62 Convertible Project progress thread

Dave,

since you live 90 miles away from Gearheads, here is something to consider. If they can solve a few issues in person you would be in good shape-

1. Get the parts in hand in person versus paying up front and waiting 60-90 days.
2. Get the bolts for the lower A arms versus trying to make your stock ones work.
3. Have them modify their sway bar for you so it mounts to frame.
4. Buy the concentric set up from them that Beeler used also on his 64.

Sorry. I'm just boggled as to what direction I want to go with this thing. I don't live there yet. I'll get stationed there next May.

If I understand correctly, They're not the greatest at delivery and could change a few things but they are decent.....right?

I might still consider these because the wife is adamant on not bothering with the Fatman stuff yet. I'll start with the back half and decide once I get to the front. By that time, She'll be easier to coax. Her maternity leave is hell on a guy trying to work on cars.

Can't wait to see how this car turns out for you. You seem to have perfected those AR 4 link setups.

Dave

Fakesnake, that body sure looks purty all stripped neked but sure exposes the rust mite damage. The rust looks all too familiar in the typical spots, front of the wheel wells at least look patchable, mine are rotted up past that overlaping seam.How much of the original floors are you going to cut out to make the air ride system work? I might be interested in buying any sheet metal you cut out even if it has some damage. They don't make this stuff anymore and you would be suprised what you can use to piece together to fix a damaged area. My drivers side outer wheel well is pieced together with sections from 3 different cars.
Make sure you take progress pictures of the rust repair, I like seeing how rust is delt with in different areas.
Mike

Originally Posted by 61Sunliner

Fakesnake, that body sure looks purty all stripped neked but sure exposes the rust mite damage. The rust looks all too familiar in the typical spots, front of the wheel wells at least look patchable, mine are rotted up past that overlaping seam.How much of the original floors are you going to cut out to make the air ride system work? I might be interested in buying any sheet metal you cut out even if it has some damage. They don't make this stuff anymore and you would be suprised what you can use to piece together to fix a damaged area. My drivers side outer wheel well is pieced together with sections from 3 different cars.
Make sure you take progress pictures of the rust repair, I like seeing how rust is delt with in different areas.
Mike

Mike, I don't need to cut out any sheet metal to make the air ride work. It was all in the frame modifications. I am cutting out the aftermarket floorpan patch and both quarter panels. I found some quarter panels for both sides and will replace the front floor section of driver side. I should have some extra sheet metal you can have if you want to come get it.

What kind of front control arms are you using, I mean what part#, manufacturer and for what vehicle? Did the air ride system come as a kit?

Originally Posted by v8shadow

What kind of front control arms are you using, I mean what part#, manufacturer and for what vehicle? Did the air ride system come as a kit?

THe Control Arms are made by Gearhead Cruiser Products. They make Upper/lower A arms for 60-64 Galaxies. The Air ride set up in front are Air Ride Technology Air bag Shockwaves made for 60-64 Galaxies. They take the place of the Shock and spring combined. The rear-end is a custom set up buy you can buy a bolt on set up for the rear from Air Ride. They are expensive.

Body work is going slow on the vert. Here are some pics on how anal I am being on the build. I am powdercoating virtually every metal part even if it isn't going to be seen. See below for before and after pics on a couple of pieces below-

Dang, you really are going all out on this one. Are you trying to outdo the Starliner?

Originally Posted by Domino

Dang, you really are going all out on this one. Are you trying to outdo the Starliner?

The Starliner looked good on the outside but had flaws underneath. The Convertible is a frame off so there will be a lot more detail inside and out.