Ben\’s 1967 Pontiac Firebird 400 Rod & Restoration

Both the rear suspension and the new Hedman headers came today so I got right to work.  Of course, as I unbolted the passenger side leaf spring bracket, I found that it was bent and rotted.  Great.  Tack on another $45.  (TC – $10340) AND…  This great weekend I had planned to fix everything is totally shot since I have to wait until they ship it on Monday, so it can get here around Wednesday.  And due to a super low rear end with the springs off, it’s impossible to get under the car to check the headers.

Now that I think about it, however, I have all the parts necessary to re-install the new spring on the driver’s side, which should give me ample clearance to get under the car to test the driver’s header, which is the most crucial to check because of the starter clearance.  I just might be in the clear enough to get some work done.

The new headers are Hedman Street Hedders and let’s keep our fingers crossed.

The springs were the 6-leaf heavy duty bad boys from Tamraz, and they look like they’ll fit.  Finally, a break.

The suspension is bugging me. Best I can figure is since it was lowered, the guy who previously owned pulled a leaf from the springs, which has rendered them crap for my big tires. I tried to avoid it, but it seems the only solution is to buy new springs at $223 (TC – $10027). That officially puts me over the $10k mark. Woof.

I’d like to say money is no object and now that it’s not freezing outside, I’ll get more done, but I doubt it. The old lady is dying for her new scooter, and I figured I’d get it for her, but that’s a solid $4000. OUCH! I’m also still frustrated as hell with the tranny fluid pan. It won’t stop leaking! What a BITCH! I’m also still getting exhaust from the crappy header, so it looks like I’ve got to bite the bullet and get a new set. Again, I’m ready to cry.

Not only that, but I’m gonna need a new radiator if I want to drive it this summer, so that’s a bitch. I need a second job.

EDIT – I bit the bullet and bought the new header, gaskets & spring bushings, since I was going to need ’em real soon anyway.  $267.65 for all that from Summit, which I guess is pretty good (TC – $10295).  The headers are cool too, Hooker Competition.  Now to eat ramen for a month.