up from pump to carb. Making progress. Unfortunately, the more progress he makes, the bigger the parts list gets
Not much to report on, Richard had to get things done on another car he has to get out of his shop. In the meantime, I blasted and painted my fender support braces and my sunvisor brackets (they were plated potmetal, but cleaned up "enough". I puff canned them with silver wheel paint and several coats of wheel paint clear coat. They look much better than in the photos.
I used VHT satin black brake caliper paint on the braces. I use this stuff for lots of small bits. It's durable and easy to work with. Of course I used self-etching primer on everything first.
I've also ordered a TON of small parts from year one, classic industries, rt specialties, even Rock Auto. Slowly by surely.
A little progress has been made. He added the temp control circuitry for the electric fan, mancini racing throttle cable bracket, and cable, and he refinished the parking brake assembly.
Cool looking hose clamps installed. Just some nice stainless clamps that I ordered from summit racing. The bottom is going to be just a stock hose with some cheap clamps (the extra ones I got, were too small for the lower hose, so I'll replace them later on to all match).
Dash is out, and 99% together. Dash pad is going on next. These were taken before the radio trim ring was installed. (this was a rally dash frame I bought years ago, and was already cut for a modern radio, so I just got a radio delete plate to accomodate it.) This radio is a digital radio receiver, and has USB inputs and is satellite and bluetooth capable. There is no antenna on this car, I had the hole filled.
Went to visit the car yesterday. The dash is in, but not 100% secure until all electrical is installed and passed inspection/testing. The column is in, with the old steering wheel on as a "placeholder" until I get a new one (probably a PG classic repop). I gave her some eyes as well. I found the high beam headlight buckets were swapped to the wrong sides, had to correct that, and the left low beam was actually a right low beam. It was a simple mixup due to using a different fender before painting it. I gave the right one a quick sandblasting and coat of puff can paint, and we were back in business. Also blasted the front park lamp housings and cleared them and then installed new bulbs and lenses..
It's made its way onto his lift. Cranking the engine with the starter to check oil distribution to the valvetrain and to get the lifters pumped up strained the starter (which was a new mini-starter from 440source 6 years ago) and it took a poo. So I got a brand new mini-starter from the parts store and we were back in business. I had to flip the driver's side rocker shaft over 180 deg because I had the enlarged bolt hole facing up instead of down.. oops! There's still one lifter that's not fully pumped up, but it's coming along. We are going to let it ride till it fires up and see if it comes to life. We expect it to without a problem.
Richard is working to get the exhaust to all line up (fitting a Pypes stainless cat-back to TTI headers). It will get fulled welded in, correct tips put on, and buttoned up once the overlap-style exhaust band clamps come in from summit racing. Reverse lights are in, tank vent lines, and he's getting the rear light harness routed and connected now. Expecting to have a full electrical check early this coming week and attempt to start the engine.
Tried to start it yesterday. Filled the bowls, and gave her a crank. It fired at the first bump but it stumbled and died and wouldn't start. Gotta start checking grounds for the starter solenoid and each. Just ran out of time
Tried to start it yesterday. Filled the bowls, and gave her a crank. It fired at the first bump but it stumbled and died and wouldn't start. Gotta start checking grounds for the starter solenoid and each. Just ran out of time
Re: 1970 Plymouth RR Conv Custom Project - 02/10/1704:55 AM
Developed a slight valvetrain tick after some heat cycles. I'm going to visit it Sunday and I'll do a valve adjustment on the roller rockers. I figured that would be coming. It's had a full light check. All good!
New plug wires installed, the ones I had on there were way too long. Got some "cut to fit" ones from summit. Also added a billet power steering cap to match the rest of the engine bay. The choke is connected and the fan wiring and all final wiring is done under the hood. Much better!
The front bumper should be going on today, and maybe some side windows if he has time. I wish I could be doing more myself with the car, but if you have been following this thread, you all know I have such limited time on my hands due to my work schedule. I have enjoyed the time I have been able to go up and work on the car with Richard myself, at least to make me feel a little bit like I had a hand in it. At least I feel good since I did the final engine assembly on the short block and installed the drivetrain.
Lower grille opening molding in place, bucket seat reinforcement plates installed (it *was* a bench seat car), mis-matched fender bolts replaced with gold-cad plated bolts from RT specialties (left them in cad for the contrast, I think it looks nice and different. Doesn't matter since it's a full-blown custom resto-mod).
Other door glass should go in this week. He still has to paint the kick panels, header panel pieces, and the steering wheel horn pad before those go in.
And now we are down to "the little things". He painted the steering wheel horn pad to patch (with the correct paint type for the vinyl material) and the kick panels (which were good used black ones I got from Tony's Parts years ago to replace the chalky burnt orange original ones) and the windshield header pieces.
Hoping to drop off the original door panels to the upholsterer tonight, to get them re-wrapped in material to match the custom seats.
I always wait for a 30% Y.O. coupon, and I used that last week and ordered the carpet and some other small bits I needed. I am bringing him the console tonight, so he can get it fitted and the brackets put in (it was a bench seat car)
I brought him the used center console I had so he can mock it up. With the keisler setup, it uses an automatic console with a 4 speed top plate. I have a brand new automatic shell coming, and already bought all the chrome bits from pg classic some time ago. I never go the top shifter boot, which I ordered over the weekend. Richard has the brackets (also got them from PG classic some time ago), and he's got it mocked up, but not secure yet, but making sure it all fits with the seats in place. Here you can also see the seats, which were from a '70 Sport Satellite, and are not custom-covered with modern stitching and a carbon fiber weave type of insert.
It's getting close! I'm hoping the new windshield and top will be done by the end of next week (3/17/17).
The rear interior panels are final painted (bottom is satin, top is gloss). The new console was also painted with the interior dye to match everything since it was in an oddball "fresh cast/stained" look to it. Slowly but surely.
The rear door panels were on backorder, but I was told it should be within two weeks at this point.
The new console shell is fitted and the brackets welded to the floor. No windshield yet unfortunately, the dry transfer for the "Chrysler corporation" on the VIN plate didn't stick so I got another from ECS coming, so the windshield is on hold for now.
The new console shell is fitted and the brackets welded to the floor. No windshield yet unfortunately, the dry transfer for the "Chrysler corporation" on the VIN plate didn't stick so I got another from ECS coming, so the windshield is on hold for now.
If you're having problems with the front of the console top plate sticking up, I have a fixture here that we used to bend every single one (4-speed or auto) to fit the console correctly before we shipped them. Actually, the very first run of top plates were complete junk that we through away.
I never could get PG to fix the issue so I gave up and kept fixing them.
No issues came up, except the studs snapped off the console lid. I told him to use expoxy to hold the hinge to the lid and I will deal with it later in life...
Grille is painted (with correct paints from Totally Auto) and done, and the lower grille installed. Can't wait to see the grille installed and the car to have a "face"
Re: 1970 Plymouth RR Conv Custom Project - 04/13/1701:01 AM
The devil is in the details. I got more insulation, so he was able to finish the rear seat floor area. Also got in the fender shields and covers for the suspension bolt access. The carpet should go in any day. The major holdup is the rear door panels that are on backorder, but expected to ship any day....
When the car leaves his shop, I will have to spend time tuning the carb, as it's running REAL rich. Other than that, I will have to get a new top done after the fact at an upholstery shop I have known for years closer to my home, that can do it in the same day for me.
The car received its final paint touch-ups and buff, and then he proceeded to install the stainless trim around the belt-line and get the grille and all surrounding trim installed. The rear door panels are on backorder from legendary, I was told another 3-5 weeks. I ordered them at the beginning of March. That's preventing the rear panels and backseat from going in. The carpet should go in next week. Getting very close!! I'm hoping it's back home by the end of May.
Had to wait for the passenger door to be done, after I went up for him to measure where to install the right mirror (It didn't have one from the factory), the repop I had previously bought years ago broke. So I got another one from year one, and it had much better chrome! Now the passenger door is all together and looking sharp.
While waiting for the new top to get put on and the windshield done, Richard test fit the air cleaner and I told him to go ahead and work on the artwork since we have some downtime. This is the first draft of it, there will be a few changes, but I am happy otherwise. He did this freehand! The man is an artist!
Still no rear door panels (the tiny ones that pop in there). Classic industries is going to reach out to me this week to give me a real ETA. That's preventing the large rear interior panels to be installed (these clip from behind) and the backseat installed.
Hoping the top is done this week or next, and the windshield too. Once the backseat is in, the car comes home.
I plan to "nut and bolt" the car to ensure safety, and I have to reclock the torsion bars, I messed up when putting the engine in, and the adjustment bolts stick out from the control arm too far.. oops!
The rear door panels shipped out yesterday! Hoping the windshield gets done next week, and the top following soon after.. I am hoping the car comes home in the first or second week of June!
Hood pad cut/modified to fit with the oval air cleaner (a little clearance issue due to the intake, was to be expected). Making sure no issues before artwork gets done. Convertible top latches installed. Just waiting on the windshield before the top goes on, and the rear door panels... close!!
The rear door panels finally came in! Now they have to be transferred over to the originals (metal backing and stainless strip at the top).
The windshield was ordered on Tuesday 5/23. Expected mid-next week, and hoping it's installed by the end of the week, then it's time for all the A pillar-header trim.
Once that's done, It's coming home with me, and I am taking it home. I will "nut and bolt" the car to ensure it's all properly torqued and safe underneath, and I have to reclock the torsion bars (I made a boo boo when putting the engine in, and when at ride height, the adjuster bolts stick out from the control arm and look stupid..). It's alignment time, and then I'll register the car, and DRIVE it to the upholstery shop to get the top done. After that, back to Richard's so we can put the rear interior in it.. And then she's DONE!!!
Re: 1970 Plymouth RR Conv Custom Project - 06/07/1704:20 AM
all the a pillar trim is installed. The car is coming to my Work next week for me to "nut and bolt" the car and align it. Then I'll register it and drive it to the upholstery shop to get the top done!
Re: 1970 Plymouth RR Conv Custom Project - 06/22/1701:41 AM
She was delivered to my workplace Monday morning this week. I just finished re-orienting the torsion bars (the adjuster bolts stuck out too far, my fault!). I just set the ride height and did a "nut and bolt" check under the car. It's running great. I am going to register it this Friday, and early next week I am taking it to the upholstery shop for the top to be installed.
After that, I drive it back to Richard's, where together, we will install the rear interior and passenger front seat, and she's done!
Re: 1970 Plymouth RR Conv Custom Project - 06/22/1702:31 AM
That is awesome, congratulations its been a long process, been following it for a while.
Are the wheels that are on it permanent? it seems with the mild custom treatment you gave it, I would have figured a modern type polished wheel and tire combo, not 20s but maybe 17"&18" five spokes or Magnum 500s
I look at those wheels like a modern interpretation love child of the keystone classic and magnum 500. Someone on FB had them on a green duster and they looked amazing!
So the car has been running REALLY rich. It's probably a bit over-carbed with the 870 street avenger. I changed the primary jets from the original 78's to 76's and retuned it and it's a night and day difference!
Tomorrow morning I am going to the tax collector's office to register the car. I'm sure I'll take a beating. I let the registration lapse in 2002...
hahahahah, I'm sure its a tiny fee in comparison to the cost of the car. What hurts is it goes to the Tax Man, not into the car or a few cold ones after a long day.
Got the car registered and legal this morning. Took her at lunchtime today to fill it up with gas and for a brief drive to get some food, and saw my favorite sub shop owner, who has a new Challenger Scat Pack Shaker.
The car spit and sputtered a little under a light load, but was fine after it warmed up. I am going to spend a little more time tuning the carb. when I got back, the idle was at 1200rpm. I turned it back down. Overall, I was pretty happy. The brakes felt good, steering was good. All in all was a good first drive (6 miles)
Scheduled to get the top done on Wednesday, 7/5. I'll drop it off at the upholstery shop at 7:30 am that day. Should be done either late the same day or the next day. I trust them. I've used them for years for other work through my employer. They do dealer work, and custom/hot rod work too.
So I have spent time tuning the carb up. It was running stupid rich at idle, so I changed the jets down from 78's to 76's. Made a nice improvement, but it still has a little stumble just off idle. The accelerator pump discharge nozzles are working fine, and at the right time, but they are putting a lot of fuel down the carb when in use. They are .045, I ordered .035's today from summit. I'll try that and see if it helps. Some tinkering with the idle mix screws have helped, but not 100% cured. it's a street avenger 870.
I drove it home from the shop Monday 7/1. I put the top down, and proceeded to get sprinkled with fluid for the top's hydraulic system. Looks like it seeped out a hose somewhere, but I can't find the leak. Now it has an air pocket in it, but isn't leaking anymore.. Gonna have the upholstery shop that's doing the top go through it and make sure it's 100% right.
I put some miles on it Monday and Tuesday, and broke 100 miles taking it to the upholstery shop this morning at drop-off. The temp stays nice and steady at about 180, verified by an infrared temp gun at the radiator inlet too, so the temp gauge is working good.
It should be done at the upholstery shop late tomorrow. After that, I take it back to Richard's so we can install the rest of the interior, and he has some touch-ups to do on the car.
Just picked her up from having the new black top put on. The rest of the interior goes in tomorrow morning, then it's time to make up for 16 years of lost time with my old friend.
Take a note of the tach! Cruising in 5th gear! Love it!
Drove the car to Richard's and we got the rest of the interior in the car. The passenger door required a hinge adjustment to get the class properly lined up to the new top, and we had to do a minor adjustment to the top frame at the screw in the break in the frame between the front and rear side glass to get it leveled out. The top is pulled pretty tight, and the shop said that it would need some time to stretch out properly and to keep it up as much as possible for a few days.
I took it through the dunkin donuts drive-through on my way there, I'm sure it will be the only car like that to ever do that!
New wheels are here 18x8 with 255/45 at all four corners. Lug nuts are too large and make the socket touch the rim, gonna go out at lunch and get smaller lug nuts. Can't believe the look. They are perfect!
Well worth the wait, lesson to all. Patience and perseverance pays off.
CONGRATULATIONS
Thank you! It's so surreal that the car is finally done.
Well, it'll never be done, but it's at least 100% and functional now. Took my better half with me to a weekly cruise night in Delray Beach last night. It was nearly full when we pulled up, people stopped, stared, and parted like Moses and the red sea..
Anyone that knows me can tell ya I'm not a custom type of guy. But your car is done so nicely and tastefully that I LOVE IT!!!! You should be very Proud of it, I remember over the years you had a bunch of roadblocks but so very glad you continued on to this level of Perfection!!! Ron
Anyone that knows me can tell ya I'm not a custom type of guy. But your car is done so nicely and tastefully that I LOVE IT!!!! You should be very Proud of it, I remember over the years you had a bunch of roadblocks but so very glad you continued on to this level of Perfection!!! Ron
Thanks man! It's been a long, strange road for sure.
I am getting REALLY closed on the tune on the carb. Took her out to "mexico" yesterday for a little flogging. Told my 16 year old to film the steering wheel/dash/shifter (and not my gut..). He tried his best...
Front and rear swaybars are on. The front was super easy. Hellwig 1 1/8" bar, rear was an addco 3/4" bar. Lining up the rear and drilling/etc was a tedious pain in the ass, but it's done and on. Huge difference in the handling!!
I put my MP pinion snubber on, but had to take it off, at ride height, it's right on the floor at the lowest setting, so I need to find a stock one (mine grew legs..)
Out at Cars and Coffee Palm Beach this morning. It got a little hot waiting in line to pull in. It marked it's territory when sitting , but she shows well
Just a little update. I have been enjoying the car, but I ran into a little snag. The old style flanged green bearings failed due to a bent axleshaft. I upgraded to new axleshafts and snapring style bearings from doctor diff, all good now! I was in a parade on July 4th, and had the mayor for the city of Margate, FL in my car! It was a cool experience. The car did great, temp gauge stayed nice and steady, no issues!
Something odd. Some youtube channel made a "Build video" of my car, using pictures from moparts and facebook. It's flattering, and creepy at the same time.
Just keeping myself relevant. The car is doing great. I changed my lifters in January. The original comp cams lifters from 2007 would not stay pumped up. One was stuck down completely and not cooperating. So I got a whole new set of comp cams roller lifters from summit. Only to find they have been redesigned and are shorter now, so I had to measure, find, and purchase new pushrods. All good now!
Hey guys! I don't get on here often. But she's running great! I changed the mufflers in November to Flowmaster Delta 44's, so much better! The pypes race pro mufflers sound great, but are way too quiet at idle, so there was just no "presence" when pulling into events. Don't have that problem anymore!
I like it also but would switch the characters so the road runner is in front. also that has got to be the baddest 70 roadrunner vert I have ever seen, cant wait to see it finished. 
