IFS in my 55 project-start

[Kim57]

That's looking real nice.
Kim

[_Ogre]

nice truck vjjack
you'll be amazed at the handling change from the straight axle
did you do the original build?
is there a build thread?

[52 Rat]

The truck, engine and garage looks great!

[vjjack04]

Originally Posted by _Ogre

nice truck vjjack
you'll be amazed at the handling change from the straight axle
did you do the original build?
is there a build thread?

I am hoping the IFS is as good as it looks. It is a Scotts item. I bought the truck, it was an old restored piece. I am putting the front, engine and interior in it. The first page of this is the best build thread I have. Thanks.

[vjjack04]

Ok,
Put the engine in today (I will add pictures later) but the neat, tall, retro valve covers hit the fire wall, by a lot. I took them off to aid putting the engine in...and when I went to put them on, I found that they are too tall. Did mention that I need them tall to clear the roller rockers as well. Now my options are to see if there is another set that clears the rocker but not as tall; modify the fire wall ( really don't want to do that), or I was thinking I could cut the backs of the valve covers (make a notch on each side, and have someone TIG weld them back together.....I will take some pictures and add in a bit.
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[52 Rat]

Originally Posted by vjjack04

Ok,
Put the engine in today (I will add pictures later) but the neat, tall, retro valve covers hit the fire wall, by a lot. I took them off to aid putting the engine in...and when I went to put them on, I found that they are too tall. Did mention that I need them tall to clear the roller rockers as well. Now my options are to see if there is another set that clears the rocker but not as tall; modify the fire wall ( really don't want to do that), or I was thinking I could cut the backs of the valve covers (make a notch on each side, and have someone TIG weld them back together.....I will take some pictures and add in a bit.
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I have moded aluminum valve cover as you mentioned to clear firewall, ac/heater box etc. Not too bad if you have room around the roller rockers. Good luck.

[Rude Dude]

I know you already painted the frame why not move the engine 1 inch forward looks like you have the room, tranny mount is easy just maybe drill a couple of extra holes. Also cheaper than having valve covers tig welded

[vjjack04]

Originally Posted by Rude Dude

I know you already painted the frame why not move the engine 1 inch forward looks like you have the room, tranny mount is easy just maybe drill a couple of extra holes. Also cheaper than having valve covers tig welded

Good point, but I am not sure that wont be a hassle either.

I think the valve covers (cal custom) are much taller than needed.

It looks like I can, at about the 2 inch point, slant them back 30ish degrees and get them to work......I'd cut it, get it lined up, then get someone to weld it, grind and polish....but also, I put a pair of stock height steel edelbrock valve covers on it and they fit....I wonder how much is really needed for the roler rockers....?
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[vjjack04]

Also, I wonder, or it seems, that the AFR heads have a more built up area where the valve covers mount - the stock height edelbrocks seem like they clear the roller rockers.....Im going to cut one in half to check clearance to see if the rockers hit....it doesn't look like they do....
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[Russell Ashley]

I had the same clearance problem with stock engine mounts and those same after market tall valve covers. Stock Chevy valve covers have slanted ends so I got a set of those and they solved my clearance problem. If they will fit over your rockers it might be something to think about. You can probably find them chromed if that's a requirement but I blasted mine an painted them silver and called it good.

[Rude Dude]

Have you set the distributor in yet if valve covers hit I hope you are not using HEI (Big One) , small one will work.

[vjjack04]

Originally Posted by Rude Dude

Have you set the distributor in yet if valve covers hit I hope you are not using HEI (Big One) , small one will work.

Yeah,
I am using the factory distributer with an electronic module in it.

[Scottshotrods]

Here is one more option for you.We can build you set of off set motor mounts that will look the same as you have now and this will push the motor forward.If you want to do this let us know

Justin

[vjjack04]

Originally Posted by Scottshotrods

Here is one more option for you.We can build you set of off set motor mounts that will look the same as you have now and this will push the motor forward.If you want to do this let us know

Justin

Justin,
Thanks and good to talk to you on the phone. I know we discussed a new motor mount and that is what I will likely do. But the idea to cut .5 inch out of the existing one and add a "shim" to the back might be worth me re-considering - I don't think it would look that "hacked"....I will let you know.

[vjjack04]

Originally Posted by Scottshotrods

Here is one more option for you.We can build you set of off set motor mounts that will look the same as you have now and this will push the motor forward.If you want to do this let us know

Justin

Justin,
Have decided I need new motor mounts. I sent you and e-mail with pictures.

Thanks.

[vjjack04]

ok, fixed the engine problem (hitting fire wall) -Justin at Scotts sent me some motor mounts that move the motor .5 inch forward....that worked. Stiill had to tap the firewall some to get these tall valve covers to fit....see pictures.

[55Cameo]

Motor looks great sitting between the frame rails there!!!

[vjjack04]

Originally Posted by 55Cameo

Motor looks great sitting between the frame rails there!!!

thanks man, still a long way to go....I am looking for different headers with an exit toward the back of the heads/motor, still gotta get the trans cross member done.....and other stuff......but hope to get it on the road in May....

[BC Toy chest]

Truck looks gr8 bro can't wait to see it when it's done.

[ChuckDriver]

It's looking good, hope you make your deadline!

[Rude Dude]

These headers were on craigslist here in Socal

http://losangeles.craigslist.org/sfv...937017762.html

[vjjack04]

Thanks guys, and thanks for the reference on headers. I have actuall seen some on eBay that would work. I bought the shortys I have from e-bay and they are made pretty well.
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[Kim57]

Looking real nice.
Kim

[vjjack04]

ok,
After a while of dealing with issues, work, and other things I am finally to a point where I can get moving on my truck. I got the truck on the road, and I can tell you...the Scott's IFS is absolutely great....I have not had it aligned yet so there is a lot of positive (or is it negative) camber, so need to fix that....but the front end drivability is great....this thing drives better than my 2006 GMC.......I would and will recommend the Scott's IFS to anyone....see the pics...

[Chevette]

From the pictures it appears to be "positive" camber. But lookin' good none the less.