FE-FC Holden Discussion Forum

Hi all,since I have nearly finished my BSA,I decided it was time to get on with the poor old Black FC.I put the Grey FC in storage for the time being and the Black FC has taken up pride of place in the shed.After 3 hours I had it stripped to the shell (plus motor and front end) and to be honest,was pretty dissapointed with the amount of rust I found in the floor and sills/subframe(doors are in excellent nick/front guards,not so good).It hasn't turned me off but I would love to see some horror rust stories that have been repaired and are still going strong so feel free to post on this thread.Have since stripped the paint off the boot lid.I will persist because there just seems to be something "Special" about having an original all black FC.Will keep you updated as I can.

As I found it....
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FC028.jpg)
Quick wash...

(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture154.jpg)

Saturday,into it....
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture125.jpg)
3 hours later...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture138-1.jpg)
Rust......
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture142.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture136.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture135.jpg)
Cheers,Jamie.

Good to see progress, I think all the cars that are "projects" will have rust unless you get really lucky.
Keep the updates coming, you may not get the replies but you'll see the traffic come thorugh 30+ hits already.

nice start,

now start a new thread about the BSA>

Cheers

Ed
 ;D

fibre max and nu steel can do wonders. floor looks pretty good .50 year old cars are always rusty.don't be disappointed it must be expected.hopefully you can weld.if not it could become expensive.
waynos

Hey Waynos

Can you give me a bit more information on Fibre max and Nu steel.  Who handles these products.

Keith

Thanks for your replies guys,much appreciated.Thankfully I can weld and fabricate and have all the gear to do it.Most of the rust was nicely concealed under the bitumen sound deadener,so made the car look pretty good from the outside.Luckily the interior is in great nick.While I managed to get the headlining out in one piece and without a mark,I have been told it is very difficult to put back in as they are generally very brittle.Has anyone done this as I would love to reuse it if possible?

Interior...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture157.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture152.jpg)
One of the BSA,just waiting for the tank and seat to come back...

(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture045.jpg)
Cheers,Jamie.

Jamie,
            FC looks like a great basis for a resto, just remember these models started rusting from the factory!!!  Persist and you will reap the benefits no doubt 8)

I haven't tried personally, but I would suggest doing it on a hot day and have a hair dryer or heat gun handy. The hotter weather will make the vinyl softer and easier to work with and less prone to ripping or cracking.
You'll be "up against it" with the stitching though (see my comments in the Irish FC thread) as it tends to become brittle with age and breaks very easily.

if ur getting things done that quikley u will be finished in no time ;D

not really sure how well it will work with old vinyl but you could always try and use steam. get an electric kettle, sit it in the middle of the cars floor with seats out and boil the crap outta the jug ( or be smarter and use a steamer), it may soften the vinyl enough. it works well for easing the creases out from a newly installed hoodlining and less chance of burning than a hairdryer. or maybe even try using some sort of vinyl / leather conditioning stuff for a while before trying to remove it ?
stinky is the man to ask for interior questions though..

good luck
dean

that is a GREAT numberplate!

wow  ;D another black one ,good stuff, im just about finished the body work on mine,and all the frount end & rear end all done,  cheers Alfio :)

fibre max is a stringy fibreglass bog which is great cause it doesn't let any moisture back in to get to the rust like normal body filler does.nu steel is much the same but i think it's stainless metal strands (could be very wrong)but it is a real bitch to grind.obviously the fibreemax is a bitch too with the dust (get a good mask )but is much easier.i like to weld wherever possible but sometimes this is a better option.at the moment got rust in sill right near sub-frame.using these products.not happy about it but don;t wanna rip the front off for the moment.will fix properly when the real motor goes in.

you shouldnt fill rust holes with bog but if you do, allways start with fibreglass bog, as waynos says it stops the moisture getting through were normal car bog is porous and lets moisture spread and make rust again, same with welds, you should grind em down and go over the weld with fibreglass then put your normal bog over the top, you can use epoxy primer under the fibreglas, otherwise bare metal, dont bog on rust, primer (except epoxy primer)or paint the only way to have metal free of rust is to sandblast it or acid treat it, try to get it covered within about a hour or re do the acid.
 ask your loacal auto paint shop about epoxy primers, its the modern way and is a big advantage when you have a big job that is going to take some time becuase unlike normal 2k primers epoxy holds the moisture out much longer and you dont want to get half the car done only to find the when you are doing the other half that the first half has absorbed moisture requiring it to be redone.
 the rust isd going to be a pain in the arse, the pillars are more complex than they look but unfortunately most of these old cars need all new floor sections and iner outer sills and subframes replaced anyway.

if you have kids and a wife or work long hours or have no money and or have no shed or a tiny shed it could be a tuff journey.

Thanks for all your comments guys.FCCool,I have had a bit of experience with bog/fibreglass and the consequences of putting it over rust but I do appreciate your input either way.I figured I would be replacing the sills as an absolute minimum but may be able to avoid doing the floor pans as well as the rust is only on the very outsides near the sills.This car looks like it was driven on a lot of muddy roads as there was a lot of mud still caked under it everywhere and the sills were full of it.Have already organised a local guy to sand blast the shell as we ( Local SA) don't have a Soda blast yet and it will cost me about $1800 to get the whole car dipped.I'll spend the money on getting it blasted first,then on the sections that he can't blast (Flat Panels/roof) I'll use a strip disc (fibre) then Deoxidine to kill the surface rust.I have had success with this method in the past.More photo's to follow,Cheers,Jamie.

if i was you i would get it plastic blasting ,like what i did to my black 058, inside out ,underneath have a look at my post cheers AlfioM

sorry guys i dont like putting body filler over holes  :o, either cut it out or leaded, if you put all that work into a classic, make it last as long as you can,cheers Alfio THE CLASSIC RESCUER  ;)

Thanks for the answer to the question re nu steel and fibre glass bog.  I can see the uses now.  I only have a couple of small holes in the angle part of the boot down to the bottom of the rear quarter panel.  Very easy to get to so will borrow a plasma cutter and Mig welder an do the job properly. Not keen on patching it up with bog.

Keith

 ;)
Jamie,

If you want some rust pics I'll put some of my FE Wagon up (when I get home)to show you what I had to deal with when I started. I was told I was mad to try to bring it back to life.

Cheers Rusty

same here, lots of people told me i needed to find a better body but i didnt, now the rust is behind me, just got the rest to do.

 :)

Jamie ,here are some pics of the rust that I turn into a nice looking car.

Rusty(http://i166.photobucket.com/albums/u98/Rusty_T_bucket/Project2290034.jpg)(http://i166.photobucket.com/albums/u98/Rusty_T_bucket/Project2290006.jpg)(http://i166.photobucket.com/albums/u98/Rusty_T_bucket/Project2290024.jpg)

 ;)
Jamie,

As you can see the floor was totally not there .the guards were just MUD guards. It took a long time but the end result was well worth the effort.The car is not to far off being finished.Here is a pic of the finished floorand other bits.

Rusty(http://i166.photobucket.com/albums/u98/Rusty_T_bucket/Project2290040.jpg)(http://i166.photobucket.com/albums/u98/Rusty_T_bucket/Project2290036.jpg)(http://i166.photobucket.com/albums/u98/Rusty_T_bucket/Project2290047.jpg)(http://i166.photobucket.com/albums/u98/Rusty_T_bucket/Project2290050.jpg)

Thanks heaps for the photos Rusty.I guess I had always intended to persist with the car anyway as it does have a lot of good points.The title was just a method of getting some opinions and thoughts on the project.Bootlid in nearly finished,will post photos soon.Cheers,Jamie.

Hey Jamie,
 we do have a club member with his own blasting business and has started soda blasting, Steve had a trade stand at the gazza nats with an xy ute half done and my 5 gal harley tanks half done brings metal back to a polished shiny as new appearance can blast car unstripped as you probably know it wont harm chrome or glass etc. and other positives.
cheers
Scott

Just got back from holidays and did a bit more on the bootlid this week
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture084.jpg),
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture082.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture083.jpg)
only a couple of small dings to deal with,will start on the doors next week.Always hard to get a lot done at this time of year.....silly season...cheers Jamie.

Hello,

     Mark Finney of Finney motor trimming removed and refitted my headling he is located at Kemps Creek NSW his no. is0417 669951, he did a terrific job as all other upholturers I spoke told me I'd have to replace it if I removed it but it didn't phase him one bit.

            hope this helps
                        Frank

Hi Frank.I'm in SA and have since spoken to a senior club member (Super dooper profesional auto trimmer ;D) who has given me the run down.Thanks anyway.Cheers Jamie.

Had a small chance to get a bit done on Sunday just gone....Got the boot lid Deoxodined and etch primed,the steering column and dash out and the whole front clip off.Man those front outer Y frame bolts are a pain as they had swollen up with rust and jammed solid.Unfortunately had to use brute force in the form of the grinder.The Diff....now that's another story.Not out yet,but will be soon.Front shackle bolts have the same problem,rusted and swollen I expect.Any advice on extracting these is appreciated.Shell will go off to sand blasters in a week or so.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FCrebuild1.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture165.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture163.jpg)
More updates soon,cheers,Jamie.

Jamie,
             How bad is the subframe??  Ive got a ute I just picked up, sills stuffed, front bottom a pillars stuffed and more...... but its fixable and the old things are getting harder to get.  Ive only got a few patch jobs to do on the subframe.  I spose if your prepared to do it over time it pays off!!!!!  Good luck with it cause in the end its more than worth it 8)

Hi Tayz,whoops...sideplate.I am quite passionate about restoring this car since I first started because I want to make an example of what can be done to something that looks too far gone (I know plenty of people on this forum have already proved this...)The sills and floor are not great but from there up,the car is in pretty good nick.All the hanging panels except the front guards are almost spotless as well as the interior,so I am prepared to do what it takes to get this one looking real sweet again.Was a bit disappointed to find (tonight) that the engine is not original (B127114).Hadn't previously looked at the engine number,but from what I understand,an original engine should start with an L?Thanks for your reply,Cheers,Jamie.

Well today after I finished work at 1.00pm,got home and went straight to the shed.Not too sure where my motivation came from as it was 42 degrees here today!The Black FC is now officially a "shell".Started building the rotisserie this afternoon.Stay tuned...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture178.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture177.jpg)
Cheers,Jamie.

And just a couple more questions,what brand is this heater box which was originally installed in this car?Should I repair this box and reinstall it or just weld up the holes in the firewall?It is unique so I may just try to repair it (very rusty).
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture181.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture182.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture183.jpg)
Cheers,Jamie.

It spins!I finished the rotisserie last thursday and spent most of the weekend working so didn't get much done underneath except for the removal of about 15 kilo's of dirt and built up crap.Ordered the sills and floor today so should get them in the the next couple of days.Will have to fabricate a new piece of the subframe that fits in the tunnel as this is also rusted out and I dont think is available as a spare.Off to the blaster next week hopefully.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture709.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture710.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture711.jpg)
More soon,Cheers Jamie.

Hi all.My floor sections and sill panels arrived on Saturday and I must say that I think the quality of these parts is average to say the least(they look OK in the photos!).The only problem is,what are the alternatives?NOS sills and floors are pretty thin on the ground these days and when you do see them,they are a million dollars each!Anyway it's just lucky that I have some metal fab skills to fix them.I would certainly caution anyone who thought they could just buy these parts and stick them in with no other work needed!I did a 67 hour week this week so all I got time to do was to unstitch one sill so the sand blaster can blast the inner sill.Hopefully I get this weekend off so I can get some more done....
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture713.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture733.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture735.jpg)
More soon,Cheers,Jamie.

67 hour week??  sounds like more money for RUDD and some more for the FC 8) 8)  looking real good jamie.  I bloody gave away a set of nos sills a few years ago, Im trying to get them back, hopefully I will.  Your work looks like its going real well, keep it up!!!!!
                                                                                                      Paul

I'm about to build a jig like yours Jamie.
Did you create a 'cut list' of materials and follow a 'plan' or just build it as you went?

Hi guys.I really appreciate your comments,was starting to think everyone had lost interest ;D.You are absolutely spot on about the money Tayz.Rabbitoh,with regards to the cut list,as you can see from these photos,the front bracket was done on the fly and I think it turned out great.The back was made from the tow bar which was on the car when I got it.I just cut off the tongue and welded on the supports.I made sure that I didn't change the stands to a point where they couldn't still be used as engine stands.The extra height I added brings them up to a better working height anyway.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture701.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture738.jpg)
More soon,Cheers,Jamie.

Get stuffed, no way :)

Just because not everyone responds with comments does not mean we are absolutely loving following your build. I know I am. Keep up the photos.

Cheers M

Keep up the good work Jamie.

You're right about the floor panels, they are pretty ordinary. NOS is near impossible to find, for Nev's rebuild (here http://fefcholden.org.au/forum/index.php/topic,10350.0.html) I found some older repro floor sections ( at the time I thought they were NOS) which were excellent, don't know who made them. I used as little of Rares sections as I could get away with. The only option is to try to find a better floor :-\.

Cheers
John

Good stuff Jamie, I am following your progress with interest as I hope to start on my project soon. The closeups of the rotisserie is a great help.I suppose the hardest part is getting started and pulling the first bits off the car! Anyway keep those pics coming, Cheers Dave ::)

Hi Jamie
I have been watching and waiting for progress updates. I will try and remember to give you some encouraging comments in the future.

Cheers Jim

PS. Keep up the good work, on the car that is.

Hey guys,no stress.It was actually a bit of joke ( hence the smily)Does anyone have any answers to the earlier questions about the heater box?Cheers,Jamie.

I've been looking for some info I think I have somewhere on that heater. I think it is a Smiths heater and I would say if it is working OK, then keep it

Ken

Hi all when i got my fe ute home the only thing holding the tank in was the fuel line! i have changed the entire floor end to end as well as replaced chassis sections sills and spring hangers but 28 years under a gum tree will do that everyone said why bother? but i just ploughed on  knowing it could be done  looking at starting it up in couple of weeks (cant wait!) 30 years between starts is a long time :D

Hi guys,been a few weeks since the last post as I have still been flat out at work.Black FC was delivered to the sand blaster a couple of weeks ago and I get her back this weekend (YeeHaa!).While it's been away,I have taken the opportunity to get on with the hanging panels.The drivers door was absolutely spotless and came up a treat.The passenger side had a couple of small spots which I am repairing at the moment.The back door has a fairly big ding in it and a big spot of rust in one corner.

(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture770.jpg)
Paint stripped,
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture771.jpg)
Fibre disk and deoxidine,
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture773.jpg)
Etch primed.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture780.jpg)
Passenger front door,
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture781.jpg)
Rust cut out,and patch fitted,
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture783.jpg)
Stay tuned,pick up the shell on Saturday then more photo's.Cheers,Jamie.

Well, she's back.Picked the car up today and was very impressed with the job.I have had a good look over the body and there is nothing unexpected,just more obvious.At least now I can tackle cutting out all the bits that were rusty and get some fresh metal in there.Started repairing some of the small bits today.The sandblaster also commented that this was the most balanced rotisserie he has ever seen.I was pretty happy with that seeing as how I only built it from photo's I've seen on this forum!Will be flat out posting over the next few weeks so stay tuned....
 (http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture784.jpg)
Back in Black!Do you like the rare Nasco aerials on the roof.....
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture787.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture788.jpg)
Lots of daylight coming through that floor!
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture790.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture789.jpg)
More soon.Cheers,Jamie.

Nice start Jamie, thanks for keeping us, er, posted ;D

Cheers
John

Great start Jamie,
I will be watching your project with great interest as I am just about to embark on a project myself. At least you know what you have to deal with now. I am not at that stage yet. Good luck and keep at it ;)

Looking forward to the next installment Jamie,Great stuff!
Cheers
Deano.

Hi Jamie,

It looks like you have a fair bit of rebuilding work to do. But you have definitely started about things in the right way. Blasting back to nothing and starting from scratch is the only way to go to do the job properly.

Look forward to seeing more updates & keep up the good work.

Cheers

Mal

G'day Jamie,

Just about at the same stage you are so I am watching your progress with lots of interest.  Just a question, when the shell came back from the blaster the pick on the trailer seemed to have her covered in black primer?  Was this a finish the blaster put on it?  Did you do the light panels like the rear quarters or did they blast the whole lot because it looks great.

Cheers mate and keep the pics coming you are helping me out heaps.

Nige

Hi guys,great to get your responses.Nige,the sandblaster did the whole car and primed it also so that I didn't have to worry about it.I know it's not hard,but time consuming and I didn't want to run the risk of the shell getting wet in bare metal.He was very particular with regards to the right amount of air pressure to use as to not distort the the panels.He won't do hanging panels though as he does not want the risk of damaging big flat panels.I have been away all this week with work but have posted some pics of the rust I have cut out so far.Starting on the small stuff and working my way down.We have a week of over 35 coming up so possibly not too much happening this week.See how we go....
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture795.jpg)
Drivers door jamb
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture803.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture804.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture806.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture797.jpg)
under back seat
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture799.jpg)
More soon.Cheers,Jamie.

Nice work mate..............

I have to get my pergola finished before I can start mine............. Sound familiar??? ;D

Looking good jamie, glad to see did it properly and didn't just cover the rust with bog 8).

I'm Back!Although I didn't actually go anywhere.A virus killed my computer (Pandex Trojan) and it just goes to show that even if you think you are protected by your antivirus software (Norton 360),you're not.Well,if you think I've been slack you'd be dead wrong.Has taken me three weeks to get my computer up and functional again and in that time I have made a fair progression with the Black FC,although it doesn't look like I've done much.Here's a few more...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture851.jpg)
I fabricated a new centre crossmember as mentioned in another thread
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture820-1.jpg)
The boss bought a new sheet metal brake for work so I used it to make up new outer sills and front crossmember extensions..
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture855.jpg)
Rebuilt both left and right subframe bulkheads (what a pain in the a** this was)...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture860.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture865.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture880.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture931.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture886.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture899.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture917.jpg)
Old inner sill is out...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture919.jpg)
New inner sill in...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture925.jpg)
Rear floor section out...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture929.jpg)
New floor section in...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture940.jpg)
Front floor section out...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture942.jpg)
New floor section in...
More photo's real soon.Sorry for the wait...Cheers,Jamie

Jamie
Looking great, keep up the good work and the occasional update.

Cheers Jim

Hi Jamie,
You should be proud - excellent job that most people would have given up on after stripping. It will be a credit to your dedication and craftmanship when finished.
Cheers, tonyh

Comments like yours Tony and Jim (and everyone else that has replied or viewed this post) is the reason I don't give up.....Cheers,Jamie...

Absolutely love the work that you are doing, good to see you are doing it properly and not a half hearted attempt, great work keep the photo's coming

hey Jamie,

top quality work.

keep those pics rollin'

Cheers

Ed

Why does a good tradesman make it look far easier than it realy is ???
Now if that was me tryin all those repairs  ......well ::)

Keep up the great work, and the good posts Jamie


regards
Weddo

Great work Jamie, I'll have to drop by for a look one day.

Thanks for all the great comments guys.Whenever you want to have a look Glenn just let me know.Weddo,as mentioned in the "crossmember fabrication" post I did,I am actually a Electronic technician and am doing my second year of adult apprenticeship in Electrotechnology (Electrician) but have always loved metal fabrication but have never done any "official" training apart from high school (I built a racekart frame)...Have done a bit more on Black FC this week including removing both inner and outer passenger side sill panels.Got a couple of small repairs to do before the inner sill goes back on.Might have to work this weekend,but if I don't I will hopefully be starting the floor sections on the passenger side.More soon.Cheers,Jamie.

Hi Jamie

Wow our cars really are the prince and the pauper of non-identical twins.  Mine had a pretty good life right from scratch and when it got rebuilt it had less than a palm-full of rust in the entire car and it had never travelled a dirt road.  Yours well, what can I say, I think it had maybe a winky bit more rust than mine and maybe it had never travelled a sealed road!  ;)

The red and black interior looks great and you just have to consider wide whites against the black paint - they look soooooo good!  :D (yep I'm biased)

What are your plans - resto, mini mod/classic custom, or major modifications? 

Keep up the good work!  We'll go cruizin' one day and knock everyone's eyes out!  :o :o

Kathi  8)

Thanks Kathi,and you are right in saying that I don't think my car has been all that well looked after during it's life with regards to the dirt roads.What you probably can't see is that every thing from the floor up is in pretty good nick (except the front guards,that mud thing again...) including being very straight.Most of the hanging panels are spotless.The chrome is also in fantastic condition with the exception of a small ding in the front bumper.It was after seeing the photos of your car that Stinky posted on one of my other posts (Red or white walls/stripe) that I saw how good the white walls look on black cars.The plans are to keep this car quite stock while using the twin carb Warneford manifold and Speco twin exhaust manifolds,alloy rocker cover,remote oil filter,scratch plates,Air Chief radio,wider steelies with original caps and Smiths gauges.More pics soon.Cheers,Jamie.

Hi Jamie

At least you had some good wins with the rust and the condition of the rest of the body and chrome.  The trim looked in pretty good nick too.   

I must say, a man after my own heart with your plans - looks like it's a really nice little custom classic in the making.  :D

Looking forward to some more pics of its progress.

Kathi  8)

Hang in there guys....more photos soon.Cheers,Jamie.

Back again with more pics.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture951.jpg)
Passenger side inner sill out....
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture961.jpg)
New inner sill in....
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture949.jpg)
Bit of bracing added to mantian alignment of B pillar...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture967.jpg)
Extra gusset added where the new inner sill meets the bulkhead...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture971.jpg)
More rust repairs...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture973.jpg)
done...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture990.jpg)
other side done....
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture976.jpg)
Front passenger side floor out...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture980.jpg)
New floor in...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture983.jpg)
Back passenger side out...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture985.jpg)
new floor in...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture991.jpg)
All floor basically done,just a few bits to tidy up.Start on the rear quarters in the next few days hopefully then back on it's wheels!More soon,Jamie.

Good progress Jamie - we'll be able to cruise in no time!  8)

Kathi  8)
F4+ =^{^^}=

Hi Jamie
Thought I would bump your rebuild as its been a few weeks since we received an update.

Cheers Jim

Thanks Jim.It has been a slow few weeks as far as Black FC goes due to me having my final exam (capstone) for my electrical apprenticeship so I had to spend a week studying and a week of review at trade school.Anyway,I passed with 82.5% so now I can get on with the FC again.Got two weeks holiday starting tomorrow but unfortunately first week taken up by painting the rest of the house inside Doh!Hopefully will be spending the whole of next week finishing the outer sills and rear quarters then back on it's wheels.That will be an exciting day!I am pleased to see that you guys are still checking up on me.Sorry for not having any new photos at this stage.I have four months and one week to get it finished before life as I know it will undoubtedly change forever....(another exciting day)I'm sure you can work the rest of that statement out for yourself. ;) More pics real soon so hang in there.Cheers,Jamie. :)

Hi Jamie
There are only two reasons that a mans life would change for ever.
 
1.    Marriage, Is the obvious choice, but really it just the process of life, every boy becomes a man and eventually needs his own wife to do the thing a wife does.
      Washing
      Ironing
      Food, and
      Entertainment

2.   The second is from taking the entertainment factor a little to serious, creating pregnancy, baby, bills, poverty and many years of love and joy.

I also have 4 months 1 week and 3 days (12 Nov) until our nearly 14 year DINK life style changes.

Cheers Jim

Step one, tick...step two....tick....Wish me luck!And congrats to you too mate. ;)

Well,this is my second week of holidays and unfortunately the progress on Black FC has been slow (did a lot of driving around today).Here's a couple pics of what has happened so far this week.Got the repair done on the passenger side lower dog leg and mounted drivers side doors so as to set the outer sill panel gaps.Looks good with doors on,pitty the have to come off again. :-[ It is amazing how much time gets burnt up in simple things like spending about 3 hours wire wheeling all the crap off the door hinges and bolts.More soon.Cheers Jamie.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture993a.jpg)
Big piece of rust cut out...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture997a.jpg)
New patch made up...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1006a.jpg)
And fitted...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1011a.jpg)

Hey Jamie,
love ya work mate :D, i ve had a chance to see this first hand and its as good as it looks,
its a credit to you.it will continue.......
cheers
Scott

Jamie
Thanks for the update, she ill be like a new car by the time you finish. Keep up the great work it will be well worth all the effort once you finish.

Cheers Jim

Thanks for the replies guys.It's gonna have to continue,I've spent too much bloody time on it to give up now....The thing that occurred to me the other day which sometimes you forget is that as you mentioned Jim,the car will be like new when it's done.Obviously not quite new but at least there will be (no.... ::))very little rust left in it (there will always be some,somewhere).What I mean is that all the work you put is not immediately evident,but down the track it will pay off.I have the drivers outer sill in position and tacked on.Hope to have some more photos for you in the next couple days.Cheers,Jamie.

Nice work Jamie, and nice shed, what's covered up in the background?

Cheers

Ed

Hey Ed,do you mean the bike or the car?You've seen the BSA,the car is a one owner FJ standard sedan.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picturea.jpg)
I also picked up this little gem yesterday of which there is not a lot left but I need the steering column and a few other bits for the next project.....down the track....one at a time..
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/EK1a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/EK2a.jpg)
Cheer,Jamie.

This is looking like a very comprehensive rebuild Jamie, keep at it, starting to take shape!
Regards Gary

PS are you going to use the Auto front floor & hump from the EK for your next project?

Gary,my other FC already has the CRS hump in it which is why I have decided to modify that car.There is practically no floor left in the Ek.... ::)

thanks for indulging me Jamie, could see there was a car under a sheet in the background.

looks like you've been busy collecting stuff too, is that Nasco lichen?

Cheers

Ed

Hey Ed, I'm lichen your joke ::) :D :D
                        Pedro

C'mon Pedro, you moss be joking  ???  :P

I had a look first hand at Jamie's progress today, first class work and given the quality of some of the repair panels, it is an absolute credit to his metal working skills. I'll be the first one knockin on his door if he opens a panel shop  ;D

Couldn't help myself, i was just having some fun gus, I agree with you on the quality of the work Jamie is doing, nice neat welds with plenty of penetration, keep up the pics we all enjoy seeing another car coming together.
                                   Pedro

You just beat me to that one Pedro.Thanks for the nice comments guys they are appreciated.Not much chance of me opening a panel shop Glenn,I'd need to be a fair bit quicker than I am at the moment...As I mentioned,the reason I enjoy this stuff is because it's not my job.If you did it everyday it would become a task and would probably lose interest.More soon,Cheers,Jamie.

I reckon Peat moss be lichen that sphagnum...... After all, he's a fun-gi!!

10 out of 10 for that one stock!

I'll pay that one stock, very creative, is it just my eyes or does that look suspiciously like an FB/EK ute on the trailer.
                                         Pedro

This build brings back so many memories. My FE was in similar condition. Youve really gotta wonder why we bother. But then I get to go for a drive and a play then I know why I bothered. Keep persisting, You'll get there.
                                            Cheers Scott   ;D

Hi all,got a little bit more done over the weekend.Drivers outer sill all welded on and drivers dogleg repaired and all steel!Although will obviously need a little bit of filler just to smooth it out nicely...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture245a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture248a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture251a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture256a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture258a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture214a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture261a.jpg)
Have started on the passenger side today.More soon,Cheers,Jamie.

Hi all,have got a bit more done in the last couple days,here's some pics...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1021a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1023a.jpg)
Got the passenger side sill on and repaired the dogleg...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1028a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1030a.jpg)
Started on the rear quarter lower section this afternoon...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1033a.jpg)
Made up a basic profile gauge....
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1034a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1036a.jpg)
After some Leon inspired metal work,I manufactured a new patch for this lower section as Rares don't do these anymore...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1039a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1040a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1042a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1044a.jpg)
Stitched it in and checked the profile,all looking good...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1047a.jpg)
All welded and smoothed out...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1050a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1051a.jpg)
Sill all finished and a bit of work involved to fix the leading edge of the sill where they fold it up (all bunched up).Hopefully I will finish the rear quarter tomorrow.More photos soon.Cheers,Jamie.

some damn fine work there jamie, you should be proud. ;) ;) ;) ;)

going to be very nice once completed.
dean

What metal are you using for the repairs Jamie, panel metal or something else?

Regards
Weddo

Weddo,I have used "black steel" which is 1.6mm? for the structural parts (inner sills,crossmembers and lower parts of A pillars) and normal mild steel sheet (1.2mm) for the other small patches.Have since finished the lower rear quarter repair.More pics soon.

Jamie you are really doing a great job on your car, it just keeps getting better.

Dean.

ok...... I've got a sheet of 1.6, a couple of 1.2, some MIG wire and a carton of palies. Do you reckon you could come around and build me a car?? ;D

Nice job mate.

Back again,I finally finished off the rust repairs on the left rear sill and now only have the little bit on the drivers side sill and the bumper lip to do then the shell is rust free!I have also repaired the original passenger side front door although I'm not real happy with it (it has had a couple repairs before and I don't like using filler).So far I have three doors and the boot lid basically done.Passenger side rear door,front guards and bonnet to do.I think I'll start dismantling the front end so it can be sand blasted while I'm finishing the panels.Then it can go back on it's wheels,Yeehaa!Some update pics...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1056a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1059a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1062a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1069a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1072a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1073a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1067a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1076a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1077a.jpg)
More soon...

i am very impressed.
i am a fabricator and the gooses at work say that sort of stuff is too  hard, ya gotta be a panel beater.
i dont know how much experience you've got but that is some quality work!
good luck keep those photos coming
thanks waynos

nice work there Jamie,

The FE/FC light in my head is starting to flicker watching this thread...

Cheers

Ed

Hi Jamie,

I echo Wayno's sentiments, This thread is an inspiration to most of us who realise that all it takes is a little bit of skill and more importantly the preparedness to give it a go, well done so far, it's going to be great to see it finished.

Keith
F4+
 ;)

All you guys and girls love the pictures and I love the comments.Especially when you have professionals tell you that they love your work.I always try to do my best even if it takes a bit longer and am also trying to do it all for the least amount of cash without compromising quality (I don't believe in bogging up rust,it only comes back to bite you later).Thankyou for all your kind replies and comments,more soon.Jamie  8).

Hi all,back again.Sorry it's been a while.Got a bit side tracked over the last few weeks and have been doing all sorts of bits and pieces on the Black FC.Stripped,repaired,deoxidined,primed and high filled the passenger side back door.Started dismantling the front end and motor so that it can go away for sand blasting (not the motor).Want to try and finish off the metal work on the shell this weekend then start on the front end and diff.Here's some more.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1082a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1083a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1086a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1092a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1095a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1097a.jpg)
More soon.Cheers,Jamie.

Hi All.Whilst I acknowledge that you are all very sick of seeing me post more pictures of rust repairs,I figured that they are all progress shots....This is the last of the rust to be cut out of the shell before it goes back on it's wheels as the only other bits it has are around the area where the rotisserie bolts on.Will be seam sealing and painting the underside of the car this week so stay tuned for more photos soon.Jamie.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1099a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1101a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1104a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1106a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1109a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1111a.jpg)
Hopefully some substantially more exciting photos soon. ;)

I'm now starting to think myself lucky that my FC had less rust than most 10 yo commodores, my first car was an EH that had less rust than most on here and i scrapped it  ::)

hey jamie, mate you are doing a fantastic job and i for one am not sick of seeing these photos if anything they are inspirational and educational.

keep up the good work


cheers
dean

What Dean said, the view count speaks for itself (currently ranked 13th)
Keep up the good work.

Jamie,

Just you keep them photo's coming. I echo Dean and Stinky's sentiments and am not in the slightest bit bored. Inspired would be a much better word, it is great to see what you are doing, and how you are going about it. I think that there are a lot of guys like me who would have got a panel beater to do their car and  have realised that, with a little skill and the ability to want to have a fair dinkum go, most people can achieve what you have done.

Keep them photo's coming. I look forward to the next batch of progress shots.

Keith
F4+
 ;)

Wot they all said Jamie.

You're doing a fabulous job, she should look a treat when she's done.

Cheers
John

please dont ever stop those photos coming,most people are too lazy or cant do it (like me cause my crap pc is too slow) 
i am sure everyone who has done this before appreciates what you are doing and anyone who hasn't, is truely inspired.
thanks waynos
 

Ok then...maybe it's just me that's sick of posting more photos of rust repairs (not that I don't want to post photos,just a bit over rust repairs) :) .Anyway,I guess the best part is that I have nearly finished this time consuming part of the build.Have spent the last couple nights preparing the underside for seam sealer and have wire wheeled off all of Rare Spares cheap black paint (it's not primer and it just flakes off).Will post more soon.

Well,the last couple of nights have been reasonably productive and I have managed to get all the cheap black paint off the floor pans and have reprimed the whole bottom of the car.Also managed to finish sealing the ends of the sills (and yes,I know it probably doesn't look original but I have nothing to go by..and it looks neat!).Will be seam sealing over the weekend and then painting the underneath.After that,I'll start cleaning up the diff and front end.More soon.
 (http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1113a-1.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1115a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1119a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1120a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1121a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1122a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1124a.jpg)
Cheers,Jamie.

Hey Jamie,

Really enjoying the buildup pics.

nice work

Cheers

Ed

Hi there, I'm new to the forum and just finished reading through this thread. You are a genius on what you have done to that black FC. I have a sedan on my front lawn with probably about the same amount of rust and once we strip off any good parts, off to the scrap metal yard.

Good work

Cheers
Janette

Scrapmetal is a swear word ,you just dont have the passion.

Cheers Neil

I was actualy thinking what a great shell you have scored jamie, most of us dream of finding something with that little rust, keep up the good work and keep the pics coming.
                                  Pedro

Sorry Jamie not trying to take over your post but i thought you might find this amusing.

Now this is rust.

(http://i281.photobucket.com/albums/kk227/Pedrosme/PEDROS%20wAGONS/morepics006.jpg)

(http://i281.photobucket.com/albums/kk227/Pedrosme/PEDROS%20wAGONS/morepics199.jpg)
                 
                                                   Pedro

Yes Pedro,I remember seeing those pics in your thread and was more amazed than amused.That would take a bit of work to recover... ???.I am surprised that you say my car has little rust as I have looked at quite a few threads with many cars having a lot less than mine and have thought how lucky they are!Particularly another Black FC...Anyway,that's all behind me now.Have completely dismantled,painted and am ready to reassemble the diff and brakes which I hope to do over this weekend so more photos in the next couple of days.Cheers,Jamie.

Just went and had a look through all the progress pics of your rebuild Jamie, shit I'd forgotten all the rust work you have done (must be getting old),I definately take back what i said about you starting with a good shell, It's a credit to you though, you did that good a job it's really hard to pick that anything has been done.
             Pedro

MATE you are one seriously A man that is going to great a nice car love your work

Hi all,here are some update pics of the diff cleaned,primed and painted.Have also done the springs,U-bolts,rubber mounts and have re-coed the rear cylinders.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1126a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1132a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1135a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1146a.jpg)
More soon.

Well done Jamie,

Keep up the good work. Is that lowereing blocks I detect in the last photo? What are your plans for the suspension?

Keith
F4+
 ;)

Hi Jamie

You have certainly been a busy boy - keep up the good work.

Kathi 

Just a bit lower at this stage Keith..... ;)  ;D

Hi all.Now I know it's not much but at the moment time is precious and my spring rubbers arrived today so I've managed to get them fitted and get the diff ready for installation.As mentioned in another post,I have also found time to repair the rust that I was previously unable to get to as it was underneath the rear mount of the rotisserie.Will be putting the mount back on in the next few days,after which I will be painting the underside of the car then installing the diff.Then the fun begins!
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1149a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1151A.jpg)
More soon.Cheers,Jamie.

how can you have a new born baby and actually get time for this aswell?
you are a true champion.

Luckily,he sleeps...I have learned that although he still requires a lot of attention,in between checking on him while he sleeps I can utilise the time efficiently.Every little bit counts and while before I had large blocks of time,now I have to space it out a bit.The thing I have to prepare myself for is when the routine changes..... ::) ;D

WOW, i just read this whole thread, start to finish consider me inspired, although i would never be able to do the work you have done, top job mate cant wait to see more.

Im now searching for an FE-FC haha, my wifes gunna kill me:)

Never say never Dan,it is not hard for anyone to do what I have done and I believe there is no harm in giving it a crack.I have made mistakes too and learned from them.It's a matter of starting off small and developing your skills so that when you do make a mistake,it doesn't cost you a fortune  ;D.I have started painting underneath the car this week so more updates soon.

Hi All.It's been a while and needless to say progress has been Slooooowww!I have now accepted the fact that any progress,is progress and have adopted an old catch phrase "seize the day!".Today was a pretty good day and I managed to get a fair bit done.After much deliberation and acknowledging many valued opinions on the subject,I decided to paint the underside in sound deadener and while I can appreciate that not everone likes this stuff I do not regret my decision.It has given a nice tidy finish and with the help of the Sikaflex has sealed all the joins nicely.I have also installed all (except "B" pillar) mounting plates for the seat belts.Once the paint has dried,I'll be putting the diff back in.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1075A.jpg)
Mounting plates cut,rounded,smoothed and tapped (7/16 UNF)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1078a.jpg)
Front plates mounted in tailshaft tunnel
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1081a.jpg)
Rear parcel shelf mounts
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1083a-1.jpg)
Underside painted
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1086a-1.jpg)
Front plates after painting almost look factory...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1087a.jpg)
Rear lower plates
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1089a.jpg)
Rear outer lower plates in wheel well.More soon.Cheers,Jamie.

Well done Jamie,

What a great job you are doing, keep up the great work. You must have the scent of "Orange" in the air ;)

First class work as always Jamie, just keep up the momentum.

Hiya Poodge,

glad to see the wee fella isn't slowing you down too much!! Love your progress!!

Don't forget to put child restraint ancors through the parcel shelf if you're going to take the whole family out in it, particularly when the new child seat laws come into place in SA.

Looking forward to catching you guys for chrissy sometine soon!!

TR

Merry Christmas and Happy new year to you all.Now I'm not entirely sure why,but over the last couple weeks I have wasted whatever spare time I have had trying to make the Rares sill panels look a bit straighter  ??? as they come with some pretty nasty press marks in odd places.I think I have achieved that much but they are by no means perfect.A mate came around the other night and pointed out "I wouldn't waste too much time on them,they weren't too good from the factory...".Fair point but I doubt they were as bad as the ones I have.Anyway they do look a bit better.Hard to tell from the photos.I was going to put the diff back in ages ago but it is easier to work on the sills while it's on the rotisserie.Will start on the rear quarters next.Sorry it's not much.More soon.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1154a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1157a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture1159a.jpg)
Cheers,Jamie.

Just went and checked a couple of BIW's............ Don't reckon they leave the factory with sills any better now than the finish you've acheived on yours!! (which, by the way is outstanding compared to the off tool finish of the rare spares ones!!)

We popped into Jamie's place today and met the man behind the avatar. Aside from being a nice bloke to talk to his shed is extremely organised and he's been doing a great job on his car.  So thanks for the time today Jamie and we wish you well for the rest of the build.  :D

Kathi and John

It was a pleasure to meet you guys today especially considering you were bearing gifts which are greatly appreciated (and the price was right  ;D).I have now finished both sills and am going to spend some time on the rear quarters.More soon.Cheers,Jamie.

I know,I know...It's seems like forever since I last posted but I wanted to have at least something worth posting.I have been on afternoon shift cover at a local winery,so that means if I can drag my lazy arse out of bed at a reasonable time I can get a bit done on the FC.Here's a little bit more...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00020.jpg)
Slot cut for upper seat belt mount,
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00018.jpg)
Plate cut drilled and tapped,
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00032.jpg)
Plate inserted using a piece of threaded rod,
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00021.jpg)
Plate welded in place,
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00034.jpg)
Hole welded up.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00050-1.jpg)
Drivers side quarter smoothed,
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00016-1.jpg)
Passenger side done.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00056.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00058.jpg)
Hi-Fill primer applied,
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00002.jpg)
NOS shackle kits,
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00061.jpg)
Diff in.We are about to build another house so bear with me on the progress shots.The upside...A new shed,lot's bigger...Stay tuned.Cheers,Jamie.

Jamie,

Well done, I see that you have still been hard at it :D I thought that maybe with the addition of the young one that you might have been slowed down a bit.

Obviously not ;)

Great to see the good work continue ;D

Maybe soon we will see the car in the new garage at the new house.


Keith

Thanks Keith,I've still been trying to dedicate a bit of time each week to working on it.The afternoon shift has helped a lot.Want to get the rest of the panels finished now as in the bonnet and front guards as most of the others are finished.More very soon.

Hi All,just a few more update pics although nothing too exciting.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/carsallsorts064.jpg)
Hole where the fresh air heater came through the firewall
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/carsallsorts066.jpg)
Gone
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/carsallsorts067.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/carsallsorts068.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/carsallsorts069.jpg)
HiFill primer applied
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/carsallsorts074.jpg)
Motor/engine out of front end
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/carsallsorts087.jpg)
Mocked up the bits and pieces I have collected for the engine,also have a remote oil filter not shown
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/carsallsorts090.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/carsallsorts093.jpg)
Original K frame stripped
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/carsallsorts094.jpg)
Not good,in fact the whole frame is like this.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/carsallsorts095.jpg)
This K frame is from another car and is in very good nick.Will make one good one from the two (yes I've thought about chassis numbers and it will still be Grandpas Axe  ;) )
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/carsallsorts096.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/carsallsorts091.jpg)
Something interesting I found while removing this K frame,the front brake lines had been removed from the brake splitter block and the fittings had been soldered up and put back in.Would have made it fun to drive?
More soon.Jamie.

Progressing nicely Jamie.
Always nice to get some new colour on, even if it is just hifill.
Regards
Alex

Great work Jamie, I noticed you cleaned up the "doggie land mines" before taking the photos  ;)

nice one Jamie,
always looking forward to reading the next instalment.

Cheers


Ed

Hey Jamie - wrong attitude!  >:(  Any progress is exciting!  :D  ;) 

Keep up the good work!

Back again.Thanks for all the encouraging comments,they are appreciated.Have spent a bit of time this week and last working on the black FC in between study.I had my final practical exam on Tuesday and passed so am now a qualified electrician.Have the front end apart and some bits ready for paint.The main crossmember,springs and wishbones will go away for sandblasting soon.Also spent all day today filling the lead fill joins on the shell and repriming as they didn't fill quite how I thought they would with Hi-Fill.They have come up a treat using Wurth polyester filler which can be applied over the Hi-Fill.I haven't put up any photos of that because you won't be able to see the difference.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/BlackFCrebuild2.jpg)
Before starting
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/BlackFCrebuild7.jpg)
I can't believe how much crap builds up on these parts over the years...Mud,dirt and grease,what a combination!
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/BlackFCrebuild12.jpg)
I also did a bit of wet rubbing on the rocker cover to see how it would come up.Needs a lot more work but has shown promising signs.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/BlackFCrebuild10.jpg)
More soon.Cheers,Jamie.

Jamie, congrats on achieving your sparky certification.

keep the updates coming, what's Wurth Polyester filler.. spray filler?

Cheers

Ed

Spray Polyester [spray bog] used when a hi fill application is required can get up to 1mm fill 2.5mm to 3.5mm  spraygun set up required to spray this product made by all the major paint Co.......FC427....

Jamie,

Congratulations on qualifying as an electrician, Well Done! Great to see you are still sticking with it. I get a lot of enjoyment finding an oxidised piece of aluminium, such as our tappet cover and slowly see it come up like new, gives one a good feeling.

Do you think that you will make it to Orange?

Keith

Thanks for the comments guys.Ed,the filler is still a two part filler  in a tub like bog but is really fine and as I mentioned ,can be put over (scuffed up) paint.It has virtually no shrink back and claims to have fewer pinholes (I can't see any at all).Easy to sand and leaves a great finish.I used it on the rear lead fill sections (C pillar top and bottom and on the top by the taillights).Hope to get more done this weekend so stay tuned.

Sorry Keith,forgot to answer your question.I hope to make it to Orange.It is amazing how things change.I had full intentions of having this car ready for this years GM day (late March).That was before the little fella was born....No doubt there are plenty of stories like this.All I can work on is doing a little bit each week and I'll get there.Orange gives me something to strive for. ::)

Hi all.As you may have seen,I have been very quite over the last couple months as I have been saving up some cash to get the rest of my sandblasting done.Here's some more photos and will be more to come shortly.Also blasted was the front crossmember and components along with the bonnet,bonnet catch panels and a few other bits and pieces.As you can see I made one good one out of two.One from an FE had good Y frames but was rusty otherwise.The original FC one was good every where else but very rusty Y frames and front section.It took a few hours but was still easier to do this than cut out all the rust.I have also managed to maintain the original cha

Well that was handy...Something happened half way through my post so I went back to edit it and after adding the photos it said my time had run out. ??? Ok, so as I was saying...I managed to maintain my original chassis number doing it this way.Have a few little bits of rust to cut out but not a lot.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture048.jpg)
Started off with these two,
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture055-1-1.jpg)
Split the two,
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture057-1-1.jpg)
Ended up with this.More very soon.Cheers,Jamie.

Doin really well there jamie

I am constantly amazed at the attention to detail and amazing work going into this build, keep it up it is an inspiration!

Matt

Nice work Jamie, looks like a much easier way to do it.
                                       Pedro

Again Jamie, any progress is good progress.  We all experience different priorities throughout different stages of our lives.  Looking forward to seeing the progress first hand in a couple of weeks time.   :)

Kathi

Well the last two days have been very productive and I managed to get all the rust cut out of the subframe,then the two pieces welded together as well as the whole thing re-primed then in Hi-Fill.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00051.jpg)
Had a couple bits to attend to first...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00055.jpg)
Then welded up and trial fit...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00056-1.jpg)
Then Hi-Fill.Will be painting the Fire wall before fitting the subframe up for good.I know it goes against originality but I think I have decided to paint the firewall and the engine bay in the Hi Gloss the same as the rest of the car.As I said,not an original look but other than that can anyone suggest why I shouldn't?I just think it will blend the whole thing together better,being a Gloss Black car and not being concourse original and all.

G'day Jamie, nice neat bit of welding there, what matters is how you feel about how your car looks, you're not building it to please someone else, there will always be someone that likes what you do and others who don't so don't stress about it, do what makes you happy 8).
                                             Pedro

No arguments from me Jamie!  ;)  Your car, your money = your decision!  :)

Jamie,

My FC was India Ivory over Castle Grey and the engine bay was the same colour as the car. When I stripped the paint off there was no sign of it ever being painted any other colour.  The inner skirts were grey, the firewall was grey.

The intention on mine is to paint the engine bay the same colour as the rest of the car. Personally I think that it looks nicer to have the engine bay the same as the car.

Keith

Keith early FC's all had body colour engine bays. It wasn't until later in 1959 that the all black engine bay was adopted.

Ken

Got the subframe painted yesterday.Hasn't turned out too bad.Definitely no "show class" results here.At the end of the day,I just want to drive it!Also got some of the front end mounting hardware cleaned up and ready for paint.Will paint the firewall then mount up the subframe.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00001.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00007.jpg)
More soon.Cheers,Jamie.

NNiiiccceeee!!!

Good to see some paint going on stuff... wish mine was that close...

Well done
Jason.

Don't know what you are complaining about ???, that looks like a good job to me, as Jason said it's great to see some paint going on, seems like all we've seen on here lately is cutting, welding and fabrication.
                                         Pedro

Thanks guys,been there done that.Am glad that part is over although I did enjoy it.Waiting for some new crossmember rubbers and the subframe mounting bolts then some more photos.Cheers,Jamie.

Coming along very nicely moite.......

Are you going to fabricate a 5" exhaut from all of those S26 cans?? :D ::) Your getting an inpressive collection!

A bit more painting done tonight....
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00004.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00005.jpg)
More soon.

You're missing the short spacers - or are these to be done later?

Ken

Yes Ken,they are to be done later as in later after I realise that I've forgotten to paint them and put them in. ::) Thanks,Jamie. ;D

Maybe he'll make a "custom" air cleaner too  :P

Had a reasonsably productive day today.Had a day off so made the most of it and got the crossmember back together again.This was an excellent learning experience from getting the old bushes out to installing and reaming the new ones and getting them exactly right without stuffing it up.I was shitting myself when reaming them as I couldn't face buggering up a NOS set of bushes.Turned out perfectly.If there is one thing I can tell people it is that you have to give it a go,albeit cautiously.Was also fun getting the alignment of the upper and lower control arms just right.Lots of measuring and measuring again.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture010.jpg)
Replaced the upper control arm shafts with NOS...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture014.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture015-1.jpg)
Also had a NOS king pin set....
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture016-1.jpg)
New bushes installed and reamed....
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture025.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture017-1.jpg)
used the old threaded rod trick to compress the spring then attached the steering knuckle support...........
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture019.jpg)
Steering knuckle/Stub axle installed...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture023.jpg)
Backing plates and hubs installed.Just waiting for the bump stops to arrive.More very soon.Cheers,Jamie.

Hi Jamie,

You are doing a great job, can you please advise the diameter of the threaded rod you used to compress the coil spring ??? ???

Thanks
John ;)

Jamie. 

While you are answering questions I was also wondering what support you used from the Front End to the Vehicle below the radiator.  I think I remember reading somewhere EH/EJ is used as the HR one does not fit.  If this is inncorrect please advise of what you have done to make the front end fit. 

Keep up the great work and the updates coming.

Thanks in advance.

hrpremier

Hey John and Hr Premier.The threaded rod is just basic 1/2 inch rod.It fits nicely through the shocker tower hole at the top and I used the lower shocker mount at the bottom as a washer.This method seems to work well.Hr Premier,this is a standard king pin front end but I believe if you were fitting a HR front end you would use an FB/EK or EJ front outrigger on the HR front end.I'm sure someone else canclarify this.Cheers,Jamie.

Hi Jamie,

Thanks for the information,

Cheers
John

Looks like brand new Jamie, coming together nicely.

FB EK EJ or EH is correct for the outrigger, somebody was talking about a bloke in Sydney that makes new ones for $50 each.
         Pedro

John  When I put the springs back I used 1/2" threaded rod.  Works well.

Keith

Picked up my bump stop rubbers and a firewall grommet from Rares today.The grommet is for my heater and looks almost factory.Also managed to get the first couple coats on the firewall this afternoon while it was still warm.Got some rubbing back to do before the final coat as I got a couple hangers up where the wiper motor goes  >:( .
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00012.jpg)
Old school heater,Shin Toa brand,was in the double grey sedan when I bought it and is in really good nick....
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture027.jpg)
Grommet from Rares,looks good....
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture029.jpg)
Firewall painted in the first coat.More soon.Jamie.

What a day!After getting the subframe into postion ready for attachment I decided I wasn't happy with some of the paint so repainted it this morning!  ??? After which time I struggled around with it for several hours trying to get the main lower bolts to line up.Then out of the blue one of my mates turned up and along with some of his brilliant toolmaking ideas came up with a plan which saw the subframe into postion much to my delight.He came up with a cunning little attachment which he placed on the end of the new subframe bolts which located them while we tapped them in.Unfortunately he had to work with my severe lack of high quality machining equipment but said tool did the job perfectly.It has a hole in the end slightly larger than the thread on the new bolt and the taper lines up the hole as the bolt slides in.Had a couple alignment problems on the passenger side but after lots of jacking up and down of this and that managed to get the upper bolts in perfectly.Without his help,you would probably only be seeing this post about...Thursday... :P.Anyway,she's a roller again.Lots to go but one step closer....
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture040.jpg)
As mentioned alignment tool...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture031.jpg)
Subframe ready to go on.......
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture035.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture038-1.jpg)
Subframe on and frontend in.....More soon.Jamie

Well done Jamie, the bullet end should be part of every FE FC assembler's tool box. Some subframes go together easily ;D others don't :P

After repairs in the A pillar area or subframe legs, the heat from the welding can alter bolt alignment a little bit and make assembly difficult.

Ken

Thanks Ken.As you have mentioned and something I forgot in the earlier post was to be wary when altering or repairing a subframe as I did.I am sure this is the reason why things did not fit quite as they should have straight up.I was very particular when repairing the A pillar bulkhead so that I didn't change any dimensions but obviously didn't pay as much attention to the subframe.All good now though.

Looking really good Jamie,

Not that far to go now, Must be great to have it back on all wheels.

Keith

Thanks Keith,it is great to have it back on it's wheels as it has finally turned full circle and now feels like it is going back together.Had a good day yesterday while looking after the little fella (who was extremely good for his Dad) I managed to get the bonnet and boot lid stripped,repaired and in Hi-Fill primer.The filler is very thin and only a skim coat.Most of the impressions or dents were over the bracing where I couldn't get to so had to fill.Front guards next and thats it for the body until I start rubbing it all back ready for top coat.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture044.jpg)
Board filed to find the impressions....
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture046.jpg)
Filler applied...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture049-1.jpg)
Hi-Fill applied
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture052.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture051.jpg)
Filed and filled.........
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture053.jpg)
Hi filled....
More very soon.Cheers Jamie.

You have been busy Jamie.  :D

Was good to catch up with you last weekend and see your progress first hand. And I love that heater - I've never seen one that small before - it's just far too cute for words! :D
 

That's what his wife said  :P

Great work there Jamie, I'm feeling guilty for not attacking my project now :-[

Hey Kathi,I wish I had your phone number as there were two Shin-Toa heaters identical to mine at the Gawler swap meet today! :o

He he he Glenn... ;D ;D ;D.What she really said was she had never seen such a small package....and then I unfolded it..... ;D ;D ;D ;D

Hi Jamie - didn't get out to Gawler today - but thanks for the thought! 

26 years down the track and I'm still getting good use out of the rare factory solar heating option.  We've got a NOS "still in the box" Tao Denso ready and waiting and a pretty good one is going in the van.  The little Shin Tao are gorgeous though - I don't really need one - I would have only bought one just to be able to look at and say how cute it was all the time!  :D Maybe I'll keep an eye out at the Strath swap meet though!  :D

I'm impressed Jamie. Working on the car and being able to look after the kid!

did you have the panels blasted or strip back with disc etc?

Cheers

Ed

Hey Ed,the bonnet was blasted.The boot was stripped with paint stripper then strip disc then deoxidined then primed several months ago.Then on Saturday I board filed it to find the highs and lows then filled then Hi-Fill.The Protec Hi-fill I am using can be applied directly over bare metal so saves a step.Front guards and Hi-fill the three doors then lots of rubbing back.Cheers,Jamie.

Shit Jamie you make that look so easy :o, good job 8) 8)
                     Pedro

Jamie. 

What product are you using as your filler and primer. ???

Jase

The filler is made by Wurth and the primer,prep wash,Hi-Fill,GMH satin black,thinners,JET black acrylic gloss are all Protec brand.

Hi all,I have been working on the drivers side rear door tonight and is the last door to be finished.It was only yesterday I commented to my wife how lucky I was to have such a straight rust free door (although it did require a skim coat mainly around the edges).While filing the filler back,the paper on the board file caught on the edge and the door shot off the panel stand and landed on the floor with a sickening thud bending the leading corner over almost at right angles :'( ....I live next door to the local pastor and needless to say,he learned a few new words today.... >:(
 (http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture.jpg)
No,I didn't take a photo of the damage,I was too pissed off!More very soon,Jamie.

Jamie,

Great work, sorry to hear of your mishap with the door, Nothing worse than going one step forward and steps backward

Keep at it, it will soon be in colour

Keith

I'll trade you a straight door with rust if you like.  ;)
If that is indicative of the doors on your car, you are indeed a lucky boy!!  8)
A small set back in the scheme of things.  :D
Regards
Alex

Thanks for the comments guys .It is amazing the condition of these doors as only one had any rust repairs and yet I have replaced just about the whole lower part of the car!All doors, boot and bonnet,bonnet lock panel and the panel under the grille now done.They will all have to come off again to be painted and to finish the jamb parts but I have put them on to get them out of the way and so that they don't get damaged lying around the shed.Front guards next.
 (http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture056.jpg)
More soon.Jamie.

That door is/was amazingingly straight Jamie, I don't think I've ever seen one that good before, I see your cars got some tastefull company in the shed 8).
                      Pedro

Yes Pedro,the one owner FJ standard will be getting a bit of attention as soon as the FC is finished (needs the engine bay cleaned up and the front end reconditioned,kingpins and bushes).Beautiful old car though and stock as a rock.

Jamie

Great work!

Might send my doors through for a bit of a tidy up.

What's the address?

Cheers

Craig

Hi all.Finally started to get some colour on a few panels over the weekend.Amazing how long it can take just to do these few bits and pieces depending on how good you want the finish.Will be a couple weeks before I get any more done as I have entered Gazzanats this weekend with my Commy which should be a blast.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/BlackFCrebuild89.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/BlackFCrebuild90.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/BlackFCrebuild91.jpg)
More soon,Jamie.

Jamie,

Well done, you must be happy to see the colour going on instead of all the rust coming off, what a turn around. One more step closer to Orange!

Keep up the great work.

Keith

Is black a colour???  :P :P


Looking good mate...

JB

MMM-shiny, how do you manage to keep your shed so clean Jamie :o, mine looks like there's been a snowstorm in there after all the sanding.
                      Pedro

Well.I've just realised I missed the second anniversary of the Black FC rebuild and unfortunately progress pictures are few and far between.I have been constantly working on the car but this panel work is killing me.I have been told I'm getting too fussy by a few friends (one's a panel beater/spray painter by trade) but I just want to get the best job I can for the least amount of money.I have been working on the boot lid recently and after wet rubbing it back I decided it wasn't good enough so I refilled it,re Hi filled it then rubbed it back again.It now has it's first few coats of black on it and is rubbed back again to achieve a flatter finish.I am really learning a lot as I go.I sold a bit of stuff on ebay that I had lying around which allowed me to buy a decent gravity spray gun.I figured I would buy the best I could afford that way I can't blame the equipment for a shit job.  ;D This gun is a cracker and is a very high quality unit.The first few coats I have applied were done when it was too hot and I now realise this and have learned that one.It doesn't help that the last two weeks have been 35 to 43 degrees here!The other thing I am struggling with is the panel fit.I didn't take much notice when I pulled it apart but strangely enough,the only door that fits real well is the non original one!I can't even blame it on any of the work I've done. ??? Anyway,as soon as I have updates I will be sure to add them.Sometimes it gets me down that I have taken so long to do what I have,then I remember the beautiful little boy who just had his first birthday a couple weekends ago I remember why I don't have the time I used to have anymore.But I have him...enough of that,more updates soon.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture060.jpg)
I had this Prefect grille lying around and thought about making up some story of how I have changed my mind and am now going to build a mild custom.Decided against it but seriously,has anyone done this?It is such a close fit...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture062.jpg)
My new spray gun,Iwata W-400...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture061.jpg)
First few coats of black.

iam not sure i like that grille but its not my car. so what makes you happy i do like the spray gun and the boot lid  ;D

Jamie,

My father had Prefects for many years, never once did we even look to see if a grille from a 100E prefect would fit the FC. I am astounded it is so close.

Simply amazing

Are you sure that it is not a grille from a Mk1 Ford Consul. They would be closer in size than a Prefect.

Keith

Hamfist,no need to worry.I won't be putting this grille in,it was just a bit of a joke.Keith,I thought it said Prefect on the car we took it out of but I could be very wrong.We just couldn't leave it behind as it is in excellent condition and is stainless steel.Has been hanging up in the shed for a few years and I needed to move it to put up an old enamel sign.Thanks for the comments though.More soon.

Just thought I'd let you all know I'm not dead!I have been still working on the FC albeit steadily as we are in our busiest time at work,10/6's.This paint prep is killing me and I have painted almost all of the hanging panels now and have been blocking back the body over the last two days.Seriously I have done so much rubbing I'm almost blind!The biggest problem is that I didn't put enough Hifill on the roof which was badly pitted this meant that when I rubbed it back,I was left with a lot of pits.So I re-Hifilled and after spending all day blocking it back,I still have a couple of nasty pits right in the middle.I now have a special type of spot putty (not the cheap stuff) to fill these last few marks then I will re-Hifill again.I decided to put the steering column in so that I could move it in and out of the shed and to do that I needed to paint the dash.The colour match on the Cinder grey is actually a lot better than it looks in the photos and is quite flat also.Am just about to start shift cover soon which is afternoon shift which hopefully means more time during the day to work on the car (if I can get out of bed at a reasonable time)More photos soon.Cheers,Jamie.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FC013A.jpg)
Dash all painted
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FC021A.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FC022A.jpg)
Column in
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FC023A.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FC026A.jpg)
She's a roller again!
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FC028A.jpg)
One of the doors.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FC029A.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FC046A.jpg)
Bonnet.I'm learning a lot about painting...Normally by trial and error...more error than trial at this stage
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FC049A.jpg)
Body after being blocked back..
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FC050A.jpg)
mmm shiny.I'm reasonably impressed by how straight this turned out.More soon,Jamie.

Jamie, you must be really proud of what you have achieved , that paint is awesome! That there is SATISFACTION.
Gary C

Hey Jamie
Nice work on the paint.
How soon before you're done.....I want to drop mine off!!
Regards
Alex

Hehehe...will be enjoying this one for a while before I start on the next one....And I still have so far to go!Thanks for the comments though.

I was begining to wonder   :-\  The panels look great and the paint is good too, even if it is shiny  :P

Looking good. Is it a trick of the photo or is there something marking the boot lid by the lock?

P.
 8)

looks awesome ;D now when can you do mine :P lol!!!

great work Jamie!

very straight, all those hours blocking back certainly show now.

Cheers

Ed

Jamie,

The work that you have done is absolutley fantastic, it looks great, The paint looks as if it is 10 feet deep, Your preparation certainly shows in the finished result on the panels. I can't wait to see it all finished

Keith

Very impressive Jamie, the black looks awesome 8) 8) 8)
              Pedro

Looks great Jamie, doing well.
Go on fit the grille (you know you want to ;D).

 Dean.

I won't repeat everything above but I'm assuming you're pretty happy with how it's all coming together. And if you're not, I hope you realise that you're well within driving distance to give a good smack around the head to!   ;D

No trick photography here Paul but I guess I should have mentioned that the door and boot lid had just been blocked back and are still wet.That is one way to be able to see just how straight they are and there is no real reason why they won't end up looking like this once clear coated and buffed.I hope that doesn't put a downer on everyones expectations of my ability  ??? ;)...

Jamie, just stumbled upon your thread and spent over an hour from page 1 to 12.
Honestly mate this is an absolute credit to you, simply bloody amazing craftmanship and if i had a poofteenth(tech term) of the skills you obviously have,id be happy.
I have a black FC std that hasnt as much rust as yours did,but mine will be nowhere as good as yours mate, well done.
Im in Adelaide also maybe should catch up for a beer.
Again congrats mate truly outstanding.
Cheers  Brad

Thanks Brad.It really helps to get these kind of comments because anyone who has done this kind of rebuild will understand how hard it is to stay motivated.I have spent a few more hours this week blocking and rubbing the car back again after re-HiFilling.I bought a cheap STAR Hi-Fill spray putty gun which I should have bought right at the start.It's not rocket science but I didn't realise how much better a gun with a 2.8mm tip will lay down Hi-Fill than a 1.8mm tip.You learn from your mistakes and other peoples advice.All the pits are now gone from the roof and I only have to go around and "dust" over a few rub throughs on edges before "Betty" is ready to paint.Thanks for all your support guys and girls,it helps!Jamie.

Jamie

While your offering adivise I was wondering what makes a good paint gun.  Bit of research tonight has only confused me more.  Obvious a grovity fed gun with a interchangeable tip.  Should I be looking for a gun which as multi stage triggers.  What size canister for panels should be a minimum and the specs Ive been looking at brag about psi ratings is this really important, or just a sales pitch, and again what is a minmum if important.

What model is yours pictured on previous pages.  I know it comes down to the operator but looking at your finish seems to be a credit to the guns and your ability.

What Filler and Hi Filler are you using also.  Went to a local Paint wholesaler today to get an idea but was curious what others prefer to use.

Hope this is not to much to ask.  Your input is valued.

Jase

You can email me at kerrmit@bigpond.com if its easier

Ok Jase,here we go...Firstly I am barely a novice at this painting thing and have only learned bits and pieces from doing some research and I agree it can be confusing.The gun I am using is an Iwata W-400 and was around $500.I only justified buying it after selling a whole heap of surplus crap I had lying around.I figured I would buy the best gun I could afford so I couldn't blame the equipment.If you go to websites like the Anest Iwata site it has a table which tells you exactly what type of gun to use for which type of paint (primers,Acrylic,clears,2Pak etc).The tip size is determined by which paint you are using so you need to know this first for example Acrylic has an ideal tip size of 1.8-2.0mm.My gun came standard with a 1.4mm tip for 2pak and I bought an extra tip for Acrylic.Gravity guns are also not the be all and end all.They make it easier when you are doing the roof because you don't have the pot swinging around in the way but gravity guns have a limited pot capacity compared to suction guns.I recently also bought a gun specifically for doing HiFill which has a 2.8mm tip and although it was cheap by comparison to the Iwata (about $150) it does a great job at spraying the primer without having to thin it down at all which saves you a lot of time not having to do so many coats especially if you have a lot of pitting.The psi rating is normally a maximum pressure rating for the gun and most people I have talked to spray at between 25-45 PSI but this varies a bit depending on what type of paint you are using and other factors.The canisters or pots on the gravity guns are usually 600ml and some suction guns are 1L.The advice I was given by many professional painters was try to use all the same brand of products ie thinners,primers,top coat,clear and metal preps.I have been using ProTec for everything except the Light polyester filler which is Wurth brand.At the end of the day,the results you get will take practise and I still have a long way to go but I have learned a hell of a lot so far and am starting to achieve some reasonable results.I also don't have high expectations so that when something turns out well,I am pleasantly surprised.... :D If anyone else has any input (ED  ;D ),feel free to post as we could all do with the advice.Hope this helps,Jamie.

I painted my FE in acrylic with a cheap standard gun, and it turned out well enough to win 2006 Nationals Grand Champion Modified. The one thing with Acrylic paint, is that it give you alot of leaniency when you make a mistake. All it means is that you have to do more rubbing, and take it from me, you will get sick of rubbing.
 But i must admit, i would love to buy a couple of new guns, to try and make the job a bit easier. If you talk to someone who does it all the time you will get the best advice of which equipment to buy.

Hey there Jamie,

I'm a self taught painter too I read a magazine article in Street Machine in 1988 and thought.. hey sounds easy....Like most others on here I just gave it a go.

The best thing to do is just to practice, practice and ask questions to the right people.  My local paint shop and pro painters always share their knowledge with me because they can see I'm interested... I just ask them questions.

my fave gun is my suction feed touch up gun (Star).. it was cheap but it atomises the best out of all my guns. If you keep them clean they will last a long time.  The rest of my guns are all Star gravity guns with various fluid tips as described.

I'm also finding the more jobs I do, the easier it gets, the better my eye and feel of the panels becomes.

as with anything like welding or painting etc, you will find the setup that best suits your style of painting... and if it gets the result you're after...nice.

I'm using Protec paint too now. I like it and the supplier is only 5 mins away.

Cheers

Ed

I have four guns in total now,the Iwata W-400 Gravity,A Star S-106 gravity,a Star S-710 suction and a real cheap Spear and Jackson touch up suction (which actually works remarkably well).By no means am I suggesting you can't get good results from a cheaper gun,I painted the BSA with the S-710 and it turned out great.

Managed to get a bit more done over the last few days since I'm on afternoon shift.Sorry but a few of the photos are a bit crappy.Hope to get the body painted in the next week before the weather turns to crap.Jamie.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00062.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00063-1.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00064.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00067.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00069.jpg)
Will be removing the old masking plastic before painting the body as it has a lot of built up paint residue on it from rubbing back and I don't want that in the top coat.Cheers,Jamie.

Jamie,

Certainly looking good, good to see that you are still able to make some progress on it

Keith

Great work Jamie, I wish I was at the painting stage but being a 1 armed bandit at the moment all I can do is wander around the shed and dream! Hopefully I'll have my arm out of this pain in the butt sling in a couple of weeks and be able to use it again even if it is just to pat my FC affectionately. Hey Jack .might still need that lift to Orange will let you know in a couple of weeks! Cheers for now, Jack.

wish iwas up to your stage its looking good
reguards Geoff

no probs, mate! Always room for you in our car  :) Let us know how you go; I hope you're fit enough to drive
'old faithful' to Orange, but if not, we'll pick you up on the way past.
cheers, jack

I know there's possibly not a lot of interest with the Nats being on and all but I just thought I'd let you all know I've done the first three base coats.Betty is Black again!
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00085.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00086.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00087.jpg)
More soon Jamie.P.S Hope everone is having fun in Orange!

Stunning mate... What great progress, all things considered!!

I must say, my green man is coming out, given that mine is still sitting in the same spot it was 6 months ago when I got it blasted and etch primed it (the week before we went to Gazzanats - that's why the blasting was on the DVD!!)

I bet when you think back to all the times your enthusism started to wane, it all pales into insignificance now.

Once again, well done mate. I'll be head if the queue to utilise your experience (and your Iwata) when I finally get around to painting mine!! I hope they let us work on it in the nursing home ::).

Catch you soon mate.

hey jamie, its people like you, the people like us who couldnt make it to the nats are interested in. (i spent some of the weekend carpeting my boot )
mate the finish looks great keep at it.

best part about is at the end YOU can stand back and say I di it ;) ;)

i still think the best respnose you can have from any car you did is when you park it, walk away then turn around and say to yourself f**k that looks nice.  ;D ;D ;D ;D

well done mate, cant wait till panels are hung.

dean

Great job and I too will still be watching progress. And I am not at the Nats either....  ;)

Looks fantastic Jamie. I think us poor bastards not at the Nats have appreciated the update. Well done.

Regards Wayne

Looks great Jamie, you're on the home straight now, maybe you should have called this build "Back in black" ;).
       Pedro

Im green also Jamie.
Awesome stuff mate.

Jamie,

Where did you get the sills from? I got some from RS but they do not have the end sections or the cutouts like yours...

Neil

Hey Neil,mine also came from Rare Spares and I rang them tonight about some other parts so I asked them and they said they still make them with the ends on them.Sounds a bit dodgy to me seeing as how others are making them without the ends.How much were they roughly?The Rares ones are about $160 and the others from Craig Vane are a lot cheaper.Cheers,Jamie.

How is it that no one in this great country of ours can repro quality components the sills are rubbish floor pans are rubbish special badges ect the sills from Queensland are pretty good but without the ends for some people is a real problem.
The yanks have in down pat you can buy a whole camero or A model for ect why cant we do it??
Maybe their is not a big enough market who knows.

I'd say that the problem so far has been that old Holdens haven't been worth that much, up until a couple of years ago you could still buy a project for around $500 and one on the road and registered for a couple of grand, now that the prices have gone up things will probably change though, in America they are now remaking full shells for a lot of the old cars the bloke next door to us is buying a rusty Mustang here and importing a complete shell from yankeeland then just swapping all the parts over, wouldn't it be wicked to be able to just order a new FE/FC shell 8) 8).
                   Pedro

Some already do.

Aussie Muscle Car Parts ($2)

XU1 Parts ($2)

HT Monaro ,XU1,  XY falcon are all on the drawing board Comaro Mustang etc etc already in production all being stamped in China .....FC427.....

well there you go good to see.

Ill have my shell with reccessed firewall 4 link brackets and  502 mounts thanks.

would be nice.

Well done jamie watching your build is giving me some great hinters at my Van build not as good as yours but I will be happy just to get mine finished. Don't worry about all the photo's of things that don't look important to you they are for us on this side of the forum. steve

Thanks Steve,I'll be glad to get mine finished too.All Painted now except for the front guards which I picked up from the sand blasters tonight (got a bit sidetracked with the rest of the car).Going to start on the Fall red highlights inside this weekend hopefully then all the doors can go back on as I wait for the Acrylic to dry properly before cut and buff.More pictures soon.Cheers,Jamie.

Got some more done this weekend.While I'm waiting for the final coats to dry properly I decided to get the Fall red inserts done and will get the red done on the doors soon so they can go back on the car although I should really do the rubbers before they go on.I'm in a bit of a spot because cash is short at the moment and the rubber kit is almost $2000 so I might put em on them take them off again down the track.Don't be too critical of the paint on the body,I'm yet to find out if it will cut and buff up ok and I am a little concerned about the roof as it has a few dry spots and I've never painted a full car before with clear mixed in so I don't know what to expect.Got my guards blasted during the week and as you can see they need a bit of work.I figure I've repaired a lot worse rust than this so should be ok...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00021a.jpg)
Guards blasted and now in primer...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00036a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00038a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00039a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00041a.jpg)
Red looks more correct in this photo...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00014a.jpg)
Had a bit of trouble with the spray dust hanging around so I fixed it.Works a treat..More soon,Jamie.

looking really good Jamie.  Don't be too hard on yourself - you've done some amazing things with your car and you should be very proud of your achievements.  :)   

Lookin great Jamie, just noticed in those pics your dome light door switch button opening, looks like an FB type, was your car a late 59 ?

Cheers Gary

Thanks Gary,yes it is late 59.Also has the embossed seats which was only late 59 I believe.

Keep up the great work Jamie!
love the exhaust fan in the shed too
Cheers

Ed

Looking good Jamie, don't worry about the dry spots that's the beauty of painting with acrylic, you can give it a rub down with some 1200 wet and dry before you buff it to flatten the paint and remove any rough spots.
           Pedro

Well it looks like I was worrying over nothing and it also looks like all my hard work is starting to pay off.Started cutting and buffing the body this weekend and with still lots of hand buffing and glazing to go (only the initial buff done so far) the signs are looking promising.Also managed to get some of the red on the insides of the doors.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/allsorts035a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/allsorts033a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/allsorts038a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/allsorts046a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/allsorts050a.jpg)
More soon.Cheers,Jamie.

jeez get the sunglasses 8) 8) 8) out that is one very shiny car well done  ;D ;D
 
                                                               Cheers Damo58

Stunning Jamie,

terrific job mate.

Cheers

Ed
 8)

Good one Jamie, that black looks awesome 8) 8).
               Pedro

I've gotta agree Jamie, what were you worried about ? looks great in the pics, the red on the doors looks authentic also, good work!

Gary

Jamie,
 
That paint job looks fantastic, it looks about 10 foot deep and it could double as a mirror, well done

Keith

There's nothing like paint that looks like you could dive into :o
great work!
Cheers
Deano

not much to say cos it's all been said before me!  ;D  You should be very happy with yourself!  :D

Very nice airbrushing to get that transmig onto the rear quarter......... Not what I would have, but to each their own........... ;D




Seriously mate, Top Job. You've made a real statement there!!! You should be really proud.

Hey looking for a mig like yours but I just can't quite see serial number, can you drag it closer to car and take another photo of your rear quarter with serial numbers facing it Thanx, steve (HA HA HA)


(by the way shiny paint also)

Thanks for all the nice comments guys and girl.I am reasonably happy with how it is turning out although I still have a lot to do and I will have my work cut out to keep it looking good (it will be worth it).Was starting to envy the Matt Blackers till the shine began to appear...hehehe..Cheers,Jamie.

Hi all.Now I know it's been two months since I posted but I basically haven't stopped work on the Black FC that whole time.Here's some update pics.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/fcstuff063a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/fcstuff062a.jpg)
Passenger doors rubbed back and buffed
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/fcstuff076a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/fcstuff074a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/fcstuff073a.jpg)
Drivers side doors rubbed back and buffed
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/fcstuff006a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/fcstuff025a-1.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/fcstuff026a-1.jpg)
Got some bling on...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/fcstuff056a-1.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/fcstuff053a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/fcstuff054a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/fcstuff059a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/fcstuff071a.jpg)
Sold some stuff and bought some stuff...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/fcstuff072a.jpg)
Have wanted a pair of these for a long time..
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/fcstuff081a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/fcstuff084a.jpg)
And as mentioned earlier in the thread,I got a bit sidetracked and didn't do the front guards so now I'm doing this crap part again...More soon.

Its been worth the wait. Looking great.

Regards


Wayne

WOW :o :o :o, that is awesome Jamie, I'm totally jealous, I'd be happy if mine turned out even half as good as that. 8) 8) 8) 8)
            Pedro

Jamie,

You gotta be happy with the progress you have made, she's looking fantastic & if you're lucky, Pedro will come & do the Bogging (I hear he likes that part).

Dean.

:P :P :P :P :P :P :P :P :P :P :P :P
          Peddro

Looks great Jamie, that paint would put a lot of professionals to shame.

Thanks for the comments guys.Pedro,I'm sure your paint will easily turn out as good as mine (probably better)if what you have already done is anything to go by!Cheers,Jamie.

Looking good Jamie - getting closer every day!  :D

FANTASTIC   8)

Jamie

Great work !!

You would have to be pleased with what you are creating.

Regards

Craig

Jamie,

Outstanding work, you must be starting to get excited, not far off now ;)

Keith

Loving your work Jamie, looking forward to seeing the finished product.

Now that's what I call a shine! Awesome paintwork Jamie , looking good. You're on the home stretch now! Cheers, Jack

X a big 2...  amazing paint  8) 8) 8)

(some real competition for Kathi here!)

Thanks all although I'm not in competition with anyone here.I think the challenges I have laid down for myself have been accomplished.There are quite a few scratches in the paint which you obviously can't see in the photos but when I pushed her out in the sun they were harder to see.After a good hand polish I think I will be still happy with the result.I want to be able to use this car and enjoy it without worrying about what others think of it and if it looks good in the photos,no doubt it will look good in the flesh.Cheers,Jamie.

I agree with Jamie - no competition at all!  He can't help it if he picked the wrong model!  ;) :D

You've done an amazing job Jamie and it will be a stunner that you'll have a great time driving.

Just remember....... after dusk, overcast days and rain will bring out your car's best!  Be prepared for it to be dirty as soon as it's clean and for those glorious days when that rare factory option of solar heating kicks in!  :D  Nothin' like a black car! You gotta be a "special person" to own one and still love it after the first week! ;D

Jamie,

that is stunning.. nice work mate.

Cheers

Ed

Well it's been a while again because we have been getting our house ready for sale so time on the FC has been a bit limited.In the last few weeks I've managed to do some bits and pieces.Here's a small update.Have installed the whole rear section of the wiring loom as well as the boot lock assembly,spare tyre bracket and courtesy light switches.Got back to some basic metal work and made up some patches for my front guards....
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC06656.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC06658.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC06659.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC06662.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC06663.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC06665.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC06667.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC06668.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/fcstuff092a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00039.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00041.jpg)
Speaker grill cleaned and painted
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00033.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00036.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00042.jpg)
Pedal box cleaned,painted and installed
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00046.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC06720.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC06722.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC06715.jpg)
And more goodies some of which will hopefully be installed over the weekend.More soon,Jamie.

Jamie,

Outstanding work, not too far to go now!

Keith

Makes you sick, doesn't it  :P

I like these updates.

nice metalwork!

Cheers

Ed

Really nice build and the detail in this build is second to none.

I am also interested in the other early in the shed as  I have the brother site to this fxfjholden.com

Cheers

Jason

Thanks guys,I always feel bad when my updates are so lame but I feel that people might still want to know what's going on.Glenn...hehehe...don't beat yourself up so much.I wish I had half of your ability when it comes trim but there are some things that I will leave to others.I haven't done anything special here,just gave everything a red hot go and learned a lot from the results (mistakes)...more soon.

lame?   LAME???     ??? ??? ::)

(OK then, this is what I've learnt today - I find 'lame' updates entertaining, educational, inspirational and valuable...
 and I'm bloody certain I'm not on me 'Pat Malone' either)

more lame updates please, Jamie

Makes me want to get outside and fire up the mig and start welding :)
Cheers
Deano

G'day Jamie, I should have looked on here before I answered your pm, neat bit of fabrication there (as usual), good to see things coming together for you 8) 8).
                      Pedro

X2 More "lame" updates required!!!

Keith

I have just read this post start to end, what an amazing story, thank for sharing it.  Can't wait to read the ending  :)

Ok,ok I get it...Lame probably wasn't the right word to use.Anyway,while we're on the subject of updates,here's what I created today (not an original idea but one I've had since I picked up these gauges cheap at a garage sale)along with washing all the windows in the house,painting doors and god only knows what else in order to get this house ready for sale. ::) .In the last couple days I have also managed to get the glovebox lid and brackets stripped,painted and assembled as well as the wiper block and arms fitted and handbrake assembly stripped and painted.NT-FC,I sometimes go back to the start and read this thread myself.Sometimes I can't believe how much work I have done on this thing and other times I wonder why....More soon.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00052.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00053.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00056-2.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00055-1.jpg)
Gauge pod/ash tray now in primer...

What about a small servo motor they appear when the ignition is on and dissappear when you turn it off,i reckon that would be cool 8)
Some food for thought.
Cheers
Deano

Great idea Deano!....maybe on the next one ::)

like your work. keep it up, she looks sweet

This is great, I have guys who don't even like Holdens (Mopar heads) who are watching this with interest!

Hi all,thanks for all the comments.Unfortunately it has been a case of two steps forward and three back lately.As I mentioned earlier we were selling our house.Got it ready within two weeks and sold it two days after signing with the realestate agent,didn't even get to advertise it!Found a four bedroom rental with a 20x30 shed on it (room for all our cars).That was the two steps forward...Last week I had just started to get back into working on the FC when we were hit by a storm which involved 120mm of rain in 10hours and that was just a couple of downpours not 120mm of steady rain!!!We were lucky enough to not get any in the house (although it was very close,started coming in to the house garage but managed to get some sand bags just in time) but the shed was not so lucky.I can't begin to explain the feeling I had when I looked out the back of the house and saw the whole back yard under water knowing full well it was in my shed....When I opened the door the water didn't run in or out,it was already full and level with the back yard (was up to my knees on the way to the shed).Knowing the house was safe and not knowing how much higher it was going to get,I immediately started jacking up the FJ to put it on axle stands as it is far more important than the FC.My brother in law then brought down some more stands to put under the FC.It makes me realise what others have had to go through with floods and also how lucky we were to only lose a small amount.One of my grinders,my air compressor and my Dewalt cordless drill were all sitting on the floor and are all cactus along with a lot of other bits and pieces not worth claiming but as I said it could have been a lot worse.Needless to say,slopping around in other peoples Sh*t (literally)at 2.30 in the morning is not my idea of a good night.Anyway,I spent all day last Saturday shoveling and washing out the mud.I have made some progress and have got all the door locks and strikers installed and started on the glass as well as good progress on the front guards.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00057.jpg)
House sold
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/17112010029.jpg)
Fc on the move to the rental
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00084-1.jpg)
Water!!This is not nearly as high as it got but the first chance I had to take photos..
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00088.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00081.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC06852.jpg)
Aftermath.More soon,Jamie.

Not good! I'm glad mine is up in the sky now.
Have you got laid-up cover on the FC or the FJ?

Yes but no money could replace the FJ.... ???

Geez Jamie talk about a step backwards. I hate having to clean my garage at the best of times, but to have to clean it up after a flood, would be heartbreaking.

I hope that everything comes out OK and the insurance covers most of your losses.

Keith

I feel for you Jamie.  :-\  Hopefully all will be ok with them both in the long run.

What a bastard, hope the insurance will come to the party for you jamie. look on the bright side you get some new tools.

Dean.

I hope this was a temporary move to this house not long term or you will need 2 hoists to get the old girls up in the air.

unlucky Jamie,

at least you managed to keep them from irreparable damage.

I guess it will make the finished product that much sweeter.

Cheers

Ed

Thanks guys,this is only temporary as we are building a new house and best of all a new 25' x 50' shed (all going well).Cheers,Jamie.

They are photo's I hope you never have to take again Jamie.

Hopefully your new shed is the first getting built just so the toys can move in and be safe from water damage.

JB

That's the plan.No guarantees from the insurance yet as to if they will cover my tools.There are so many loopholes!!!! >:(

Well,I managed to get both back doors done yesterday and I must say it was one of the more painfull jobs I've had to do mainly because I got the sequence all wrong.I cleaned all the windows I had in stock to find the best ones as I suspect the owner of the Black FC had kids who had damaged all of the rear windows with huge scratches on them including the rear screen.I found a good left rear window in  my double green sedan but after I got it out found it had no winder rail on the bottom and it was not in the door either???I have seen them come off before but where did it go?Weird.Anyway,I had to split the rail of the original glass then attach it to the better one.Not an easy job but turned out ok.If anyone was to try this I would suggest firstly be sure you are wearing Safety glasses AND a face shield and probably gloves (toughened glass generally doesn't like being unevenly heated) as I had to heat the rail with a heat gun to loosen the rubber then prise it off with a small screw driver.Anyway,worked fine.The sequence I came up with (not necessarily correct but worked) was, (1)put in quarter window,(2)place felt channel into rear guide upright and place loosely in the door location,(3)insert front felt channel into door,(4)install felt door belts to top of window opening (where glass comes trough)(5)install window glass into door and align into front and rear tracks then slide about halfway up,(6)put in top rivets on rear guide upright and wind out the adjuster screw on the bottom including the washer and nut,(7)put in top felt channel(8)install winder assembly then test.I've made it sound easier than it is and it took me a few goes to get this right as the rear guide upright has to be on an angle to get the glass in which means the top felt can't be in yet and I found it almost impossible to put in the door belt felts with the glass in the door so had to pull it all apart again including drilling out the rivets.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00097.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00096.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00098.jpg)
More soon. 

Fantastic build Jamie very inspiring

Congrats. on the sale of the house Jamie, how's the new shed coming along, I imagine you'd be impatient to get your cars out of that swamp.
              Pedro

Hi all.Well,it is incredible how quickly 3 months ticks by these days and unfortunately for all you loyal followers I don't really have anything massively exciting to show you.All I can say is that I have still been progressing albeit slowly.The only other unfortunate thing that has happened is our circumstanstances have changed dramatically and has forced me to have to...............................use second hand chrome parts instead of getting all my bits redone.I still need to spend a fair bit on the important stuff like brakes etc and I figured I can take off a lot of these bits (door handles,boot badge,headlight surrounds,bumpers) and get them done properly when I get a chance.Cash has been burnt up in other areas of our life at the moment and we have to move again so I want to get the Black FC finished (or at least drivable) before that happens.Here's what's been happening......
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00005-1.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00015-1.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00020-1.jpg)
Some small bits painted ,some fitted.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00028-1.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00053-1.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00051-1.jpg)
Front window glass all disassembled,cleaned,painted,reassembled and fitted.I can't afford new windows so this will have to do although the flapping will probably drive me nuts....hehehehe....
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00035.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00036-1.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00002-1.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00046-1.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00052-1.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00043-1.jpg)
Front guards repaired,redrilled,hi-filled and guide coated.In the last photo I used a laser level to project an accurate line down the front guard to lay out the trim holes.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00056-3.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC00055-2.jpg)
This is one of my best boot badges with a new insert and will have to do for the time being.Will be blocking back and painting the guards soon and will provide some more updates then.Cheers,Jamie.

Jamie,

Your car is looking great, sorry to hear that you have to move again and you have been having a tough time recently. As you say you can get the items rechromed at a later date. Keep at it, and keep us updated on your progress.

Keith

The plastic in the previous photos was so I could give the car a wash as it was covered in crap and potentially fine metal particles from sanding/grinding which have become airborne and landed on the car.With the dewy mornings now approaching,the last thing I wanted was the particles starting to rust on the paint.While I was chamoising the car off I thought the paint still felt quite gritty only to find that despite my best efforts it appears that there is a fine mist of what seems to be paint dust all over the car.I was pretty pi#$@d when I saw this but after a couple of nerve calming ales I tried some hand polish and it came off...phew!Whole car will need another good polish anyway once I'm done.
 (http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC06959.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC06958.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC06960.jpg)
More soon.

Looks great Jamie glad the paint dust came offits good to have a win every now and then

looks great Jamie - slowly but surely and you'll get there in no time  :)

Amazing job Jamie,

"clay" gets rid of misty overspray.

Cheers

Ed

Thanks all and thanks Ed,I'll go and scrape some out from under the guards on my Rodeo and give that a try.....hehehehe... :P ::)

Just make sure you sieve out the bigger rocks out from the under guard clay Jamie ;).

You mustn't have too far to go now, it's looking great.

Dean.

Thanks Dean.I keep going back to your thread and thinking how cool the "Ratty Taxi" would be if you could get it on the road looking like it does in your pictures.The reality is that it is hard to get a car straight back on the road from straight out of a shed as there is normally a lot of hidden rust in the chassis sections etc.I would have loved to have just registered my Black FC and driven as is.Lucky I didn't,it would have broke in half at the first bump.....

Bit more done over the last few days....
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FCrebuildstill569A.jpg)
Engine bay cleaned again,
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/CopyofFCrebuildstill638A.jpg)
Front loom,repaired and installed.Was in really good nick so I just stripped off all the tape,added some extra wires for the electric wiper motor then retaped the whole thing.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FCrebuildstill574A.jpg)
Hard to believe this is the original dash surround,it looks like new!
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FCrebuildstill571A.jpg)
After some handy tips from another Black sedan driver I managed to install the new lettering on my gauges.Big thankyou Kathi,they look great!!!!!Pity I couldn't get them perfectly straight but not too noticeable...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FCrebuildstill573A.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FCrebuildstill578A.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FCrebuildstill577A.jpg)
Not bad for mostly 50 plus year old parts,managed to find the original switch for the wiper motor which all fits perfectly and looks original.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/CopyofFCrebuildstill581A.jpg)
more soon.

That looks awesome. Nothing like an unscratched engine bay.

It all looks great Jamie ;D  and funnily enough, it looks all very familiar!  ;)

Glad we could help out, if only in a little way.  :)

You've helped out in a huge way!Don't be deceived by the photo,there are plenty of scratches in that engine bay already but I'm learning to deal with them.  :-\

Jamie,

Your car looks great, I can't wait to see it in the flesh. Not too far to go now!

Keith

Jamie
Don't be too concerned about the letters, they were never straight from factory and moved with time anyway.
Where did you get the decals?
Car is looking great.
Regards
Alex

Thanks Alex,Kathi organised the labels from a guy that has a shop at the Brick Works markets here in Adelaide I believe.Is that right Kathi?

Car is looking great Jamie, but like Kathi I may be a bit biased. Dave

Looks awesome!

correct Jamie - I worked out the right font style, sizes and exact spacings for each gauge then did multiples of them on a page before e-mailing them to the computer sticker guy and getting them printed back to front (so that the sticky side sticks to the inside of the gauge glass). I got half an A4 page printed and it cost me about $2 for each set and gave my spares to a few people to help with their projects.  ;) 

I think I've still got the template document at work - I'll check tomorrow.  If I've still got it I'm more than happy to forward it to anyone who wants it.  :)

Kathi

Sorry Jamie - not trying to move in on your thread.......

I do have the gauge template document - so - if any one is wanting it sent to them please PM me. 

yeah,yeah,sure,sure Kathi...I believe ya....Thousands wouldn't. ;D But seriously,thanks again. ;)

Great Thread Jamie,

your work is top grade and that engine bay is something you must sit back when you take a break with a coffee and be proud of the commitment and hard work that shows and has paid off.... thankx for the inspiration and info to help me ( and all of us ) along... that shine inside the engine sparkles almost more than polished chrome

well done, i will be following your progress

Kathi PM Sent..Thankx in advance

" Have a Great Holden ( FE ) Day !! "  ;D ;D ;D

FE 4 ME

Thanks FE 4 ME and thanks all for the comments and encouragement.The hardest part of the whole rebuild has been staying focused,committed and enthusiastic.Some days you look at the car and think "man there's still so much to do" and other days you just get straight in there and do it.I'm on afternoon shift for vintage (or what vintage there is...) so I have made a little more progress.Have got the whole dash in (except for the plumbing on the heater and the glove box),connected and running including the extras I have installed like the heater,radio and electric wipers and so far with the exception of a couple of blown globes it all works.I have installed orange globes in the back for the indicators as the lenses I have installed are clear and they work a treat.Have now started on the brakes.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC07021.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC07025.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC07027.jpg)
More soon.

Sorry again Jamie (but it really is your fault  ;))

I’ve had a few enquiries about the gauge template and I need to clarify exactly what it is just in case people think I have a nice little stock of stickers to give away.  Any spares that I did have were given away a while ago and I’m not getting anymore made up as I don’t have a need for them.

What I am offering to give to people is a “Word” document that is effectively a template for you to give (electronically) to someone who does computer cut stickers. I’ve already forwarded the document to a number of people with a suggestion that they “band together” and get a number of them done at the same time. 

I understand that one of the guys I sent it to was looking at getting some done – I will leave it up to him to decide if he wants to start another thread to see if anyone else is interested in joining in with him.  I’d also be quite happy for one of the Clubs to undertake a fundraising venture by getting a heap of stickers done and then on-selling them.

Sorry if anyone misinterpreted my earlier post and thought I had a heap of the actual stickers to give away.  :-[

I’m still happy to receive PM’s from people wanting the document sent to them so they can organise for their own stickers to be made.  :)

Again, my apologies Jamie.  :-*

Jamie, those gauges in the ashtray are just the ducks guts! Great stuff  8) 8) 8)

(I'd copy your idea except I don't have an ashtray...)

cheers, jack

Jamie those Gauges are very kool, i remember installing those gauges in my RX3 when i was very young, very kool, very retro, designed to last...so where's your lighter going to go for your GPS or Coffee warmer ?  :D

Jamie are you running the original wiring or have you replace most of the wiring ??

Kathi, i understood it is a template your willing to share, thankx, i will get a price to print them out , see what i can do, as i do know a cheap printing company..but they do print in bulk or big orders....  to be honest it's such a gr8 idea to fund raise the profits Kathi... so i will talk to my other QLD FE/FC club members and see if this can be done for our club to grow, be good to pour the money back to the worthy..the QLD FE/FC Club are a gr8 bunch, I'm so glad i joined...and other QLD Forum friends i encourage you to join too !!  :o
 

Keep up the gr8 work Jamie, plenty of ideas


" Have a Great Holden ( FE ) Day !! "   ;D

FE 4 ME

Lots of nice neat little tricks here, the gauges look fantastic mate... Glad it passed the smoke test, if you want some more wiring to tackle feel free to wander over my way...  ;D ;D

Cheers
JB

Jamie,
   I assume your using the original wiring, as i just read another one of your threads, funny enough i was in conversation on the weekend regarding the white wire from the column , and as you have realise it was only for the FE combo rear tail lights, which i was interested in, as i have to reconnect all my electric spaghetti at some stage.

so glad to have helped hehehehehe  :P :P :P

still re-reading this thread Jamie, 2 coffee's later and im not even close to half way through, it's nearly about as long as the work you have put into it...  :o  inspiring and thankx for taking the time to fill us in on thr hints and skills and also all the other members' input to.

your doin such gr8 work, beyond my experience, so it's gr8 to sit and look at a master craft look easy, knowing how hard it really is for ppl like me, im just glad my rust was all done before it lived in my garage

keep goin mate, it's beta than a Street Mag read !!   :P :P

" Have A Great Holden ( FE ) Day !! "  :D :D :D



FE 4 ME

Looks like someone else has got the stickers up and running on this forum

http://fefcholden.org.au/forum/index.php/topic,19222.0/topicseen.html




well as long as it all helps the FE/FC car owners i'm all smiles   ;D

thankx for the email Kathi


FE 4 ME   :D

Hey, I was wondering if you have a longer term vision for this car, like what sort of motor are u going to run mate and also have you changed your mind much through the build. I was actually thinking, with my newly aquired fc black taxi with same interior as yours, i was thinking of going for a flat black look to make it look like a "ratty taxi"....I think I heard of that somewhere  :D

Not sure what that would look like with the chrome though. What do you think, I would like your thoughts as you have just seen what colours look like in the flesh.

I could go back to the 2 tone ascot grey but the whole point is bringing it back to a taxi. I like some of the models that have only black quarters and guards and the rest white but it was a different company. have you seen my pics and links on my taxi build site, so good old pics of black cars. see how some have a white strip on the roof  :D

Looking good Jamie.

I like the pop up gauges in the ashtray!

Keith

Your doing a fantastic job there Jamie it realy does look good

Thanks all.Hey Deano,it's your car so I'd suggest you do what ever you like.Going by what you have previously written,you were trying to keep the "theme" car original to Taxi form and the other a mild custom.My Black FC is an original all black car with Fall red and Black interior and was not a Taxi as I know of it's history.It was completely reconditioned (Engine,rubbers,steering etc) prior to being taken on holiday to Darwin back in the late 70's then was purchased by the last owner before being put in the shed for the last 30 years or so.Probably explains why it had so much mud everywhere as I expect there would not have been as many sealed roads back then.When I got the car,I got it going and took it for a drive around the block and could not believe how well it steered and handled.Steering box is solid as a rock with no play in it at all.Should be even better now as the whole front and rear ends have been rebuilt using NOS everthing.Bought all new master and slave cylinders for it yesterday and have now made up most of the new brake lines.At the end of the day,it's your car/s and you have to be happy with them so go with that.I have tried to make the Black FC "reasonably" close to original.Will be a little lower than standard,slightly wider wheels with original caps and the Grey motor with twins and Speco exhaust manifolds.Only upgrades as you can see are the electric wipers and the heater but these are all Period accessories.More soon,Jamie.

Thanks mate. Perhaps I could try to find some sort of black primer and see what that looks like in a flatter tone, that may be the go.

SPRAY CHIEF make a black Epoxy  2k primer satin finish and can be top coated with either 2k or acrylic lacquer ....FC427......

Thats good to know fe428  :D, so is that primer going to stick to whetever is underneath too, say if a car is a bit all over the place (just for future reference if I go a good guard or somethjing) is that epoxy stuff not going to bubble and carry on?

fcwithc3po ;D  If your surface  preporation  is done properly no problems .......FC427......

Jamie,
   your work and skill is amazing and inspirational..... gr8 to see your skills at work..inspiring me to go out there and get some old panels and get to work and practise

keep your very skilled work coming, im sure it's helping and informing many of us on here....

you prove nothing is impossible when you push through it......  or if your part owner in BHP and BOC   ;D ::) :D ;D

Gr8 work mate !!

" Have A Great Holden ( FE ) Day !! "   :D :D :D


FE 4 ME

Thanks fc427, ill put that into the ole memory bank....til i forget doh  :D. I think all the paint info is great for the point that this project is at. Its great to see someone have a go at all the aspects of a build, even if its not your strong point....very inspirational.

Bit more done today.New brake master and slave cylinders all round.Made up new lines as well just to be sure.Also managed to get the first of the base coats on the drivers front guard.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC07032.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC07037.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC07038.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC07046.jpg)
More soon.Jamie.

Nice!

So you have found the brake lines easy to do?

How much is it per metre? Do the end caps cost much also?

JB

Hey JB,I wouldn't say the lines were easy to do.Took a bit to get the tools working correctly and made a couple small mistakes but learned pretty quick.The tubing was about $4 a metre and the tube connectors about $2 each.Not sure which end caps you mean but if you are talking about the slave cylinder rods,these are my originals just cleaned and painted.The cylinders come as bare items with all internals and no rods.Jamie.

same with my fc, i had a lot of rust as well, replaced the floor panels, re fabricated the whole back under the boot (where alot of the rust starts) i agree with the other guys be patient and you will get there, expecially if you know what your'e doing. Cant wait to see the end result i think they look good in black and as you know the body has to be dead straight.. good luck and look forward to seeing more pics.. :)

Dianne

Rebuilding the motor at the moment or at least giving it a brief freshen up.Picked up a brand new cam with alloy timing gear at a local swapmeet today.Was tagged "Holden grey motor 1/4 race".Still haven't verified it's authenticity.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC07110.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC07108.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC07106.jpg)
More soon.

actually..........if its not what u want later would make a good dunny role holder.  :D

Nice work.

Hey Jamie, what colour red is that on the inner doors, colour, is acrylic with clear or what sort of paint is it. See on the taxi build, the interior colour, do you think the red you have would go with my interior? Don't just say 'its up to you' I want your opinion  :)

Hey Deano,the interior red was eye matched to the original Fall Red which seems to be very close and is Acrylic with no clear.I expect you are trying to come up with this kind of combination.....
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC07112.jpg)
I bought this one a couple years ago just because it was a black FC with red interior.Some of you may be interested to know that progress has also commenced on our block and the new shed is well underway.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_000171.jpg)
Not huge by any standard but 25x50x10' should keep me out of trouble for a while and gives me a couple more bays for any "future projects" (hope the wife never reads this...hehehehe).We are also about to move out of this "swamp" in a couple of weeks and into a property only a very short distance (150m or so)from our block which will slow down progress on the FC but ultimately will be for the better.More soon.Jamie.

Nice shed Jamie.......I'll swap you for the tarp the Taxi is under ;D.

It will be good when you have everything sorted with the new house. Like you said, it may put you behind but in the long term it will be for the best.

Cheers,
          Dean.

Yes jamie, thats the idea.

Hi all,moving sucks............Only good thing is at least it SHOULD be the second to last time for a long while!!!It has obviously slowed down any progress on the FC but has been good progress on it's future home so for now,just a couple of boring shed photos.Had some very heavy rain here shortly after we moved in and was such a relief to not have to get up at 2 in the morning to sand bag the shed!!!I have it on good authority that progress pics will be forthcoming shortly as I know a guy who is totally awesome at auto trimming and he reckons he has something for me......stay tuned....
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_000193.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_000194.jpg)
FC on arrival at the new house...might have to nickname it "Patch"....Plastic windsceen even stood up to 90km/h+ wind
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_000241.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_000240.jpg)
More soon.

That's a picture worth framing.......not the car pic, that last one of the shed!!!!
Beautiful shed for playing cars in.
Nice move.
Regards
Alex

I have to stop logging on, I either get car/project envy or bloody shed envy.

Im in enough trouble with the better half already without getting more ideas in my head!!!

That's what the forums' for isn't it? ;)  ....I bet that's how most of the projects on here started,becoming a bit envious...then buying a project ;D

Im with grandmasterb, Im sick of building this new house business, its interfering with my time in the shed and making me not feel like dismantling anymore cos ive gotta move it into new house and shed. the missus wants funds elsewhere.....I think she will just have to go out and work harder lol.

Hehehehehe....good luck with that Deano!!!Let me know how you get on......

.....and by the way Deano,Pedro and anyone else who has had to to move a project,I know exactly how you feel.It is extremely frustrating trying to find things again after moving and motivation is low as you said Deano.I am particularly stressed at the moment as I am spending a lot of time at the block as well getting storm water and the likes done.The freezing weather is not helping either.I just need to get into some routine again as I am really not that far from finished.Thanks for the replies though guys,it does keep me somewhat enthused.....

Nice Shed Jamie. Looks great.  8)
Your build has certainly been an inspiration to me and your pictures have helped a great deal, and given me motivation to keep going.
Made me get off my butt today and actually accomplish something.
Nick

I hear your pain mate, moved the project over 3000km's and 12 months off it... where to start sometimes is hard to come by.

Cheers
JB

Thanks guys,I just keep trying to concentrate on the big picture.....that is when everything else is finished (sort of) then I can really enjoy the new shed and finish off these projects at my own pace.

Very true and Im always getting new ideas when I read the forum its just a pity I had to sell my project last year so I can try any of them out :(

ooohhhhh yeah,now we're talking....
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC07118.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC07120.jpg)
Big thanks to the super trim guru AKA Stinky for his awesome job on the seats and headlining.More soon....

WOW :o Those seats look amazing. Great job Stinky 8)

Ditto, they are fantastic Stinky.  :P

Regards


Wayne B

have to agree....they look the goods Stinky, very nice, as does the car and the shed.

keep up the good work Jamie

So  are the top sections original late 59 or are they repro now as i threw my old covers out to get a velour interior done ..


Will PM stinky i want the whole interior done back to factory look.




Pete

Hey Pete,my original seats had the embosing being a late 59 car and I probably wouldn't have had the seats redone unless I could get the embossing done again.I am not sure whether Glenn did this himself or outsourced it (he probably did tell me) but it looks absolutley original and I know that he spent many dead hours chasing this up to get this just right.Cheers,Jamie.

Hi jamie I think I can remember stinky talking about trying out the embossing in another post when he had just started out doing his own upholstery business, if it looks that good he will be definitely doing my interior great work. Thanx grubby

Where ha ???s my fave car fabricator/builder gone!

Still here guys but between building a house and recent birthdays etc etc I have been a bit quiet  :-\ .Will have a small update after tomorrow though all going well....Stay tuned.Jamie.

Not to mention my computer being wiped out by a virus a couple weeks ago   >:( (needing a full format,just got it up and running last night) and I also note that I just missed the 4th anniversary of the build!!!!! :'(

We don't want excuses  :P If I am stripping my knuckles, i wanna make sure others are  too lol.

Hey, if welding small stuff, like tubing, do u think 20l per minute is too much gas for mig? or should I give it a bit more. Its in the shed too.  ;D

If your regulator is like mine 12-15 is plenty, that's just inside the "green zone" on my reg.

I run mine at just under 20L/min but will work at less but I'm no expert...

I should've added, I did a Welding Course at TAFE and this was the recommended setting otherwise you are just wasting gas and dollars.
One other tip that will save dollars in busted regulator diaphragms, don't just turn the gas on/off at the bottle. When finished welding, back the regulator right off and drain the gas from the welder (pulling the trigger with unit off should do it). When you turn the gas back on for another session, just reset the regulator to the correct pressure.
Being "self-taught" I never knew this and broke a regulator or two  :-[

Sounds like good advice Glenn although pulling the trigger with the unit off won't release the gas as there is a gas solenoid which runs the gas out to the tip and this won't activate with the unit off.

I tried it and mine does let me empty all the gas as Stinky suggested (after use)  without the unit on, as many times a I pull the trigger?

Mine must be "special"  ??? Either way, the main point is to not turn the gas bottle on with the regulator set.

(http://i1182.photobucket.com/albums/x448/fewithrb40/taxipic.png)

I wouldn't have posted the pic normally on a build page, but thought you might be interested, seeing that you have a black car with same interior as mine. See the stripe on the roof, the difference when they went to the FC is that they painted right up to the window. This was the opening of the same taxi service that mine came from a few years earlier. Look how clean and proud everyone was.

Hi all...yes,yes still alive (barely,have Pharyngitis at the moment!).Now I'm not sure if this counts as an update but if it doesn't it might explain why there haven't been any.Over the last three weeks,our house was finished,(we started moving in on Christmas day)we spent all of Christmas night in Gawler hospital after my three year old copped a cricket bat in the back of the head and had to be glued then six days later our second child Alice Lily was born on new years eve and since then I've spent the rest of my holiday trying to get the ducted air conditioner installed which is what I think has triggered off the Pharyngitis.But after all that,we are finally HOME!And all my beauties finally have a shed to dwell in without threat of moving again.I promise there will updates but possibly not for a couple weeks at least.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/ournewhouse001.jpg)
New House
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/ournewhouse004.jpg)
My beauties in their new shed
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/AliceLily028-1.jpg)
Alice Lily born 31/12/11 weighing 7lb11oz,more soon.

Well done mate. You must take a minute and a step back and just think of all the wonderful things you have achieved in your life so mar mate.  :'( One day all the blood sweat and tears will be all behind you. It is people like you who are really 'having a go' that should inspire us all! Well done on all of you achievements so far and I look forward to meeting you one day at some event and hopefully mine (projects) will be finished as well so we can compare notes  ;)

Hey thanks Deano,not sure if I deserve such high praise but thanks again.

Great stuff Jamie,
House, shed and kids all look great  :)
Slow and steady wins the race, and also a good balance between work, family and shed.
Always look forward to seeing your progress on all things Holden,
hope you built on the high side off the street so no more floods.


Cheers Stewy   8)

Congratulation Jamie.
cheers
Scott

Yes Stewy,we certainly did!Cheers all.

Hey Jamie.
Congrats all round.
Some great reasons for lack of progress.
By the look of the yard, the car may have some competition for attention though.
However if your daughter has lungs like mine, I am sure you would just be pleased to be out of the house.
Regards
Alex

Congratulations Jamie,

Happy New House, Happy New Shed, Happy New Daughter and Happy New Year!

I hope that all goes well with you in 2012,

Good luck with everything!

Keith

Congrats Jamie, I agree with Keith, happy new everything, now you just have to find some spare time to finish the rebuild. All looks fantastic and your little girl,,, so cute.
Regards Jim

Well,in a totally unexplained and unexpected turn of events...I have an update for you!After some debt consolidation during the greater part of the day I managed to wander out to the shed and got a bit done.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FCrebuild001A.jpg)
Got the left front guard sound deadener on
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_000760A.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_000759A.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_000758A.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_000761A.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_000762A.jpg)
Then got it's first 5 coats of colour on.Looks like I've still got it....whatever "it" is.......
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FCrebuild022A.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FCrebuild025A.jpg)
Admittedly got these done a while ago but first chance I've had to show them.Have fitted the stainless to one and hopefully get the rest done soon.You would not believe how good it felt to get a couple hours on the FC again!Am trying to factor all my "new house and new daughter" obligations in around a project I started over FOUR! years ago.More soon.

Great stuff Jamie. What sound deadner are you using?

Regards Wayne b

This is the one I have been using throughout the build,got it from the paint supplies place where I bought all my Protec stuff.The gun screws into the top and makes it a very convenient way to apply it.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_000773A.jpg)
Cheers.Jamie.

that's good sound deadener, we use to use it inside hydraulic hammers on excavators to make them more quite and it worked very well, knocked about 20db of the sound, doesn't sound like much but 20db when you up around 140-150bd without it, it good stuff,

one thing i can say about it, is dont spray it to thick as it will peal, just one even layer, and it will last.

very nice build and good detailed pics as well,

Thnaks Jamie
Regards
Wayne b

Well done Jamie I appreciate the update.  ;)

Have had a bit of a tinker over the last couple of weeks.After struggling with the panel stands to find a successfull position for a front guard to rest while painting I eventually cracked the sh*ts and made up a panel specific frame for holding the guard while painting (and rubbing back and possibly even panel beating I guess) which allows me to get the exact angle for painting in order to reach all areas easily and without any of the paintable part of the guard touching the stand.It also works on both guards just by flipping it over.Very basic and lazy I know and considering I have already painted these guards several times already using the panel stands...Also have the engine assembled and ready for paint.Need to make up some specific hold downs for the inlet and exhaust manifolds as they are an odd size and the thickness of the two are different.Have tried the originals and they just don't work.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FCrebuild003A.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FCrebuild001A-1.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FCrebuild006A.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FCrebuild007A.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FCrebuild005A.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FCrebuild008A.jpg)
Sorry it's not much,hopefully more soon.Cheers,Jamie.

I had this problem too Jamie, from memory, I ground down one side of the longer exhaust thingoes and for the ones with just a bolt and washer I think I used the small square red motor ones and did the same with those.

Be sure to get your exhaust and inlet manifolds shaved flat

I like the "Transformer" guard stands very neat

Keep up the progress!

Gary

Oh yeah....I did this too....
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FCrebuild010a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FCrebuild012a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FCrebuild013a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FCrebuild022a-1.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FCrebuild019a.jpg)
Still needs plenty of refinement ie fuel lines and rocker cover hold downs and needs a bit more detail but will have to do for the time being.I hunted high and low for a set of bright blue spark plug leads as I know how much everyone loves them (especially Stinky!)but no luck so I'm sticking to the black ones. :P More soon.

Beautiful, that's all I want to say.

Regards

Wayne b

Nice work buddy,i think you might 'regret' paint'n the manifold,especialy with those ever reliable leaking strommies.Gaz!

I am with Wayne..

Nice work Jamie, similar to mine except I have made a one peice air cleaner and used a 180b sss element. I'll post a few shots later on.
Regards Jim

Hey thanks guys.I decided to paint the manifold mainly because I am of the opinion that unless I spend a fair amount of money having it professionally polished it will never look the way I want it to and it almost blends it into the the original "theme" of the car.Both carbs now have rebuild kits in them and the paint is 2 pack so hopefully it should be a little while before I "regret" painting the manifold... ???

 pictures look good but looks better in the flesh  ;D.   I see you got a bit more done. The 2 pack should take any seapage/leakage.

   Scott

engine looks great Jamie

Cheers

Ed

More...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FCrebuild027a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FCrebuild028a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FCrebuild032a.jpg)
Yay!It's in....(No other comments here please  :P)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FCrebuild033a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FCrebuild034a.jpg)
She sits a bit lower now! 8)  More soon.

Nice VH in the background. My first car was an SL/E 5L. What's in that one?

Won't be long now and she should be on the road ... Whats left to do?

Hey Nes,the VH I have owned for 19 years and runs a 308-355 stroker with tuff trimatic and nine inch.Lots of fun...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Commy003.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/commyrebuild122.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/commyrebuild123.jpg)
thanks for the interest but I guess slightly off topic.
Hey JB,still have the exhaust,front and back windows,block and buff the front guards and bonnet,grille and front chrome and give it a good polish then drive the friggen wheels off it!

i still reckon the VH driveline in the black car would be cool.

Commodore is clean and tuff looking

(except for the poofy looking steering wheel) not my cup of tea.


clean engine bay and nice stance.

Pete

shhhh,the wife bought it for me and I'm still trying to replace it.  ::) Would like an original if I could find one in good nick as the original that was on it I stupidly painted grey for one of my other projects many years ago. :'(

Hehehe Ed,yeah that would be a handfull ;D!!

Ey Pete, if your drinking tea mate, you have more issues than the steering wheel  :D not a bad looking car for the era but not my keg of beer, I'd prefer pre 76 ish cars.

Clean VH mate, looks like an SL. Wish I could have one of those again.
Thanks for the photos

If you believe that then you believe my cars never get flogged and only get driven to church on Sundays.
I know of a blue one getting wrecked I'll look at the .
I'm not that into commodores but like pre vl.
Vl Calais especially silver on dark silver.

(I hate tea)

hahaha guys,I'm not that into Commodores either actually but I guess after nearly 20 years it's hard to get rid of it.My first car was a HR which I sold then bought the commy as I needed something "more comfortable" at the time as I was doing 180km round trips to tafe in the early nineties.Since then all of the comfy bits are gone off the Commy like power steering and A/C.I think it's funny that now I really, really want to get back into a car which is unpredictable and far less comfy than what my commy was like back then...Can hardly wait to get the FC on the road and really DRIVE a car again. ;)

Theres one on ebay at the moment a dead ringer for yours

http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/VH-SLE-DRAG-CAR-HOLDEN-COMMODORE-/330728048498?pt=AU_Cars&hash=item4d00ed8772

Half tempted looks unreal.

Very tuff,and has the VN setup.Would sh*t all over mine...Not sure about the dead ringer part ???

After 6 stubbies and my really bad memory it was a dead ringer. :D

While I'm waiting for the paint on the guards to harden up a bit I decided to start on the exhaust starting with the flange plates....
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_000993.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_000994.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_000995.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_000998.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_000999.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_001000.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FCrebuild042a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FCrebuild043a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FCrebuild038a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FCrebuild039a.jpg)
Also made some custom linkages for the twins...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FCrebuild037a.jpg)

You would put a few exhaust shops to shame love your work.

Very very nice!!! Well done.  ;D

Hahaha maybe.Took me all bloody day though just to do the engine pipes... ::)

Yeah Jamie Great work.

I always think any job worth doing is worth doing well,
and if I'm not happy with it I don't expect anyone else to be happy with it either.
Keep up the great work and look forward to seeing the finished article.

Cheers Stewy   8)

Nice job Pete

Cheers Craig D

Jeez Jamie,

This thread is becoming car porn  ::)....I love it  ;D.

Dean.

Very impressive work Jamie, by the time you've finished the car will be better than when it was brand new.
            Pedro

That is excellent work on your exhaust.....

thankx for posting your very handy tricks to join and fab your exhaust pipes

wow what a great post of pics, im very impressed.... i assume it was a MIG you used on the stainless ? or TIG  i'm sure we all would like to sort our exhaust system out like that... im have mine to do... giving me some thoughts... or better yet might be best to have you come over and check up on mine   ???            ;)

anyway great work


FE 4 ME

Thanks for the comments all.FE 4 ME,I used a tig to do the exhaust and have since completed the whole system (pics soon).Hey Pedro,good to have you back and following up on your comment,by the time I get the car finished...it will be time to rebuild it again!!!! :P ::) ???

nice pipes!

Thanks all,got this done on the weekend.Now I'm sick again!!!
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_001010a.jpg)
Exhaust finished and is on the car
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_001011a.jpg)
Original grille/original chrome has a few blemishes but will do for now
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_001035a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_001037a.jpg)
Guards blocked and buffed
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_001040a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_001042a.jpg)
All on including the NOS blinker lenses,more soon.

You've gotta be happy with that Jamie, that looks awesome 8) 8).
            Pedro

yeah very sweet...

Lookin' good Jamie, lookin' good!!

Dean.

nice shiny chrome, did you use tools or old fashion elbow grease?

Looking very sweet.   Won't be long now.    Dave

Thanks all.Oggz,I used Autosol then put on my buff then clean up with a polishing cloth.Cheers,Jamie

Hi Jamie,
Looking really good  :)
What type of buff are you using ?
I need to update my bench grinder and wondered what others recommend.

Cheers Stewy   8)

I don't know what it is exactly
but this car would give a jelly fish a horn!

Maybe the factory black and the amount of detail and quality workmanship gone into the rebuild- it just works
grats on a brilliant job thus far - nearly there now!

M@

Hi all,back again.Just following up on your question Stewy this is the buff I am using.Started off life as a Buff,Fine Grinding wheel,Coarse Grinding wheel and wire wheel.Now anyone who thought it would be a good idea to put a buffing wheel right a long side a grinding wheel really needs to reassess their IQ as the two don't mix!Hence I have modified mine to buff/buff,grinding,wire and will soon lose the second grinding wheel and just be buff/Wire and buy a second bench grinder.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_001061a.jpg)
Apart from that I have managed to get a bit more done...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC07819.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC07820.jpg)
Door trims on...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_001212a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_001211a.jpg)
Made some kick panels and covered them (anyone see whats wrong in these pictures...Yep fell for the old three card trick and and copied the template without flipping it over.Luckily it just fitted on the vinyl)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_001227a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_001293a.jpg)
Got the new shocks in...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_001256a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_001262a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_001263a.jpg)
Rares seat surrounds that I have had for two years finally fitted!

Oh yeah,then I did this....
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_001264a.jpg)
Got the sun visors and rear view mirror in...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_001269a.jpg)
And the glove box...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_001250a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_001249a.jpg)
Then the heater and demisters....

seats and interior look awesome Jamie.

Then after that I ....
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FCrebuild077a.jpg)
Put the carpets in
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FCrebuild075a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_001271a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_001270a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_001272a.jpg)
Then the seats.....

Thanks for the info on the bench grinder Jamie

Awsome job on the interior, getting very close to driving the wheels off it.

Bet you can't wait after all the hard work you have put in

Cheers Stewy   8)

Dirty boot prints on the carpet. AAAAAAAAAHHH

Jamie, that is one sweet looking unit, everything looks great installed. I bet it is a releif to have that much done, but I did notice that you left out the ash tray on the front seat(intentional or forgetfull). It gives me the kick start I need to pull my finger out and do some more on mine although work and renos at home have a lot to do with it.
Regards Jim

And then....
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_001251a.jpg)
Out of sync but made up a new back parcel shelf and got it covered (Thanks Glenn)...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_001248a.jpg)
Bought a new windscreen...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_001252a.jpg)
and got it fitted...

Nice work Jamie

Cheers

Craig D

And after all that (I'm snubbing the intermediate posts for now,no offence...)...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_001277a.jpg)
removed the Special badges and...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_001287a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_001288a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_001284a.jpg)

had to to buff the whole car with two pack cutter to get the  spray dust off then gave it a hand polish....

then continued to....
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_001283a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FCrebuild080a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FCrebuild081a.jpg)
here where I loaded Black FC on the trailer today and took it to the local Police station for a vehicle inspection to check chassis and engine number....

Then suddenly it looked like this.....
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FCrebuild082a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FCrebuild086a.jpg)



HEY WAIT A MINUTE!ARE THEY SA PLATES I SEE!!!



Yep,you saw it here first folks.Ladies and Gentlemen,boys and girls.Black FC is finally finished!!!!Today was a pretty big day.Got the police check done then straight to rego then a quick strap down the park for some photos.Except for the ash tray which was neither forgotten nor intentionally left out (still trying to find the original one).This thread is not yet finished...

Looks like it just rolled off the production line  ;D

You've been playing with us all thinking it must be time for an update.

Next club meeting next tuesday will expect to see it there  :D

Cheers Stewy   8)

That's looking absolutely beautiful!!!!
Congrats on the completion of the project and the recent rego.
I hope to see it in the metal some day.
Regards
Alex

congratulations Jamie - you should be very proud of your hard work.

I'm sure the smile is pretty hard to keep from your face at the moment. 

See you on the road someday.  :)

John and Kathi

As I said ,well done,it must feel really great to see all that hard work finally on the road and registered. If you can't find your ash tray I have a spare one in the shed.
Regards Jim

Funny , was just thinking the other day that there are a few builds coming to a close.
Well done mate. Satisfaction of a job well done. Now for the driving pleasure!
Awesome work mate, it looks a beaut!!!
Cheers
JB

Excellent looking car you have revived there Jamie

Top marks, very smart looking

I look forward to seeing it, Tasmania Nats?

Gary

I need a little emoticon that is Green... with envy!!
Congrats mate

Thank you all for your kind words.It still is hard to believe that after almost 5 years it is finally finished.When I say finished I mean that it is complete but since yesterday I have changed the carby as I was having trouble with the other one.Yes I hear you say "but you had twins on it".I did but was having some dramas so decided to put the single back on for the time being just to get it running right.As it turns out,it would appear that the problem was with the one carby in the first place so I'll eventually sort that out and try the twins again.The other addition will be the R Series number plates which will be here in a couple weeks.As you can see it has the standard issue Temp plates on it till then.I took it for a quick strap tonight to see what it revs like at speed and it would appear that I will almost certainly be putting the 3.55 diff centre in it also as it is screaming at about what feels like 80kph.I'll charge up the TomTom tonight and put that in it to get an accurate speed measurement.Most of all I would like to thank each and every member of this forum who contributed to this build either with parts or labour or just plain knowledge or encouragement.The thing that still amazes me the most is that I managed to stay focused and committed during all the things that have happened to me during this build.It makes you appreciate how hard that can be when you do it yourself.I am pleased that so many of you comment on my results as the only two things I didn't do myself were trim the interior (thanks Glenn) and fit the front and back windscreen (thanks Wayne).Cheers,Jamie

Awesome milestone Jamie, well done mate

That is Beautifull

A set of original dress rims would really set it off..


Looks gorgeous..


Pete

Great looking car Jamie, Black looks sooo nice (when it's clean). ;D ;D Dave

Well done Jamie, great to see all your hard work 7 perseverance has paid off.

Dean.

Well done Jamie, I know what it's like to work on a project for 5 yrs then finally get to the pointy end of the build. Hopefully I'm not far behind you and soon get to enjoy the fruits of my labour. Like you I'm sorting out the little niggly things that are not quite right. Your car is a credit to you and I hope it brings many years of enjoyment. Cheers, Jack

Thanks Stash,FantaC,Pete,Dave,Dean and Jack.Really appreciate all of your comments.Yes Pete,some chrome trims would be nice.I am actually looking into some white wall cross plys also or even getting white walls done on these tyres as it still looks a little bland in the wheel department.I put the Tom Tom in the car and took it for a drive tonight and I was spot on.If you really push it it will get to 92kph but doesn't feel nice (lots of revs),not maxed out but just not nice.Will change the centre in the next couple of days and see how we go.I am very happy with how smooth it is on the road and how tight the steering is.Jamie.

red rims, white walls and flippers............ you know you want to!   ;D

Dunno about red rims but white flippers would set it off.

i reckon red rims would look the part, and whitewalls.

Good one Jamie you beat us all 8), I still reckon she looks better than brand new, enjoy your cruising.
               Pedro

Congratulations Jamie.  It looks really nice and you should be rightly proud of your efforts.
 When you have finished a restro all the memories of the hard work seems to vanish when you start driving the car.
 Enjoy using the car.

Keith 

Well done Jamie looks good 8)

Scott

Just in time for the Spring weather. Looks fantastic.  A lot of time, skun knuckles and swearing to get there, I am sure but add me to the list of jealous members who wish that theirs was even as half as good.  Enjoy it.

Jase

Whitewalls would set it off Jamie...just can't picture what it would look like with Kathi's suggestion :P :-*.
Just do some research on the cross plies....have heard they are not real flash handling wise.

Dean.

I think this is what Kathi means


(http://s16.postimage.org/ygbqi5tox/Nos_FEratuside.jpg) ($2)


Cheers Stewy   8)

(hope you dont mind Kathi)

Thanks all and thanks Stewy.I actually stole some pictures of Kathis' FE off the forum about 5 years ago which gave me the inspiration to get on with Black FC but thankyou anyway and now everyone else can see what we're talking about  ;) .It's a very cool looking car.  8)

no problems at Stewy and thanks Jamie

I must that when I changed to this look some 14 years ago, IMHO, it made all the difference with my car - I loved my car before but when these went on I was absolutely stoked..........

Whatever you decide to do Jamie I know you will think your sh!t doesn't stink every time you look at it and your face will hurt as much as mine does from grinning non-stop

you too will come to love overcast or wet days and dusk - cos that's when they really look good!

aaaah black cars gotta love 'em and gotta love cleaning 'em.............constantly!  ;D

Just looked back through your build Jamie,

Great work you have done there.

from rusty to gem.

Cheers

Ed

Thanks Ed although i guess most rebuilds are like that.I'll take the praise though... ;) Spent last Saturday putting the 3.55 diff centre in and changing the rear uni and I'll admit I'm a little out of touch (has been about 7 years since I've had to replace a uni) but eventually remembered some of the tricks.Have now got a few issues to attend to.Went for a cruise to the local supermarket to get some stuff for tea and thought "before I lock it,I better just make sure it still unlocks with the key"...which it did.Went in got the food,came out,wouldn't unlock!!!I'm guessing because there was some extra pressure applied somewhere that wasn't there when I tried the lock with the door open.Anyway,luckily the passenger side unlocked so just slid across that big bench seat and we're back in business!!!That's the first thing.Secondly,nice day on Monday and was super excited to take the FC for it's first trip to work.Started perfectly,ran ok for the first couple minutes then I heard a squealing noise coming from the dizzy then she started running real rough then eventually died.Starts and idles for a bit but won't rev,sounds like it's choking itself.Looked in the dizzy and there is a brown dust which is either a rust dust or fibre off the points block (no marks whatsoever in the cap from anything scraping or grinding).It looks like the mechanical advance may be jammed up or is pulling up under revs but as yet I have not had time to check it out.Had to get the missus to tow me home which was reasonably disappointing on it first trip to work and especially as it ran all weekend without a hitch.I am now wondering wether I have been chasing this fault since the engine went in and may have also been giving me the trouble with the twins??I'll let you know what I find as it may be usefull information to others.Cheers,Jamie.

Hope you get it sorted Jamie, probably be some little thing  ;)

Dean.

Hi all,now I need some help!!!Finally got to look at the FC today,pulled out the dizzy to find that the points fibre block was worn off to the point of very little to no points operation which is my fault as I cleaned it all out nicely before reassemble but didn't lube up the cam on the dizzy shaft.The mechanical advance was also noisy when you spin it so I changed the whole dizzy over for one that came out of my double green FC.Started it up and idled real smooth but still will not rev.Checked the timing...perfect....Thought,it must still be a carby issue.Changed the carby back over to a cleaned and re-kitted one that was also the original carby off the car.Started it up,nice idle and revved albeit not real clean.Took it for a quick drive down the road and was going ok at about 90kph then suddenly lost all power and started "popping" out the exhaust as it was decelerating.Pulled over and died.Restarts no problem but back to same problem of will not rev.Was just about to call the missus and thought I'll just try pulling the choke all the way out and try starting.Started,ran, took off and got all the way home no probs but obviously revving it's tits off because choke is out.I don't get it.Have I got two carbies with problems or am I looking at something else.Never had this trouble before with my Holden sixes so now I'm a bit lost.Any ideas????Any help greatly appreciated. ??? ??? ???

What Coil are you running i had similar issues a few weeks ago but i was running aftermarket electronic ign

maybe check your coil is not breaking down under load and check its just a plain jane 12V coil.

see if the Vaccum line to the advance isnt blocked or something silly. ???

good luck

pete

Sounds to me like you may have some crap or water in your fuel Jamie, I've had a similar problem in the past every time you clean the carb and get it running right it just sucks up some more shit, have you cleaned the tank since the rebuild are you running a filter in the fuel line.
              Pedro

Pedro could be right Jamie, I have also had big issues with the petrol tank in the Ambo and my Wagon, despite spending a fair amount of time making sure both tanks were clean before installing them

We found that the pick up line inside the tank must have been partially blocked, car would go along ok but when you needed extra grunt it would fizzle out, stop by the side of the road, wait a while, start of again, then it would play up and same again

Might be worth getting someone to have a listen at the filler while you blow some air down the line, we did this and it felt like the air wasn't getting through, then whooska, sounded like a blockage had cleared itself

Big Gary
 

I once had a very unusual fuel blockage in an FB.
Only when cold, the motor would run for 1 or 2 miles then stop. No fuel in carby.
If I filled the carby bowl with petrol, the motor would run well until I stopped overnight, then the same problem.
I couldn't fault anything, and this went on for weeks, making for one very pissed-off Gaz.
Then once, while pulling the inlet pipe off the pump, I saw what looked like a small ball bearing in the fitting on the flexible hose.
It turned out to be a little silver-grey lizard about 3" long!!! No bullshit!!!
When the pump had to work hard, he would get sucked up into the flex hose, and his nose would block off the angled brass fitting.
The carby would then run dry.
If the carby was full, the required flow was low enough that he would not get sucked up.
THIS IS A TRUE STORY.

Anyhow, the moral of the story is that there may be a blockage in your pickup or fuel pipe.
(Thanks to Big Gary for reminding me of that one.)

Cheers,
Ol'Gaz.

;D

Must be something to do with FB/EK's, one of the problems i was refering to was with the EK we had a few years ago, when i got it on the road it would run fine until you gave it a bit and then it would just die, replaced carby, filter, fuel pump blew out the lines nothing fixed it and it drove me nuts trying to figure it out, turned out to be a tiny dead beetle stuck in the brass fitting where the fuel line attached to the tank,.
                           Pedro

Hi all,I really appreciate all your input and your ideas got me thinking about what it could be and don't I feel like a dumbass!!!Originally I had a red motor fuel pump on the grey which had the Brass filter in it but it was leaking and playing up so I changed it for a donated blue motor one which I don't think have the filter in it.Anyway,long story short I pulled the carby apart tonight and tipped the fuel out on a white cloth and here it is...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_001328A.jpg)
Completely choked with sh*t!!Mostly big pieces of silicon which must have come from the pump as there is none on or in anything before it.So I cleaned it all out,reassembled it,installed an in-line filter...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_001329A.jpg)
Took it for a cruise and all sorted.Also found out why they made finned rocker covers....
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_001324A.jpg)
 :D
So thankyou all for your input,very simple problem overlooked.Also fixed the door locks tonight and after struggling to remove the door trim on drivers door so I could spray some CRC in there,found out that if you unscrew the knob and squirt the CRC down the hole in the direction of the mechanism it will have the same effect.Thanks again.Jamie.

I don't know if anyone else has tried but instead of crc on things in the car like key barrels window winders I use lynx graphite deodorant goes on dry and works awesome I did the squeaky door hinges at home and the dead lock was sticky when I try to pull the door shut .
May smell for ten minutes but its dry.
I read the holden manual says use graphite powder but where do you get that from ?
IM sure there probably anything in the deodorant to resemble the powder.but it works awesome.


Pete

Hoon

Graphite powder is available at bike shops and locksmiths sometimes in squeeze bottles.

Cheers

Craig D

Thanks Pete and Graig,good info...

Well it was cool this morning in the Barossa at 10 past seven when I cruised into work in the FC,but it was 22 degrees when I cruised home,window down... Cowl vent open...arm out on the door...the smell of warm vinyl,fresh paint and apparently odourless fish oil...gentle tap of rockers just to keep me entertained... a few thumbs up and waves from passers by....The Black FC ran like clockwork to and from work today and I thought to myself "it has only taken this one day and a twenty minute drive to and from work to make the whole last 5 years worth it"...

Hopefully many more days like today... 8)

Jamie

Double thumbs up all round by the sound of it. ;) ;)

Enjoy!!

Craig D

You'd be as happy as a little boy with two d*cks  ;D ;D ;D ;D
Well done, you have already enjoyed the journey, now enjoy the ride.



regards


Weddo

Congrats Jamie,

all the effort was worthwhile, now just enjoy

Gary

Jamie, an ambition many of us want to see.

As per Craig, have ha a bottle of graphite powder in my shed for years, lasts forever and great for all locks .

Seeing that it's behaving itself now, thought it was time it graduated to Members Cars...
Well done on your project!! It is a credit to your perseverance and the rewards will just continue on.

Cheers
JB

Congratulations on a job exceptionally well done, Jamie!

Enjoy... you've definitely earnt it  :)

Great Job Jamie. One of my favourite builds. Congratulations.

Regards

Wayne b

Well here we are...Members cars.A little bitter sweet really.Sure it's great to have the Black FC finished but all the fun involved with building the car was...well..building the car.Posting all the latest updates and all the progress shots and having members comments was awesome.Unfortunately now we have reached the point where we move to the archives but I guess that had to happen eventually.Anyway,I'll get over it.Once again,thanks to all who gave me the inspiration to persist with my build and keep me motivated to "continue" which fulfilled the title of the thread.Picked up my new plates today.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_001339A.jpg)
Cheers,Jamie.

But that's where you are wrong mate... Now we want to see updates of you driving the wheels off it!!! Shows etc half the fun is the build, the other half is playing!!

Cheers,
JB

Or Jamie....you could start another one  :o.

Dean.

Well after two weeks of driving the Black FC to work I've decided there is only one big problem .....having to wait 8 bloody hours till I get to drive it home again!!!Played around with the timing a bit and have now got it running real sweet.I think it's time to have another go with the twins before the Palmer Hot Rod party on Sunday.I'm confident I can swap it all back if need be.Jamie.

Can see the grin from here mate!  ;D ;D

Hi Jamie

Congrat's on a job well done. I am sure I will see the old girl in the flesh some time soon.

Cheers Jim

Thanks Jim,got the FC all cleaned up and took for a trip to the Palmer Hot Rod show yesterday.Got there pretty late due to commitments in the morning and missed a lot of the show and some real nice cars.Still some cars there when I got there and hope to be there a lot earlier next year.
 (http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_001364.jpg)
Cheers,Jamie.

Jamie,

Congratulations!  You've had your "Ta-Dumm!" moment, and I bet you're loving it.

(and you've even been promoted to Members' FEs and FCs)

Rob

hahaha,yes thanks Rob.Actually every time I drive it it feels like I'm having that "Ta-Dumm" moment.I guess it will wear off eventually.I'm surprised you remembered that comment. :D

A couple pics from the recent "Cruise for a cause" here in the Barossa.112 k's, ran like a charm.Now needs a serious wash and polish,looks like it's been painted in metallic!!
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/558926_221061924694070_2025351750_n_zps09def0ab.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/BlackFCCruise_zpsfc91156e.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FCcruise2_zps4dddcfdf.png)
Cheers,Jamie.

Lookin real sweet Jamie,
When they are put back together with all the love and attention that you have put in, you deserve to reap the rewards  :)

Cheers Stewy   8)

Great to see you out and about enjoying your hard work mate!  ;D

A few from the 2013 Cruise On in Tanunda a couple weeks ago...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Photo8_zpsbf9c7785.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_20130119_037a_zps81ff064a.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_20130119_023a_zps55e7762b.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_20130118_009a_zpsddf9aba2.jpg)
Got the twins back on and using one different rebuilt carby seems I've almost fixed the original problems I was having and looks real cool again also.Got my Blue dots working as well.Chhers,Jamie.

Cool . Nice engine bay.
Nick

Looks great

Deano.

My Atlas flappers arrived during the week so I got them fitted up by the local tyre place who gave them back to me with a half inch gap in some spots on all of them and also threw away my vintage style knurled steel valve caps and put plastic ones on!When I got home I read the instructions,let the tyres down to 18 PSI then gently tapped them around with a rubber mallet and a cloth and got them almost perfect.I then took the car for a drive and when I got home I noticed that most of them are almost back to a quarter inch gap.Is there any way of keeping them tight against the tyre or is this a fairly normal scenario?They look great from a distance.All cleaned up and ready for GM day tomorrow.Cheers,Jamie.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FCGMday1_zpsd119515d.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FCGMday3_zpsae015130.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/FCenginebay_zpsa2a77180.jpg)

Hi Mate

jack one corner up at a time take the valve out use the palm of your hand to smack it into the rim it goes in easy.

Use AJAX spray and white to get them ultru clean.
Mine have the slightest tinge of yellow on the edge at the moment must be the material?


Looks ultra clean you should be proud..

Pete

 Hey Jamie really depends if the tyre shop used any soap or grease when fitting, as this will cause them to slip out under pressure, they must be fitted dry. Also standard FE-EK rims as you know dont have a safety bead this makes them easy to fit yourself. With my HT HG rims i did pretty much like you using a mallet, and by hand like Pete said, the more you get them to fit under the edge of the rim the tighter they sit against the tyre wall. They are'nt called flappers for nothing though they can almost be impossible to get right ;D.
cheers
Scott

Jamie

Your finished product looks fantastic.

Hope you sort through the issues with the flappers as they make the car look pretty sharp.

All the best

Craig D

Thanks all for the comments.I did try Pete's method by taking the valve out,letting them right down then tapping them into place with the palm of my hand and got them all nice again but I think Scott has the answer.I told the tyre place not to use soap when fitting them (I also left the instructions with them) and they didn't use any extra soap but they didn't clean off the stuff that was already on them so I reckon that's why they keep slipping.Anyway,they still look good and I didn't hear any bad comments on the day,they look good while driving.Here's a couple more from the day....
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_20130407_002a_zps26c7e907.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_20130407_021a_zps133a5dca.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_20130407_023a_zps67ed1be5.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_20130407_026a_zps63a3a8cc.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_20130407_015a_zps646bd222.jpg)

Hi all,still alive.Just thought I'd post a couple pics from some of the recent events the FC has been involved in....
Here's my two greatest supporters all ready for the GM owners club of the Barossa Valley show and shine a few weeks ago...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_20131103_0051_zps72551679.jpg) ($2)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_20131103_0091_zpsbacb9ba4.jpg) ($2)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_20131103_0101_zpsa264d20d.jpg) ($2)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_20131103_0151_zps97828f4f.jpg) ($2)

Then here they are again all strapped in for this years Cruise for a cause last weekend..

(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_20131124_0011_zps66ff247f.jpg) ($2)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_20131123_0101_zpsf02e8af3.jpg) ($2)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_20131124_0031_zpse6f60159.jpg) ($2)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/WP_20131124_0051_zpsc3f6c643.jpg) ($2)
Hope you are all well,Cheers,Jamie.

Looks great Jamie - so glad you are finally reaping the rewards of all your work  :)

 Score on the entrant number ;D well done.
cheers
Scott

Good stuff Jamie, glad to see the family enjoying the car as much as you are.

Yours is the coolest car there  8) 8) 8)

Thats fantastic!! Awsome jobe the paint work

Hi Jamie

Just read your whole thread start to finish.

Very inspirational......... just what I need to keep me going on my EIGHT year build.  :D

Nice work!

I still enjoy seeing my thread pop up in the "unread posts since last visit" and I still appreciate the comments guys.Cheers.Jamie.

Just trying out the tapatalk on my windows phone.See how this goes.Here's a couple pics from a wedding my two cars were in a couple weeks ago.(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/03/18/aqyjeme4)



Sent from my C625b using Tapatalk

Just trying out the tapatalk on my windows phone.See how this goes.Here's a couple pics from a wedding my two cars were in a couple weeks ago.

Sent from my C625b using Tapatalk

Well that worked but I sent it twice and without the second picture.Here it is....hopefully...(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/03/18/upytyru5)



Sent from my C625b using Tapatalk

It's great to see that you are enjoying the car with the family mate. If you start another project on another forum, pls let me know so I can follow.

Cheers
Deano.

Hi all, been a while since last post but still getting out and about. Here's some pictures from a couple weeks ago when we entered the FC in the Bay to Birdwood classic. Long day but the Black FC ran like a charm for the whole 200 kms and we all had a great time. Cheers, Jamie.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC_09181_zpswzudtc7f.jpg) ($2)
All cleaned up ready to go....5.45AM...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC_09191_zpsm6avd6tj.jpg) ($2)
Once again, my two biggest fans...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC_09201_zpsse22hc2f.jpg) ($2)
Made it to the start at the Bay (Glenelg)...
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC_09251_zpsjaj6k0zk.jpg) ($2)
Good turn up. 1750 vehicles and awesome weather.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC_09291_zpskdbcg2ox.jpg) ($2)
At the finish, Birdwood Museum.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/DSC_09511_zpskej0ifn0.jpg) ($2)

Well done Jamie, I saw you drive past us in the museum grounds, just ran out of time to catch up with you. We were next to Kingsleys FC with our FC sedan and my FE wagon. It was great weather and we had a great day without any dramas.
Very stop start up grand junction road with quite a few of the pommie cars boiling and the left hand drive yank tank with the broken axle.

Cheers Stewy   8)

Your FC looks terrific Jamie.
1750 vehicles is a huge turnout.