FE-FC Holden Discussion Forum

Well I've been a member of the site some time now using people's stories and feedback to help get me underway in the progress of my latest project.

I thought it was time I started my own post of the progress (or lack there of), which has been slowly building since I first started my journey in September 2008.

The car was acquired in June 2008, after I was told about it being stored in a shed for the last 28 years untouched.  Not knowing what to expect I ventured off on the 3 1/2 hour journey to look at the car with no real intension to buy. (Well that's what I convinced the minister for war anyhow).  I distinctly remember using the phrase "I'll never build another car again" and "Next time I'll buy one already done".  The FC was dragged out of the barn after all these years as two of the tyres were flat and the brakes and engine had ceased.  A quick glance over proved promising.  The rats had stayed clear and the interior was in remarkable condition.  Very little rust and seemed to take hold (Considering) and apart from missing a couple of chrome strips seemed straight and in good condition.  The car was originally Olinda Green all over and at some point the black was added to the car.

A price was agreed upon and it was now time to go home and face the music.  To my surprise the news was welcomed........... ???
Was this an attempt at that reverse psychology my father had warned me about many years ago..........
There was a catch.  As I did the hr previously, this car was to be hers and she got to choose the colour etc.  To be fair we discussed this scenario previously but I had forgotten, so I figured she must have as well. 

All the finalised details are a long way off yet as I have to get it stripped completely first. Plans at this stage are a V6 conversion, but leave it looking stock, including interior with a brighter two tone coat.  I should have read the contract fine print though, as I have since found out Lisa has the right to change her mind without notice and as many times as she sees fit.   ;D. On top of that shes been pregnant so theres no way i starting an argument no rational person could win. hehe

Oh well.  I don’t drink, don’t smoke and are not allowed to associate with bad women any more so I need something to keep me busy.


Progress may be slow so dont expect miracles, but as this eventuate Ill keep all up todate. 

(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/IMG_0286.jpg)
The FC on the day I first viewed it.

(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/IMG_2505.jpg)
After getting it home and washing 28 years of dirt and dust away.

(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/102_6660.jpg)
The FC with the hood and front guards removed.  Lots of ceased bolts needed to be cut off to get to this stage.  The VS V6 donor car in the background.  One day people will look at this photo and ask "what a shame to cut up an old classic"

(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/IMG_0192.jpg)
Armed with a wire wheel the slow process of the paint removal has begun.

(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/IMG_6312.jpg)
The dash and interior all removed.  Not easy for a 6ft 5inch gut to get behind that dash to remove everything.

(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/IMG_6323.jpg)
Starting to look like a project now.  Hanging panels and interior removed.

(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/102_6668.jpg)
The engine for the transplant and maybe the auto tans as well.  See what I can pick up in my travels.

(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/102_6664.jpg)
Doors seem to be in quite good condition.  Never can tell though until all the paint is removed. :-\

(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/IMG_6318.jpg)
The standard fuel tank removed and getting ready for the tank from the VS Commodore

(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/IMG_0351.jpg)
After a week or so working on the panels with a wire brush, a small amount of rust was found.  Quite please with the outcome.

Thanks for looking.  More pics can be found in the link below................ ;D

http://gallery.oldholden.com/hrpremier/

Jase

4869

Looks like you are of to a fling start. You also seem to have got a very good car, condition wise - did you beat out the drivers wing yourself?

Keep the updates coming and watch out for the famous Henchmen who sometimes come and visit and "encourage" harder work!!  ;)


 8)

Hey Jason

Looks like you've got a good starter there and that you've been pretty busy. I don't think the henchmen need to be summonsed quite yet - and - by the sounds of it, you have your own task master anyway!  Just always remember, it is far better to have the wife/girlfriend making a "list" that has progress on the car at the top rather than at the bottom of it.  ;) :D

Kathi 

Nice car to come across, I see why you could not resist.
Good luck with the build up.
Regards
Alex

Just to make clear in regards to the footnote with the interior photo of the dash.....  I am a 6ft 5in guy, I do not have aft 5in gut. lol

Typo.

Just wanted to clarify that.

Hi Forum.

Its been a while since my last update but progress has been continuing, albiet slow.  Footy Grand Final in a weeks
time (Real Football - AFL, not that League shit they play up here in QLD and don't even get me started on soccer!!)
so hopefully October onwards will free up Saturday's, and at least two nights a week.

Here are some update pics to show what has been happening for the last couple of months.

(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/IMG_0367.jpg?t=1252586767)
The front guards and hood in primer to help prevent surface rust from making a hinderance of itself.
With the humidity up here in Cairns any exposed panels get a fine film sitting on them in a couple of days.
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(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/IMG_0573.jpg?t=1252586946)
The Fuel Tank Removed and floor cut ready for tank support straps to be located and fitted.
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(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/IMG_1108.jpg)
Straps installed as I was going to go with a setup similar to sgo's 59V6.  New change of plans.  Weld VS Floor into Boot to keep
VS fuel tank underneath the vehicle.
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(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/IMG_1322.jpg?t=1252587341)
The VS Commodore Sedan Boot Floor Removed.  Next to clean it up ready to weld into FC.
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Part II of Update ........
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(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/IMG_0788.jpg)
The VS V6 Brake Booster fitted onto the firewall.
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(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/IMG_1112.jpg?t=1252587648)
My son Brock, thrying to "help" after giving the FC another good hose, clean out.  Have also installed the
VS Steering Column into place.
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(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/IMG_1214.jpg)
Have also aquired a HR Disc Brake Front End.  Now I can dummy fit the engine into place in the engine bay
once a few more pieces of the puzzle fall into place.
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(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/IMG_1391.jpg?t=1252587940)
Last weekend cut the floor of the VS Sedan out to be welded into the FC Sedan.  This will give me the hand
brake placement, trans tunnel to suit the M30 automatic gearbox, with mountings in place for front seats, exhaust, and gearbox supports.
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(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/IMG_1427.jpg?t=1252588359)
Front End of the FC removed ....... 
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(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/IMG_1437.jpg?t=1252588489)
......... And a failed attemp to remove the Y frame.  Damn rusted in bolts.  Nothing a cutting disc and a sledge hammer
with a punch wont eventually overcome.---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/IMG_0373.jpg?t=1252588670)
Cleaned up ID Plate on firewall with details of vehicle.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Well thanks for looking.  Thats the latest for now.  As I said earlier hopefully a little more progerss will happen over
the next few months as I will hopefully have more free time.Thanks to the likes of FCVanV6, SGO and Pedro for the inspiration and ideas to keep me inspired.

I promise the next update wont be so far away as the last.

hrpremier

(Jase)
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Great progress there Jase!  ;D

Looking good Jase, seeing the floor sitting there like that brings back some memories(not all good).
                        Pedro

Ah yep... I remember that bit LOL...

You will have fun amongst the swearing!!!

JB

(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/IMG_1471.jpg?t=1252847498)
The Floor Pan of the FC Sedan came out without any real problems.

Sorry, but couldn't resist hi-jacking this thread-
looking at that photo, it seems a shame we can't get these pan assemblies reproduced by an enterprising someone (hello Rares, et. al.). If they were to give it a go, and the result was a close repro, the queue would form behind me ;D
I know, I know..., a man can dream can't he?

Ouch!   :o  That had to hurt!  Hope Brock feels better soon and his head doesn't hurt for too long!

In relation to your steering wheel/seat placement problem - sorry can't help except to say just pretend you're driving an LC Torana!  ;)

Hang on - just had an idea that might help you out.  How about putting an FC floor and bench seat in it?  ;D

Hey mate,

You have just found a problem that cant be overcome. the steering wheel is offcentre to the seat but when you are sitting in the seat get an unobscured view of the instruments. Not everything about the conversion is perfect.  :)

To tell the truth the driving position is only wierd for the initial bit and you get used to it quite quickly. Just ask Glenn who has now got the Van.

I found that when I put the VT floor in the ute that it was a little more pronounced, but still acceptable. I believe that the Torana had one like it from the factory as well, someone correct me if i am wrong.

You cant push the column over any further as there won't be room for your booster... If you push the instruments over they will look wrong.. i.e not symmetrical with the dash. So the best you can do is what is there already and accept the angle and the position of the wheel.

Hope you son is ok.

Jason.

(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y184/Fevanv6/story%20to%20tell/P4190007.jpg)(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y184/Fevanv6/story%20to%20tell/P5300002.jpg)

(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y184/Fevanv6/story%20to%20tell/P5300003.jpg)

You may be able to move the seat over an inch or two - won't fix the problem bit it might lessen it a bit. There would surely be at least an inch there....

x2  ;)

I hadn't even considered it as a problem Jase as I've had the same thing happen when fitting bucket seats even with a standard floor pan, with a bench seat you can position yourself where you want with a bucket you sit where it fits, hope brock is alright that's a decent wack to the head :o.
                                          Pedro

Well I have been guilty of dropping the ball a bit over the last few weeks and got very little done on the car.  With the V8's on at Phillip Island last weekend , the Gold Coast A1 event prior, Phillip Island MotoGP and starting off the motorsport marathon, Bathurst it seems I have spent more time in front of the idiot box rather than in the shed.

It has not been a total loss though.  Managed to clean up the hr front end and give it a lick of the black stuff, and aquired a set of HQ rotors and Girlock Calipers.  Purchased an outrigger for the conversion, along with a FEK4A : HR Front End Mounting Kit RUBBER (FE-EK With HR X-Member) from rare spares, so the process of putting the front back in is getting closer.  More Pics to follow soon.

(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/IMG_8627.jpg?t=1257854241)
HR Front End Compnents.  Some cleaned up ready for refitment.

(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/IMG_8648.jpg)
HR Front End with HQ Rotors and HQ Girlock Calipers.  Also the Outrigger off of a EJ-EH.  getting closer to putting it back together.

(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/FEK4A.jpg)
The X Memeber Rubber Kit on Order for the HR Front End.

(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/IMG_8583.jpg)
For those who saw the previous effort it has happened again, the same eye would you believe.  This time he ran towards me flat out playing chasey, in the interest of my crown jewels I stepped aside when I realised he was not going to stop and crashed into a bedside table.  Poor little bugger. 

Glad to see you making progress on the sedan. You know you could always take the tv out to the shed to watch the motorsport.  ;D

Give Brock hugs from Uncle Paul.

Cheers
Paul

http://gallery.oldholden.com/hr-hearse/

Well progress has still been that, albeit slow.  Managed to put the HQ discs and rotors onto the hr x-member and put it all back together.  Also cut the hr outrigger off and getting ready to weld the replacement FC one back on.  Just need to make sure it is central and sqaure.
Money of late has been spent on a couple of new toys.   


Got myself a welder and sanding box from a neighbour of a mate.
  (http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/IMG_8706.jpg?t=1258795199)

Don't know how to weld, but the best way to learn is to jump in and have a go.  Going to go gasless at this stage and get the knack of what I am doing and maybe move to gas later on.  ???

Did a bit of filling with the welder today on a old bit of steel plate which I cut with a 1mm cutting disc.  To fill the slot I used a 2.5mm Grinding disc to make a "V" either side of the cut and filled. Was not a pretty weld, but was solid. Luckily I have a grinder and managed to tidy it up.  After grinding the dags and build up back flush with the original metal I have probably a dozen pin holes which I was going to go back and try and fill also.  One of the guys at work said its not worth doing.  I would have thought any hole as such would cause problems, ie waekness, water sitting etc. What is the concensous on this with other members.

(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/IMG_8791.jpg?t=1258795708)

Also the viewing plastic in the lid of this Sandblasting box is looking raggered.  Looks like a contact over the plastic top and bottom to protect the plastic itselfwhich is in good clear condition.  Is this contact something that can be replaced like a tear off on a dirt bike helmet or do I need to replace the whole Plastic insert?  

As per usual more updates in coming weeks.   Stay tuned.
Young fellas head has repaired and hes ready for his next adventure............. ;D

Jase

http://gallery.oldholden.com/hrpremier/

I would say the contact is supposed to be removed before you start. The perspex will be a lot more resistant to the grit than the soft plastic contact.

Ken

I bought one of those blast cabinets almost new, it came with replacement plastics to stick on once the other is worn. Not unlike overhead projector sheets  ???

Yep, you can definately buy the protective film for those blast cabinets. I wouldn't recommend using it without the film in place.

Also regarding the mig, I personally found it much easier to weld with gas than without. If you can borrow a bottle to try it out, it'd be worth giving it a go for comparisons sake. Looks like you've bought a nice unit!

Merry Christmas   :D


Have been a busy boy over the christmas break.  Managed to get hold of a engine crane for a few days, and my plan was to dummy fit in the engine into the engine bay.  I made up some brackets using 5mm glav steel to mount the engine onto using dimensions from the donor car. RH mount 39.95 degrees and LH Mount @ 35 degrees. Also got the engine at a 4.35 degree slant backwards as the genuine example measures. Also took the sump off as everyone I have researched has trouble with the clearance to the HR X Member, to assisit in the fitting of the engine. ;)

(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/LHEngineMount.jpg?)

(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/IMG_0132.jpg?t=1262092776)

(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/IMG_0152copy.jpg)

(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/IMG_0141.jpg)
 
Tonight I placed the mounts into position and put the engine onto them and all fits in the engine bay nicely.  A little to nicely.???  At the current engine height placement I have approx 30mm clearance on the top to the inside of the hood and 200mm from the bottom of the block to the HR X member.  I measured the sump at its deepest point and it measures at 168mm.  With this in mind in theory I shoud have 32mm clearence at the end of the day between bottom of sump and X member.  Have talked myself into lowering the engine another 15mm (thinking the lower the better) so that should still leave 17mm before the sump fowls the HR X Member.  The only future problem I can think of is it may be difficult to get to the sump plug to drain the oil.  I guess this can be overcome by re-tapping a thread at a more accessable point. Am I completely wrong in my thinking, :( and have I not measured things correctly. I must be wrong :-[,  as this seems to be a concern for all other V6 conversions I have seen.  From all accounts other trailblazers before me have made a sump of their own with the deep dish at the rear or bought a purpose built manufactured one done from the likes of CRS.  If buying one of theses do they use the same genuine O ring style gasket as genuine sumps door do they have their own. (Just thinking for future parts availability.)

The other problem is the oil filter fits between the Block and the Y frame but I will not be able to remove filter once unscrewed when changing due to the Y frame not allowing clearance.  is there a 90 degree adaptor which can be used to bring the oil filter towards the radiator? ???

I know its a lot to ask but hey, the forum has not let me down in the past so any assistance is welcomed.

Jase

http://gallery.oldholden.com/hrpremier/

Sump gasket will stay the same, they usually just cut the bottom off and spin it around and weld back on or create one from scratch using the base (block side ) of the original sump.

Lets just say last night was the end to a shit day.


I think I answered my own question.  I put the sump on the V6 engine again last night and welded the U Bracket onto my angled plate and the engine went in, but I miscalculated the amount to cut off the right had bracket and the engine now sits at a lean of 4 degrees from left to right so its not true and square.

(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/Doh.jpg?t=1262210705)

Then I went to put the transmission onto the back of the engine.  After much swearing, abuse and contemplating I decided it was not going to happen the way I wanted. Came to the conclision the engine and gearbox will have to go in as one piece so out came the engine again and I spent the couple of hours wrestling with the auto trans trying to square the thing onto the block. Not an easy feat when the engine is balancing on the deep section of the sump and rocking around as you try to guide and wriggle the trans into place.  Had to take the torque convertor off the flywheel place it in the bell housing and the put into place.  Much easier this way.  Just took me to stand back and reasses the situation to come up with the solution. About 12.45am this morning I called it quits with the engine and trans married to each other so I hypothetically kicked the dog and went to bed.

The sump had approx 8 - 10mm clearence to the HR X Member but I believe at the current placement the bell housing was going to interfere with the firewall and Im not keen on the idea of modifying the firewall to much. I've come to the conclusion thats why the engine will need to be dropped lower again in the engine bay, and now I need to redesign my engine mounts.

Oh well, bitching on the forum may vent some frustration but does not get any work done.  Back to the drawing board as they say.

Jase

http://gallery.oldholden.com/hrpremier/

Well i was wondering how people had gone with the sump issue.
My engineer has allowed me to notch the crossmember alot so that helps too. I want to use standard trans tunnel if possible so need the engine real low.

On fitting trans to engine: should always have torque conv in trans first then mount to eng. screw seal otherwise.

go the v6!

Well its been a long time since i posted any update on here.

Thats because there has not been a great deal to post about of late. 

The bride has gone back to chefing which means she now works weekends and has Monday Tuesdays off and as a result I am left to babysit the rugrats, (although I dont think you can call it babysitting if they're your own ..................... thats just called parenting)

On top of that I have been putting it back together so it is mobile again as a move interstate is on the cards before the year is out.

I have however stripped with a wirewheel the inner and outer of the bootlid and primed (due to the humidity if you leave it any more than two days brown surface rust appears on my nice shiney silver panels.

(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/IMG_9796.jpg)

(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/IMG_0042.jpg)

(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/IMG_0044.jpg)

(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/IMG_0046.jpg)

(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/IMG_0070.jpg)

Im not to keen on stripping anymore panels before we decide if/when we shift, but Im sure as I cant just leave it, it will get the better of me and the doors will be next.

All panels primed will be stripped back again at time of repair.  At this stage its just nice to know what i am dealing with regarding rust etc.
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/IMG_0556.jpg)

Made this bracket for the VS wiper motor to mount onto in the original location. 
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/IMG_9842.jpg)

On top of that I have stripped the diff from the VS V6 and played with ideas on how to install it. After looking at Injected V8 FC's thread I think I may finalise on that concept.  May look into flaring the rear guards and not have to alter the VS diff at all.  If anyone on here can tell me if it can't be done that may save me some dramas.
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/IMG_0151.jpg)

Pulled the diff apart and looked at getting it shortened, but after a lot of questions and research it turns out I can't find anyone around town willing to give it a go.  It seems my best option is to transit the diff to Brisbane some 2000+ kms away and get someone there to do it and then pay to bring it all the way back.  I even contemplated on doing it myself (ie: just have a go but quickly realised I dont have the tools and knowledge to attempt and would only fail dismaly). Put it back together again and worry about that later if at all (see above)

After I placed the diff under the car I quickly realised the lower control arms in their original brackets lined up the with FC Chassis quite nicely so I made some more brackets and welded them ont  my project.  Once Im back down South I will pull it out again and help to get it shortened will not be anywhere near as far away. Living in the tropics is great but we really are a long way from anywhere. I know its not as bad as the west contingent but I am sure Queensland number plates should read " The Backwards State" not " The Sunshine State" :o  
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/IMG_05502.jpg)

I decided the existing brackets on the chassis for the front of the rear leaf springs needed to go, as this is where my new brackets for the lower control arms would be welded into place.  Great idea in theory but after spending a considerable time under the car over a period of time grinding away the existing bracket I soon realised what a prick of a job it was.  Cutting one part away from the chassis was ok but grinding the rest off.   :) - :-\ - >:(Limited space = limited movemnet = limited access.  I am just glad that job is behind me now as it would not be adviseable of me to let you know how i really felt about it as little eyes have access to theses pages. Cant wait to build a rotissary once I move.
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/IMG_0422.jpg)

I then sourced some 30mm round piping amd welded a solid plate to one end and then welded that to the chassis creating for transit purposes a solid shock absorber so to speak.  It has a number of holes on the bottom so I can lower it or raise it and see how the car sits . Again the VS commodore shockie brackets on the diff almost line up with the FC Chassis perfectly (I did say almost) :-\
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/IMG_0688.jpg)

After a couple of months with no diff the car is now mobile again meaning I can push it in and out of the shed, allowing me access to work and or look at other tasks.  It sounds lame and silly but it feels good just having it mobile again.

As you can see I have also removed the commodore from the shed allowing me plenty of room to work.  The car is now centred and it looks like I have a big shed again. Plus having a clean shed does not hurt for open inspections.  ;D[/size]
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/IMG_0538.jpg)

I will try not to leave it so long to post again but things went so slowly there for a while it feels like you really make little gain each time you work on it.

The whole concept of this has been to place as much of the donor car into place on the project so its less to shift home.
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/IMG_0584-1.jpg)

Jase

About time you posted some new photos up.
But it appears you havent done nothing since I was there  ;) ;D


"If/when" ??? Does that mean I have got the HR in my garage for a bit more time?
Cheers
Paul

Are you going to gusset the lower link brackets for strength?

Is that final pic with the comm diff fitted?  appears to be a good fit with minimal flaring required?

Jason (fevanv6) shortened his diff himself in FNQ, you may want to see his thread how he acheived it.  You need a mate with a lathe!

Cheers

Ed

Got a bite,  :P :D ;D

As for your HR in my shed, as I said to you sometime ago, there is room for it and with the $50 week rent I am happy for it to stay as long as required.   ::)

Keep an eye on the post, there will be a disc coming with the HD HR Nationals photos early next week. In the meantime you can look at the link below for photos.  ;)

Cheers
Paul

HR isn't a ute is it, I have a tailgate that I would like to sell...

JB

Sorry to steal your post Jason,

Jason's HR is a X2 Premier sedan, my HR's are a Premier sedan and a panelvan hearse.
I might be interested in a spare tailgate. Send me a PM with details.

Cheers
Paul

G'day Jase, dud time to have to move in the middle of your project, are they standard commodore wheels on the front? it's a bit hard to see in the pics, looks like there's plenty of clearance to the guards.
          Pedro

Pedro,
 Yes they are the standard 15in rims and tyres off the V6 Executive.  Shit Loads of room at overall, except minimal at the front of the wheel arch.  Will post a better picture tonight.  On saying that they are the commodore rims on the HQ Rotors " Dont want to start this argument again) but they will be changed down the track.  Need a set of those flash new waterjet cut adaptors you just aquired.

Plan on getting around this problem of lack of space on the front by low profile tyres  :P

Jase

Hi,

With the Torana front end there is alot of useful info on the FB/EK site.

The fitup is explained very well by Gaz (V8EK4us) so thanks to him for this reference.

Based on his write up it looks achievable.

http://www.fbekholden.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=24&t=7396&start=0

Cheers

Ed

why don't you try a diff from a vl ? it's a bit shorter and still a borg warner, same wheels will fit and may not have to flare anything

The Vl diff will still be too wide that's what I used and I had to cut 69mm out of it, I did what I had heard other people had done and used two short axles, unfortunately that meant the diff centre was slightly out of line with the gearbox and I won't know if it's going to be succesfull until I drive it.
                  Pedro

Nissan pintara and skyline are pretty close width wise but you have to change stud pattern and there hand brake set up is shithouse.

a year on?

So its been a while, in fact to long, but since coming back from the HD HR Nationals in June and a recent trip to Bendigo All Holden Day, Enthusiasm has crept back in and I've peeled the covers off the old girl and want to get back into it again.  Ive manufactured a rotisserie for the old girl to make it easy to work on and bring it up to a workable height.

Last night I got the car off the stands and onto the rotisserie but its not an easy to spin as I would like.  In fact every Demo Ive seen shows a one hand spin no dramas.  Im swinging off this thing like a man possesed and can only get it turned 90 degrees.

As from the photos you can see I have removed the front end leaving the firewall as the front of the car to use as a mounting point.  The back mounting arms are bolted to the rear bumper bar locating bolts.

There is plenty of rotating power in the bearings and housings.  I believe I need to find the centre of gravity for the car to allow it to spin and sit on the rotisserie without and drama.  To top heavy and it will want to sit upside down, but i seem to have the opposite problem.

What i'm hoping is someone on here has played with this problem before and can give me some sort of starting point or approx heights each end to work from.  The photos show there is plenty of adjustment in height to allow for me to try and find the cars Centre point of Gravity.

Look forward to more updates while the passion is still flowing through the veins.  Just need some more warmer weather to really get the project coming along again.

** Please look past all the clutter in the background. ;P

(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/IMG_8003.jpg) (http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/IMG_8008.jpg) (http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/IMG_8006.jpg)
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/IMG_8007.jpg) (http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/IMG_8005.jpg)

chop 200mm out of your arms off the body ans see how you go.

Yup, centre of gravity is roughly the Fuel cap height... I made the exact same rooky mistake with the ute.
Good luck
JB

The centre of gravity all depends on what is still left on the car and I see the diff is still in which makes a big difference.Here is some pics of mine which spins effortlessly.Looking at yours it seems you are pretty close but I think the diff is the difference.
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture709.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture738.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture701.jpg)
(http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa281/ttv6fc/Picture750.jpg)
Cheers,Jamie.

Jase, did you get the shots of mine? similar to Jamies, I also do'nt have trouble turning it through 360 deg.
Regards Jim

No not yet Jim.  All trial and error.  Absolute pain in @r$e adjusting it trying to get it right.  Need to invest in a ram to mount on the frames so it makes adjusting it easier.  Thanks for all the photos guys.  Im sure it will make it all easier once I study them more closely.  If all else fails I will take out the diff for now.

Jase

Sorry.  brain fade Jim.  Yes I did get them.  Found an old set of bonnet hinges, but then could not bring myself to cut them up so made some adaptor plates instead. Its all trial and error, and im a bit impatient and just want to see the thing spin freely.  Just need to step back, deep breathe and easy as she goes.  It will happen.

Took the diff out as suggested last Friday night.  Thanks guys

Its amazing the difference it makes with the diff out.  She spins quite freely now. Not perfect yet but at least I can spin it.

(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/IMG_8354_zpsd4bc402c.jpg), (http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/IMG_8358_zps470b788c.jpg)

Last weekend was spent basically cleaning up the shed and moving stuff around including the car so now im not tripping over stuff when i work on her.

I did find the motor and gearbox was in the way no matter where i put it so this week after work I have knocked p a frame for the combo so it is more easily moved.  Next priority get that floor welded into place and start making bits to fill in the gaps between.

Just need a weekend without kids birthday parties and the like to interrupt my enthusiasm, plus Grand Final, Moto GP, Bathurst, Gold Coast V8's.  Hows a bloke supposed to get anything done.

Had an arrival in the mail today.

These books came highly recommended by JB, even though it was a couple of years ago when we both resided in Cairns. 

Have not had a chance to read them from cover to cover yet, but look forward to doing so and applying any applicable principles to my own build.

Ordered through the buildbookusa website, and arrived here in Australia to my door with 11 days..

(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/IMG_8620_zpsfea263b7.jpg)

Have also removed the floor again from the car for ease of access to rust repairs in the front of the side seals.  Have cut a sample of the problem piece out and started to fabricate a replacement piece from 2mm sheet.   LH side is worse than the drivers side so I'll attack the passenger side first.

(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/IMG_8621_zpsb5b27b13.jpg) (http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/IMG_8624_zps8a397077.jpg)

If only you could bottle and sell enthusiasm. (ill have 2 thanks)

It only takes another build or someones help to get you back into the rythym.
I have 3 kids 5 months 3 and 10 so i know what your up against.
Having my car somewhere away from work and home helps me as no one distracts me.

Keep on going car is looking great.. ;D


Pete

Someone borrowed them from me and didn't return them... Grrrr So I don't have them anymore. That Sick Fish book is by far the best book and was my best inspiration for the way I did my ute.

JB

JB I'll send you a PM

Not an overly productive weekend.  Kart state titles in town this weekend so I spent most of it out there pit crewing seeing as I was not racing.  Did manage to score myself a little present for the Send rebuild though.

(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/IMG_8652.jpg) (http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/IMG_8654.jpg)
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/IMG_8657.jpg)

The engine, a 304 V8, instead of the V6 is solely the fault of NES232 for his decision to upgrade.  It got cogs turning in my head, and its the same amount of engineering to get it complianced to the decision to purchase was made, one was sourced and Wolah.  Its now in my shed. 

Spent Saturday morning removing it from the donar car along with a few other goodies to help it run, like the ignition coil, radiator and so on.  It is coupled with the M30 auto trans but until I get some rust repairs completed and the floor of the cabin re installed it wont be going much further at this stage.  I've started the job of drilling out the spot welds on the lower sills so I can remove and then replace them.

The other piece of good news I found out of the weekend, the red 186 i've had sitting at a mates house in his shed for nigh on 8 years now is actually a 186S from the HK/T/G series.  Not a made score for $50 I paid for it at the time.

Looks good to go Jase

Good to see NES has some influence over others :D :D :D

Look forward to the build,

Cheers

Craig D

In ya face Hoon!!!

Better pull my finger out and start typing. Gotta massive update coming.

Keep being a bitch and ill spoil your "big update" with the pics on my mobile phone  ;D

DOH! :'(

HA HA....  ;D

NES what have you been doing :-[ :-[ :-[

Uploading photos. Will update at midnight after work...........

By the time you end up collecting it the storage fees would have eaten up any possible profit.  :P

I'm pretty sure the "VU" stamp on the block indicated it was either HSV or an upgraded 195kw engine. Mine is only VM = 180kw but as we have to use extractors the power goes up. I have "chipped" mine for now so it should be over 200 killer wasps anyway. car is nearly 400kg lighter than a VT too. Power to weight, mmm
Only Holden 5L V8 with roller lifters (VT V8's and series III VS I think, not all efi V8). 355 crank slides in too no grinding!!

Hi Guys. Thinking of having a crack at shortening my diff over the christmas break.  Since the V6 plans are way behind me and now the 304 is the way of the future, I was wondering if v8 Axles (correct me if im worng " 28 spline) will fit inside my V6 (24 spine)diff housing.  Figured if I purchased two short V8 diff splines, with diff centres to suit and cut the long side of the axle to suit would it still work.  By shortening only one side wont the diff be off centre.  Is this a concern.  I thought shortening both sides would be the way to go, rather than just one side and having the diff offset?

Cheers

Jason,

check the bearings are the same size in the housing, and if so, chances are it may work.

on the BW diffs, the pinions are off centre, so the long/short axles lines up the pinion in the centre of the car.

if you shorten the long side, the view from the rear will look OK, however the pinion will be off centre.

From what I've seen and according to the theory, so long as the pinion is parallel to the transmission in the vertical plane and horizontal plane, the uni's should operate OK.

I'm planning to the do the short axle method of shortening in my project too.

here's some discussion over on teh FB/EK forum with some good analysis.
http://www.fbekholden.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=26&t=13199

and some more discussion here.
http://www.moparmarketforum.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=46&t=21265&hilit=diff+conversion&sid=ab7ad0c57e59da83b5b5c0b6e2bfdd01&start=20

Cheers

Ed

Hi Forum.  Yes Im still here. I have really dropped the ball of late. Cold weather, little money and not knowing what I am doing really slows down the process.

Day off today with the dreaded man flu so what better time than to pull the blankets of the old girl and look at it again while the kids are at daycare, school and the bride is at work.

Manufacutred a rust repair section for the bottom of the A pillar this morning
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/IMG_0214_zps5feb7833.jpg)
 and then focused my attention to the inside where the A pillar and the inside sill meet.


This is what I am faced with.  I started to make a piece to put into here but at closer inspection looks like it could be difficult to get out as it seems welded to the A pillar from the inside.(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/IMG_0215_zpse2f4e348.jpg)
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/IMG_0220_zpsa841f1e8.jpg)
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/FC%20Sedan/IMG_0225_zps34e22397.jpg)

My question is when others have repaired this section of the car did they re manufacture such an item or did they simply cut it out and rust kill what was left.  Not sure if it actually does a great deal.  From what I have studied on other peoples projects looks like most have not worried about it. A lot seem to manufacture a inner front piece and weld that in only.  Im not sure what function it serves and unsure if I need to go to the trouble of welding a new one back in.

Thanks

Hey Mate. Getting this sorted will make everything else seem like straight forward. Pls read this thread below. Also, have you braced the door gaps, inserted a rod or cross support to this area to maintain geometry? Hard to tell by the pics that's all. Yes you have to manufacture this piece.

http://fefcholden.org.au/forum/index.php/topic,9272.0.html

I hope these pics help with your plan of attack. They do serve a purpose because this form a major structural integrity junction for the front frame as per the previous comments by Ken  ;)
(http://i1182.photobucket.com/albums/x448/fewithrb40/IMAG0551.jpg) ($2)
(http://i1182.photobucket.com/albums/x448/fewithrb40/IMAG0552.jpg) ($2)
(http://i1182.photobucket.com/albums/x448/fewithrb40/IMAG0553.jpg) ($2)
(http://i1182.photobucket.com/albums/x448/fewithrb40/IMAG0554.jpg) ($2)

The rear ones were also fixed on mine, so they are also posted, as well as finished front piece but I am trying to show you more progress pics of the front. Bear with me  :P

These are good before and after pics for you.
(http://i1182.photobucket.com/albums/x448/fewithrb40/IMAG0433.jpg) ($2)
(http://i1182.photobucket.com/albums/x448/fewithrb40/IMAG0434.jpg) ($2)
(http://i1182.photobucket.com/albums/x448/fewithrb40/IMAG0510.jpg) ($2)
(http://i1182.photobucket.com/albums/x448/fewithrb40/IMAG0512.jpg) ($2)

Just looked at my before pics, wasn't real good mine  :o :D

(http://i1182.photobucket.com/albums/x448/fewithrb40/P1010130.jpg) ($2)
(http://i1182.photobucket.com/albums/x448/fewithrb40/P1010128-Copy.jpg) ($2)
(http://i1182.photobucket.com/albums/x448/fewithrb40/chass2.jpg) ($2)
(http://i1182.photobucket.com/albums/x448/fewithrb40/chassis2.jpg) ($2)

 :o
Thats a whole lot of holes there

What a great challenge

Not wrong.

Ive had a couple of goes at re manufacturing these lower inner panels that are behind the rear quater at the rear of the wheel arch.  After much frustration can someone who has tackled this job point me in the direction of someone who sells replacement  repair panels.  I require both left and right as they have cancer and are to thin to repair.

(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/20140515_195927_zpsaa5de80a.jpg) ($2)

(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/20140515_195938_zps7716b686.jpg) ($2)

(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/hrpremier68/20140515_195919_zps974cb1c2.jpg) ($2)

TIA

Great to see you are still persisting.Keep up the good work.Jamie.