CRG Discussion Forum

Camaro Research Group Discussion => General Discussion => Topic started by: cwyllie on January 25, 2022, 02:04:09 AM

Title: 68 RS/SS
Post by: cwyllie on January 25, 2022, 02:04:09 AM
Hey everyone.
I'm sure this topic has been broached many times before but here goes....
I have searched for the right car for several years and recently pulled the trigger on a "true" 68 RS/SS L34. I feel I am somewhat informed on 1st gens and have read a lot on Camaros.org. However, I would like to get some help and input from some of you that are truly knowledgeable on the legitimacy of a 68.
What is the best way to go about this? I have seen many replies from Ed. Is he the guy to talk to?
I feel I have a good car but again have many questions for a pro that can help with an informed determination.
Thanks.

C.
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: maroman on January 25, 2022, 02:13:04 AM
Picture help a lot.
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: bcmiller on January 25, 2022, 02:17:26 AM
What questions do you have?
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: cwyllie on January 25, 2022, 02:57:11 AM
I am wanting to know if things look legit.
I can only attach one pic. Let’s start here.
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: bertfam on January 25, 2022, 03:18:35 AM
Looks like you were the person that just purchased it from ebay seller mrh0, who purchased it from ebay seller ironhorserecovery in 2014.

You have a VERY nice HIGHLY optioned car, and yes, the trim tag is factory original, the engine pad is factory original and the transmission and rear axle are also factory and original.

For anyone that's interested, the car came with the following options:

A31 A39 A67 B93 C08 C60 D55 G80 J52 L34 M40 N33 N34 N40 U15 U17 U25 U26 U46 U79 V31 V32 Z22 Z87

Ed

Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: cwyllie on January 25, 2022, 03:28:48 AM
Ed.
Thank you for your reply.
You are correct about the purchase. You have knowledge of this car... how? Off the cowl tag only.... impressive!
C.
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: bertfam on January 25, 2022, 03:35:40 AM
Your car's in the database from 2014 so I was able to look up the VIN from the trim tag body number. It was even being discussed on the YENKO SITE (https://www.yenko.net/forum/showthread.php?t=170265).

HERE'S (https://www.ebay.com/itm/194687767367?hash=item2d544b9347%3Ag%3AErQAAOSwe89hz2uu&LH_ItemCondition=4&mkcid=1&mkrid=711-53200-19255-0&siteid=0&campid=5337538513&customid=&toolid=10001&nma=true&si=JPgy6FOiuKQBKYoXeN5ks7Gfq0U%253D&orig_cvip=true&nordt=true&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2557) the ebay auction for anyone wanting more pictures.

62k original miles and still has the original spare tire!! I don't know what you paid, but you got a damn nice car!

Ed
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: 169INDY on January 25, 2022, 05:42:33 AM
 LOS (Los Angeles/Van Nuys) body scheduling code ??
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: Gars68Tux on January 25, 2022, 09:17:12 AM
^^^ Good question?

Amazing car that shows a high degree of originality. Possibly worthy of posting in the Originality Forum! The spoiler wasn't factory installed as it's missing the deck lid emblem. May've been dealer installed. No front spoiler? Would like to hear the third horn! lol

I have a nice original 749 bucket seat cover that needs a new home. ;) It's the passenger side though.  And I thought I was the only one with sawed off Derby caps! Was trying to post a photo, but size limitations were getting in the way. :(
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: bertfam on January 25, 2022, 02:17:25 PM
There are a lot of LA cars with no scheduling code. Not sure why. Maybe one of the other guys can shed light on it.

Here are a few more with no code (see below).

Ed
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: cwyllie on January 25, 2022, 03:11:30 PM
Garth.
Too bad it’s not drivers side. That is the one I need to replace due to some minor tearing.
I would like to add a front spoiler as well if I can find an original or at least a quality aftermarket. Any ideas on what has worked well for others is welcome.
C.
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: 69Z28-RS on January 25, 2022, 03:29:12 PM
There are a lot of LA cars with no scheduling code. Not sure why. Maybe one of the other guys can shed light on it.

Here are a few more with no code (see below).

Ed


It seems 'logical' to me that cars that are ordered by customers/dealerships get 'scheduled' and have a scheduling code, whereas cars that are initiated by Chevroletor the  plant (to keep the plant running) would NOT have a scheduling code since they would be started 'immediately'...??   
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: firstgenaddict on January 25, 2022, 04:36:22 PM
You can use the lower bucket seat covers on either side.

Worst case scenario is to have the HT insert sewn into the old drivers vinyl surround.
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: 67conv6cyl on January 25, 2022, 05:09:46 PM
Just Wow, what a nice car with many superb options! I wonder who the first owner was?
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: bcmiller on January 25, 2022, 06:01:53 PM
Very very nice car!
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: cwyllie on January 25, 2022, 06:37:30 PM
James.
HT insert?
I believe the tear is only on the lower bucket. There are interchangeable?
C.
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: Gars68Tux on January 25, 2022, 06:48:16 PM
HT= houndstooth material.

The difference is the backrest release mechanism/catch and bump stop.

I'll send a personal message later today when I figure out how....
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: dannystarr on January 25, 2022, 07:28:21 PM
I posted this many days ago asking if the engine pad stamp was factory?? 225 people looked, no response? WHY?? My friend wanted to buy this car.  Danny

   http://www.camaros.org/forum/index.php?topic=19703.0
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: bcmiller on January 25, 2022, 09:56:12 PM
I posted this many days ago asking if the engine pad stamp was factory?? 225 people looked, no response? WHY?? My friend wanted to buy this car.  Danny

   http://www.camaros.org/forum/index.php?topic=19703.0

Sounds pretty demanding. I don’t like that.

This forum was NOT setup for you or anyone else to simply post questions and get confirmation on a car.

If people respond, fine. If they don’t, realize that we all have lives and have no requirement to respond to anything.

Seem reasonable?

I hope so.

Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: KurtS on January 25, 2022, 10:27:38 PM
It seems 'logical' to me that cars that are ordered by customers/dealerships get 'scheduled' and have a scheduling code, whereas cars that are initiated by Chevrolet or the  plant (to keep the plant running) would NOT have a scheduling code since they would be started 'immediately'...??   
That not how Chevrolet worked. All orders came from the dealer, which meant all cars had a destination when they were finished. Unlike some other marques who had a holding lot of cars that dealers didn't want to take...
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: Jonesy on January 25, 2022, 11:00:19 PM
Yes, thats a very nice loaded with options car!!
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: Gars68Tux on January 25, 2022, 11:18:55 PM
Garth.
Too bad it’s not drivers side. That is the one I need to replace due to some minor tearing.
I would like to add a front spoiler as well if I can find an original or at least a quality aftermarket. Any ideas on what has worked well for others is welcome.
C.

I sent a PM...

Regarding the front spoiler, highly unlikely a decent original or NOS would be available. Maybe HBC, but I'd hate to imagine what he'd want for it. Here's a link to Chick's TOP NOTCH Z/28 resto. http://www.camaros.org/forum/index.php?topic=18398.0 Check out the table of contents to find photos and info regarding the spoiler. His is a reproduction I believe.  68's are unique and if I'm not mistaken there was a design change at the end of the 68 model year...

Curious if you find any screw holes in the lower valance...?
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: cwyllie on January 26, 2022, 12:24:56 AM
Garth.
I will take a look.
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: cwyllie on January 26, 2022, 02:18:10 AM
Garth.
No screw holes.
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: dannystarr on January 26, 2022, 02:39:46 AM
Sounds pretty demanding. I don’t like that.

This forum was NOT setup for you or anyone else to simply post questions and get confirmation on a car.

If people respond, fine. If they don’t, realize that we all have lives and have no requirement to respond to anything.

Seem reasonable?

I hope so.

Bryon,
 No, not reasonable. Nothing demanding about it. Just shocked why no one would answer after 225 views. I will not get into a big discussion and waste valuable space. Can't win on these passive liberal Camaro websites. The website is not set-up to ask questions for confirmation on a car??? WHAT?? As soon as you want me to send you 500 people asking the SAME EXACT questions that I did on THIS website... LMK  I'll start sending them your way. ... Danny

 
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: bcmiller on January 26, 2022, 03:03:16 AM
Obviously you did not read what I wrote. Read it again.

Don’t call this site passive liberal.
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: cwyllie on January 26, 2022, 03:48:04 AM
If I’m not mistaken, this Forum is for connecting with people who have the same love and admiration of Camaro’s that you do and to obtain information from those who are willing to share it.
My post is exactly that. Take the argument elsewhere please.
To those who have posted helpful comments. Thank you.
For those who have additional helpful comments. Please post.
Thanks.
C.
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: Gars68Tux on January 26, 2022, 05:25:20 AM
Garth.
No screw holes.

So no evidence of a front spoiler. May never know who installed the rear spoiler. Same with the passenger side mirror. None were factory installed, but possibly by the dealer.

Apparently the car was damaged in the front end at some point? The nose stripe was obviously repainted. Also, I'd say the grill may've been replaced. Originally, it would've had chrome highlights. Here's the report...http://camaros.org/68rs.shtml

Please don't get me wrong, in no way am I trying to bash the cars authenticity. For the most part, it appears factory original, imo. Not many left like that these days and with all the options, makes it a very special Camaro!
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: cwyllie on January 26, 2022, 03:33:02 PM
 Garth.
No disrespect to the car taken at all. I appreciate your input.
It appears the only repaint on the car are front fenders so you may be right that at some point there could have been front end damage. I would guess that a solid 90% of this car is original and correct.
I wondered about the passenger side mirror… it must be an add on.
So cool to learn the little details on this site. I will look into the grill.
C.  8)
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: bertfam on January 26, 2022, 04:01:55 PM
Check the date code on the passenger side mirror glass. If it was dealer installed, the date should be fairly close to the build date of the car. You're looking for something  like x-DMI-x where the first x is the month and the second x is the year. (The DMI is Donnelly Mirror Inc)

Ed
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: dannystarr on January 26, 2022, 05:08:21 PM
Bryon,
 Read it again. I get it. I would have inserted the word " Automatically " or " instantly " here.
 This forum was NOT setup for you or anyone else to simply post questions and Automatically get confirmation on a car.
 
  Meaning, it's not my personal website. I take back the mini rant. ... Danny
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: cwyllie on January 26, 2022, 05:48:50 PM
I’ll take a look at the glass Ed. I’m guessing it’s etched?
C.
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: bertfam on January 26, 2022, 06:02:24 PM
Quote
I’m guessing it’s etched?

That's correct. Either on the upper or lower part of the glass itself.

Ed
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: cwyllie on January 26, 2022, 06:55:21 PM
Garth.
Good catch on the grill. Guess I need to look for a Chrome (early) version.  ;D
C.
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: bertfam on January 26, 2022, 07:19:50 PM
I'm not sure I could recommend the reproduction RS grilles. Several years ago a friend was replacing the original grille on his 67 RS with a reproduction because his original was broken in several places. I noticed at the time that the new grille plastic was much thinner than the original. It was very noticeable, even when installed, so unless they've gotten better, you might want to see if you can find a nice used grille. I think someone here or on Team Camaro found a way to re-heat stamp the chrome edges, or found a company that could do it, but I can't seem to find the thread.

Ed
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: Gars68Tux on January 26, 2022, 09:10:54 PM
I have an NOS grill purchased back in the 90's, but of course wasn't chromed. I painted it silver and clearcoated. Looks good and has held up well, but doesn't quite match chrome. Was hoping someday the repops would get the bugs ironed out and hear/see some favorable reviews. When they first came out, I recall someone on Team Camaro posting photos of the chrome peeling off his newly repop!
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: Gars68Tux on January 27, 2022, 08:53:46 AM
Been lookin' over the photos again...luv it! I really never have come to a definite conclusion on original hood insulation for 67-8. I think the consensus is it was molded. Ed, what's your thoughts? It does appear to have the correct retaining clips.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/k621/mrhelman/20211225_131645_copy_2000x1500.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds

Another question for Ed, if you don't mind....What are the differences between the L34 and L35? Where does the L34 pick up the extra 25 ponies? 
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: cook_dw on January 27, 2022, 12:39:38 PM
Not speaking for Ed but that is the older style repo insulation.  Here's a photo I snagged from a 67 on craigslist that had its original hood insulation.  Granted its rough but you can see its molded around the air cleaner area still
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: bertfam on January 27, 2022, 02:21:40 PM
Quote
Not speaking for Ed but that is the older style repo insulation.

Agreed. The older insulation was too "puffy". Original insulation was actually very flat.

The L34 used a different cam than the L35. Higher lift and longer duration. The distributor was different for the L34 with manual transmission, but the auto transmission used the same distributor as the L35. It used a different carburetor too.

Ed
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: Gars68Tux on January 27, 2022, 06:43:18 PM
I was thinking camshaft. Was about $105 more for the L34 in 68. Seems like an excessive increase, relatively speaking. Guess that's why so few were sold!

Thanks for the photo, Darrell. Hard to find "surviving" hood insulation. lol
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: cook_dw on January 27, 2022, 08:29:12 PM
Thanks for the photo, Darrell. Hard to find "surviving" hood insulation. lol

No shit.  I'm still looking for a couple.
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: cwyllie on January 27, 2022, 09:52:01 PM
Yes. I’m sure there are a ton of original hood insulation’s out there.  ;D
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: bcmiller on January 28, 2022, 01:57:11 PM
From what was asked earlier.

I believe that the L35 got a Nodular Iron crank where the L34 got Forged Steel.

Camshaft lobe lift
L35 - .2343 Int. & Exh.
L34 - .2714 Int., .2824 Exh.

Valve lift
L35 - .3983 Int. & Exh.
L34 - .4614 Int., & .4800 Exh.

Other major components were basically the same. But the air cleaner might have been different.
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: Gars68Tux on January 30, 2022, 10:54:41 AM
Bryon, thanks! I seem to recall our old friend from Team Camaro, "Vintage68" (John) mentioning some other differences. It probably was the crankshaft. That would explain the L35/34 price difference (along with cam, etc).

No idea why the air cleaner would be different, though? Guess we can get Craig to examine his and compare to the others! :D
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: cwyllie on February 04, 2022, 02:04:59 AM
Going through the brakes out of the gate due to leaking caliper piston. Complete rebuild of calipers and flushing the system.
Brake pads. Organic vs. semi met? Was looking for the AC Delco to keep with original style but cannot find.
Thoughts on type and brand for this car?
thanks.
C.
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: cook_dw on February 04, 2022, 02:22:06 AM
Organic for less dust, semi for better braking.
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: TODD on February 04, 2022, 01:11:55 PM
C. Nice car very original! My buddy in High School had one just like it!
As for that seat I believe I would try and repair, a good competent interior shop could do that.
Beautiful car that just needs driven!
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: cwyllie on April 01, 2022, 02:01:03 AM
So quick update here.
This car has the Tri- volume horn U03. Two of the horns were installed upside down and did not work. Sent them to The Horn Works for reconditioning.
Installed them correctly per A.I.M. and BAM!! Holy Horn Balls! It sounds like a freight train in your face. Wish I could post a sample beep for you all.
Impressive! On to the next fix!

 
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: Gars68Tux on April 01, 2022, 07:16:34 AM
LOL ;D...great analogy! A video/audio would be nice, but probably wouldn't get the FULL FREIGHT TRAIN affect! lol (thumbs up)
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: cook_dw on April 01, 2022, 11:45:00 AM
If you wanna text me a short clip of the horn action and maybe also show all 3 horns; I'll host it on my youtube channel and share a link here.  Just a thought.

Pm me and I'll give you my number.
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: cook_dw on April 02, 2022, 10:38:03 PM
He wasn’t kidding about the freight train comparison. 

 https://youtube.com/shorts/Bqzr41sYInE?feature=share (https://youtube.com/shorts/Bqzr41sYInE?feature=share)



[url]] (http://[/url)http://
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: BillOhio on April 02, 2022, 11:12:01 PM
That is awesome.  Could that be on a 69???  ;D
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: Gars68Tux on April 02, 2022, 11:13:03 PM
Yep, sounds AWESOME! I'd say the standard 2 horns sound pretty healthy, but the 3rd gives it that freight train effect.lol :D

Hey Craig, is that hood release arm painted black or any evidence? I've long thought 68's were, but haven't come to a definite conclusion...

Thanks Guys!
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: 169INDY on April 03, 2022, 07:47:53 PM
Like a Union Pacific GP30 and a 3 chime Nathan P3 air horn,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,Cheers!
Title: Re: 68 RS/SS
Post by: cwyllie on April 03, 2022, 10:06:57 PM
Gars68Tux

The release bar looks to have been black originally. Paint is worn off in areas.