Hot Rods Rocket 32 build

[langy]

A few people have asked why i havn't posted my 32 project on here as they have trouble accessing Webshots sometimes, So here goes .
I've added updates before but this time will keep everything on the same thread.

I won't bore you with too many details as there are more detailed pics here http://rides.webshots.com/album/551832694OXeiHX

The car has a mechanical/rocket theme in it which started with the rocket engine, after watching the original 50's Flash Gordon film my mind started to get idea's

Chassis is a homemade 32 frame using Speedway rails, tubular centre section & crossmembers, a lot of the original chassis stuff as been heavily modified as the engine/box has changed from a blown 283/TH350 chevy to a 394 Olds Rocket with dual hydromatic auto, This is a much bigger engine and needed a lot of chassis mods to fit.

Body is a fibreglass Rodline 32 roadster and needed a fair bit of work but more about that later.

Frontend is an I Beam setup with Aluminuim Superbell axle, Posies spring, Hairpins etc etc, Steering is Vega cross steer. Brakes are Rowdys Rodshop dummy Buicks with Willwood discs/4 pot calipers.

Rearend is a narrowed 8" Ford with 3.50 gears and a LSD, Half shafts are Moser, Brakes are 11" Ford drums adapted to the 8" axle.

Wheels/Tyres will be Chrome reverse rims & Firestone whitewall crossplys.

This is the original artists impression i started with by my artist friend Tootall, A few minor things have changed along the way but mostly its according to plan. Colour is Green metalflake with an off white underfloor & firewall, Interior will be off white with green metalflake vinyl diamond tufted inserts. Folding top is going to be white on a homemade stainless steel folding frame with original style wood bows.






Here's the chassis in its SBC configaration.





Here we have a hidden disc inside a Buick style drum, The kit originated from Rowdy's in New Zealand and hides a Willwood Caliper/Disc setup inside, As usual with any of these kits it didn't fit straight on and required fettling and modification to work correctly.







1st job was to mount the grp body and add the steel framework to hang the door hinges/locks/strikers from so as not to stress any of the grp.

Body, Grille shell & hood mounted





Here's the 394 Olds dummied together





Here's a pic of some of the steel frame






While steeling the body out i got the idea that a 40 Ford dash would be nice so my buddy Tom in Virginia found one and I narrowed it to fit





The body turned out to be a nightmare to fit doors too, I can only assume it was taken out of the mould too quick, The doors just didn't fit at all and had to be split into 2 pieces, The rear quarter panel on drivers side stuck out 1.5" further than it should have, It involved a fair bit of work to get it to all line up properly, More pics on link.

Here's a door finally fitting





Once i had both doors fitted on i moved onto the trunk lid, As per the doors it fitted where it touched !!! At this point i decided to cut the outer skin off and make a louvred panel to replace it.

Here's the panel made.





Now fitted





I really wanted an original cowl vent but my body was plain, Luckily i had a friend with a steel 32 5W so once he had got his body in primer i pulled a mould from it and popped one out.

[langy]

Now i had the body panels sorted i moved onto the rolling frame, here's the motor/trans mocked up in place.





The front motor mount is mounted on early Ford rubbers and is in the shape of a pair of rocket wings, Its made from 10mm Stainless steel so will be polished. I will add a few lightning holes later.





Headers are homemade stainless lakes style which will connect to a polished stainless under car system just as soon as i get round to making it.





Rearend is mounted by homemade stainless ladder bars/panhard rod and coilovers, All are fully adjustable.





Here's how the car sits so far, I may drop the rear slightly but i do want a 60's look.





Here's some pics of the exhaust system, for some reason i never took a pic of the complete system.















I was using original 32 stainless headlamps but have now changed to these, a bit more work as i need to sort out the rims to suit the 36 lenses and they are rare, My mate Keith is going to try to duplicate them in brass and i will get them chrome plated.















Both ltype of lights fitted for comparison.

[langy]

My next job was to paint the frame, first it was sand blasted and epoxy primed.

Then basecoated in green mettalic





Then 2 coats of forest green flake were applied.





Then 3 coats of lacquer were put on, Looks shiny now 8-)
This was allowed to kick off overnight and next day keyed up with a grey scotchbrite ready for the next 3 coats of lacquer. This was allowed to harden over night and then flat & polished next day.





_



Now i had a painted frame the nice part of fitting up started

The autobox is currently being rebuilt so engine can't be put in yet, so first job was to install the stainless brake lines and fittings and front motor mount.




Next up i fitted the exhaust system that i had already polished.








Next up was the frontend assembly and steering box.








Front brakes were next after recieving a good dose of green flake. Can't make my mind up what to do with the drums at present, I like the cast look but i think it don't go with the painted & polished bits, 3 different extures don't look right to me so will probably flake the drums and polish the fin tops.







Got the rearend painted and now in place.










Well with the forum down i found time to paint the rear tailights & finish off painting the diff.











Well thats as far as it goes at the moment as i have to wait for the rebuild kit for the autobox to arrive from the states 8-(

Once i have the rolling chassis finished i can wrap it in plastic and paint the body/panels, I have to do it this way as i use the same workshop for painting as where the car is 8-(

Will add more as i find the time although i might not be in the order it was done.

[Paul Y]

Nice work as always Steve, looking forward to seeing the grand unveiling.

Wheels day or is that too soon?

P.

[kiwipackard]

wow, thats very nice. cant wait to see this finished.

[toxictom]

damn....thats a beauty!!!!! love that little things on headlights! very,very good...

[hiboyroadsterboy]

Wow,man thats going to be sweet when its finished,hell,everything you have done to this point looks great,please keep us posted.

[langy]

I made this up and put a little flake on it then gave it to my mate Ian (bigbossman) who applied the letering to his usual high standard, script is the original Ford.



Rear number plate surround made from 20mm x 6mm flat bar.



Iron Cross brake pedal pad



Dashboard pic



Now ready for paint



Hood side panel stainless steel spears



Arvin heater



Rocket fuel block to feed the 6 carbs





These are my alternative headers i will be using from time to time.








Stainless battery holder, there are 2 of these as i'm running a propshaft driven alternator, If after a few months on the road i find the 2nd battery is not needed i will cut the top off and gut it and use it to store some tools.




Firewall mounted fuel pressure gauge.





There will be a few that won't like this 8-) click on the pic to see. But i like my music so i'm fitting a decent stereo system that also plays DVD's on a small screen, Amp's will be mounted behind the seat.





There is also another version here http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=dfpiYTkbePU

[woody2]

Nice job there Steve, I like the profile shot, Maybe a little high in the rear, its an easy fix though. I look forward to seeing it finished. Keep up the good work.

[langy]

A few people asked why i'm running a prop alternator, the reason the alty runs off the prop is that i didn't like it up front, the engine looks nice and balanced with the 3 carbs either side and if i had added the alty it looked unbalanced so i decided to run it off the prop. It runs off a pulley that is fitted to the front slip yoke,
Most prop run altys that i have seen are usually fitted on the rear axle and run off a pulley mounted at the rear of the prop, Didn't like that system as it was ugly and the alty would be subjected to shocks.
To eliminate any belt flex i have slightly longer ladder bars so that the joints share the same axis as the front UJ, This means that the slip yoke only moves about 3mm in & out even on full suspension travel, The belt can cope with this.
The pulley is an aluminium SBC water pump pulley that i modified on the lathe.
The alternator is a 100amp Toyota small job, This charges a 720amp truck battery which has a big reserve capacity so shouldn't be a problem, There is another of these batterys as well which is wired in on a solenoid should i need extra power to start at any time, I don't think it will be needed really so it may get the top cut off it and gut the inards and used for tool storage after a few months road testing.

At the engine end i have added a small idler pulley for fan belt tensioning.

Here's some pics to explain

















Here's the block being washed out again prior to being put back together 8-)
All the block core plugs were knocked out and replaced.
Front and rear gallery plugs were removed and carefully washed out with rifle brushes and degreaser.

Crank was lubricated and installed in Clevite 77 bearings, The crank and associated parts have had a full balance job. The crank spins nicely pulling just 20ftlbs on the torque wrench.












My mate Adam found a nice big bag to cover the engine whilst its being built up.





Noticed this a while ago so thought i would sort it now rather than later, the problem was that the aftermarket Finned valley cover was 10% smaller than the original steel cover, i assume that when it was cast they didn't take into account of the shrikage that you get when casting, this was solved by cutting a piece of T6061 Ally sheet 4mm thick just slightly bigger than the cover, this was fastened to the underneath of the cover with countersunk 4mm set screws and now it fits just right with a decent size gasket surface.

[langy]

Got the pistons/rods in at last.

First job was to gap the rings, Ring gap should be 3-4 thou per 1" of bore, The Olds has a 41/8" bore so i set the gaps at 16 thou.

First a ring was inserted in the bore and pushed squarley down with a piston, Then the gap could be checked.











To increase the ring gap i use a ring filing machine as here, go slowly as it can take off more than you need quite quickly.







Once the rings are gapped the can be fitted to the pistons with ring pliers.







The ring gaps should be in this position.








Once the rings were fitted and the pistons were on the rods it was time to put them in the bores, First 2 pieces of rubber were put over the rod bolts to protect the crank journals, Then we broke out the ring compressor.
We dunked the assembled piston into some oil and proceeded to install them.













The caps were then torqued in place in 20 ft/lb steps.









When you have the pistons/rods installed a good rule of thumb is to put a torque wrench on the crank and see what it pulls when rotated, Anywhere between 50-60 ft/lbs is good, This one pulled 50 ft/lbs








Next job was to install the cam, I used a degree wheel here to dial it in perfectly but have no pics as my hands were oily.
Once the cam was in the timing dots were lined up and the timing wheels & chain were fitted. With the cover buttoned up i turned to fitting the oil pump, It all stopped at this point as i found they had sent me the 60-64 Oil pump and my engine is a 59 8-(







Here's where i am at the moment until the new oil pump arrives 8-)

[langy]

Got my Headlamps sorted today ready for flaking, Buckets are GRP and my biggest problem was i wanted to use 36 Ford lenses as they are nicely rounded but the bezels are very rare, My mate Keith came to my rescue and made a mould off one kindly lborrowed from Andy on here (thanks Andy) and metal spun a pair up in brass, They were then chromed and i made up some adaptor rings for it to all bolt together, Reflectors are also 36 Ford fitted with some halogen bulbs Keith sells to fit the old ford fitting.

I think they came out real good, Well pleased.















Headlamps finally painted, Autobox now back and ready for paint so hopefully i should be able to drop the motor/trans in early next week.

[langy]

The Dual Hrydromatic auto is now back from rebuilding so gave it a splash of colour, Hope to get the engine/trans finally mounted in the next couple of days.









Its in at last. 8-)





Finished my propshaft alternator.








And made up an adjustable idler pulley for the front.














The sump is now painted, I've been looking for a replacement as this one was in very poor condition but havn't found one yet so i welded some patch panels into it and hammered the dents out, It looks reasonable now but i will still change it if a better condition one comes along.
The off white is the same colour as the firewall and the underneath of the body.






The trans pan had a hard life in the past and was covered in small dents, a couple of hours with a hammer and dolly saw it in much better condition, primed it up and shot in a couple of coats of off white.

[langy]

Got a bit more done tonight, gun finish so will need a little flat & polish tomorrow.












Had a few hours spare today so did a bit more today.



The 40 Ford dash has been narrowed 1" in the centre, The chrome speaker grill has been narrowed also and also the ends where the ashtrays normally are was filled in (not much point in ashtrays in a roadster) then the ends were reshaped to match the narrower 32 scuttle. the gauges are VDO white faced which are fitted behind a custom made aluminium insert which was CNC'd and fitted with the original 40 ford chrome trim, the guages are then fitted from behind.


















Grill shell fitted up, the badge was made from a pice of aluminium and shaped to fit in the spoon, It was lightly flaked and then my good mate Ian (bigbossman) weilded his magic brushes and put on my name in the style of the original ford script and a border line around the outside in a darker green. Thanks Ian.












If i told you it took over 6.5 hours to fit the dash trim below would you believe me ???








Idler back from the chromers and finished.






Bit more paintwork done.














.

[langy]

Trunklid painted.









Here's a taster of the interior trim, Trimmer is coming this week for trail fitment, i can't wait !!!






My 40 dash has the deluxe trim and glovebox so i really wanted an original 40 ford clock, I didn't realise how sort after they are and even half decent ones reach £200 on Ebay, There is a company in the U.S. doing a cheaper replacement that has a quartz movement but even these are £70 each so i decided to do my own. I bought a chrome front & a repro clock face from Bob Drake for £20 and picked up a quartz battery powered movement for £2 from Ebay.


Here's the repro clock face with the quartz movement fitted, I had to cut all the hands down as the were originally 4" long.







Here's the repro chrome front.








Due to the spindle on the quartz movement being quite long and it wasn't possible to shorten it i had to make a spacer that fitted inside the chrome front piece, this was cut from a lump of 12mm ally plate.






Here's all the bits fitted together, Don't look too bad does it ???




Here's the veiw from the rear, When its fitted to the glovebox i will make up a cover to hide it all away.




Here its all fitted to the glovebox, I'm pretty pleased how it turned out. I might repaint the face white to match the other gauges.

[langy]

Got a surprise xmas visit from my trimmer last night who bought over some of the finished panels, this is one of the door cards finished and with the stainless finishers fitted.










Wasn't very happy with my clock face so thought i would change it. I cut a new piece of sheet ally and based it in white then added the green flake iron cross by brush, Didn't think it would work but came out just right, Letraset sorted the text

Before




After







Also made this up, I never like to see the sender & the oil pressure switch on a detailed engine so i had a fuel block i made up age's ago but never used so its bolted underneath on the frame and a -3 braided line runs from the oil takeoff to the block where the senders are mounted.

[langy]

The seat base was made up ages ago in 25mm box tube but the trimmer wanted to get on with the seat so i need to add an apron around the frame to hold the ignition switch, indicator arm, cigarette lighter socket and the heated seat switches.



I cut a peice of 2mm ally sheet and basically just followed the shape of the base around, Its held by screws at the moment as somebody borrowed my rivet gun. Once it was secured to the base i marked around the perimeter and removed the excess.




Now the trimmer can finish off the base and hopefully i will have a complete seat soon.






Decided i didn't like the skull shifter nob i had so i had a rummage through my scrap stainless bin and made a jig and made a much better shift nob.

[langy]

Well my cylinder heads finally came back from the machinist so now i can get a lot of the fiddly jobs finished like the throttle linkage and kick down assembly.






When i got the 6x2 Wiend drag star intake the rear water crossover was missing so this was made up from stainless bends.









The front water crossover/thermostat housing i have is a stock Wiend type but due to it coming from a smaller displacement Rocket motor it didn't fit the larger vee on my 394, this was solved by adding some spacers to the ends, These will be welded and polished as soon as i get a chance.







This is the engine steady i made from some scrap stainless hex bar.






Top hose is made from stainless steel bends and finished off with short lengths of rad hose and stainless clips.
















Well instead of looking at the forum last night i had a go at the thottle linkage.
I bought a kit from the states but to be honest its absolute garbage so i will use it to setup and remake in stainless while the carbs are stripped for paint.

First job was to make up a mount for the cross bar to fit to, I found a bit of 12mm x 6mm stainless flat bar in the scrap bin that fitted the job just right and drilled and tapped the log intake for it to fit too.









Next up i found a couple of rose joints in my box to mount the cross shaft, I also drilled the bar to make it not look so bulky, and gave it a quick polish.








All seems to work quite well and not as heavy as i thought it would be, Off now to finish the other side and mount some return springs and make up the kickdown linkage.

[langy]

Getting closer to fire up, Throttle linkage/Fuel pipes all made and finished.











It all went a bit wrong this morning, Had to go to media blasters so thought i would see what the headers would look like vapour blasted, They looked really good until i run one of them over with my daily

Bit the bullet and saved what i could and started to make another.

Saved the front pipe and back pipe so used these on a new cone. They are a little tricky to make as the pipes have to have a 45 degree bend as they exit the head and the 2 centre pipes are siamesed so the pipes have to have the side cot out of them, this causes the tube to spring open so they have to be clamped slightly to make them round again before the straight bits are welded back on, if that makes sense 8-)






New centre pipes









Got to this stage and run out of TIG gas until monday


The rear breather road draught tube was missing from the engine so the scrap bin was raided and the bit welded together and polished.

[langy]

Cracked on with repairing the header tonight and got everything ready for welding tomorrow evening.















Came up against a little problem that the plug wires were fairly close to the headers, solved it by making up some bars that would hold the wires tight to the block, I replaced the bottom header bolts with some longer studs so the bars bolt on here, The plug wirs are held in place by a couple of Adel clamps either side, looks neater as well.










Well the replacement header is finish welded and ready for white paint.








Had an hour spare today so thought i would paint the carb scoops white to match the firewall instead of the red, Now i'm not so sure, Carbs have yet to be painted green flake so maybe they will look ok then, If anybody has got any idea's i would be pleased to hear them ???

[langy]

Had a couple of spare hours so thought i would get the kickdown linkage sorted, 8hrs later its sorted
Its amazing how long these simple little jobs actually take !!!

Main problem was that i didn't want the throttle to be overly heavy and make driving a chore so i removed the carb springs from the corner carbs and decided to go with fairly long levers to lighten the action but this of course meant longer lever throws, another fly in the ointment was that the Hydromatic kickdown isn't a conventional type, its a type of shuttle valve that opens larger ports to let the box pressure increase with throttle opening and has a 2 stage return spring.

It would of been a lot easier to make it cable operated but 94's work the opposite way round to most carbs so the throttle arm ended up pushing instead of pulling so therefore had to be operated by a long rod down to a bellcrank which then works the kickdown lever by another short rod. (I hope that makes sense )

The levers were cut from 5mm stainless plate and are 75mm pivot to pivot, some thickwall stainless tube was cut and tapped for the 3/16 unf rose joints, to save a lot of cutting the levers were cut out of 5mm ply to start as some of the holes had to be played with.

It all works really well now and has a fairly light throttle action.











Managed to get another of those pesky little jobs done last night, I've never liked the look of the oil pressure senders, Even painting them they just don't blend in so i thought i would try a different approach and make a cover for it. I found a bit of thick wall stainless tube and bored it out to suit the diameter of the sender, The ribs were already in it as it was an offcut from something else.
A capping disc for the end was one of the holesaw off cuts from my 26T chassis, Glad i never threw them away now !!!
The hole was cut in the end and shaped to accept the terminal block on the end of the sender, The disc was then welded to the end of the tube. Plenty of weld was put on so i could linish a nice radius on the corner.







The weld was then cleaned off on the linisher.







Then it got a quick lick on the polisher.





Painted in between the ribs and i reckon it looks just right now. Guess i will have to make one for the other oil switch now.







.

[langy]

Bigbossman sent me a present today to keep the theme going, Its a pair of Rocket pants, I do love his sense of humour, We are all still laughing.

[langy]

Not had much time on my own car recently but managed to sort out my trans cooler, Its mounted under the car out of the way so i've added a scoop to funnel air through the matrix, Also fitted 2 electric fans that are switched on by a 215F switch mounted in the gearbox out cooler pipe.
The rest was made from offcuts from my stainless bin.
The ally scoop will be painted off white to match the underside/firewall.

[langy]

Hoping for Wheels Day mid April Paul, On course at the moment but you never really know what spanners could get thrown into the works.

Originally Posted by Paul Y

Nice work as always Steve, looking forward to seeing the grand unveiling.

Wheels day or is that too soon?

P.

[Bill Schickling]

Maybe if we saw the carbs against the firewall. If I follow that is off white as well.

[Morrisman]

'Kin awesome Steve. You make it look so easy, all the extra attention, the finishing details, the little tricks and touches, puts my own efforts to shame.

I hope to see it in the flesh again soon as well.

[studematt]

Its all attention to detail. AWESOME! Thanks for all the pics.

[pasadenahotrod]

Great work, can't wait to see the finish. AND the first ride!

[Chris Casny]

Outstanding work, the details are just phenomenal.

[Pez]

Saw it in the flesh last Weds. The pictures don't do it justice.
.

[rodncustom]

It looks awesome!

[langy]

Thanks for the kind comments.

I know its not everyone's cup of tea but then again i'm doing it for me

[langy]

Yes Bill firewall is same colour as the sump etc, Hopefully put body on next week so we will see.

Originally Posted by Bill Schickling

Maybe if we saw the carbs against the firewall. If I follow that is off white as well.

[60'shotrod]

Steve, Stunning work! I hope you're gonna be wearing those pants this year!
SO MUCH damn FLAKE, Bloody GREAT!
So many great British cars due out this year, I think its' gonna be a GOOD Rod run season!
Steve, your attention to detail is a bloody marvel!

Nick.

[James Boys]

The brackets you made to mount those 37 Ford tail lights look awesome! I'm trying to figure something like that out to mount a set of mine on a 31 coupe. Any more info on those???

Wes

[langy]

James they are made from stainless bends and solid bar off cuts from my offcut bin plus of course lots of grinding and polishing

Originally Posted by James Boys

The brackets you made to mount those 37 Ford tail lights look awesome! I'm trying to figure something like that out to mount a set of mine on a 31 coupe. Any more info on those???

Wes

[James Boys]

I was trying to figure a way to use original 37 Ford stands, but yours look really good. Might have to borrow an idea or two.

Thanks!

[Harms Way]

Utterly fantastic !

[rodncustom]

Originally Posted by langy

Thanks for the kind comments.

I know its not everyone's cup of tea but then again i'm doing it for me

That's the only way to do it! Same way I did mine.

[langy]

Can't remember if i posted a pic of them mounted, they are on the rear frame horns either side of the tank.

Originally Posted by James Boys

I was trying to figure a way to use original 37 Ford stands, but yours look really good. Might have to borrow an idea or two.

Thanks!

[blackjack]

What Steve hasn't said is that in addition to doing this work he is a busy and sought after rod builder in the UK. He is also always available to give help, advice and encouragement to newbies. Very nice bloke and one of UK Roddings stalwarts.

[JRODHOTROD]

Im green with envy.

[captainjunk#2]

thats an awesome build , and i really dig that green metalflake paint .

[gnichols]

Amazing work. But I'd be afraid to drive it, it looks so nice. Gary

[Morrisman]

Coldwar, this might address the stability problem?

[flatoz]

Langy

your vision is beyond most that is for sure, if your aiming for 60's show rod with detail to the max you have acheived it. I could not build something to that quality ever, but I do enjoy watching someone who can. I'm too much a barebones basic kind of guy, but always marvel at those who can see the next level of detail. and it looks like you couldn't swing a cat in that shed.

[Rckt98]

I am constantly amazed at the depth of talent on display on the HAMB.
There are many clever people and you sir, are right up there.
Always good to see a rocket engine instead of the usual SBC.

[ST. 515]

Love all the detail, great job!!!

-Saint

[Mopar34]

Thanks for the build pix. Keep them coming. Your work is meticulous and the product is sweet. Going to be one helluva nice rod when complete.

[Rdono]

I have a new hero, he builds hot rods and lives in the UK.

[29paul]

Great fab work thats going to be one bad ass ride.WOW

[resqd37Zep]

Your workmanship is top notch all the way. I guess there is one little problem though. Everytime I close my eye's I still see that green. Beautiful!

[Del Clark]

What electric fan did you use to go in front of the radiator behind the grille?

[draginsteel]

Man Those are some great pictures. You are very dedicated to be doing this from so far away. Cheers

[Evel]

Fantastic build!!! I'm digging what you did for the kickdown... I'm trying to get that figured out right now on my hydro...I might be picking your brain on that if you don't mind...

evel

[poorboy]

great work!

[Dirty2]

Green Rules !

[HotRodMicky]

Who said Glass cars couldn't be cool??
Awesome car!!!!!!!!!!!!
Michael

[langy]

Evil your A coupe is one of my current faves, if i can help i would be honoured.
I think you have done marvels with the Mad Fab DVD's, keep em coming.

Originally Posted by Evel

Fantastic build!!! I'm digging what you did for the kickdown... I'm trying to get that figured out right now on my hydro...I might be picking your brain on that if you don't mind...

evel

[langy]

Thanks for your input mate, This car won't be seeing a trailer unless it breaks down. I appreciate your concerns but i've got it covered.

I'm always happy to hear other builders thoughts, Nobody knows it all.

Originally Posted by coldwar

As a fellow long-time Oldsmobile enthusiast, I sure like the parts, and attention to detail I see, I'm a bit jealous of guys who can maintain a vison of the completed project, and see it through to completion with the idea intact. I do not have the idea you posted your build pics for feedback, or ideas about what you might have done differently, but I feel compelled to speak out now, as something jumped out at me: The only word I have for your front motor mount is:

SCARY!

Capturing the engine with the four lower cover bolts does indeed follow the factory method used with the 'one in front, two at bellhousing' mount system, with the factory biscuit carried directly under the front mount, as I am sure you know. But the bellhousing mounts were carried higher on the sides of the assembly, with the fastening point on bellhousing just below crankshaft centerline, not only to affix the engine and keep it in position in the event of a collision or heavy use, but also to control assembly yaw under heavy use, either in acceleration, or when engine is used as a grade retarder. You have the assembly mounted with the four bolts in front, very low, and at the very rear of transmission, again, low on the assembly - I like the wide spacing of the front mount, this idea was proven long ago with the Hurst system of engine swapping - But the Hurst Oldsmobile engine side mounts used three cover bolts per side, and then one additional large tapped hole in the block to tie it in on three axis, with the biscuit mount again, higher close to crankshaft centerline to control yaw - Even these did break, or fail to keep it all in place, in high horsepower cars, or in collisions - Bear also in mind, even with the aluminum parts you have for your engine, the engine-trans assembly wet will approach 800#/363Kg, with a proportional amount of weight up high due to heavy heads - I won't question whether or no it is valid to mount this assembly at the rear of the transmission, but let me say the stength of the bellhousing is definately in play, with it all mounted as you have done - The transmission hangs off of the back of the mounted engine in production cars, which was always marginal - I dont suppose you will have slicks on it, or subject it to neutral slams.

I'm not looking for something to pick at your car about. My concern is for safety for you, and your riders. If the assembly gets loose for any reason, it obviously can obstruct your steering controls, cut brake lines, or both, rendering your car at once uncontrollable. In one case you might get crushed, burned or scalded - Perhaps it was built as a show car, and will see only trailer running time, that would make my remarks less relevant - Best ~ CW

[hershambob]

steve,for someone that does all their own work,you have lovely nails!!!!
cars looking great

[Evel]

Originally Posted by langy

Evil your A coupe is one of my current faves, if i can help i would be honoured.
I think you have done marvels with the Mad Fab DVD's, keep em coming.

Thanks Langy...I really appreciate it... I'll pm you with question soon...

[PAUCHO]

HOLY SMOKES !.........The paint....the details....I love it !....I'm really diggin' the alternator idea....You've got the big skills, and I like the style....fabulous !

[langy]

Hi Del its a 16" Spal thinline, hope this helps ya.

Originally Posted by Rumbler Del

What electric fan did you use to go in front of the radiator behind the grille?

[langy]

I try to keep them up to scratch Robert LOL

Originally Posted by hershambob

steve,for someone that does all their own work,you have lovely nails!!!!
cars looking great

[Ice Breaker]

Wow!!! Incredible! I would be afraid to drive it with all the paint detail on the frame...

[cretin]

Incredible! Really nice work!

[aerorocket]

What cam are you running? Have you checked the piston to valve clearance ? Just curious I am also building a 394 and I see you are running flat top pistons with no valve reliefs. Beautiful car outstandig craftsmenship.

[Bib Overalls]

Freaking awesome!

[langy]

I've pm'd you the details AR.

Originally Posted by aerorocket

What cam are you running? Have you checked the piston to valve clearance ? Just curious I am also building a 394 and I see you are running flat top pistons with no valve reliefs. Beautiful car outstandig craftsmenship.

[rob lee]

Is that a zenor diode I see on the firewall? Real nice details!

[Super88]

Just the photos of the engine alone are a wealth of info for me. Great work!

[Sparkswillfly]

Great build!!!!

[junkyardgenius]

Originally Posted by langy

Bigbossman sent me a present today to keep the theme going, Its a pair of Rocket pants, I do love his sense of humour, We are all still laughing.

you gonna be wearing these when you come down.

[langy]

Go to the top of the class Rob Not many people know what it is, I use it for making my coil lead look a little more interesting.

Originally Posted by rob lee

Is that a zenor diode I see on the firewall? Real nice details!

[langy]

Thanks Geoff, I just try and help and encourage to promote rodding in the UK, hopefully it will grow larger and larger.

Originally Posted by blackjack

What Steve hasn't said is that in addition to doing this work he is a busy and sought after rod builder in the UK. He is also always available to give help, advice and encouragement to newbies. Very nice bloke and one of UK Roddings stalwarts.

[motoandy]

Wow

[solid]

I like all the little details. Great build, cool rod.

[langy]

Got em on now

Originally Posted by junkyardgenius

you gonna be wearing these when you come down.

[langy]

i'm now happy with the white carb scoops against the white firewall.

[attitudor]

Any plans to bring the hotrod to the Finland show?

--mika

[model-a-fan]

How did I miss this. What attention to detail. It needs more flake though.

[Mike Britton]

What a frikkin' artist!!!!
One thing you have impressed me on is that the devil really is in the details. The real work comes in final assembly, not so much in initial fabrication.
Now I have to rethink how much time to allow for final assembly. Thanks, Mike

[turdytoo]

Besides being an awesome craftsman, you are quite a photographer too. beautiful build.

[Da Flash]

Yo, the car is right down the right alley thats for sure. Good choice in Street Rodder covers in the background. I shot the yellow '36 in front of the gas station. Two Brit street rodders just left here, (Portland, Oregon). They came over for the Portland Roadster Show. Mick Rolf, and Barry Flood, we had a great time.
Again your roadster is perfect.
Da Flash

[DrewDay]

Im liking the green metal flake

[SniffnPaint]

your disgusting my friend. ........................ wow!

[Cshabang]

oh man, when they say its in the details, they aren't kidding. Killer car..can't wait to see more Blokie

[Guitar Guy]

dude im loving that camshaft in the front

[Del Clark]

Beautiful work! Great craftsmanship! A+++++++

[moter]

Great build Langy!

[Woogeroo]

Lovely fab work and I think the color is perfect, then again I like green.

Thanks for taking the time to share the pictures and all the little details with us.

I am enjoying reading about this build.

-W

[Large_911]

That build is outstanding! I love the attention to detail...

[langy]

Mika i was there last year with my T Bucket, Would of been nice to take the 32 this year but it won't be finished in time i'm afraid.

Originally Posted by attitudor

Any plans to bring the hotrod to the Finland show?

--mika

[langy]

Its pretty blingy now !!!

Originally Posted by model-a-fan

How did I miss this. What attention to detail. It needs more flake though.

[kopperkart]

Everything fits the the theme perfectly. Call the magazines now for photo sessions!

[langy]

Thanks Flash, Barry & Mick are very old buddy's of mine and both are top guy's.

Originally Posted by Da Flash

Yo, the car is right down the right alley thats for sure. Good choice in Street Rodder covers in the background. I shot the yellow '36 in front of the gas station. Two Brit street rodders just left here, (Portland, Oregon). They came over for the Portland Roadster Show. Mick Rolf, and Barry Flood, we had a great time.
Again your roadster is perfect.
Da Flash

[langy]

Thanks to all the other guys that posted kind comments, Its appreciated. Its not gonna be everyone's cup of tea but i like it !!!

[fab32]

Kinda speachless here, and that rarely happens. I could go on and on about all of the details but most have already been covered. In the end it amounts to a very carefully crafted hot rod, built with skilled hands, that will not take a back seat to ANYTHING. Thanks for sharing and keep the progress pictures and text coming, we're waiting impatiently.

Frank

[BigBossMan]

Just gets better all the time mate, you're a real inspiration to so many and modestly share your knowledge freely.

Thanks for the helpful chat today,

Ian

[attitudor]

Originally Posted by langy

Mika i was there last year with my T Bucket, Would of been nice to take the 32 this year but it won't be finished in time i'm afraid.

Yeah, I know. That's the reason I'm asking. It would be great to see your car in person. My old car was nearby yours in the show.



--mika

[langy]

Maybe next year, If it gets accepted ???

Cheers
Steve.

Originally Posted by attitudor

Yeah, I know. That's the reason I'm asking. It would be great to see your car in person. My old car was nearby yours in the show.


--mika

[Bill Schickling]

Langy,

The carbs look great. The whole build looks great. To offset your work on an American car, I started work on my Bugeye aka Frogeye sprite this week end.

[langy]

Ha ha ha Bill, Had one about 35 years ago, hope you fit in it ok

Originally Posted by Bill Schickling

Langy,

The carbs look great. The whole build looks great. To offset your work on an American car, I started work on my Bugeye aka Frogeye sprite this week end.

[langy]

Had a few problems painting the body, I had a terrible reaction on the first coat of flake
I let it dry and flatted it back and tried again but same reaction came back so decided to flat it back to primer and seal with a coat of Epoxy primer, A friend suggested changing to a different make of basecoat and it turned out fine

This was the first time i had used a HVLP gun on a complete body so i was a bit concerned that i hadn't had enough practice as HVLP is a little different in application, Turned out to be ok but not the best gun finish in some places i've ever done, it certainly lays the paint on thick with very very little overspray, finish isn't a problem as its all gonna be colour sanded anyway.

I had to paint it in my mate Edd Browns garage so made up a jig to hold the body on my small trailer for transporting it back and forth.

The flake don't really show up in pics and these were taken before the sun came out, when the sun came out it really sparkled
















Started the laborious job of colour sanding today so will post some pics tomorrow of it sanded and polished.



.

[60'shotrod]

Steve, WOW! MMMM green 'n' Flakey I LOVE it!
Looks to have a lotta depth to paint, a mile deep Great.

Nick.

[Taildraggin]

Nice Job

[captain scarlet]

Nice job. Been following that on the "other forum"

[langy]

It ought to Nick its got 10 coats of 2k lacquer on it

Originally Posted by 60'shotrod

Steve, WOW! MMMM green 'n' Flakey I LOVE it!
Looks to have a lotta depth to paint, a mile deep Great.

Nick.

[radar33]

WOW GREEN FLAKE OVERLOAD!!!! i love it. Great work

[langy]

Just wondered how it would look at night, so nipped out and got a pic under the street lights, Its flakey !!!

[Silent_Orchestra]

Originally Posted by langy

Just wondered how it would look at night, so nipped out and got a pic under the street lights, Its flakey !!!

Whoa... That is sweet. You did a beautiful job on it..Can't wait to see it together.

[langy]

Here's a short video that shows it in daylight, still not a true representation though as its much more sparkly in the sun.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qho59xyHZhc

[woody2]

Awesome Langy. That paint is outstanding man.
The Devils in the details.

[langy]

This is the nice part of Rod building Ordered the carpet yesterday so trimming in very soon.

[60'shotrod]

Steve, I'm lookin' forward to seeing your Roadster in person!

Nick.

[langy]

Thanks Nick, its coming together pretty quick now

Originally Posted by 60'shotrod

Steve, I'm lookin' forward to seeing your Roadster in person!

Nick.

[langy]

Well first rodrun of the year Wheels day was a bit of a washout which was a shame, but good for me as i got home early and assembled my Arvin heater which i had restored earlier and had the various parts rechromed, also fitted the rear bulhead and the electrics that sit on it. The original core was pretty good considering it was 70 years old with only 1 pinhole which i managed to solder up, The fan has been replaced with a new 12v 6" Spal fan the front of the heater has 3 opening vents and the front also revolves to direct heat where you need it so i should be nice and cosy especially with the heated seats

[slepe67]

Langy, quit slacking and finish this car so I can see it ALL!

[60'shotrod]

Steve, That heater is Bloody marvellous!

Nick.

[Jeem]

Freakin' under-achiever!

[1hot57]

Dude I hope you like Green !!! Keep up the OUTSTANDING work

[langy]

Managed to get the dash fitted up yesterday and i'm 1/3 of the way through wiring, hopefully won't be long now.

[60'shotrod]

Steve, DAMN! I've always thought that '40 ford dashes are one of the nicest around and yours' just reinforces that point,NICE!

Nick.

[blackout]

Beautiful details, Langy.

[Mike Britton]

You read about hot rods that are worth six figures........Count up the hours

[langy]

Indeed Mike there are a few hours in this build, I know how many but i don't want to think about working it out at an hourly rate

Originally Posted by Mike Britton

You read about hot rods that are worth six figures........Count up the hours

[nutrocker]

As always Steve your work is top notch. Looking forward to seeing in person.
Keep up the good work.................Pete

[Kiwi Kev]

Awesome thread! Thanks for taking the time. Can't wait to see it all together. That might be the best looking Olds engine I've seen!

[Mopar34]

This is been one helluva build. Your attention to detail deserves either a detailer or builder of the year award. Totally Awesome. I really like the Arvin heater and the way you re-did it. Pure Class!

[bigd4xman]

Wheres the Leprechaun (sp) hiding? Just kidding! Thats ALOT of green and a crapload of flake. Love the way that heater looks man, excellent detail on everything.

[langy]

Well the car is really getting there now so time for some wiring.

For those that are interested here's how i did it.

First job was to get a decent battery, the one i've used is a Yuasa Elite part no 100T Its a Jaguar V8 battery and has a 680CCA and a 70 amp hor capacity, I've used these in quite a few cars and found them to be excellent. There is 2 in my 32, 2nd one is a backup due to the propshaft alternator,probably won't need it but you never know





Next up was a wiring kit, I couldn't use the normal 9+3 as it stands a little high off the panel so i'm useing a mini blade fuse 12 circuit which is tiny and fits where i want it easily, I didn't want to put the fusebox under the dash as most people do as its difficult to get to and you just know if a fuse blows it will be in the dark and raining !!! I prefer to have them under the seat or behind as this one is.





The fusebox was mounted and the wiring dummied up in place.





All the wires were run into position and are held to the floor with rubber lined Adel clamps.











We have a glimmer of life at last !!!




This is a handy little box of tricks, its a Spal fan controller which has an upper and lower temp setting, upper is st at 200F and lower is set at 160F, Both settings are adjustable to your requirements, It also brings in your electric fan at 1/2 speed and gradually builds up to maximum speed as needed. I'm not a fan (get it ) of just having a switch as it relys on you remembering to turn it on





Ignition is by Mallory Hyfire 6AL electronic which is switched by the points at the moment.





Here's the gauge panel wired up on plugs & sockets.







Next i came to the wiring that you see under the hood, Its always difficult to hide these so i decided to make a feature of them and ran them in cloth braided vintage style wire and then laced them together the old fashioned way. This is only from the firewall socket forward, I did consider doing the whole loom in it but its not cheap and its not seen anyway plus it would of took ages to lace together

[HEMI32]

langy ... Great build thread ... thanks for taking the time to post!

Your attention to detail is simply awesome (and dig your use of 12 pt bolts) ... keep the pics coming!

[Customline Vicky]

Absolutely fantastic, but I wouldn't expect any less from a guy that hangs his tools on the wall and they stay there ....

[60'shotrod]

Bloody Hell Steve, your wiring is a thing of beauty!

Nick.

[PAUCHO]

SPECTACULAR !.....I'm lovin' everything about it !.....But you're makin' me feel shameful.....

[Mike Britton]

Steve, I want you to do something for me, and for possibly millions of other rodders out there.
I've been keeping up with this thread and the pics in it and I've learned as much, if not more, than some books that I spent good money for. I believe that if you took all the pics of this build and added a narrative you would have a text book for construction that would be valuable to a lot of us. Valuable enough that I would certainly buy one. It shows what kind of construction we are all capable of...if someone shows us the way. Doesn't matter if you're building a '55, or a bucket, this is the way to do it. Consider this. Mike

[langy]

Mike i'm flattered that you think that, I do write a few tech articles for our UK Custom Car magazine but would never call myself good enough to put a book together, I just write it as if i was telling a mate, I'm not sure that it always comes across correctly, I was never one for paying attention at school as i preferred chatting to the girls 8-)

Originally Posted by Mike Britton

Steve, I want you to do something for me, and for possibly millions of other rodders out there.
I've been keeping up with this thread and the pics in it and I've learned as much, if not more, than some books that I spent good money for. I believe that if you took all the pics of this build and added a narrative you would have a text book for construction that would be valuable to a lot of us. Valuable enough that I would certainly buy one. It shows what kind of construction we are all capable of...if someone shows us the way. Doesn't matter if you're building a '55, or a bucket, this is the way to do it. Consider this. Mike

[langy]

Nick It took 4 x 8hr evenings to wire it, to be honest it could of been a lot neater but it won't be on show so no point in spending anymore time on it.

Originally Posted by 60'shotrod

Bloody Hell Steve, your wiring is a thing of beauty!

Nick.

[60'shotrod]

Steve, Your wiring looks neat enough to me, thats for sure!

Nick.

[eddie1]

How do you find the time to keep us posted of the progress? Looks great & I appriciate the updates!

[36couper]

If your body manufacturer is the same one I'm thinking of, I bought one as well. A friend of mine did the bulk of the build (English Nick Harrison). The doors took a bit of work but most of it was the quarter area behind the doors.
At 6'1", the cockpit was a bit small for me. If I were to do it over again, I would remove the lip at the very back of the cockpit and moved the seat back.

It's nice to see old world craftsmanship back at work in the UK!

[langy]

I know Nick very well, hope he's doing good.

To be honest i'm 6ft and have plenty of room, I'm sure its how you setup the seat, mine is pretty low and angled back a fair bit.

My body wasn't a lot of money to be honest as i had a trade deal with him but when i recieved it i'm sure it had been taken out of the mould too soon as it was twisted pretty bad, also the 2 halves of the doors were bonded together out of line so didn't fit the holes at all, To be fair i've seen bodys from Rodline that were made before and after mine and they seem pretty good, maybe mine was a Friday body

Originally Posted by 36couper

If your body manufacturer is the same one I'm thinking of, I bought one as well. A friend of mine did the bulk of the build (English Nick Harrison). The doors took a bit of work but most of it was the quarter area behind the doors.
At 6'1", the cockpit was a bit small for me. If I were to do it over again, I would remove the lip at the very back of the cockpit and moved the seat back.

It's nice to see old world craftsmanship back at work in the UK!

[its_a_nick]

Great build. The details are amazing.
With the electric fan thing, why is there a upper temp setting?

[langy]

The controller firstly brings the fan in at half speed and gradually increases until its at full speed therefore needing a low setting and a high setting, Hope this helps.

Originally Posted by its_a_nick

Great build. The details are amazing.
With the electric fan thing, why is there a upper temp setting?

[carbon guy]

stunning

[36couper]

Originally Posted by langy

I know Nick very well, hope he's doing good.

To be honest i'm 6ft and have plenty of room, I'm sure its how you setup the seat, mine is pretty low and angled back a fair bit.

My body wasn't a lot of money to be honest as i had a trade deal with him but when i recieved it i'm sure it had been taken out of the mould too soon as it was twisted pretty bad, also the 2 halves of the doors were bonded together out of line so didn't fit the holes at all, To be fair i've seen bodys from Rodline that were made before and after mine and they seem pretty good, maybe mine was a Friday body

I'll tell Nick we have exchanged posts. He is doing very well. Built himself a beautiful home north of Toronto and just recently finished a Brookville roadster for his brother in England. His brother just received it in a container last week. Look for it.........it's black with a white Bop Top roof.
Keep up with the excellent work and posts!

[a boner]

Beautiful HOT ROD!........thanks for all the pic's and info.

Where did you get the stainless steel cones that you used for the headers?
Thanks again.

[langy]

Mine were rolled here in the U.K. but you can get them here in various sizes [http://www.coneeng.com/

QUOTE=a boner;3841314]Beautiful HOT ROD!........thanks for all the pic's and info.

Where did you get the stainless steel cones that you used for the headers?
Thanks again.[/QUOTE]

[Doc Squat]

Freeking fantastic build. Who ever said there were no craftsmen left haven't met you. Keep posting. Detail is way out there.

[mr.smith]

if you went through all the trouble nd effort why cheap out nd go with glass
still looks great though

[langy]

Your not wrong there mate, Trouble is that looking at these bodys at a show your looking at the best they have, what you recieve is a lot different
When i think back it would of been both quicker and better to buy a Brookville flat pack body but unfortunately i didn't have that sort of money available plus i wouldn't have had all that fun straightning it out

Originally Posted by mr.smith

if you went through all the trouble nd effort why cheap out nd go with glass
still looks great though

[haulAss or GTFO]

THIS THREAD IS TITS!!!

awesome build!

[full house Mouse]

Good thread I especially liked the cam in the front of the car. My engine runs rough every one says its the wild cam I tried ordering a tame cam that had gone to cam school like people do for teaching there dogs but it was still to rough so I tried your idea and installed it in the front of my car the," full house Mouse" like you did and presto the motor is very smooth but for some reason I can't get it too start! Do you have any ideas what I did wrong ? Some guys here in Asia say I have been here to long and have gone Native maybe that's the reason! I think they are just poor sports.

[langy]

Very droll.

Originally Posted by full house Mouse

Good thread I especially liked the cam in the front of the car. My engine runs rough every one says its the wild cam I tried ordering a tame cam that had gone to cam school like people do for teaching there dogs but it was still to rough so I tried your idea and installed it in the front of my car the," full house Mouse" like you did and presto the motor is very smooth but for some reason I can't get it too start! Do you have any ideas what I did wrong ? Some guys here in Asia say I have been here to long and have gone Native maybe that's the reason! I think they are just poor sports.

[1935Ron]

Un "freakin'' believable.....

[langy]

Car has progressed quite a lot over the last few days, Tom the trimmer has been busy on the seat and we had a seat test the other night.






Tom returned 2 days later with this seat base and a armfull of foam and proceeded to make a hell of a mess cutting and sanding the foam.









Seat position is spot on so Tom is now going to cover the seat back







Doors are not on at the moment as its easier to work without them but this is how it looks so far










sorry for the close pics but the workshop is pretty full at the moment and can't get far enough away.


.

[rat bastad]

Primo work Langy - gotta be one the nicest early 60s roadtsers in the UK wouldnt you say mate?

Rat

[langy]

Thats for others to decide on mate but i really like it

Originally Posted by rat bastad

Primo work Langy - gotta be one the nicest early 60s roadtsers in the UK wouldnt you say mate?

Rat

[60'shotrod]

Damn Steve, that interior is shaping up to be REAL Nice!That final shot is lookin' Bloody KILLER!

Nick.

[surf monkey]

ask steve to tell you what style the seats will be done in without swearing

[69fury]

i've always loved prop alt drives, but is there a trick to getting the alt to "come in"? I thought the "standard" rpm that an internally regulated unit would self-energize, was at least 2,000, if not 2,500 rpm.

If that's the case, what speed do you need to be going to have your shaft rpm high enough to start charging?

or do i have it all wrong?

Love your work, it's top notch!!!

[langy]

I tested this particular alternator and it kicked in as soon as it started to revolve which was i guess about 500rpm, also this one doesn't use a warning light (although it has one) on startup but has a 12v feed to it.

Originally Posted by 69fury

i've always loved prop alt drives, but is there a trick to getting the alt to "come in"? I thought the "standard" rpm that an internally regulated unit would self-energize, was at least 2,000, if not 2,500 rpm.

If that's the case, what speed do you need to be going to have your shaft rpm high enough to start charging?

or do i have it all wrong?

Love your work, it's top notch!!!

[langy]

Panelled the trunk out over the weekend.

A friend from the HAMB donated a couple of rocket shaped trims to the project, originally they were fender skirt trims apparently. Didn't know where to use them so decided they would look cool on the trunk sides.







License plate surround fitted




Chromed and drilled trunk hinges.








I'm a bit undecided whether to use this interior mirror or not ?

[Barn Find T]

Langy -
Thanks for the details Build Thread!! Just AWESOME!
-BFT

[65 impala]

langy great attention to detail nice job

[DeuceDog]

Love it!
Dd

[langy]

Those that wern't keen on the front spreader bar definitly won't like the rear one







Thanks to Jason & Adam helping we got the trunklid fitted and adjusted this evening, Definitly not a 2 man job.

[langy]

Tim i don't know what you mean, Maybe i have Tourettes ???

Originally Posted by surf monkey

ask steve to tell you what style the seats will be done in without swearing

[LarzBahrs]

You have done the most beautiful work on a car that i have ever seen, the attention to detail is God like. When your done you should swing by the oakland roadster show in sunny california, US of A, Because i wana be graced by the presense of this car in person.

[langy]

Thanks, I'm blushing now

Originally Posted by LarzBahrs

You have done the most beautiful work on a car that i have ever seen, the attention to detail is God like. When your done you should swing by the oakland roadster show in sunny california, US of A, Because i wana be graced by the presense of this car in person.

[surf monkey]

i do hope i`ll get a ride in it this summer...with camera of course

[surf monkey]

paul can run behind

[hershambob]

steve lose the langys and rocket 32 off the plate,looks a bit naff to me,if you punch me on monday i will know you dont agree!!!!!bob

[Nick32vic]

Very impressive work and i love your creativity. Its easy to go over the top but your doing a fine job of keeping it tastefull. Love it. OH and thanks for taking the time to post all the pics and stuff.

[langy]

Absolutely Tim, Paul can go in the glovebox

Originally Posted by surf monkey

i do hope i`ll get a ride in it this summer...with camera of course

[4t6ford]

Hey Steve, killer build man! I have a question , what is the steering box you've used? I'm building a 324 Rocket powered model A and am not super happy with my current steering box set-up. Any help much appreciated. Rod.

[langy]

Rebuilt Vega Rod, I find them Ok if filled with grease rather than oil, a friend of mine in the U.S. rebuilt it for me and its very tight with little or no slop at all.
I'm considering a Mavel rack conversion at some point.

Originally Posted by 4t6ford

Hey Steve, killer build man! I have a question , what is the steering box you've used? I'm building a 324 Rocket powered model A and am not super happy with my current steering box set-up. Any help much appreciated. Rod.

[langy]

I didn't buy them Bob

Originally Posted by hershambob

steve lose the langys and rocket 32 off the plate,looks a bit naff to me,if you punch me on monday i will know you dont agree!!!!!bob

[Little Terry]

Keep the pics coming Steve. I really like the effect of the white scoops, sump and firewall.

Looking forward to seeing the T progress too once you've got the 32 finished. No pressure though!

Mark.

[langy]

Not much to show as its been mostly little bits and pieces but here's the hood locking mechanism and the lower hood sides. The sides are split because of the lakes headers, didn't want hood fastners showing from the outside so made up a hidden mechanism that is worked by cables connected to handles under either side of the dashboard.
Alignment pins on each side hold the hoodside aligned while the hooks are held by a strong spring which holds the sides down.

[STEPHEN FIELDS]

amazing quality workmanship

[moter]

Great job!! Thanks for the update

[langy]

Bit more done tonight Fuel tank all painted and fitted






Didn't want a normal filler cap so went with this one, made a flange up and welded to the tank neck, made up a gasket, had hell of a job getting green gasket paper, Only joking just ran a green permanent marker over it.












Special pic for Holmsey

[claymore]

Really like the "Camtastic" rear bumper bar.

[Hot Rod Michelle]

I'm digging all the metal flake and green.

[Lucky Strike]

Whole-E-Crap! I just got through looking at this build thread, and my hearts a beating like a little rabbit! Beautiful!!! Ruller!!!

[langy]

I'm a bit undecided on this panel, Not sure whether to diamond green pleat it or run the bottle green carpet up the inside of the firewall ???

I'm swaying towards trimming it at the moment, better decide quick

[langy]

Thanks to my mate Lawrence a decision has been made, Cheers Law

[langy]

Got my headers painted as its very close to startup, paint is Hycote VHT which i find is the best out there.









Decided to repaint the inside of the cowl vent white, i think it looks better when open.

[cretin]

I just went through this entire thread again, and I love it! I love the detail you have put into this car. While it's not a car I would build, I still LOVE it! Can't wait to see pics of this thing ripping down the road.

[BoulevardBomber]

A true Craftsman in every sense ! I only wished you lived next door , So I could learn from a master.

[langy]

LOL i don't know about that, i make lots of noise according to my neighbour

Originally Posted by BoulevardBomber

A true Craftsman in every sense ! I only wished you lived next door , So I could learn from a master.

[langy]

Well i'm a bit behind with the updates as i've been devoting all the spare time to the build but heres a few pics.

Most of the trimming is now in place but Tom run out of white for the top of the seat back so we are waiting for it to arrive, hopefully it will arrive today as we ordered it a week ago

This is the trunk side panels, Tom made a great job of them, He arrived without the rockets attached as he thought they didn't look quite right but i reassured him and i think they look great, well pleased.





Here's the finished trunk, 2nd pic has the green trunk lights on.







Here's the seat back that is missing the top bit of white









The car is almost done at last.






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[claymore]

Dam looking good almost like a real car. Be nice to hear that bad boy fire up.

[hershambob]

looking good steve,,

[fuel10922]

Awesome build! This '32 is way cool. Everybody has there own opinion, but how about lowering the rear a little more?

[carbon guy]

I think we need some video when you get this baby fierd up. Stunning car, love it.

[Evel]

awwww the light at the end of the tunnel...

looks amazing Langy!!!....muuuuuuuummmm Diamonds...

[52pickup]

mmmmmm flake. Beautiful car. Top notch craftsmanship.

[langy]

Might go a tad higher, don't remember many 60's cars being low ???

Originally Posted by fuel10922

Awesome build! This '32 is way cool. Everybody has there own opinion, but how about lowering the rear a little more?

[Leadsled RnR]

That is nice as hell, I love all the detail. Drive the shit out of it!

[langy]

Well the car didn't make our big show at Billing for a couple of reasons, 1 being that my Strange halfshafts eventually turned up but were 1" short The other i won't go into here as it now don't matter.

Got my Vintique Halogen headlight conversion in the post and seeing as i had been waiting for it started to fit it straightaway, Guess what it didn't fit The bulbs wouldn't even go through the supplied adaptors, the whole thing is a crock of *poo*, Anyways i made my own as i knew i should of done in the first place.
I drilled the 36 Ford reflector which is brass and robbed and pair of headlights of the bulb holders and soldered them in, They now work a treat.










I was going to bring the car out without the hood/side panels but now decided against it as i think it looks better with them so spent the last few evenings getting them primed and masked up, The inside of the hood panels are painted the same white as the firewall so a fair bit of masking was called for



Once masked off they were flaked and lacquered





Need to flat and polish them tomorrow.

[39delux]

It just keeps getting better.

[OilDevil13]

Ive spent the better part of an hour reading through this thread. Im absolutely speechless. You definately inspire me to try harder. What an amazing car. Thank you!

[Stone]

Nice

[langy]

If it inspires another hotrod on the road it makes it all worth the time in my book, thanks for the kind comments

Originally Posted by OilDevil13

Ive spent the better part of an hour reading through this thread. Im absolutely speechless. You definately inspire me to try harder. What an amazing car. Thank you!

[langy]

Well its getting there now, Seat almost finished, just a slight mod to the rear edge in that i'm going to continue the stainless around the back edge, then Tom will pull the cover to suit.








Hood sides painted both sides now, this was a nightmare job to do as when masking off the louvres the tape kept lifting in the corners because of the double curvature and i got green blow through on the white , managed to sort it in the end though

[Mark H]

You havn't got time to sit playing on the computer,get back in the workshop!Looking forward to see this car finished.Nice one,Steve.

[langy]

Waiting for paint to dry Mark

Originally Posted by Mark H

You havn't got time to sit playing on the computer,get back in the workshop!Looking forward to see this car finished.Nice one,Steve.

[langy]

Not much to update the thread with these days as its mostly finished but i've made a few mods to various bits, the ladder bars had the normal type of stiffeners and i never really liked them but couldn't think of anything at the time, recently it came to me in a flash rocket shaped stiffeners, I drew up a shape and sent it to Paul for laser cutting, Paul suggested a 3D type of rocket, Paul sent me these bits which i spent a few hours polishing and assembled together, just need to TIG them by the wings in place tomorrow, I think they came out pretty cool




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