1970 L-78 Nova Restoration; Saga of The Green Bastard
 

Funny story... How long does it take an Aviation Field Service Technician and a Mechanical Engineering Technologist to install a Nova front sway bar.

All my years of playing with Novas and a few Camaros and I didn't know you have to put the bar in place BEFORE putting in the coils.

Had to split the lower ball joint on one side and remove the caliper rotor and backing plate on the other side.

Now I know !!

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Just Awesome! Plus the lower control arm bolts are installed correctly too! I often see them facing the wrong way.

Looks great - enjoying this thread....and the car.

Question for the group (not being picky - just trying to learn) about the water pump bolts not being painted orange. I always assumed the water pump was on the block when painted, I've seen several instances now on restorations where the pump bolts are not painted. Is there a reason for them not being painted engine color? TIA

Beautiful restoration for sure. Your attention to detail is amazing! This is about where I am with my 70 Z/28 restoration. It’s been a 10 year process, but I’m getting down to the end. Wish I was smart enough to post pics! I dropped the engine and trans back in, then went to Florida for the winter!
Buddy

Yes, probably should be painted. I didn't have the correct bolts until after the engine was in... Part of the added stress of getting parts to Canada (add a week for shipping and a Saturday to run to the border) :burnout:

I can show you how to post pics...or do them for you :)

Should have installed the sway bar before you dropped the engine in place. I'm sure it would have gone right in. Doing a great job!! Can't wait to see it done.

Curious if you had the car sitting on those risers when you attempted to install the bar. I have swapped bars in first gen Camaro's with the suspension hanging free and they are tight, but do go in.

My favorite part of Big Block Novas has always been
the radiator position, shroud mounting and the fan, makes them really
unique compared to other Chevys of the same vintage.
Their short nose makes them look good but made packaging a little tricky.

You are the best Bruce! I’m down in Florida for the winter. I will reach out when I get home in April!
Buddy