Ollie's 66 American Convertible
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Topic: Ollie's 66 American Convertible
Posted By: Ollie
Subject: Ollie's 66 American Convertible
Date Posted: Jun/03/2015 at 2:52pm
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I am starting this new thread because my project “The Restoration of Rapid Delivery” has taken an abrupt turn and ground to a halt. The Rambler transmission just underwent a major overhaul. When the BW M-35 was torn down we discovered that the main bearing was not correct. In a previous overhaul an improper bearing was inserted direct to the aluminum case. It fit tight to start with but it started wallowing around, not rigidly held by the case causing a vibration. They machined a metal sleeve to hold the proper bearing and mounted the sleeve in the case. After 3,000 highway miles the trans is shifting great and no vibration. BUT..when the ambient temperature is above 85F and at 65-70 mph it is leaking fluid out the front seal. I am not going to mess with it any more. I have decided to swap drive trains, Jeep to the Rambler and Rambler to the Jeep.I am confident that the Rambler transmission will do great in the 45 mph Jeep. I am rebuilding the 232 with a few goodies; Clifford Performance intake with a 2 barrel Weber carb, electric choke, headers, dual exhaust, Isky 256 Super Cam, and Clifford Valve cover. The 727 trans and converter to be rebuilt stock. Don’t see much of a mounting issue with the trans, but will have to add approx. 13” to the drive shaft. The gas pedal will be Lokar with Lokar throttle and kick down cables. I will have to redo my console as I plan use the shifter out of the Jeep. But it needed some changes to it any way. The block is in the machine shop and we should have a report by Monday or Tuesday. It looked good when we tore it down. Picture link http://www.ollie.phanfare.com/6919970" rel="nofollow - http://www.ollie.phanfare.com/6919970 Ollie |
Replies:
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Jun/04/2015 at 6:34am
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Have a de-coding question regarding the 727 transmission I took out of the Postal Jeep.... According to the shop manual AMC stamped each transmission. The first 7 digits were the part number; I believe them to be P593294, the next 4 digits were the date code 5507; the last digits were the serial number 642. Can anyone de-code the date 5507? Located a guy thru a friend and we are taking the transmission to him today. My regular trans man cannot get to it for a couple months  This is on the tail shaft. I would say it was cast Feb 1976. Now I cannot say that the trans housing and tail shaft left the factory together.  Ollie |
Posted By: dltowers
Date Posted: Jun/04/2015 at 10:21am
Ollie, I am all eyes , keep the updates coming....------------- Original Owner, 1974 Javelin: 360ci,2v,727TC. Motorola Multiplex with 8-Track. G4 Plum exterior with 421Q Black Uganda Interior. Purchased on July 16, 1974 from Hooker AMC, Sherman, TX for $4500.20 |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Jun/04/2015 at 3:21pm
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Transmission update... Got hold of my regular Mopar trans guy and he told me it will be about a month before he can get to me... Called another Mopar buddy and he told me he knows the man, come on down. It was a 70 mile drive. Just got back from the transmission shop. I like the guy right off and could see he knew Mopar transmissions. Left my trans & torque converter there and he told me it will be done by Tuesday or Wednesday. He will get a re-built torque converter. Told me $500 cash, if nothing surprising. I doubt there will be as it was shifting....crappy...but shifting. Kickdown was not hooked up and that is real bad on the clutches. Having fun, Ollie |
Posted By: scott
Date Posted: Jun/04/2015 at 3:50pm
| I'm going to miss the Rapid Delivery updates, but am looking forward to the new thread! |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Jun/05/2015 at 12:41pm
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Scott, Rapid Delivery will rise from the ashes and live again !@! Trust me.... Got a call from the machine shop and not the best news. We got a crack, below a freeze plug. About 4 inches but not real bright, but its leaking from the freeze plug. He think's it can be ground out. Me and Pete's solution. We are going to grind it and JB Weld it, and put the freeze plug in.. I would buy a bare 232 inspected block if I can do it reasonably. You got one For Sale? I am a tug boat Captain by profession, and I will tell you a true story. Blew a piston thru the block on a 8-71 GM generator. JB Welded the block back together, re-sleeved it and a complete overhaul at sea. I got back on that tug 2 years later and that generator was still running. Any comments, suggestions, been there..done that comments are EXTREMELY welcome... Ollie PS Parts arrived today...more posts coming |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Jun/08/2015 at 6:51am
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Transmission at the trans shop, block and head in the machine shop...both should be home this week. Been cleaning and painting accessories. Most of my ordered parts are here, waiting on the cam. Think I about have got everything covered except my Lokar stuff. Going to get that coming this week. Wife will pick up the carpet today as she has to go home to attend a funeral. Will have to redo the carpet and console when I do the shifter.  Keep having fun with your AMC, Ollie |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Jun/09/2015 at 3:48pm
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Big day in the Rambler business... Picked up the block, head, crank, oil pan and timing chain cover from the machine shop. Ready for paint and assembly.  My 256 cam is here and engine compartment paint. I decided to get custom mixed spray can paint for the engine compartment. I thought that might be easier than mixing and spraying. I might regret my decision, but we shall see. Still waiting on a call from the transmission shop. Ordered all my Lokar stuff and engine internal parts today. Keep having AMC FUN, Ollie PS>>>I forgot....HOT DAY at the machine shop..3 AMC blocks a 196,my 232 and a 258...WoW WooW |
Posted By: scott
Date Posted: Jun/09/2015 at 4:55pm
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What year & model is the Rambler??? Will the 727 fit in the transmission tunnel?? Nice looking header, who makes it?? Tugboat captain sounds like a cool job!! |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Jun/09/2015 at 5:42pm
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Scott, The Rambler is a 1966 American convertible. The 232 is 1974 and I think the 727 trans is 1976. Farna, Mr. Frank is about 99% sure it will fit the tunnel and the tape measure looks good too. It also looks like the transmission mount is mighty close too. Its going in, no matter what I have to do !! Retired is the best job I have ever had....hehehehehe Ollie |
Posted By: pit crew
Date Posted: Jun/10/2015 at 6:03am
 -------------  73 Hornet - 401EFI - THM400 - Twin Grip 20 |
Ollie wrote:Posted By: Rogue401
Date Posted: Jun/10/2015 at 11:01pm
| I think you'd be better off with a 904 unless you already have the 727. The 904 is smaller and lighter and probably doesn't use as much power on a small motor. |
Posted By: 8pack
Date Posted: Jun/10/2015 at 11:29pm
I like the way you think....
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Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Jun/12/2015 at 7:42am
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To answer a couple questions first, Scott the headers are Clifford Performance. I am going with their AMC package, headers, intake with a 2 barrel Weber and valve cover. Rogue401, yes I agree I would prefer a 904 but I have a 727 that came outa my postal jeep. Pit crew...your engine compartment looks great, thanks for the spray can encouragement. I worked on the block crack that the machine shop found. It was about 4" long and they completely ground it out. I filled the area with JB Weld and let it set for 2 days. Today I will sand it and start painting the block. The trans shop called and my 727 is ready to go. He was waiting on the converter. It was supposed to arrive yesterday. I will go pick it up today if in fact the converter did arrive. More of my ordered parts arrived. I now have all the engine stuff. Only missing my Lokar stuff and transmission cooler, but they have shipped. Here is my picture link..enjoy http://www.ollie.phanfare.com/6919970" rel="nofollow - http://www.ollie.phanfare.com/6919970 Playing cars and having fun, Ollie |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Jun/14/2015 at 7:41am
My transmission cooler arrived today. I am impressed and feel it will do the job.  It fits where I was planning on mounting it, next to the radiator, drivers side.  The cooler solves one transmission swap issue, as my radiator does not have a trans cooler. The BW was air cooled and the 727 requires a cooler.  Todays plan is get the block and head painted. Ollie |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Jun/16/2015 at 7:19am
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Great Day !!! The Rambler project is moving, pedal to the metal...in the hammer lane !!! My friend Pete got the motor built and all that's needed now are the accessories installed. I will get the water pump on, but we have decided to put on the rest of the stuff after we have mounted the motor and trans in the vehicle. It will give us more room to work on the installation mods. The last of my parts are to arrive today, the Lokar stuff. Still waiting on the intake and carb from Clifford. I am very pleased at the progress. I don't see any problem having everything ready June 28. The Rambler has to attend my Fun Run car event June 27 and then the motor and trans are coming out. http://www.ollie.phanfare.com/6919970" rel="nofollow - http://www.ollie.phanfare.com/6919970 Ollie |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Jun/21/2015 at 10:33am
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My 727 trans is now back home from the transmission shop. The guy said that the rebuild kit fixed it right up. He reminded me that it is extremely important to have the kickdown hooked up and told me how to adjust it. Have a new torque converter too. I have been playing with the gas pedal. I have one from a Gremlin and the one I bought from Lokar. Looks as if both of them will work. I am thinking more of the Gremlin set up. I think I can mount it, remove the pedal and use the pedal that’s in the car now. That pedal is mounted to the floor. It looks like I need to come up about 6 to 7 inches higher than the present rod to get a straight pull on the cable. Hard to tell until the carburetor is installed. I will have to make some kind of bracket to hold the pedal. Got the water pump, thermostat housing, fuel pump, water plugs and spark plugs installed on the 232. My hardware store did not have the fittings for my transmission cooler. I need to run them down this week.  More pictures http://www.ollie.phanfare.com/6919970" rel="nofollow - http://www.ollie.phanfare.com/6919970 I am getting all excited about pulling the 199 from the Rambler. This Saturday is my Fun Run, so the time is getting closer. Ollie Ollie |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Jun/30/2015 at 9:22am
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No turning back now...its full speed ahead !! Saturday was my Veterans Appreciation Fun Run and we had a blast. The weather was not 100% but we did have 23 hardy souls that braved the elements and turned out to honor our Vets. Got the motor and transmission pulled out of the Rambler and sat into Rapid Delivery, my postal jeep. It looks as if the BW 35 will not be a problem at all. The bell housing clears the hump great. The transmission support cross member looks as if it is almost a direct fit. The member is held on with 6 bolts thru the frame. Just looks like it will have to move back about an inch. All that has been an encouragement for the 727 fitting into the Rambler. Rapid has done it job for awhile and it will be awhile before I return to that project. Today I have to clean up the Rambler engine compartment and get the drivers seat out. I will start making the changes that need to be done. Here is my picture link. http://www.ollie.phanfare.com/6919970" rel="nofollow - http://www.ollie.phanfare.com/6919970 Got to go play cars. Ollie |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Jul/02/2015 at 7:42am
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Got a few items cleared up today. Worked on the speedo cable. It was almost rusted into the housing but I got it all cleaned up and greased with Vaseline. The pulse generator will fit the cable so my electric speedometer will work. Found out the ballast resistor that has been in the vehicle since I have owned it was not supposed to be there. Removed it and added proper color coil wire. Played with my gas pedal and have decided to go with the Gremlin pedal bracket. Looks as if my stock gas pedal will work. Had to fabricate a fitting to hook the Lokar throttle cable to it. Cleaned up the fire wall. Will paint it today. I have updated my picture link. Ollie http://www.ollie.phanfare.com/6919970" rel="nofollow - http://www.ollie.phanfare.com/6919970 |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Jul/05/2015 at 8:57am
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I have been busy working on the engine compartment. The engine compartment wiring is now completed. I had to run new starter wires and add a solenoid. Just about done with the eng compartment paint. A bit more yellow to paint today. I am sure happy with the spray can paint. Matches great ! My plan was to be ready to put in the motor Monday, but I am not going to make that. I need to get the transmission cooler and the gas pedal completed first. Most of today I will be watching paint dry. The re=power project is pretty much on schedule. I need to be finished up by the last weekend in July as we have a big car show. NSRA Appreciation Day.  More pics .... http://www.ollie.phanfare.com/6919970" rel="nofollow - http://www.ollie.phanfare.com/6919970 Ollie |
Posted By: pacerman
Date Posted: Jul/05/2015 at 10:25am
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Looks good. Car shows do provide the incentive. Joe ------------- Happiness is making something out of nothing. |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Jul/08/2015 at 8:34am
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A lot of progress to report.... All the wiring is completed. I by-passed the original neutral safety switch and will use the nss on the 727 trans, replaced the original fuse board as the cardboard was falling apart, wired in the new grounded starter solenoid, removed a ballast resistor and a few other tighten ups.  I am going to hook up the battery and test everything today. The starter solenoid should click when I ground it out. The backup lights should work when I put the 2 brown wires from the nss switch together. I freshed up the undercoat under the transmission hump. I have one gallon of old school tar based undercoat. Transmission cooler is mounted and the gas pedal and throttle cable are done. If my electrical tests go good, I will be ready to put the engine in tomorrow. Ollie more pics... http://www.ollie.phanfare.com/6919970" rel="nofollow - http://www.ollie.phanfare.com/6919970 |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Jul/10/2015 at 7:42am
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Moving On !!!!! All of my new fuse boxes checked out good. Had one minor issue but figured it out. I had a hot wire for the courtesy lights that I had to get out of the system.  Now for the sad part. I killed my ignition switch with kindness. The solenoid wire was loose on the switch and I put my 3/8 socket on it and tightened it up. I also checked all the other connections for tightness too. This was not the thing to do. During my final quality control test my ignition switch was not working in the start position. It was sending power to the solenoid in the run mode not the start mode. I guess my tightening the 50 year old connectors broke something in the switch. I have a new switch on the way. Plans are to get the motor and trans in today. Ollie |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Jul/11/2015 at 8:20am
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Great Day in the AMC Business...!!!!!!!!!! Motor and transmission are in the Rambler. The transmission bolted right up to the transmission cross member. The only thing we did was turn the post jeep trans mount upside down. Tunnel clearance is perfect. It looks as if the floor shifter out of the jeep is going to work, but it looks like I will have to fabricate a new linkage rod.  I having fun, hope you are too Ollie |
Posted By: pacerman
Date Posted: Jul/11/2015 at 8:52am
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If you get a chance, post a picture of that floor shifter. The regular AMC shifter (in the cars) is an odd duck and although it works well, they are getting scarce I think. Joe ------------- Happiness is making something out of nothing. |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Jul/12/2015 at 4:21pm
Joe, here are pictures of the postal jeep shifter.    Its made mighty simple. I think I can fabricate up something. Its going to be uniquely AMC. A lot of progress on the Rambler. Starting to look like a real car now. Ollie |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Jul/13/2015 at 7:46pm
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Progress might be slow at times, but better than no progress A bit of destruction before progress...  Got the shifter from Rapid installed. I bet I am one of the few Americans with a postal jeep shifter.  Had to shim the shifter up a bit off the floor/hump, but everything else are the original parts from Rapid. Needs a bit more adjustment or as I should say tweaking by Ollie MotorSports...  |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Jul/19/2015 at 8:23am
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Still a work in progress but I have been working. Shifter is completed, adjusted and works fantastic, maybe not a speed slap shifter but a cool AMC piece anyway. Tore apart my old console for a template for the new one. I had a major design fault in my old console. I have an electric speedometer, oil pressure and amp gauge and it so happened that when you were driving down the road the spoke of the steering wheel lined up perfectly with the gauges and you had to look either up or down to see them. This will be corrected in this model.  Engine compartment is completed as far as I can go. I got this side of the engine ready to light off and start playing AMC.  This side??? Looks mighty bear. Still waiting on Clifford Performance. I am not to impressed by Larry the head honcho, seems to be unable to keep his business moving at reasonable rate. I ordered his header, intake, Weber carb package the 28 May {charged my credit card the full amount that date} and still no intake yet. Almost tired of calling him...standard answer....will ship this week...  Hope you are having fun with your AMC, I am. Ollie more pics... http://www.ollie.phanfare.com/6919970" rel="nofollow - http://www.ollie.phanfare.com/6919970 |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Jul/19/2015 at 7:28pm
I worked on the console today. It was 96 degrees in my shop. Hard to get outa the air conditioned house.  Didn't get to far from the fan either !!Sneak pre-view....  Have fun, Ollie |
Posted By: rocklandrambler
Date Posted: Jul/20/2015 at 1:19am
The console looks good, Ollie  What's the blue digital gauge in the center?------------- Past AMC's 1974 Hornet X (new) 1975 Gremlin X (new) 1964 Classic 660 Cross Country 1965 American 440-H |
Posted By: 67 Marlin
Date Posted: Jul/20/2015 at 9:26pm
| Cool console! I like seeing MacGyver stuff like that. |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Jul/20/2015 at 9:29pm
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The center gauge is my Dakota Digital electric speedometer. My dash unit was making noise so I attached a generator to the cable and went electric. Works great. I expect I will have to recalibrate it when the Rambler gets moving again. Played with my console a bit today. Ollie |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Aug/02/2015 at 12:07pm
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Time for a update.... I had to go thru some body repair myself, but proud to report that I am doing great since my gall bladder surgery. The staples come out in a 2 more days. I know the operation was a success as I am not full of gas any more !!!! Now some may disagree ...I know I am full of hot air...no gas now....hehehe  I have been doing little stuff on the Rambler...wired in the neutral safety switch. I ran the wiring thru the firewall and out the floor where I cut out for the shifter. My first job after surgery and the lift was the life saver. Worked on my console as that was a lot of sitting down at the table. It is ready for final installation and assembly in the Rambler. Got the new floor insulation in. That was a lot of bending and stretching, but I think good exercise.  Next will be the carpet. It will be my first interior cut and trim yourself carpet job. I did the trunk and back seat of the Rambler and now I am cutting loose on a real interior floor. I have watched many others going in. Got plenty of material if I don't my first attempt.. Good news continues on !! I got an E-Mail from Clifford that my intake manifold has finally shipped...... Might be my first beer day when it arrives...  Having AMC FUN hope you are too, Ollie |
Posted By: scott
Date Posted: Aug/02/2015 at 1:59pm
| Keep the updates coming! |
Posted By: billd
Date Posted: Aug/02/2015 at 5:31pm
Can't wait to see the car We've had days like that here for quite a while this summer. Today was another. The extreme heat and extreme humidity combined with near-record rains (7" in a day, most of that in one evening) its near impossible to work in my shop some of these days. Much of July I wasn't able to take the heat with the heat index up there so high. That console is turning out nice. Maybe I should have you make one for me! -------------  http://theamcpages.com" rel="nofollow - http://theamcpages.com http://antique-engines.com" rel="nofollow - http://antique-engines.com |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Aug/05/2015 at 7:58am
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Both myself and the Rambler are on the mend....my surgery staples come out tomorrow. Still the hot weather marches on....it used to be a big thing our string of 95 degree plus days, now the latest string is 100+ days! I give the Rambler a few hours in the AM and late evening. Interior carpet is done. Its my first, I cut, carpet job and I am OK with it. Didn't cut many back flips, but I learned a lot too. Not going to use any matts, when that carpet wears I will replace it. Now I can move on to the final wiring; which is getting the new ignition switch installed and the final stages of the console. The console must be wired, dropped into place and the last 2 pieces attached. I think it will be much more pleasant under the dash with these staples out. They are kinda poking me. My Clifford intake finally showed up and I been working on that system. Had a thread yesterday talking about running the water to the intake, I have decided to do it the way Clifford wants. It will have shut off valves to isolate it if the heater does not work to sporty. I have fabricated a bracket for the fuel pressure regulator.  I will get the manifold and headers in and torqued today. More pictures: http://www.ollie.phanfare.com/6919970" rel="nofollow - http://www.ollie.phanfare.com/6919970 Having fun with my AMC stuff.. Ollie |
Posted By: billd
Date Posted: Aug/05/2015 at 8:09am
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The stock water warmed intake from 81 up has water heat and a ceramic heater directly under the carburetor. That is controlled by a relay which is controlled by a temperature sensor. When the water temp reaches something like 165, the electric heater shuts off. For the after-market intakes with water warming, what about using an inline heater valve? A lot of AMCs, or for that matter, other makes, should have a heater valve you could use to either bypass the water through the intake to a bypass hose, or shut it off on either end depending on how you plumb it. Like a real heater core, you only really need to block water either going in or coming out to prevent heating the intake should it not fit your fancy. You could then run a simple vacuum control, or a simple cable like a choke cable, and open or close it never opening the hood. Vacuum would be simple - AMC used vacuum switches for the HVAC, or even use the vacuum switch from, uh, say an Eagle 2wd/4wd switch. Move a lever, push a button, pull a cable/knob and shut the water heat off for the intake. Me, around here I'd leave it going as it's only going to be the same temp as the engine stat regulates at and with our moist air and cool AMs we need the intake heat. I've frozen throttles solid and I mean SOLID, on AMC 6's before when I didn't have manifold heat on a cool spring or fall morning when the humidity was high. I saw ice hanging on the carb, frost on the intake and the throttles stuck at about 1500 RPM. ------------- http://theamcpages.com" rel="nofollow - http://theamcpages.com http://antique-engines.com" rel="nofollow - http://antique-engines.com |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Aug/05/2015 at 8:29am
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Bill, Like your ideas. I was planning on 2 valves but I see you only need one. Cold starting is not a Mississippi issue. Upper teens are rare. I personally feel this water thing is complete over kill but I am just trying to go with the FLOW....(inside water joke..  )Nothin' but a thing...hehehhehehehehe Ollie |
Posted By: billd
Date Posted: Aug/05/2015 at 9:40am
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hardeeeharharhar LOL. Must be that southern humor. Dealing with the hot and wet you have to have it to survive, I guess.  The water heat is not for starting, it's for after it's already running, to keep the carburetor from getting cold due to the effect of the expanding air flow through it. It may be 80 degrees out but that carburetor throat and the top of the intake will be much cooler. Too cool doesn't bode well for fuel atomization, etc. Yeah, you want cool intake air, but when your middle school physics kick in, after the air, now with fuel hopefully, flows through the venturi it enters a larger area and expands. As a gas expands it's average temperature drops - and it takes heat energy away from surrounding things, like the carburetor throat and the part of the intake directly under the carburetor. The effect can be enough to literally cause the throttle body or lower part of the carburetor to reach sub-32 degree temperatures. The cooler air, especially if moist or humid, can't hold all the water vapor that was in it before it entered the carburetor so it loses it at the carburetor throat, the throttle plates, etc. You now have a throttle area that is 32 degrees or lower even if the air temp is 40 or 50, and you have water vapor condensing on these cold parts - and you have ice. The ice can restrict the idle and off-idle circuit outlets, collect in the region around the throttle plate and so on, causing it to run like crap or like I experienced, freeze the throttle plates into position, literally. I've seen a whole lot of iced up carburetors on AMC 6s over the years - when the heat riser valve got stuck wide open (rust, carbon, etc. or in my case I installed headers and a different intake and no longer had a heated intake at all) and the cool, not cold necessarily, but cool weather drive-ability stunk to say the least. Poor idle, hesitation, rough running and so on. Fix the problem, drive-ability came back. There are a ton of variables, but cold carburetor throats explain a lot of driveability issues and we fixed a whole lot of plugged exhaust cross-over passages on V8 cars of all makes and models, including AMC, but especially certain other makes - and fixed a lot of heat riser valves on AMC engines over the years. You'll know soon enough if you want or need it or not. ------------- http://theamcpages.com" rel="nofollow - http://theamcpages.com http://antique-engines.com" rel="nofollow - http://antique-engines.com |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Aug/09/2015 at 1:32pm
Finally got the Clifford manifolds installed. Had a bit of adversity but surmounted and survived. I had made a post in 6 cyl engines regarding them. Had to do some fitting. Console is completed. I think it came out good. Got the passenger seat back in. Going to hold off on the drivers side seat until I am sure the gas pedal works good.  I will make one more console. A cup and fire extinguisher holder between the buckets. It has been so hot here that my work schedule has completely changed. I start work at 7 AM and shut down at 11 AM. Today at 11 it was 94 in my shop. Got to get going on the carb and water hook up. Hope to fire up on Wednesday. More pics: http://www.ollie.phanfare.com/6919970" rel="nofollow - http://www.ollie.phanfare.com/6919970 Have Fun, Ollie |
Posted By: scott
Date Posted: Aug/09/2015 at 4:44pm
| You do nice work! |
Posted By: RebelRay
Date Posted: Aug/09/2015 at 8:49pm
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Ollie, It's coming along nicely! I like the new console. Ray -------------  http://theamcforum.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=62739" rel="nofollow - Click here to check out my 65 Classic Wagon build thread!
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Posted By: smudge
Date Posted: Aug/09/2015 at 8:58pm
| looking great! |
Posted By: billd
Date Posted: Aug/09/2015 at 9:00pm
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I am very impressed by your console work. Nice job. Keep it up and you may be getting orders for custom consoles. (one such order may be from me) ------------- http://theamcpages.com" rel="nofollow - http://theamcpages.com http://antique-engines.com" rel="nofollow - http://antique-engines.com |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Aug/11/2015 at 12:54pm
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Back in the engine compartment now. Hope to get fired up by the end of the week. I have made posts in the engine section under Clifford Headers. That is all sorted out now. Had some fitment issues, all solved. Had some carb issues, but that is solved. I don't personally like the way the carb sits but that's the way it ended up to work. Got the fuel pressure regulator mounted.  Working on the water to the intake now. Fabing some brackets. Ollie |
Posted By: rocklandrambler
Date Posted: Aug/11/2015 at 1:27pm
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Lookin' good, Ollie Don't forget the line to the vacuum advance on the distributor. ------------- Past AMC's 1974 Hornet X (new) 1975 Gremlin X (new) 1964 Classic 660 Cross Country 1965 American 440-H |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Aug/12/2015 at 3:11pm
We are mighty close to firing the Rambler up !!!! I am getting excited too as I know the Rambler wants to run !! Plumbed water to the intake. I used heat shrink fittings as I would have had 300 lbs of metal clamps.  All I am lacking now is getting the Lokar cables hooked up. Hope this doesn't turn into a nightmare, my luck has not been running to good with this Clifford package. More pics.. http://www.ollie.phanfare.com/6919970" rel="nofollow - http://www.ollie.phanfare.com/6919970 Listen for the rumbling sound from the Southland...{The Rambler} Ollie |
Posted By: billd
Date Posted: Aug/12/2015 at 3:25pm
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You are a hoot. Let us know when you are about to fire it up - I'll stand and listen carefully for it. ------------- http://theamcpages.com" rel="nofollow - http://theamcpages.com http://antique-engines.com" rel="nofollow - http://antique-engines.com |
Posted By: RebelRay
Date Posted: Aug/12/2015 at 3:59pm
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Ollie, I'm so envious! I just got a gasket set for my motor, let alone getting it in the car and ready to run! She looks mighty fine, my friend. Good job! Ray ------------- http://theamcforum.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=62739" rel="nofollow - Click here to check out my 65 Classic Wagon build thread!
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Posted By: rocklandrambler
Date Posted: Aug/12/2015 at 4:02pm
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Ollie, what are those heat shrink fittings on the hoses? I don't think I've ever heard of such a thing. Is this a new technology? Inquiring minds want to know. ------------- Past AMC's 1974 Hornet X (new) 1975 Gremlin X (new) 1964 Classic 660 Cross Country 1965 American 440-H |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Aug/13/2015 at 7:46am
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The shrink fittings come from Gates. They are called Power Grips. Slip them on and shrink down with a heat gun. They are really marketed for big trucks and have been around for about 5 years that I am aware of. These particular ones come from NAPA, but are made by Gates. They are fairly expensive, about $3 a piece for the heater hose size. They have many different sizes for all water hoses. The only draw back is they are one time use. You must be extremely careful when cutting them off or you will cut the hose too. They have worked great for me and never a failure. Keep having fun with your AMC...I am going to try to get all my Lokar cables run today. Ollie |
Posted By: billd
Date Posted: Aug/13/2015 at 8:13am
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I like the clean look. I may just consider those for my baby Eagle. Good info, thanks. BTW - still waiting for that rumble from your direction......... ------------- http://theamcpages.com" rel="nofollow - http://theamcpages.com http://antique-engines.com" rel="nofollow - http://antique-engines.com |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Aug/14/2015 at 8:02am
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Bill.. your ears are working good...no rumble yet, but closer. Worked on the carb linkage today. My Lokar bracket showed up and I had to fab it a bit and mount it up side down. Its not going to work. Not enough room between the bracket and carb to mount the hardware, also the angle of the cables is off bad.  Back to the drawing board. Ten hours later I finally came up with this set up. I used the bracket that was supplied for the jeep, drilled holes in it, drilled holes in the carb linkage plate, rigged, cursed and had fun...????....etc.  I think I am on track now. My gas pedal has room for improvement but it is working and will "get on down the road" for now. Today's project is to hook up the kickdown cable. That should go a lot smoother. I hope all this effort is worth it. I am mighty disappointed in Clifford Performance, to say the least. The only reason I purchased the kit is because Larry told me he had the brackets to hook up a Lokar setup. Man was lying to me. No support what so ever. You buy the junk and the parties over, not even rudimentary directions. This is all supposed to be fun, have to remind myself of that fact occasionally. Maybe today might be the day for fire up. My buddy Pete wants be here too. We have my wife's family reunion Saturday, so it might even be Monday. Ollie |
Posted By: billd
Date Posted: Aug/14/2015 at 8:26am
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Take a deep breath or two, enjoy the reunion - as much as anyone can, and the car will be there fresh for you later. (easy for me to say, but I can never follow that.........) It sure looks nice anyway. ------------- http://theamcpages.com" rel="nofollow - http://theamcpages.com http://antique-engines.com" rel="nofollow - http://antique-engines.com |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Aug/16/2015 at 8:03am
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Had a great time at the wife's family reunion, about 75 hardy souls and of course a few car guys included in the bunch. I did run down a lead for a forum member that is interested in a pair of 1966 Americans "For Sale" in Corinth, MS. Hope the deal goes thru for him and better yet for me as I am interested in a couple of parts myself. Worked more on the linkage to the Weber for the Rambler. This is my final version.  Now for the worst part...FAILURE...totally unacceptable...it looks ok after rigging and drilling the Jeep bracket but the pull geometry is off. My 727 kickdown cable does not adjust properly. I am totally discussed with Larry at Clifford Performance. The first question that I asked him was "Is the Weber set up to receive Lokar cables?" "Yes, not a problem, got all you need" was his lying answer to me. I bought his kit based upon that lie and its been down hill for me since. Bad decision on my part. Now, I have formulated a new plan. It is quite simple... Step 1...Get an Elderbrock carb adapter plate from Clifford or any other source Step 2...Install a 500 cfm Elderbrock 4 barrel with Lockar brackets Step 3...hook up same and lets fire up the Rambler Step 4...Play with my new Rambler stuff and jet carb to my satisfaction My carb friend, who unfortunately, knows nothing about Weber told me to leave the fuel regulator in place and adjust it to 5 psi as the Elderbrock will preform better. This build has sure went smooth but dealing with Clifford was a big mistake. He has managed to really screw me up, just starting with waiting 2 1/2 months for the manifold. Now this nightmare. In true "junk car" tradition..no problem.."just throw money at it" Anybody got a Clifford 08-1014 carb adaptor for sale??? Having fun, Ollie |
Posted By: rocklandrambler
Date Posted: Aug/16/2015 at 12:17pm
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Hang in there, Ollie. It may be an expensive "hard row to hoe" but what you document here now may save another forum member much grief in the future. Have a cold one on me. ------------- Past AMC's 1974 Hornet X (new) 1975 Gremlin X (new) 1964 Classic 660 Cross Country 1965 American 440-H |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Aug/19/2015 at 9:10am
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Yes, Rocklandrambler, trust me I will spread the word to all I can regarding Clifford Industries. I will make a big write up in the cheers and jeers section hoping that others will see it and avoid doing business with Lying Larry at Clifford Industries. Everything we do in life is a learning experience and it always seems that the most valued experiences cost the most. Anyway...I am not letting it get me down !!!! I have ordered all my "new" stuff for the fuel management issue. All my Summit stuff arrives today. I could not find a adapter plate so had to order one from Clifford. Of course he had to ship it UPS ground from CA so it won't arrive till Friday. I have removed my rigged up gas pedal. I have a new floor mounted pedal arriving today and that will be my todays project. I went ahead and changed my the rear leaf springs. Not real happy with the stance but that can be addressed later.  Planning on a Friday evening fire-up !! Having AMC fun, Ollie |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Aug/20/2015 at 12:51pm
My order from Summit arrived and I got my new gas pedal in the car. It sure is a quality piece. I have almost 2" of movement. If that is not enough for full open throttle I will need a 1" spacer for the pedal. Carb adapter is supposed to arrive Friday. Planning on a Friday afternoon fire-up. Ollie |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Aug/21/2015 at 8:36am
Built the center console today. This is the section that goes between the bucket seats with the cup holders. Today should be the "Fire up" day. My carb adapter is on the ups truck. I am all pumped up. Big AMC day today, Ollie |
Posted By: RebelRay
Date Posted: Aug/21/2015 at 9:15am
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Looks good, Ollie! Good luck with the first start up! ------------- http://theamcforum.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=62739" rel="nofollow - Click here to check out my 65 Classic Wagon build thread!
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Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Aug/21/2015 at 8:52pm
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Big Rambler day.....but still no rumbling sound. SATURDAY Fire-up! Cordova is creeping up on me My Clifford carb adaptor arrived at 1100 am and started work with a mighty gleam in my eye. I saw immediately that we had fitment problems with the Lokar cables. Pressed on and of course had more issues.  My gas pedal upon initial hook up was not opening the four barrel. I knew I had pedal issues because I was not getting full pedal travel. My Billet Specialties gas pedal is 2 1/2" movement. Rocket science tells you all this hotrod stuff is marketed together. I have learned this, trust me, its a fact...Edelbrock carbs, with Lokar cables need 2 1/4" of pedal cable travel to work.. You need this much cable travel for your Torque Flite transmission kick down cable to work...aka 727, 904 Chrysler trans. Had my mind set for a Friday evening light off but my buddy Pete, whom built the motor, got a good flat bed wrecker call and called me and asked, "How about Saturday AM fire up"? "Great, I can fix more problems." was my answer, with a shy of relief. Worked on my gas pedal and got full travel after I added a 1" spacer. I am ready for start up now. Next plan is to add a 2" carb spacer. It will move my Lockar cables above the valve cover. Part on order. I set the carb in this direction because I read at a Ford 6 cyl site that the ventures line up better with a Clifford manifold this way. After a few beers and looking I agree. Saturday??? Hope so, Ollie |
Posted By: billd
Date Posted: Aug/22/2015 at 12:01am
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I hope you don't lose all your low-end torque with a big spacer and that large carb on those big runners. You need velocity to get instant fuel into the stream otherwise there's lag as the air movement is slow or low and it could have trouble pulling fuel in through that Edelbrock, which doesn't have the best venturi design on the market anyway. You'll likely have high end, but I sort of fear for the low end as things are so wide open, well........ Ah, but you are about to find out, right? Soon we hope? ------------- http://theamcpages.com" rel="nofollow - http://theamcpages.com http://antique-engines.com" rel="nofollow - http://antique-engines.com |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Aug/22/2015 at 7:02am
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Bill, Hopefully real soon on the find out. I got a spacer with venturi's, hoping to solve that problem. My Lokar cables would sure be better off with more clearance.  With a 2" spacer the bottom on would be as high as the top one in the pic. Ollie |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Aug/25/2015 at 8:57am
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Hi Everybody... Monday was the day...the Rambler fired up, with only a minor bit of adversity. The fuel pump had to be replaced was about our only major issue. It sounds great with the open headers, oil pressure great 40 at idle and 60 at speed. Vacuum 19.5 Temp 180 Today Pete is coming with his roll back and we are headed to the drive train shop for a drive shaft.... Ollie |
Posted By: billd
Date Posted: Aug/25/2015 at 9:32am
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Very good oil pressures, the temp spot-on for that engine, and the vacuum likely good for how you have it built. Nice. I have to get up to about 1500 rpm for my 390 to settle down to 19 - 20" vacuum, otherwise it's 10-15 and moving around a bit at idle and just off idle RPMs. The 4.0 has very very good vacuum. The XE cam with 113 degree LSA keeps the vacuum up so I didn't have to wonder if the stock injection would have a cow or not. I later found it is a bit more forgiving, but I hate swapping cams in 6s once they are in the car so I was happy with what I put in it, and still am. The thing I REALLY wish I had done different is the exhaust. I have kicked myself in the butt hard since I put that thing in wishing I had given it more thought. I still feel like taking it to a shop and telling them to put bigger better pipes on it and if they can do so clean up to the exhaust header, go for it. But on an Eagle, that's like asking them to break their arm in 5 places so they can get to the front pipe. We'll just say in the case of a 4.0 in an Eagle, the front pipe is a dog of the female persuasion. (nothing against dogs) So, we get to see it in a few days? Hope so - I'd like to see what and how you did a few things. I like how clean that thing is going together. ------------- http://theamcpages.com" rel="nofollow - http://theamcpages.com http://antique-engines.com" rel="nofollow - http://antique-engines.com |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Aug/25/2015 at 12:14pm
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Bill, I think all is going well and still planning on the Cordova trip. Issues I am aware of now, trans leak at dip stick tube, water issue, one of my plastic water connections broke (new part failure)and that's it for now. Driveline shop told me he hopes to finished with the drive shaft today. Muffler shop tomorrow. I will keep you exhaust post in mind. Definitely need a X pipe. Ollie |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Aug/26/2015 at 3:52pm
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Finished up at the driveshaft shop. He tried to add a 12 slip joint to the original Rambler shaft but it was an inch to short. Had to make a complete new drive shaft.... Moved the Rambler to the muffler shop... Ollie |
Posted By: billd
Date Posted: Aug/26/2015 at 4:01pm
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Now you are getting me REALLY anxious to see this car.
------------- http://theamcpages.com" rel="nofollow - http://theamcpages.com http://antique-engines.com" rel="nofollow - http://antique-engines.com |
Posted By: dltowers
Date Posted: Aug/26/2015 at 6:09pm
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Ollie.... Piece by Piece....Part by Part....Day by Day.... ------------- Original Owner, 1974 Javelin: 360ci,2v,727TC. Motorola Multiplex with 8-Track. G4 Plum exterior with 421Q Black Uganda Interior. Purchased on July 16, 1974 from Hooker AMC, Sherman, TX for $4500.20 |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Aug/27/2015 at 12:13pm
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The Rambler arrived back at the homestead today. I never heard it run at the muffler shop. We fired it up, started on first crank and sounds FANTASTIC !!!!! Got to get the transmission dip stick leak fixed. Will remove it, put in bigger fatter "O" ring and seal with transmission fluid compatible RTV. Want it to sit all night and cure good. Tomorrow the fun begins as I take my first mini cruises and play with the kick down and carb tune... I am on a natural AMC high !!!!! Hope you are having AMC fun too. Ollie |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Aug/28/2015 at 7:42pm
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I put 50 miles on the Rambler today. I live .3 mile from a 4 lane hwy with 70 mph speed limit, its all hwy miles. I use the ramps for stopping and starting. Not really satisfied with the transmission shifting but Pete, my Master Mechanic, after an intensive exam says "drive it" !! "Put 200 hundred miles on it and call me Monday morning with a report." was his orders. I agreed. Today I ran with the stock carb. Got 22.5 mpg. It feels like it is to rich to me. Tomorrow AM is stock carb and 2" spacer added. 50 mile AM run. Afternoon run will be a different configuration. Ollie |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Aug/29/2015 at 4:31pm
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Test and Tune for Cordova continues at a lightening pace. At this point in time it looks as if all systems are go for the Rambler. I have put 160 miles on yesterday and today. My transmission is shifting better all the time. I think Pete was correct. I like the 2" spacer on the Edelbrock, I think it preforms and sounds better. It is a bored spacer. I think the extra fuel atomization is better....hey, its my opinion.  I have stepped the Eddy down 3 stages, 12%. That's as far as the book goes. I am going to call tech support and see if they have info for 2 more drops. I think it can handle one more. My fuel mileage was 22.7 on my last 50 mile run, idling a lot better at stops, temp dead on 180, oil pressure great. My temp dropped from 190 after my first Eddy lean drop. I felt it was running to rich. Got to get back to the muffler shop Monday. I need a flanged section that runs thru my transmission mount. I can't remove the trans mount bracket. I need to be able to pull the trans. Got a couple of issues that need to be addressed before the trip to Cordova. Ollie |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Sep/04/2015 at 12:25pm
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I have experienced a major set back with the Rambler. Just part of the "classic car" thing, although it is extremely distressing; threatened to haul all my car junk to the scrape yard; BUT; I have now calmed down and life looks better. Oh, the set back....transmission failure. I knew it was coming but it was actually shifting better. I got the motor running really good. Called the trans man and he was surprised and said he will make it right. I don't have the time before Cordova to get the Rambler up and ready for a 2400 mile trip. The Rambler's little brother, a wanta to be AMC, aka. wife's Focus, will be placed in the game as a back-up; while The Rambler rests on the sidelines !!!  Expect more Rambler action after Cordova. Ollie |
Posted By: RebelRay
Date Posted: Sep/04/2015 at 7:39pm
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Sorry to hear that, Ollie. That's how the old car hobby is sometimes. I'm sure you'll have her sorted in no time. ------------- http://theamcforum.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=62739" rel="nofollow - Click here to check out my 65 Classic Wagon build thread!
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Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Sep/22/2015 at 11:04am
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Been awhile since an update... Sure was hoping to drive the Rambler to Cordova but it was not meant to be. Had to go in the wife's Focus but we had a great time anyway. Got the transmission out of the Rambler and found the issue to be the torque converter. Took the transmission over to the rebuilder and he took it apart while I was there and not a problem inside the trans. Had to order a new converter, none on the shelf so it will be ready to go 10 AM Thursday. Should be ready for our trip to Houston to the Lone Star Regional. Ollie |
Posted By: billd
Date Posted: Sep/22/2015 at 11:24am
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You could still drive the car to Cordova next weekend, just that there won't be any of the rest of us there.........
Maybe now that the bugs are hopefully finally worked out you can enjoy it for a spell. There's always next year. ------------- http://theamcpages.com" rel="nofollow - http://theamcpages.com http://antique-engines.com" rel="nofollow - http://antique-engines.com |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Sep/24/2015 at 8:01am
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Off to get the trans and converter. Hopefully we are up and running by quitting time today. (5pm) Ollie |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Sep/25/2015 at 5:35pm
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Transmission and converter installed and working perfectly. Second time was the charm. The whole issue was a bad rebuilt converter. USA built too. I bought a "new" 1992 Ford Ranger, V-6 (blown), AOD automatic today for $400. Rear end is going in the Rambler and the carcass to the recycle yard. Next weeks project. Please don't get on me to hard for abandoning my Dana 15 but it will be a much needed cruiser upgrade for my Rambler. Having AMC fun, Ollie |
Posted By: dltowers
Date Posted: Sep/26/2015 at 4:31pm
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Ollie, Glad to hear that you are getting the Rambler back on the road, keep us updated.... P.S.....We anxiously await the "Re-Start" of the "Rapid Delivery Project"....
------------- Original Owner, 1974 Javelin: 360ci,2v,727TC. Motorola Multiplex with 8-Track. G4 Plum exterior with 421Q Black Uganda Interior. Purchased on July 16, 1974 from Hooker AMC, Sherman, TX for $4500.20 |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Sep/30/2015 at 7:31pm
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Been hard at it. The rear end project is moving on. I know it was kind of added to the mix of "Re-powering the Rambler" as a last minute thing. I have worked on the Dana 15 before and parts are difficult. I just ran across this Ranger for $400 and I just couldn't pass it up. It is going to be a great up grade. The only down side is I just got the drive shaft down and I can see that it is going to be too short.... Rear end is out...  Cut all the perches off today on both the 7.5 and the Dana 15. Tomorrow the 7.5 goes in the Rambler.  Having AMC Fun.. Ollie |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Oct/01/2015 at 5:01pm
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WOW......its great when things go 100% in the correct direction. This is not usually the case in the old car business.. But it does happen !!!!! [<:o)] Scrap Ranger left today .... $$  The 7.5 rear end almost fell into the Rambler. Drive shaft hooked up big time....u-joint and length..PERFECT... I don't know what kinda tape measure I used yesterday...  Tomorrow is going to be brake day. Still has the factory clips that go over the lug studs... More pics.. http://www.ollie.phanfare.com/6919970" rel="nofollow - http://www.ollie.phanfare.com/6919970 Enjoy your AMC, Ollie |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Oct/02/2015 at 1:38pm
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Lazy Friday today. A friend who is our resident "pinion angle expert" came over to the shop and checked the Rambler. 2.01 was the outcome. Not to shabby for old dead eye Ollie. Welded the perches. Done did deal !!  Pulled the brake drums and shoes about 3/4 gone. Will replace the shoes and wheel cylinders and turn the drums. Ordered all the brake parts; be delivered today. The new 2:73 ring and pinion gear arrived via FedEx today. Monday will be a big day. Ollie |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Oct/06/2015 at 3:36pm
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I DROVE THE RAMBLER TODAY !!!!! Installed the 2:73 ring and pinion.  All new brake shoes, turned drums, new steel brake lines and rubber hose.  We got everything done about lunch time. After lunch I drove to the muffler shop with open headers. Transmission was shifting perfect, both up and down. My trip was too short only about 3 miles. The Rambler should be home tomorrow. Ollie |
Posted By: dltowers
Date Posted: Oct/06/2015 at 4:36pm
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Great News Ollie, we are waiting on you to post a video w/audio of this event.... ------------- Original Owner, 1974 Javelin: 360ci,2v,727TC. Motorola Multiplex with 8-Track. G4 Plum exterior with 421Q Black Uganda Interior. Purchased on July 16, 1974 from Hooker AMC, Sherman, TX for $4500.20 |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Oct/10/2015 at 9:30am
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Dickie, I will try to get some audio posted. The Rambler is really sounding good. Went on a shake down cruise yesterday to Newton, MS. Had a couple of minor issues. Had to adjust the transmission linkage as it was not wanting to go easily into park. Issue solved. The transmission is staring to shift a lot smoother now. Still need to play with the kickdown cable a bit more to gets the shifts where I want them. My buddy in Omaha is sending me some more carburetor rods and I will try one more bigger rod. Another stage leaner. The muffler man did a great job on flanging my pipes for future removal; hope it never happens, but must be prepared. The bolts loosed up as they got hot. I think that one more support needs to be added. Monday the Rambler goes to the spring shop. I want the rear end picked up 1 3/4" and a leaf added to the springs. Here is a picture of me bonding with the Rambler.  Enjoy your AMC, Ollie |
Posted By: dltowers
Date Posted: Oct/12/2015 at 5:24pm
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Ollie, you look as happy as a 16 year old that has their first car. ------------- Original Owner, 1974 Javelin: 360ci,2v,727TC. Motorola Multiplex with 8-Track. G4 Plum exterior with 421Q Black Uganda Interior. Purchased on July 16, 1974 from Hooker AMC, Sherman, TX for $4500.20 |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Oct/13/2015 at 9:08am
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Dickie... On closer inspection you will realize that my sly looks are most probably alcohol induced !!! Got the Rambler to the spring shop yesterday. Told Rusty to make my rear well height 22 1/2 inches tall. It is now 21". He said it would be done by Wednesday. You are correct Dickie...I am getting mighty excited about the Rambler. Looking forward to driving it all over America. Finally got the drivetrain for that; 232, 727 torqueflite, 7.5 LS Ford axle. (My 2 weaker links, the M-35 and Dana 15, are gone) I have sure found out there is a big difference between the 199 and the camed (256 Supercam) up 232. My credence: Buy 'em Build 'em Wear 'em out Have fun with your AMC, Ollie |
Posted By: 232jav3sp
Date Posted: Oct/13/2015 at 10:20am
| Great work, Ollie! Don't know why I didn't visit this thread sooner! |
Posted By: 232jav3sp
Date Posted: Oct/13/2015 at 3:06pm
| One other thing... What throttle cable bracket did you use? I'm guessing Lokar? It LOOKS like my factory cable will work, if I can come up with a bracket. If not, I'm going to have to go the Lokar route. |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Oct/14/2015 at 8:34am
Yes, it is all Lokar and their carb bracket too. I went 100% Lokar because the Rambler was originally mechanical linkage and I had no mechanical kickdown for the 727 transmission. I even had to change the gas pedal, got it from Billet Specialties. Ollie |
Posted By: 232jav3sp
Date Posted: Oct/14/2015 at 8:17pm
| Gotcha'. I couldn't remember if I had saved the throttle cable bracket from my car. Hence why I asked. But, I looked where I thought I left it, low and behold, there it was! If it doesn't work, I'll go Lokar. |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Oct/18/2015 at 2:25pm
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The Rambler is now officially... ROADWORTHY Deep South Suspension completed adding a leaf and re-arching my leaf springs. Set my rear ride height to 22 1/2". Exactly what I wanted. Last time we arched the springs to much.   The Elderbrock is tuned in and Lokar transmission kick down is adjusted just like I want it. I really like the 2" spacer, gives me more performance at highway speeds; just where a highway cruiser vehicle needs to be. I am ready to close this thread out; fire up The Rambler and go wear it out touring AMERICA in my American. Need to rest up my junk car rehab skills and get to work on my shop. A lot of "shop improvement" projects to do this winter. I will be getting my AMC fix by working on Rapid Delivery occasionally. Watch for that here in Members Projects. A link to more pics... http://www.ollie.phanfare.com/6919970" rel="nofollow - http://www.ollie.phanfare.com/6919970 Have AMC Fun, Ollie |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Feb/28/2016 at 8:16am
It has been a long time coming but I have finally got the interior done. The seats and door panels came out fantastic. I cannot believe how much the black instead of brown seats changed the vehicle.  I have put 3000 miles on the Rambler since the major re-powering and I can say that all of the kinks have been ironed out. It came out better than I suspected. Its been on a few local 300 mile trips but his first big adventure is just around the corner. Going to the NSRA Show in Oklahoma City, April 7-10.  A lot more pictures if interested. Just click any album. http://www.ollie.phanfare.com/" rel="nofollow - http://www.ollie.phanfare.com/ Having AMC Fun, Ollie |
Posted By: roguedoug
Date Posted: Feb/28/2016 at 8:57am
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Well done enjoy, enjoy and be proud! ------------- 67 Rogue Convertible 232 2bl Auto Royal Blue 33A "ROSEBUD" 67 440 American 232 4D 08-72A "CLAUDIA" AMO 10493 |
Posted By: RebelRay
Date Posted: Feb/28/2016 at 12:10pm
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Looks great,Ollie! You've done her proud. ------------- http://theamcforum.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=62739" rel="nofollow - Click here to check out my 65 Classic Wagon build thread!
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Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Aug/01/2016 at 8:41am
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The Rambler has been in the crusin" groove. BUT......I am still getting some highway vibration that I don't like. I have decided that it is bad wheels. So I have decided to try this..  I have called the Concord into action !!!!!!! I am going to try these 195/75/14 tires and wheels on The Rambler.  I will report the outcome shortly. Having AMC Fun, Ollie |
Posted By: Midnight Rambler
Date Posted: Aug/01/2016 at 10:41am
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Could be wheels, it may just be tires. When I got mine I found a crack in the ring on my flexplate which resolved most of a vibration issue, and new tires eliminated the rest. Given the work you did, I would think the flexplate isn't an issue and you'll see good results on the wheel/tire swap. Car looks great, you should post some video! -------------  '66 American 440 Convertible 290/M-40/AMC 20 3.15/PS/PB '04 Jeep Wrangler X Rocky Mountain Edition 4.0 5sp |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Aug/02/2016 at 8:16am
The results of yesterday's wheel and tire swap are in !!!! As you can see the wheels and tires that were on the Rambler are now on the Concord. All my vibration went away with the swap. The 45 mph shimmy is a thing of the past. Now even more good news. I have been planning new wheels and tires for The Rambler and was going with 15" but I have now changed my mind. I am staying with the 14". I got my desired results with the 195/75R/14 tires. I dropped my RPM's 200, and gained 2 miles an hour over the 185/70R/14's I was running. When I purchased the 185's my concern was to keep the speedometer accurate, which they did, but now I have a electric speedometer that's a non issue. The 14" wheels I want are cheaper than the 15's and the 195/75R/14 is a mighty common 14" tire. Here is The Ramblers present status:  Right now I am in a bit of a financial stress. Not having the status of a Government innate I cannot write bad checks and just call it a deficit !! It's almost unbelievable !! In a couple months, after my major house upgrades, I will be back on track. The tires off the Concord are cheapo WalMart Douglas. The fronts have less miles than the rears, but all are mighty fair tires. Going to flip them over, white walls to the inside, rebalance, splash of new black wheel paint and go with them. They will make the September NAMDRA Cordova run and the October Atlanta AMO Regional run. My treasury should be restocked by then and its new shoes for Baby. As always.... Having AMC Fun, Ollie |
Posted By: Ollie
Date Posted: Aug/10/2016 at 3:41pm
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The Ramblers new look with his new tires & wheels... Wife says the all black look is real muscle car !!!  Having AMC Fun, Ollie |
Posted By: roguedoug
Date Posted: Aug/10/2016 at 3:49pm
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Nice! Like the look and stance. Doug ------------- 67 Rogue Convertible 232 2bl Auto Royal Blue 33A "ROSEBUD" 67 440 American 232 4D 08-72A "CLAUDIA" AMO 10493 |