Hey guys, figured i'd post my restoration progress here. Long story short, resto modding a 70 slant 6 challenger with a modern gen 3 hemi with a whipple super charger all said in done, to well, beat myself in my 16 hellcat. I'm going to somewhat clone these cars, but my goal is to keep as much as the interior as stock as possible.
My goal is to do as much work as myself. I'm an engine builder so many of these aspects are new to me, so I may have some dumb questions for some of you experts. Plan is to leave the paint and interior up to the pro's and do the rest my self. I'll post a pic of the car when I first got it, and how it sits now (5/26/20), then put some progress pics in the rest of the posts with details.
(https://i.imgur.com/tN7fGhM.jpg)
Let me know if you have any questions!
Day 1, first pulling it out of the old home and getting it to my garage.
Not sure why there's extra holes in the drivers side door? Maybe they tried to mount an aftermarket side mirror... who knows.
(https://i.imgur.com/BruRvXe.jpg)
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Awesome , looks like it was purple at some point in its life !!
It was B5 with White seats and blue interior panels. The lighting looks weird in one of those pics haha
looks like solid car to start.
Test fitting the new tires on the rear and pulled out this 7 1/4 rear end
(https://i.imgur.com/Izz94GE.jpg)
315/35/18's mocked up
(https://i.imgur.com/QY6LJs0.jpg)
Will need to go with the leaf spring relocation kit
(https://i.imgur.com/ZxyCVWl.jpg)
Took the car up to get the underside media blasted, it came out great. Dropped the entire rear end and suspension components, primed and painted it. Going with a Matte Pearl White to match the 16 challenger.
(https://i.imgur.com/7cEAhe5.jpg)
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Did some research and found the closest wheels I could to match my hellcat brass monkey wheels. Unfortunately they do not make any replica's in 18's so these are pretty close!
18x9 up front- 275/40-18 Nitto NT05's and 18x10 wheels in the rear with 315/35-18 Nitto NTORr's
(https://i.imgur.com/rtqmhyr.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/CTpPps0.jpg)
New leaf springs, shocks, perches, and spring relocation kit installed. Also 8 3/4 rear end with 489 case and 3:55 gears should pair alright with the 6 speed trans going in it.
(https://i.imgur.com/QfsHSa3.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/UMdeLOD.jpg)
Ride height isn't adjusted yet, but the wheels/tires fit great. No mini tub needed, just the relocation kit, I went with the kit from Dr. Diff
(https://i.imgur.com/jb6BwtW.jpg)
Next up was the engine:
Originally built a 440 stroker, but after all the money that I had invested in it, i figured why the hell not just go with modern technology, and drop in a gen 3 hemi for around the same price.
(https://i.imgur.com/uwqZ7QQ.jpg)
Picked up a 6.1 hemi out of a 2006 charger, with harness, PCM and gas pedal for a great price. Only had 70k miles, but me being me, I have to tear down everything I buy and go through it. (Actually ended up with 2)
Upgraded to forged pistons so it will handle an power adder, and gapped the new rings appropriately
(https://i.imgur.com/eMIRw73.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/MQBHCzk.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/q8eyYpk.jpg)
Next it was time to tackle the front suspension.
Went with an aftermarket tubular frame, coil over, rack and pinion and just drops right into the factory K Frame mounts on the 70. Also went with the 6 piston wilwood front brakes.
All of the new front end components
(https://i.imgur.com/LgtxHHS.jpg)
Assembled
(https://i.imgur.com/cQlOYU9.jpg)
Paired with the 6.1
(https://i.imgur.com/CAzvLlg.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/SbiUKgY.jpg)
Will be mated up with the Tremec TR6060 trans
(https://i.imgur.com/MXQgtaI.jpg)
Time to get this sucker to run!
Run stand mockup
(https://i.imgur.com/KnrdCDi.jpg)
Will be running TTI long tube headers, just used the factory manifolds/cats for back pressure
(https://i.imgur.com/hxIvQEQ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/KOjU51z.jpg)
Here's a vid of it running. Still playing with the tune with HP tuners Might have to click the link to get the video to play
https://photos.app.goo.gl/jJ3VTGMZwFoFS4FYA
New Clutch, slave cylinder and trans installed
(https://i.imgur.com/bQ7o8aZ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/JDBeALJ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/qdSMzjm.jpg)
Out with the old, in with the new. Fit like a glove! (Minus the transmission modifications :) )
K frame coming out
(https://i.imgur.com/piusYns.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/a7Gz12E.jpg)
New frame/engine-trans going in
(https://i.imgur.com/63wagWP.jpg)
And we're in!
(https://i.imgur.com/i5CyPTP.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Ko7NTfS.jpg)
Nice!
I love my gen3, I'd really like to swap a 6.2L or stick a whipple on it.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
The last part of that car that needs attention is the floor. Needs new front pans, and media blasted. I didn't want to touch any of it until I got the transmission fitted as I knew I would have to hack most of the old trans tunnel up. Here's some pics of that process.
(https://i.imgur.com/k1GW4kN.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/knc9n4J.jpg)
I will be running a modern pistol grip shifter, same one I'm running in the hellcat, but I just used the stock hellcat shifter to mock up for now
(https://i.imgur.com/TXwRMpx.jpg)
Modern pistol grip shifter
(https://i.imgur.com/JGwSfux.jpg)
Will need to fab up a new trans tunnel and cross member
(https://i.imgur.com/csGwRDr.jpg)
Carr will go back out this week for media blasting the rest of the interior to remove surface rust. Next steps are to cut out the front floor pans and replace with ones. Make a new trans tunnel, and epoxy prime everything!
Quote from: GoodysGotaCuda on May 26, 2020, 12:25:02 PM
Nice!
I love my gen3, I'd really like to swap a 6.2L or stick a whipple on it.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
yeah sadly the hellcat engines weren't really on the market to buy when I first started this build. Now you can pick up a hellcat engine for 8-10k which isn't a bad deal at all!
Last of the pics for now, as we are caught up to current day. Don't mind the fender gaps, there are only 2 bolts on each fender :)
(https://i.imgur.com/3oWTsVO.jpg)
Still need to dial in the coil overs and get the stance where I want it.
(https://i.imgur.com/vnJmtyN.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/xlaR9f7.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/XaZ6HVa.jpg)
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Using a Modern 2012 challenger radiator, they fit in perfectly, just need to fabricate some new mounts for it
(https://i.imgur.com/o9JJWnq.jpg)
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Thanks for watching, i'll keep everyone updated with progress
This is a great looking project :twothumbsup: Going to be one to follow for sure :cooldance:
Cool project! Following. :popcorn:
Noticed that you mocked up the tires with the 7-1/4" axle and then installed a 8-3/4". Does the axles have the same width?
I believe so, but I didn't confirm forsure, I was mainly seeing if the wires would clear the wheel well. I have this diagram saved, but no reference so the 7 1/4 rear end. I did notice that the 8 3/4 and 9 3/4 rear ends were the same, so only assumed that the 7 1/4 was as well.
(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/472201751085187082/714950850979561512/v9l5Qbkjp3upNU2cIKLBoJwUzsaUFx6vgGwTQYnz-2wSklx1loamUXLoRCg8cyS71rtjBiJZ1SvqPK34zlGR1y3LzAWsmxgbduF9.png)
Aha, OK, I just bought a Barracuda that I'm quick fixing for the summer, (has a 7-1/4") and was gonna use the Foose wheels I have for my Challenger (8-3/4"). Was thinking that it might be different, but I can measure that easy. Yours seems to fit well though. Thanks for posting the diagram!
Another fun one to follow and dream about. :bigthumb:
You make this look so easy! I'm going somewhat in the direction of your build. Very interesting that you make the 315's fit so easy without the mini tubs and going with a Dana 60 from a B-body like I thought I would have to go.
Wow! You're not wasting any time on this project. :clapping: Can't wait to continue to watch your progress. Wheel and tire package are awesome. :twothumbsup: Engine sounds really healthy. :stayinlane: Love your Student Driver Sign! :D
Looking good! I would really consider a Strange S60 rear if you are going to run a whipple with manual trans. 8-3/4's get expensive to upgrade to handle that kind of HP with a manual trans...the Strange S60 will be stronger and less $$ ... :alan2cents:
:iagree: Having scattered a number of 8 3/4 diff just spend the cash once & build a Dana , Dr Diff / Cass is great to deal with :bigthumb:
Quote from: Swamp Donkey on May 26, 2020, 04:01:10 PM
You make this look so easy! I'm going somewhat in the direction of your build. Very interesting that you make the 315's fit so easy without the mini tubs and going with a Dana 60 from a B-body like I thought I would have to go.
Thanks, well all these pics are about 1.5 to 2 years apart so I wish it were that easy haha. Offset and back spacing are key, I'll be happy to share what i'm running if you are interested. I don't have much wiggle room.
Quote from: usraptor on May 26, 2020, 06:06:02 PM
Wow! You're not wasting any time on this project. :clapping: Can't wait to continue to watch your progress. Wheel and tire package are awesome. :twothumbsup: Engine sounds really healthy. :stayinlane: Love your Student Driver Sign! :D
Thanks! It's slowed down a bit since having a kid, but I wouldn't trade it for the world. I'm happy the wheels/tires fit, they were as close to as what I was looking for that I could find. Appreciate it!
Quote from: ratroaster on May 26, 2020, 06:40:17 PM
Looking good! I would really consider a Strange S60 rear if you are going to run a whipple with manual trans. 8-3/4's get expensive to upgrade to handle that kind of HP with a manual trans...the Strange S60 will be stronger and less $$ ... :alan2cents:
Quote from: Chryco Psycho on May 26, 2020, 09:07:29 PM
:iagree: Having scattered a number of 8 3/4 diff just spend the cash once & build a Dana , Dr Diff / Cass is great to deal with :bigthumb:
I actually have a Dana 60 from a 70's truck that needs rebuilt and need to shorten the tubes on. My end goal is to run a 4 link in the rear and at that time swap the dana 60 in, once rebuilt.
From what I was reading I heard the 8 3/4's can hold up to 500 - 600hp range, but with a 6 speed, launching will be hard on it. I did go with a 489 sure grip, clutch style case, I heard those were the strongest. But i'll take your guys word for it as this is my first time on one :) I do love the Dr. Diff page, and will be spending some more money there in the future!
Great build going on. :bravo:
But the Blackhawks.... :stop: :deadhorse:
j/k. Love Hockey and sure miss it.
That car will be a hoot when you are finished!
Couple more details on the rear/tire/wheel combo, please? What rear housing did you go with? '65-'70 B Body or E body with spring pads moved to 44"?
There were two different width B-body 8 3/4.
'65-'67: 59-1/2″ drum to drum
'68-'70: 60-1/8″ drum to drum
What is the back space or offset on your rear and front wheels?
My goal is to run that 315 wide tire and this information should help me keep the tires off the springs or fenders.
Quote from: Chryco Psycho on May 26, 2020, 09:07:29 PM
:iagree: Having scattered a number of 8 3/4 diff just spend the cash once & build a Dana , Dr Diff / Cass is great to deal with :bigthumb:
I actually have a Dana 60 from a 70's truck that needs rebuilt and need to shorten the tubes on. My end goal is to run a 4 link in the rear and at that time swap the dana 60 in, once rebuilt. [/quote]
From what I was reading I heard the 8 3/4's can hold up to 500 - 600hp range, but with a 6 speed, launching will be hard on it. I did go with a 489 sure grip, clutch style case, I heard those were the strongest. But i'll take your guys word for it as this is my first time on one :) I do love the Dr. Diff page, and will be spending some more money there in the future!
[/quote]
Dr. Diff Dana 60 is by far the best way to go.
Options are endless:
Pinion Snubber provisions
Tru Trac (the best there is)
Upgraded axles to Strange
Big Block Chevy yoke makes U joint costs lower and easy to find/replace
Powder coating
Girdle diff cover
Disc brakes on already
Multiple gear ratios to choose from
Range of lengths to choose from
I don't see a supercharger yet. More pictures. Sub frame connectors in your plan?
What are you doing to strengthen the unibody to handle the torque & reduce the tin can flex?
While i have lot's of suggestions i would rather you tell me what you are thinking first
Sway bars?
Quote from: Ebody Edgar on June 13, 2020, 11:40:12 AM
What are you doing to strengthen the unibody to handle the torque & reduce the tin can flex?
While i have lot's of suggestions i would rather you tell me what you are thinking first
Sway bars?
I got the US Car Tools stiffening kit. And front and read sway bars from Firm Feel. (did not get the mini tubs and spring relocation).
http://store.uscartool.com/Level-3-Chassis-Stiffening-Kit-70-74-E-Body-US-Car-Tool-Mopar-Plymouth-Cuda-Barracuda_p_155.html
Also, the K-frame stiffening kit, don't remember who I got this from though.
Fun project! :bradsthumb: With the 6060 T-56 is there a kit available that allows you to use a slip yoke for the drive shaft?
Love your wheel choice! Nice colour! :drooling: