Landracing Forum
Bonneville Salt Flats Discussion => Build Diaries => Topic started by: gkabbt on December 17, 2011, 09:10:01 AM
-
Hi All,
With the several responses I have given in SteveM's Rampage build diary, I have had several emails and a PM requesting pictures of my Rampage so here begins my build diary.
Name is Gregg Adams from NC. I have been going to Maxton for 8 years and once to Bonneville in 2009 and the bug finally bit hard.
I picked up this 1983 Dodge Rampage in 2009 and have been slowly getting it ready for F/BMMP. Work on the truck came to a complete halt earlier this year when we found out that Maxton was ending and did not know where we were going to run. I have been very spoiled in that Maxton is only 2 hours from my house. Now that we have a new home in Wilmington, albeit 9 hours away, work is back on and I hope to have it completed by the middle of the year. I am very please with the work that my chassis did with the exception of not patching the holes in the floor and with that I am scheduled to bring it to Rod Crafters (the folks that built Charles Venables Vicky and Stude) the second week in January for body work and some other things.
I have had many email discussions / questions with several officials of the SCTA about the Rampage being legal for MMP and they all assured me it is.
Please let me know what you think (be gentle LOL) .
So without further ado, here is my Rampage:
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/84.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/1.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/2.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/3.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/4.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/5.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/6.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/7.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/8.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/9.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/10.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/11.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/12.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/13.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/14.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/15.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/16.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/17.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/18.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/19.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/20.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/21.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/22.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/23.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/24.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/25.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/26.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/27.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/28.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/29.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/30.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/31.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/33.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/34.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/35.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/36.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/37.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/38.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/39.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/40.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/41.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/42.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/43.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/44.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/45.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/46.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/47.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/48.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/49.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/50.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/51.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/52.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/53.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/54.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/55.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/56.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/57.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/58.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/59.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/60.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/61.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/62.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/63.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/64.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/65.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/66.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/67.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/68.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/69.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/70.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/71.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/72.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/73.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/74.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/75.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/76.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/77.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/78.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/79.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/80.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/81.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/82.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/83.jpg)
-
A Rampage F/MMP and a El Dorado AA/BFCC. One seems like a good idea.
-
I have just a few questions about this....but first, the preamble....
For decades at Bonneville and in SCTA/BNI rules (governing the dry lakes too), there has been an interpretation of cars converted to trucks-specifically in relation to Chev(GMC) El Caminos (Caballeros) and Ford Rancheros stating that they must compete in the CAR CLASSES!
Now, I know that the rules are silent on Dodge Rampages and what body category in which they MUST compete but-
Have you got a written ruling in hand from, in your case the ECTA as to the legality of the body classification as a "MMP"?.... If they say that it is legal as a mid/mini pickup, does that also hold true for SCTA/BNI?.... If it is legal, can it be converted to real wheel drive and still be run as a mid/mini pickup truck?.... If conversion to a real wheel drive is okay, then, can it be repowered with a V8 engine?....
Do you understand where I am going with this?....See, I have a line on a complete '84 Rampage body and I own a couple of Dodge R5P7 engines etc....
And, if you have the written okay, would you share it with me?
Thanx
Dave
-
Rampages are legal in the various MMP classes with SCTA. An email to the SCTA rules committee will confirm that.
You will have to consult the rulebook with regards to changing from front wheel drive to rear wheel drive. I believe it is prohibited to do so, but I don't have my rulebook in front of me.
Steve.
-
fastman614...If you intend to run the Rampage in /MMP or /BMMP you are not allowed to convert from front to rear wheel drive...it appears that it would move you into Altered Coupe.
Bill
-
Thumbing through the pics of the roll cage layout indicates that this will remain a FWD build.
Engine choice?
-
Gregg,
Your aerodynamics maybe better with the forward portion of your bed cover removed.
At least this is according to what I've read about pickup aero.
Thanks for sharing your build,
Don
-
On the subject of bed covers, this is worth looking at .... http://www.trucktestdigest.com/TTDfeatures/FeatureTailgateUporDown.htm
Nice build, nice diary, good pictures.
Thanks for posting it.
ds
-
Don't forget to extend the helmet side bar and make sure that you can still exit the car in a bailout.
Doug :cheers: :cheers: :cheers:
-
All,
Thanks for looking at my Rampage build. :cheers:
Rich - I hope this is the good idea. :-D
Dave - When I first started this project, I did want to make sure it would be legal for MMP in both the SCTA and ECTA. Emails were sent to SCTA officials and the replies came back that the Rampage would be legal as were VW pickups. I also got verbal OK's from officials with the ECTA and down the path I went. Also, during the rollcage construction, my truck was taken to Maxton and Joe Timney gave it the onceover and approved what my chassis guy had done. As Steve said, an email to the SCTA rules committee will confirm legality.
Here is the Four Shifts and Grins Rampage that has run at Bonneville. This from 2000:
World of Speed Event Records
September 20-23, 2000
NO. ENTRY NAME ENGINE BODY OLD RECORD RECORD SPEED DRIVER
558 Four Shifts & Grins F MMPP Open 122.035 Paul Patterson
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/LSRRampage.jpg)
Also, as Steve and Bill posted, for MMP you cannot convert FWD to RWD and mine will retain the FWD.
In my original post I only mentioned Wilmington and the ECTA but when I do get this running, I do plan a trip out to Bonneville.
Chris - Yes, it will be FWD and the engine swap will be a 2004 Neon SRT4 turbo and will run as F/BMMP. Unfortunately, with the turbo, it will not be as loud as your Midget was at Maxton. :-D
Don - I will keep that in mind but plan on running the full cover in the beginning.
DS - Thanks for the link.....Good information.
Doug - When I started this project, the left side helmet rule did not exist. This will be addressed next month when I take it to Rod Crafters.
Again, many thanks for the kind words,
Gregg
-
Dave (fastman614)
I just remembered this post and this will answer your question about Rampages being legal.
Post #16 by jpm49c is an email from Mike Manghelli and this is the same response I got from him as well.
http://www.landracing.com/forum/index.php/topic,10488.15.html
Gregg
-
Gregg,
Nice looking build, great pics and details.
I look forward to seeing your Rampage up here in the shop next month.
Charles
-
On the subject of bed covers, this is worth looking at .... http://www.trucktestdigest.com/TTDfeatures/FeatureTailgateUporDown.htm
Nice build, nice diary, good pictures.
Thanks for posting it.
ds
Have a peek here, too: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tmU-dcK9Q_0
-
Gregg - Nice looking cage! I would rivet an aluminum angle diagonal to each segment of the bed cover to help keep them from "oilcanning" ( and adding drag). Learned this ages ago in Craftsman trucks. Perhaps I'll see your build in person in Welcome if I make a visit to Charles this off-season. vic
-
Gregg,
Glad to see you working on the Rampage again!!! :-D
I have been going to get up there and check it out but have had some health issues along with my dad.
If you need any help let me know.
Later,
Robbie
-
Thanks for the great pictures. I have a 1982 2.2 Dodge Charger that i bought in 1985 and has been sitting since 1999. Maybe someday!
-
All,
Thank you guys for looking at my Rampage build. :cheers:
Cajun Kid - Charles, Maybe we will run into each other at Larry's while my truck is there. I really look forward to having him and his guys work some of their magic on my Rampage. I hope it comes out and nice as your cars.....all of them (LOL).
WOODY@DDLLC - Woody, Interesting video and good information on the ecomodder.com. Thanks for the link.
krusty - Vic, Thanks for the tip on the diagonals and that is one of the things that will be done next month. When I got the truck back from my chassis guy I kind of had the same thought.
stratman59 - Robbie, I know about the health issue thing. My back got me a couple of times this year. I hope your Dad is doing OK.
jpm49c - John, Get to work on the Charger and get in touch with Steve Hope - Whittier, CA. He runs a Shelby Charger at El Mirage and Bonneville. He has been running this car since the early nineties and used to work at Shelby Enterprises and is a super nice guy to talk to.
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/7550.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/7550-2011.jpg)
As I told others before, many thanks for the kind words.
Gregg
-
Unintended consequences or one thing always leads to another.
Silly little story I wanted to share.
When I first started this project, I really wanted an enclosed trailer to keep the Rampage out of the elements. Last year Charles put his 20' V-nose trailer up for sale and I bought it. Thanks again Charles!
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/Trailer.jpg)
On the agreed Saturday morning, I drive 2 1/2 hours out to his house to get the trailer with my 2006 V-6 Tacoma:
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/Medium.jpg)
I get to Charles' house, do the transaction and hook the trailer up to my Tacoma. We say our goodbyes and I jump in the truck. Man, I was so pumped up at finally getting a super nice rig and then I had a MAJOR Oh Subaru moment. Let's see....The Tacoma is 6' wide and the trailer is 8 1/2' wide and I do not have towing mirrors. I literally cannot see Subaru behind me. I knew it was going to be a miserable ride home and it was. Luckily no one passed me blowing the horn, flashing lights or flipping me off so I guess I did not run anyone off the road although someone might still be in a ditch (LOL).
So now the task was.....I need to spend more money on something to tow this trailer with as the Tacoma was not going to cut it.
I was looking for a Suburban / Excursion when I stumbled on this at a really good price with low miles.
2008 Ram, 5.7L HEMI, Towing Package, etc.
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/Large.jpg)
I just got Mopar towing mirrors last week and will be installing them over the Christmas Holidays.
As I said, silly little story.
Thanks for listening,
Gregg
-
Hmmm, I just noticed on that Charger (G/Production), that it is running headlight covers. Interesting....
SteveM.
-
You can if they are production and they were a production add on
I think i,m right on that :cheers:
-
I recall those being a dealer installed option on the Shelby's - I don't know that they would fly on the Rampage in production.
-
I had an '80 Dodge 024 (same basic body style as the Shelby). I added clear headlight covers for the "cool factor" at the time. However, I didn't realize that Dealer Installed Options would qualify for Production. I assume the headlight covers would have been a "Direct Connection" item back in the '80's.
Steve.
-
Guys,
The headlight covers were an over-the-counter dealer installed "Direct Connection" item.
I did pose the question to the SCTA and did get a ruling back (from the Mayor himself) that there were indeed legal.
The wording was not Dodge specific, but any manufacturer. If covers were available for any car and an over-the-counter dealer installed item, they are legal.
Also, in my talk with Steve, he told me he posed the same question many years ago about the covers, was given the OK buy the SCTA, and that is why you see them on his car. Again, he has been running this car since the early nineties.
These Direct Connection headlight covers are scarce as hen's teeth (LOL) and I am still looking for a set for my Rampage.
I got a lead on a set and hope it pans out. :-D
Hope this helps.
Gregg
P.S.
Dan's email is now part of my log notebook.
-
Interesting.........we want to run gas coupe with our 1985 Mustang and then run Alt by adding headlight covers. If they were available as dealer installed would this negate the required change for class change?
-
saltracer1,
I cannot answer your question on this. It would in your best interest to contact the SCTA rules committee and see what they say.
I would assume that in ALT you would cover not only the headlights but the grille as well.....all in the name of aero.
Did Ford offer headlight covers in 1985?
Thanks,
Gregg
-
Well, I'd think that if you wanted to run ALT, a set of aftermarket covers might be your best approach.
Analogous to this is my factory hardtop on the Midget - It's been okayed for production, but if I were to run an aftermarket top, that would be a no-go. That's a shame, because Speedwell made some pretty slick lids for my little coal scuttle.
Always check - get it in writing - your milage may vary.
-
Guys,
The headlight covers were an over-the-counter dealer installed "Direct Connection" item.
I did pose the question to the SCTA and did get a ruling back (from the Mayor himself) that there were indeed legal.
The wording was not Dodge specific, but any manufacturer. If covers were available for any car and an over-the-counter dealer installed item, they are legal.
Gregg
Great information - I learned something new today. Now to find a circa '84-88-ish Direct Connection catalog. I know I used to have one, but chucked it in the trash many years ago (I think).... Or maybe it's still in a box somewhere in the basement, I gotta get to diggin'.
-
Steve,
Got my catalog off of eBay so you might try there.
They had some pretty cool stuff for the Chargers and Rampages back then.
Chris,
You are absolutely correct: Always check - get it in writing - your milage may vary.
C'Ya,
Gregg
-
The Direct Connection Catalog says: #P4286821 tinted, #P4286820 clear, for 1984- 1985 2 door and sport truck( Rampage) except Shelby for L-Body headlight covers.
-
# P4120806 tinted and #P4286599 clear Headlight covers for 1979 - 1983 L Body
-
# P4120806 tinted and #P4286599 clear Headlight covers for 1979 - 1983 L Body
John,
Yep, those are the ones.....and very hard to find.
Gregg
-
Thanks for the P/N's. I was wondering if DC ever offered the covers for the "new" style side-by side headlamp Rampage, Turismo, Charger, etc. Now I know that either PN 4286820 or 4286821 would be my answer.
Steve.
-
It "looks" like factorymoparparts.com has both generations of covers available, although I have not tried to place an order.
http://www.factorymoparparts.com/p4120806.html
Steve.
-
Steve,
You really gave me hope with your link. I just called them and they do not have either number and both show as discontinued.
This is what I have been running into for a couple of years.
Maybe one day I'll get lucky :-D.
Gregg
-
Too bad about the pre-'84 covers. When I double-checked the website, I noticed that the price of those covers was only $6. That's probably a sign that they didn't have any.
I just placed an order for the "late model" '84 and up covers through the website. I'll see how it plays out.
Steve.
-
Yeah, The $6 thing did seem a little wacky. Good luck with yours.
Gregg
-
Just heard back from them..... No Longer Available.
At least I have the right Part #'s.
-
Try e-bay or some of the 2.2 Dodge forums. John
-
John,
Been there done that many times on both eBay and the Turbo dodge boards and still no luck.
As I said in a previous post, these Direct Connection headlight covers are scarce as hen's teeth (LOL) and I am still looking for a set.
Gregg
-
Were they a moulded piece or just a fabrication from flat plastic? If the latter, would it be possible to build exact duplicates that would meet specs for tech?
Pete
-
Here's a thread showing another Shelby Charger LSR racer. Sharp looking car.
http://www.turbododge.com/forums/f1/f25/194994-congrats-turbododge-coms-first-only-member.html
Back in the late '80's, I had a pair of tinted headlight covers for my Dodge 024 (same headlights as Shelby). They were the JC Whitney version, made from flat plastic, and secured with small sheet metal screws.
I'd like to see a pair of the Direct Connection covers up close to see how they are attached (special brackets?)
-
Says: They were molded acrylic and featured extruded rubber edge that seals tight against leakage with built in quarter turn fasteners
-
http://www.surpluselectron.com/aaron/shelcovr.htm
-
JPM - do you have a copy of the DC/MP catalog? If so, can you tell if the headlight covers for the '84 and ups are curved (#P4286820 or P4286821)?
Thanks,
Steve.
-
GKABBT- nice work.
PV
-
Here's a thread showing another Shelby Charger LSR racer. Sharp looking car.
http://www.turbododge.com/forums/f1/f25/194994-congrats-turbododge-coms-first-only-member.html
Back in the late '80's, I had a pair of tinted headlight covers for my Dodge 024 (same headlights as Shelby). They were the JC Whitney version, made from flat plastic, and secured with small sheet metal screws.
I'd like to see a pair of the Direct Connection covers up close to see how they are attached (special brackets?)
We can't see that, link says we need to register to access
-
Let's see if this works...
(http://www.turbododge.com/dodge_pictures/files/4/3/9/7/charger_150_club_20_percent.jpg)
-
It has the headlights and the turn signals covered.
-
Car no. X22 would be 150 club, wouldn't it?
Mike
-
Yes, 130 club.
-
Ooops, I think he got into the 130 club, but couldn't quite get to 150. Obviously, what's legal for 130 and 150 may not be legal for SCTA Production classes, but I believe those are the correct DC covers.
-
Here is another shot of that car and it was the 130 club. They are the correct headlight covers.
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/ChargerHeadlightCovers.jpg)
Here is a better picture of the Direct Connection headlight covers with the 1/4 turn fastners.
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/Rampage.jpg)
Gregg
-
This is the Direct Connection catalog that I got off of eBay that has some really cool stuff in it.
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/DirectConnectionCover.jpg)
Headlight covers and part numbers.
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/HeadlightCovers.jpg)
And a better picture of kinda sorta what I want my Rampage to look like only lower and without the roof spoiler (which is also impossible to find).
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/DCHeadlightcovers.jpg)
Gregg
-
Thanks Gregg ! I was trying to up load that catalog picture. John
-
No problem, John.....Just took me a while to find it on my PC.
Those are the same pictures I sent to the SCTA rules committee when I asked if the covers were legal.
Gregg
-
In May of 1983 and thru 1985 Scott Harvey ran a Shelby Charger in F/PRO and G/pro at Bonneville and El Mirage. He worked for Shelby Performance Center. F/PRO record 142.850 and G/PRO at 134.529. Said to be headlight covers were worth 2.5 percent in CD.
-
I may be wrong but I think that the 7550 car is that same one. H&H Motorsports (Harvey & Hope) and Steve Hope used to work at Shelby as well.
John, replied to your PM.
Gregg
-
I just looked through the many notes I have and I see both Scott Harvey and Tom Hutchinson names on a note with Steve Hope's name. I cannot remember who Steve told me who the other H was in H&H. Maybe some of the SCTA folks will chime in.
Gregg
-
It has the headlights and the turn signals covered.
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/7550-1.jpg)
Pay particular attention to the front of the 7550 car. Headlight covers and the turn signals have been covered as well. Steve told me the turn signals are there, just covered and they are legal. Not really meaning to repeat myself again but, remember, he has been running this car for many years in PRO. The one thing that cannot be modified are the grille openings and this is true for my Rampage as well. I asked Dan about that and he came back with a big fat NO. That would a bump into ALT.
Gregg
-
Were they a moulded piece or just a fabrication from flat plastic? If the latter, would it be possible to build exact duplicates that would meet specs for tech?
Pete
Pete,
Thanks for your input and a very good point that I have thought about that as well. These covers are flat plastic and attach to L brackets with 1/4 turn Dzus (or a type of) fastener. Since the Direct Connection covers are really nonexistent, exact duplicates might be acceptable. I will pose the question to the rules Committee.
Gregg
-
GKABBT- nice work.
PV
Thanks for the kind words. I hope it only gets better :-D
Gregg
-
It has the headlights and the turn signals covered.
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/7550-1.jpg)
Pay particular attention to the front of the 7550 car. Headlight covers and the turn signals have been covered as well. Steve told me the turn signals are there, just covered and they are legal. Not really meaning to repeat myself again but, remember, he has been running this car for many years in PRO. The one thing that cannot be modified are the grille openings and this is true for my Rampage as well. I asked Dan about that and he came back with a big fat NO. That would a bump into ALT.
Gregg
It does seem odd that someone said that was legal for production. I was under the impression that any non-OEM covering on the nose is illegal in production.
-
I think the reason that they are allowed is that they are OEM parts. Direct Connection / Mopar Performance parts would have been available through the Dodge/Chrysler/Plymouth dealers, and at least available as Dealer installed options on any of the Charger/Rampage/024/TC3/Turismo/Scamps.
I doubt that many of them were actually installed by the dealer at the time of purchasing the vehicle, but that is beside the point that they could have been ordered as original equipment on the cars/trucks. Most were probably sold over the counter from the dealership parts dept.
Steve.
-
This is the Direct Connection catalog that I got off of eBay that has some really cool stuff in it.
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/DirectConnectionCover.jpg)
Headlight covers and part numbers.
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/HeadlightCovers.jpg)
And a better picture of kinda sorta what I want my Rampage to look like only lower and without the roof spoiler (which is also impossible to find).
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/DCHeadlightcovers.jpg)
Gregg
Does that catalog include the "kit" to replace the front K-member of a Charger-etc. with a tubular K-member designed for V8 rear wheel drive conversion? I know that the catalog I used to have (back in the 80's) offered such a kit.
-
I'll check my catalog when I get home today and let you know.
Gregg
-
The only thing that is in this catalog about K member(s) is:
P4007935 for installing a B or Raised B engine in A bodied Duster or Dart ('67 to '76).
I did not see anything like you were asking about :-(.
Let me know if you need anything else.
Gregg
-
Thanks Gregg. Now I need to dig through the boxes in my basement to see if I still have that old catalog.
Steve.
-
I think the reason that they are allowed is that they are OEM parts. Direct Connection / Mopar Performance parts would have been available through the Dodge/Chrysler/Plymouth dealers, and at least available as Dealer installed options on any of the Charger/Rampage/024/TC3/Turismo/Scamps.
I doubt that many of them were actually installed by the dealer at the time of purchasing the vehicle, but that is beside the point that they could have been ordered as original equipment on the cars/trucks. Most were probably sold over the counter from the dealership parts dept.
Steve.
I understand your point but Section 5E (the Production class introduction) of the rule book says;
"The cars are aerodynamically "Stone Stock" with no body parts allowed which were not part of the manufacturers production for the series of the vehicle involved" and... "A manufacturers part number does not constitute an original, factory installed body part".
So the question looks to be if a dealer installed Direct Connection part is a "factory" production part.
Regardless of the status of the headlight covers, the turn signal covers and the lower air dam opening being blocked off was more of what I was talking about and the picture of the Direct Connection rampage sure does not have them covered.
-
JR529,
Thanks for posting that section of the rule book. My chassis guy still has mine so I could not look it up.
I figured that was what you were talking about yesterday and that I why I posted the comments like I did.
Maybe when DW gets back from Holiday in the Bahamas, he will chime in.
Gregg
-
Thanks Gregg. Now I need to dig through the boxes in my basement to see if I still have that old catalog.
Steve.
If you are looking for a tubular K-frame, get in touch with Brian Slowe as he is making these for the TD cars.
Here is his link on the turbo-mopar site: http://www.turbo-mopar.com/forums/showthread.php?56319-Tubular-K-frames-now-available
Gregg
-
I'm not looking for a K-frame, I was just remembering back when drag racers were converting Shelby Chargers, and later Daytonas into rear wheel drive. I'm 99% certain that Direct Connection made a K-frame arrangement that included most of what was needed to put a V8 in a longitudinal orientation into one of these cars.
I'm not looking to do that, just exercising my memory.
That is a good looking piece of work from the guy on the Turbo Dodge board.
Steve.
-
Steve
You are right they make a v-8 conversion k-frame back in 88-89
not sure how long after that
later
Robbie
-
I understand your point but Section 5E (the Production class introduction) of the rule book says;
"The cars are aerodynamically "Stone Stock" with no body parts allowed which were not part of the manufacturers production for the series of the vehicle involved" and... "A manufacturers part number does not constitute an original, factory installed body part".
So the question looks to be if a dealer installed Direct Connection part is a "factory" production part.
Regardless of the status of the headlight covers, the turn signal covers and the lower air dam opening being blocked off was more of what I was talking about and the picture of the Direct Connection rampage sure does not have them covered.
It does seem odd that someone said that was legal for production. I was under the impression that any non-OEM covering on the nose is illegal in production.
JR529
I just looked back through some of my old emails and had asked a question about covering the lower grille opening and turn signals from the rules committee. CRS kicked in and evidently I forgot it... LOL.
The answer I got back was: An air dam is legal in Gas Coupe , modified category. The turn signals can be covered by an air dam, but the grill opening below the bumper is not legal to cover with an air dam ref 5.D pg 61 (This would have been from a 2009 rule book).
I think this answers the questions on covering the turn signals and the lowest opening on the air dam.
Gregg
-
Steve,
With what Robbie posted,
Steve
You are right they make a v-8 conversion k-frame back in 88-89
not sure how long after that
later
Robbie
would probably be why it is not in my 1985 catalog...Just a guess.
Gregg
-
Updating with some pictures of space saver wheels on the rear of my Rampage.
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_3693.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_3694.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_3695.jpg)
These are 5X100 and, if I remember correctly, from a 1990's Chrysler cloud car.
Gregg
-
Gregg:
It looks like you have done the "axle flip" modification, correct? Also, I'm curious about your 5-lug conversion. Did you replace the entire stub axles, along with the hubs and brakes from a later model Dodge/Chrysler/Plymouth vehicle? I'm not sure if it's possible to use the original 4-lug stub axles, and then bolt on the 5-lug hubs and brakes.
Steve.
-
Yes, I have done the axle flip and also got rid of the spring proportioning valve thingy.
You probably have not started the axle flip so here are some good posts from turbo-mopar.com
Start with post #248
http://www.turbo-mopar.com/forums/showthread.php?44294-1984-Rampage-Rebuild-Project-R-age/page13 (http://www.turbo-mopar.com/forums/showthread.php?44294-1984-Rampage-Rebuild-Project-R-age/page13)
When you do the flip the axle moves forward 1" and this thread shows what Adam did. Start with post #550 and pay attention to post #558
http://www.turbo-mopar.com/forums/showthread.php?44294-1984-Rampage-Rebuild-Project-R-age/page28 (http://www.turbo-mopar.com/forums/showthread.php?44294-1984-Rampage-Rebuild-Project-R-age/page28)
My last picture on on post #74 on the previous page in this thread kind of shows it.
Work in progress - post #627:
http://www.turbo-mopar.com/forums/showthread.php?44294-1984-Rampage-Rebuild-Project-R-age/page32 (http://www.turbo-mopar.com/forums/showthread.php?44294-1984-Rampage-Rebuild-Project-R-age/page32)
Here is the final outcome - post #650
http://www.turbo-mopar.com/forums/showthread.php?44294-1984-Rampage-Rebuild-Project-R-age/page33 (http://www.turbo-mopar.com/forums/showthread.php?44294-1984-Rampage-Rebuild-Project-R-age/page33)
I have not done what Adam did in the above links but am seriously considering it.
As for the 5 lug question, I got the stub axles all the way out from a 1991 LeBaron GTC. These are the 11" vented rotors and will be a nice match for the SRT4 fronts I will be using.
As usual, hope this helps.
Gregg
P.S.
You think we have rust, start at the beginning of the links I posted and see what Adam started with.
-
Yes, I have done the axle flip and also got rid of the spring proportioning valve thingy.
I have not done what Adam did in the above links but am seriously considering it.
As usual, hope this helps.
Gregg
P.S.
You think we have rust, start at the beginning of the links I posted and see what Adam started with.
Gregg - As usual, that was helpful. I had already read all the way through the project R'Age, and took note of the axle positioning issue. Since I haven't taken mine apart yet, I haven't been able to visualize why the axle ends up farther forward, but I'll bet it will become apparent when I separate the axle tube from the springs. The offset adapter plate he shows in that thread looks like it would work. That seems preferable to drilling through the springs, which I don't think is a good idea.
After the axle flip, it looks like shorter shock absorbers will be on the "must have" list. I'm thinking about removing a leaf or two from the pack, and running some kind of short coil-over shocks to fine tune the ride height and spring rate (still noodling on this issue).
His Rampage was certainly a rust bucket, and he did a very nice job of bringing it back to life. What's surprised me was how much rust he had on the roof, above the door openings. The only substantial rust on mine is in the footwells. Sure, there is some other minor (by Midwest standards) rust on my chassis , but nothing like a rusted out roof.
Thanks as always,
Steve.
-
Steve
I don't know how much research you have done so that is why I posted those links.
Like I posted earlier, I am seriously considering moving the axle just for tire clearance. I have not done anything with rear shocks but, like your thinking, they will need to be a little shorter. I have also been thinking of air bag shocks.....This is what WGBR is using on their VW.
About the rusty Rampage, I had emailed him 2 weeks ago asking about some parts and he told me when he finished the R'Age he was going to put it up for sale! After all that work!!! WTF?
Let me know if you have any other questions.
Gregg
-
Gregg good work,,,when are you bringing/coming up to the shop?
Last I spoke with Larry, he thought later this month ??
Charles
-
Charles,
I am suppose to give Larry a call next Wednesday the 11th to see if he has room and if so I will be bringing it out on Monday the 16th.
We'll just have to see what happens. I hope things work out because the 16th is a Holiday for me. If it is later in the month, so be it.
As I have said before, I'm really looking forward to having him and his guys work some magic on my truck.
Gregg
-
Curious if the space saver will clear a Moon Disc?
-
I'd rather have good scrub radius than a Moon disc.
-
I took off the front fenders a couple of weeks ago so I rolled the Rampage out to the driveway to do some power washing and get it ready for it's trip to Rod Crafters later this month.
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_3696.jpg)
This picture shows how the axle flip moves the wheel forward about 1 inch.
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_3700.jpg)
Mug shot.
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_3706.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_3710.jpg)
Adjusting, lowering and whoaing (LOL).
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_3718.jpg)
Caster / Camber plate
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_3714.jpg)
BC coilover shock - Gen 2 Neon SRT4
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_3715.jpg)
Gen 2 Neon SRT4 brakes
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_3716.jpg)
Back inside, this shows the axle flip and 11" LeBaron vented rotors
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_3722.jpg)
As usual, comments welcome.
Gregg
-
Very nice looking work. I'll be particularly interested to see how the 2nd gen Neon front end stuff works out. From some of the turbo dodge websites, the 2nd gen neon suspension is somewhere between the factory L-body and the 1st gen neon suspension in terms of ride height.
It will be interesting to see if you can get the car low enough without bottoming out the struts. If you can, that means that the whole 2nd gen neon front suspension (from balljoint up) can be used successfully.
I am planning to use K-Car spindles, 1st gen neon struts, and hopefully some kind of coilover setup (to be determined), in order to get the ride height low enough.
Great looking camber/caster plates also. Are those commercially available for another application, or custom 1-offs?
Steve.
-
Steve,
As you probably know, when these L-Body's are lowered they do not like to have the LCA's any higher than parallel to the ground or some funky geometry stuff will start to happen. You can correct this by dealing with the K-frame (moving it up) but in this iteration of my truck, I am going to use stock and that is why I went with the Gen 2 SRT4 stuff. As you said, "somewhere between the factory L-body and the 1st gen neon suspension in terms of ride height". I went with the BC coilovers because of the inverted design and hopefully I will not bottom out the struts. Look them up and I think you will agree.
And now it's linky time again :-D
These guys have done the Gen 1 and Gen 2 swaps and it has really great information. You do have to register to view.
http://boostedmopar.com/forums/showthread.php?2845-How-To-Neon-Struts-on-a-L-Body (http://boostedmopar.com/forums/showthread.php?2845-How-To-Neon-Struts-on-a-L-Body)
Read this whole thread and pay attention to page 9....Gen 2 stuff on an Omni.
http://boostedmopar.com/forums/showthread.php?1521-How-To-Neon-Struts-and-Daytona-knuckles-on-a-L-body (http://boostedmopar.com/forums/showthread.php?1521-How-To-Neon-Struts-and-Daytona-knuckles-on-a-L-body)
As for the caster/camber plates, I got them from Rich Bryant and they came with the BC coilovers I bought from him. Very good guy to work with and very knowledgeable about TD's.
http://www.turbo-mopar.com/forums/showthread.php?53473-Official-BC-Coilover-Kit-Development-Interest (http://www.turbo-mopar.com/forums/showthread.php?53473-Official-BC-Coilover-Kit-Development-Interest)
As usual, hope this helps. :cheers:
Gregg
-
Yeppers, I am registered at Boosted Mopar and have read through those threads. I try to learn as much as possible about these things before I get too far in. It sounds like you are like-minded. No matter how much research is done, however, it seems like you can never find someone who has done exactly what you are trying to accomplish. The good news is that so many of the Chrysler suspension parts are interchangeable between vehicles and generations.
I have an idea in mind to use the K-car spindles, 1st Gen neon struts, and a coilover conversion (either air or spring). The LCA geometry is a concern (going above horizontal as you have described). My fear is that using an entire 2nd gen Neon setup (from balljoint up) would not allow enough lowering. Your coilover setup may allow for enough lowering. Like you, I intend to keep the K-frame in the stock location for this build. What I may do, however, is modify the LCA or weld on a raised mount for the lower balljoint, effectively raising the balljoint position while keeping the arms level. I have plenty of work to do before I get to that point.
-
Glad you have seen the Boosted Mopar stuff.....Really good information.
I agree with you on the interchange thing. It's been absolutely amazing to me to find how well old and new work together.
As I said before, I might do some K-Frame work in the future.
I'll keep this thread updated as I get things done.
C'Ya,
Gregg
-
What I may do, however, is modify the LCA or weld on a raised mount for the lower balljoint, effectively raising the balljoint position while keeping the arms level.
Hi
Changing the height of the lower balljoint mount on the LCA won't work, it's the geometry of the centre of the lower balljoint & the LCA pivots that is important, not the shape of the piece of metal joining them.
If you want to lower further & keep the LCA geometry reasonable you need to increase the distance between wheel/hub bearing & the lower balljoint.
Cheers
Jon
-
Good point about the geometry. In that case, using the later K-car ('91 up) spindles is the better choice, as the distance from the C/L of the axle to the lower ball joint is increased over earlier K, G, or L car spindles.
Steve.
-
Gregg good work,,,when are you bringing/coming up to the shop?
Last I spoke with Larry, he thought later this month ??
Charles
Charles,
I talked with Larry this morning and it's a go for me to bring the Rampage Monday 01/16 .
I'm going to have him and his guys doing quite a few odds and ends and lots of bodywork.
Hopefully, we will run into each other during the truck's vacation there, LOL.
Gregg
-
What I may do, however, is modify the LCA or weld on a raised mount for the lower balljoint, effectively raising the balljoint position while keeping the arms level.
Hi
Changing the height of the lower balljoint mount on the LCA won't work, it's the geometry of the centre of the lower balljoint & the LCA pivots that is important, not the shape of the piece of metal joining them.
If you want to lower further & keep the LCA geometry reasonable you need to increase the distance between wheel/hub bearing & the lower balljoint.
Cheers
Jon
Jon,
Thanks for the input on the LCA info. Very helpful and duly noted. For this iteration of my truck, I will be using stock items.
Gregg
-
Gregg good work,,,when are you bringing/coming up to the shop?
Last I spoke with Larry, he thought later this month ??
Charles
Charles,
I talked with Larry this morning and it's a go for me to bring the Rampage Monday 01/16 .
I'm going to have him and his guys doing quite a few odds and ends and lots of bodywork.
Hopefully, we will run into each other during the truck's vacation there, LOL.
Gregg
Gregg,
Are you going to have Larry paint the truck too ? and yes I am in and out of the shop alot.. especially on Friday afternoons. building a 29 Roadster for a customer for Bonneville.. it is coming along.. hope to have rolling chassis done in 8 more weks.. you will see it Monda..
-
Charles,
I probably will have Larry paint it after all the other stuff is done.....So far 17 items on my list and growing.....EEK! (LOL)
Looking forward to getting it there tomorrow and also seeing the 29 Roadster.
Gregg
-
Uneventful trip yesterday morning in getting the truck to Larry Shoaf's Rod Crafters in Welcome, NC.
Larry's shop is nestled among many buildings of RCR - Richard Childress Racing. As we were unloading the Rampage, several RCR employees were out walking and came over to look at the truck. Some nice comments were said.....Not really much but I thought it was very cool.
Got the truck inside and went over a list of things to be done on the truck. After we said our goodbyes and as I was leaving, I heard an engine running on a dyno in the R&D building about a block away and it was TOTALLY AWESOME :cheers: ....A NASCAR engine on a dyno is not something you hear in my neck of the woods.
Gregg
-
Gregg,
Glad you got the truck to the shop... Sorry I was slammed all day and never made it there. Yes being situated between all those RCR shops is nice,,... I keep waiting for one of those R&D motors to fall off the truck next door :evil: :evil:
Charles
-
I keep waiting for one of those R&D motors to fall off the truck next door :evil: :evil:
Charles
Charles,
Here is an idea for you: :mrgreen:
Take the engine out of your car and push it out to Industrial Drive.
With the hood up, have a sign that says "WILL RACE WITH YOUR ENGINE FOR FREE" and see what happens. :-D :-D :-D :-D
Sorry, couldn't help myself.....LOL.
Gregg
-
Minor and MAJOR updates.
Minor
Had the day off yesterday (working for a Bank has it's perks sometimes) so I rode out to Welcome to see what Rod Crafters has been doing to my truck. Unfortunately, Larry had not done anything to my truck and I was OK with that. He had other projects he was working on when I dropped mine off and he was finishing up some of those. He told me he was going to start late next week.
MAJOR
As I have posted several times before, I have been looking for Mopar Direct Connection headlight covers for 2 1/2 - 3 years with no luck.
At a suggestion from Peter Jack earlier in this thread about fabricating some covers, I called Dan Warner on 2/16 and asked the question. He immediately came back with a big fat NO on fabricating some saying that I could only run the Mopar ones. When I hung up the phone I was dejected because I have been looking for quite a while.
Just for giggles I went to Google, again, and did a search for headlight covers with no luck. Next I the put in the Mopar part number P4120806 and started looking at what was returned. When I got to the 4th or 5th page I saw a link to eBay. I thought to myself that this was going to be an auction that ended 4 - 5 years ago but when I clicked on the link I just about had a heart attack. This was an active auction and the seller had 3 pairs of these covers. I did the buy now thing for 1 pair and then did the PayPal thing. The following morning, I called the seller and told him I wanted to get 2 pair and not just one.
I just received these today and all I can say is incredible. One box had been opened and the other had not.....Remember these are probably 25 - 30 years old and are in mint condition.
Ad from eBay:
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/P4120806.jpg)
Both boxes:
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_3747.jpg)
Part number:
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_3744.jpg)
Instructions:
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_3748.jpg)
Both covers:
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_3750.jpg)
Gaskets, mounting brackets and fastners:
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_3751.jpg)
I got these from http://www.mmpar.com/StoreVBVS2011/default.aspx?CategoryID=24&selection=8 so if anyone is looking vintage NOS Mopar parts, I definately recommend them. Very easy to work with and very fast shipping.
Gregg
P.S.
I called Dan back after I did the buy it now thing on eBay and told him he must have been my good lucky charm......Guess I should have played the lottery as well, LOL.
-
Congratulations on the new addition to your family.
Steve.
-
Steve,
LOL, LOL, LOL!
You have been mighty quiet lately.....How is you build coming?
Gregg
-
Those rare parts - TOO COOL.
Sometimes the order gets reversed. I bought the factory hard top for the Midget almost two years before I was able to locate the car to put under it.
You were smart to grab those spares. :cheers:
-
Mine is still moving along. Last weekend, I picked up 3 VW diesel engines and a transmission - hopefully I can make 1 good drivetrain from the parts. I bent the main hoop and halo bar for my cage, and welded in some more square tubing for the subframes. My next step is to weld in some sheet steel where I had to cut out part of the original floor. Hopefully I'll get some time to work on it this weekend.
Steve.
-
Gregg, keep the boxes and pictures of the box showing they are Mopar parts, with parts number and history.
Good Find,,
I wish I had know you where coming to the shop this past Monday,,,It would have been nice to grab a chat over lunch,, I too was off and bouncing between the 3 shops on projects.
Charles
-
Chris,
Yep, definately rare parts and being NOS on top of that....Really Cool to me as well.
I kinda hate to use these since they are so rare.....NAAAAAA! :evil: and spares are good.
Steve,
Like all of us.....Progress, whether fast or slow, is still progress.
Charles,
That is why I called Dan back after I did the buy it now thing. I needed to know what kind of documentation he would be looking for.
Sorry for not getting with you when I went to Larry's but it really was a spur of the moment thing. I'm planning on going back out in about a month so let's try to get together then. I would like to get you feedback about my truck.
Gregg
-
Gregg:
Did you re-use the factory rear spring/axle U-bolts, or buy new ones? I've been looking for a set to work with the existing square tube axle and spring plate, but haven't been able to find a commercially available match.
Any advice would be appreciated.
Steve.
-
Steve,
Yep, I reused all the factory stuff. Wire brushed everything really good and then chased the threads on the u-bolts.
I also drilled a hole through the axle and used Grade 8 bolts and washers as extra insurance.
You can see it in this picture I posted earlier in this thread:
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_3722.jpg)
Let me know if you need anything else.
Gregg
-
Gregg, good to se your still at it.
Frank.
-
Gregg, good to se your still at it.
Frank.
Frank,
My Rampage is still at Rod Crafters out in Welcome, NC so they are the ones doing stuff. I hope to be getting it back in about a month and then the REAL fun begins for me.....putting it all together for Wilmington next April.
Good to chat with you and Amy in Wilmington and to see your car running really well. We'll chat more in July and I REALLY want to see you guys make your 140+ runs then. :cheers:
Gregg
-
Gregg, thanks, Remember we are just a couple of hours away. Don,t hesitate to "call" if you need some help we would be happy to assist in any way.
Frank & amy
-
Gregg, thanks, Remember we are just a couple of hours away. Don,t hesitate to "call" if you need some help we would be happy to assist in any way.
Frank & amy
Frank,
Thanks for the offer and I will say the same thing back to you. Let's see.....Swansboro = Beach = Fun.....I'm in...LOL.
Gregg
-
Time for update..... :-D
Got my Rampage back from Rod Crafters a couple of weeks ago.
I am very happy with the results of the metal work that Larry and his guys did so here are some pics.
New passenger side floor that is a duplicate of the original floor:
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_4058.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_4057.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_4056.jpg)
I decided to leave the plating that my original chassis guy did for the drivers side and Larry's guys did their floor work from underneath (no pic of that):
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_4064.jpg)
Front frame rails boxed in, ring welded in to strenghting the coilover mount, holes filled and box made for turbo / downpipe:
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_4053.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_4055.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_4054.jpg)
New parachute / pushbar mount....still needs to be finished. I don't like the angle of the chute mount so that will be changes to about 45*
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_4059.jpg)
New left side head restraint, remounted chute lever (originally in the roof and very awkward to operate) and new steering quick release (old one was hex and very sloppy....new one is a Woodward, splined and rock solid):
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_4061.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_4063.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_4062.jpg)
Now comes the fun of cleaning the underside, engine bay, inside cab and then putting on the coating that Udo Horne used on his Bonneville Bugeye:
http://www.masterseriescoatings.com/index/
After that it will be ready for final bodywork and paint.
Talking with a couple of engine builders and transmission guys so I am progressing and will be ready for Wilmington next April. :cheers:
Let me know what you guys think.
Gregg
-
Gregg:
Looks great. Really like the way the cage ties in the floor...it is often over looked. Second thanks for the link to master coat. I had heard there was a good alternative to Por15 but no one could remember the name. Now I have it.
My car gets back from the chassis shop next month, so I can prime with master coat so the uv rays won't attach the finish like Por15.
Again, the build looks great and thanks for sharing it with us.
Bill
-
Bill,
Thanks for the kind words about my truck.....sill a long way to go.
As far as the Master Coat Series, Udo warned that it is really, really foul smelling. I'm going to do mine out of the garage.
Gregg
-
Gregg:
Thanks, good to know. I will plan accordingly.
Bill
-
Looks goood Gregg, Seemed like it took forever but I know you don't what to rush that kind of stuff. Amy say's Hi. Hope you make Wilmington in april and It does'nt snow. Give us a holler if we can help.
Frank. :cheers: :-D
-
Looking good, Gregg. Is that Mastercoat coating for spray-on only, or can it be brushed on? Looks like good stuff.
Steve.
-
According to their website, it can be put on either way.
I'm going to brush 2 coats on the underside, engine bay, bed and cab floor and then spray 2 coats on the roll cage.
Gregg
-
Looks goood Gregg, Seemed like it took forever but I know you don't what to rush that kind of stuff. Amy say's Hi. Hope you make Wilmington in april and It does'nt snow. Give us a holler if we can help.
Frank. :cheers: :-D
Frank,
Yes, it did seem like it took forever but I am very pleased with the results.
Devoting all my time now to getting it ready for Wilmington in April 2013.....Maybe the weather next year will be better than this year.
Tell Amy I said Howdy and I'll see you two in Wilmington next year.
C'Ya,
Gregg
-
Gregg:
Here's my first attempt at a simulated Plum Crazy Rampage. If you have a suitable pic of your truck (fully assembled), I can apply the same type of technique. Let me know what you think....
(http://i468.photobucket.com/albums/rr44/Jetmugg/Dodge%20Rampage/CompleterenderingPlumCrazy.jpg)
Steve
-
Oh ya Gregg, ya gotta do it Plum Crazy man :-D :cheers:
-
Gregg:
Here's my first attempt at a simulated Plum Crazy Rampage. If you have a suitable pic of your truck (fully assembled), I can apply the same type of technique. Let me know what you think....
(http://i468.photobucket.com/albums/rr44/Jetmugg/Dodge%20Rampage/CompleterenderingPlumCrazy.jpg)
Steve
Dude,
Many, many thanks and all I can say is WOW.....YOU DA MAN! I definately owe you some lively libations for this. You can pick them up at WoS 2013..... :cheers:
I have been leaning heavily on doing a period correct factory Mopar Performance paint jobs like these:
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/BonnevilleLebaron.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/NHRAShelbyCharger.jpg)
but I REALLY do like the Plum Crazy. Time to think!!!!!
I do not have a side shot of my truck fully assembled so this will be fine.
Again, many thanks,
Gregg
-
Gregg:
The period correct paint jobs look fantastic, especially the Charger :-o That Charger will haunt my dreams now. I'll be picturing myeslf in some kind of Vintage road race category, blowing past Alfas, MG's, and the like.
Those MP paint jobs also look like a trememdous amount of work and money. For my Rampage, I'm going to have to focus on getting this thing done in a quick and cost effective manner. For a couple hundred bucks, I think I can have a SubLime catalyzed enamel paint job.
I think it would be very cool to see a SubLime Rampage and a Plum Crazy Rampage on the salt at the same time, as well, but don't want to exert any undue influence on your project. They would look awesome, pitted alongside one another with that white salt background.
Steve.
Steve.
-
Gregg:
The period correct paint jobs look fantastic, especially the Charger :-o That Charger will haunt my dreams now. I'll be picturing myeslf in some kind of Vintage road race category, blowing past Alfas, MG's, and the like.
Sorry to do that to you.....LOL!
Those MP paint jobs also look like a trememdous amount of work and money.
I agree but I REALLY do like that paint scheme.
For my Rampage, I'm going to have to focus on getting this thing done in a quick and cost effective manner. For a couple hundred bucks, I think I can have a SubLime catalyzed enamel paint job.
That seems like a VERY reasonable price.
I think it would be very cool to see a SubLime Rampage and a Plum Crazy Rampage on the salt at the same time, as well, but don't want to exert any undue influence on your project. They would look awesome, pitted alongside one another with that white salt background.
I think you just did exert pressure :-D and I do agree 1000% that they would look awesome pitted next to each other at Bonneville.
Now, decisions, descisions!
Gregg
Steve.
-
Gregg:
Just FYI, that couple of hundred bucks is for my out of pocket cost for color, reducer, and hardener. I'll have to do all the elbow work myself. I've had pretty good results with the DuPont Nason line of paints.
Primer and sealer on the shelf, along with a milk crate full of wetordry paper and most of the other goodies required for a basic paint job. I have done a few paint jobs, and they have turned out fine for "low budget" efforts. I have access to some pretty nice equipment, and a location suitable for a low-dollar paint job (not at my house).
Some time in the early spring, I hope to be shooting paint. At that point in time, the cage should be done, the suspension back on the truck, and the roof will be welded back together.
Steve
-
Since Steve brought this thread back to the top, I figured I would give an update as to where I am with my Rampage.
Unfortunately, not a lot has been done since I got it back from Rod Crafters.
My wife retired in September and we (read mainly, I) have been doing WAY to many honey-do's in the house, on the house and in the yard. She's been working me like a Dodge dog....Maybe she needs to go back to work, LOL! The good thing is most of that is out of the way so now I can concentrate on the Rampage. Also, during this time, we have managed to do some traveling so plenty of rest time, YEAH!
I've settled on an engine builder and I hope to get my engine to him in the next couple of weeks. Also, today, I am ordering the Master Coat Primer and getting to work with the wire brushes.
Time is ticking away but it will be ready for Wilmington in April and probably be Plum Crazy.
Gregg
-
Gregg:
Just FYI, that couple of hundred bucks is for my out of pocket cost for color, reducer, and hardener. I'll have to do all the elbow work myself. I've had pretty good results with the DuPont Nason line of paints.
Primer and sealer on the shelf, along with a milk crate full of wetordry paper and most of the other goodies required for a basic paint job. I have done a few paint jobs, and they have turned out fine for "low budget" efforts. I have access to some pretty nice equipment, and a location suitable for a low-dollar paint job (not at my house).
Some time in the early spring, I hope to be shooting paint. At that point in time, the cage should be done, the suspension back on the truck, and the roof will be welded back together.
Steve
See, you're lucky there..... I have never done any painting so I will be having it done. There is not a whole lot of body work needed so I'll try to tackle that myself.
Gregg
-
Oh ya Gregg, ya gotta do it Plum Crazy man :-D :cheers:
Decisions, decisions! :-D
-
Gregg:
The period correct paint jobs look fantastic, especially the Charger :-o That Charger will haunt my dreams now. I'll be picturing myeslf in some kind of Vintage road race category, blowing past Alfas, MG's, and the like.
Sorry to do that to you.....LOL!
Those MP paint jobs also look like a trememdous amount of work and money.
I agree but I REALLY do like that paint scheme.
For my Rampage, I'm going to have to focus on getting this thing done in a quick and cost effective manner. For a couple hundred bucks, I think I can have a SubLime catalyzed enamel paint job.
That seems like a VERY reasonable price.
I think it would be very cool to see a SubLime Rampage and a Plum Crazy Rampage on the salt at the same time, as well, but don't want to exert any undue influence on your project. They would look awesome, pitted alongside one another with that white salt background.
I think you just did exert pressure :-D and I do agree 1000% that they would look awesome pitted next to each other at Bonneville.
Now, decisions, descisions!
Gregg
Steve.
Well, with the exception of blowing past MG's on a road course, I completely concur with the Rampage brothers. :wink:
This kind of reminds me of the IMSA "Full Time Racing" Dodge Daytonas that ran in the 1980's. Two Daytonas on the team, one set up FWD, one set up RWD.
Same vehicles - different approaches, and it would be awesome to see both of your cars parked up side by side.
-
Gregg:
The period correct paint jobs look fantastic, especially the Charger :-o That Charger will haunt my dreams now. I'll be picturing myeslf in some kind of Vintage road race category, blowing past Alfas, MG's, and the like.
Sorry to do that to you.....LOL!
Those MP paint jobs also look like a trememdous amount of work and money.
I agree but I REALLY do like that paint scheme.
For my Rampage, I'm going to have to focus on getting this thing done in a quick and cost effective manner. For a couple hundred bucks, I think I can have a SubLime catalyzed enamel paint job.
That seems like a VERY reasonable price.
I think it would be very cool to see a SubLime Rampage and a Plum Crazy Rampage on the salt at the same time, as well, but don't want to exert any undue influence on your project. They would look awesome, pitted alongside one another with that white salt background.
I think you just did exert pressure :-D and I do agree 1000% that they would look awesome pitted next to each other at Bonneville.
Now, decisions, descisions!
Gregg
Steve.
Well, with the exception of blowing past MG's on a road course, I completely concur with the Rampage brothers. :wink:
This kind of reminds me of the IMSA "Full Time Racing" Dodge Daytonas that ran in the 1980's. Two Daytonas on the team, one set up FWD, one set up RWD.
Same vehicles - different approaches, and it would be awesome to see both of your cars parked up side by side.
Chris, Chris, Chris!.....
They are TRUCKS not CARS :-) :-D :cheers:
Gregg
-
Gregg:
Any idea who owns the period correct MP Charger shown in your photo?
Steve
-
Steve,
No I don't and I don't remember where I got the pic from. I'm searching the net now for it. Pic shows car # 1195 and I think class was I/SA.
I'll let you know if I find anything.
Gregg
-
Steve,
Google gave me this:
http://www.dragtimes.com/Dodge-Shelby-Charger-Timeslip-4596.html
This interesting tidbit is from the lower left corner of that article:
Cecil County Dragway/ Rising Sun MD Car has been the NHRA National record holder in FF/SA for 15 years. Also the fastest FF/SA car in the IHRA stock class. One of 3 cars built by Carroll Shelby and raced by Paul Rossi until 1990. This is a non vin # car (body in white) and could possibly be the rarest Shelby on the planet! The car now runs in DF/S and won class at the NHRA SUPERNATIONALS at Raceway Park. The car is sponsered by Remsen Dodge in Hazlet N.J. This very rare Dodge is now owned by Michael Naste (CEO of Mighty Muscle Cars Inc. New Smyrna Beach Florida} Watch for this car at Division 2 NHRA events during the 2007 season.
Gregg
PS
I remembered I got the pic from doing a google search for 1984 Shelby Charger:
http://www.google.com/search?q=1984+shelby+charger+for+sale&hl=en&rlz=1R2AURU_enUS497&prmd=imvnsfd&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ei=NPCPUKmYJee20AGVpoFo&sqi=2&ved=0CDwQsAQ&biw=1280&bih=607#hl=en&rlz=1R2AURU_enUS497&tbm=isch&sa=1&q=1984+shelby+charger+&oq=1984+shelby+charger+&gs_l=img.3..0i24.2718.4125.0.5828.8.8.0.0.0.0.188.1374.0j8.8.0...0.0...1c.1.aBt3y0of6ns&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.r_qf.&fp=292120f15a09afa9&bpcl=36601534&biw=1280&bih=607
-
Also, here is some info on the really nice looking Lebaron:
http://www.thedodgegarage.com/turbo_imsa.html
http://www.thedodgegarage.com/turbo_imsa_2.html
And a REALLY good video from 1994:
http://zomobo.net/play.php?id=pyRrv96351s
Gregg
-
WOW - that LeBaron is quite impressive. A de-stroked 2.2L is somewhat thought provoking for a production class vehicle, but may not be competitive with a more modern 4-valve per cylinder design.
The video is way ahead of its time for 1994. There were no "GoPro HD" cameras available back then. I wonder what kind of setup they used in '94? Maybe a compact 8mm VHS type camera mounted to the cage?
There's obviously a lot of Mopar Performance engineering in that little car. Those guys have deep pockets. How cool would that be? Having MP work on your very own vehicle with the goal of a Land Speed Record?
The Charger has a great story in its own right, a body in white car, dominant drag racer, and closing in on 30 years old.
Steve.
-
My exact thoughts on both cars.
I thought the camera this was way cool too. Remember that Bell and Howell was a sponsor so that is probably where the camera came from. Good technology for 1994.
Yep, it would be nice to have Ma Mopar pickup the tabs on our Trucks..... :-D
Gregg
-
A potential issue was pointed out in another thread about how the upper part of my seat mounts in the truck.
As you can see in the pictures below, the upper part of the seat bolts to 1 1/2" X 4 1/2" - 1/4" steel plate on each side.
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/46.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/43.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/81.jpg)
This was brought to my attention:
In the picture where the two gussets are shown, there is a very rigid looking plate welded to the hoop directly below. This concerns me in that it appears that it might be in the general region of your head or helmet. Please look at it critically and ensure in the case of a tumble that it won't make contact in any way with your helmet as it would probably penetrate and do severe damage to your skull.
The suggestion was:
If it was mine or I was building the cage, I would make the plate no thicker than the aluminum plate that's attached to it and would at least roll down the edge of the plate facing the seat or design it so it partially collapsed so that there would be less chance of penetration and more surface area to distribute the potential blow.
This is something I had never seen / noticed and I will be making changes per his suggestion.
Just wanted to share and hope this might help future builds.
Gregg
-
Since Steve brought this thread back to the top, I figured I would give an update as to where I am with my Rampage.
Unfortunately, not a lot has been done since I got it back from Rod Crafters.
My wife retired in September and we (read mainly, I) have been doing WAY to many honey-do's in the house, on the house and in the yard. She's been working me like a Dodge dog....Maybe she needs to go back to work, LOL! The good thing is most of that is out of the way so now I can concentrate on the Rampage. Also, during this time, we have managed to do some traveling so plenty of rest time, YEAH!
I've settled on an engine builder and I hope to get my engine to him in the next couple of weeks. Also, today, I am ordering the Master Coat Primer and getting to work with the wire brushes.
Time is ticking away but it will be ready for Wilmington in April and probably be Plum Crazy.
Gregg
See you in April! Hopefully we can get pics of your Plum Crazy and my Plm Krze together!!!
-
See you in April! Hopefully we can get pics of your Plum Crazy and my Plm Krze together!!!
Funny you should mention that. When I started thinking seriously about the Plum Crazy thing, I thought of your Challenger.
Pics together sounds COOL!
See you in April.
Gregg
-
Update or lack of....
In my infinite wisdom (yeah right!) I thought I could easliy wire brush clean the underside of my truck while it is on jack stands. I must be getting to old for this Subaru as after about 5 minutes my arms were completely given out. I tried on several occasions to do this but finally said screw it. About 2 weeks ago I saw the post by SteveM that he had completed the underside of his truck including paint. I called him and asked about his rotisserie. He said he was finished with it and to come get it. Sooooo, last week I drove out to St. Louis and picked it up.
Rotisserie now at home in the Tar Heel state
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/RotisserieinNC_zpscffd9426.jpg)
I am going to put it back together and try to get my Rampage on it later today.....got to clean up the garage 1st (I got entirely to much crap!) :-D
Many, many thanks to SteveM for this. :cheers: :cheers:
Also, two weeks ago I picked up this 1998 Neon 31th automatic transmission that is a direct bolt on to my 2005 SRT 4 engine:
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_4499_zps641408dd.jpg)
With lockup converter:
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_4498_zpsc5f72aea.jpg)
I can swap transfer gears behind this cover to give me final drive ratios from 2.60 to 3.72 depending on the two choices of ring gear and pinion I have.....Kinda like a mini quick change. The mount shown is from an early l-body and allows this transmission to be directly bolted into my truck.
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_4500_zpsed51450f.jpg)
After seeing Steve's truck and talking with him last week, I'm really excited about getting back on mine.
Gregg
-
Way cool Gregg, I ain't near as old as you and still can't deal with the scootin' around on the concete on my back, just not as fun as it was.Let me know if I can help, Me and Amy are about 2.5 hrs away. Just an afternoon ride for us.
-
Way cool Gregg, I ain't near as old as you and still can't deal with the scootin' around on the concete on my back, just not as fun as it was.Let me know if I can help, Me and Amy are about 2.5 hrs away. Just an afternoon ride for us.
Yeah, the age thing can really be a "Bitch" sometimes.....Just can't do what we used to!
Will do on the offer and many thanks.
Gregg
-
It was great to meet you on Saturday, Gregg. Thanks again for the goodies you left behind. I promise to put them to good use.
I can't wait to see the pics of your machine up on that rotisserie.
Steve.
-
It was great to meet you on Saturday, Gregg. Thanks again for the goodies you left behind. I promise to put them to good use.
I can't wait to see the pics of your machine up on that rotisserie.
Steve.
Really great meeting you as well. The parts were only starting to collect dust in my garage so I figured they needed to go to a good home.
Hopefully, pics will be up by Thursday.....Moving / cleaning stuff in my garage and about 1/2 way done.
Gregg
-
It rained all day long, but then the sun came out around 6:30 or so. A big rainbow was the result. I took it as a sign...
(http://i468.photobucket.com/albums/rr44/Jetmugg/Dodge%20Rampage/DSC_1455_zps6ec12d82.jpg)
Just remembered this little tidbit this morning:
After I left Steve's house Saturday, I was on the Interstate in Kentucky or Tennessee going South and saw a 82 or 83 Red Rampage going North (sorry, no pics).
This was the 1st Rampage I have seen on the road in a couple of years.....I kind of took it as my sign! :-D
Gregg
-
Gregg:
There's something in the air. How's this for a sign....
On Sunday, I went scrounging for VW 4-speeds with my neighbor Terry and his 18 year old son. We paid a visit to a guy who is a collector/hoarder of VW stuff. He lives on a 200 acre farm with a bunch of out-buildings full of stuff/junk. Eventually, we found a VW 4-speed, still attached to an engine, stuck way in the back of one of his barns. It was about 6 feet off the ground, tough to get to, and located behind 200 tons of old farm machinery and assorted other junk. We gave up on the idea of pulling that trans, and decided to go have breakfast and check out a local junkyard (Speedway Auto Salvage, in Madison, IL).
So, we are sitting at the Eagle's Nest Cafe, in Bethalto, IL, about to pay our ticket and leave....
(http://i468.photobucket.com/albums/rr44/Jetmugg/Dodge%20Rampage/ProspectorRampage_zps64786695.jpg)
Parked one spot over from my pickup is an '84 Rampage, Prospector edition. I asked "Who owns that Rampage" in the cafe, and they pointed to a guy sitting at the counter. He says - "I'll make you a good deal on that Rampage", but never threw out a price, but he seems eager to show us all around the Rampage. I got his number, and will give him a call soon.
Terry thinks that this Rampage would make a great get-around driver for his younger son, who is 16.
As you noted, Rampage sightings are becoming more and more rare, not that they were ever common to begin with.
I also took it as a sign.
-
I saw a Rampage this weekend, RR Qtr was in primer and looked like the guy was actively working on it. But, today I had an even rarer sighting...........................a first Generation Fiero!!!!!!!!!
-
The junkyard I was at on Sunday had an entire section devoted to Fieros (probably 25 of them in there), and there was a later gen Fiero on the parking lot. I guess Fiero guys know where to go for their parts.
-
Terry thinks that this Rampage would make a great get-around driver for his younger son, who is 16.
See, with all your Rampage doings, now you've gone and corrupted Terry! :evil:
Looks to be in pretty good shape and a good sign as well. Did you check out the floors?.....Just had to ask! :-D
Gregg
-
Had a pretty good day with no worthwhile pics.
Finished cleaning the garage out.....Yeah! (Have I ever said I have to much crap? :? )
Started on the front and rear body attachments for the rotisserie. Rear is done and the front needs minor tweaking which I'll finish tomorrow.
Hopefully by tomorrow night I'll have the truck in the air on the rotisserie.
Pics will come when I have lift off! :-D
Gregg
-
Every time I see a Rampage, my heart skips a beat - I'm either weird that way or I need to see a cardiologist.
I miss both of mine - now more than ever.
Watching these two very similar and very different builds is really inspiring, and I expect that this could easily get turned into some press for both of you.
Usually you'd have to build your own rotisserie for a build like this - but you were able to BORROW one! Only in Land Speed Racing!
:cheers: :cheers: :cheers:
-
Every time I see a Rampage, my heart skips a beat - I'm either weird that way or I need to see a cardiologist.
I miss both of mine - now more than ever.
Watching these two very similar and very different builds is really inspiring, and I expect that this could easily get turned into some press for both of you.
Usually you'd have to build your own rotisserie for a build like this - but you were able to BORROW one! Only in Land Speed Racing!
:cheers: :cheers: :cheers:
I know what you mean about seeing a Rampage and I'm with you on the heart skipping a beat thing.
Start searching around, they are out there.....Probably with rotten floors but they are out there.
Get one and then you, Steve and me can be the Three Amigos! ROTFLMAO
As a side note, there is an extremely rare Plymouth Scamp in my local junkyard that I have tried to buy but they will NOT sell complete cars. :?
Press would be cool for the Rampage Brothers! :-D
How cool is the rotisserie thing? As I posted earlier, all I am having to do is make minor tweaks.....WAY COOL and as you said, only in LSR.
Again, many thanks to SteveM. :cheers:
Gregg
-
Terry thinks that this Rampage would make a great get-around driver for his younger son, who is 16.
See, with all your Rampage doings, now you've gone and corrupted Terry! :evil:
Looks to be in pretty good shape and a good sign as well. Did you check out the floors?.....Just had to ask! :-D
Gregg
Of course, I had to lay on the ground and check out the floors. There are 2 holes rusted all the way through, probably about 3" x 4". The good news is that the subframe rails looked good. The floorpan section is much easier to patch/replace than the subframe rails.
Steve
-
Terry thinks that this Rampage would make a great get-around driver for his younger son, who is 16.
Looks to be in pretty good shape and a good sign as well. Did you check out the floors?.....Just had to ask! :-D
Gregg
Of course, I had to lay on the ground and check out the floors. There are 2 holes rusted all the way through, probably about 3" x 4". The good news is that the subframe rails looked good. The floorpan section is much easier to patch/replace than the subframe rails.
Steve
Pretty much sounds like mine.....Floors only and no framerail issues.
Gregg
-
Houston, we have lift off!
I got the Rampage lifted off the jackstands and onto the rotisserie. One small step for man! :-D
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_4504_zps7c8ea7b7.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_4505_zps16adf878.jpg)
Hopefully, I'll get it sideways tomorrow.
Gregg
-
Awesome Gregg! :-D
-
I alway thought that Gregg had Altitude :-D
-
I alway thought that Gregg had Altitude :-D
Ha ha, nice one Capt. :-D Once those Rampages go on the rotisserie it's all over. Bonneville might see it's first drag race. Good going Gregg, your shop got cleaned up in a jiffy.
-
Looks great, Gregg. Just FYI, on the front mount, I had the bracket in the "lowest" possible hole on the rotisserie swingarm (body at it's highest position). I don't remember which hole on the back, but you may be able to tell by the bite mark for the setscrew.
That position gave the most neutral balance. I was able to rotate the thing to any position, and still get the 3/8" bolts in place on the rotating ends, all by myself.
It looks like you have caught your second wind on this project.
Steve.
-
Awesome Gregg! :-D
I alway thought that Gregg had Altitude :-D
Ha ha, nice one Capt. :-D Once those Rampages go on the rotisserie it's all over. Bonneville might see it's first drag race. Good going Gregg, your shop got cleaned up in a jiffy.
Thanks for the comments.....Altitude included! :-D :-D :-D
Yeah Mike, cleanup took a while. I had a bunch of totes that I had to move upstairs in the barn that the garage is attached to.
Gregg
-
Looks great, Gregg. Just FYI, on the front mount, I had the bracket in the "lowest" possible hole on the rotisserie swingarm (body at it's highest position). I don't remember which hole on the back, but you may be able to tell by the bite mark for the setscrew.
That position gave the most neutral balance. I was able to rotate the thing to any position, and still get the 3/8" bolts in place on the rotating ends, all by myself.
It looks like you have caught your second wind on this project.
Steve.
Thanks for the tip on positioning. I just looked and the front is now 3 holes up from the lowest position. I'll change that tomorrow.
Today was just the exercise to get it off the jackstands!
I also feel like I have gotten my second wind and I have you to thank for that. The main thing was trying to deal with the underside while the truck was on jackstands.
I'm getting to old for that Shit. Now with the rotisserie, things are back in full swing.
Gregg
-
For you "Rampage"ous people, there's an article in the May 2013 Hemmings "Classic Cars on your truckettes. Only three pages, light on facts as most of their articles are, the featured vehicle has a 2.2 Turbo motor supposedly installed by a Chrysler factory exec.
Quote on stockers -- "Sept. 1982 Popular Mechanics . . . compared the Rampage's handling to contemporary Porches and Ferraris." Blah, blah, blah.
On another note -- "Hmmmmmm" -- GM makes a Chevy (not a Chevrolet) in Mexico that appears very similar in size and concept to the Mopar. The farther south you go, the more you see.
-
Don't call em truckettes Stan, you may hurt the Brothers feelings :-D
-
Don't call em truckettes Stan, you may hurt the Brothers feelings :-D
LMAO Trent!.....At least Stan did not call them CARS as the Midget did 2 pages back. :-D
Gregg
-
For you "Rampage"ous people, there's an article in the May 2013 Hemmings "Classic Cars on your truckettes. Only three pages, light on facts as most of their articles are, the featured vehicle has a 2.2 Turbo motor supposedly installed by a Chrysler factory exec.
Quote on stockers -- "Sept. 1982 Popular Mechanics . . . compared the Rampage's handling to contemporary Porches and Ferraris." Blah, blah, blah.
On another note -- "Hmmmmmm" -- GM makes a Chevy (not a Chevrolet) in Mexico that appears very similar in size and concept to the Mopar. The farther south you go, the more you see.
Stan, thanks for the Hemmings tip about Rampages.
"Sept. 1982 Popular Mechanics . . . compared the Rampage's handling to contemporary Porches and Ferraris." .....REALLY ROTFLMAO!
Interesting on the Chevy.....I'll do a search on that.
Gregg
I guess Steve and I need to be renamed the "Rampage"ous Brothers :-D
EDIT:
Link to Chevy Tornado Pickup Truck - Mexico
http://trucks.about.com/od/makesandmodels/ss/trucks_world.htm
-
Not really anything to post as I was not able to get in the garage yesterday.
I forgot that I had some "Yes Dear, Honey Do" running around to do with the Wife yesterday!
Luckily, I was able to get to Harbor Freight and pickup some supplies, so all was not lost.
Steve, I picked up another long ram hydraulic jack and will be replacing the one at the rear of the rotisserie.
Gregg
-
Sometimes it's good to get away and clear the cobwebs. Nothing done over the past few days as my Wife and I got together with some friends in Myrtle Beach, SC. Rest assured that good times were had by all. :cheers:
Some good news when I got home and checked my email. The front tubular lower control arms I have been waiting for since last October are "supposed" to ship at the end of the week. All this is perfect timing as the LCA's, tubular k-frame and rear axle need to go to the powder coater. While that is being done, I can finish cleaning and painting the underside thanks to the rotisserie.
So, out to the garage in a little while and get the truck sideways and start having fun! :-D
Gregg
-
Live it up, Gregg. We can't wait to see pics of the Rampage in a sideways position.
Steve.
-
Live it up, Gregg. We can't wait to see pics of the Rampage in a sideways position.
Steve.
Sideways? It's a mini truck Steve not a roadster! :-D
-
Live it up, Gregg. We can't wait to see pics of the Rampage in a sideways position.
Steve.
Sideways? It's a mini truck Steve not a roadster! :-D
Trent, good thing the roadster guy can't read or they might get pizzed at that one. :-D
-
HF.....Ya gotta love 'em,
I finally got time to get to the garage yesterday afternoon to work on the truck.
When I picked up the rotisserie from Steve, he showed me that the rear long ram hydraulic jack was having issues so I decided to replace it.
Before getting the truck sideways yeaterday, the main agenda was to replace the rear hydraulic jack with the new one that I bought last Thursday.
I get the "new" one out of the box and it works about as good as the one being replaced.
Soooooo, back to HF this morning to exchange and this one will be tested at the store.
Gregg
-
Good planning, Gregg. I probably would have returned the original one, but I didn't find the flaw until after I had cut the mounting ears off the end of the cylinder.
Steve.
-
Houston.....we've gone.....errrrr.....SIDEWAYS!
Another small step for mankind!
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_4513_zps78c6bcf9.jpg)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_4506_zps9834379f.jpg)
Got the truck sideways late yesterday and then this morning got the k-frame and rear axle off. Now doing the wire wheel cleaning thing.
Also, yesterday I ordered the Mastercoat Series metal prep and primer for when I am through cleaning.
I don't know if I have said this enough but THANKS AGAIN STEVE! :cheers: :cheers: :cheers:
Gregg
PS
Let's hope that this is the only time we see the underside of the truck..... :-D
-
No problem on the rotisserie loan. Thank you for the goodies you left behind.
Your Rampage looks relatively rust free on the underside. It will look fantastic after the Mastercoat stuff has been applied.
If you are interested in knowing, I just found out that 1/4" x 2-1/4" clevis pins make a good replacement for the factory roll pins in the door hinges, and can be removed without too much trouble.
Steve.
-
Looks great underneath!
-
Yeah, it is relatively rust free as Rod Crafters took care of the major rust areas last year.
All I'm doing now is cleaning off the surface and so I can get the Mastercoat applied.
Steve, thanks for the tip on the clevis pins. I still haven't made up my mind if I'm going that route as you said the stock pins were a pain to get out.
Gregg
-
Let's hope that this is the only time we see the underside of the truck..... :-D
Roll cages are meant to be seen, not tested. :wink:
That is remarkably clean for a 30 year old Chrysler unibody.
-
Christmas in April as I hit the Dodge L-body front suspension trifecta.
As you can imagine, performance/racing parts for the Dodge L-body are pretty non-existant.
Luckily we have several vendors that do make several specialty items and Friday I finally got my last front suspension stuff.
A little history first.
About 1 1/2 years ago I got these BC inverted coilovers and caster/camber plates from Rich Bryant in Phoenix. He is RBryant on turbo-mopar.com.
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_3718A_zps2ccd28f0.jpg) (http://s947.photobucket.com/user/GKABBT/media/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_3718A_zps2ccd28f0.jpg.html)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_3714A_zps082547d4.jpg) (http://s947.photobucket.com/user/GKABBT/media/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_3714A_zps082547d4.jpg.html)
Then, last September, I got this K-frame from Brian Slowe Racing in Philadelphia. He is turbo2point2 on turbo-mopar.com:
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_4522_zpseb1188c3.jpg) (http://s947.photobucket.com/user/GKABBT/media/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_4522_zpseb1188c3.jpg.html)
Last Friday, these Lower Control Arms came in from D.J. Elford - Race Tailored Engineering Inc. in Edmondton, Alberta.
He is turboshad on turbo-mopar.com.
I've been waiting on these since last October:
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_4523_zps25604726.jpg) (http://s947.photobucket.com/user/GKABBT/media/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_4523_zps25604726.jpg.html)
The new K-frame and LCA's replace the factory stamped steel ones which are heavy, prone to rust and sometimes having welds break.
Tomorrow, the K-frame, LCA's, rear axle and several other doo-dads are off to the powder coater.
All in all, pretty happy with finally getting all these parts although they are niche market items and were not cheap.....read $$$$ :-o :-D
Now, work update:
I've gotten about 3/4 of the underside wire brushed and only found two tiny rust areas. Need to finish the front frame rails and then the engine bay. Also, I need to weld up a few small holes in the cab floor pan.
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_4518_zpsa6b4bc09.jpg) (http://s947.photobucket.com/user/GKABBT/media/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_4518_zpsa6b4bc09.jpg.html)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_4519_zpsdd920bfb.jpg) (http://s947.photobucket.com/user/GKABBT/media/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_4519_zpsdd920bfb.jpg.html)
After that is completed I will put on the Mastercoat Series metal prep and primer:
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_4524_zpsd447b9a4.jpg) (http://s947.photobucket.com/user/GKABBT/media/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_4524_zpsd447b9a4.jpg.html)
Cool little tidbit:
Back in January I needed a new large thumb drive to transfer data from my desktop to my laptop so I got a SanDisk 16GB one from Target. When I opened it there was a blurb that said that when I registered it I would be eligible to win a trip to Hawaii during their 25th anniversary celebration. So, I go to their website and do the registeration. As I am finishing, a window popped up and said that I was now eligible for instant prizes. Then, a slot machine popped up and said that I had 10 sets of 5 spins or 50 total spins. So, I start to play! On my 4th spin in the 1st set, the spin gave me Camera, Camera, Camera. I continue on and in the 7th set a spin gave me SD Card, SD Card, SD Card. I continue on again and in the 9th set a spin gave me Camera Bag, Camera Bag, Camera Bag. I checked my emil and I had 3 that told me of the prizes that I had won and that SanDisk would be in touch within a week. Sure enough, they did get in touch with release forms that I had to sign and told me the prizes were on the way. The 1st week of April I did get the prizes.
GoPro Hero 2 Surf Edition:
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_4527_zpsc9322076.jpg) (http://s947.photobucket.com/user/GKABBT/media/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_4527_zpsc9322076.jpg.html)
I didn't take it out to get a pic but I did get a 32GB HDSD Card:
Camera Bag:
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_4525_zps25aabc53.jpg) (http://s947.photobucket.com/user/GKABBT/media/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_4525_zps25aabc53.jpg.html)
Retail value is around $450.00. I did end up buying the Roll Cage mount as I could not use any of the mounts from the Surf stuff.
Maybe I need to play the Lottery! :wink: :lol: 8-) :-D
Gregg
-
Nice score, Gregg!
Car is coming along great!
-
Car is coming along great!
Buddy, Buddy, Buddy.....It's a truck, not a car! :-D :-D :-D
-
Gregg, I thought it was a car with a really big open trunk.... :-D
:cheers:
-
Haha! No offense meant Gregg!
Sorry- TRUCK is coming along nicely! :-D
-
Haha! No offense meant Gregg!
Sorry- TRUCK is coming along nicely! :-D
None taken.....Just busting your chops. :-D
-
Gregg, I thought it was a car with a really big open trunk.... :-D
:cheers:
Too funny Stainless! Yep, a REALLY big open trunk!
-
I knew you were too quiet Gregg. :-D Busy man. Everything looks awesome. Well done. :cheers:
-
Looking really good, Gregg, and the GoPro footage will be awesome.
Just a tidbit for you to consider while the truck is sideways on the rotisserie. You might want to cut the bump stop brackets off the frame above the rear axle. By the time you get it as low as you want, the axle will be sitting on the bump stops anyway. You can add lower profile bumpstops directly to the frame rail if you need to. The factory bracket simply puts the bump stop too far away from the rail.
Steve.
-
Gkabbt,
Re: reply 176, control arms with Heim joint pivots
Heim type joints are intended to carry only longitudinal loads, that is, in the direction of the centerline of the threaded stud. This puts a tensile or compressive load across the whole cross-section, and is the basis for their load rating. As applied to these control arms, they are quite likely to be carrying significant bending loads, for which they are not rated nor recommended. Due to the stress concentration effect of bending on the thread roots and the added effect of salt exposure and crevice corrosion, this application is highly questionable.
-
Just a tidbit for you to consider while the truck is sideways on the rotisserie. You might want to cut the bump stop brackets off the frame above the rear axle. By the time you get it as low as you want, the axle will be sitting on the bump stops anyway. You can add lower profile bumpstops directly to the frame rail if you need to. The factory bracket simply puts the bump stop too far away from the rail.
Steve.
Interesting that you posted this as I just removed the bump stops yesterday.....Great minds thinking alike LOL!
Gregg
-
Gkabbt,
Re: reply 176, control arms with Heim joint pivots
Heim type joints are intended to carry only longitudinal loads, that is, in the direction of the centerline of the threaded stud. This puts a tensile or compressive load across the whole cross-section, and is the basis for their load rating. As applied to these control arms, they are quite likely to be carrying significant bending loads, for which they are not rated nor recommended. Due to the stress concentration effect of bending on the thread roots and the added effect of salt exposure and crevice corrosion, this application is highly questionable.
IO,
I understand what you are saying about the heim joints but let me point this out.
The owner of Race Tailored Engineering, Inc. is D.J. Elford who is a M.E. During the design of these LCA's he did quite a few FEA's to come up with the best design. Here is a link that has him explaining the design of his LCA's as well as FEA results:
http://www.turbo-mopar.com/forums/showthread.php?34943-Chromoly-Control-Arm-Design
Also, he has sold many sets of these LCA's and they are used on autocross, daily driver, as well as 8, 9, 10 and 11 second drag cars and none have had any issues.
Having said all that, I feel comfortable with the analysis that was done and the product that D.J. has produced.
Gregg
-
Gregg, take a look at a product called Seals-it. They make a seal to enclose the ball on a rod end to retain the lubricant.
Pete
-
Gregg, take a look at a product called Seals-it. They make a seal to enclose the ball on a rod end to retain the lubricant.
Pete
Pete, thanks for the tip for the Seals-it. It was already on my radar from this post (#101) on turbo-mopar.com:
http://www.turbo-mopar.com/forums/showthread.php?56824-Chromoly-Lower-Control-Arms-for-Sale/page6
Gregg
-
Just a tidbit for you to consider while the truck is sideways on the rotisserie. You might want to cut the bump stop brackets off the frame above the rear axle. By the time you get it as low as you want, the axle will be sitting on the bump stops anyway. You can add lower profile bumpstops directly to the frame rail if you need to. The factory bracket simply puts the bump stop too far away from the rail.
Steve.
Interesting that you posted this as I just removed the bump stops yesterday.....Great minds thinking alike LOL!
Gregg
I just re-read your post and saw you were talking about the brackets and not just the rubber bump stops. I just went to the garage and saw what you were talking about.
Brackets are on the way out!
Gregg
-
It's fairly easy work when the truck is on a rotisserie, isn't it?
Steve.
-
It's fairly easy work when the truck is on a rotisserie, isn't it?
Steve.
Easy and in a weird way, kinda fun.....LOL!
I still cannot believe I actually thought I could do all this work while it was on jack stands.....Stupid me! :-o
Gregg
-
Let' see.....
Camera charged up and ready to go,
Handheld CB charged up and ready to go,
Laptop charged up and ready to go,
I'm charged up and ready to go.
So, it's off to Wilmington, OH in a little while for the ECTA season opener which is the Hot Rod Magazine Top Speed Challenge and there is a full field of 175 bikes and cars! :-D
Really wish my Rampage was going to be there but, as they say, in due time. :cry:
Looking for good speeds from everyone and remember.....Be safe, have fun and go fast! :cheers:
Gregg
P.S.
Steve, your package will be in the mail tomorrow.
-
Thank You, Gregg - and we can't wait to see/hear the report from Wilmington.
Steve
-
Steve,
Package is West bound with the hammer down!.....:-D
Gregg
-
Awesome! Windows are at Bickel's shop. Should be ready early next week.
-
Cool! :cheers:
I did see an interesting window setup on the McMeekin 240SX that passed Bonneville inspection last year.
Pics are coming soon!
Gregg
-
Pics of Don McMeekins window frame setup.
This did pass Bonneville inspection last year and he told me the inspectors really liked the idea.
The windows still roll up and down when the dzus fastners are not in place. Makes it easier loading / unloading in his enclosed trailer.
As for the curve, he laid the lexan over the stock windows and put them in a powder coating oven to form them.
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/McMeekin%20Window/IMG_4566b_zpsf276ec76.jpg) (http://s947.photobucket.com/user/GKABBT/media/McMeekin%20Window/IMG_4566b_zpsf276ec76.jpg.html)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/McMeekin%20Window/IMG_4563b_zps59dad6cc.jpg) (http://s947.photobucket.com/user/GKABBT/media/McMeekin%20Window/IMG_4563a_zps59dad6cc.jpg.html)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/McMeekin%20Window/IMG_4565_zps580efb36.jpg) (http://s947.photobucket.com/user/GKABBT/media/McMeekin%20Window/IMG_4565_zps580efb36.jpg.html)
Very interesting.
Gregg
-
Agreed. I'm thinking of attempting the same technique for curving the Lexan. We have a pretty good sized stress relief furnace at work. I thought about clamping the lexan to the OEM windows, then putting them in the furnace for a few hours at 300F or so.
I've been reading up on it a bit.
Steve.
-
Agreed. I'm thinking of attempting the same technique for curving the Lexan. We have a pretty good sized stress relief furnace at work. I thought about clamping the lexan to the OEM windows, then putting them in the furnace for a few hours at 300F or so.
I've been reading up on it a bit.
Steve.
Sounds like that would do it. I'll ask Don tomorrow how long and at what temp he did his.
-
That is a very clean method for those windows! Better than some of the monkey motion I have seen.
-
That is a very clean method for those windows! Better than some of the monkey motion I have seen.
Trent, I agree. When I first saw them I thought that's WAY to simple to work and still have the windows still roll up / down.
It's a very good design to me.
Gregg
-
Christmas in April as I hit the Dodge L-body front suspension trifecta.
As you can imagine, performance/racing parts for the Dodge L-body are pretty non-existant.
. . .
Last Friday, these Lower Control Arms came in from D.J. Elford - Race Tailored Engineering Inc. in Edmondton, Alberta.
He is turboshad on turbo-mopar.com.
I've been waiting on these since last October:
. . .
All in all, pretty happy with finally getting all these parts although they are niche market items and were not cheap.....read $$$$ :-o :-D
Welcome to the world of orphan racing! :cheers: :cheers: :cheers:
Watching the posts from Wilmington - thanks for the pics.
-
Welcome to the world of orphan racing! :cheers: :cheers: :cheers:
LOL and true.
I was just explaining (justifying) to Rick Byrnes today that I chose the Rampage just to be different.
$$$$ is certainly the case when it come to these kinds of parts.....Oh well, spending my Cat's inheritance! :-D
Gregg
-
I curve Lexan using Olive oil but it's an acquired taste so to speak. You need to have a big enough pan to boil the oil in and when it starts bubbling, turn off the heat and put the sheet in it for about 30 seconds. After that you just lay the Lexan on your former and it takes the shape. It's expensive but it works when you get it right. :-D
-
I curve Lexan using Olive oil but it's an acquired taste so to speak. You need to have a big enough pan to boil the oil in and when it starts bubbling, turn off the heat and put the sheet in it for about 30 seconds. After that you just lay the Lexan on your former and it takes the shape. It's expensive but it works when you get it right. :-D
Interesting idea, Mike! :-o At least I bet it smells good! :-D
Gregg
-
Is it virgin olive oil? :-D
-
Is it virgin olive oil? :-D
Good one Woody! :-D
Also, really good meeting and talking with you today.
Gregg
-
Is it virgin olive oil? :-D
Ha Ha, virgin for sure. I learned the trick from an old timer. He was making a killing producing headlamp lenses for race cars. everyone thought he had blow moulding or vac forming equipment. He draped the cooked sheet over the original and it shaped itself.
-
Just a quick update. Sorry, no pics.
Yesterday, I finished doing the wire brush cleaning of the underside of the truck and now have several small holes to weld up.
Hopefully I'll be able to slather on the primer later this week and then be ready for paint by next weekend.
Slowly but surely..... :-D
Gregg
-
Good evening, Mr. and Mrs. America, from border to border and coast to coast and all the ships at sea. Let's go to press!
UPS Santa dropped off more goodies to me this afternoon for my Rampage.
I would like you to feast your eyes on . . . . . direct from . . . . .SteveM's SubLime Racing Windows Emporium . . . . .
A pair of custom made polycarbonate side windows made by Steve and Jerry Bickle Race Cars mounts for these windows.
I did get them out of the box but have not had chance to unwrap them yet.
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_4663_zpsf42d8b4a.jpg) (http://s947.photobucket.com/user/GKABBT/media/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_4663_zpsf42d8b4a.jpg.html)
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_4661_zpsc9ef2db3.jpg) (http://s947.photobucket.com/user/GKABBT/media/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_4661_zpsc9ef2db3.jpg.html)
MANY THANKS go out to Steve for these! :cheers:
As for updates on my truck.....it's still on the rotisserie pretty much as it was in my last post. :oops:
I have some holes that need to be welded up so I ordered a Hobart MIG welder and had to wait for it to come in. After I got it and the gas cylinder I started hooking it up and found out the regulater was bad so I called Hobart and got a new regulator last Friday. This one does work so I'm ready to go. During this down time on the truck I did get many items to the powder and got them back (no pics as you all know what that looks like.....LOL).
Been REAL busy power washing the house and garage. Thankfully, most of the cleaning is about finished and I am leaving for Wilmington tomorrow so I will not get back on the truck until next week and looking forward to it.
I think that's about all for now.
Gregg
-
:cheers: :cheers: :cheers:
-
In my last post from a month ago, I mentioned about the power washing "cleanup up" thing. Well, that turned into a "fix up", "paint up" campaign for the month of June. Thankfully, all of that has been completed and Mama is a happy camper! :-D
With all that out of the way I am back on the truck full time.....Yea! :cheers:
Wednesday, I began welding up holes and will follow this with some seam welding. This is my first time doing guage metal work and it is going pretty good! I hope to be finished with all the welding by the end of next week. Then comes the gringing/sanding followed by primer/paint of the underside and it will be the Master Coat Series primer followed by Dodge Bright White paint.
My plan is to have it off the rotisserie by the end of the month.
It's good to be back working on this and not having to worry about anything else. The push is on to be ready for Wilmington next April!.....FINALLY!
Will post pics when I have something worthwhile to show.
Gregg
-
Go, Gregg, go!
What color are you going with?
-
Go, Gregg, go!
What color are you going with?
Buddy, I won't be painting the whole truck yet, just the underside and it will be Dodge Bright White.
As for the paint scheme, I have decided to go with the period correct Mopar paint scheme:
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/NHRAShelbyCharger.jpg)
Gregg
-
Gregg, Amy approves :-D :cheers:
-
Gregg:
That Charger is just about the best looking thing I've seen in a long time (nekkid women excluded). If you can pull together a paint job to capture the essence of that car, you will make the cover of Rampage Monthly, for sure.
Steve.
-
Gregg:
Happy New Year! I hope you and your family are doing well (including the Rampage).
Any updates?
Steve.
-
Steve, sorry for not responding sooner but the Wife and I did an extended road trip to Florida and Alabama to get away from the cold weather.
Had some REAL good times visiting relatives and friends. :evil:
We got back home last Tuesday and Wednesday we were greeted with 4" of snow, sleet and freezing rain!!! WTF? :? :-o
Ready to go back South again! :-D
As for updates on the truck, I did get the majority of the welding finished before we left.
Now I'm doing some grinding and then comes the primer and paint.
I'm hoping to get it back to a roller by the end of the month!
The traveling we have been doing has slowed down work on the truck but the trips have been worth it!
You going to try and make Wilmington before Speedweek?
Gregg
-
Yea, Greg's back. :cheers: on the good trips, we've missed you.
-
Greg:
It's great to hear that you are back in the game. The good thing about snow (especially in your neck of the woods) is that it's not permanent.
I am planning to be at the June meet in Wilmington, then at Speed Week in August. Just booked my room in Wendover earlier today.
Now my mind has shifted back into LSR mode. I have a much smaller list of items to address than I did last year at this time.
Best of luck with your project,
Steve.
-
Steve,
We do not have any travel plans anytime soon so I'm hitting the truck as hard as I can.
As I posted a couple of days ago, I hope to have it back rolling by the end of the month.
Busting my butt to have it ready for some shakedown runs at either the June or July meets.
If you do make it in June, Ill see you there! :cheers:
Gregg
-
Steve, you must have the cleanest pickup around by now.
You've been ready to run for so long there can't be much else to do. :-D
Gregg, It's catch up time.
-
Since I'm planning to run at Ohio, I want/need to install front brakes.
There are plenty of other minor chores that need to be done, including moving the boost control regulator from under-hood to in-cabin.
I'm also toying with the notion of adding water injection to the intake stream to keep EGT's a bit lower.
The cold weather here has prevented my mind from working properly. Now that it's thawing out, I'm regaining my mojo.
Steve.
-
We hope to see both of the Rampage Bros. We havent Decided on which meet will will go to this year. Same 'ol story, money and time. Amy's schedule got screwed due to the weather her being a teacher and all. We'll see.
-
Frank - Planning on being there for all 4 meets this year.
As I said in a previous post, I'm busting my butt to have the truck at either the June or July meets.
I'll see you and Amy whenever you get to Wilmington.
Gregg
PS
If I have enough time, I might try to get it down to Coastal Plains for a T&T.....We'll see!
-
Cool, cool and cool. See you soon, Amy sends hugs.
-
One step forward :-D, two steps back :cry:!
One step forward.....
Got a smoking deal on a race engine and hope to be picking it up in the next few weeks!
Steve, of all places it's in Festus so I want to meet up when I get there. Hopefully I'll have the rotisserie with me. :-D
Two steps back.....
1. Managed to screw my back up, again, so I haven't done anything on the truck for about 2 weeks. Feeling better now so I'll ease back into it.
I want to have it off the rotisserie before I go out to MO to pickup the engine.
2. If you recall from a previous post, I picked up this specialized k-frame for my Rampage a while back.
(http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad318/GKABBT/Gregg%20Adams%20Land%20Speed%20Rampage/IMG_4522_zpseb1188c3.jpg)
Just found out last week that with the engine/trans combo I'm running, there is a fitment issue. The transmission case hits the k-frame and will not bolt up to the chassis. I called the guy who made it and he is going to make a new modified one. Unfortunately, he makes these on the side and is extremely busy now so it will be 2-3 months before I get the new one.
I'm going to put the stock k-frame back on just to have a roller so I can get it to the paint shop.
Oh well! As the expression goes.....$hit happens.
I'll get this truck finished some year! :oops: :-o :-D
Gregg
-
The nature of the beast!.
This stuff will drive you nuts, that's for sure.
I hope you stay pain free with your back.
Go well Gregg. :cheers:
-
Gregg:
Please don't hurry the rotisserie. Rest your back.
I am more than happy to let you continue to use and store the rotisserie on my behalf. :cheers:
If there's anything I can do to help with the race engine retrieval or inspection, don't hesitate to let me know.
Steve.
-
Just found out last week that with the engine/trans combo I'm running, there is a fitment issue. The transmission case hits the k-frame and will not bolt up to the chassis. I called the guy who made it and he is going to make a new modified one. Unfortunately, he makes these on the side and is extremely busy now so it will be 2-3 months before I get the new one.
I'm going to put the stock k-frame back on just to have a roller so I can get it to the paint shop.
Arrrghh!
It's the bane of the orphaned automotive universe, raising its ugly head again.
Even the SPECIALTY PARTS don't fit!
Man oh man oh man.
He's probably the only guy in the world making the stuff, so you can't really hold his feet to the fire and potentially turn him into an enemy.
All you can do is move forward and hope somebody in the queue in front of you gets P.Oed enough to say "screw it" or passes away and let's you move up in line.
Gregg - it WILL EVENTUALLY GET DONE - but this is precisely the kind of stuff that makes you go bonkers.
Chris
-
Chris, in this case I have to defend the fabricator. It isn't his fault that Gregg has chosen an incompatible combination and he has agreed to build another. At least he's being honest about when it will be done rather than making empty promises and then continuously stalling.
A customer who changes his direction and then demands instant service is just as problematic as the fabricator who makes a promise and then doesn't deliver. I think Gregg understands this.
Pete
-
Would you not be able to move just one tube, or try a different motor mount or bracket set on it? How bad does it hit frame? Just a smidge or a lot?
-
Hey, PJ -
I wasn't aware Gregg had changed spec.
I haven't been keeping up in class. :oops: My bad.
I'm sorry if I came across as accusatory of the fabricator.
I know when you're doing a one-off, you sometimes have to do a "by guess and by golly". I just hate seeing Gregg having to do the old "I have to do it over again" dance.
I know in my case, when that's happened, the finger has usually pointed back at the guy in the mirror. But where the finger is pointed isn't the issue so much as the obstacle itself.
You squint the horizon - you see the clear path - and you hit the chuckhole right in front of you.
It's the backpedaling that drives me nuts, and it simply is compounded when custom parts are months out.
But I will reaffirm my previous comment . . .
Gregg - it WILL EVENTUALLY GET DONE - but this is precisely the kind of stuff that makes you go bonkers.
Chris
-
It's okay Chris. I woke up a little grumpy and I seem to have kept the mood all day! I've been on both sides of the ball and I guess I was a little closer to the fabrication side today. I know you had a couple of rather annoying issues on the customer side of the ball and do understand your POV.
Pete
-
I am more than happy to let you continue to use and store the rotisserie on my behalf. :cheers:
If there's anything I can do to help with the race engine retrieval or inspection, don't hesitate to let me know.
Steve.
Steve: Thanks again for the use of the rotisserie! Also, thanks for the offer on the engine. This is a used engine and it is currently at the machine shop getting a .020 overbore, bedplate machined for crank straps and the head freshened up. I think most of the new parts I wanted are in and hopefully assembly should start sometime next couple of weeks. I'm getting this from Justin Bondurant at JMB Performance and Powdercoating on Nicole Lane which Google Maps shows it to be about 3 1/2 miles from you.
He does some seriously good work:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/69734708@N08/
http://www.jmbperformance.com/
I'll keep you posted on when I'm going to be there.
Would you not be able to move just one tube, or try a different motor mount or bracket set on it? How bad does it hit frame? Just a smidge or a lot?
Crackerman: There is one tube that hits the transmission case and the gap between the k-frame and chassis is about 1 1/2 inches. I did asked the question about replacing the tube to the fabricator, Brian Slowe. He said there is a lot going on in that area and he would not be comfortable doing that and offered to do a new frame with the modified tube.
Chris and PJ: My plans have not changed for the engine/trans combo.....It has always been the 2.4 with automatic trans.
When I spoke with Brian last week, he confirmed what I already new. 99% of the k-frames he has made have been successfully used with the old Turbo Dodge 2.2/2.5 with 5 speed or automatic and the newer 2.4 with 5 speed transmission.
It turns out that me and a guy in Texas are the only ones that are doing the 2.4 with automatic. He also told me that this combo is the only one he did not have access to when he was prototyping the k-frames for the L-Body.
Brian was EXTREMELY apologetic about the situation and I reassured him that all was good. REALLY nice guy to deal with and a D*A*M*N good fabricator.
I'm just thankful that this was discovered now and not by me a couple of months from now when I install the engine and trans.
Chris: Bonkers.....Absolutely! :-D
Gregg
-
Gregg:
How does the new K-frame fit? Is the engine in yet? :wink:
Steve.
-
As most of you know, I did a MAJOR road trip to SSS's in MI and Midget's in WI to pick up the equipment to do audio streaming from Wilmington.
I think it was an overall success and I'm ready to do it again in July with some improvements!
I'm currently testing video to go along with the audio! We will also have separate a microphone that will allow you to hear the cars and bikes
in addition to Brian announcing.
So, we'll see where all this leads.
Due to the above, I've only managed a little work on the truck but I am happy to report that my new k-frame was waiting for me when I got home!
This was much sooner than expected! MANY Thanks to Brian Slowe for the relative quick turn around!
Also, picked up my engine last month so the last MAJOR $$$$ item is my transmission and I'm currently taking with two different transmission guys about one!
Slowly but surely getting there!
Gregg
-
Thank you for your efforts to share ECTA racing with all LSR racers :cheers:
-
Yes, thanks a million for all the work you've put into bringing visual and audio coverage to the rest of the world.
What's the story on the "old" K-frame??? :wink:
Steve.
-
YEp, Thanks Gregg. See you in July. Safe journeys.
-
What's the story on the "old" K-frame??? :wink:
Steve.
Just got and email back from the fabricator, Brian Slowe and he does still have it!
Give him a call at 215-535-7780.....He's in Philadelphia.
With this k-frame you will need to use the custom tubular lower control arms as the stock ones will not work.
Gregg
-
I was confused...for a minute I thought you were talking about a Smith & Wesson "K- frame".
Regards, Neil Tucson, AZ
-
I prefer j frames me self Neil....
-
Gregg:
Spring is springing - what's going on in your neck of the woods?
Steve.
-
Gregg:
Spring is springing - what's going on in your neck of the woods?
Steve.
Steve - I had some face time with Gregg this weekend - kinda' cajoling him into getting on the stick.
He said the transmission is about ready, but I gently reminded our friend that there are probably other little things he could be doing while waiting . . .
Udo Horn said it quite succinctly - "Every bolt needs to be turned by somebody". :wink:
I think the smell of race fuel this last weekend may well have been the elixir. :cheers:
Gregg - Thank you for the Wilmington tour, and your generous friendship. I had a blast this weekend.
-
Started back working in the garage and Rampage last week.
Plan now is to have the underside completed and back as a roller by the end of the month.
I will pickup my trans from over in Zanesville, OH on the way to Wilmington next month.
After the meet is over, I'll take the rotisserie back out to Steve.
Steve, I'll explain when I see you next month!
Chris, It really was a great weekend and I know you had a GREAT time. Again in September?????
Gregg
-
Yeah Gregg. BTW audio was sounding good while I was wrenching on Amys camaro. Keep after it.
-
Peter Jack asked this question earlier today about my truck:
Gregg, we keep really enjoying your pictures but it would be even neater if you didn't get to take many at some point because you were too busy running your truck. How's it coming? :-D :-D :-D
Pete
And my answer was :
PJ,
It's SO ironic asking about my truck at this time.
Bill Warner's death, back in 07/13, had a profound effect on me and made me take a HARD look at my own mortality.
For the last almost 2 years, when I would I to the garage to work on it, I found that I could not.
Only within the past couple of months could I talk about or even have the desire to work on it but I am back on it.
I feel that doing the pictures and audio has been my contribution to the sport and I REALLY do enjoy doing it!
Enough of a downer.....SORRY!
So to answer your question, I have been working on it and hope to have it off the rotisserie by the end of the month and get that back to Steve. My last major $$$$ is the transmission and hope to have that by the end of the month also.
I would like to have here in September but May 2016 is more realistic.
At least I am working on it again!
Thanks for asking,
Gregg
At least I am working on it again! :-D
Gregg
-
I have a pair of DC Clear Headlamp covers for Rampage, still new in plastic. Original packaging, info sheet and hardware. PN: P4286599. I was about to post on Ebay, once I do, I will post the link. Just seeing if there is still interest in these, everything I've found on the forums are several years old. Thank you.
-
I have a pair of DC Clear Headlamp covers for Rampage, still new in plastic. Original packaging, info sheet and hardware. PN: P4286599. I was about to post on Ebay, once I do, I will post the link. Just seeing if there is still interest in these, everything I've found on the forums are several years old. Thank you.
(http://i1016.photobucket.com/albums/af289/blkorwhtnvrgry/20150918_1140551_zpsngl9ivzu.jpg) (http://s1016.photobucket.com/user/blkorwhtnvrgry/media/20150918_1140551_zpsngl9ivzu.jpg.html)
(http://i1016.photobucket.com/albums/af289/blkorwhtnvrgry/20150918_1141581_zpsctp2ham2.jpg) (http://s1016.photobucket.com/user/blkorwhtnvrgry/media/20150918_1141581_zpsctp2ham2.jpg.html)
(http://i1016.photobucket.com/albums/af289/blkorwhtnvrgry/20150918_1141291_zpsaswu4mrn.jpg) (http://s1016.photobucket.com/user/blkorwhtnvrgry/media/20150918_1141291_zpsaswu4mrn.jpg.html)
(http://i1016.photobucket.com/albums/af289/blkorwhtnvrgry/20150918_1141171_zpsppltxuot.jpg) (http://s1016.photobucket.com/user/blkorwhtnvrgry/media/20150918_1141171_zpsppltxuot.jpg.html)
(http://i1016.photobucket.com/albums/af289/blkorwhtnvrgry/20150918_1141121_zpsrkhncns8.jpg) (http://s1016.photobucket.com/user/blkorwhtnvrgry/media/20150918_1141121_zpsrkhncns8.jpg.html)
(http://i1016.photobucket.com/albums/af289/blkorwhtnvrgry/20150918_1141031_zpsolnl1gkb.jpg) (http://s1016.photobucket.com/user/blkorwhtnvrgry/media/20150918_1141031_zpsolnl1gkb.jpg.html)
-
Glad these found a home! Good luck!
-
I second that. Go Gregg. :cheers: :cheers: :cheers:
-
:cheers: :cheers: :cheers: Go Gregg, see you soon.
-
Gregg:
Nice to meet you at PRI. Let's hope our next visit is a few miles outside of Wendover with 8 miles of good salt!
Safe travels,
Bill
-
Please let me know what you think (be gentle LOL) .
I think if you take the thing over 150mph you should be given the medal of honor.
-
Poly.....I don't really understand your comment.....:? :? :?
Gregg
-
Poly.....I don't really understand your comment.....:? :? :?
Gregg
He asked for people to let him know what they think. Probably one of the most pointless and useless vehicles chrysler ever put their name on... I almost said made but realized chrysler corp really had nothing to do with it's production. It's P-dumb in the greatest ways possible. Wrong for all the right reasons.
-
Poly.....I don't really understand your comment.....:? :? :?
Gregg
He asked for people to let him know what they think. Probably one of the most pointless and useless vehicles chrysler ever put their name on... I almost said made but realized chrysler corp really had nothing to do with it's production. It's P-dumb in the greatest ways possible. Wrong for all the right reasons.
I beg to differ.
I've owned two, and would gladly purchase a similar type vehicle if one were available in the US.
Two seats, so you don't have to bring anybody along that you don't want to, enough space in the back to haul band equipment, lawn mowers, table saws, tools, etc., yet not so large that all of your buddies ask you to help them move, tows 2500 lb's, fits in the garage, good in snow, gets 24 mpg and you get the lower cost "Truck" license plate tags.
And the 2.2 with the 4 speed was quicker off the line than anything Mazda, Nissan, Toyota, Ford or Chevy was selling as a mini pickup in 1984.
Singularly the most practical and utilitarian vehicle I've ever owned.
God Bless the Dodge Rampage. :cheers:
-
You look at today's small pickup market -- and there's no "small" pickup.
In Mexico you see a bunch of Chevy (not Chevrolet) useful vehicles that look a lot like a Rampage. I think they're great for some craftsmen that don't need to pay for a full-size with its initial cost and higher gas expenses.
Stan
(Damm, Chris -- you beat me by 2 minutes. I'll have to practice my typing.)
-
Stan, typing is hopeless for us old guys. High school typing class was over 50 years ago and most of those 50+years we didnt type anything. So its slow and steady. :cheers:
-
Don't give up yet, typists. I remember Mrs. Oppenheimer, in 10th grade, my typing teacher. She was massively endowed in the breastal department (at least us 10-th graders thought so) and therefore I spent lots of time paying rapt attention to her. I still type very well and very fast. Thanks, Ma'am, for the fantasies and the teaching.
-
Don't give up yet, typists. I remember Mrs. Oppenheimer, in 10th grade, my typing teacher. She was massively endowed in the breastal department (at least us 10-th graders thought so) and therefore I spent lots of time paying rapt attention to her. I still type very well and very fast. Thanks, Ma'am, for the fantasies and the teaching.
Slim:
The secret to learning to type is to look at something other than the key board and train your fingers where the keys are...well it worked didn't it?
BR
-
Great in snow??? it's not even rwd. How are you suppose to go the next 8 miles sideways with that? Now a '64 Polara, that's great in snow. Enough chrome to scare everyone out of your way and tough enough to keep on going after you knock some things over. Just pull it out of the ditch and do it some more.
-
Great in snow??? it's not even rwd. How are you suppose to go the next 8 miles sideways with that? Now a '64 Polara, that's great in snow. Enough chrome to scare everyone out of your way and tough enough to keep on going after you knock some things over. Just pull it out of the ditch and do it some more.
I'm not talking about candyazz snow like you get in the Northwest. I've driven C Body Mopars in snow - REAL snow - IOWA snow, like the snow that brought down Buddy Holly's plane and inspired Manfred Mann. Yep, those are good snow cars . . .
The '64 Polara was the same chassis as my dad's '62 Dart, and with a set of studded snow tires, was unstoppable - even with the brakes.
BUT
The Rampages - along with the Dodge Omni - FWD - NEVER let me down, NEVER left me stuck or stranded - AND could pull a Jim Rockford in reverse in the Target parking lot from a DEAD STOP.
And you didn't have to spend the whole weekend polishing chrome . . . :wink:
Welcome aboard, Ben. :cheers:
-
I don't know jack about a Polara, seen snow 3 times in my life and maybe a foot at best?.
I type with one finger. :-D :-D :-D
-
Poly, You seem to have a thing against FWD trucks and being used as race trucks.
Here are two examples for you viewing pleasure:
This is SteveM's 1984 Rampage and is the H/DT Record Holder at both Bonneville and Wilmington at 135+.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Z7ZCh4qg-GYzxkQbhjRFQMARvoujJE1LrxJ9O5fl9BUVVxzQzqqk_eMTg8zCcP86pYUE=w440-h330)
and here is his build diary link:
http://www.landracing.com/forum/index.php/topic,10625.0.html
This is the White Goose Bar 1980 VW and is the Record Holder at El Mirage with a 182+ and Bonneville with a 194+.
(http://www.whitegoosebar.com/images/2111.jpg)
and here is their link:
http://www.whitegoosebar.com/veh_2111.html
FWD ROCKS!
Gregg
-
Gregg:
Nice to meet you at PRI. Let's hope our next visit is a few miles outside of Wendover with 8 miles of good salt!
Safe travels,
Bill
Bill, Sorry, completely missed this post. REALLY good meeting you as well. Always good to put a face with a name. True on Bonneville! You planning any trips to Wilmington or Loring?
Gregg
-
Great in snow??? it's not even rwd. How are you suppose to go the next 8 miles sideways with that? Now a '64 Polara, that's great in snow. Enough chrome to scare everyone out of your way and tough enough to keep on going after you knock some things over. Just pull it out of the ditch and do it some more.
I'm not talking about candyazz snow like you get in the Northwest. I've driven C Body Mopars in snow - REAL snow - IOWA snow, like the snow that brought down Buddy Holly's plane and inspired Manfred Mann. Yep, those are good snow cars . . .
The '64 Polara was the same chassis as my dad's '62 Dart, and with a set of studded snow tires, was unstoppable - even with the brakes.
BUT
The Rampages - along with the Dodge Omni - FWD - NEVER let me down, NEVER left me stuck or stranded - AND could pull a Jim Rockford in reverse in the Target parking lot from a DEAD STOP.
And you didn't have to spend the whole weekend polishing chrome . . . :wink:
Welcome aboard, Ben. :cheers:
This wasn't in Portland, This was in Indiana. I moved to Oregon in 2002. Also I don't think the '62 dart is really a B-body (the '64 polara is). The '62dart was in the same no mans land that my 1960 dart is in. Unit body, but not really a platform car. The forward look era cars be crazy.
-
I'm certainly planning to run my Rampage over 150 mph at Bonneville this summer. With some additional tuning, the 1.5L diesel might even get it there.
The 2 liter diesel engine should have plenty of punch to get the Rampage over 150.
Mike Manghelli is knocking on the 200 mph door with his Rabbit pickup.
Steve.
-
...but seriously, Gregg - what's going on with your Rampage?
Steve.
-
Yea Gregg, what Steve said..
Sup?
-
Poly, You seem to have a thing against FWD trucks and being used as race trucks.
Well to be fair, I have a thing against nearly everything. I just said they were no fun at all in the snow. I mean, if you can't land in a ditch once a year, wheres the fun in that?
-
Steve and Frank.....Work on the truck continues but has slowed down. After PRI and before the holidays we had some issues with both my Mon (94) and my MIL (88). MOM OK.....MIL still not doing very well!
I still plan on having the truck at Wilmington and am shooting for the June meet. If that doesn't pan out I'll try to do Loring in July!
Gregg
-
Here's the Mexican Chevy I mentioned . . .
-
Thanks, Stan. Eventually, one of the manufacturers will bring a small, aerodynamic pickup truck to the US market. Something like that would have the potential to do very well in the various small truck classes.
Steve.
-
Here's the Mexican Chevy I mentioned . . .
We've got those in South Africa and are quite popular, :cheers:
-
Isn't that what the Aussies refer to as a ute? :? :? :? :-D
Pete
-
Indeed it is.
What we call them here is another story. :-D
-
I know this thread is quite old, a d that we lost Gregg some time back as well. That?s actually part of the reason why I?m posting. At Speed Week 2021, I was talking with some friends about how Gregg was always the photographer ?on the scene?, sometimes greeting racers and taking photos from the moment of arrival at an event, until the event was complete.
We also talked about how much of a shame it was that Gregg?s Rampage never got a chance to be completed and run at Bonneville. I have a friend who has caught Salt Fever, and is interested in finding out if it might be possible to adopt Gregg?s LSR Rampage project, and see it through to completion.
Does anyone from this group know Gregg?s widow, or have any additional information related to the person managing his estate? We?d really love to see his LSR Rampage get completed. Getting in touch with the right person seems like a good place to start that project.
Please PM with any info, or post here.
Thanks - Steve
-
PS - sorry for the funny formatting of that last post. I was composing on my phone, and the formatting and punctuation looks weird.
Steve
-
Gregg Adams' home phone number was Two52-908-2963 if this helps.
I kept looking for him at the #1 starting line. Just out of habit. What a fine gentleman he was. I miss him.
-
A GREAT BIG AMEN ON THAT!
I was proud he considered me a friend.
A finer, gentle, man was hard to find.
Jim
-
Gregg Adams' home phone number was Two52-908-2963 if this helps.
I kept looking for him at the #1 starting line. Just out of habit. What a fine gentleman he was. I miss him.
I thought that was his cell number?
Indeed a true gentleman and missed by a bunch of us.
-
Maybe I got them switched.
The other number is . . . Two52-459-8657.
I had he and Freud signed up for one of my renowned Nevada Hiway 93 tours and never got it done. What a kick that would have been.
-
Gregg always made you feel like YOU were the reason he was there. Definitely miss him.
Wayno
-
I had he and Freud signed up for one of my renowned Nevada Hiway 93 tours and never got it done. What a kick that would have been.
That's a tour I would have wanted to be on, especially if Freud was driving. :cheers:
-
He was much better on the straight-aways than the curves. You'd only see what you just missed.
-
He was much better on the straight-aways than the curves. You'd only see what you just missed.
My understanding is Freud had no issue in putting it in reverse if you wanted another look at something, he just wasn't going to slow down when doing it. :-o