1970 Pontiac Le Mans Sport Convertible 'Restification' Progress
The motor is the original 350 CID 2-bbl with a Turbo Hydramatic 350 automatic transmission. The previous owner installed a mild street cam from Competition Cams (#51-232-3, grind 268H-10), which adds a bit of punch off the line but the engine runs out of steam as the revs increase This is probably due to limits of the 2-bbl carburetor, stock intake manifold, and small-diameter dual exhaust.
We are installing a fresh motor, and will have the original 350 engine rebuilt later to stock specifications.
It was equipped with undersized drum brakes on all four wheels, which makes for "interesting" panic stops. A front-disc-brake conversion is in the works.
A complete front-end suspension rebuild is also in order.
We've decided to install GlobalWest tubular upper control arms as well as their Del-a-Lum bushings in the lower control arms. The upper control arms are advertised to correct the camber problems that plague the GM A body cars. All-new suspension components are also being installed.
We're installing 12" disc brakes on the front, as well as a fast-ratio steering box to eliminate the vague, one-finger steering typical of the cars of that era.
We've painted the firewall and front subframe, and will detail all under-hood components while re-assembling the car.
Phase I
Fresh motor, firewall-forward restoration.
- Global West tubular upper arms w/Del-a-lum bushings
- Tall spindle 12" front disc brake conversion
- Fast-ratio steering box - it isn't rack and pinion, but it's an improvement.
- Koni shock absorbers - front: 8040-1087 rear: 8040-1088
- New springs front and rear
- Rear tubular control arms
- Anti-sway bars: front 1-1/4", 1" rear
Progress photos
Motor in chassis
Engine in frame
Assembled photos
Phase I assembly: Up and running
Together again
Adventure lurks...: Garaged and ready to prowl
That's all, folks!
