Start of a car

[Robert Swartz]

The old saying about a "journey of 1000 miles begins with the first step" is finally about to become our motto. This past weekend, the 1979 Firebird finally came into our official possession. Now the work really begins.

I know we've batted around the merits of buy versus build and debated cost as well. Be all that as it may, this is going to be done. Here is my game plan.

I'm going to pull the doghouse. Then clean and paint the front end. Rebuild it with a bunch of Global West parts. In addition add a set of Moroso front springs. While I'm doing this, be a good time to put aluminum bushings under the body.

Next step, put in subframe connectors and add an 8 point roll bar. Then a set of Cal-Tracs and split mono leafs. Rebuild the 10 bolt rear end with a good spool, axles, gear and a girdle or cover. Rebuild the brakes front and rear. Add shocks. A fuel cell, plumb and wire everything. Put a drivetrain in and we're ready to go.

Sounds easy, I know it will be alot more involved. Hopefully the day will come when I can show up at a race and not just be another message board warrior. If anyone has any advise or alternatives, I'm open to listen.

Robert Swartz