Just a few pics on whats going on with my Camaro. Working on modifing the bumpers. They will be body color when finished. Moved the front up about 1" and moved it in abou 2". Rear also getting the same treatment. Wheels and tires are on, but car sits like a 4x4. Hotchkis is next.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0156.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0155.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0160.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0162.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0163.jpg

NIce. What color is that?

Chrysler Tangerine Pearlcoat or Go Mango based on what they used it on.
(thanks for moving the post)

Damn! We saw an old Mopar that color today and I loved it. A bit darker then SOM. Nice. My 77 was originally orange and i want to paint it a modern orange and that color is on top of the list.

I like the color!!

it looks a lil high. lol lol Just an inch or three?

I like the color!!

it looks a lil high. lol lol Just an inch or three?

Yep, 14" ground clearance at the rockers; how embarassing. The front springs are out of their perches and there are overload shocks on the rear (not my doing).

Another car with Coys, they look good. 17s or 18s?

Putting the rubber bumper guard back on after it's painted?

Another car with Coys, they look good. 17s or 18s?

Putting the rubber bumper guard back on after it's painted?

18X9.5 and 17x8.
Not using the oem rub strip. I have counter sunk all bolts and will use 2" smooth body side moulding instead of rub strip. It's only about 1/4 inch thick rather that 1" like the oem.

Pardon me while I catch up...earlier shots..
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/000_0465.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0133.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0135.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0128.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0137.jpg

That is very impressive!!!!!

That's a real nice color!

Looks great, color is awesome man!!

It Looks like its coming together real nice, keep us posted on your progress:)

Do you have any pics of the bumper mounts & the changes you made?

Do you have any pics of the bumper mounts & the changes you made?
I'll try to post some tonight

Great Looking color !!!

Looks awsome Don. You did a real good job stepping that bumper back.

I got to looking in the garage when I got home and I have the upper grill brand new in black and couple of used in silver. One of these is in real good shape, no breaks or anything. The other has one broken slat. I also have one lower grill used in silver and it is like new. I also have a used center console and brand new door panels if you are interested.

OK, several have asked for pics on bumper mods. See if this makes any sense.
With the bumper removed, unbolt all of the brackets and springs leaving only the two brackets shown in this picture.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0172.jpg
The bracket left on the bumper slides into the bracket shown below that is bolted to the end plate of the frame, (Bumper is now lightweight due to all of those heavy springs are in the trash).
With the bracket unbolted from the car, I used a rotary file in a drill to slot the holes in the end plate moving the bracket up about 1/2" to 3/4". At this point you have to play with it sliding the bumper on and off adjusting until the bumper is level.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0174.jpg
At this point, once the bumper has the tight gap between the top of the bumper and the header panel and is level, slide the bumper in to where you want it and drill a 5/16 hole through both brackets and bolt in with a grade 8 bolt and locknut, (see pic below)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0175.jpg
To eliminate the rub strip (and get another 1/2") use a high speed counter sink bit and bevel the 4 bracket bolt holes to flush the bolts (use 3/8 X 1 1/4 countersunk bolts) and use 2" stick on body side molding (smooth) as shown below.
Be sure and do this step BEFORE final fitment and drilling bracket.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0173.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0178.jpg
Thats it on the front.

For the rear you have to leave all of the springs and brackets in place.
Unbolt the piece shown in the pic below. Notice the stack of spacers on the bracket, they are slid onto the shaft and have a bead welded across them.
Cut the weld with a cut off wheel leaving the end spacer and bolt it all back together. You will have to replace 2 of the carrige bolts on each bracket with shorter bolts. This will pull the rear bumper in around 3/4". Slot the 8 holes in the body as done on the front, level and bolt on.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0176.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0177.jpg

Great work on the bumper! The big bumper cars are getting mo-betta by the day.

Nice work man! I've been toying with the exact same idea on my bumpers; except not quite as extreme as you have done. The ONLY thing I don't like about big bumper cars is that the bumper doesnt hug up to the car like it did in previous years. They only need a 'facelift" to look great IMHO. I was wondering why no one else had done it yet. Looking forward to seeing pics of when it's completed. Very nice work!

Nice pics, thanks.

the go mango car we saw Satureday right before I read this thread:

http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j65/BonzoHansen/Local%20Car%20Shows%20and%20Events/2008/2008-03-01%20AC%20Show/th_IMG_4757Small.jpg (http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j65/BonzoHansen/Local%20Car%20Shows%20and%20Events/2008/2008-03-01%20AC%20Show/IMG_4757Small.jpg)
http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j65/BonzoHansen/Local%20Car%20Shows%20and%20Events/2008/2008-03-01%20AC%20Show/th_IMG_4756Small.jpg (http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j65/BonzoHansen/Local%20Car%20Shows%20and%20Events/2008/2008-03-01%20AC%20Show/IMG_4756Small.jpg)

Nice car , Great color GMO .

Not a lot to look at, but it is progress. Finally painted the last pieces. Bumpers, spoiler, mirrors, lower valance. Now maybe I can make some things happen.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0194-1.jpg

Man, thats going to look wicked with the bumpers body color!!

keep up the great work and keep us posted.

Cant wait till she is done!

Awesome Car !!.. and mechanics DONE before paint.. hey AZ Camaros see this????

Sweet color and great work on the bumpers. Did you paint the front parking light bezel black? I've got an extra set I may try that on.

Sweet color and great work on the bumpers. Did you paint the front parking light bezel black? I've got an extra set I may try that on.
Yea,,satin black. Also reveal moulding, door handles, and lock bezels will be black. Minimal chrome on this one.

Sweet color and great work on the bumpers. Did you paint the front parking light bezel black? I've got an extra set I may try that on.


I may try that parking/indicator light bezel black-out too (mine are losing the chrome finish anyway !), my bumper is body colour and got black headlight buckets also.... !!!

Yea,,satin black. Also reveal moulding, door handles, and lock bezels will be black. Minimal chrome on this one.
I wonder how well paint on the door handles would hold up. Maybe powder coating might hold up better. Hmm....

I wonder how well paint on the door handles would hold up. Maybe powder coating might hold up better. Hmm....

Powder coating holds up extremely well on the door handles.... 15 years without a chip on mine! :D


Great work on the bumpers! The profile almost matches the 78-81 nose when you have its all fitted up.
But..... no "waves" in the urethane! :cool:

I can't wait to see it assembled......

The front bumper is painted and on.
Moved in about 2" and up about 3/4"
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0202.jpghttp://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0203.jpghttp://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0204.jpghttp://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0205.jpg

I see some project g28 in your car. Very nice job up front.

wow!!! nice u guys are making me want a big bumper car

That's exactly what I've been wanting to do to my bumpers. In fact, was under there looking at options yesterday. I'm thinking of moving them in but didn't consider moving them up. Any clearance issues at the front of the fenders or rear qtrs?...i.e. did you need to trim anything off the backside corners of the aluminum bumper? Also, how did you prep the bumpers for paint?
You attached the rubber strips after painting - I'm wondering if they are going to hold or pull the paint off the bumper.

Looks awesome!
you shaved the big bumper down to size so it looks like it belongs there!!

Great Job!

Beautiful car!!! Keep up the good work.

I'm moving my bumpers back now. That looks 10x better. G28 was the first moved back and havent seen anything since.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v157/Orangechilly/TT_tony_pointing.jpg

God I really love that color!!!!!!!! Looks Great

Are you worried about the structural strength of the bumper now that all those extra brackets are gone from the front? Not that I ever plan on hitting anything and the amount of brackets on there from the factory could demolish any car in its sights but if this set-up was in a head-on am I correct that the only pieces taking the impact would be the bolts through those two brackets?

Also, how much weight do you figure you took off there?

That is looking really good, Don. Love that picture of the front. That bumper just flows with the rest of the front end.

Are you worried about the structural strength of the bumper now that all those extra brackets are gone from the front? Not that I ever plan on hitting anything and the amount of brackets on there from the factory could demolish any car in its sights but if this set-up was in a head-on am I correct that the only pieces taking the impact would be the bolts through those two brackets?

Also, how much weight do you figure you took off there?
Yea, I thought of that when I was doing this. The springs and brackets that were removed are the part that was designed to protect the car in a 5 MPH "crash". The only mounting point for all of this is at the end of the frame rails like most other vehicles.
Then I thought about how much protection the 70-73 bumpers offered (not to mention the RS bumperettes) and said what the heck. Also the aluminum bumper is of beefier construction than the steel bumpers on the 70-73 cars so who knows. Hopefully I'll never test this out.
Maybe 50-75 pounds of weight off ?

the bumper looks great!

the bumper really looks great that way. One question though, why didn't fill up the holes and leave the rubber strip off as you're painting it anyway?

Lookin' good! :)

the bumper really looks great that way. One question though, why didn't fill up the holes and leave the rubber strip off as you're painting it anyway?
Personal taste. I felt like the black strip breaks up the height of the bumper. To me it would still look like a painted railroad tie.

Great job, looks good.

I think the black breaks up the front some and is looking really good!

Don your car looks really GREAT!!!!! Good work! You gonna be at Silver Dollar on Sat.?

Don your car looks really GREAT!!!!! Good work! You gonna be at Silver Dollar on Sat.?
Thanks Chris
More than likely I'll be there, if I can get the Impala cleaned up. Kinda been ignoring it working on the Camaro...

Looks great don!!!

I can relate on the needing to clean my ride. I have to get out there tonight and make the Camaro presentable. I hate when I do that.

Marty

Awesome, this thread needs to archived for sure.

The rear is now done. I decided not to raise the bumper up, just moved it in about 3/4 inch. Afraid that if I moved it up that it would be tough to gas up without scratching paint. (could not fold tag down far enough)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0209.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0207.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0208.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0206.jpg

man that looks great totally changed the car for the better

You are an excellent automotive reconstructive surgeon! :D
I can't believe the difference a nose job and fanny tuck makes! :cool:

Man I LOVE Your temporary plate LOOL

it tunred out great! did you spray that in your garage?

Wow great job!!!

Very nice! You've managed to fix what gm screwed up on! You've cleaned up just about everything that's wrong with the big bumper. And that's coming from a big bumper owner!

I've been waiting to see how the rear end turned out...........and perfect!

Thanks guys for all of the positive comments. I'm proud of the way it's turning out myself. When you do it all at home by yourself its really a boost when people admire your ideas/work. Just wish I could find the time to get it finished. I'M READY TO DRIVE IT. I've only had this car for 5 YEARS.

Man i feel you about having to wait to drive it lol. It will only be more enjoyable for the wait.

Where did you pick up the rubber strips? I am diggin this!!

Where did you pick up the rubber strips? I am diggin this!!

Good question. The job turned out great. Car looks awesome!

Is that the same color they use on the new Daytonas? the copper-orange ones with the flat black accents? I was so in love with that color that I bought some.. but then I chickened out.. I might sack up again after seeing this...

Where did you pick up the rubber strips? I am diggin this!!
It's 3M 1 7/8 body side molding. I got mine local (comes in a roll) but there are places online that sell it. I'll try to get the part number.
and Ken.. yep that's the color..Go Mango or Tangerine Pearlcoat used on Chargers, SVT10, and Prowlers.

What a beautiful paint job!

Nice job with the bumber. Thanks for showing and telling us how you did it.

Big bumper Camaros rule.

Took a month or so off, been lazy. Getting my seats out of upholstery jail next week so more coming soon.
This is what I'm facing now...
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0345.jpg

You're doing an excellent job on the "Big Bumper". It's turning out really well. Continue to take your time and do it right... or the way you want to do it. Keep posting your progress.

well, i despise what gm did when they tried to make the camaro front end look like that of a freight train cow shovel but my friend, gm owes you a big thank you! job well done on that bumper! so since the front looks so good, there has to be a way to balance the back? maybe a bit of adjustment of the plate hinges? maybe (know it hurts to hear as paint is done) notching the bumper where the plate would hit? who knows, just letting the creativity flow cause if the result of the rear is anything like the front it would only ad to the wow factor of your work!

pat yourself on the back.:o

oops, btw, when you are done with the lift kit do you have any idea if it would work on a 94 gmc truck? lol, cant wait to see the interior

Wow, that looks amazing. After I get done with the dash repair on my car, I'll definately be taking on restoring my bumpers. I'm glad they still sell the rubber strips as mine definately needs to be replaced!

Sweet car A++ job!!

Just a few pictures outside the shop. Still sits like a 4x4 but that's coming. Working on the inside now still. Did I mention that OER dash pad suck the big one? Well they do. If I can get out of the work, sleep, repeat process I may yet finish this thing...
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0362.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0364.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0363.jpg

Very nice :)

Very Cool Ride!! :bowtie:

RickSSR :cool:

That is really coming along nicely... Is it driveable yet... for the maiden voyage I sat on a milk crate;) :p

Ok, that's it! I'm stealing your methods for closing the gaps on the bumpers! I've thought about doing the same thing, but never applied any ideas on how to go about it as I'm not quite at that step yet. Now that you've done it for me (all of us, I guess)...THANK YOU!

Very nice ride, BTW!

Just wanted to say that, if I manage to get ahold of a big bumper car, I'm pretty blatantly stealing this idea.

Thanks :D

Excellent fab on those bumpers. That looks great. I can't wait to see what you do with the inside. If anyone wouldn't get po'ed can you throw in a pick of your impala? Your pic's were a tease seeing it in the background. Kent

Looking good, Don. I need to get over there and get a look in person.

thats a nice change of face u did their love the appearence

Wow that paint is beautiful!!

Excellent fab on those bumpers. That looks great. I can't wait to see what you do with the inside. If anyone wouldn't get po'ed can you throw in a pick of your impala? Your pic's were a tease seeing it in the background. Kent
At the risk of pissing everybody off...here's my Impala:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0167.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0164.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0169.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0170.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0168.jpg

THAT is beautiful!

Thanks. That is nice!! I like the digital dash. You really have the fab niche. The paint sure shines nice. Thanks Kent

Both of these cars are absolutely fantastic!

A little more progress..Dash install is getting closer. This has been a real pain.
I hope to finish this week and move on to the stereo. Due to budget constraints, I am using the dummy light cluster that was in the car just to get finished, will add a Covans cluster later. I have a billet and black leather Lecara steering wheel that will be the last thing to go on.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0386.jpg
Got 90% of my interior parts back. Using 78 door panels to do away with the plastic bins.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0385.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0387.jpg
Not sure if it will show up very good, but I had all of the plastic headliner trim as well as A & C pillar trim covered with the headliner material.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0389.jpg

[QUOTE=notadirttrack77]At the risk of pissing everybody off...here's my Impala:QUOTE]
Yeah Im pissed!! Pissed that its not mine!! Great job!

Just now seen this post, but man that's a really nice car you have going there. Love the bumpers to!

I laughed out loud when I read you sig. hahaha Us big bumper OWNERS needs lovin to lol

Michael

Cool Impala!...My uncle had bought a brand new blue with white top 64 that I absolutely loved when I was a kid. He kept that car spotless.

Don your cars look amazing!!!!

what rim and tire size are crammed on the back of the impala they look like baloons that are going to float away but other than that nicey nice.

[QUOTE=notadirttrack77]
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0364.jpg Looking great!
I'm finally getting around to doing this on mine, starting with the rear. But I'm keeping the anodized aluminum. bumper is off and all the brackets are apart - ready for blasting and paint. Couple of questions:
Do you think it's possible to recess the bumper more, maybe 1"?
How did you finish the ends of the 3M strips? bevel cut?
I'm assuming that you applied the rubber strips using just the adhesive backing. How is that holding up, especially on the corners?
I'm also thinking of removing 2 of the 'spring leafs' along with all the steel spacers. Then using aluminum stock to bring the bumper out to where I want it. Should save a lot of weight. But I need to look into this a little more.
And lastly, what did you use to grind off the welds - the ones on the inside are right against the big plate- cause I can't get anything in there ?

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v157/Orangechilly/TT_tony_pointing.jpg

Looks Great


x2:eek:

Answered a few of my own questions today:
Do you think it's possible to recess the bumper more, maybe 1"? Probably look funny since the space on the sides would be a lot more than on the rear.
How did you finish the ends of the 3M strips? bevel cut? Still curious, but decided to retain the original strip.
what did you use to grind off the welds - the ones on the inside are right against the big plate- cause I can't get anything in there ? Once i got the everything apart [be-atch] I could get in there. One side done.

Hey, I just finished with my front bumper mod today, and it looks sooo much better. Thanks for all the info you put on here for us. I had to reference this post a few times and got it done in no time. Thanks!!

I'll post pictures when I'm done polishing her up........

I'm stuck! can't separate the shaft on the mounting plate from the tube of the bumper side bracket.@#$%^&*()!
The passenger side came apart with some persuasion from BFH. But the driver side won't budge. Tried several days of PB Blaster, torch and cool, pounding. Nada. :mad:

very cool clean look. I love the custom look but you have to look for it.

I'm stuck! can't separate the shaft on the mounting plate from the tube of the bumper side bracket.@#$%^&*()!
The passenger side came apart with some persuasion from BFH. But the driver side won't budge. Tried several days of PB Blaster, torch and cool, pounding. Nada. :mad:
Steve...
Man I'm sorry. You've been asking away with questions and I have not been around. I just used a regular grinder and somehow got to it all. I do not recall any problems (although it's been a while). 3M molding was bevel cut and has held on tight with no problems. The trick is to counter sink the bumper bolts so that all is smooth. Any other questions that you have, just PM me. I check my email daily.
Don

no prob. I was able to get the shim plates off. But the shaft broke off the plate... probably from heating and cooling it. So I think I'll try without the plates at all, just bolt the leafs directly to the car. I may re-use the shims or make some aluminum stock spacers to bring the bumper out if it looks crappy. So they'll only be 4 bolts holding it on. But I removed about 25 lbs. I should get it installed tomorrow.
And I'm never going to use that dangerous bumper jack/slot to lift the car. Don't trust it now, Never trusted it before. I think it's amusing that Ralph Nader's safety crusade led to the (5 mph) big bumpers and then GM creates a 2 inch slot and pole for us to lift the car with :rolleyes:

A few new pictures. Dash is in, Fat Mat installed, power windows and wiring done.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0393.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0391.jpg
Could not stand it...Had to stick a couple of pieces in and look.
Getting closer!

Man you are making me want to trash my 81 and go get me another 77 !!!!! Your car is looking awesome! Keep up the good work and remember to post more pics.

At the risk of pissing everybody off...here's my Impala:



yep, I'm pissed.
.
.
.
.
..
.
.
.
Pissed that it's not in my garage. NICE!

Looks real good, keep at it :)

Moved in 1.25". front is next.
http://www.nastyz28.com/forum/gallery/data/584/RB_024a.jpg

http://www.nastyz28.com/forum/gallery/data/584/RB_022a.jpg

http://www.nastyz28.com/forum/gallery/data/584/RB_020a.jpg

Looks good! (I guess I've started something)
Post up the front when you get it done. Big bang for the buck, well, less than a buck.
Don:D

well...$20 cause I used all new nuts and bolts (assortment of grade 8 and stainless steel) :)
Yes, great idea. And thanks for sharing. They look like part of the design now (even more so when body color), rather than something just stuck on.

Your guys cars look great.
I got a question............after moving your bumpers, did you still use your bumper fillers? or was there no room for them?
Thanks
Guy

The bumper just slides over the top of the fillers. I had to make 1 small cut in the license plate corner area. I'll post some pics later. My fillers are original and a bit warped, so now the bumper hides most of that. I thought moving them in this much would make the space between the qtrs and bumper too big. But as the bumpers move forward they get closer to the lower quarters due to the shape.

The bumper just slides over the top of the fillers. I had to make 1 small cut in the license plate corner area. I'll post some pics later. My fillers are original and a bit warped, so now the bumper hides most of that. I thought moving them in this much would make the space between the qtrs and bumper too big. But as the bumpers move forward they get closer to the lower quarters due to the shape.
Cool, thanks

And on the front, If you move the bumper up as well as in you don't need the front fillers. Mine is in so far that you can't use them even if you want to.
By the way Guy, your project continues to amaze me.
Here is an older picture . Not sure if I posted this one, it shows no room for the front filler.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0160.jpg

You could remove the center filler piece. I guess it depends how much you move the bumper in. But you still see the corner fillers.
When I first slid the bumper on, it buckled the filler by the license plate...
http://www.nastyz28.com/forum/gallery/data/584/center_filler_trim_rear_drv.jpg

It's difficult to see, but I slit the plastic on an angle and folded it. Then smoothed the corner with a razor blade.
http://www.nastyz28.com/forum/gallery/data/584/center_filler_trim_rear_drv_modified.jpg

And on the front, If you move the bumper up as well as in you don't need the front fillers. Mine is in so far that you can't use them even if you want to.
By the way Guy, your project continues to amaze me.
Here is an older picture . Not sure if I posted this one, it shows no room for the front filler.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0160.jpg
Thankyou

the front looks good, I do not have front fillers anyway lol and my back fillers are all warped.

You could remove the center filler piece. I guess it depends how much you move the bumper in. But you still see the corner fillers.
When I first slid the bumper on, it buckled the filler by the license plate...
http://www.nastyz28.com/forum/gallery/data/584/center_filler_trim_rear_drv.jpg

It's difficult to see, but I slit the plastic on an angle and folded it. Then smoothed the corner with a razor blade.
http://www.nastyz28.com/forum/gallery/data/584/center_filler_trim_rear_drv_modified.jpg
I can see it
so I need my rear fillers but not the fronts.

OK..A little progress. Dash is complete, ( just thought it was a week ago). Roof rail and door weatherstrip is on. Converted to power windows, switches mounted in the console. Carpet is IN.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0395.jpg
Back seat, package shelf (deluxe to hide speakers), CHECK.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0394.jpg
Headliner & trim, DONE!
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0396.jpg
THE PILE OF PARTS IS GETTING SMALLER!:D :D :D

Looks like you have the interrior well on the move and looking good too.

Cool Don Hurry up and get it done so you can come up here and help me with mine.

Looks good man, you are getting there.

So these 2 peices are not welded together at any point. just rusted together?- want to be sure before I wack them apart with the hammer
The bracket left on the bumper slides into the bracket shown below that is bolted to the end plate of the frame http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0172.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0174.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0175.jpg

Nope, they seemingly serve no purpose. One just slides over the other, no shock absorber like the other GMs of the day. Strange. BFH away....


This orange 77 looks awesome.

ok. got them separated. one side was easy, the other needed a little pursuading. Moved them so they're 3/4" shorter, drilled a hole, and fastened with a bolt (perpendicular to the bumper just in case the nut ever falls off...it can't come apart). So by removing the springs (about 3/4" thick and shortening the pipes by 3/4", I've recessed the bumper 1 1/2"....but not really. I'll use equal spacers on each side to get the bumper back out to the position I want. I chose to do this instead of using slots in the pipes.
Next dilema...
With the bracket unbolted from the car, I used a rotary file in a drill to slot the holes in the end plate moving the bracket up about 1/2". Am I misunderstanding? In order to do this the top hole on the end plate needs to be 1/2" lower (closer to the pipe). Can't do this, there's not enough room for the bolt head against the pipe section. (I'm using 7/16" bolts, but even with a 5/16" bolt the head would hit)
http://www.nastyz28.com/forum/gallery/data/584/bumper_bracket1.jpg

beautiful job laying the paint. what is on the floor? looks like alot of sanding dust. did you leave it intentionally or was it an oversight?

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0137.jpgthis pic, sorry

Sorry, not been around for awhile...have been trying to finish this thing.
Steve, I slotted the plate at the end of the frame as well as the bumper mounting bracket to get the bumper up and tight, sorry if that was not clear.

I only used the corner of the fillers, cut them off and tossed all but the corners because they contacted the bumper.

The stuff on the floor in the paint room shot is overspray from the basecoat.

Ah yes. I was thinking that's the only way to get it raised up that far. I now have the bumper recessed and back on the car. It's recessed the same amount as the rear, but it doesn't look like much of a change. I think raising it up will look better.

OK.. more progress. The car is 95% finished. I have finally been able to drive it and it drives PERFECT. A few little minor adjustments were all that was needed.
The only thing left to do is lower the rear and some detail work.

Here's some pics...Let me know what you think...be honest, I'm a big boy.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0407.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0408.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0409.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0412.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0410.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0411.jpg

Looks fantastic. White seats...you are a brave man LOL

Looks very nice
I like the white door panels with the black arm rests :)

i like it. i had the exact interior combo when my car was finished the first time, except instead of black and white it was dark blue and white. but my seats, headliner, and door panels were white. everything else was dark blue. ah the memories....



mike
:bowtie:

To be brutally honest......Whats not to like. Looks great. More pics I say. Yes, that is what I don't like about it...Not enough pics!.

I had not been a lover of the big bumper cars but you have shown me the light

.......SSSHHHHHAAAAWWWIIINNNNGGGG.......that is beautiful!:bowtie:

Very nice. Congratulations.

As Brooksman9 said, the only thing I don't like is we NEED/WANT more pics!!!!!!!

any new updates? ive got my front off and ready to be tucked, and i was going to do the rear but ive got a whole new rear fanny tuck i'm going to be trying.

if anyone is curious, the whole rear bumper assembly weights 92 lbs :eek: i couldnt take it apart in pieces cuz everything was rusted and shot, so it was REAL fun getting it off by myself. i recomend just taking off the 4 main bolts that hold on the big plates, and dealing with the bumper while its on the ground. plus one bolt was already loose, and the other one was missing so i only had two to take out which made my job easier lol

You have the best big bumper car IMO, that is sweet, and the white/black interior is choice!

You painted your scuff plates!!! Damn, I thought that was an original idea of mine!! I came up with it when I installed brand new and expensive door sill plates on my old Camaro. After a week of driving I noticed that they were all scratched up and I said "my scuff plates are all scuffed!!!" I'm going to paint a junkyard set with some POR 15 or something on my next car.

...I'm going to paint a junkyard set with some POR 15 or something on my next car.
That's what I did. They still got a few chips in them though.

You put your foot into that one my friend. I have to ask though, why did you leave the armrests on the door black?

Alright Don now you can come up and help me. LOOKS GREAT!!!!!!

That car is beautiful. Great job! You said the OER dash pad sucks??? Looks great to me. What problems did you have with it?

liked the wheels so much I wanted them,:crazy: not to copy but.... what brand?:crazy:

I don't if i could be brave, but I saw on muscle car where they trimmed about 1/4" on each side which made sides closer and looked cool

Man your car looks awesome. Not sure I like the black arm rests but thats about it. Beatiful work. It's not easy to get to where you are Congrats. Love the Imp too. Especially like the slot in the front seat.

liked the wheels so much I wanted them,:crazy: not to copy but.... what brand?:crazy:
From post #8; Coys 18X9.5 and 17x8.
http://www.coyswheel.com/coys.html

OK you said be honest, I'm a big boy and I can take it. The only thing the car needs now are two hinge covers for the seats and plastic covers over the seat tracks.

your car is beautiful:bowtie:

glad i found this post today,car is off for paint in 3weeks..dude,your car is awesome..never seen a big bumper car i liked more..i have got to get busy and get the bumpers off and do the mods before paint..thanks for all the info and pics..denny...http://s402.photobucket.com/albums/pp106/496dh/

Been out of pocket for awhile, haven't checked in...
FIRST... Thanks for all of the positive comments
SECOND....Yeah the car is still not finished, lots of little detail yet to do.
THIRD... I will post more pics, wanted to get finished first. Have been working on a Buick GSX project for a friend and sucked up all of my spare time.
FOURTH...Have got questions about body side molding used on the bumpers.
I got mine from a local auto paint store, but here is a link.
http://www.customautotrim.com/products/moldings/body_1_1eights.htm
http://secure.terrysautopaint.com/viewProduct.php?productID=PT.33-122&from_search=1
I can't remember the width so measure first, although I think it was 1 7/8 inch wide. (I'm at work and not around the car)
Thanks again
Don

i wanted to put the 17x8 all around and wanted to know tire size. did you try other sizes?

I hadn't checked this thread in a long time. All I can say is that your car has turned out great.

Keep up the good work!

B

Wow I am a newcomer to this thread. You did an amazing job making a big bumper car (which I like anyway) look so much better. Really really nice job moving those bumpers in

i just started today moving in the front bumper,not to big a deal.but one frame bolt broke loose and spun trying to get it off.only got 27# of weight off so far.i am going to take off the factory rubber strip even though it is in good shape and do the trim molding deal.that makes the bumper a 1/2 shorter.post some pics when im done with the back,it looks really heavy.i was going to paint them body color,to late now.. denny

Looks awesome!

Did my front bumper today and what a huge differance!

Looks like this is cathin' on!!!!!!!

when I had the front end off to do the sub frame The idea crossed my mind and I looked at a few things but by the time my motor was done I just wanted to drive the damn thing.Your thread confirmed a few of my ideas and took thae fear out of it so I dove in.Your car truely is gorgeous!

OMGosh, your car is beautiful. Awesome job!! you need to show some more pictures like glamour shots in front of mountains or a waterfall or a building.
What did you treat your chrome bumpers with prior to painting so the paint wont flake off??

Strip the bumpers with Eastwood anodize remover. Heres a link.
http://www.eastwoodco.com/jump.jsp?itemID=18807&itemType=PRODUCT
Make sure they are sprayed with an Acid etch or Epoxy primer over the bare aluminum.
Here is a few more pics. No glamor shots, I'm not a photographer.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0465.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0466.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0467.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0468.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0469.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0470.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0471.jpg

Pics look great!
Under the hood looks saweeeeet!

thats a bad motor scooter you have there.i just did my bumpers,thanks for the pics,they helped alot..denny http://S402.photobucket.com/albums/pp106/496dh/

Been several months of nothing but driving, but since I last posted I have lowered the rear 1 1/2 inches. shot a couple of pics and thought I'd share.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0505.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0504.jpg

Stance looks great!

Thanks. yours is gonna be a killer! My hat is off to you on that one.

Thanks. yours is gonna be a killer! My hat is off to you on that one.
Thank you :o

beautiful man. I got mine out of the garage today and this thread got me even more pumped up

Your Camaro is KILLER!! Simply beautiful :) I just saw this thread for the 1st time.

Your Camaro is KILLER!! Simply beautiful :) I just saw this thread for the 1st time.
Thanks a lot. I'm REALLY enjoying it.

great looking big bumper car.

What big bumper,I don't see it:crazy:

Don your car looks AWESOME!!!

What big bumper,I don't see it:crazy:
mission accomplished

Don your car looks AWESOME!!!
Thanks Chris,,,now I want a picture of it parked next to the green one...hurry up!

Thanks Chris,,,now I want a picture of it parked next to the green one...hurry up!
That would look sooooo cool!!!

I have been following this thread from the start. I gotta tell you that when you first posted it, my car wasn't anywhere near the point to start thinking about bumpers. But I knew someday......... So I printed everything out and put it away for future reference. Well that someday is here, only thing I'm doing different from you is I'm chroming the bumpers. I'm kinda old school and love shiny stuff. I'm not sure how mine will compare to yours, painted bumpers vs chrome bumpers but we'll find out shortly. Either way the bumper mods really change the look for the better. Hopefully, in a few weeks body work will be done, car will be painted and we'll see. Thanks for putting this up, I hope my car turns out half as good as yours. If that happens I'll be satisfied.

That is awesome!!!! Love the color.......what kind of wheels are those?

I have been following this thread from the start. I gotta tell you that when you first posted it, my car wasn't anywhere near the point to start thinking about bumpers. But I knew someday......... So I printed everything out and put it away for future reference. Well that someday is here, only thing I'm doing different from you is I'm chroming the bumpers. I'm kinda old school and love shiny stuff. I'm not sure how mine will compare to yours, painted bumpers vs chrome bumpers but we'll find out shortly. Either way the bumper mods really change the look for the better. Hopefully, in a few weeks body work will be done, car will be painted and we'll see. Thanks for putting this up, I hope my car turns out half as good as yours. If that happens I'll be satisfied.
well written and well said. You ought to be PROUD DON!!!!!

I have been following this thread from the start. I gotta tell you that when you first posted it, my car wasn't anywhere near the point to start thinking about bumpers. But I knew someday......... So I printed everything out and put it away for future reference. Well that someday is here, only thing I'm doing different from you is I'm chroming the bumpers. I'm kinda old school and love shiny stuff. I'm not sure how mine will compare to yours, painted bumpers vs chrome bumpers but we'll find out shortly. Either way the bumper mods really change the look for the better. Hopefully, in a few weeks body work will be done, car will be painted and we'll see. Thanks for putting this up, I hope my car turns out half as good as yours. If that happens I'll be satisfied.
WOW...thanks. I want to see your results. The chrome should look great, I love the old school stuff too.

That is awesome!!!! Love the color.......what kind of wheels are those?
They are Coys C-5 gray center..17x8 front, 18x9.5 on the back.

Super nice looking and what about adding a front spoiler ?
Mine are the original black bumpers and wondering what it would look like all in black !! I'm thinking it would look pretty nasty! Now, I just have to get gutsy and do it.... lol

That car is certainly BEAUTIFUL!

VERY NICE!!!:bowtie:

NIce job.

Thanks again guys, and as to the front spoiler question....too low to do that.

You've got her sitting just right and the look you've created doesn't miss a spoiler! cheers !!

Looks way better lowered in the rear!! Nice ride :bowtie:

WOW amazing ride Great mod on the bumpers!!
I just painted mine today so i just added one point more to my To do list..

I'm going to tuck mine in this summer now. I've fell in love with the look.

I got inspired by your car, man! Take a look at mine and let me know what you guys think...
10454

10455

This one is my favorite so far.
10456

Welcome aboard sandiego74. Your first two pics don't show up. Host them on a site like photobucket and them link the image code in your post. Nice looking car, I'd like to see more pictures of it. Maybe start a progress thread if you are working on something.

+1 I think a project progress thread is in order, esp since it's another BIG BUMPER!

Here is the link to my car's progression. Thanks brooksman9 for helping me get used to this site. Really appreciate it.

http://www.nastyz28.com/forum/showthread.php?t=181177

Here is a concept of a modded 74.

http://image.camaroperformers.com/f/33808215/camp_1006_01_o+1974_chevy_camaro+left_side.jpg

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa184/thunderstruckracing_photos/camaro/camp_1006_01_o1974_chevy_camaroleft_side.jpg

Doesn't look bad but I still like my big bumper. Would be interesting to really see one in person done right.

Here is a concept of a modded 74.

http://image.camaroperformers.com/f/33808215/camp_1006_01_o+1974_chevy_camaro+left_side.jpg

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa184/thunderstruckracing_photos/camaro/camp_1006_01_o1974_chevy_camaroleft_side.jpg


I would keep the big bumpers and add two round lights in the upper grill ( sort of like the late model mustangs do)and do the bumper tuck. I also have a Cow catcher or IROC spoiler to add to the bumper and want Basset Nascar wheels like I have on my 92 454SS wannabee truck. Plus I can get the Basset wheels in any backspacing.

That is sweet........+++on the Bassett

Chrysler Tangerine Pearlcoat or Go Mango based on what they used it on.
(thanks for moving the post)

That looks really close the the color I plan to use. Got the idea from a mitsubishi eclipse.

M03 Rotor Glow Prl

I will admit - this car looks really awesome. The "only" thing that bothers me... is the large gaps left behind under the front bumper to the outsides of the lower grill from it being raised. I'm thinking if I did this to my bumpers, (which I'm considering) I'd try to figure a way to maybe add fiberglass to raise the leading edge of the lower valance where them gaps are = up a few inches to get rid of them gaps. Anything is possible after seeing what can be done to these bumpers. Looks really great!!! I also wonder if the bumpers can be chopped/nipped/tucked to make them maybe smaller and wrap around the body better. Not sure if it can be done.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0465.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/hotredimpala/100_0468.jpg

Nice very nice

I will admit - this car looks really awesome. The "only" thing that bothers me... is the large gaps left behind under the front bumper to the outsides of the lower grill from it being raised. I'm thinking if I did this to my bumpers, (which I'm considering) I'd try to figure a way to maybe add fiberglass to raise the leading edge of the lower valance where them gaps are = up a few inches to get rid of them gaps. Anything is possible after seeing what can be done to these bumpers. Looks really great!!! I also wonder if the bumpers can be chopped/nipped/tucked to make them maybe smaller and wrap around the body better. Not sure if it can be done.

That car does look great! There is a way to tuck the front bumper, not sure how they did it but I think they just shortened the bumper supports. Here is the thread I found- http://www.nastyz28.com/forum/showthread.php?t=210881&highlight=bumper+mods

The springs are removed and the bumper is raised for the normal tuck... but what I was referring to is cutting out sections of the bumper itself to bring it in closer around the corners of the car. (Looks like it was done on that red camaro in the link you provided.) But, also fill in the gaps somehow that are left behind where the lower valance would meet the bottom of the bumper.

Oh okay I see what you mean. Mine has the same problem. There is about a 2in gap between the bottom of the bumper and the top of the lower valance and lower grille. I was thinking of a way to fix it, and couldn't think of anything besides a lot of fiberglass work, and possibly cutting up a normal grille to make a larger lower grille to fit the gap also. Anyway let us know if you figure something out!

I will... I really dig the tucked bumper look... I would just have to do something about the gaps there. I think I'm going to try to build that area of the lower valance up with fiberglass. I have to repair a crack in my valance anyway, so I might as well try it. I'll post pics of what I do when I do it on my build thread.

Doesn't look bad but I still like my big bumper. Would be interesting to really see one in person done right.

If you compare what I'm doing and the '74 below they are pretty similar. Except I have two supercharger intakes where the head lights are.

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa184/thunderstruckracing_photos/camaro/camp_1006_01_o1974_chevy_camaroleft_side.jpg

http://img861.imageshack.us/img861/9597/sdc12963.jpg

http://imageshack.us/m/41/2107/sdc12935g.jpg

http://img594.imageshack.us/img594/713/sdc12944w.jpg

http://img545.imageshack.us/img545/4918/sdc12969f.jpg

http://img35.imageshack.us/img35/2195/sdc12975c.jpg

"Nottadirttrack77" I don't mean to hi jack your build but I just love that '74 rendering so much I had to let you all know that I've been running around with a very similar set up since the early '80s!

Ok..The gap below the bumper did bother me when I first put all of the pieces together, but the valence was already painted. So right now it's kinda one of those to hell with it things. Really it doesen't stand out and slap you in the face, I guess you could section the valence ends about 2 inches. Maybe when I break it (car is low) I'll come up with something:D

Stick with what you are doing. It looks correct and stock. What I'm trying to do with no skills is insanely difficult. Here's my first rough draft.

http://img192.imageshack.us/img192/4338/sdc12986m.jpg
http://img851.imageshack.us/img851/7853/sdc12984.jpg
http://img838.imageshack.us/img838/5479/sdc12994.jpg
http://img41.imageshack.us/img41/4471/sdc13003j.jpg

If you compare what I'm doing and the '74 below they are pretty similar. Except I have two supercharger intakes where the head lights are.

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa184/thunderstruckracing_photos/camaro/camp_1006_01_o1974_chevy_camaroleft_side.jpg

http://img861.imageshack.us/img861/9597/sdc12963.jpg

http://imageshack.us/m/41/2107/sdc12935g.jpg

http://img594.imageshack.us/img594/713/sdc12944w.jpg

http://img545.imageshack.us/img545/4918/sdc12969f.jpg

http://img35.imageshack.us/img35/2195/sdc12975c.jpg

"Nottadirttrack77" I don't mean to hi jack your build but I just love that '74 rendering so much I had to let you all know that I've been running around with a very similar set up since the early '80s!
No problem from me, it's about making improvments on 74-77 cars. By the way I like what you are doing.

Thanks for the great idea!!!! I could not get it as high as I wanted but its good for now. Removed anodize and polished.

before
http://i589.photobucket.com/albums/ss333/jammasterj787/camaro3.jpg

After
http://i589.photobucket.com/albums/ss333/jammasterj787/camarobumper.jpg
http://i589.photobucket.com/albums/ss333/jammasterj787/camarobumper2.jpg

Nice looking car Jeremy. Welcome aboard

Well, as much as I hate to say it, it is up for sale. Several projects going that need funding. Hate to see it go, but enjoyed building and owning it...

http://www.racingjunk.com/Camaro/2730280/1977-Camaro-Super-Nice-2nd-gen-show-winner.html

Sorry to hear you're selling! It's a great looking car and I appreciate the bumper mod How-To guide. I hope to do that to my bumpers soon :cool: