Seattle area introductions with a '65 Vette coupe restomod

Travis Talbot · 10-30-2009, 05:44 PM

I've been on the forum for a year or two now but recently discovered the Pacific Northwest region area. I would like to introduce myself and my current project.

Last year I traded my FFR '65 Cobra for a '65 Vette coupe (see pics below). After I completed the build on my Cobra, I quickly realized how seldom you actually get to drive a roadster in the Pacific Northwest. So I traded my Cobra for a Vette Coupe. I drove the Vette around for most of the summer. Then last fall on a Sunday morning when I was headed to a car show, my right rear bearing froze up and my wheel came off while heading down I-405 at 70 mph. That was the beginning of my restomod transformation.

I sold my chassis, suspension, brakes, engine, tranny, etc. on eBay (minus right side wheel and hub which I never did find). I then purchased a SRIII C2 frame with C4 rear suspension/brakes and C5 front suspension/Z06 brakes. I have spent the last few months cleaning, reconditioning, and installing the rear suspension. I’m currently working on my front suspension hoping to have it installed in a few weeks. My goal is to have a rolling chassis by the end of the year.

I plan on installing a LS3 with a mild hot cam (approx 480HP) with a Tremec 5-speed. My goal is that when fished, it will become my daily driver… all the reliability and comforts as a modern Vette with the old school look.

If you ever wondered what these restomods look like under the skin, you’re more than welcome to come by and take a look at my project. I work on it most weekends. I specifically live in the Lynnwood area about 20 miles North of Seattle ...travis

duckvett · 10-30-2009, 06:01 PM

That `65 is (was?) a beautiful car!

I think I speak for everyone in the PNW forum when I say we would love to see photos of the build in progress.

RicK T · 10-30-2009, 06:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by duckvett

That `65 is (was?) a beautiful car!

I think I speak for everyone in the PNW forum when I say we would love to see photos of the build in progress.

Please consider doing a running photo essay here. It would be great to watch especially over the winter.

And congratulations on finding the PNW Forum!

vetred · 10-30-2009, 08:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RicK T

Please consider doing a running photo essay here. It would be great to watch especially over the winter.

And congratulations on finding the PNW Forum!

what he said!!

96GS#007 · 10-30-2009, 08:41 PM

Very cool

AaronZ51 · 10-31-2009, 10:57 PM

Welcome to the PNW forum. Glad the car survived the bearing issue; sounds like it will be a very nice package once it's completed. As others mentioned, an occasional update would be interesting for seeing your progress this winter.

Mr. Peabody · 11-01-2009, 12:02 AM

As someone who also drives a vette as a year round daily driver I say WELCOME and as everyone else has said .... show us some pics of your build up

Lots of really greate vette people around here look forward to meeting you when you get your vette on the road

seattle · 11-02-2009, 02:52 PM

Welcome Travis,
Your project seems like a really cool idea. Some folks would cringe at modding a C2 to that level but I think it will make for a great ride. I'll send you a PM for directions to see it.

Lead Foot 66 · 11-02-2009, 11:27 PM

Travis,

Welcome to the PNW Forum. I love the C2's, many years ago I had a '66 327 and a '67 427, both coupes.

Now we have an '08 Z06.

I think you will find many of us in the Western WA area quite interested in your project and also willing to help.

There are also some good local clubs you might want to explore as well.

I look forward to meeting you and seeing your sweet '65.

ALongtimer · 11-08-2009, 12:24 AM

Travis,
Sent you a PM regarding your project. Let me know if you received it.

Larry

HOMERLIKEBEER · 11-12-2009, 03:07 AM

Welcome travis.

Looks like we have coupe/convertible cousins.
Let me know if you have leftover parts that may just end up laying around.

I and my best friend are also in the later stages of a FF Cobra build.

Hate to see a beautiful original '65 redone, but I will get over it I'm sure.
Keep us posted (pictures) on the new project.

Travis Talbot · 12-18-2009, 03:43 AM

Several have asked that I document my build and post some pics. I've started a post in the C2 section which I will update frequently. Instead of replicating the post, I'll provide a link directly to the post when updated. Click Here for the first post.