1968 Firebird Update - 5/31/2013

This past Friday was likely my last chance working on the Firebird for a few months.  Our daughter #2 is due within a few weeks, so the project will be put on hold for a bit.  That said, we accomplished MUCH more than I anticipated.  I figured I would work on getting the dash cluster and other accessories removed from the interior, and that would be about it.  Everything came out much easier than I expected, and Scott was already at work under the hood, preparing the engine for removal.  While I was occupied inside the car, I was unaware of how much Scott had accomplished.

Scott had some errands to run, and while gone, I had finished up all I could inside the car.  I saw that the engine really wasn't far from being ready to pull, so figured I may as well finish it up.  I removed the power steering lines, the starter, and engine/trans mount bolts.  Inevitably, I missed a few ground straps and the throttle cable, which were apparent once the engine was on it's way out.

All said and done, we accomplished a ton more than I expected.  When we do get started back on it, we will be neck deep in it.  The rear end will come out, along with the front subframe.  The frame will be blasted, painted, and reassembled.  New body bushing will go in prior to the body being bolted into place, and frame connectors will also be welded into place.

Dash cluster and gauges removed.

Heat and A/C controls removed.

Starter removed.

Last time with an engine for awhile.

Out goes the Pontiac 350/TH350.

The body had a few spots that needed some attention.

My first attempt at body work.  Duct tape works as a solid base, right?  Either way, it seems appropriate at this stage in the game.

This is the spare hood that came with the car.  It's the same stock hood that was on it, but has hood pin holes cut out, for that all out race look.  LOL  We may go with it, or it may give way to a fiberglass hood.  Time and money will dictate that.

 Well, there ya have it.  As I said, we got a lot more done than I had expected.  It will be nice working on a project car with an extra set of hands (and wallet).  It will without a doubt make it a much easier project.  Until next time!