BUILD THREAD 78 Monte Carlo "Infidel"

[smokybob]

Hi everyone, I'm new to this forum and this will be my second build. My first was a 63 Impala that i didn't get to finish. Had to sell it when the housing bubble blew up in 08. Im a disabled vet with PTSD, working on cars is therapeutic for me. I hope that explains why i chose this car. It needs a resurrection just like me. The body on this car looks very good, except for some small patches of rust, they will have to be cut out. Right now I'm cutting out some rust on the roof, on both sides. The firewall needs some patches and the passenger fender. I paid $500 for the car, no engine or trans, the hood did not come with the car.(I NEED ONE). Interior needs a complete resto. I have the original bucket seats and rear seat (need new covers badly). Carpet is ruined, haven't pulled it up yet to inspect the floorboards for rust. Since the carpet is coming out, i think dynamat and the dynaliner is good idea to install. Im thinking of either going with a 350 crate with the FAST EFI kit or a used LS. Right now I'm focusing on the body and then the interior. If anyone can offer insight as far as tips, tricks, websites with 78 MONTE parts.

 

[SoFloG]

Thanks for your service. That green is nice. We like pics here! Are you in Florida?

 

[smokybob]

I am in Jacksonville, fl I really like the green as well, i would like to match it if i can.

 

[L92 OLDS]

I also am an Infidel. Looks like a great project to keep you busy. Thanks for your service

 

[smokybob]

Respect Brother

 

[Opie Knievel]

Welcome to the forum and thank you for your service!

That's a good looking Monte to start with. I love that color. Do you know what you want the car to do when you get done? Drag racing, autocross, cruiser etc.....?

You'll find lots of useful information and friendly car guys here. Welcome aboard! Oh we love pics. Keep 'em coming.

 

[smokybob]

At the moment I envision a weekend cruiser/PTdriver. I am going to be installing an adjustable air ride suspension, adjustable shocks. QA1 pro touring controls arms in the front, UMI performance arms in the rear. I want to pull the frame and swap out the frame bushings for Energy Suspension poly bushings. Upgrade all the steering parts to Hotchkiss, 4 wheel disc Baer SS4 Plus brakes. Stainless brake lines. Upgrade the steering box to a lower ratio, for better handling. I haven't decided on an engine yet, i could so many different things. I want to get a Currie 9in rear end. Sorry for all that, i guess something along the lines of badass street performance.

 

[Opie Knievel]

At the moment I envision a weekend cruiser/PTdriver. I am going to be installing an adjustable air ride suspension, adjustable shocks. QA1 pro touring controls arms in the front, UMI performance arms in the rear. I want to pull the frame and swap out the frame bushings for Energy Suspension poly bushings. Upgrade all the steering parts to Hotchkiss, 4 wheel disc Baer SS4 Plus brakes. Stainless brake lines. Upgrade the steering box to a lower ratio, for better handling. I haven't decided on an engine yet, i could so many different things. I want to get a Currie 9in rear end. Sorry for all that, i guess something along the lines of badass street performance.

Cool. I dig it. That's basically what I want. A badass street car that's fast, handles great and stops great. I'm not really concerned with looks. I like the sleeper effect. Your car though, it looks good. Reminds me of UMI's Green Machine. Check it out. Same body style you have. It's a duller green though. They've got it running road courses and autocrossing. I'm sure they could give you some inspiration.

 

[ZZ4CutlaSS]

Love the color....good luck with the build!

 

[Bar50]

Thanks for protecting our way of life.

Looks like a great solid start. I would say let your budget be your guide. Make it go first, then start on surgery after, so you can enjoy it along the way and keep motivated. I am a fan of old school carbed V8s personally, but, that is because I don't like having my hands tied by a tuner. That, and lets be honest, its a cheaper start.