So, have not posted much lately, seems there has been a lot going on. Here is the progress: First, I have the car out driving, so that is a big deal to me. With driving, you start working the bugs out. I had a pretty substantial oil leak which was driving me crazy. Started by changing the pan gasket from a traditional dual cork and the crappy 440Source windage tray to a modern all in one system. This worked for most of the leaks, but still had one at the front of the engine. Only things I could figure is the factory cover was flexing too much with the roller cam or the fuel block off was leaking.
To fix these, pulled the fuel block off which looked like it may have caught and flexed on the pump rod hex nut? Tightened the hex nut, flattened the plate and installed a new gasket. For the timing cover, I bought a AR Engineering cover (expensive) and installed it. After a quick driver in the neighborhood, seems the Valdez is fixed.
As for updates and upgrades, what lead to me finding the leak was taking the car to a welder to install the torque boxes, frame connector, roll bar and well up the TTI exhaust. The guy did a bang up job and definitely welds WAY better than I do. I bought and installed the TTi with their bands. This worked well, but had a bit of leaks for the wideband. As for the USCarTool torque boxes and frame supports, well the welder said not the best of pieces, but they worked. Car seems to be a lot more stiff. Also installed 5 point harnesses from Summit. Yes, a bit of overkill, but wife wouldn't ride with with me with lap belts.
Next on the agenda is some electrical gremlins. I think I will be doing a LED taillight upgrade during this time. Also, bought a 2012 5.7 from a manual Challenger. This will be the winter project. Right now scrounging up all the items to drop this in. At this time have the engine, Hemi EFI Gold Box, LS throttle body adapter and flywheel and clutch. A this time, I just want to drop the engine in and get it driving. Down the road I will decide how much HP etc is needed for my driving pleasure. Between now and winter, I will be doing small items, like changing the Areomotive dual pressure regulator and possibly installing an SRT radiator and fan system.
Well that is it, almost 9am here, wife says I can start the car only after then - pesky neighbors
Off to burn some 100 octane - found at one of the local pumps......
CP
