[OG68]

Well, after a 7 year restoration, I finally got my GTO on the road. It last ran in 1992. Lots of setbacks along the way but it's all but done.
The wife and I did most of the restoration work. I had the first engine build, rear axle, and paint done by professional shops along with some small items such as the carb, steering wheel, etc

I started off this project planning to keep the car as original as possible. That changed...
Original rebuilt engine was bored 40 over, 14 cc dished ICON pistons, forged RPM rods, 068 cam and stock '16' heads were used. 9.65 calculated compression. Cliff built the Q-Jet.

During a test stand break in, the engine ran great. I took it home and pulled the pan and discovered the 2-3-4 cam bearings had melted. Engine would not bar over without excessive force.

Obviously a second rebuild was in order. Mick (Lust4speed) helped me install new cam bearings and shaved them for clearance. The second time around I decided to go with Edelbrock 72 cc D port heads, Crower 62042 cam with Crower SS enduro rockers and "Cam Saver" lifters. I know I left power on the table by not increasing the compression but given the quality of gas here in California, I prefer not having to worry about it. This time I built the engine with lots of advice from Mick.

Second break-in went well and engine was installed last Sept. Reinstalled the front fenders, bumper and hood and finally started it up last weekend and drove around the 4 mile neighborhood loop. Lots of small hills to help seat the rings. Engine feels and sounds great!

Still a few items to complete, finish painting the grills, final tune, and AC charge. Looking forward to the New Year!

BTW not my house lol