F.G.'s Corvette modernization/restoration thread [Archive]

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F.G.

06-01-2014, 10:24 PM

As some of you may know, I own a 92 Corvette. The car needs some minor restoration, which is mostly cosmetic to get it back into shape. As I do this, I will also modernize whatever can be modernized to bring it into the 21st century. Keep in mind that this project will take time, and updates will be done to it as time and money allow. I also have a DD Firebird and an F150 that need regular maintenance. However, the main focus will be on the Corvette.

When I bought it, it was bone stock and in good condition minus a little paint fade.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/fez383/103_0115.jpg (http://s22.photobucket.com/user/fez383/media/103_0115.jpg.html)

First ever dyno run when it was stock. Made 247 rwhp and 295 rwtq.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/fez383/2010-11-14_103008.jpg (http://s22.photobucket.com/user/fez383/media/2010-11-14_103008.jpg.html)

Over the years I did the typical bolt ons, along with a built trans with 3200 stall. This is pretty much how it looks like. Its still a good strong car, but the paint is a 10 footer and the car has typical old car problems.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/fez383/corvette%20restoration/IMG_07001_zps59d20734.jpg (http://s22.photobucket.com/user/fez383/media/corvette%20restoration/IMG_07001_zps59d20734.jpg.html)

The past year and a half or so, I went through a bit of depression. The car was not neglected, but I didn't really do anything to the car other than regular maintenance. I drove the car regularly but did not go to car events like I used to. I was still enthusiastic about cars, but I was not as involved as I used to.

Slowly, things started getting better In my life and one day I decided to go to a weekly cruise in that was in its infancy. There I got back into the car scene as one of the first that went to that cruise and one of the die hards that is there every week rain or shine.

I met many great friends there whom, along with their cars, gave me the itch to get my car back in shape.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/fez383/corvette%20restoration/IMG_15021_zpsaaf7bd75.jpg (http://s22.photobucket.com/user/fez383/media/corvette%20restoration/IMG_15021_zpsaaf7bd75.jpg.html)

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/fez383/corvette%20restoration/IMG_15031_zpsb0a5a52e.jpg (http://s22.photobucket.com/user/fez383/media/corvette%20restoration/IMG_15031_zpsb0a5a52e.jpg.html)

F.G.

06-01-2014, 11:21 PM

Just as I was getting back into the car scene, my steering column broke, the key would not turn. At first, I thought the ignition cylinder was at fault, so I replaced that.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/fez383/corvette%20restoration/IMG_04821_zps69d75e67.jpg (http://s22.photobucket.com/user/fez383/media/corvette%20restoration/IMG_04821_zps69d75e67.jpg.html)

It still wouldn't work, so I was able to get ahold of a used steering column from a 94. A mechanic friend of mine helped me swap columns, and that did the trick.

Over the years, my shocks got so worn out, that the car would actually bounce a little on the highway. Of course, not wanting to leave things stock, I went with Bilsteins with Z51 valving to go on my base suspension. The car is now stiffer, more stable, and corners a lot flatter.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/fez383/corvette%20restoration/IMG_14631_zps87114212.jpg (http://s22.photobucket.com/user/fez383/media/corvette%20restoration/IMG_14631_zps87114212.jpg.html)

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/fez383/corvette%20restoration/IMG_14611_zpse8552642.jpg (http://s22.photobucket.com/user/fez383/media/corvette%20restoration/IMG_14611_zpse8552642.jpg.html)

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/fez383/corvette%20restoration/IMG_14621_zpsa3dda025.jpg (http://s22.photobucket.com/user/fez383/media/corvette%20restoration/IMG_14621_zpsa3dda025.jpg.html)

My tires were also pretty worn, hard, and dry-rotted, so I decided to replace them. This time around, I went with Nitto 555 in 275 front and 315 rear. I wanted a tire that would still give me good dry traction, but would last longer, and be safer in the rain. I'm also trying to get the car to be more road trip friendly, as that's what I want to do with the car this year.

Getting the tires installed
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/fez383/corvette%20restoration/IMG_15651_zpsff506d38.jpg (http://s22.photobucket.com/user/fez383/media/corvette%20restoration/IMG_15651_zpsff506d38.jpg.html)

Rear shot
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/fez383/corvette%20restoration/IMG_16481_zps185eaaef.jpg (http://s22.photobucket.com/user/fez383/media/corvette%20restoration/IMG_16481_zps185eaaef.jpg.html)

Just wanted to show off my C5 brake swap I did a couple years ago. Great improvement!
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/fez383/corvette%20restoration/IMG_16511_zps1483516c.jpg (http://s22.photobucket.com/user/fez383/media/corvette%20restoration/IMG_16511_zps1483516c.jpg.html)

I cleaned my engine bay after over a year of not touching it. It took a good 3 hours, but the result was well worth it. I got many compliments when I entered my first car show in the past two years.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/fez383/corvette%20restoration/IMG_16371_zpscb7fb2a5.jpg (http://s22.photobucket.com/user/fez383/media/corvette%20restoration/IMG_16371_zpscb7fb2a5.jpg.html)

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/fez383/corvette%20restoration/IMG_16351_zpsd60a16ac.jpg (http://s22.photobucket.com/user/fez383/media/corvette%20restoration/IMG_16351_zpsd60a16ac.jpg.html)

The past two summers I had been living with no A/C in the car. 100+ degree weather here in Texas is no fun, and the girlfriend in particular did not even want to get in the car.

I was able to find a used, low mile compressor for 70 bucks, and decided to take a gamble on it. Everything else was bought new. I was planning on installing everything myself, but my mechanic friend offered to install it for $50 so I said why not.

As you can see, this compressor is black instead of natural aluminum. I wasn't too sure about it, but I like it now, and I plan on powdercoating the alternator to match.
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/fez383/corvette%20restoration/IMG_17461_zps1a2b2b83.jpg (http://s22.photobucket.com/user/fez383/media/corvette%20restoration/IMG_17461_zps1a2b2b83.jpg.html)

Last Friday, I decided to run errands in the car and I was very happy to have working A/C since it was the first day of the year that the temperature got to 100 degrees.

Unfortunatley, my starter heat soaked and would not start the car. I've been dealing with this problem ever since I installed the longtubes two years ago. Anyway, I let the car cool for about 40 minutes, and it finally started. I got home and tried to move the car, but this time it was so hot out, that the car would not start for an hour and a half.

I dealt with this all of last summer, and I really do not want to deal with it this year, so I bit the bullet and ordered myself a Powermaster 9502 mini starter. From the research Ive done, this starter is supposed to fix the heat soak problem.

This is where Im at now. I'm just waiting on the starter to get here and I hope to have the car ready by the 11th since me and the girlfriend plan on taking a small roadtrip in the vette for the first time.

The near future plans (no particular order) are:
1. Powermaster starter
2. Fix/replace my trans temp gauge
3. HID headlights/fogs
4. Convert to LED exterior/interior lighting
5. Weatherstripping
6. update the interior
7. update the sound system
8. hydrodip some underhood components such as frc's
9. Lower the car
10.Fix the right rear tail pipe hanger

Longer term plans:
1. LE2 or Ai topend or full build (depends on condition of engine when I get to it)
2. Lower gears
3. Full Z51 suspension
4. Toledo Pro cowl hood
5. Paint

F.G.

06-01-2014, 11:22 PM

I forgot to ask if installing a starter blanket on the new starter will be beneficial, or if it will just trap more heat inside?

popo8

06-02-2014, 05:11 AM

Hey man...GREAT START to the write up!

I Never saw a starter blanket...but on my camaro...i wrapped the starter in header wrap and it worked GREAT!!!

LTXtech.com is my Drug...

F.G.

06-02-2014, 11:59 AM

Injuneer

06-02-2014, 12:08 PM

Gotta love the Corvette. My dream was to buy a 93 40th Anniversary Edition, but it never worked out. I'm coming up on my 25th year as a founding member of the National Corvette Museum, but I've never owned one. :(

Good luck with your project.... it's one I'm going to watch very closely.

F.G.

06-02-2014, 12:16 PM

Thank you for the compliments, I almost bought a 6 speed 40th before this one. That's cool that you're a founding member, hopefully one day you get your dream car.

popo8

06-02-2014, 12:57 PM

Thank you popo. The starter blanket is pretty much like header wrap, I'll give it a try. On another note, today on my way to get my pre employment medical results, my A/C stopped working. The clutch is not engaging. On top of that, my starter is yet again heat soaked. I've been stuck here for almost an hour and I'm thirty miles from home. I'm not driving this car until my new starter comes in.

My pleasure man, and that sucks... I hope you get it straightened out and fun to drive again. Even my lil l98 c4 is a blast to drive...drove it today actually. NO AC. lol

BTW, if you use the header wrap...wet it, and wrap it tight, use large zip-ties to attach it, as it dries, it will tighten.

F.G.

06-02-2014, 01:55 PM

Thanks for the tip popo.

So after waiting almost two hours, the car started. I got it home and checked the AC. The compressor is not noisy so I think that's good. Just the clutch is not engaging, and the car just blows hot air through the vents with the AC on. My mechanic friend is going to check it out later today. I think I need a new clutch. Does anyone think my suspicion is correct?

popo8

06-02-2014, 02:24 PM

I think they also have a safety feature that if it loses r12 or freon or whatever, they will not cycle.... I THINK...

F.G.

06-02-2014, 02:33 PM

That may be my problem because he converted it to R134A

F.G.

06-02-2014, 02:53 PM

I did some research on R134A conversion for C4's and it looks like my mechanic did it right, so that leads me to believe that the problem does not lie with the conversion.

Injuneer

06-02-2014, 04:51 PM

You can also by a metal heat shield to protect the starter. Its got insulation between two layers of metal.

http://www.jegs.com/i/Moroso/710/74300/10002/-1?CAWELAID=1710767310&CAGPSPN=pla&catargetid=230006180000514807&cadevice=c&gclid=CNPDgIKW3L4CFSsV7AodxHMADw

And as much as I hate wrapping headers, consider wrapping the section right next to the starter.

F.G.

06-02-2014, 05:38 PM

Thank you for the link and the tip Injuneer.

96z28SideSwype

06-03-2014, 10:47 AM

You could also do a ford starter solenoid trick my dad did it on his Camaro

Silver 96 Z28 SideSwype-DD
Green 96 Z28 NightMare-Drag car

F.G.

06-03-2014, 04:13 PM

Thanks sideswipe. That's the plan if the mini starter doesn't solve the problem. My AC is working again, it turned out to be an electrical issue.

popo8

06-03-2014, 06:16 PM

Good news on the ac.

LTXtech.com is my Drug...

F.G.

06-04-2014, 09:51 PM

Look what showed up today. I'll be installing it this Friday.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/fez383/corvette%20restoration/IMG_17521_zps2f7faf37.jpg (http://s22.photobucket.com/user/fez383/media/corvette%20restoration/IMG_17521_zps2f7faf37.jpg.html)

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/fez383/corvette%20restoration/IMG_17531_zps7ce7e644.jpg (http://s22.photobucket.com/user/fez383/media/corvette%20restoration/IMG_17531_zps7ce7e644.jpg.html)

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/fez383/corvette%20restoration/IMG_17551_zpsf06f4852.jpg (http://s22.photobucket.com/user/fez383/media/corvette%20restoration/IMG_17551_zpsf06f4852.jpg.html)

popo8

06-04-2014, 11:15 PM

Thats a nice lookin piece.

LTXtech.com is my Drug...

F.G.

06-05-2014, 02:37 AM

Thanks popo. It looks to be very good quality.

F.G.

06-07-2014, 08:04 PM

I got to work on the car on Friday

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/fez383/corvette%20restoration/IMG_17651_zpsa78c415e.jpg (http://s22.photobucket.com/user/fez383/media/corvette%20restoration/IMG_17651_zpsa78c415e.jpg.html)

I installed the new starter in 100+ degree weather. On top of that, I spent more time looking for my tools than I did wrenching on the car. Family borrows my tools and they either dont put them back where they go, or they lose them. I'm thinking of buying myself a nice tool set and NOT lending it out.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/fez383/corvette%20restoration/IMG_17661_zpsbabc1e71.jpg (http://s22.photobucket.com/user/fez383/media/corvette%20restoration/IMG_17661_zpsbabc1e71.jpg.html)

Anyway, after a bit of a struggle and some dehydration, it was out with the old and in with the new. While I was in there I wrapped some wires that were in close proximity to the headers just as a precaution. I also did a more permanent fix on the A/C wiring that had given me problems a few days ago.

I took the car out to the cruise night, and both the starter and the AC performed flawlessly. I plan on driving the car throughout the week to really put it to the test.

There were some pretty cool cars at the cruise that night. The two mustangs belong to some friends. Two weeks ago they were both rolling chassis and they spent two weeks thrashing on them to get them running and driving.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/fez383/cruise%20in/IMG_17671-1_zps1a7cece8.jpg (http://s22.photobucket.com/user/fez383/media/cruise%20in/IMG_17671-1_zps1a7cece8.jpg.html)

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/fez383/cruise%20in/IMG_17711_zps94f4ea2a.jpg (http://s22.photobucket.com/user/fez383/media/cruise%20in/IMG_17711_zps94f4ea2a.jpg.html)

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/fez383/cruise%20in/IMG_17721_zpsda1b1ca1.jpg (http://s22.photobucket.com/user/fez383/media/cruise%20in/IMG_17721_zpsda1b1ca1.jpg.html)

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/fez383/cruise%20in/IMG_17731_zps75c92690.jpg (http://s22.photobucket.com/user/fez383/media/cruise%20in/IMG_17731_zps75c92690.jpg.html)

On another note, I got news that I start working with the Sheriff's Office on the 30th. I'm very happy, however that means that I will have to save this next paycheck for the essentials just in case my new job takes a while to pay me. Therefore, I wont be able to buy any more parts for the next couple of weeks, but fear not, as soon as I start getting regular pay checks again, updates to the car will be made much faster.

Fastbird

06-07-2014, 08:10 PM

I'm intently following and enjoying this. I've always had a soft spot for late C4's and would strongly consider one if I didn't want back into a C5 or newer so badly.

Posted from my LG G2

F.G.

06-07-2014, 08:27 PM

Thanks Fastbird. I've always liked these cars ever since I was a little kid. It all started with my dad getting me a red vert C4 diecast. I have a soft spot for C5's as well, I really liked yours. If I ever get another corvette, it will either be a C5 ZO6 or if I can afford it, a C6 ZO6, but I will not be getting rid of this car, I'll just make room for more lol.

popo8

06-07-2014, 09:37 PM

Congrats on the job man. BE SAFE!

As Im sure u know...I love the c4s as well. Lol.

My next will be the c7 zo6...once they sell..then get sold used...lol.

LTXtech.com is my Drug...

F.G.

06-08-2014, 12:36 AM

Thank you Popo, I'll be as safe as possible.

Man, those C7 ZO6's are amazing. I just saw the power numbers on them a couple days ago.

F.G.

06-14-2014, 11:23 AM

I've been driving the car all week, and I'm happy to say that both the starter and the AC have been working great. I really wish I had done the investment a year ago. I also went to the Friday night cruise in and 96z28sideswype was there. Cool guy and badass camaro. I wish I would have gotten a picture of our cars together.

popo8

06-14-2014, 02:05 PM

Thats great !!!! Its awesome when members meet. How did u know it was him.

LTXtech.com is my Drug...

F.G.

06-14-2014, 02:31 PM

I recognized the car right away, it's on bigs and littles, plus he has an ltxtech banner on the windshield.

popo8

06-14-2014, 03:04 PM

Thats great!!! LTX windshield banner ftw!!!!

LTXtech.com is my Drug...

F.G.

07-20-2014, 05:36 PM

So, I've been driving my car around, enjoying different events and just waiting for my first paycheck. I finally receive my paycheck this Friday, and my transmission burned up. No forward or reverse at all. Time to save up for a new trans :(

Fastbird

07-20-2014, 06:20 PM

Doh! Just when it going good, somethings gotta pop up right?

popo8

07-20-2014, 07:51 PM

96z28SideSwype

07-21-2014, 08:05 AM

It was cool being out there, only thing that suck is it's on a Friday and that's when the track is open lol. I still liked it when I left I don't think anyone expected the Camaro to be that loud and cammed that much

Silver 96 Z28 SideSwype-DD
Green 96 Z28 NightMare-Drag car

F.G.

07-21-2014, 09:47 PM

Yea it sucks, but things happen. I plan on going with a performabuilt level 2. Sideswype, everyone was surprised by your car.

popo8

07-21-2014, 10:07 PM

Yea it sucks, but things happen. I plan on going with a performabuilt level 2. Sideswype, everyone was surprised by your car.
You consider talkin to Frank Cahall cpt before makin a decision?

F.G.

08-09-2014, 08:39 PM

You consider talkin to Frank @Cahall (http://ltxtech.com/forums/member.php?u=5698) cpt before makin a decision?

I wish I would have checked this thread before, but I already ordered my transmission and torque converter. Its going to be a performabuilt level 2 700R4 and an 11" 3200 stall FTI converter, and of course a big cooler.

popo8

08-10-2014, 03:15 AM

I wish I would have checked this thread before, but I already ordered my transmission and torque converter. Its going to be a performabuilt level 2 700R4 and an 11" 3200 stall FTI converter, and of course a big cooler.
:(

F.G.

08-12-2014, 09:27 PM

:(

Whats wrong Popo?

popo8

08-12-2014, 09:28 PM

Lol... Missed hookin u up with frank for a cpt trans . Thats all.

F.G.

08-16-2014, 01:34 PM

Oh ok. Next time I need a trans I'll go with CPT.

My trans should be shipped out this coming week, I can't wait to drive this thing again.

popo8

08-17-2014, 12:14 AM

I know the feeling. I bought my vette becasuse I missed driving a sports car when the camaro was down.

F.G.

08-23-2014, 04:21 PM

I'm going crazy driving normal cars. I gotta get myself another muscle car. Was considering getting a challenger in a few months, of course I won't get rid of the vette though.

popo8

08-23-2014, 05:08 PM

Kinda what I did. Bought the vette to fill the gap when the camaro was down... now I have the TA also. Lol

F.G.

08-23-2014, 08:23 PM

lol, yea the other day I saw a really clean 97 T/A at the gas station, made me want one.

F.G.

09-20-2014, 03:11 PM

Its been a long time since my last update, but last week my transmission and converter finally came in.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/fez383/corvette%20restoration/IMG_1996_zps5e23c392.jpg (http://s22.photobucket.com/user/fez383/media/corvette%20restoration/IMG_1996_zps5e23c392.jpg.html)

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/fez383/corvette%20restoration/IMG_1997_zpsa33f28c7.jpg (http://s22.photobucket.com/user/fez383/media/corvette%20restoration/IMG_1997_zpsa33f28c7.jpg.html)

The car went off to the shop...

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/fez383/corvette%20restoration/IMG_2003_zpsc937df63.jpg (http://s22.photobucket.com/user/fez383/media/corvette%20restoration/IMG_2003_zpsc937df63.jpg.html)

The car was running great, the converter feels tighter than the old one, and still launches just as hard. The trans shifts quick and firm under heavy acceleration, and is smooth under normal driving. All was going well, but this car loves to fight me every step. yesterday I was doing an HID conversion, and when I hooked up the harness, there was a short. Now the car turns over, but won't start. I used a test light, and there is no power at the alternator. I'm pretty frustrated right now, but the car will be going into an automotive electric shop on monday.

F.G.

09-27-2014, 03:10 PM

I got my car back from the shop, and there are very good news. It turns out the alternator shorted out due to some faulty wiring the transmission shop did when they wired up my trans temp gauge, so it turns out I did nothing wrong when wiring the HID's.

They ended up replacing the alternator, fixing some faulty wiring, and they got my radio working again. Im happy to finally have my car working nearly perfectly. Now I can finally enjoy it to the fullest. Next on the list is converting all the other lights to LED, and finding a leak on the AC system.

P.S. I'll post up pictures of the HID's and gauges soon.

popo8

09-27-2014, 04:08 PM

Thats great news man!

Greasemunkey

10-13-2014, 11:02 PM

Thats a good looking vette man

F.G.

03-12-2015, 08:55 PM

I apologize for not updating this thread in a long time. I've been real busy with work and specially with the FTO program. Since my last update, I've installed HID headlights and fog lamps, as well as LED back up lights. I also ordered a lowering kit for the rear that I found for a good price.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/fez383/IMG_23091_zpsx0o9vpbc.jpg (http://s22.photobucket.com/user/fez383/media/IMG_23091_zpsx0o9vpbc.jpg.html)

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/fez383/IMG_23161_zpsnvuo96e3.jpg (http://s22.photobucket.com/user/fez383/media/IMG_23161_zpsnvuo96e3.jpg.html)

I also bought a new daily driver. Its a 2010 SRT8 with the 6.1 and 6 speed manual. I really like it, but I still enjoy driving the corvette a lot more. It helps me decompress from work.

This sunday I'll be in my first SCCA autocross with the Corvette. I'm very excited, I'll let you guys know how it goes.

popo8

03-13-2015, 02:51 AM

Please do... and try to get pics.

As for the lowering kit... isnt the rear lowering kit for c4s just longer bolts to draw it down further?

Car looks fantastic.... and keep with it with the FTO training...

F.G.

03-13-2015, 07:04 PM

Thank you for the compliment, I'll do my best to get pics, hopefully my photographer friend goes so he can focus on pictures and I focus on driving. The lowering kit for the rear is just longer bolts, I just wanted to make sure I got the correct size so I bought some that were pretty inexpensive.

As far as FTO goes, I'm doing good, I have two weeks left and I'll be on my own. Do you have any tips as far as being on my own?

popo8

03-13-2015, 07:07 PM

Booze... Broads... and Bribes... the 3Bs that will ruin a cop.

F.G.

03-15-2015, 11:20 PM

I'll be sure to stay away from all that

popo8

03-16-2015, 03:38 AM

I'll be sure to stay away from all that
484-824-3343 is my cell. Call or text me anytime if u need to bounce anything off of me. I dont know everything... but ive got 14 years under my belt...

F.G.

03-16-2015, 09:15 PM

will do, and thank you, I really appreciate it

As far as the autocross goes, I had a blast! My best time was 78.76 which was middle of the pack. The car did great and I'm definitely hooked. I'm even looking at purchasing a set of wheels and tires for autocross only.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/fez383/IMG_27101_zps6zbmew9h.jpg (http://s22.photobucket.com/user/fez383/media/IMG_27101_zps6zbmew9h.jpg.html)

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/fez383/IMG_27121_zpssr65pip2.jpg (http://s22.photobucket.com/user/fez383/media/IMG_27121_zpssr65pip2.jpg.html)

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/fez383/IMG_69161_zpsewxs39cl.jpg (http://s22.photobucket.com/user/fez383/media/IMG_69161_zpsewxs39cl.jpg.html)

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b341/fez383/IMG_27181_zpse7yv4cxk.jpg (http://s22.photobucket.com/user/fez383/media/IMG_27181_zpse7yv4cxk.jpg.html)

popo8

03-17-2015, 04:30 AM

No problem man.

Awesome that u enjoyed the autox. Any advice for other people?

F.G.

03-17-2015, 05:47 PM

My advice is walk the course before the event starts. It can get pretty confusing once at speed. Also, don't try and go all out on the first lap, its better to figure out the course and apexes at a moderate speed. If you plan on doing this more than once, get a set of tires that you'll use exclusively for autocross. After only 6 laps, my brand new tires are now showing quite a bit of wear. Also, make sure your brakes are in good working order.

popo8

03-18-2015, 04:33 AM

Awesome man! Thank you.

F.G.

01-10-2016, 10:45 PM

Alright guys, its been way too long since I have updated this thread. I have been very busy with work and school, but here it goes.

Late spring last year, I had my car dynoed at MSD headquarters at an event they had. To my surprise, it did worse than when I dynoed it when it was stock. I had noticed that the car didn't feel as strong as it used to, and I could hear it breaking up on the top end while it was on the rollers. Here is the dyne sheet, if you guys see anything obviously wrong please let me know lol. (The car did 247 rwhp/295 rwtq stock)

http://i1308.photobucket.com/albums/s619/fgarcia383/IMG_07931_zpsahi26uwl.jpg (http://s1308.photobucket.com/user/fgarcia383/media/IMG_07931_zpsahi26uwl.jpg.html)

Late last summer, my car was running very hot. Even on the highway, it would run hotter than I liked it to. I decided to bite the bullet and bought a Dewitts aluminum radiator. I'm extremely pleased with how cool the car runs. Even better is the fact that if the temps get past 210, they drop very quickly now. Unfortunately, all the pictures I had of my radiator were lost when I got my new phone.

Fast forward to november, when I noticed the car was having a hard time to start and the exhaust was very rich. I did some trouble shooting, and found that the FPR was bad, as there was fuel in the vacuum hose. Also, four of my injectors were also leaking, and as a result of all this, there was fuel in the oil. I decided to replace the FPR with an AC Delco unit, and I bought bosch injectors from FIC. I also decided to swap spark plugs, get new o2 sensors and change the oil to get rid of all the contamination.

I'm very busy with work, so I have only been able to work on the car a couple of hours a week.

http://i1308.photobucket.com/albums/s619/fgarcia383/IMG_08361_zpsvr4ljasf.jpg (http://s1308.photobucket.com/user/fgarcia383/media/IMG_08361_zpsvr4ljasf.jpg.html)

http://i1308.photobucket.com/albums/s619/fgarcia383/IMG_07861_zps8vg9tmhb.jpg (http://s1308.photobucket.com/user/fgarcia383/media/IMG_07861_zps8vg9tmhb.jpg.html)

Changing spark plugs on these cars is always a challenge, specially with long tubes. I also found that I don't have the patience for this stuff like i used to :\ I was struggling until I went and bought this little tool
http://i1308.photobucket.com/albums/s619/fgarcia383/IMG_07901_zpsncchuxmr.jpg (http://s1308.photobucket.com/user/fgarcia383/media/IMG_07901_zpsncchuxmr.jpg.html)

http://i1308.photobucket.com/albums/s619/fgarcia383/IMG_07911_zpss1uq3z0l.jpg (http://s1308.photobucket.com/user/fgarcia383/media/IMG_07911_zpss1uq3z0l.jpg.html)

This pass-through ratchet and short socket cut down the time significantly.

Thats it for now, I don't work on wednesday, so I'm going to get up early to hopefully finish everything up. I haven't driven it since november and I'm anxious to see if the car will run stronger than when it was on the dyno.

popo8

01-11-2016, 06:36 AM

Glad to see ur still working on it. Keep us updated.

LTXtech.com IS my drug...
OWNER/ADMIN

F.G.

01-11-2016, 07:03 PM

Will do, and I don't see myself ever getting rid of it. It's here to stay:)

popo8

01-11-2016, 07:47 PM

.... I don't see myself ever getting rid of it. It's here to stay:)

Good.

LTXtech.com IS my drug...
OWNER/ADMIN

F.G.

01-14-2016, 01:11 AM

My goal was to finish the car up today but the fuel pressure regulator fought me for some reason and I ran out of time. All that's left is to change out the o2 sensors and change the oil. I'll get that done tomorrow and take her out for a drive.

F.G.

01-17-2016, 09:40 PM

Well, I finished the car on thursday, and I'm happy with the results. The car idles a lot smoother, theres no longer a miss anywhere in the RPM range, the hard start issue is gone, and its no longer running rich. On top of that, it feels more powerful, I was surprised it spun the tires just accelerating normally.

On a side note, I accidentally ordered stock replacement o2 sensors, instead of heated o2's so now I have to wait for the new ones to come in.

popo8

01-17-2016, 09:43 PM

Great news man...

LTXtech.com IS my drug...
OWNER/ADMIN

96z28SideSwype

01-19-2016, 10:33 PM

Hey how well did that wrench work was it still a pin to do the plugs or did it cut down on the cussing and walking away I think I need to do mine soon that's why

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F.G.

01-29-2016, 11:17 PM

Hey how well did that wrench work was it still a pin to do the plugs or did it cut down on the cussing and walking away I think I need to do mine soon that's why

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It cut down on a lot of frustration and on a lot of time. I still had to use a traditional spark plug socket on some of the plugs. I got it for 21 bucks at harbor freight with an assortment of sockets to go with it.

F.G.

03-19-2016, 07:32 PM

Just a small update. One of my fan motors started making noise, kind of like a helicopter lol. I had both motors replaced while it was at my buddy's shop getting a trans fluid change and exhaust hanger fixed. On to bigger news, The other day I went to put the targa top back on the car when it slipped and hit the ground. One of the corners got a bit of damage and the top got scratched up. The left rear quarter also got a bit of damage since the top hit the quarter panel before hitting the floor. The good news is I received a quote that is too good to pass up, to fix the damage and paint my hood, front bumper, mirrors and top, which are now faded. The car should be going in for paint on Tuesday and I'm very excited.

popo8

03-20-2016, 07:24 AM

F.G.

03-20-2016, 09:54 PM

Yea I was pissed at first, but if it hadn't happened I wouldn't be painting the car any time soon.

popo8

03-23-2016, 04:36 AM

Yea I was pissed at first, but if it hadn't happened I wouldn't be painting the car any time soon.
"Everything happens for a reason."

LTXtech.com IS my drug...
OWNER/ADMIN

F.G.

05-24-2016, 10:58 PM

Its been a while since I posted anything, I've been working almost non-stop, but I did get my car back from paint a couple of weeks ago. I had them paint the trim around the windshield back to semi gloss and I bought an NOS nose emblem from GM to freshen the car up even more.

When I first got it back, it had a few swirl marks from them polishing the paint. Luckily I was able to remove them with Mequiars scratchX. That stuff works miracles if used properly.

I also added some stripes on the hood to make it stand out from other C4's that have been popping up in town lately. And finally, I waxed it for some shine and protection.

http://i1308.photobucket.com/albums/s619/fgarcia383/IMG_14851_zpsr1vwqhtk.jpg (http://s1308.photobucket.com/user/fgarcia383/media/IMG_14851_zpsr1vwqhtk.jpg.html)

http://i1308.photobucket.com/albums/s619/fgarcia383/IMG_14861_zpsvqju4upt.jpg (http://s1308.photobucket.com/user/fgarcia383/media/IMG_14861_zpsvqju4upt.jpg.html)

http://i1308.photobucket.com/albums/s619/fgarcia383/IMG_14881_zps0ljusm6h.jpg (http://s1308.photobucket.com/user/fgarcia383/media/IMG_14881_zps0ljusm6h.jpg.html)

http://i1308.photobucket.com/albums/s619/fgarcia383/IMG_14741_zps747ct7tc.jpg (http://s1308.photobucket.com/user/fgarcia383/media/IMG_14741_zps747ct7tc.jpg.html)

I'm now saving up for weatherstripping. Money is a bit tight since I started school again just so I can finally finish with my degree, and my girl and I are also trying to buy a house soon. Nevertheless, this car will not be neglected.

popo8

05-24-2016, 11:09 PM

She is looking great man!!!

LTXtech.com IS my drug...
OWNER/ADMIN

F.G.

05-25-2016, 12:18 AM

She is looking great man!!!

LTXtech.com IS my drug...
OWNER/ADMIN

Thanks man! Im glad I got it painted, it looks so much better. I've gotten a few offers from people wanting to buy it. Someone even went to the body shop to try to buy it. I'll never sell it though, I'm attached to it.

popo8

05-25-2016, 05:03 AM

Thanks man! Im glad I got it painted, it looks so much better. I've gotten a few offers from people wanting to buy it. Someone even went to the body shop to try to buy it. I'll never sell it though, I'm attached to it.
Thats great man. I get it. I miss my c4 all the time...

LTXtech.com IS my drug...
OWNER/ADMIN

F.G.

11-06-2016, 04:02 PM

A couple of weeks ago I finished the weatherstripping and blacked out the lights (I'll have pics when I get my car back), then it started running bad. I'd accelerate and it felt strong, then all of a sudden it would completely cut out. No stumbling, the rpm would just drop. Then it would continue running strong. It's so weird. Idle was also fluctuating after that and the car would sometimes die on me while idling. I immediately took the car to my buddy's shop to have him diagnose it as well as fix some small stuff here and there like header exhaust leaks and a new oil leak. While it's in there he's also going to do some maintenance such as spark plugs and coil etc. I mentioned to him I wanted to do a cam swap sometime soon and he said he'd be able to get me whatever parts I wanted at a discount. Well my girl and I are weeks away from buying our first house so I figured after the house was here it would probably be years till I'd be able to dump a large amount of money into this car. Therefore the decision was made to go ahead and do the swap now.

This is will be a mild setup since there won't be any money left for a gear swap(expensive in C4's) and so I can use a mail order tune for an extended period.

im going with the comp cams 502 as well as comp 1.6 RR, comp 918 springs, their lifters, pushrods, timing set, new oil pump drive gear, gasket set, new cap and rotor (if it doesn't need a whole new opti) etc. still trying to decide on a tuner @MoeHorsePower (http://ltxtech.com/forums/member.php?u=1487) ?

SSlowBoat

11-06-2016, 04:52 PM

Fastbird

11-06-2016, 07:32 PM

SSlowBoat

11-06-2016, 07:41 PM

Tubby Z28 I'm actually going to disagree with you. I think the CC502 is a PERFECT cam choice for a stock headed car. The 503 will work and make just a tad bit more power, but the 502 comes on a lot harder under the curve and has a broader powerband. It's a REALLY good stock head cam for a mild setup, and should make around 345-350 RWHP AND RWTQ with supporting mods.
I made that with a hotcam and bolt ons. I was just thinkin he wont have to change the cam later if he goes bigger heads to make even more. My hotcam bolt on car would pull a half a car on a le2 headed 228/234 cam full bolt on car up to 5500, then he would walk back up. Either that was oddly a good combo (had 2.73 gears and stock stall LOL) or there was somethint funky about my combo

Op, have you considered having NightTrain66 (lloyd) spec a cam for the combo? He charges $300 for a cast core custom grind for your build. he also sells and recommends valve springs etc.

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F.G.

11-06-2016, 08:28 PM

I made that with a hotcam and bolt ons. I was just thinkin he wont have to change the cam later if he goes bigger heads to make even more. My hotcam bolt on car would pull a half a car on a le2 headed 228/234 cam full bolt on car up to 5500, then he would walk back up. Either that was oddly a good combo (had 2.73 gears and stock stall LOL) or there was somethint funky about my combo

Op, have you considered having @NightTrain66 (http://ltxtech.com/forums/member.php?u=2975) (lloyd) spec a cam for the combo? He charges $300 for a cast core custom grind for your build. he also sells and recommends valve springs etc

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G935A using Tapatalk
Fastbird thats exactly what I want out of this cam. @Tubbyz28 It does feel like the opti. The first time it failed six years ago, the symptoms were not exactly the same, but it just feels like it. The original plan was to do a complete LE2 combo, but that would require a lot more money. I got everything for the swap all the way down to the gaskets for $625 all brand new from Comp Cams. My buddy who owns the shop got it all for pretty much half off. Now all I gotta worry about is getting a good tune.

I'm definitely not cutting any corners, its all getting done right with good parts, but it is also a budget build because our new house (payments, etc) is priority from now on.

NightTrain66

11-07-2016, 10:26 AM

if you are trying to get away with a stock converter and stock (2.59-3.08) gears, I would stay below 220 duration.

The CC 502 is an OK choice depending on what springs, rockers, etc ytou plan on using. This can will work with inexpensive springs, rockers, pushrods, etc.

We can also do a 215/224 .533/.533 112 LSA cam that works with less expensive springs, rockers, pushrods, etc.

If using $230 dbl spring kit, Lunati Voodoo or Comp Ultra Pro Mag rockers, $100 pushrords, etc we can do something like a 214/222 .565/.562 112 LSA up to a 215/223 .597/.610 112 LSA cam depending on how long the springs need to live.

Lloyd

F.G.

11-07-2016, 11:11 PM

NightTrain66 Thank you for the suggestions, if I had the budget to go custom cam, I'd definitely be going with you.

All the parts have been ordered for several days now, so I'm just waiting on them to come in. I'm using comp 918 springs and comp magnum rockers 1.6 ratio, along with their pushrods. A big reason I went with this cam etc. is because I was able to get every part at "cost" from a local speed shop my mechanic does business with. Also, the car does have an FTI 3200 stall, gears will unfortunately remain stock for at least a year.

NightTrain66

11-08-2016, 09:23 AM

I'm sure the car will run fine with that cam.

That duration is about what you need.

Lloyd

popo8

02-06-2018, 04:37 PM

I know uve beem posting around the forum latley... hows the progress with the vette going?

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