We were contacted on Saturday by Mr. Rafael Ballestero. He has a son, Brett, who is 15, almost 16. Brett has leukemia and has been dealing with this for a year and a half. They have contacted the Make A Wish foundation because Brett's dream is to buy and restore an El Camino. Unfortunately, Make A Wish does not help with vehicles other than cosmetics. His father found a 1980 El Camino and purchased it for him. The car had been garage stored for 15 years and doesn't need much. They have been slowly trying to fix it up. However, they are having some problems with the transmission. They would like to replace the turbo 350 with a 700R4 because Brett will be using the car as his daily driver and will get better mileage. We met with the family on Saturday afternoon and verified that this is not a scam. They are a very nice family...Dad(Rafael) Mom(Kristin) and 17 yr old brother Jason. They have all gone without things in order to pay for all the expenses not covered by insurance. We would like to ask all of our members to help out in some way no matter how small. Every little bit can be used to help make his dream come true. Please call Rich or Becky and let us know what you can do. We will be donating some parts and are contacting other sources for help. Let's make a light shine for this young man and his family and show them what M & M members are all about.
Thanks so much,
Rich & Becky
PS: Theres Not too many 15 year olds that still has our DREAM!!!!
PLEASE GO TO THE M&M WEB SITE TO SEE PICTURES & MORE INFO http://www.mandmspeed.com (http://www.mandmspeed.com/)
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M & M Speed & Custom (http://www.doverdragstrip.com/phpBB3/memberlist.php?mode=viewprofile&u=1379) King of the Hill Posts: 192 Joined: Fri May 15, 2009 7:14 am Location: 14781 SW 26th. Street-Davie, Florida 33325

Website (http://www.mandmspeed.com/)

Rich and Becky , Thank you for doing what you can to help them out . Is there a list of parts he needs and is the address below for mailing in a donation ?

Lenny, Rich and Becky are good friends of mine and asked me to help them monitor this thread as they are quite busy running M&M.
What is currently needed for Brett's El Camino is a 700r4, the car has a 350 but a gear is slipping and they would like to have an overdrive trans for economy, interior pieces ( don't have a list of what's needed for the interior yet), 17" or 18" Cragars and a paint job.
A bank account has been stablished under Brett's father's name and Becky, Mrs. M&M, it will need both their signatures to withdraw any money as this is meant to be for the repair of the car, if any money is left over after the car is done it will be given to Brett's family so they may take a well deserved vacation.
Any donations should be made out:
Rafael Ballestero (father of Brett) and Rebecca Marchese (Becky, Mrs. M&M)
And mailed to:
M&M Speed & Custom
C/O Make a Dream Come True
14781 SW 26 Street
Davie, Fl 33325

Thanks in advance to all that will help make Brett's wish come true!

The 700r4 has been found! Greg from gregbruceauto.com out of Lawrence, Kansas has donated a remanufactured transmission for Brett's car, all we have to do is arrange shipping.
:You_Rock:

is there a paypal account? can kick a few bucks

is there a paypal account? can kick a few bucks

X2

No PayPal account has been stablished yet, so far it'll have to be checks or money orders.
It seems like the major expenses will be the transmission and paint, so far the transmission has been donated.
Thanks for all contributions no matter how small, we are looking for $5-$10-$15-$20-$25 donations.

:You_Rock::You_Rock::You_Rock::You_Rock::You_Rock: :You_Rock:

Tony...Give me the amount on the shipping for that tranny. I'll kick in half of that and challenge any other member to match it. Maybe the same can be done for things like the drive shaft work needed to get it installed.

:beer: Randy

I spoke with Becky from M & M and told her about your offer, I will let you know the amount as soon as I have it. Thanks Randy, Tony.

:beer:

Thanks for all your help guys! Brett is very excited...this is a very special project.

Rafael (Dad) and Brett:nanawrench::You_Rock:

Last time I checked, a working transmission had two halves! Let me know of the other half of the shipping expense.................Ken :texas:

I will let Rich from M&M know, thanks for your kindness, Tony.

Just finished talking with Rich, UPS might donate the freight, I'll keep you all updated, Tony.

You guys are great! It is very touching to see that there are great people in this wonderful country of ours. God bless you all.

Keep us posted...................Ken :texas:

Very Nice guys looks like the trasmission issue is about wrapped up. What else does he need?

As I mentioned all the big ticket items seem like they will be taken care of but as we all know the little add ons get expensive also. What we are looking for are donations of $5 to $25 to help cover the expenses of the build.
Any donations are to be sent to:
Check or money order payable to:
Rafael Ballestero & Rebecca Marchese
C/O Make a Dream Come True
M & M Speed & Custom
14781 SW 26 St
Davie, Fl 33325

Thanks to all, Tony.

i dont have a 700r4 but i do have an electronic 200 transmission out of a mid 80s el camino with torque comverter that i would be willing to donate. message me or let randy or lenny know:driving:

A 700r4 has been donated, shipping is being arranged, thanks, Tony.

Folks, we all have expenses that seem to overwhelm our monthly income, but this is for a seriously ill 15-year-old's dream. I know how generous our members are, both in Texas and elsewhere. I'm not asking for those members who are out of work, and scraping for an existence, to contribute. I'm asking that those of us who have $10 or $20.00 in disposable income to put those dollars in the mail to Brett. Then let's use the collective power of prayer to bring Brett into a state of remission or cure so that he may enjoy his Elky when it is complete. I'm not asking for too much from an association such as ours - am I?...................Ken :You_Rock:

Hard to believe that I'm having to bump this message of caring and hope. Just the wrong members on line so far today, I guess..............Ken :beer:

Thanks guys for all of your help! Things are coming together, it is fun to watch the progress for Brett's dream ride, his 1980 El Camino. He's excited to say the least.

Rafael Kris Jason and Brett:You_Rock:

Rafael,
Being retired makes it hard to send money.I owned a locksmithing business for nearly forty years. I still tinker around with locks and would be very happy to repair, service, fit and provide keys for the locks on Brett's ride if there is any need. Please package them up and send them to me. I will set him up and return them to you free of charge, of course.Contact me by PM if you need my address.
James
(Lockjaw)

James:

Thank you so much for your of locksmithing services for Brett's El Camino. We truly appreciate your help. We will certainly notify you for help if locksmithing work is needed as the build progresses. Your generosity is appreciated!

Thanks,

Rafael and Brett:nana2::hail2:

I am sorry I havent answered e-mails, but it is hard to find time to get on here. If you have questions for us, it is best to call us at our toll free number 1-888-327-0454.

We still need a 2200 stall torque converter. We will get with Brett and Rafael this weekend to get a list of what else is needed. We would like monetary donations as M & M Speed will supply all the parts at cost. Plus M & M Speed will supply one of our own specially manufactured cross members.

Thanks for all the donations already received...keep up the good works guys and gals.

I have a brand new 2200-2500 stall converter I put in my rebuilt transmission, I had to take it out because it would not go into gear. Turns out I needed a lockup converter and the one I bought is not. ( I wish I knew tranny Mike back when I went through all that) anyway if it will work I'll send. I was going go to sell it but I'll be happy to give it to Brett if it will work in his tranny. I'll get the part number and specs when I get home tonight and let you know exactaly what it is.

Hope others will do what they can to help Brett out with his Camino . Rich and Becky of M and M Speed are providing parts at cost so a collection of donations will go a long way in helping out . A lot of people doing a little will add up to a lot .

I have a brand new 2200-2500 stall converter I put in my rebuilt transmission, I had to take it out because it would not go into gear. Turns out I needed a lockup converter and the one I bought is not. ( I wish I knew tranny Mike back when I went through all that) anyway if it will work I'll send. I was going go to sell it but I'll be happy to give it to Brett if it will work in his tranny. I'll get the part number and specs when I get home tonight and let you know exactaly what it is.

What transmission does Brett have?

A 700R4 has been donated to be installed in his Rl Camino.

Copied from another Thread.


It's going a little SLOW but things are rough out here! And we are VERY THANKFULL for Any & ALL the donations. :beer:
Today (06/26) is Brett's Birthday he just turned 16!
Thanks again,
Rich & Becky M&M Speed


Com'on folks, give it up a little bit for Brett. Think of your own youth, your hopes, your dreams! Send a little to make this young man's dream come true while he fights this terrible disease. Think of the smile that will light up his face when he cranks that engine for the first time. Think of the smile on your face when you think about how you helped!............Ken




Happy Birthday, Brett!

http://elcaminocentral.com/images/lustrous/misc/progress.gif

I'm going to get a check on the way soon. Just have a lot going on at the moment from the car crashing into my house the other night. In return I only want a chance to be present for the first cruise or show that this young man can bring his cruck to. Make sure you let me know Carretera!

:beer:

Hey everybody its Brett, I want to say thank toeverybody that is helping me out and my car. I think it is really cool that you guys acually care. I really look forward to my first drive or car show in my El Camino.
- Brett

HAPPY 16TH BIRTHDAY BRETT!!! I hope you enjoyed your day!!! Mom:inlove:

Brett , Happy birthday and may you enjoy a life time of Birthdays !

bump!

ive tearing down my 87 el camino to rebuild it and everything this summer while im wrking. im 17 and me and my dad are doing everything at our raceshop. message me if theres any parts or trim you may need because if i have it or am replacing mine and its still in decent condition ill be more than happy to ship and give it to him.

I'm checking in on this as I can with all the other goings on. Thanks Ken for keeping it bumped up. Carretera!...Give me a call!:beer:

ive tearing down my 87 el camino to rebuild it and everything this summer while im wrking. im 17 and me and my dad are doing everything at our raceshop. message me if theres any parts or trim you may need because if i have it or am replacing mine and its still in decent condition ill be more than happy to ship and give it to him.

Thanks for the offer Red, Brett and his father are putting together a list of parts, etc needed. You are one lucky young man to have a dad with a raceshop.
We are still waiting on the transmission.
What's mainly needed are the donations $5 to $25, so far $170 has been collected,
M & M is keeping a tally of donations, you can see it all at their website M & M Speed and Custom.
Thanks all for prayers and best wishes and yes we will see to it that Brett's dream comes true, Tony.

Thanks everyone for their continued support and keeping this bumped up! Brett and the family really appreciate it.

Rafael Brett and family
:beer::You_Rock::beer:

Gee I was planning to send what I thought was a decent donation of $50. When I saw the poor little total here today I have decided to double it. Now any 20 of you can match it with only $5 each!...Or 10 with $10...and so on. One pictue of this young man living his dream will be worth it!

Thanks for calling me with updates Carretera

If you will set up a paypal account I'll give $100. It's easy to do and if funds are transferred from another pp account, there's no service charge. Someone in Florida, please help us out here. I bet everyone's waiting on ya to step up.:texas:

I have a 10" Sony Xplod Sub w/ a box if he needs audio. It isn't exactly an alpine but thats about as much as I can give right now. I probably have a deck I could pitch in too. Lemme know.

Also, check craigslist for parts. Can get stuff for cheap on there.

I'm with Jarhead on this. We need a paypal account. International chequing takes forever to clear and is cumbersome at best. Was going to suggest some identities but that is not fair. Anyone close in Fl. would do fine. :beer:

Gentlemembers...As far as I know everyone who sends a donation will get credit but individual amounts will not be made public. Correct me Rich or Tony if I am wrong here. All donations will be seen as equal to the others. Please send any little amount and make the worldwide NECOA showing of support for this young man strong!

My check is out in todays mail. Yes Paypal could be faster but the USPS will do. For any who don't like to use personal checks...The fee for USPS money orders is inexpensive.

Even though I will have the opportunity to be present for the result of this dream as most won't...My presence will be both as a representative of the NECOA for all of you, and hopefully as a new friend of this young member and his family.

NECOA and Brett...:You_Rock:

The Pay Pal issue was brought up at the beginning of this thread and I wished it had been done as more donations would have been received, I don't know how difficult it would be to set up a Pay Pal account that would be used for the purpose we are collecting donations for, but we should not let one method of payment stop us from helping Brett achieve his dream.
A checking account has been set up under the names of Rafael Ballestero (Brett's father) and Rebecca Marchese (Mrs. M & M) and for a check to be cashed it requires the signature of both, M & M is keeping a tally of the donations, it contains the names of persons that have contributed and the club they belong to, at the bottom is the total amount received, individual amounts are not shown.

Please send any contribution you can no matter how small in the form of a check or Money order to:
Rafael Ballestero & Rebecca Marchese
C/O Make A Dream Come True
14781 SW 26 St.
Davie, Fl 33325

Jarhead, thanks for the offer, sorry a Pay Pal account has not been stablished.

1980fithegen, thanks for the offer, a list is being put together of what's needed so I don't know if what you offered is needed. Also thanks for the Ebay suggestion.

Thanks to all of you that have made a noble effort to help Brett . Hope others will join us in this fund raiser .

I hope donations are still coming in for this worthy young man and his 'cruck'. I'll keep check in this thread for updates since I can't get to the M&M forum for updates. I finally joined it a couple of months ago but found I was permenantly banned when I went back to look for progress updates in this worthy cause. I'm sure that is some kind of glitch that can be corrected but in the mean time 2 things here: 1. Keep sending donations no matter how small! 2. No more :beer: for anyone who starts calling me Tuggy!

Caterra, the reason I do paypal is, I don't uae checks, I work offshore and when I'm not offshore. I'm on my land 60 miles from town. If you're serious about helping this fella, educate yourself on paypal. Make it easy for those that will donate.

Jarhead, again thanks for the offer of a donation, I do sincerely want to help Brett, I'm helping out by monitoring this thread for M & M as Rich is very busy running his business, I've already communicated the Pay Pal issue and he is checking it out, it is a little more complicated as it must follow the guidelines stablished, two names on the account for accountability, we must make sure all donations are beyond question as to their use, all money is to go towards helping Brett with his car.

Randy I spoke with Rich about you being banned and he said to call him at 954-693-5020 or pm or call me with your email address, name, M&M code name and M&M password and he'll straighten out. You can still go to the website and look at the information without logging in. Your donation arrived today, thank you very much.

Thanks everyone, Tony.

Ok all I'll say it once again. It is understood that in this day and age some don't even use checks or don't like to because of the risks with identity theft and such. Some do all bill paying online and don't even keep a stamp around. With a quick stop at an 'old fashioned' post office you can obtain a postal money order, stamp, or stamped envelope. Heck they will even mail it for you there! If you feel the need to reduce your donations by these minimal costs, then do so. The amount donated does not have to be divisible by 5. A few like Rich, Becky, and Tony are putting forth much effort toward this very worthy cause. You are only being asked for a little!

Carretera you have my e-dress! And of course it is available here on ECC at the current directors list. I don't want to crap up this thread with that little issue but just had to plug in a little humor.

I've been away from the site for a few days, thus have not been monitoring the donations. However, I just checked the total donations on the M & M web site. My friends, we are not coming together as we could to help this young man realize his dream. As I've asked before, imagine yourself in this terrible position for just a second - and how would it make you feel to sense your child's dream slipping away from him/her? I've never been there, and I pray that I nor anyone else ever has to go through this experience. But, it IS happening, and we have the power to stop the slipping away. Please open your hearts and pocketbooks and send some of your love and money to make sure this dream continues. Give up a 6-pack or 2, or even a few glasses of your favorite buttermilk, but please send what you can to Brett. Thank you very much............Ken

Sending, money order out today. Hope it all come together to make this wish a reality.

We do thank everyone from the bottom of our hearts for their continued help on Brett's dream.

We have worked on his cruck a bit, with some help. One of our problems is a huge lack of knowledge, but we do have the desire to learn. Brett has enjoyed spending time under the hood working on his cruck.

Items completed to date...new fuel tank, sending unit, fuel lines, fuel pump, carburetor, air cleaner, valve covers. The Camino now runs and stops. Next item is to do a tune up...plugs, wires, timing, etc. We can probably afford most of the tune up parts, but aside from the plugs lack the knowledge. Are there any members near Lake Worth, FL that can help with teaching us? We have tools and a nice garage to work in.

THis will also help Brett personally meet other Camino lovers.

Any takers? :nanawrench::beer::You_Rock::help:

Rafael and Brett

Rafael and Brett...No takers yet? PM me your mailing address and I'll order a Haynes manual and have it sent to you. Then you can do the tune up part by looking at the pictures and such. Hope you have a jack and jack stand for changing the Right side plugs...Removing the tire and reaching through is the way to go on that side. You will need someone with a little expertise to help with the timing part and you can tweek the carb for proper idle RPM's at the same time.

Happy to hear of the progress!

:beer: Randy

Randy:

Thanks for the help! We sent you a PM with our address, and look forward to the manual. Tomorrow, we will meet Tony (Carretera). We are looking forward to meeting / visiting with him.

You guys are great!!:You_Rock:
Rafael and Brett

If he brings his 55 Chevy, get a pic and post it! None of us have seen it yet! The manual is on its way.

Hoping the donations continue to flow in to make this dream a reality!

:beer:

Will do!

:beer:

We met
Tony (Carretera) today. He's a great guy, and offered some good advice. He left Brett some good reading material about El Caminos, overdrive transmissions, etc.

He didn't drive his '55, so no pictures to post.

Rafael and Brett

:hail2:

UPS tracking says your repair manual will be delivered tomorrow (14th). I know that both of you will enjoy some of the how to information and turning wrenches together. The satisfaction factor more than doubles!...lol

Sunday the wifey and I drove up to Lake Worth to meet Brett, Rafael and Kris, Brett's mother, his older brother was not home, real nice family. Brett is a fine young man, a firm hand shake, he has a 1980 Conquista that looks like it was a one owner car, is all complete with power everything, cruise control, power seats, etc. the body is in real good shape with very minor rust in the unusual places, a nickel hole just behind the left side view mirror and a small hole where the right cargo bar was attached.
Randy they are going to put to good use the repair manual, they are more mechanical inclined than they think.
You all take care, Tony.

Caterra, the reason I do paypal is, I don't uae checks, I work offshore and when I'm not offshore. I'm on my land 60 miles from town. If you're serious about helping thislla, educate yourself on paypal. Make it easy for those that will donate.ile,

Jarhead,
I use PayPAl all the time, and have an account. You do not know me, but I have been on the site for a while, and have done business with Rich at M & M, and would like to help if I can. If you will P.M. me, I will give you my PAyPal account and send any funds you send me to M & M. You Jar heads had to trust this Air Force guy in the 70's, you still can.

Sam

Jarhead , Thank you for the exceptional offer you previously made for Brett and Sam for offering to help facilitate his effort . Hope other will pitch in .

Thanks Randy, I got the Haynes manual today. Now I have a book to read over summer school!
-Brettbowtie smile

Over the summer for school. Not summer school...hahaha Were not that dumb over here
-Brett

Rafael and Brett , What have you been working on lately ?

Brett and I are ready to give the El Camino a good tune with a distributor and wires upgrade. Rich from M&M helped out with helping us order a billet distributor and some 8mm wires. Randy sent Brett a Haynes manual, Brett has been reading. When our parts arrive, we will get started. Rich may help a little with the distributor swap, we have never done this before. Brett and I are anxious to learn.

Rafael and Brett

:You_Rock:

Randy:

Thanks for the Haynes manual! It's full of great info.

Rafael

Just a :poke: to ask those that can , to help Brett with his El Camino rebuild .

Just asking, How about posting some pictures of this Build,and pictures of the items donated,surley some one has taken pictures,Cant wait to see Brett Driving His El camino :texas: Went to the web site Which one is His ???

Oh boy, I am about to show my lack of computer knowledge....I don't know how to post photos. Maybe you guys can offer a quick lesson. I have pictures, just need to learn how to post them.

There are pictures posted on the M&M Speed and custom site, though. Go to mandmspeed.com and look on their forum page, there is a topic thread with a very similar title as this one. The thread on M&M has photos at the very beginning. There you will see Brett, his El Camino, and a family photo or two.

Rafael

:nanawrench::beer:

ile,

Jarhead,
I use PayPAl all the time, and have an account. You do not know me, but I have been on the site for a while, and have done business with Rich at M & M, and would like to help if I can. If you will P.M. me, I will give you my PAyPal account and send any funds you send me to M & M. You Jar heads had to trust this Air Force guy in the 70's, you still can.

Sam
Hey Sam, is that your real name or your clown name? My grand dad and my gunny told me two things that made a huge impact. #1. NEVER trust a clown that says "trust me with yo money".. #2. NEVER trust a flyboy that says trust me!! Understandably, I'm a bit nervous. Can someone from Floridia verify that this clown is trustworthy before I send my ill gotten gains?:secret:

Hi Jarhead, you are one funny guy, the way you sound I don't think you look like the picture in the Avatar.
I know of Samjudi through his posts and from his dealings with Rich at M&M, I can't vouch for Sam but I can for myself, whatever you send to him if it doesn't get to Brett's account I will put it in myself in your name.
Take care, Tony.

Hey Tony , After reading several of jarheads other posts , I have to say that he is not funny , he`s hilarious . He should be on T.V. The " clown thing " confused me for a minute until I remembered Sam`s avatar photo has the big red nose/ clown theme going . jarhead , thanks again for you generous offer for Brett . Much appreciated by all of us . Hope this tropical storm heading towards Texas doesn`t cause you guys any problems .

Please keep Brett in mind and help out if you can . :smileyb:

The distributor came today and now i just need some help to install it...and all the other little things. Thanks for the magazines Rich.
-Brett

We received the new distributor and wires sent to us from Rich at M&M Speed and Cusstom, which came from donated funds. Thanks to all of you! Brett and I are looking forward to attempting the install...hopefully we can handle it. Time to read the Haynes manual sent to us from Randy, it will be very helpful.

Rafael

:nanawrench:

ile,

Jarhead,
I use PayPAl all the time, and have an account. You do not know me, but I have been on the site for a while, and have done business with Rich at M & M, and would like to help if I can. If you will P.M. me, I will give you my PAyPal account and send any funds you send me to M & M. You Jar heads had to trust this Air Force guy in the 70's, you still can.

Sam
Ok, Clown, Since you paid enough people in Florida to vouch for you, I guess I have no choice but to trust you. PM me your address and I'll send you some money. Under 1 condition.. You will talk to the boys in the Storm Chaser airplanes and have them pour some Tropical Storm seeds in the Gulf of Mexico about 250 miles south and west of Galveston. We need some rain brother.:dontknow:

Hi Jarhead, you are one funny guy, the way you sound I don't think you look like the picture in the Avatar.
I know of Samjudi through his posts and from his dealings with Rich at M&M, I can't vouch for Sam but I can for myself, whatever you send to him if it doesn't get to Brett's account I will put it in myself in your name.
Take care, Tony.
Alright Tony, i'm waiting on that clown to send me his paypal address and i'll send the money. Thanks for twisting my arm and making me feel safe in knowing that this will get to those that need it. Semper Fi:texas:

Thanks Jarhead! I'm not a Marine but my grandson Michael is, he's currently in Jackonville, Fl finishing his training in "aircraft maintenance" in parenthesis cause that's what the recruiter told him, he is actually learning aircraft support vehicle maintenance which is good as he has learned vehicle electrical and a/c maintenance/repair. Michael is going to Japan to continue his learning experience.
Take care, Tony. :You_Rock:

Jarhead , Thanks again for your generous contribution and Samjudi for helping out . I hope others will be inspired and will do what they can to help Brett out with his Camino build . :You_Rock:

Once again the Air Force comes through to help the Marines(did it quite a bit in the early '70's in S.E. Asia). As always, glad we can help for a good cause. Anyone else need help with paypal payment drop a p.m.
Looks like the Storm Chasers droped the seeds, but the hit too far east. We are getting all your rain here in S.W. Fla. Course I can sell you a nice little house here.......

Good luck, hope the Elky is coming along nicely.

Sam

INCOMING from 'JarHead' for the Elky build. Should be there by Friday or Saturday.

Sam

Thanks everyone for the continued support! Brett is excited. His best friend Anthony and dad Tony came and helped us install the new distributor M&M Speed and Custom sent us from donated funds. The install went well, and we look forward to installing the new wires soon.

Gregg, the gentleman donating the tranny is almost finished building it and will be ready to ship in about a week or two. When it arrives, we will be ready to install it, and try to do a rear end gear swap (3.42's) and a posi rear. Once we get through that, it is time for exhaust, and then cosmetics....Brett can't wait.

Rafael:nanawrench::You_Rock::beer:

Has anyone considered a torque converter yet to go with the transmission or is it being shipped with one?

On a note to Rafael, when you guys install that trans, keep in mind, a 700r4 MUST HAVE THE TV CABLE PROPERLY HOOKED UP. Its very important to install and adjust it properly, or you will burn up the transmission in about 100-200 miles of use. On a 700r4 the TV cable is not just a kickdown cable. It also regulates the fluid pressure. So if your moving at half throttle or full throttle, and no TV cable telling the transmission to increase fluid pressure for the load, it will allow the clutches to slip badly and cook the trans quickly. Usuallly in the 3-4 clutch pack. If you are running an aftermarket carb, like an Edelbrock or Holly, you'll need to get a 700r4 linkage correction piece for the carb to have the correct geometry for the cable adjustment. You may also need brackets for the cables, both the throttle and TV cable. Just be sure to get it right. I can't emphasize enough to make sure its right.

Thanks for the info, hotrodpc. I had heard that before, but didn't realize the tranny would get damaged so quickly (100-200 miles). We will make sure we get it right. It sounds like we may be better off to let a professional tranny shop do the install.

Also, the gentleman building / donating the tranny will be providing a torque converter along with the tranny. He said it will be a corvette converter.

Rafael

bowtie smile

Driving like a sissy, you could get more than 200 miles. I bought a 85 4x4 truck with about 2000 miles on the crate 350 that had a bad trans. I went and looked at it, noticed the Eddy intake and Eddy Carb were new looking. The kid said yeah, the motor has 1500-2000 miles on it, I just put the intake and carb on it about 2 weeks before the trans went. I noticed the TV cable wasn't adapted to the Eddy carb. The truck also had headers recently put on it too. For the cost of the headers, intake and Carb I bought the truck. Being a 4x4 trans shops quoted over $1500 to rebuild the trans and they weren't putting that kind of money in it. So I bought it for $500. The motor alone was a $1500 Summit GM Goodwrench Crate motor. And I drove the truck home. It lost 3rd and 4th. I drove it home on surface streets at 35-40mph. I've acquired several vehicles due to people not hooking up the TV cable.

BTW, I don't mean to scare you with that TV cable. If you are mechanical, you can install that trans no problem. I've got a good link to show you how to adjust it properly. Also, if you don't feel comfortable with the cable, go ahead and install the trans, then take it to a trans shop and let them adjust it for you. Its really simple, just be letting you know to make sure you get it done. I hate to see everyone's efforts go in the trash over something so minor like many people have done in the past.
I can also get you the links to the parts you need to make it work if you let me know which carb you're using. If its the OEM Qjet carb, you should be good with what you have already. If its an Eddy or Holley, I'll show you the parts you need to adapt the throttle linkage and TV cable. Just saying, don't get scared away from it.

We are not very mechanically inclined...we know enough to get into trouble if it is beyond simple parts swapping. We are eager to learn, and Brett is having a blast.

The motor is a Chevy 350 crate motor, edelbrock intake manifold,edelbrock valve covers with matching air cleaner. We recently installed a billet distributor. The carb is a 650 cfm 4 barrel Summit Racing street strip carb. Please send me the link for adjusting the TV cable, we'd love to see it. I am not sure how the tranny install will go. We do not know enough to do it ourselves. Rich at M&M Speed and Custom may help point us in the right direction.

Rafael & Brett

:smile3:

I am not positive which carb Summit put their name on, so here is the parts for both Holley and Edelbrock Carbs. I'm gonig to say its most likely you have the Holley carb with Summits name on it.

700r4 TV cable corrector for Edelbrock Carb
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/SUM-700203/

700r4 TV cable corrector for Holley Carb
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/SUM-700202/

I like this piece for the throttle linkage and TV Cable bracket. Reason being, its adjustable so if you decide to switch carbs from one brand to another, then you can simply change the adjustment of where the brackets hold your cables so that you are sure to get a full pull off your throtle cable or TV cable and not have to order a differant bracket. This one is pretty much universal.
Throttle and TV Cable Bracket for Holley, Eddy or Qjet Carbs.
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/EDL-8036/

TV Cable Adjustments for 700r4 (Lots of info in these links, find the one you understand best and go with it)

http://www.tvmadeez.com/article/index.html

http://www.73-87.com/7387garage/drivetrain/tvcable.htm

http://www.purplesagetradingpost.com/sumner/techinfo/700R4p1.html

Hope our members here at ECC will keep Brett in mind and help out where they can . :smileyb:

The donated transmission from Gregg Bruce Auto is built and ready to ship. We are currently exploring shipping options. Brett is looking forward to its arrival so that it can be installed. Once the tranny is installed and the rear end gears are swapped to a ratio suitable for the 700R4, he will have a rolling (driving) car. He's excited for the project to progress further.

Rafael

:nanawrench:

Glad to hear of the progress! :beer:

The donated transmission from Gregg Bruce Auto is built and ready to ship. We are currently exploring shipping options. Brett is looking forward to its arrival so that it can be installed. Once the tranny is installed and the rear end gears are swapped to a ratio suitable for the 700R4, he will have a rolling (driving) car. He's excited for the project to progress further.

Rafael

:nanawrench:

Umm... ship from where? I've been reading through some of the posts on this thread. I think It's been asked before, are there any pics of the progress? Might be a good idea to post the pics. Thanks.

We had a great day yesterday. We went to the hospital for Brett to receive his monthly chemo treatment. The doctor said his blood count is actually a bit too good. His immune system is stronger than expected, which somehow hinders the treatment a bit, so they are making adjustments to his treatment. Imagine hearing he is doing a little too well, we are so blessed!

After his treatment, we went to M & M Speed and Custom to pick up a cross member to fit the 700R 4 transmission (donated by M & M Speed and Custom). We also picked up a rear axle with 3.73 gears and limited slip to work well with the new trans. This was purchased with donated funds, and sold very inexpensively to the project (cost was $300 for the complete rear).

The transmission shipped yesterday from Kansas. It is due to arrive next week. Once the transmission arrives, it is likely that a local transmission shop will donate the installation.

I don't know how to post pictures...can someone tell me how?

Thank you club members for all you do!

Rafael, Kris (mom), Brett and Jason (big brother)

:nanawrench::You_Rock::beer:

Great news, on all fronts. Hope it keeps coming.

Sam

If you look in the search tab in the top and put in post pics it will take you to several posts of how to do it. I just learned last week, set up a photobucket account, load the pics on your computer from digital cameral, upload your pics to photobucket, set up an album, find the pic go to the bottom of hte popup below the pic and highlight it(it copies the pic) then go to the post you want to put it in move your curser to the place you want the pic and right click and paste it. It sound complicated, but once you get it on the photobucket site it is easy. Hope this helps and may God continue to bless you all.

Great news!

Yesterday, Brett and I delivered the El Camino to A1 Transmission in Delray Beach. The owner, Brad heard about Brett and needing help with some installation work. He has donated the installation of the transmission as well as the new rear axle!
If anyone in the Delray Beach area needs transmission work, see Brad. He's a great guy, and is helping Brett's project come closer to completion.

Rafael

:nanawrench::beer:

But i heard from the news that all Americans are just greedy selfish sob's and the only reason we help anyone is to benefit us! I'd be leery of the "FOB'S" that are donating time and money...:dontknow:
(FOB) Friends of Brett's

But i heard from the news that all Americans are just greedy selfish sob's and the only reason we help anyone is to benefit us! I'd be leery of the "FOB'S" that are donating time and money...:dontknow:
(FOB) Friends of Brett's

Glad to hear things are looking up.

Beware of the FOB`s . Friends of Brett . Jarhead , that was pretty good and thank you again for your generous contribution to help Brett get his Camino done . Thanks also to all of you that have provided a contribution or effort on Brett`s behalf . Despite all the crap we often hear , the vast majority of people out there are the kinds of people that would be welcomed at your family`s dinner table . This site at ECC keeps proving that . Hopefully others will also join in this effort . :smileyb:

Raphel and Brett , Thought I would ask if you were able to get the transmission installed . Hope others will try to help out and wish all of you a happy Thanksgiving .

Just stumbled upon this posting while looking for some information on power to manual windows. As a Wish Kid myself, I know the amazement you can get from the outpouring of support! Hang in there Brett and family, it's a tough fight but you guys can do it. And if you're ever in the NC area, let me know! (And I'd help if I could!)

Do you guys need any bed moldings? I have extra ones! Please send me a PM so you can tell me which ones you need.

Can anybody give us an update as to what has happened with our young friend? :poke: What's his status, and what's the current status of the Elky? :poke: Are there specific items needed to complete the build? :dontknow: Please just give us a thorough briefing. THANKS very much.....................Ken :beer:
Rich, Mikey, Rafael, or Tony...Can you give us an update?

I just spoke with Rafael, Brett's dad and he will give us a full update within the next couple of days. Brett is doing real well and the elky is coming along fine, a dual exhaust has been installed and Make a Wish Foundation is getting involved and will be taking care of paint and interior. Thanks for donations and prayers, Tony.

Hello everyone...we are very sorry we haven't checked in for a while. Brett is doing very well with his treatments, and life has been very close to normal (we are very blessed). Tony (Carretera) called yesterday to check on us, and let us know folks were wondering about Brett's status and El Camino progress. Here is a bit of what has been going going on....

The holidays kept us very busy, Brett's older brother Jason has been accepted to FSU, his college of choice. We have been very busy with college paperwork, dorm applications, paying fees, etc.

My wife, Kris tried to upload some of Brett's Elky photos, but was unable to do so. As she navigated the site, it seems you have to be a paying member to post photos. With our current financial position due in part to Brett's illness and college stuff, we are unable to be paying members. Anyone wishing to see photos, please send us an email address, and we can send some pics.

El Camino progress....a good friend of ours Tony Armeli, who has been assisting / teaching us about cars, helped with the installation of dual exhaust with Flowmaster mufflers. It sounds great, and Brett smiles big when he fires it up! The 700R4 tranny and 7.5 limited slip rear with 3.73's are installed. Brad at A1 Trans in Delray Beach donated the trans and rear installation. Brett is now communicating with the Make a Wish Foundation; it seems that they may gift him a custom paint job, and some interior work. We will provide more info on this as it develops.

Rafael and Brett
:nanawrench:

The Make a Wish Foundation is currently trying to locate / search for a body shop near to us (Lake Worth), to help with the paint and interior work. We don't know yet exactly what will be needed, but we do know that we need carpet, headliner, all new rubber seals for windows and doors, new seat belts, etc.

Brett's Elky currently has a "split bench" seat, with dual arm rests. The driver side is a power seat, passenger side is manual.He mentioned that he prefers the bench seat which has the one piece bench and single arm rest. He desires this so that it is easier to seat three people. It needs to fit his 1980. We have not found one anywhere on the internet, does anyone know where one can be found? Did this generation of Elky come with this style of seat? Are modifications necessary?

Rafael

Thanks for the update Rafael. I guess the holidays were very good to all of you with Brett doing so well and all. Having a Nole in the family aint so bad either...though others may have a differing opinion on that. The contributing members thing is to post pics in the gallery. You can place pics in a post but I even have trouble with that. My camera makes the files wind up too large. Its easy to set up a membership to a place like Photobucket and put the pics in albums there. Then you can click on share this album and it automatically copies the link. Then just paste it in a post here on ECC.

I'm a little jealous over how nice Bretts Elky is going to turn out! lol But Kudos to all who have given a little towards it and double Kudos to the Make a Wish Foundation for their gift to Brett and so many others!

:beer: Randy

I'll PM you my email address Rafael. Have your wife email those pics to me, and I'll post them in this thread for everyone to see.

Thanks very much, and I hope and pray that Brett continues to do well. Let's all do as much as we can to make his dream come true.....................Ken :You_Rock:

Hotrodpc,

I emailed a bunch of photos to you last night...I hope they came through ok. Please let me know.

Rafael

Thanks Rafeal. I did get the pics in Zip files. Now I just have to figure out where Firefox saved them as downloaded files, and sort thru them and get them posted here. I've seen a few of them. You are doing great on this build.

The pics Larry?

Pictures :dontknow:

WHOA, Thanks for the reminder guys. I've been so busy, I actually forget about them. The way they were sent to me, I've got some work to do to them before posting. Just walked in the door, and will hope to get some on this evening. So Sorry guys, just stay after me like you 2 did. :poke: until I get them up. Rafeal did his part,:beer:. I'll get on it soon !!!:secret:

For Real, I tried posting some last night and my connection was horrible. I'm going to try some right now too since I have a few minutes before running to job #2.

NO Luck earlier today and again just now. Is anyone else having an issue when you click manage attachments nothing happens??? Maybe it's not my connection. :dontknow:

Holy Smokes Batman !!! I finally have the Manage Attachments feature working, but now I'm on my secondary laptop since I left my primary laptop at the impound yard. The pics on are on my primary computer. I'm beggining to think it's not meant for me to post these pictures. :dontknow:

Would anyone else be interested in trying? I'm fairly certain I can dig the emails up off my mail server and forward them to whoever would be interested in helping out. If so, just PM me your email address, and I'll forward the email.

Sorry guys, honestly I've tried multiple times, multiple days.

I'll try. PM sent with email address.

I'll try. PM sent with email address.

Awesome. Do what you can. We all appreciate it. Emails have been forwarded. :You_Rock:

Got the emails. We'll see if this works.

First I will add Rafeal's reply to each post them add pics in order. I am resizing them all and can only upload 3 per post but after I get done with all of these I will upload them to a photobucket page and provide a link so everyone can see them in a slideshow without having to click on each individual pic.



Larry:

Thank you for expressing interest in Brett’s El Camino project.

Attached are some photos. I will send you several emails, as my computer doesn’t like sending files that are too large. These 3 photos are of the beginning…disassembly of an aftermarket fuel injection system which was no longer working, so we chose to convert back to carburetor. This was at a time when Brett had lost his hair to radiation treatment.

More photos to follow…

Rafael

A few months later…Brett has a new head of hair.

These photos are after installing a new fuel tank. Brett is installing a new fuel pump, fuel lines, and carburetor. We received a lot of help from Brett’s friend Anthony, and his dad Tony. We could not have done it without them. They know a bunch, we are just learning.

More photos to follow…

Rafael

Heres more

At this point we have a running car. It still needs more work.

Photos are of Brett and the Elky; Brett and Brother Jason; Brett with mom, dad, brother, and dogs.

More work ahead…

Rafael

And more

Installation of new billet distributor and aluminum valve covers.

Rafael

More

Brett uncrating the tranny donated by Gregg Bruce Auto, getting the tranny and new rear loaded up to go to tranny shop.

Rafael

Still more

Loading up the El Camino, ready to go to tranny shop. Delivery to tranny shop, pic of newly installed 700R. Photo of Brett with Brad, the gentleman that donated the installation of tranny and new rear end.

Rafael

even more

Awesome Sean. You made me look real bad. :poke: Obviously your method is much different than mine, :dontknow: but it works. Just glad to finally seen them posted. :You_Rock:

El Camino receiving the installation of dual exhaust, at Anthony and Tony’s house. They have a lift, making this much easier.

Let me know what you think about Brett’s project….it’s coming along pretty well. The cosmetic work begins soon.

Rafael

Last 2

OK, I'm gonna take a break and them will make a photobucket page and provide a link.

Break over!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Heres a link to the slideshow of pics in order.

http://s1120.photobucket.com/albums/l497/MyElkySS/Bretts%20pics/

Awesome Sean. You made me look real bad. :poke: Obviously your method is much different than mine, :dontknow: but it works. Just glad to finally seen them posted. :You_Rock:

You're welcome. I can see why they wouldnt upload for you. File sizes were too big.

I had to resize them all.

Hey Guys,
The Elky looks Really BAD!! Is it up and running yet? How about joining us on the West Coast 2/17-18 for dinner and a tour of the Muscle car Museum. We would really like to meet you and see what you have accomplished.

Sam

Thanks Sean! The Photobucket thing is just what I would have done too. I even have to divide up pics to send in e-mails because a lot of carriers can't handle as much as I can send at once. It is great to finally see a bit of a picture story of this thing. Even better to be able to recognize the interest for learning and doing that this young man obviously has! :beer: to the Brettamino being a part of this great association for years to come!

Sam I am sure that Brett and the family will be attending meets when all is done. I believe there will be a sort of introduction thing held at M&M once the project is complete. I am certainly looking forward to it so stay tuned!

Randy

Guys:

thank you so much for helping with the photos, it is nice to see them posted. I am sorry I don't have enough computer savvy to resize them and post. Your help is truly appreciated.

Brett's El camino is moving along...no more work since the exhaust installation, but we are getting closer to paint and interior work. We have had conversations with the Make a Wish Foundation, and it seems very likely they will gift Brett some of his wish. We met a great guy, Dominic, who owns and operates Palm Beach Coachworks, an auto body and paint shop near us. He is very willing to help. He came to our house yesterday, looked the car over to provide an estimate to Make a Wish. He was surprised at the overall good condition of the car, and said that there is very little repair work required prior to custom paint. We are hoping for the work to begin in April, after the snowbird season is over, and he has more time to dedicate to this project.

Brett and I are hoping to attend Super Chevy, so we can meet some of you guys...we are looking forward to it.

Rafael and Brett

:nanawrench::beer::You_Rock:

That is really great! We will look forward to meeting you both too! Keep track of the Super Chevy prep thread. When it gets closer there might be a get together for a dinner someplace on Friday night and there will certainly be a cookout at Hotcamino's Ocean Surf Motel on Singer Island after the first day at the track on Saturday. All members who come to the meets count! Even if you don't bring the Elky along!
:beer:

I'm copying a reply in the Cars of Dreams thread to here for an update in this thread.....

Brett's cruck is coming along nicely. Rafael said that the negotiations are still in the works with the "Make a Wish" bunch for paint and maybe wheels and that there is an interior shop that will possibly take care of that part. The rest is mostly good to go. It was a pleasure to finally meet this whole family and they came to find us to do just that. Of course Brett had more interest in checking all of the great rides in the museum and at the show than standing around with us socializing but that is OK with me! They are still coming to Super Chevy as well to meet more of us.

:beer:

:thumbup:

OUTSTANDING!........................Ken :You_Rock:

Maybe we can get a group discount for painting more than 1 car.

I have a feeling I'm going to be looking for another painter.

How about a little info on "Super Chevy" for those of us not in he know? When/ where? It would be great to get a full state turnout.

Sam

Sam , check out the forum in Region 6 , Fl. for Super Chevy 2012 which is being held in Palm Beach / Jupiter Mar. 24 and 25 . Remember we have the Nat`l. Muscle Car Assoc. show this weekend in Bradenton on Mar. 17 and 18 . Thanks for your help and hospitality on the Muscle Car Museum show we attended in Punta Gorda a few weeks ago . We had a good time and the area is well worth another visit at some time .

Glad to have met you guys. Look forward to doing more in 10 mo.2 wks. 3 days, 5hrs. 27 min. when I retire(not that I am counting). Will try to see/ do more nex year. Anyone wanting to come to see the MUscle car Museum, I cn assure you it is well worth the trip, unless you are a FORD fan....:beer:
Sam

We had a great time meeting some of the guys....we hope to meet some more at Super Chevy. See you then.

Rafael and Brett:nanawrench:

Looking forward to meeting you guys also.

Are you bringing the Elky to Super Chevy?

Good news! Brett received a phone call from the Make a Wish Foundation yesterday; they are granting him his complete wish....Brett has been working hard on his El Camino restoration project, and Make a Wish will provide the custom paint job, new interior, custom wheels, new tires. My boy is very excited to say the least. This morning we loaded the El Camino on the flatbed trailer, and delivered it to the paint shop. Yoo-hoo!!!
Thanks everyone for your help getting us to this point....Brett appreciates the help.
Rafael

:nanawrench::You_Rock::nanawrench::beer:

Thats GREAT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Cant wait to see it at the Ocala show this fall:poke:

Nice to meet both of you at super chevy.

When you get some more pics, send them my way and I will get them posted for everyone.

Good news! Brett received a phone call from the Make a Wish Foundation yesterday; they are granting him his complete wish....Brett has been working hard on his El Camino restoration project, and Make a Wish will provide the custom paint job, new interior, custom wheels, new tires. My boy is very excited to say the least. This morning we loaded the El Camino on the flatbed trailer, and delivered it to the paint shop. Yoo-hoo!!!
Thanks everyone for your help getting us to this point....Brett appreciates the help.
Rafael

:nanawrench::You_Rock::nanawrench::beer:
Awesome News. Can't wait to see pics. Thanks for the update Rafael.

Great News !!
Maybe ya'll can join us at the Gainesville meet & Greet !!
http://www.elcaminocentral.com/showthread.php?t=48957

Will do!

I was just wondering has there been any pic's sense this started.? I'm glad he got his wish and can't wait to see the completed project.:nanawrench:

Great news Rafael and Brett!

I was just wondering has there been any pic's sense this started.? I'm glad he got his wish and can't wait to see the completed project.:nanawrench:

Heres what there is so far.


http://s1120.photobucket.com/albums/l497/MyElkySS/Bretts%20pics/

This is the great news that so many of us have been hoping for . I`m sure Brett , Raphael and family are elated ! :smileyb: Keep us informed as it goes along .

Very nice project going on there. I'm so glad to be apart of a club that will make dreams come true. Nice pics as well.:You_Rock::texas: