Fixing up my Grandma's G-body after sitting for 22 years

Fixing up my grandma's old daily driver, a car I've wanted since high school and getting it roadworthy so she can drive it! Lots of ups and downs and a trip to the 2023 Turkey Rod Runs, but it's driving mint now!
You can buy some merch and help support the channel! - garagebuiltco.com
Tools Used
Milwaukee Bandsaw - amzn.to/2Zqn4OU With This Stand - amzn.to/3d5bqNv
Cheap Plasma Cutter - amzn.to/3hJdbS7
Milwauke Tool Die Grinder - amzn.to/2MoAQu9
Milwaukee Tool Headlamp - amzn.to/2xUWthH
Small Milwaukee Flood Light - amzn.to/2Sf39Ox
Milwaukee Tool Underhood Light - amzn.to/3f5K6jw
Milwaukee Tool Mid Torque 1/2" Impact(2861-20) amzn.to/3b1bqwG
Milwaukee Tool Stubby 3/8" Impact (Small Most Used Tool)- amzn.to/2Jdirid
Milwauke Tool 3/8" Ratchet (Life Changing) - amzn.to/2JcpQhy
Milwaukee Tool 1/4" Ratchet - amzn.to/35VZM41
Milwaukee Tool Ratchet Wrenches - amzn.to/2CYRFKz
M12 Drill/Driver - amzn.to/35QVZoR
M18 Drill/Driver - amzn.to/2p6WuKJ
Gearwrench 3/8 Socket Set Mid Length (Very Nice Sockets) - amzn.to/2VnbMHm
Gearwrench 3/8 Socket Set Deep - amzn.to/3b1pFBH
Multiprocess Welder - amzn.to/3g6y5dK
Drill Bits - amzn.to/3fc4DkZ
Thanks to all who support me on Patreon! - www.patreon.co...
IG - / taylordrifts
Twitter - / taylordrifts
Email For business Inquires - [e-mail]

[@ShakeNBlake509]

This is the build we have all been waiting for low key.

[@carringtoncape8165]

I’ve been high key waiting lmao

[@halfameatballz]

Still waiting on the green Silverado to be done but still stoked for this build.

[@kick_then_shift]

@halfameatballz for real, I wish he would just buy a set of bogarts for the truck already. That and a paint job and the truck would be sick. Maybe a simple cage in the truck some decent seats. I don't think the truck did well for views that's why it got back burner.

[@TheRetiredBullhandAK989]

That’s what I’m saying!

[@quantumfluxuation]

Oddly I'm the opposite. I don't really want to see it modified and would love to see it get repaired with stock stuff. Too sentimental

[@v_g_p_]

Just lost my grandma 2 days ago. Definitely enjoy the time you have with them.

[@franckthetank131]

Lost mine last Tuesday from cancer so I know the feeling ❤

[@hammerhead2558]

Sorry for your loss.

[@DomGaccioli]

My friend died the same day as your grandma. You’re 100% right, enjoy the time with friends and family. Time and things happen.

[@kshepthedrummer]

I lost my grandma this past March. Both grandparents on my dad's side have been gone for a while, but they were in another state so I wasn't super close to them. This was the first time I've lost someone so close to me. She's been my neighbor my entire life (30 years) so it's been a hard hit on me and the whole family. Her and my grandpa have been the centerpiece basically of the family. I spent a lot of time with them, but I still feels like I didn't spend enough. I've definitely been trying to cherish the time I have left with my grandpa since then.

[@nametooshortt]

I'm so sorry for your loss.

[@mckrackin5324]

I can forgive all that mess under the hood but that filthy windshield is triggering. lol... But seriously, can't wait to see Grandma drive it. Hope she's feeling better soon.

[@davidklug6980]

It's like that kid in school that always has dirty glasses. Gaaah, how do you even see?!?

[@joshuaanderson3776]

Love the fact that Josue personality starting to shine through. He’s gotten so much more comfortable on camera. He’s a cool dude.

[@BIGFOOT-ENT.]

I dont think there's a single friend of Taylor's thats been on the channel that rubbed me the wrong way. I feel like Taylor is one of those genuine ppl that is only friends with other genuine ppl.

[@roberta4989]

What a great car! I was a mechanic at a Chevy dealer when this year car was released. Worked on hundreds, SS and non SS. Although you have probably already fixed it, a few ideas I would throw out there. The temperature of the engine is critical for the ECU and TCU system. Second, sensors/senders are not all the same, I suggest getting the correct one. Radiator cap should be replaced, the pressure in the cooling system is very important to it maintaining the correct temperature and circulation. Replace the temperature sender for the dash gauge, I am willing to bet the sensor you were able to get on the road trip is actually the temp gauge sender. ( most auto parts stores would carry that, gauge and overheat light are different parts). The lockup issue is common. Ok, enough jibber jabber!

[@KPaul7]

I'm not a mechanic, and this is my video here. Seeing as you are and know the car. Is there a vacuum line that goes to the trans and/or a wire? I know how crusty things can get down there. My experience is minimal, but I've been around cars a lot. I know Volvo had a wire that was always grounded out, and older domestic trucks have a vacuum line/solonard problem. Just a question, and yes, I know Volvo is not a good example. Now I'm jibber jabbering lol.

[@roberta4989]

@@KPaul7 Greetings. Assuming you have a Turbo 350 trans (standard). There is a vacuum going to the transmission modulator (side of the trans) from the intake manifold. It controls when the trans shifts.

[@KPaul7]

@roberta4989 thank you for responding. I must have thought I put first video but I forgot the first. Lol That is exactly what I was referring to. So does the SS have that? Just curious and it was all I could think about when I was watching this video about the overdrive.

[@roberta4989]

@@KPaul7 The vacuum is for shifting only. The lock-up has an electrical connection via a harness to the trans. That wiring schematic is available in repair manual. My memory tells me there was a transmission switch in some years. 4L60 or 700R4. You should be able to find that exact info out using VIN or other viewable differences.

[@timtodd6830]

Should be a 200-4R in ‘84. It has a Torque Converter Clutch solenoid in the trans. It also relies on the Throttle Position Sensor (in the drivers side front of the carb) to send a signal. And yes you can’t go too low on the thermostat temp or the computer will think the engine is still warming up and richen the mixture. The 305 H.O. had decent power for the era. True dual exhaust, replace the air cleaner tube to the rad support and a new O2 sensor and it will probably run really good.

[@ibanezmetal16]

I vote for for an old man's garage 427 small block chebby setup like he has in the red nova. I love ls engines but a street strip g-body with a cammed out sbc and some spray is a vibe!

[@michael_graper]

I agree a cammed sbc would be a nice change of pace, as much as I love a ls swap Taylor already has 2 ls cars

[@JaCk3D3Y3]

Agreed, cammed sbc

[@theoldmansgarage]

Ayyyeeeee

[@davidcorder95]

Yes, about time brother grandma’s car needs it. Plus you can make it a beast sleeper.

[@beratsbuilds]

29:38 the Kid-like giggles of T-Ray in the lowrider just brighten my mood

[@malcolmroberts6749]

I suppose it's been probably two or three years that I've been actively keeping up with Taylor's channel. In that short amount of time though he's become one of my favorite automotive youtubers. Top three for sure, I won't list them in order because I don't want to sound like a dick but keep on pushing brother

[@mwickman13]

Perfect drag and drive vehicle.!

[@billhooper85]

I think it's awesome you are getting the ss already for your grandma's last hooray in her old car and I'm stoked for the build afterwards

[@kyledoubleu8833]

Both my parents are gone. That hit home. My condolences!

[@willtipton]

Very cool that you bring food to your grandma. I also visit with my grandparents, I try for once a week and I sure enjoy it.

[@robsweekendgarage]

Awesome to see some Monte content again. It’s what brought me to your channel. My brother had an 86 Monte SS as his first car in the early 90s. Such a cool looking car. While slow, the 5.0 HO had a great sound.

[@Flacidross]

crazy hearing things like this. i’ve been around watching taylor since the 350z

[@Fossillarson]

I've been watching for couple yrs. But my dad had diesel Monte back in late 80s early 90s 😊

[@Shadowband72]

I've been watching since he was still working for BC .

[@JL-yl8gd]

I’ve been watching Taylor since before he was on KZbin. I remember sitting off by myself kind of hiding really watching him play little league or walking to school. Playing in his backyard with his little friends. Watching the lights go out at night and thinking about him in his pajamas

[@skeetermccleeter]

I could watch Taylor at a car show all day. Like a kid in a candy store. 😊

[@NovaRedHead]

The happy little "ha ha" cracks me up 😂

[@Todd936]

Respect 🫡 Famous last words “not going to be a race car” Best life to you man.

[@jamessaunders3039]

Great video as usual! I’m enjoying the longer form on the recent videos, it’s like we are just hanging out with you. Keep up the good work!

[@MrLimondavis]

I've been waiting to see some content on this G body. I had no idea where it came from (I'm sure I missed the video) but I am a child of this era and can't wait for it to come alive!

[@c00lcutter]

It’s the little things like listening to stories that mean the most, I definitely miss my Grandparents and Dad , I only have my mom left and I cherish every moment, Thanks Taylor for everything you do ❤

[@ShakeNBlake509]

You are totally right. I don't have grandparents anymore and the memories I have of them from when I was a kid I will cherish forever. The older we get, the more we realize how important family is and spending time with them before we can't anymore.

[@Barrenchats]

Ok I got that life lesson about listening better thank you Mr Ray

[@Falney]

The Monte always cracks me up. It looks like a 80ft coupe. You have someone standing at the front and someone standing at the back and they need 2 way radios to talk.

[@he-man4438]

Yes, vacuum leak fixed. That should help with the high idle.

[@slaphands7703]

Knipex cobras really are worth every single penny. Have three sizes and two sets of each. One set for the garage and another for the service truck. No other pliers compares.

[@bradthacker9904]

Man this thing would be so badass ripping through the tail of the dragon on a roadster speed shop chassis making Nascar sounds. 😂

[@Taylordrifts]

Don’t tempt me now!

[@bradthacker9904]

@Taylordrifts Ohhh, I'm hoping I do. Those chassis are so cool. I'd be willing to bet it only takes one visit to their site, and you won't be able to help yourself. 😂

[@aaronb7990]

Would be sick to go road race style. Get some sticky tires and carve some mountain roads and some road race tracks. It wouldn't be as fast on the strip as a Drag Setup but it also wouldn't be slow. Could still do Drag 'n' Drives.

[@someyoungguy6990]

@@TaylordriftsYou know you want to.......If you build it, views will come.....!!

[@JL-yl8gd]

Wow. They look really nice . Only problem is I was playing around with there website and am looking at 60,000$

[@Kudoas]

been looking forward to this project!

[@stvkomer]

the monte carlo is the only reason i am subbed MORE MONTE CARLOOOOOOOOOOOO

[@ryurc3033]

I couldn't stop Staring at the headliner. It's perfect! (or perfect on camera) No g body still has a factory headliner

[@NomiosApollo]

The way Taylor talks about listening to his grandmother- he's just a very smart man.

[@robertarevalo4308]

GForce T56 magnum drag and drive monster , for sure . Best of both worlds. 1-4 faceplated with highway 5-6 dream 😎

[@devindooley9073]

I just got a 86 monte carlo ss so I'm really excited to see this build and Tayler was 100% right he hit it on the nose mine has a crate 350 with a 4 barrel edelbrock

[@Granch23]

Been waiting for this video since you introduced the car!!

[@wobblysauce]

A dirty window gets me more than the the trans not shifting.

[@cody2130_]

Title for the episode should have been " chill, CHILL, CHILL"

[@BangnKlang]

Still have my first car we've had since my dad bought it when I was in middle school. 78 Monte that I swapped the 350sbc for an SR20det. Also have an 84SS with a built 355sbc running on Holley efi. Excited for this series

[@DyneHammer]

I've been hesitant to watch content with this car just because it reminds me of my first vehicle (80 GMC Caballero); had it for years since High School but after a ton of engine swaps and it falling into disrepair after being my daily for so long, I had to let it go. I still regret parting with it; they're great cars and it's awesome to see you having long term plans with this G-Body! Edit: Also a heads up (because I had to use a rubber line like that for part of my transmission cooler line for the Elky when I had it), the transmission fluid will eat through the rubber sooner or later. Probably won't be a big deal if it' is short term, but it's something to watch out for if this project gets put on the backburner for whatever reason.

[@G-BodyForLife]

Most likely it's the TCC Solenoid. No overdrive in the '84 SS. It wasn't available until 1985. The '83 & '84 SS got 3.42s with a TH350C and the '85 to '88 SS got 3.73s with the 200-4R.

[@kylerhinerson3749]

I was waiting for someone to break the new of having no overdrive lol. I have a 84 ss as well, th350 with 3.42 gears and small factory tires= all the rpm’s

[@bennapier9260]

@charlieb308your info is incorrect. I've had 2 84s. Both had a factory posi.

[@bennapier9260]

@charlieb308 1 of them I can't say was a factory posi. The other I know for sure was. I bought it new. Some things got done that they say didn't I guess. You never know with gm. I had an 87 iroc. It was supposed to have a positive unit and didn't

[@JessyU13]

I really like my 8" and 10" IRWIN Pliers. They were only $30 CAD, but they feel great in the hand and have great grip force without hurting your hand.

[@trxcummins7388]

The nipex wrench pliers are a game changer.. a buddy of mine had some I thought they were stupid until I used them and then I bought the whole set I use them all the time you can get some serious torque with them I don't even hardly use wrenches anymore

[@designingedgegraphics9811]

THANK YOU, I've been wondering about the monte carlo!! I have a one owner 83 white SS. so I like em!

[@97MrFluffy]

On this episode of Vice Grip Garage.... I mean Taylor Ray ahaha. I love the Monte content and seeing more of the shit talking with you and the boys 👌🏻

[@xvClinton]

taylor you need to do a jibber jabber session with cleeter sit down have a good ol chat with him about all the options and classes you could run in a drag n drive and build it around that. id love to do the same with my grandfathers car sitting in the shed one day. love the episodes on this btw

[@steampunk896]

I think you should do a mild build personally. Like TrickFlow heads long tubes single plane intake and a ATM carburetor and some cherry bomb mufflers and a isky cam. I feel like it can be a very streetable setup

[@Cherokee93]

Yeah this mint of a car doesn’t need an ls stock motor with some upgrades would be nicer imo

[@tobyjohnson3379]

FINALLY I HAVE BEEN WAITING SOOOO LONG TO SEE THIS

[@gsh3159]

Another thing you need to add to your garage upgrade jobs is a couple of garage door motors.

[@CJdriftZ]

That car show looked like a great time!

[@timc2346]

Worked at a Dealership in the late 80s were pretty quick new had one sideways coming out of Canadian Tire.Also had a 83 had the v6 but good running car handled great in the winter.🇨🇦

[@chad0856]

"This car is not even going to have an automatic transmission anymore......" best news i've heard all day!

[@theoldmansgarage]

Love the Monte Carlo Taylor. Holla at your ol’ man from Ohio if you need any help.

[@P-J-W-777]

Cobras are the best pliers I’ve ever used. Once you get them to lock down you can literally stand on them without slipping. The SS deserves a nice ZL1 engine, even if it’s in it stock configuration for reliability and longevity.

[@brianhillger1922]

Ngl been lacking on watching for a while but exited for this build

[@1up_heath804]

I lost my bumpa and nana this year so yes ask questions and listen the the story. I wish at the least I would have gone finishing one time with my bumpa so take the time. 100%

[@RatomirFilipovic]

Perfect timing i was just about to go to bed ! :) Tnx Taylor

[@clnfreakone8486]

I lost my grandma 11 years ago last week and it still hurts every day still

[@mackie_p]

Yeeeeesss, the video I've been waiting for!!

[@BassManBobBassCovers]

I know in the later model FWD 4T65 based transmissions, it's common for the TCC solenoids to go bad. They can be changed while the trans is still in the car. I've never worked on a G body and have no idea what's going on lol.

[@cjhatesu]

Just a suggestion, but the multicam edit would be a lot better if you only used the audio from one of the cameras. This way you'd have consistent background noise and sound quality between shots and it would feel a lot more natural as you cut between footage. Either way appreciate the effort you put in your videos!

[@teresabashaw7464]

That radiator is soldered together. So.... a small wire brush, some good solder, Flux, and a small torch... leak fixed ... done & dusted !

[@572camaroguy]

Please keep a proper Small Block in that ride. Blueprint builds a great Small Block/ Transmission combo. Did you notice the cooling fan is mounted backwards? This car should have a Fan/Clutch combo and it appears that spacer and backwards fan have been installed.

[@3point1415926536]

I was also gonna remark that it looks like the fan (seen at 16:45) is on backwards.

[@timtodd6830]

Yes, keep it original small block. Someone probably put a reverse rotation fan on it at some point.

[@944LS]

Hey Elliot! Talked to him on Instagram quite a bit about 944 stuff! Awesome guy!

[@79huddy]

Hell yeah a White Knight Monte SS is and will always be a sweet ride even out to pasture sinking in the yard someone will want it

[@mrlithium69]

@43:20 The stereo sound of both doors closing gave me a flashback to the smell of cigarettes

[@JessyU13]

I make a good effort to spend time with my only Grandma left, I spent almost no time with the rest of my grandparents and it really saddens me.

[@JohnRoberts71]

Great content thanks for sharing

[@crazymfndude6564]

I would leave it alone and keep it like it is.....but however you decide to build that great car, o will be here to support

[@michaeloster383]

American Powertrain sells a complete 5speed swap kit. Dixie Restoration Depot sells a shifter cover plate for the console to for a manual shifter

[@Niko-iw1sr]

Taylor when you've got two camera angles in the same area, use one single audio track, preferably the better quality audio track.

[@baronfyrewhine]

Automatic. You could do a full manual valve body. Use FTI, they do great work and are close by in DeLand. Pull out your transmission, take it to them and have them build it up. They've got converters too. I've had full manual Turbo 400's in a few cars. They're fun to drive. Have you looked for the build sheet? If not, they're usually behind the back seat.

[@baldhead7705]

I would definitely leave it auto with overdrive and make it a nice little hot rod Cruiser

[@_Bonez12]

Pretty sure the rpm vs speed issue is more related to you having too small of tires on it than the transmission. Just something to consider.

[@oldskoolkrazy]

yeah those aren't the right tire size 🤣

[@Shadow0fd3ath24]

Nah even then my truck on 29" tires runs 2500rpm at 84mph...doing 2500 at 50 is insane lol thats 100% not going into 4th gear. It should be doing 2500 at 70+ even on those tires

[@_Bonez12]

@@Shadow0fd3ath24either way, having the wrong size tires isn’t doing him any favors. I can’t say I’ve messed with an 84 monte, but I know having the wrong tire size can make autos do all kinds of weird stuff.

[@agentcrm]

A quick search. An 84 Monte should be running a 26" tall tire. Though yes the wrong size can mess with things once you start modifying a vehicle.

[@Cherokee93]

@@Shadow0fd3ath24 I’m pretty sure it’s got a 3speed auto

[@nickmac5953]

I’ve been waiting sooo long for this 😁

[@jamessuman2151]

I wouldn't mess with this thing too much, maybe heads cam intake. Keep the original character of the car, keep it usable, and use it. I recently got my fox body on the road, its your basic 302, N41 cam GT40P heads and 650 holley. Its slower than your truck but it makes all the right noises and i can drive it anywhere i like.

[@nofearcbr]

37:57 we need “chill chilll CHILLL “ merch lol or sticker

[@nickgibson1191]

Hell yes been waiting for this one

[@randywaldrep8482]

I'm a little surprised you didn't try the Kick down cable. It could vary well be the only reason it go into overdrive. Good Luck I've always like them myself. I have a 1979 Monte Carlo I've had for several years.

[@Ruudiii]

When swapping between 2 different cameras, where 1 has a terrible internal mic and one has a decent one, i recommend you continue the audio file from the 1 camera when youre talking into the other.

[@aaronb7990]

46:14 My first car was an '84 Z-28... in '99. It really was insanity.

[@CSMtv1320]

For a mild street/strip build I think stick shift would be the most fun.

[@rooob-toob5845]

Love the video dude. Was interesting seeing you divulge some personal info in this one... you out of most YT'ers I actively follow dont tend to veer off the car content, so seeing you tie it into personal life a bit was classy if you ask me. Lost my grandma at 16, unlcle at 17 Dad at 28 and grandfather not short after my dad... Life is short, and the we best way we can honor them is to keep the memories fresh... and the way cars can do that is crazy to me. Idk how some ppl arent car folks. lol I still wish i had my 98 mustang my grandma promised me when she bought it in 98.... wasn't special, V6, auto... but to me... it kinda is now.

[@jlpslp4]

4l80e with a hd2 kit for the win!

[@rcmike09]

Personally, I'd try to keep the car looking as stock as possible. Including the interior.

[@dfacedxa]

Second this. Clean it up and leave it stock

[@ryanromano9116]

Nooo way, I have those lights for my shop and I was using one while washing my jeeps undercarriage when I was like 15 and shocked the piss outa myself🤣

[@woolymansmachining6016]

I would like to see this stay automatic and a built SBC. The LS just doesn't sound as good cammed as the firing order of a SBC. This is such a nice car to mod too much!

[@genericsomething]

383 stroker?

[@scottc4433]

Jb weld is always the answer

[@Thrown_together_garage]

Definitely need some 22in welds for the truck

[@beau9387]

All i gotta say is i love Taylor and Josué, they my best friends an i've only met them once. (ILL SEE YOU GUYS AGAIN SOON WHEN IM ON TAYLORS DOOR)

[@zelleman516]

Pretty sure thats the same "under hood" light I use. 😂 I added some magnets to it with double sided tape so that I can stick it to the hood.

[@justusbeason236]

I have an 86 Monte SS. I think it would be nice to see it with an 80e and stock shifter

[@mastercricket7626]

Man have I been weighting for this one my brotha #pimpmygranny 😅.. peace and love bro keep it rad stay safe and build on

[@s10er8]

I haven't made it to the end yet so maybe you fixed the high rpm issue but it could have a 4.11 gear and will just always rev high. I would do a full stock resto on that car. Maybe a mild upgrade to the engine and leave it stock appearing or period correct upgrades.

[@roberthocking9138]

The inside of the windscreen is filthy, needs a good detail . Nice old car, I would just get running right and leave it alone. I agree listen to your elders, trust me, before you know there gone and you try and remember family stories and wish to go you would have listened more closely.

[@hockeyrj117]

My grandmother’s funeral is Tuesday, talk to your loved ones, tell them you love them

[@andrewcarrillo1392]

most underrated vlogger

[@BOOT]

FYI rear fill tanks will leak with good traction, unless you have a good cap. God thing I had a friend behind me after putting drag radials on my 68 Camaro. I'd like to see that SBC tweaked/tuned up but LS are just so user friendly and good.

[@obsessedracing7843]

Get with uncle bob and do a small block with nitrous or a turbo. I’d love to see it stick shift because that’s what I have. But I’m having trouble finding races and it’s so hard to compete with auto cars on no prep.

[@krisbarnard1684]

This thing needs a stick shift and an Lsa setup. Not full race car but nothings more fun kn the street then a snappy roots blown motor

[@MoondyneJoe]

Taylor, about the leaky radiator I have over the years used personality pinch the holes shut (even had a stone the size of a squash ball go through) AFTER PINCHING TUBES SHUT FOR ALL TIPS Use a tin of white pepper Pour it into the radiator and run it for 15 minutes. If that doesn't fix it/ OR ANOTHER ALTERNATIVE crack an egg or 2 into radiator Depending on size of radiator run for 15 minutes both pepper or eggs will fill up the holes. My most successful is crimp the Tubes then coat the area with body filler, let it go off, and off you go you will smell the body filler for a few miles but it should be fine, I continued using the radiator as such till I sold the car 5 years later still fine. Body filler also worked well on the back of my muffler, so I got some tin plate screwed it over the hole and covered it in body filler smoothed it off and it also was on the car 5 years later. Some of us can't afford replacements so creativity has to be used. Tony from Western Australia 🇦🇺

[@dogofdeath2007]

An LS with Fuel Injection will make a world of difference, along with a suspension

[@EarlsBackYard]

Hell yeah Taylor I remember back when you had 123,000 subscribers and Mike from street speed was doing a KZbinr thing and left you out that’s the day I stopped watching his clickbait channel glad to see you succeeding bro

[@Blazer3695]

You gotta bring that green truck to the Cleetus Christmas tree race