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I spent about 45 minutes debugging my perfect wiring job, trying to figure out why the lights weren’t working like I knew they should. Then I remembered that I had not plugged in the special headlight fuse. Of course it worked perfectly from then on. I’ve got the entire engine compartment wired (minus the few pieces I don’t have yet, like the ac compressor and the tach), all the front lights working like they should, and dancing girls giving me praise.
In the midst of deconstructing the dash, I found a problem. The previous owner, whom I’ll now refer to as El Capitan del Douche-O, took a fucking acetylene torch to the brake pedal bracket, which also serves as a major support for the dash panel and steering column. Dick. Lucky for me, a kind and wonderful guy on the Firebird forums had the exact piece I need and sold it to me for $45, including shipping. I also picked up new bulb holders for the whole rear at the parts store. ($45 & $34 – T.C. – $11454). Oh yeah. I’m guessing the bracket is in pretty mediocre shape, but I hope to get it Monday or so, and I can sand it out and paint it for next weekend.
Speaking of weekends, on Sunday there is a gigantic swap meet at the fairgrounds, and I’ve got a assload to pick up and/or shop for. So much so, I’m going to make a list.
Switches: Lights (w/ blade for park lights), Wipers, High Beam Dimmer, Center Console ideas
Shifters: B&M Quicksilver, TCI Outlaw (Not so hot on it after seeing it in person at the other show), Hurst Pro-Matic 2, which looks like the best option, since I can incorporate it into my center console design pretty seamlessly. I’m also going to keep an eye out for cool shift knobs.
Split Wire Loom: Not the corrugated shit, but the nice braided stuff.
Fog lights: I think I’m going to go with rectangles instead of my original idea for rounds. They fit better into the valance.
License Plate Light: Mine works, but it’s crappy. I definitely want another bulb for it, but if there’s a cheap-ass good-condition assembly, I’ll go for it.
Hood: Doubtful, but the savings on shipping is well worth it.
Spark Plug Wires: Red and customizable lengths. I’m also going to look for the correct PONTIAC dress up brackets for it, too. (Note to self – test fit a bolt and take it with you.)
Valve Covers & Dress Up: Check that it’s for a Pontiac 400. Best price online is $90.
Gas Tank: Again, saves on shipping. Also looking for sending unit and whatever other little fun things go with it. I don’t really know if there’s a big problem unless I pull it out, so for now, it’s just research.
Gauges: According to Covan’s, I need 3-3/8″ 160 MPH Speedo, 2-5/8″ Oil Pressure, 2-5/8″ Water Temp, 2-5/8″ Fuel Level and 2-5/8″ Volt gauges. I’d also like to keep an eye open for the gauge lights I need – directional turn signal light indicators, and a blue high beam indicator.
and finally, Flavor: Hat pins, t-shirts, ads, posters… anything I can put in the garage.
I’m sure I’ll think of more while I’n in the garage tonight, but for now, that’s a list which outlives my budget.
