2004 2

3/30/06 - Leaf Springs Replaced

It was determined that sometime during the restoration the rear leaf springs gave out. Our Coronet was not originally a 440 CID engine car. Therefore, the rear springs were lighter than needs and with time had broken down. As a result we were experiencing a great deal of tire rub on the inner fender wells. We contacted SUMMIT RACING and ordered new MOPAR Heavy Duty springs for the car.

Once installed at a local shop, the new springs lifted the rear giving Big Red a more aggressive stance. The new springs eliminated the tire rubbing problem and improved the car�s road handling capabilities significantly.

8/26/06 - Bumper Jack Restored

A few months ago RHM Jr found a MOPAR bumper jack from a parts car local to the project site. He took the jack home for restoration. Only recently has began work on it and his efforts were very successful. We are in the process of getting the car in top condition to attend the 2006 Houston Area MOPAR Shoot Out and Car Show. He will be working on many overlooked details in the next few weeks in order to make the best showing possible.

BEFORE

2006 Progress # 1

8-28-06 The Latest from Under the Hood.

In an effort to correct some known mechanical problems and get the engine ready for the Houston Shoot Out, changes have been happening under the hood.

Click Image for More Details

To-Do's before the show:

* Replace stock value covers with chrome plated MOPAR valve covers.
* Replace water pump, water hose neck, upper water hose and repair the last remaining oil leak around the crank case cover. - COMPLETED!
* Locate, purchase and install an electric windshield washer system. Stay tuned for pix.
* Mount seat backs and mount MOPAR logo on the exterior sailpanel.

8/29/06 - Tinker Tinker & The New Water Pump Works Well.

A few months ago RHM JR found these nice seat belt bolt covers off of a parts car. He cleaned them up and put them in the Coronet. Little details like this make a huge difference in the authenticity and presentation of the car.

After having installed the new high flow water pump,our 440 engine is running much cooler. RHMJR, took the Coronet out for a test drive and the temperature gauge peaked below half way. Before it rode consistently just under the "HOT" level. A cooler engine means more horsepower on demand.

9/1/06 - Where Did That Come From????

While detailing the trunk in preparation for a local car show, RHMJr found something that took him by surprise. RUST,RUST and more RUST! We noticed a little water in our trunk from time to time, but we had no idea that it had wreaked havoc on the inner fender well and trunk floor pan on the passender side.

As RHM Jr began to fix what seemed like a small blemish under the trunk mat, that blemish eventually yeilded a completely rotted section that needed to be repaired.

Click Image to See This Excellent Repair.

RIGHT Click Picture & Open in New Window