... PICTURE SET CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE CLICK->
All the interior floor pans are replaced. Wow! That is a lot of work! CLICK->
The panel seams were sealed and everything was primed. CLICK->
Here the interior of the car has been painted. This looks new! CLICK->
The interior and top is masked off for painting the exterior. CLICK->
The dash area is detailed. This looks 100% better than before. CLICK->
Meanwhile work starts on the frame half. The rear cross-member was not useable and a replacement was acquired from Frank’s Pontiac Parts in California. Many parts were found on eBay and some at Carlisle and Hershey swap meets. CLICK->
Joe adds, "After sandblasting and painting, the frame/suspension/steering/rear end were re-assembled with rebuilt or new components. We had to remove the Chevy motor mounts that had been welded to the front cross member; the car most recently been powered by a small-block Chevy. The rear end was built by Danny’s Transmission in Windsor with a gear set from Drive Train Specialists in Warren, MI. Most of the suspension, brake and fuel system components came from Ames Performance. The fuel tank is from Qantas." CLICK->
The body is back on the frame. The front clip is reinstalled. CLICK->
Joe continues, "The car was painted with poly base/clear in the original Nordic Blue. The Ivory vinyl top was installed by Paul from The Trim Shoppe in Windsor." CLICK->
Can you see the car coming back to life? The GTO has been transported back to Joe's home for re-assembly. CLICK->
Awesome. Vacuum Actuated Exhaust (VOE). CLICK->
Joe's set of Rally II wheels are all ready for rubber. CLICK->
It's done! Joe comments, "I registered the car to be judged in the 'Concours - Restored' category at the 2009 GTOAA Nationals. First time out, the car was judged at the 'Silver' level. The tough question is: Should I drive it or spend the time and effort to get it to 'Gold'?" CLICK->
Nordic Blue 1968 GTO hardtop, front end view. CLICK->
Close-up of the grille and fixed headlight set. PICTURE SET CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE ...
Here's a comment from a recent visitor...
Says Victor in the UK - "Popped in today...first time I've had a wander round your site. Over here in blighty GTOs are few and far. Nice site, easy to navigate and lots of GOOD QUALITY content. Top show chaps keep up the good work."
