1986 TX DPS #M6-307 Restoration

[ChrisL]

'86 DPS M6-307 heads to KS tomorrow for complete paint and body, back to black/white! This car has lived a very rough life, but metal wise has made it through unharmed. Best I can tell, it was decommissioned and driven for a while before ending up in a san antonio salvage yard "car lot". The title wasn't ever salvaged, but the car was sold by pick-n-pull and then put into drag racing duty for many years. As stated, the metal is all good but the interior, engine bay, and rest of the car have been hacked to pieces. It needs everything, completely interior including all harnesses (blue), completely engine bay harness, lines, motor, trans, etc, as well as paint, suspension work to go back to stock, and everything else.

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPS-1.jpg

I have the correct blue manual door panels for it, but want to find a low mileage '86 blue interior-ed donor car to pull the dash and all plastics, seatbelts, seating, etc out of. I have a line on a wrecked '86 that is complete for the engine, harnesses, etc so I hope to pick that up when the car gets back from paint.

The hardest piece that I know I will have finding for the outside is the DB702 white antenna. I need one, so if anyone has a line on one, please let me know. I will also need all of the correct equipment for the car, as I don't have any of it yet. If anyone has correct '86 Texas DPS equipment, please PM me. I have not done enough research yet on what I need, but will soon. I have the wheels and caps and a line on some spotlights.

She's rough, but deserving of restoration. I'll follow up this thread with all pictures I get through the process!

[ImEvil1]

Chris,

Almost the exact story as my '83 DPS car. I have the correct radio and DB702 for you when you're ready (dashlight as well).

Why KS, though?

[MOstang]

Congrats on reaching this stage.

[ChrisL]

Mike, I have a good friend in KS who is refinishing the body/paint for me. He's a magician with these cars, and although this car isn't awful, it's not great either. Looks like it was brush painted; its bad.

I'm sending a PM to you right now about the equipment!

Mike #2, thanks for the congrats! I'm glad I made it this far too!

[ImEvil1]

Mike, I have a good friend in KS who is refinishing the body/paint for me. He's a magician with these cars, and although this car isn't awful, it's not great either. Looks like it was brush painted; its bad.

I'm sending a PM to you right now about the equipment!

Mike #2, thanks for the congrats! I'm glad I made it this far too!

PM back to you.

Sounds like a good friend!

[Rhino]

That's going to look nice one it's painted and back. Little by little...it's coming together! :)

[28HopUp]

Chris, congrats on getting to this stage. Your SSP is going to look awesome! Be sure to have your friend take plenty of pictures during the work.

[ChrisL]

Ok, more neat (to me) information today.

Looking back through my title history, the farthest back I have is 1998, when the car was sold at auction and a new title was issued. Come to find out, the car was left abandoned at a storage unit in 1998, which happens to be 2 blocks from the very place that I have stored the car for the last year! (my buddy has a shop there, this is the "field" you see the car in). Unreal! Once it was abandoned, they sent it to auction, the auto parts yard in San Antonio bought the car and sold it in their car corral for $850. After that, it's been passed around like the village bicycle to every drag racer in SA.

Pretty cool. Updates will follow as I receive them.

[ChrisL]

The teardown stage... the car is pretty much stripped. Ready for the core support replacement and then lots and lots of sanding the nasty paint off of it.
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/resized2.jpg
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/resized1.jpg

[GSPI]

Man! I have to say that's a lot of work. Truly an excellent undertaking.

[ChrisL]

It's definitely a big undertaking, but '86 DPS cars are so few and far between I couldn't let it keep living such a rough life. She's going to be a pampered princess now!

[GSPI]

Sounds like it has a good future ahead!:2thumbs:

[ChrisL]

DPS progress continues. Engine bay is stripped, little prep left to go before the reshoot. Core support is replaced, no more bent up support! And one of the hole for a lightbar at some point (discussed in the other thread). She's coming along, and I think I might have found a nice blue interior for her!
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPS2-1.jpg
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPS1-1.jpg

[ChrisL]

Ok, no go on the nice blue interior. If anyone knows of a -MINT- blue '86 coupe interior for sale somewhere, please let me know! I'm in desperate need of one!

[ChrisL]

The DPS car is inching closer! Pretty soon she will be wearing a tuxedo scheme!
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPS3-1.jpg
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPS4.jpg

[GSPI]

Sure is looking good there Chris!:thumbsup:

[FHP813]

That's the way to do it! :2thumbs:

[ChrisL]

Thanks guys!

[sspanthony]

Thanks guys!

Making good progress !!!!!!

[ChrisL]

M6-307 will be wearing new paint in the next couple of days! Pictures to come....

[ChrisL]

The white is on!
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPS5.jpg

[ImEvil1]

Nice....

[GSPI]

Definitely nice!

[ChrisL]

Thanks guys, I'm getting pumped!

[28HopUp]

VERY nice! :thumbsup:

[ChrisL]

Thanks! Also guys, where do I need to go to get the correct decals for the car? It will get permanent decals, and I'll tape over them when I take it to shows (although I doubt it will ever get driven, it will most likely be trailered).

[NoDrama43]

Thanks! Also guys, where do I need to go to get the correct decals for the car? It will get permanent decals, and I'll tape over them when I take it to shows (although I doubt it will ever get driven, it will most likely be trailered).

Excellent progress. Tony Sharp may be able to get decals still if you contact him. I don't believe he ever joined here but I am not sure.

Awesome idea to tape over them when travelling. Trailering is an even better idea especially if it is marked and says state trooper etc.

[ChrisL]

I'll see if I can track him down.

And there's no way I'd drive it on the street with the decals displayed, but I don't want to do magnetics as this is not a car that will ever see street duty unless being taken to a show. I'd rather it just be authentic and be marked correctly. At least for a little while, it should be the only restored in-service '86 DPS in the country! :)

[ChrisL]

Painted!
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPS6.jpg
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPS7.jpg

[28HopUp]

Sweet! The reflection in the black 1/4 panel looks nice and deep.

:D

[FHP813]

Who said it takes a year to paint a car? I could have trailered my 86 to Texas had it painted and been ahead of the game. Congrats on getting to this point. Car is looking great!

[ChrisL]

This is before the cut and buff, so the paint is super nice but it's only going to get better! It was literally painted about 5 hours ago. To say I'm excited would be a vast understatement!

[GSPI]

Absolutely a phenomenal job in such a short time! Be careful on the cut and buff!

[ChrisL]

And just to clarify, I can't take credit for this work. It's being done by a very good friend of my in Kansas. And yes, he works extremely quickly and does absolutely incredible work. All emblems, lenses, and rubbers are ordered! She should start really coming together here in the next few weeks!

[MOstang]

Lookin great...congrats. :thumbsup:

[ChrisL]

The paint is coming along!
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPS-2.jpg

[NHPcars.com]

I think I can even see my reflection in that paint...WOW!!!:thumbsup:

[ABN2060]

Phenomenal work!!!!

[ChrisL]

More progress... I can't wait!
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPSpaint.jpg

[Bri22NJ]

Looking great. :)

[MOstang]

WOW...very nice!

[28HopUp]

Awesome! How excited are you are this point, Chris?

[ChrisL]

I'm about to explode I'm so excited. She still has a really long way to go, all of the mechanical stuff is still waiting to be done... but I'm pumped!!!!

[NoDrama43]

very nice. I think this is the only 4 eyed Texas car that will be restored that we know of right? Glad to see it coming together !

[ImEvil1]

Looks great!

[ChrisL]

very nice. I think this is the only 4 eyed Texas car that will be restored that we know of right? Glad to see it coming together !

I think it should be, that's kind of the goal!

Thanks for all of the compliments everyone, pictures as they become available!

[GSPI]

More progress... I can't wait!
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPSpaint.jpg

I needed to bring this image over to this page of the string... this is really a very nice job Chris! I can't hardly wait to see this car done!

[FHP813]

WOW! so far she's looking great. :2thumbs:

[ChrisL]

More progress! The engine bay is coming together, new master cylinder and all of the wiring back in. Motor is getting refinished and will go in next, then onto the interior.
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPS8.jpg
And the best news, finally found blue seats! This has been the hardest part, I've been looking for a year. So the interior is complete now, just waiting to be installed. Also found and had a single-key lockset re-keyed and it will be getting installed, so the SSP flare is starting to come together as well.
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPS9.jpg
Hopefully in a couple weeks she'll be back running again!

[gixxer1]

Car looks great! Nice job man.

[GSPI]

Absolutely fantastic Chris! Truly a stellar job and I look forward to seeing this car done.

[1989 Tx DPS SSP]

Hey Chris nice to visit with yesterday in Austin ! Once you get it up and running we need to shoot over to Tx DPS Fleet and show the car to Fleet.

Tom

[ChrisL]

Thanks Tom, great to get to visit with you again and see your beautiful TX DPS once more! I'm excited to get to join the club soon, and I think we will definitely need to run the car up to fleet to get their blessing on the authenticity!

[Mack]

Wow, impressive!

[ChrisL]

Almost ready to be running again. Probably the first time in 20 years or so under EFI power.
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPS11.jpg

[predator20]

Very nice. Is it '86 spec? Or did you go with the better '87 and up heads?

[ChrisL]

Very nice. Is it '86 spec? Or did you go with the better '87 and up heads?

It is full 86 spec, will have original mufflers and exhaust as well, I want it to be as true to the original car as I can get.

[calimustang]

Damn nice job! I absolutely agree with you on how hard it is to find blue seats or let alone a nice complete regetta blue interior set! :(

What color did you use to paint your motor like that?

[ChrisL]

Regatta is so tough to find! The paint is Ford Engine Gray, standard color for '86!

[calimustang]

Yep i feel your pain... Nice job on the engine! I believe i used the same color, by Rustoleum. You used the same thing?
Regatta is so tough to find! The paint is Ford Engine Gray, standard color for '86!

[NoDrama43]

was the engine block painted on an 86?

[ImEvil1]

was the engine block painted on an 86?

No. Natural (no finish) from '82 on.

http://vb.foureyedpride.com/showpost.php?p=1057795&postcount=14

http://vb.foureyedpride.com/showthread.php?t=96205

[ChrisL]

Oops! I stand corrected it seems. I really don't care to put a rusty block back in the car though, so it will have an over-restored look. Which is fine with me, it will still look the part.

[ImEvil1]

Oops! I stand corrected it seems. I really don't care to put a rusty block back in the car though, so it will have an over-restored look. Which is fine with me, it will still look the part.

You could always blast it and clear it, too.

[NoDrama43]

I use a paint product called "Cast BLast". It makes the block look like it is a brand new cast and unrusted engine block. It also lasts a long time if you prep the block properly.

[ChrisL]

Thanks for the recommendations guys! I'll use that one the next one for sure.

[Mustang Kid]

I use a paint product called "Cast BLast". It makes the block look like it is a brand new cast and unrusted engine block. It also lasts a long time if you prep the block properly.

Great product:yes:

I always thought the blocks were painted black, but I learned something new today:D . Using cast blast is the way to go:thumbsup:

[GSPI]

I use a paint product called "Cast BLast". It makes the block look like it is a brand new cast and unrusted engine block. It also lasts a long time if you prep the block properly.

I was wondering about that too. There is a gray paint code showing for that year that Chris and I discussed yesterday. The nature of the forgings of that engine out of the Cleveland engine plant would have allowed for it to be a raw block for a short while.

Interesting!

[ChrisL]

EFI powerplant for the first time in many years!
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPS12.jpg
And it will need new springs (cut) and shocks, those will be done when the suspension phase starts...
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPS13.jpg
And the Marti Report! Pretty dang cool:
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPS14.jpg

[28HopUp]

You're making GREAT progress, Chris! Thanks for documenting your build with pictures and sharing them here...

[NoDrama43]

very nice Chris

[GSPI]

Yep, lots of progress and it looks great!!

[ChrisL]

Thanks guys! More progress as it comes through!

[ChrisL]

Dash is in, and front suspension phase is starting! New shocks, springs, brakes, calipers, lines, bushings, etc etc etc.
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPS15.jpg

[ChrisL]

Sourced some low mileage takeoff Mufflers, I have tailpipes as well....
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPS16.jpg

And all of the new hardware (well not all of it, but some of it) for the front suspension... just waiting for new bushings to go back into the arms then it's time to install the front brake system. Sadly it will all be covered by wheel/tire!
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPS17.jpg

And the beginning of the blue interior install.
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPS18.jpg
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPS19.jpg

[ABN2060]

That is going to be a beautyfull car when you are done. Very nice!!!!

[NoDrama43]

looking great Chris.

[GSPI]

Absolutely fantastic work there Chris! By the way, are those interior panels re-dyed or are those originals? They look great so I was curious.

[predator20]

That's one hell of a restoration. :)

[ChrisL]

Thanks everyone. Greg, most of the interior pieces are original. The seatbelt sleeves had to be dyed, as I needed new ones and they don't make them in blue. Headliner and carpet are new, however. Finding nice, original '85/6 regatta blue pieces was not easy!

[03cobra]

Thats a beautiful job Chris! Well done!

[Wolfe1013]

Hey, Chris, do you have the snap on covers for the top point of the seatbelt? I grabbed a pair of red ones thinking I could dye them tan, but I scored a pair of tan ones in great shape last weekend. Since you have the regatta blue dye, you can have this pair of red ones if you need them.

I also lucked out on the matching tan seatbelt sleeves (door side - buckle side were trashed).

Let me know. Btw, awesome restoration!!

Greg

[ChrisL]

Greg, thank you for the offer. Let me find out on those and let you know, I really appreciate it. And Jason, thank you for the kind words!

[sspanthony]

Car is looking "Fantastic" Chris; very nice job !!!!

[calimustang]

I totally know what you are talking about for 85/6 Regetta blue pieces.. i'm feeling the pain for 87-89... only scored 93's but its a tad lighter but close enough for now.
Thanks everyone. Greg, most of the interior pieces are original. The seatbelt sleeves had to be dyed, as I needed new ones and they don't make them in blue. Headliner and carpet are new, however. Finding nice, original '85/6 regatta blue pieces was not easy!

[ChrisL]

It's alive!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yc1i_TgUfVI&feature=youtu.be

[28HopUp]

VERY nice Chris! You're making great progress with that car.

[MOstang]

Awesome! Congrats getting to that point.

[scoutdrivinrebel]

Cool!

[GSPI]

Very cool indeed Chris! Looks great... are you reworking the rear axle too (noticed that it was missing in the video)?

[ChrisL]

Yup, rear axle is getting all new internals (3.08s, correct for the car), shocks, springs, brakes, etc. Should be minty fresh!

[86NeSSP]

Been a couple of days... Anything new with the car?

[ChrisL]

Not much that's photoworthy yet Matt, but the rear end is rebuilt and ready to install. Waiting on isolators for the new springs. Then she sits back down on the ground, and makes her maiden voyage under EFI power for the first time in a decade or two! Delivery back to Austin is set for October 8th, you better believe I'm pumped and that there will be a plethora of pictures!

[calimustang]

SWEET! I know how you feel to have her fired up for the first time after a very long time of hibernation...

[ChrisL]

She inches closer...
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPS21.jpg
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPS22.jpg

[Wolfe1013]

:2thumbs: better get something for that itch. I know you can't wait for that first drive! :)

[ChrisL]

Just a couple details left and she is done! Got word that the maiden voyage went great today!

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPS23.jpg
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPS24.jpg

[GSPI]

Car is looking fantastic Chris! When is this one coming home?

[ChrisL]

She will be home Oct 8th! Thanks Greg!

[28HopUp]

That's GREAT! I hope the time between now & then passes quickly for you Chris. :)

[03cobra]

Wow Chris car looks super! Cant wait to see it at a Texas event.

[scoutdrivinrebel]

So nice...can't wait to buy it from you someday. ;)

[Mustang Kid]

I'm drooling:D
Great progress!

[GSPI]

She will be home Oct 8th! Thanks Greg!

I guess I'll be beginning the journey by Oct 3rd and you will be near the end of yours in a way! Very cool!

[mac88chp]

I guess I'll be beginning the journey by Oct 3rd and you will be near the end of yours in a way! Very cool!Restorations get finished but they're never truly "done." :)

[OSP959(R)]

M6-307 will be wearing new paint in the next couple of days! Pictures to come....

The car looks great. But more importantly, thanks for saving it and preserving it.

[ChrisL]

Thanks for all of the compliments everyone, much appreciated! I can't wait to get her back to Austin and mount the SSP wheels and gatorbacks up... then the lengthy process of finding and installing service equipment begins! Hopefully she will be on the show circuit soon!

[ChrisL]

Here she is!

I have to thank my friend Dan for all of the work he did on this car. He did an absolutely incredible job, and this car would not be what it is without him! I don't have the time nor skill that he does for restoring cars, and when I took this car to him it was almost ready for a junkyard in the sky. Now, 6 months later, the car is going to be a show stopper. We mounted up the SSP wheels late last night, and now I've just got to track equipment down. I have the rear antenna, the red/blues, the spotlights are headed this way, and a few other things but still have a long way to go.

Thanks again to Dan, I'll also post this in his thread. Anyway, on to the pictures:
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPS1-2.jpg
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPS2-2.jpg
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPSfin2.jpg
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPSfin1.jpg
And this may be my favorite, I absolutely love this blue interior!
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPSfin3.jpg

I'll keep updating as I start mounting equipment up!

[GSPI]

The car is sharp Chris! Keep the photos coming. By the way, the steering wheel is different than I've seen in other 85-86 cars is that with cruise? Getting more familiar with these cars so I'm asking!:D

[ChrisL]

It seems like most '85/6 SSPs were ordered without cruise, however, if they were, that wheel is the correct wheel for '85/6. The later cars had the cruise control in vertical configuration.

[MOstang]

Very sharp (to say the least)! :cool:

[ChrisL]

Thank you! I had to take a couple more for good measure!
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPSeng.jpg
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPSfront.jpg
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPSback.jpg

[chp1982]

Nicely done! Love the interior.

[NoDrama43]

looks great Chris.

and in regards to the steering wheel. my 85 texas car was ordered with cruise control. If it was ordered that way the Marti report will have it listed.

[texunter]

That's a badass car right there!
Nicely done!

[ChrisL]

Jim, it is listed on my Marti Report, see here:
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPS14.jpg

My other '86 DPS and '85 DPS both had cruise as well. Thank you for the compliments everyone!

[texunter]

Let's see the antenna on it.

[ChrisL]

None of my radioshacks had the NMO mount, but I ordered one yesterday from their website. Should have it tomorrow hopefully, and it will get mounted asap! Thank you again!

[GSPI]

Trunk lip mounting or through the sheetmetal? I keep a few of those around as a habit since I know that I'll need them at some point and the Shack doesn't normally carry those but my local ham shop does! :)

[ChrisL]

Trunk lip mounting or through the sheetmetal? I keep a few of those around as a habit since I know that I'll need them at some point and the Shack doesn't normally carry those but my local ham shop does! :)

This one mounts through the sheetmetal, there is a hole drilled in it. So I assume the mount will come up through the bottom and thread into the base. If the one that comes isn't correct, I'll get with you Greg!

[texunter]

None of my radioshacks had the NMO mount, but I ordered one yesterday from their website. Should have it tomorrow hopefully, and it will get mounted asap! Thank you again!

Glad i could help.

[badbrad]

i am in the process of re assembling my 86 xRCMP. ssp and I am embarassed to show my pics on here, but I will soon, what an excellent job, great photos for reference for me as well. I am rolling along slowly on my interior, what carpet did you get, supplier & colour, I am debating putting in my worn carpet until I can find a good used blue interior. I never had much luck with the fit of restoration carpet. what tires did you buy, looks great..Brad

[calimustang]

You shouldn't be embarrassed to show your car... you should see mine, it's terrible... and yet i still show it for the process of restoration.

[ChrisL]

Brad, I can't wait to see some pictures of your car! Please post them up! Fox Mustang Restoration ordered me the correct blue carpet from Trim Parts, who they don't normally distribute through anymore because I had read T.P. was the best. The fit is pretty awful, bad enough I'll probably have to replace it at some point. It's bunched up down by the floor, and feels like it's backed with cardboard. I heard the ACC Carpet wasn't as good, but after having this in there I'll try it. The tires are original Gatorbacks, that's why they look so good :)

[GSPI]

So the carpeting is too stiff or what? I have researched some of these carpet places and it seems that possibly the backing might be too stiff if you get the thicker backs and may seem wrong for the application. I'm looking too for a replacement for my 86 so I was curious what you are going to pick. I see that ACC is expensive too and someone like "Stock Interiors" out of SC are far less money. Just wondering what the difference is??

[gixxer1]

Very nice, car looks great!

[ChrisL]

Greg, the backing on the carpet is far too stiff and it's just not molded correctly in my opinion. I don't think ACC carpet is any more expensive than the Trim Parts I purchased, but I heard their colors don't hold up as well and fitment isn't as good. Honestly, this isn't horrible, but it's certainly not concours quality so I'm not satisfied. I've never heard of "stock interiors", if someone else gives them a shot and has good luck I'd consider it.

[texunter]

Can we see it with the antenna already ?

Chris, you will have to shorten and bend the whip where it comes out of the base. I was gonna send you one that was used but I figured you might want a new whip.
When you get it on the car, it will lean way off the right side. Bend it toward the center of the car until it looks straight from a forward or rear perspective.
I can't comment on the length though. I bought this batch of antennas from the TxDPS through an auction. They havnt used these antennas in quiet some time so I like to think they were leftover from the mustang era.
I totally dig your car! It's amazing to me.

[GSPI]

With the frequency range being between 154.000 to 159.000 mHz for Texas DPS, the whip should be somewhere around 35.9" in length for a 1/2 wave mid frequency of 156.500 mHz. That's if my calculations are right ranging between 36.47" to 35.34" respectively for the frequency range they used.

What was the used whip's length?

[ChrisL]

Thanks for the information guys! Texunter, thank you for the compliments and thanks again for the antenna. As soon as it is mounted, I'll post pictures. I've got the rear SHO-MEs mounted already, and have period Exempt plates for the car, so I'll have to take it somewhere and get a couple pictures from the back with all of the new kit installed. She's getting closer every day!

And Greg, thanks for that info on the length. I'll check that ASAP!

[03cobra]

Wow Chris cars is beautiful!!!!

[ChrisL]

Got the lights mounted up in back, she's looking sharp!
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/IMG_0446.jpg
And made a new unit number tag for it, even bought a vintage label maker to get the font close. It's not 100%, but it's extremely close.
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/IMG_0447.jpg

[texunter]

That's awesome!
Where did you find the dymo tape?

I was unsuccessful finding the NMO mount for the antenna. I'll see if the one on the Louisiana car will work.

[ChrisL]

I had the dymo tape (black) out of a new embosser from walmart, but the font was waaaay wrong. So I bought an old one on ebay and the new black tape worked perfectly!

Thanks for the help on the NMO mount! Let me know what you find!

[GSPI]

I guess there were many of these Dymo labels used on different departments too... maybe you might have found a niche for that old label maker! I know that Idaho mounted their property tags on the instrument cluster area... I got to go find mine if it's upstairs or something!

[texunter]

He's right!
I'll take a new one!
M8-545

How much?

What about the property tag? I wonder if it can be reproduced?

[ChrisL]

Ted, I'll just send you one!

[texunter]

Yeah!
Thanks Chris!

[ChrisL]

Got pulled over in the Dominator this afternoon...
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPSdom3.jpg
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPSdom2.jpg
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPSdom1.jpg

[OSP959(R)]

Man, I need a set of those Texas exempt plates for my Frisco car.

The car's looking great!

[28HopUp]

Chris, as nice as your TxDPS looks, I must say that your Dominator makes me drool!

[gixxer1]

Sweet pics...

[ChrisL]

Spotlights finally installed! Just a few details left to go! Thanks for the spotlights Budd.
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPSlights.jpg
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/dpsbacklights.jpg

[GSPI]

The car is looking fantastic Chris! I can't hardly wait to see it fully trimmed out with the equipment and decals.:2thumbs:

[1jerryl]

Chris, that thing looks fantastic!! Can't wait to see it done. One question, did that car have ruby interior originally or did DPS have a split interior color order? That may be one of best looking year/color combos out there. Keep up the good work......






Jerry
91 X-SCHP #2-12-311
90 X-NCSHP Caprice
77 Nova 9C1
83 Malibu 9C1 (Coming Soon)

[CNTLOSE]

Looks great!

[ChrisL]

Jerry, Texas was one of few, if not the only, department to order their cars in the full array of interiors. I've seen '85/6 Texas cars with Blue, Red, Gray and Tan interiors. Really makes them pretty neat, I think blue and tan are probably the most rare of the two, from what I've seen so far.

[smunczen]

Looking good.

[ChrisL]

Finally, a couple of the last missing links. Found the last SSP wheel cap that I needed (thanks!) and got my DB702 mounted up. A local junkyard has a few derelict DPS mustangs left, one of them happened to have a piece of the mount and the cable (although it's been cut, it will at least serve the purpose of the mount). So much better!
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPSantenna.jpg

[FHP813]

Looking good Chris!

[MOstang]

That is one sharp SSP! :cool:

[28HopUp]

[/drool] :D

[ChrisL]

Thanks guys! Getting closer by the day. Now I've just got to figure out exactly how and where they mounted the front lights, plus track down all of the necessary interior equipment :)

[scoutdrivinrebel]

Dang, I love this car!!!

[ChrisL]

Thanks Chris!

[GSPI]

Thanks guys! Getting closer by the day. Now I've just got to figure out exactly how and where they mounted the front lights, plus track down all of the necessary interior equipment :)

Looking great Chris! I know that I've seen many images of the front light mountings around, are you looking to mount the Able2 lamps in front?

[ChrisL]

Thanks Greg! They are SHO-ME halogens, and I'm trying to figure out exactly how TX DPS made the mount, how it was shaped, and where they attached it. I REALLY don't want to drill anything into the car until I know that I've got it right, and I need to have the brackets made correctly before I even start that. But so far, I've had no luck getting a reference picture.

[GSPI]

I know that they were not drilled but mounted as tabs on existing radiator or grill support areas that had bolts. Let me see if I can find the reference photos that I was thinking of.

[ChrisL]

Thanks Greg, I definitely appreciate it!

[Mustang Kid]

Finally, a couple of the last missing links. Found the last SSP wheel cap that I needed (thanks!) and got my DB702 mounted up. A local junkyard has a few derelict DPS mustangs left, one of them happened to have a piece of the mount and the cable (although it's been cut, it will at least serve the purpose of the mount). So much better!

What!!! No pictures? No saving them? Is it too late to save them? If they are savable people should be trying to save them:eek:

I can't wait until my SSP is as nice as yours Chris:D The car needs decals!;)

[ChrisL]

Here's the deal Sam, since you asked.

This particular guy had the contract for all wrecked DPS mustangs from 83-90/91 something like that. That being said, most of what he has is absolutely destroyed. Cars that were obviously in bad accidents, and are just plain not savable. For your consideration:

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPScars1.jpg
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPScars2.jpg

However, two cars are of interest to me. Both are '86s. One is an automatic, and has sustained a hard impact to the front. It would be repairable, but there is a kink in the driver's side door frame/rocker panel. A shame, because it's an auto, the only one I've ever seen. It is unit M6-328

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPScars4.jpg

Finally, the only car that might have some chance at life is this one. The doors are missing so no door tag, and the unit number is gone off of the jamb. But it was a real '86 DPS car, 5sp w/red interior. Very hard hit to the front, but no structure damage past that that I can see. It would need a whole front clip, subframes and all, but could be savable.

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPScars3.jpg

But as you can see, it needs literally everything. The engine is there, trans is gone, speedo gone, wheels gone, etc etc. This would have to be a real labor of love for someone. But if someone is up to the task, I'd be more than happy to PM the information!

And thanks Sam, I can't wait to see your CHP done. I know, I need decals soon! I'm working on it, just haven't made contact with the person I need yet!

[ImEvil1]

Great pics. Any '83s in there? Have all of the VINs so we can add them to the VIN project?

[ChrisL]

No '83-5s Mike :( He moved the yard in '85-6 sometime, from central Austin. At that time he had to crush a lot of what he had that wasn't savable; that included most of the rough DPS cars from '83-5. And no, I haven't gotten the VINs or car numbers. That would take quite a bit of time, time that I haven't had here recently to run out there and do...

[CNTLOSE]

Nice pictures and story...thanks for sharing!

[1989 Tx DPS SSP]

Chris, Do you think we could see if some of the SSP specific interior items can be salvaged?

Tom

[ChrisL]

Tom, I'm sure some of the parts are savable, but most of these parts have been sitting out in the open, exposed to the elements for 20 years. So I doubt many of those parts are still usable unless they are metal items.

[ImEvil1]

No '83-5s Mike :( He moved the yard in '85-6 sometime, from central Austin. At that time he had to crush a lot of what he had that wasn't savable; that included most of the rough DPS cars from '83-5. And no, I haven't gotten the VINs or car numbers. That would take quite a bit of time, time that I haven't had here recently to run out there and do...

Road trip!

[ChrisL]

Mike, if you decide to come up, please PM or email me, I'll give you all of the info you need. Bring a paper and tablet though, lots of notes could be made. You could note which cars are auto/manual, which cars have only one spotlight and which have more, etc etc.

[ImEvil1]

Will do. It would be a nice ride, especially with the weather we've been having lately. I've been to the DPS lab there a couple of times for work...but haven't had the chance to get back over there and take the tour.

[texunter]

Chris! My messages are full and I have never tried to erase any.

I have the 86 here now. What a day! An absolute whippin!

But,,, it's here and here we go!

And it's a nasty crunch.....

[Mustang Kid]

Thanks for the pics:) I'm glad that one was saved. Someone needs to save the other one. Even if someone bought it and sold it someone else that wanted to fix it, that would be good.

The cars would have one heck of a story once restored:D

You don't see stuff like this everyday...

[ChrisL]

The problem is that the 2nd car, an automatic, has a tweak in the door frame. Maybe a frame machine could pull it straight, but it's never going to be "right" again. But, I'd be ecstatic to see someone save it regardless!

[1989 Tx DPS SSP]

Mike ,, Road trip when?

Tom

[ImEvil1]

Mike ,, Road trip when?

Tom

Name it...it'll be fun.

[1988Bullitt]

Chris,

I just read through the entire thread and all I can say is wow! You definitely did one hell of a restoration! I hope to see it in person some day!

[ChrisL]

Thank you Aaron, I really appreciate the compliments!

[texunter]

With the frequency range being between 154.000 to 159.000 mHz for Texas DPS, the whip should be somewhere around 35.9" in length for a 1/2 wave mid frequency of 156.500 mHz. That's if my calculations are right ranging between 36.47" to 35.34" respectively for the frequency range they used.

What was the used whip's length?

I missed this post...

The used whip is 44 1/4 in. in length.

[GSPI]

I missed this post...

The used whip is 44 1/4 in. in length.

Was this including the coil or was it the whip portion of the antenna by itself? This length would make this in the 126 mHz range which is in the Aviation band.

[ChrisL]

Door stickers are on! Now just need front light mounts and interior equipment, and she's all set!

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPSsticker.jpg

[MOstang]

Nice! :2thumbs:

[03cobra]

Looks great Chris!

[ChrisL]

Thanks Jason! One more of the other side for posterity.
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPSsticker2.jpg

[03cobra]

Thanks Jason! One more of the other side for posterity.
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPSsticker2.jpg

BEAUTIFUL!!!!

Makes me want to get rid of my magnets....

[1989 Tx DPS SSP]

I assume you are ok with the color of the Gold. That was my biggest problem, was if they had the right shade or not.

Tom

[ChrisL]

It's actually reflective, but yeah, I think it is extremely close. It's much more of a gold-pewter color than this in person, but digital cameras always make it turn bright yellow-gold. Either way, it looks sharp and they did a great job! Super easy to put on as well, I was impressed with the whole deal.

[1989 Tx DPS SSP]

Did they Silkscreen them?

[ChrisL]

I don't believe so, they are layered.

[GSPI]

The car looks fantastic Chris! Very cool!

[ChrisL]

Thanks Greg!!!

[EXNODRAMANOTCH]

The car looks fantastic Chris! Very cool!

Looks great! I hope M-Squad gets me my door decal before the first car show in May (ordered it last October).

[ChrisL]

Thank you! Wow, that's quite the wait! I would hope it's done by May also!

[AT11]

Nice work, great looking car!!

[ChrisL]

Thank you!

[ChrisL]

I can't help it, two more.
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/SSP.jpg
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/SSP2.jpg

[Rhino]

Very nice Chris!! :)

[ChrisL]

Thanks Ryan! I saw the WSP thread the other day, your car looks killer! When does the CHP car get started? :)

[mac88chp]

That is one nice looking four-eye, great job! :yes:

[ChrisL]

Here's one I took on Sunday. Can't get enough of these two cars (both were restored for me by Dan). The green coupe is one of 6 Sage Green 5.0 '86 coupes.

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/SSPandcoupe.jpg

[CHP8336]

Very Nice!!!! :D

[ChrisL]

Getting ready for the show this weekend. She's getting close! http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/IMG_1142.jpg

[ChrisL]

One more for good measure
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPSdone1.jpg

[MOstang]

Now that's a picture to drool over. :cool:

[ChrisL]

Thank you!

[ChrisL]

Scott's car is looking so good I had to get 307 out.

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPSmustang.jpg
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/DPSmustang2.jpg

[28HopUp]

Looks great! It's been a long winter - I forgot what trees looked like with leaves...

[NoDrama43]

very nice Chris. Beautiful car.

[MOstang]

very nice Chris. Beautiful car.

+1. :2thumbs:

[CHPMustang]

Very very nice meticulous work done there Chris! We'll have to meet up at the next car event between Dallas and Austin in the near future bro :cool:

[ChrisL]

Thanks guys, I'd love to do a meetup somewhere soon!

[stadair]

Beautiful!

[GSPI]

I love seeing photos of this car! Excellent job Chris!

[sspanthony]

Chris,

You make me sooo jealous!!!! Great Job!

[Texaspony87]

Nice!! : )

[ChrisL]

Thanks everyone!

[kapracing]

Sweet :-)

[Pmustang]

Just read every post. This car and Christie Brinkley have a lot in common. Both are smoking hot after all these years.

I am floored with the job you did on this car.

Peter

[ChrisL]

Took the 86 DPS Coupe to its first show over the weekend, met Tom Mallette there also with his car. First trophy as well, participant's choice award for the show! Felt good to get the car some sunlight and have it be enjoyed.
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/photo-3.jpg

[nighthawk756]

Took the 86 DPS Coupe to its first show over the weekend, met Tom Mallette there also with his car. First trophy as well, participant's choice award for the show! Felt good to get the car some sunlight and have it be enjoyed.
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/buickgs455/photo-3.jpg

Congrats!! She looks great as always!!

[MOstang]

Looks great!

[28HopUp]

Congrats on the trophy - the car looks great! :thumbsup:

[GSPI]

Great job Chris! Well deserved.

[ChrisL]

Thanks everyone!