Woodfin's SS GT/TB construction series

[Dragsinger]

Chief,

Yes, 90 days will bring very good progress. I look forward to finish welding everything, cleaning up the ragged edges, pressure washing and painting. Then it will look "Super"

[Dragsinger]

This week we turn our attention to the front section. Up to this point most photos and text have explain building the rear four link and related items.

While waiting for some rear axles and hardware we begin working over the front end.

With each washing the appearance improves. When everything is completed and we will race ready all will be clean, shinny and looking good.

Paint goes on the front frame section and suspension parts very soon.

Since this class buildup requires the front frame and suspension to remain mostly OE the work here goes much quicker. No re-engineering and agonizing over modifications.

It will get a set of Bell 2" lowered spindles plus new bushings modified for free movement. More about that soon.

These photos some some general shots of cab and frame cleanup work

[Dragsinger]

Even though the engine is almost completed I removed it for better access while cleaning and painting.

The heads are especially trick pieces showing the new chain on stud design, I bought these heads from C J Whittless. They look to have about an 80 degree valve angle but it may just be because the valve seats and guides are worn out.

[Dragsinger]

You will not see rusted parts much longer. One of my painter friends will begin spraying soon.

[Little Chief]

I had the same problem with parts from them on the 50 Olds stocker. They sent me a omobile cam for a 382.

[Dragsinger]

Chief,

In the glory days C J Whittless was a leader in cams and heads. But using a bench grinder to produce cams finally took it's toll.

The chain on stud heads posted above have wooden valve guides. When worn you soak the heads in water for three days and rehone [or whittle] back to size.

[Dragsinger]

Several times in the previous text I said " We are all the way down now. From this point the re-assembly will be moving forward."

I was wrong !

While the following photos may seem to be backward movement it is in reality the result of forward progress. After weeks of thought, measuring, planing, the design is well thought out. So, removing the cab allows even more easy access toward completion.

Welding will be completed, more outriggers and bracing, cab to frame mounts beefed up for roll bar mounting. Then final cleaning and painting.

UPS sent a email showing the axles, spool and other hardware in route from Strange. Now the housing can be completed and gears set up.

[Dragsinger]

For a stiff old man anything what positions the work at a comfortable height is a good thing.

All systems are poised for a round of welding and reinforcing outriggers. Check back soon.

[Dragsinger]

An interesting comparison;

12 bolt 3.08 gear vrs 12 bolt 6.00 gear

The Super 10 power plant with Hettler heads and intake will spin about 8600 at the finish line O what a sweet song!

[Dragsinger]

Welding, when it is good, it is good

I have been saving up the finish welding duties. Most joints of the rear section had enough weld to to be stable but mostly not finished anywhere. Yesterday the MIG vibrations began building toward a heated climax.

This morning with MIG gun in hand I began completing the joints. It was a good morning. Wire feeding smoothly, Argon flowing at the correct rate, eyes clear, that "sound" just right

Whew, what a relief. While not finished it is well on it's way.