68 L78 Restoration

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Topic: 68 L78 Restoration (Read 22151 times)

jason
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68 L78 Restoration
« on: March 18, 2005, 06:19:05 pm »

I thought I would start a new topic on my 68 L78 4 speed restoration. I have been taking pictures as I make progress. I would like to share them with every one. I just finished up the sub frame assembly. Every thing is new or rebuilt. I was wondering if someone with 4 piston disk brakes on their car could tell me if the brake bleeders are on the top or bottom of the caliper. I had mine rebuilt and I am not sure if they mixed up the two sides. I'm not sure if it makes a difference because the small brake line that connects from the rubber hose to the caliper, would either be on top or bottom. This is hard to explain. I have not bought those brake lines yet.

Jason


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jason
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Re:68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #1 on: March 18, 2005, 06:26:49 pm »

Front Veiw


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TDWZ28
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Re:68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #2 on: March 19, 2005, 03:37:38 am »

Jason...The bleeders go to the top. This allows the trapped air to be bled out. Looks good so far.


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Re:68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #3 on: March 19, 2005, 01:22:40 pm »

Jason starting to come together.Looks great.Bill Wertheim is restoring his 68 Yenko now its under the yenko section.Might give you some tidbits of info.Tim


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jason
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Re:68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #4 on: March 19, 2005, 01:24:50 pm »

Thanks alot. I thought they were on top when I removed them. That will solve my brake line problem! I also figured out how to change my Jpg size.

Jason


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jason
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Re:68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #5 on: March 19, 2005, 04:49:13 pm »

One problem I did run into I thought everyone should know, when dealing with these 4 piston calipers. I bought aftermarket rotors from my local auto parts store. They are a one piece design. When I installed the calipers they were hitting the hub of the rotor. The original ones are two peices and have a lot of clearance for the calipers.( see the attached picture) So I took 150 thousands off of the hub. This took care of the problem and gave me enough clearance so the rotors wouldn't hit the caliper. A couple of restoration books do offer a rotor for 67 and 68 nova's (one peice design) with disk breaks but they are 100-120 dollars a peice I paid 60.00 at my local auto parts store. You can have them turned down on a lathe.

Jason


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MOTIONHARRELLYENKO
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Re:68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #6 on: March 20, 2005, 08:02:30 am »

Jason,Thanks for posting the pictures of your 68 Nova SS L78 Nova under restoration!! Nothing like being hands on,doing it yourself.2 things that come of it,pride that you did it and learning about this Awesome car you own!! Like what you did with the rotors! Keep the pictures coming!! Dan


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jason
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Re:68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #7 on: March 20, 2005, 07:07:37 pm »

A while ago a couple of you asked about taking a picture of the exsaust hangers. Took a picture tonight.

Jason


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jason
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Re:68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #8 on: March 20, 2005, 07:09:05 pm »

Picture of the car tonight!

Jason


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jason
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Re:68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #9 on: April 18, 2005, 05:31:48 pm »

Hello everyone its been almost about a month since my last posting the car is now rolling again. I painted and under coated the bottom side of the car looks great. I installed new leaf springs rear shackles and bushings. Just connected the subframe to the car tonight. I couldn't wait until tomorrow so I took a picture just before dark here it is.


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COPO9737
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Re:68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #10 on: April 18, 2005, 05:58:46 pm »

Lookin good Jason! Can't wait to see it completed!! Wink


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MOTIONHARRELLYENKO
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Re:68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #11 on: April 18, 2005, 06:13:07 pm »

Jason,Love the pictures of your 68 Nova SS 396 car,looks great!! Grin

Dan


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Re:68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #12 on: April 20, 2005, 02:11:09 pm »

Hey Jason you are doing a fine job on the car. We always like seeing work in progress. keep up the work but just make sure you take lots of pictures to share with us.

Scott


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jason
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Re:68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #13 on: April 22, 2005, 04:19:43 pm »

I just got back from spring carisle. My father has been selling at this swap meet since 1974. When you hear him say its not like it used to be. You have to believe him. I seen so many open spaces walking around. Their was so many cars for sale on the infield I couldn't believe it, you never seen this 15 years ago. On wendsday I could of counted the people in each row and the weather was nice around 83. Thursday's weather was nice still not a thursday crowd. Today(friday) it started to rain we just packed up and left by 10.00 am. This event just gets harder and harder to go to each year spots are 95.00 now. I found about 5 venders with nova parts most of it was junk. I ended up getting my break lines, fuel lines and power brake booster from the right stuff. So it wasn't a wasted trip in my eyes. My father already said he Isn't going to fall carisle. As everyone knows the internet has destroyed these events. E-bay is the best place to buy parts! As for the cars for sale they were their but the buyer's were most likely not.

Jason


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Re:68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #14 on: April 23, 2005, 11:50:42 am »

Jason,the car looks great. What color are you going to paint. Ed


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jason
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Re:68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #15 on: April 23, 2005, 01:21:00 pm »

The car is going to be sequia green with black interior. I am not to fond of the original ash gold interior. I don't think the green and gold go good. I am still up in the air with the black vinyl roof.

Jason


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Re:68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #16 on: April 23, 2005, 04:38:29 pm »

Jason,The Seqouia Green paint with the Black Vinyl roof would look real nice.The ash gold interior will probably change your opinon once done.You'll probably like it since you don't see many 68 Novas ,especially SS 396 ones. Cheesy

Personally I like the ash gold interior Cool

Dan


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Re:68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #17 on: April 23, 2005, 04:57:13 pm »

I'm with Dan on the vinyl top I think it will look great. The ash gold looks great when its not faded. Is this car going to look day II or stock. Ed


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jason
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Re:68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #18 on: April 23, 2005, 05:21:08 pm »

Ed what do you mean by day II or stock! I have already painted the dash black. I am trying to keep it as close to stock as possible. Do you think this will hurt the value of the car having black interior.

Jason


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Re:68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #19 on: April 23, 2005, 05:31:09 pm »

When I said day II I mean vintage speed parts. I don't think it will hurt it but it won't match the trim tag,and I think a 68 L78 Nova is more rare with gold interior them with black if gold is the stock color. Just my 2 cents. Ed Wink


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jason
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Re:68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #20 on: April 23, 2005, 05:35:35 pm »

I am going with headers a dual plan edelbrock performer intake and a holley 750cfm carb with mechanical secondarys to make that 4sp pull hard.

Jason


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Re:68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #21 on: April 23, 2005, 05:37:01 pm »

I will have to think about the ash gold interior thanks for you input.

Jason


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WILMASBOYL78
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Re:68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #22 on: April 24, 2005, 08:55:41 pm »

Jason, I share your opinion on the Spring Carlisle event, it is really going down hill. It is more like a flea market/county fair than a collector car swap meet. I am tired of looking at vendors selling rusty old antiques, animal statues and lawn furniture. The internet has definately had an impact on these kinds of events. On a different note: I am also restoring a 68 L78 Nova, Sequoia Green with Ash Gold interior. Given the rarity of these cars, originality will only add to their value. Day 2 speed parts can be taken on and off, but trim tag colors are a lot more work. Good luck with your project.

Tom Williams


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MOTIONHARRELLYENKO
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Re:68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #23 on: April 25, 2005, 06:34:40 am »

Jason,I kept my Teal Blue 68 Nova SS L78 4spd Calif car original when it came to body and interior,but went with a 427 because I just love HP!! Its your car,so do what you want! Dan Grin


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jason
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Re: 68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #24 on: April 30, 2005, 07:18:12 pm »

I got my brake lines and booster mounted! Still waiting for my clips to mount the fuel line.
The brake lines from the Right Sruff fit perfect. They are well worth the money.

Jason


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Re: 68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #25 on: April 30, 2005, 07:28:33 pm »

I tried to take a picture of the bottom of the car but it was hard because I don't have a lift but I figured I would post it. My car had under coating on the floor boards and trunk area and it had black paint under it. It looks like the hole car was painted black not Primer red. I read some were they came through the assembly line a couple of ways.

Jason


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jason
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Re: 68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #26 on: May 24, 2005, 04:49:07 pm »

Hi everyone I need help with something. Did the 68 novas have the bar that goes from the front lower fender to the radiator support. This makes the fender more ridged. I mounted my fenders with the inners and it is real strong. They were not on the car when I took everything apart. I know my 70 has them I wasn't sure if they were used on the 68 nova's. I should have a picture of the whole car back together in primer soon. I am test fitting all my parts to get those nice body lines.

Jason


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Allen_396
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Re: 68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #27 on: May 24, 2005, 06:23:32 pm »

Yes, they do have those fender braces.


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Allen
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jason
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Re: 68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #28 on: June 07, 2005, 05:05:29 pm »

Hi everyone,
I just got back from the auto body supply store tonight. I had them mix up a quart of sequoia green base coat so I could paint the inner part of the fenders before I bolt them back on the car. I love the color it is almost a charcoal metallic with a green tint. It is going to go great with the black vinyl roof. I had ordered two cans of 68 Ivy gold interior paint from classic industries. So I put them together on some junk sheet metal and they look great together. I want to thank everyone for there opinion on the colors I'm glad I considered it. I can't wait until its in color!


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Re: 68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #29 on: June 07, 2005, 06:33:45 pm »

Neat color Jason! Can't wait to see some pics with paint Thumbs Up


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jason
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Re: 68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #30 on: June 19, 2005, 05:48:29 am »

HI,
I need some help with my vinyl top trim pieces that mount on the quarters. I will load 3 pictures. Should they be down alittle or up into the quarter window. I would think up into quarter window, because when its down you can see a gap.( you can see this in one picture.) I already have one hole to fill, I was mad when I placed this hole wrong. That is why I am posting these pictures. If any one can post a picture that would help too.


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jason
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Re: 68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #31 on: June 19, 2005, 05:50:35 am »

This is the gap if it is lowered and the hole I screwed up.


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jason
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Re: 68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #32 on: June 19, 2005, 05:52:54 am »

I painted my steering column in the correct Ivy gold Looks real good!


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Re: 68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #33 on: June 19, 2005, 05:19:39 pm »

pictures speak louder than words so here goes.

this is one of my 71 parts cars[img][/img]

frontview1.jpg (39.22 KB, 640x480 - viewed 1452 times.) rearview1.jpg (38.42 KB, 640x480 - viewed 1443 times.)
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Re: 68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #34 on: June 19, 2005, 05:21:59 pm »

a couple more pics the trim was'nt tightly in place so i pulled it back a bit then held it in place where it would be when locked onto the clip properly. you can see some of the white vinyl fabric still sitting under the trim. this was an all original 71 2 dr. when i bought it back in the mid 80's hope these pics help you out.

the trim was just touching the rear window trim it's a little hard to see in the pics i'm just glad it was still light enough out to go take them quick.

Jason, if you end up with any of that paint (gold) left over.....don''t throw it out....i'll buy it from you. my daughters 4 dr 70 nova has that color interior and i might need some of that color myself Wink

the clip.jpg (38.94 KB, 640x480 - viewed 1434 times.) holding in place.jpg (39.66 KB, 640x480 - viewed 1458 times.)
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Re: 68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #35 on: June 19, 2005, 05:25:04 pm »

more pics

sideview1.jpg (39.35 KB, 640x480 - viewed 1415 times.) full side view.jpg (39.04 KB, 640x480 - viewed 1404 times.)
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jason
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Re: 68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #36 on: June 20, 2005, 12:58:53 pm »

Hi paul,
Thanks for responding those pictures will help. I thought it went up tight against the drip rail on the roof but I wasn't sure I never took a picture when I removed them. I haven't had much time to take a run out to your place for those parts, my sons last baseball game was this past Saturday, so I will have alittle bit more time. I also need a pair of hood hinges mine are just worn out.( do you have a pair) I am leaving for myrtle beach on Friday I'll be gone week. I would like to get together when I get back. Those Vinyl trim pieces are a one piece design they must of been replaced at one time, I thought they were only used on early 68 models they are really rare, I could be wrong!

Jason


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Re: 68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #37 on: June 20, 2005, 01:17:40 pm »

Paul,
Is that one-piece trim original to a '71?

Allen


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Allen
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Re: 68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #38 on: June 20, 2005, 07:10:45 pm »

Allen, to the best of my knowledge that's the original trim that was on that 71 from the factory. It was certainly the original vinyl when i bought the car Wink

Jason, just let me know when you think you can come out. my work situation has changed, so i can be available on other days. I make my own work schedule now. Grin

( sometimes i think my ex-boss's schedule was easier Roll Eyes

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jason
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Re: 68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #39 on: July 16, 2005, 09:07:05 am »

Hi everyone,
Things have been going slow it has been so humid you can't do a thing. I did get my dash painted (Ivy gold) and it looks real good. Installed the steering column and wiring harness the other night. I am still planning on having it in paint by fall. The motor is at the machine shop, I made the mistake of telling him I was in no rush. I hope I hear from him soon.
I will keep you updated!


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jason
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Re: 68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #40 on: July 24, 2005, 01:59:59 pm »

Just painted the inner fenders so I can bolt them up to the car. This is sequoia green base coat clear coat. When you look straight on it looks charcoal in color and when you look at it from an angle it has a green tint man it looks good!


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Re: 68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #41 on: July 24, 2005, 03:39:05 pm »

LOOKING GOOOOD Wink


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Re: 68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #42 on: July 24, 2005, 06:10:30 pm »

Jason,Sweeeeeeet,freaking awesome!!!!! Grin

Dan


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Re: 68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #43 on: August 17, 2005, 01:12:28 pm »

Its getting real close to paint. I just finished putting the front end together. I should of kept track of the hours I have in this body. I still have to block sand the doors and fenders, I primed them on monday. I hope to install the vynal roof next weekend.


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Re: 68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #44 on: August 17, 2005, 01:44:52 pm »

Keep those pics coming Clap


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jason
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Re: 68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #45 on: August 20, 2005, 08:55:22 am »

Ok guys I was over at steve's site and one of the topics was build sheets on a 69 nova. They said it was located on the back upper seat. I never checked for mine guess what I found it what I think is a build sheet or ticket. How do I read it.


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Re: 68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #46 on: August 20, 2005, 08:57:50 am »

Jason take a pic and post it here.Can't wait to see the paint.


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Re: 68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #47 on: August 20, 2005, 09:05:47 am »

What do you mean paint? Its hard to take a picture of the build sheet so here it goes.

TOP OF PAPER: SEO=004 MO=05 DAY=31 STYLE 11427 PLT=WRN BODY= 079392
TRM=745 LWR=V TOP=2

1ST CARD BOX1= EMPTY BOX2=X BOX3=A01 BOX4=A51 BOX5=CO8 BOX6=D55 BOX7=ZJ1 BOX16=224 BOX17= 266

2ND CARD BOX1=11 BOX2=427 BOX4=0 BOX5=795 BOX6=91

i HOPE SOMEONE CAN HELP AND THIS MAKES SENSE!


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Re: 68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #48 on: August 20, 2005, 09:33:08 am »

the paint on the car


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Re: 68 L78 Restoration
« Reply #49 on: August 23, 2005, 06:30:45 pm »

Ok guys some new updates on my 68’s history. I took Dan’s advice and called the guy I bought the car from in 2003. He said he owned it for 5 years which puts us at 1998. He bought it from a guy named Dave that owned it for 18-20 years which puts us around 1979-1980. Dave said the original 12 bolt was gone. It had a 10 bolt roller and the transmission was missing. The car had a 327 in it. The car was still silver with the black stripes. He bought it from a guy named Stephen he has passed away. Stephen bought the car from a guy named John some time around 1979-1980 he couldn’t remember. John said it did have the original 12 bolt in it with 373 gears. There was no motor in the car but it did have the original transmission. He thinks it was a fine spline Muncie (m22). He was 15 when he bought the car and put the 327 in it. The original motor was blown up. He did all the body work and painted it silver. The story ends here John couldn’t remember the women’s name but she was going threw a divorce and they needed the money. He bought the car out of Pleasant Valley NY. John told me that Stephen took the hole car apart when he bought it, and did nothing with it just parted it out. John did say that it did have the foil badges on the fenders (SS 396) and the supper sport emblem on the bottom part of fender. All the guys I talked to wish they still owned the car and are glad it is being restored. I told them about the web sight so they can see the car they used to own. When it is done I want to try to get them together so they can see the car. Not sure of and Chevy dealer ship’s that sold high performance cars in this area.


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