 |  | | | Anybody who's done a comprehensive resto project knows that it doesn't always follow a straight line, nor a precise timetable. You might thrash on it for several weekends in a row and then let it sit idle for months in a sort of automotive limbo-land. That's where Larry Weiner's '65 GTO has been up until recently, but now he's getting busy with it again.
Previous projects included bodywork, paint, color sanding, and upholstery. Now we're getting down to the engine. Even though this particular vehicle has some unique features, the approaches used on it apply to a wide range of resto projects, so you'll likely find some helpful tips and tricks for all sorts of older cars and trucks.
421, Anyone?
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For instance, even though the engine looks visually identical to the 389 cubic inch motor found in the factory car, Weiner had to replace it after discovering some severe cracks in the cylinder block, and used a 421 ci block instead. It preserves the correct period look, yet pumps out about 50 more horses without breaking a sweat. He obtained the block from a reputable supplier, but made sure to sonic-test the metal to check for thickness and any hidden flaws before proceeding with the buildup.
Since the car is more of a boulevard cruiser than a hot rod, the internal mods are fairly mild, emphasizing reliability and simplicity over extreme performance. In addition to having the block decked and the cylinder bores align-honed, Weiner installed hardened valve seats, because the engine now runs on unleaded fuel.
Also, other components subject to age and wear were replaced, including the pistons, oil and water pumps, camshaft, timing chain, pushrods, lifter, and gaskets. Since the rpm range is fairly low, valve float is not a big concern, and the original hydraulic lifters for the valvetrain were left stock.
Accessories
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With the engine test-run, it was now time to add the accessories and dress-up items. In some cases factory replacement or reproduction parts could be used, available from companies such as Year One and Ames. In other instances, aftermarket components were necessary. As an example of the latter type, the Milodon oil pan has an extra quart of capacity, providing better lubrication and cooling for the internals.
For the correct period treatment, Year One supplied a number of items, such as the reproduction stamped-steel Ram Air pan underneath the Tri-Power Rochester carbs. Interestingly, an original GTO Ram Air pan might run as high as a thousand bucks, but a fiberglass repro costs about $140, and a metal one $395. It's a simple piece, but in short supply, hence the high prices.
Save Everything
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The chromed lids for the air cleaners are also from Year One, but Weiner had to recondition his original inner screens for the reproduction foam elements, because those are no longer available. (Tip: save everything on an old car, because you never know what is and isn't available from parts suppliers.)
Year One also provided a new wiring harness for the GTO, which is a good thing to replace on an older car. The only other item that needed freshening was the radiator core. The upper and lower tanks are factory original, but the core was replaced, and a new clutch fan installed as well.
Next we'll cover the running gear: steering, spindles, control arms, brakes and wheels.
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