A little elco help needed

[Mikes83ss]

I really want an 78-87 elco but I want to put an 83-88 monte carlo ss nose on It.I'm just wondering before I go tearing one apart what is all involved in the conversion?I know I'll need a complete front cap but will I also heave to change the radiator support to a monte and will I also have to change the doors?All help is welcomed and appreciated.

 

[1979ratrod]

you could just get a choo choo front end and not have to change much

 

[Mikes83ss]

Does anyone repop those front ends?

 

[beermonkey9417]

check craigslist and google choo choo el camino front end. id google it here but my werk comp has the google re-direct virus...

 

[melman109]

If I remember correctly you can pick up a new choo choo front end for under $1,200-$1,500 which is a lot cheaper and eliminates a lot of headache and body work. If you took a front end off a monte you would need the header panel and doors. The body lines on the monte doors will not match the lines on the rear quarters/bed of the Elco. The choo choo front clip mounts to your factory header panel and matches the factory body lines on the el camino hood and fenders. Lauren engineering and honest Charlie's should both sell the conversion kit. You can check opgi as well.

 

[87ttop]

But if u use parts, do u have to change core support

 

[81Regal]

No you don't have to change core supports, difference is made up in the shape of the fenders. The monte nose is around 4" wider than the EC, so the cheapest way will be to get the Honest Charlie's Choo Choo nose

 

[87ttop]

Im getting ready to do this swap but im using parts, I got everything for under 500 bucks

 

[81Regal]

Then yes you will need the doors too, if you are good with welding blend the body line from the fender into the door.

 

[Mikes83ss]

Thanks guys and good lookin out Mel.This is what inspired the topic guys.