'67 Chevelle Concours wagon, bring it back to life

[67since67]

Not a Musclecar by any means, but some here have shown interest, and being a '67 Chevelle I'm all in!

I bought this wagon from the original owner's son in 1990 and drove it home from Palmdale CA, added a quart of oil and had a blown tire in Montrose CO.
Having spent its life in a rural high desert environment it was loaded with sand everywhere and had a tough as nails film of dirty scum. That film acted to protect some nice finishes once removed. What it doesn't have is any rust, anywhere, beyond minor surface rust. As you can see the paint is chalked out and the woodgrain is toast.

A top trim level Concours wagon, the first year woodgrain was applied to a Chevelle, options are L30 327/275 with Powerglide and CA smog. PS, PB, A/C, power tailgate window, AM/FM radio and front bumper guards. What it doesn't have, and seems odd for top trim level, is roof rack and no option dog dish caps.

I will post more on bringing this wagon back to life and making it the best it can be. - Bill W

[67since67]

A total of 6,299 Concours wagons were built, including six cylinder, 283, L30 327, and extremely rare L79 327.

I had not done anything with it since 1990, always bypassed by other Chevelle projects, but it's time! The plan is, thorough cleaning and degreasing, making it roadworthy and dealing with some eyesores while keeping any painting to a bare minimum.

[RPOLS3]

Awesome - thanks for sharing, looking forward to following along.

[69M22Z]

That is really cool.

[cook_dw]

I look forward to learning some of your tips and tricks.

[L78_Nova]

Ha, Pretty Close to Milner's Deuce plate... THX 138
Love the Wagon !!

Gary

[67since67]

This advertising pic shows a Concours more typically equipped with full wheel covers, a roof rack, and rear air deflector. I am happy that mine has none of them!

[WILMASBOYL78]

Very cool car :cool2: I really enjoy seeing these types of vehicles...reminds me of growing up, family trips and more.

Looking forward to following along...keep the clean up simple. Make it safe to drive and enjoy.

Good luck....wilma

[67since67]

I have history with Chevelle wagons, beginning with an AHRA Super Stock, record holding and championship winning '66 300 Deluxe in the '70s. My racecar narrowly missed being a COPO '69 Camaro, but that's another story.

Next was the first '67 Concours, loaded with about all available options including shoulder belts and speed warning, but terminally rusty. It was my DD for four years, parted it out in '82.

Then a '72 Concours, my DD for about four years in the mid '80s.

The first two were purchased for $400 each, the '72 for $800.

[67since67]

I drove the blue Concours to the Nomad Convention in Gatlinburg TN in 1979 (??) and hauled parts to Bloomington when I used to set up there, when Bloomington was still at the fairgrounds. It got interest even then.

[scuncio]

Great car! My '70 SS396 Chevelle came out of Pearblossom, CA. I'm still finding sand/dust in the frame rails every time I drive it.

[RobR]

Love your wheel choice on all the wagons Bill. The roof stripes on the drag wagon are awesome. What engine combo did you run?

[67since67]

I look forward to learning some of your tips and tricks.

Compared to you Darryl, also James G, Tim S and Tim G and other true survivor preservation experts here I'm not sure there's anything to be learned from me!
But thank you for the confidence. And as Wilma suggested, the plan has been to keep it simple, and make the best of what it is while preserving as much as possible. - Bill W

[67since67]

Great car! My '70 SS396 Chevelle came out of Pearblossom, CA. I'm still finding sand/dust in the frame rails every time I drive it.

Oh Boy for sure!! As I think I've cleaned everything thoroughly I find more of it. Better than finding rust though!!

[67since67]

Love your wheel choice on all the wagons Bill. The roof stripes on the drag wagon are awesome. What engine combo did you run?

The drag car was a 331 (327 .030.), 010 block with spacer bearings to use small journal crank, BRC pistons with .080 top ring, angle plug heads with legally allowed port matching and bowl clean up, 14-1 compression. Crane solid roller, .720 lift, don't remember duration specs. TH 400 with 8" convertor, 5.38 rear. 1/4 through the lights, 7,800 rpm.
7.20 1/8th mile, 11.30 1/4.
I originally planned on going 396 but the 327 worked so well I stayed with it.
If I had raced another season I'd have had to go Powerglide, they were just coming into favor at that time(1976).

The roof stripes were inspired by a nationally known '57 2 door wagon stocker at the time, Scott Shafferoff maybe??

[cook_dw]

Compared to you Darryl, also James G, Tim S and Tim G and other true survivor preservation experts here I'm not sure there's anything to be learned from me!
But thank you for the confidence. And as Wilma suggested, the plan has been to keep it simple, and make the best of what it is while preserving as much as possible. - Bill W


You shouldn't include me into that elite group of folks. I'm just a dumb ole TN redneck.

[nova67]

Bill.....very neat wagon love that all the smog is intact. Lots of L 30 Ca. cars

[67since67]

This Concours wagon is original metal in excellent condition except for the pass side fender, which is a used OEM from another car, painted to a fairly good match but no trim.

First priority was to get it up on stands and clean the underside. I didn't spend a huge amount of time under here, mostly just a good pressure wash. Fremont was very generous with overspray on the floors! Note the welded muffler on the original factory dual exhaust system still in place.

Next came dropping out the front suspension, here's where the cleaning became more difficult. The OO was religious about lubrication, the original ball joints and steering linkage are in great shape, but the build up of grease mixed with dirt was hard as concrete and had to be literally chiseled off followed by hot tanking control arms and steering linkage at the machine shop. Very nice original finishes were exposed from under that grime!

Upper-inner bushings were replaced, wheel cylinders rebuilt, and horseshoe spacers under the front springs to level ride hight up a bit. Multiple seals were replaced in the Powerglide to dry up leaks.

I opted for a 1 1/8" front sway bar and a GM rear bar in the interest of controlling body roll.

Up next, interior.

[olredalert]

----What a cool 67! I respect your decision to keep this long roof original, but it would be a knockout with paint and new vinyl wood.....Bill S

[WILMASBOYL78]

I really like this project...it's a car and a nice old car at that!!

Clean it up...make it safe and roadworthy...don't sweat the cosmetics.

Hope we see more projects like this on the site...it kind of balances out all the high end stuff.

-wilma

[67since67]

but it would be a knockout with paint and new vinyl wood.....Bill S

Stick around Bill, I think you will like what's coming....

[67since67]

Neglected to mention, while the suspension was all apart and again after it was back on the ground, I did multiple sessions of degreaser, scrubbing, pressure washing to remove layers of grease and oil build up on the engine and trans. Now I can see orange paint!!

[Jonesy]

Hopefully you can find that front passenger side trim for the wood and deck this thing out in wood again.

Nice base to work with here

[WILMASBOYL78]

Neglected to mention, while the suspension was all apart and again after it was back on the ground, I did multiple sessions of degreaser, scrubbing, pressure washing to remove layers of grease and oil build up on the engine and trans. Now I can see orange paint!!

:biggthumpup::biggthumpup::biggthumpup:

[67since67]

Interior.
Out comes the steering column and drop the dash. Thick layers of dust under here! Blow it out, then cleaning with Simple Green and lots of towels, blow out the heat and a/c ducts etc. Replace the toasted dash pad with a proper colored dark red one from my stash. Clock is sent out for repair, install a dash speaker and the AM/FM works!!:biggthumpup:

Lube heater control cables and replace broken levers. Aluminum Brightener bath for ash tray, other stuff that escapes my memory right now.

Put it all back, everything works, whoo hoo!!
Chrome polish on column levers chrome, and using red interior paint left over from my maroon SS convert, fix steering wheel cracks, paint and clear.

An unusual feature, this car is a 10B Fremont and has the very early '67 production steering column under dash cover. Later cars don't have this cover or the dash panel provision to mount it. I have a 10C Leeds car that doesn't have it.

[WILMASBOYL78]

:biggthumpup::worship::worship::worship:

[67ssmn]

WOW, that dash and even carpet look amazing

[olredalert]

----Being a stone long roof slappy I am loving every bit of this. I have never in the last 50 years been without a wagon. They are necessary and yet so endearing! Looking forward to your future endeavors as I can't stop thinking about how nice the convert is!!!....Bill S

[67since67]

Thanks to all who are following along and enjoying this thread!!

More interior.

With the dash all done it's time for more cleaning. I did mention cleaning didn't I??? Clean, clean clean....

With Both seats out the carpet was pulled for a professional cleaning, it turned out fairly well in spite of some wear under the driver's feet. The front seat needed new covers, since Legendary doesn't offer covers for a wagon/4 door, (no split back) my upholstery guy ordered three yards of red vinyl and built covers incorporating the original heat pleated back side and matching the pattern of the original. Two arm rest pads were also covered with this vinyl.

The rear cushions are in nice shape, I cleaned them (and the entire interior) with Adam's Products Interior Detailer (Thanks Dan and Dave!).

Surprisingly, Jani offered to put the seat belts in a mesh laundry bag and run them through the washer, they came out pretty nice. Note that they are optional Deluxe belts.

[67since67]

Moving to the rear....

Mostly uneventful back here. The spare tire well cleaned up well (when's the last time you've seen a well with no rust??). The cargo mat, while intact, is an eyesore, so I have a rubber mat that will cover that area. The jack being in a protected environment has survived very well, with just a light cleaning. The spare wheel also cleaned up nice, note the body color overspray through the slots. The tire of course is a repro.

Now, it's time to raise the hood.....

[MosportGreen66]

This a great thread Bill. Congrats on another wonderful Chevelle project... told you this would win the forum over ;)

[67since67]

Never doubted you Dan, and thank you!

Jumping to real time without giving too much away it was a good day today!

The rear power window operated but was a bit sluggish. Since it had to be removed to access tailgate trim fasteners it's time to freshen up. The regulator it self required only a light cleaning and lube, but the motor was the crustiest mess I've encountered on the car. Fortunately it was clean on the inside.

I disassembled, blasted and painted the motor housing. After polishing the armature and brushes, lubed, reassembled and adjusted the motor and gear box assy. Reinstalled and the window now buzzes up and down like new. Lubed latches etc while there also.

[67since67]

To round out the good day my new neighbor and the local A/C wizard came by to bring the A/C to life. Thirty years ago the A/C got me home from CA with two cans of R-12, but hadn't ran since.

Duane brought along a new Delco dryer (he knows me well!) with a Made In China sticker on it :rolleyes2: I had set up with two 25' flex hoses to pipe exhaust outside (7 degrees) while running in the shop (70 degrees).

My cousin gave me a full R-12 canister a few years ago because it was obsolete for his farm equipment.

After evacuation held steady, time for a charge. Soo, I learned that the A/C control switch isn't sending power to the A/C clutch, worry about that later, jumper the clutch and away we go! The POA valve was a little stubborn but with a few light taps and a little patience with oil circulation, it was blowing 40 degrees a standstill idle.

A good day indeed!!

[olredalert]

----Bill,,,Gave me a big chuckle when I saw that window motor. Looks good now. Congrats on the AC!.....Bill S

[MosportGreen66]

Awesome! And Love those real paint valve covers peaking through too

[67since67]

----Bill,,,Gave me a big chuckle when I saw that window motor. Looks good now. Congrats on the AC!.....Bill S

Thanks Bill! The rest of the car screams high desert 15% humidity, so why did that motor look like it went down on the Titanic?? :dunno:

[67since67]

Awesome! And Love those real paint valve covers peaking through too

Thanks Dan, lots of nice finishes were hidden under a half Century of grease and grime!

[L78_Nova]

Bill, the early AC systems pull the full clutch load across the switch. Common for the switch to arc and foul up. Best to install a relay to take the load of the switch.. I did this on my 67 Chevelle and 68 Acadian and it fixed my issue. Learned this troubleshooting on my 68 Acadian... installed an NOS switch and only got about a dozen uses before it fouled out. Been fine since adding the relay.

NICE to have R12 !!

Awesome job on the wagon!!

[WILMASBOYL78]

This thread just keeps getting better...really enjoying the process.

Keep it coming :cool2:

-wilma

[luzl78]

I love that it’s not getting painted and you’re keeping the patina.

[67since67]

A couple items worth noting. Found the key tag in between seat cushions, unfortunately it doesn't match car. Also an interior broadcast sheet turned up.

Not done with degreasing the engine, but getting started on firewall. First scrubbed with full strength Purple Power, then heavy compound followed by light compound and then wax. A lot of work!!

About this time I discovered NAPA Aluminum Brightener. What used to be 3-4 hours now became less than an hour! It cuts right through that desert hard pan grime. With progress moving along more quickly I worked from the firewall to the inner fenders and to the core support, removing components for thorough cleaning. Note the peeling paint on the RF fender inner jamb, more on that later.

[Crush]

Here are a couple of products I used to clean my engine compartment. Thought it may help.

[67since67]

At this point I've not yet pulled the fenders, just concentration on engine and under hood sheet metal components. An example is before and after of the original voltage regulator. All the smog system was removed and given the same treatment along with alternator, pulleys and all brackets and attending hardware. The Brightener works great on wiring harness also!

I really don't want to know how many hours I've spent cleaning!!

[67since67]

Here are a couple of products I used to clean my engine compartment. Thought it may help.

Thank you! Always ready to try something new. The Purple Power wouldn't touch this grime, but the product on the left looks interesting. - Bill W

[Crush]

I found you need to be care ful with the scotch pads as they can scratch. I have even used very fine steel wool. The citrus stuff and simple green works when you let it soak. In the end it will look much better!

[67since67]

I found you need to be care ful with the scotch pads as they can scratch.

Agreed!!
No scotchbrite or other abrasives used used here. Just Alum Brightener applied with microfiber cloths followed by wax. Also some items into the Evapo-Rust.

[67since67]

A few numbers:

The trim tag indicates a Fisher body date of 10B at the Fremont CA plant, the 95th Concours body for Fremont production.

The block casting number is blocked by the Powerglide kick down bracket but with a mirror I was able to verify 3892657, the correct block for all '67 327 until late '67 production.
Block casting date is H306, August 30 '66).
Stamp V0915EC, Flint September 15, EC = L30 327 A/T AIR.
61 Amp alternator 6J12, September 12 '66
0711 brake booster, power drum brake, Julian date 220
Barely visible is wiper motor yellow ink Julian date 206
Large rad tag is gone but small tag CF
Note chalk mark on RH cyl head

[67since67]

My Intension is to keep painting to bare minimum. Exception, the water pump. It had a parts store pump with a loose bearing. I ordered up a properly dated 608 pump from Bill Mock, it came bare cast, so I rattle-canned a fog of orange, thin enough to not appear fresh.

The timing cover has obviously been removed, so thinking the chain and nylon gear were replaced at some point.

[olredalert]

----Bill,,,Is that master cylinder the original? I'm thinking that it doesn't resemble what I'm used to seeing as the car has power drum brakes, not disc brakes.....Bill S

[67since67]

----Bill,,,Is that master cylinder the original? I'm thinking that it doesn't resemble what I'm used to seeing as the car has power drum brakes, not disc brakes.....Bill S

You Sir, are correct! That eyesore parts store POS is still there because I haven't been able to locate a proper power drum Master.

By my October '67 dated parts book '67 drum brake Chevelle and Camaro, with or without power, use the same BS master, or can be stamped CT??

'67 Chevelle power drum masters use a different casting with bleeders, but still stamped BS, like the attached image.
My friendly NAPA guy ordered in four remans, and one is a casting mostly similar to original. My buddy Merl set it up in his mill and duplicated the machined pads followed by installation of dummy bleeders. I need to go upstairs and find a suitable cap and correct early, straight bail.

Still looking for a real, correct master though.

[RPOLS3]

Loving this thread Bill - keep em' coming.

[olredalert]

----Adapt and overcome,,,LOL! Very good duplicate.....Bill S

[67since67]

Just for you Bill :biggthumpup:

Masked off the machined areas on the clone master, light spray of semi gloss black, bench bled and install. Solid brake pedal, all good. A bit of wiping with DOT 3 on a towel to thin down paint and replicate years of spilled fluid. Mission accomplished, the lid is even starting to look OK, The later bail on an early car needs to be addressed though.

[67since67]

At the rear, as rough as it is, I couldn't bear to scrap the original mat. Left it in place and covered it with this nice piece from R.E.M.

[67since67]

Moving forward...Pulling the front clip exposed more mess. With cleaning coming to a point of diminishing returns I am happy to have exposed some decent engine paint along with the other under hood finishes.

[67since67]

The last time this Chevelle ran was six years ago when I limped it the couple miles here from the old house. Time to get it purring again!!

The rad was cleaned and checked and reinstalled with fresh hoses. Along with the water pump the smog system was freshed, I blocked the smog tubes, removed the pump vanes and replaced the bearings.
The alternator received new bearings and brushes.
The carb was cleaned and kitted as well.
Pulled the distributor, cleaned and lubed, free up mech advance, new vac can and install a one wire module kit.

Now the 'ol L30 lights up and runs great! Starts with a touch of the key.

[scuncio]

Boy, is that a clean car!

[60sStuff]

Bill,

What can I say, besides I’m late to this long top party.
There is so much to cover on this Yenko site that I completely missed your thread on this Awesome ‘67 wagon.

Boy I love Red interiors on 60’s cars.
I also have a stash of excellent Survivor quality GTO items from 40+ years that comes in handy, such as your spare dash that this wagon needed.

I seem to like the same types of cars that you like (patina here, cracking over there and a few rub through in spots), which is typically on a Survivor car. You can’t duplicate that.

Do I see 97K plus on the odometer?

Fremont built cars (64-67+) had the TT / Data Plate crudely masked off which yours shows. I’ve seen a few BF cars that were painted black but the majority were taped off.
You did good on the orange fogged water pump and brake fluid drippings.
Inner fender skirts look awesome after cleaning.

Fremont bumper jack bases are a rectangular black painted version, whereas the back east (Pontiac cars) plants typically used a square blue painted base.

There are so many products available for cleaning and detailing our Survivor cars, but a couple I’ve used since the 70’s is “never dull” and “bronze wool”.

Love the license plate frames with the black & yellows.

The full tint glass all windows, which is recommended with AC cars looks nice with the white body.
This summer, turn on that air condition in that beautiful red interior and head out.

I’ll be following this thread now.

Chris.

[69M22Z]

The last time this Chevelle ran was six years ago when I limped it the couple miles here from the old house. Time to get it purring again!!

The rad was cleaned and checked and reinstalled with fresh hoses. Along with the water pump the smog system was freshed, I blocked the smog tubes, removed the pump vanes and replaced the bearings.
The alternator received new bearings and brushes.
The carb was cleaned and kitted as well.
Pulled the distributor, cleaned and lubed, free up mech advance, new vac can and install a one wire module kit.

Now the 'ol L30 lights up and runs great! Starts with a touch of the key.

Beautiful

[olredalert]

----I've never seen that center mount smog pump set-up. Hate to try to find formed hoses for that, Bill! The clean up is going pretty smoothly. Looks great....Bill S

[67since67]

Hopefully you can find that front passenger side trim for the wood and deck this thing out in wood again.

Nice base to work with here

Got that covered, I have trim from two other cars stashed upstairs. :beers:

[67since67]

Bill,

What can I say, besides I’m late to this long top party.
There is so much to cover on this Yenko site that I completely missed your thread on this Awesome ‘67 wagon.

Boy I love Red interiors on 60’s cars.
I also have a stash of excellent Survivor quality GTO items from 40+ years that comes in handy, such as your spare dash that this wagon needed.

I seem to like the same types of cars that you like (patina here, cracking over there and a few rub through in spots), which is typically on a Survivor car. You can’t duplicate that.

Do I see 97K plus on the odometer?

Fremont built cars (64-67+) had the TT / Data Plate crudely masked off which yours shows. I’ve seen a few BF cars that were painted black but the majority were taped off.
You did good on the orange fogged water pump and brake fluid drippings.
Inner fender skirts look awesome after cleaning.

Fremont bumper jack bases are a rectangular black painted version, whereas the back east (Pontiac cars) plants typically used a square blue painted base.

There are so many products available for cleaning and detailing our Survivor cars, but a couple I’ve used since the 70’s is “never dull” and “bronze wool”.

Love the license plate frames with the black & yellows.

The full tint glass all windows, which is recommended with AC cars looks nice with the white body.
This summer, turn on that air condition in that beautiful red interior and head out.

I’ll be following this thread now.

Chris.

Better late than never Chris!

I am also a big fan of 60's red interiors especially in white cars.

Odometer shows 07722.0, so rolled over. The L30 runs amazingly well, smooth and quiet, no smoke, added one quart to drive from CA. I see nothing to indicate the heads have ever been off (French locks are still in place!) but I'm sure the timing chain has been replaced.

As you noted, masking of the TT was strictly a Fremont thing on for a '67 Chevelle.

Fremont jacks, have you observed any predominance of either the tube or the tee style shafts?

Follow along as I take this project over the hump. :beers:

[67since67]

Time to wipe the ugly off this ride!

Bumpers, and front sheet metal removed. CAREFULLY removed all that 60 plus feet of body side moldings, tailgate trim and emblems. I do not have a spare of the tailgate "Concours" emblem, and the attaching barrel clips did not want to let go! I spent an hour finessing it off, thinking it would surely break!

I removed the door panels, necessary to remove the door handles and also to salvage the unique side molding clips. I tried to source all new clips but the pictured rectangular plastic clips were not to be found.
With the door panels off I cleaned and lubed window regulators and door latches etc.

As previously mentioned, the RF fender had been replaced with a used and painted white. Strangely, this fender must have came from a cheapo 300 series as it had no holes other than for antenna, not even an engine call-out.
Using trim from my stash and measurements from the other fender the appropriate hole were drilled.
Also, the fender paint had some peeling on the inner under hood jamb, so that was prepped and painted.

[67since67]

I've had this MBX rubber wheel vinyl removal tool for many years, but it did not work well here. What remained of the original vinyl was mostly dried up adhesive and the bottom layer of the vinyl film.
After trying several removers, chemicals etc, I resorted to oven cleaner and a single edge razor blade on a handle. This actually worked pretty well but still a tedious task!
First application removed most of it, followed by another to remove leftovers. Then a wipe down with denatured alcohol.

[67since67]

The area behind the gas door is painted brown to prevent a body color outline breaking up the woodgrain.

[67since67]

With wagon all naked and embarrassed it's time to bring life back the the chalked out paint.

First a color sand with 1,000 grit, then 1,500, 2,500, 3,000, and finally 5,000.

Next Presta 2step, applied with a buffer, followed by Collinite 845 applied by hand,
The woodgrain areas were sanded with 220.

Now it's ready for woodgrain!!

[RPOLS3]

Wow - what a transformation.

[olredalert]

----Wow, just Wow, Bill! I would never have imagined this. Very cool!.....Bill S

[60sStuff]

Geezzz Bill,

Where do you find the energy? Must be love of an old car.

I’m impressed :worship:

[TimG]

You’re amazing, Bill. Components that look hopeless turn out very nice with the proper cleaning. You’re just applying this theory to the entire car.
You must have a nice heated garage.

[67since67]

Geezzz Bill,

Where do you find the energy? Must be love of an old car.

I’m impressed :worship:

Thank you Chris, it's actually somewhere between passion and insanity! I recently read an article titled "Get Busy Living or Get Busy Dying", I'm definitely in the former, I've worked all my life, taking care of obligations, to be able to do this stuff full time.

[67since67]

You’re amazing, Bill. Components that look hopeless turn out very nice with the proper cleaning. You’re just applying this theory to the entire car.
You must have a nice heated garage.

You turn out some amazing cars your self Tim!!

Yes, I am amazed sometimes what nice finishes are hidding just under a layer of grime, just waiting to be found!

With in floor radiant heat and A/C keeps one motivated to work!! I always said I wanted a garage with attached house! DD garage, shop and utility rooms are almost equal to footprint of the house. Don't have to go outside when it's cold!!!
Cars and tow rig are in a separate building.

[67since67]

Vinyl application...3M Di-Noc Dark Walnut. Di-Noc is actually mentioned in The AIM. A 5 yard roll was just right. I have always preferred dry application of vinyl, and fortunately dry is what was specified.

I started with the fenders and added the trim before moving towards the rear. Pretty straight forward, applied an adhesion promoter on edges and a heat gun to wrap edges. The fenders needed to be off to wrap the rear edges of the fenders and forward edges of the front doors. Also the fender trim clips are retained with nuts on the back side.
To have enough vinyl to properly wrap the gas door and opening required using a separate piece and line up the grain to match pattern.

[WILMASBOYL78]

It just keeps getting better with each step of the process...definitely one of the best SYC 'follow along' threads I've seen.

Great work...

-wilma

[60sStuff]

This thread is so darn good, it warrants its own dedicated folder on my PC.

First wagon in my archives.

The way this ‘67 is progressing, with the finish line in site, it will stack up and belong with all your other spectacular Survivors.

Great job!

[carnut4life]

Wow, that looks amazing Bill, it's really gonna pop with the red interior! Now I want a wagon too.

[MosportGreen66]

Bill, this is awesome! Amazing work all around! Result is fantastic

[60sStuff]

I’m always searching old vintage ads for my cars and moved over to Chevrolet yesterday to see what I could find in relation to Bill W. wagon.

I was able to find a couple ads including this one.
Cool ad, except no killer Red interior.

Plus no tint glass - all windows, so possibly no AC on this car.

[olredalert]

----Chris, It's almost like the person ordering this wagon was looking at this pic, but liked red interiors. The Di-Noc is spectacular, Bill! What a great job.....Bill S

[Jonesy]

wOW, I am super impressed with your skills and how this Wagon is turning out. Really enjoying see this progress.:beers:

[69M22Z]

Vinyl application...3M Di-Noc Dark Walnut. Di-Noc is actually mentioned in The AIM. A 5 yard roll was just right. I have always preferred dry application of vinyl, and fortunately dry is what was specified.

I started with the fenders and added the trim before moving towards the rear. Pretty straight forward, applied an adhesion promoter on edges and a heat gun to wrap edges. The fenders needed to be off to wrap the rear edges of the fenders and forward edges of the front doors. Also the fender trim clips are retained with nuts on the back side.
To have enough vinyl to properly wrap the gas door and opening required using a separate piece and line up the grain to match pattern.

Wow. That's great.

[67since67]

...definitely one of the best SYC 'follow along' threads I've seen.



I am humbled that you would include my thread among the many great threads that have been here....Thank you!! - Bill W

[67since67]

I am super impressed with your skills and how this Wagon is turning out.

I'm not sure about skills, just a lot of work hah!! :beers:

[67since67]

I’m always searching old vintage ads for my cars and moved over to Chevrolet yesterday to see what I could find in relation to Bill W. wagon.

I was able to find a couple ads including this one.
Cool ad, except no killer Red interior.

Plus no tint glass - all windows, so possibly no AC on this car.

I have a pretty good collection of print ads, but don't believe I've seen this one. And as Bill said, like they ordered this car only red interior. (very happy they did!!)
Like I said previous, unusual for top trim level wagon with no roof rack and poverty caps.

[67since67]

Here is the RF fender with the vinyl laid down, but before trimming and wrapping the edges.

With the vinyl applied, ready for the "Bling"! 60 some feet of body side moldings, polished door handles and lock cylinders, so now the door panels etc. can be put back.

NOS wagon door edge guards are cheap on eBay, so the beat up originals were replaced. Rear w/o moldings are impossible to find, so the originals were cleaned and installed, they have a few minor dings.

[67since67]

Another feature unique to this car, these metal trim strips to finish off the vinyl inside the rear door jamb.

[67since67]

The quarter scrips were retained by a barrel clip style wire integral to the pin, I had not seen this before. One side survived but the other I used self threading nuts.

The rural desert road grime really layered on the rear, the tailgate script I thought was dull chrome. After scrubbing with Aluminum Brightener and a tooth brush, then chrome polish and a tooth brush I was surprised to see how they cleaned up!
Same treatment on all the rear trim and tail light housings. Virtually no pot metal pits to be found!
It's my experience that Steele Rubber Products has the best fitting seals for tail lights used here and on '67 El Camino's. NOS lenses were used to brighten things up.

About three hours of hard rubbing with chrome polish brought the bumper around to a shine much better than I expected. New, un-polished, stainless capped bumper bolts had just the right finish to match. The original license screw nuts and rubber bumpers are in great shape. This is the original bumper, still riveted to the center bracket. I understand that 1st Gen Camaro's the rivet head is on the face side, on Chevelles the head is on the back side.

The original CA tag and frame were cleaned and installed. The backup lamps were given an Evapo-Rust bath, cleaned, and the white paint replicated, finished up with NOS lenses.

This about wraps up the car from the cowl rearward. This is where I was at about two weeks ago, so real time is not far away. I started this project last summer but have had several diversions along the way, not the least of which has been helping push along a stunning restoration of a buddy's rust free CA '67 SS that I sold him more than 30 years ago.

[MosportGreen66]

Bill, stunning! Nothing against our muscle cars, but it is so refreshing to see something that I've never seen done to this level before. You saved this car. Period.

@Bob Ashton - I would love to see a display of Long Roof Wagons of all sorts and variations at MCACN including a center slot for Bill's Wagon.

And Bill - not to step on your creative vision for the wagon but I think it would look killer with a set of American Racing Mags or even a set of simulated mag wheels covers?

Dan

[scuncio]

Looks great. I have a Starksen frame if you need a match for the front plate.

[L78_Nova]

Fantastic work Bill !! Love the car !!

[olredalert]

----What a rust free, pit free Wagon you have saved, congrats! I had a decent 67 big block El Camino for a short period a couple of years ago and I can say that tail light housings in the condition of yours are just about impossible to find. This was on a sothern California car. Must have been close to the water as both housings were heavily pitted.....Bill S

[Charley Lillard]

Amazing work and patience. Thought I was looking at one of Grant's threads...

[chevyandpontiac]

I can't wait for more, love watching the saving of a wagon.

[60sStuff]

This one is for the wife.

[WILMASBOYL78]

The ad mentions 'power up to 325hp'...are they referring to low-horse 396 or the L79 327..??

-wilma

[carnut4life]

Bill, stunning! Nothing against our muscle cars, but it is so refreshing to see something that I've never seen done to this level before. You saved this car. Period.

@Bob Ashton - I would love to see a display of Long Roof Wagons of all sorts and variations at MCACN including a center slot for Bill's Wagon.

And Bill - not to step on your creative vision for the wagon but I think it would look killer with a set of American Racing Mags or even a set of simulated mag wheels covers?

Dan

I agree completely Dan.

I've got a pair of 15x7 Torque Thrust D's I'll donate to the project if you're interested Bill? Least I can do for all the hospitality you've showed me since we met.

[67since67]

but I think it would look killer with a set of American Racing Mags or even a set of simulated mag wheels covers?

Dan

I have both options available in house....

[67since67]

Looks great. I have a Starksen frame if you need a match for the front plate.

I'll pm you tomorrow Tony.

[67since67]

This one is for the wife.

I have that one framed on the wall. Thank you!

[67since67]

The ad mentions 'power up to 325hp'...are they referring to low-horse 396 or the L79 327..??

-wilma

Reference to the L79 327 rated at 325 HP, and available with C60 A/C. HD 3 speed, or 4 speed.
This would be ultra rare, I've seen a restoration article on one, Granada Gold and in CA I believe.

I loath clones, buut, if the original L30 were AWOL from the wagon, it would be cloned as L79 already.

[67since67]

I agree completely Dan.

I've got a pair of 15x7 Torque Thrust D's I'll donate to the project if you're interested Bill? Least I can do for all the hospitality you've showed me since we met.

Thank you for the offer Chad!!

[67since67]

Amazing work and patience. Thought I was looking at one of Grant's threads...

It's not patience Charlie, it OCD....

[WILMASBOYL78]

Reference to the L79 327 rated at 325 HP, and available with C60 A/C. HD 3 speed, or 4 speed.
This would be ultra rare, I've seen a restoration article on one, Granada Gold and in CA I believe.

I loath clones, buut, if the original L30 were AWOL from the wagon, it would be cloned as L79 already.

I figured the L79 was the engine they referenced...one of the great sleepers of all time. Your attention to detail on this wagon is great...everyone is really enjoying the thread. Keep up the good work :biggthumpup:

[67since67]

The ad mentions 'power up to 325hp'...are they referring to low-horse 396 or the L79 327..??

-wilma

Since the Concours model shares the "138" VIN with the SS396 models, seems it would have been feasible to offer the L35 396. With a TH400 and a 2.73 rear would have been a sweet cruiser. Especially since the 396's were offered in the El Camino's.

[olredalert]

----I kinda thought the same thing!....Bill S

[67since67]

Or... Imagine an L78 Concours!! :eek2::eek2:3gears.gif

Let's put a face on this thing!

There were three different grilles used on '67 Chevelle. The top one is Super Sport, note the blackout and open slots continuing to the ends.
The center one is unique to only Concours, Exact same as SS but with two pierced holes for the grille emblem.
The bottom one is for all the Chevelles, Malibu, 300 and El Camino.

[67since67]

It was necessary to knock down the grille assembly to properly clean the pieces.

There is a corner bracket on originals to bolt the valance to the fender. The NOS valance panels do not come with this bracket. So if replacing you need to remove and weld to the new panel. An often overlooked detail.

These pieces are held together with 3/16x1/4 aluminum semi-tubular truss head rivets. I have this rivet squeezer that makes this job a snap, it's been used on my cars on those of others, does a nice job.
Carriage head bolts can be used, but the bottom row of rivets are installed head down, so bolts would be a dead give away.

And... the assembly ready to bolt on. Shame on me, I neglected to get pix with this installed. Moving on to fenders.

[67since67]

This car had fairly nice fit and gaps to start with, other than the right side fender which had been replaced. The left fender fell into place. The right side proved to be a challenge and I pulled out several tricks to bring it in line, including a couple I learned from Terry Davis. After juggling shims here and there it turned out acceptably well.

A floor jack under the sway bar bracket will tighten the fender to A pillar panel gap to start with.

With the top tight the jack under the frame behind the wheel will tighten the fender to rocker gap.

Chevelles tend to pucker out at the fender bottom, a ratchet strap between the fender bottoms (the holes are already there) will pull the bottoms in line. At this point sock the bolts down tight, and install the rocker moldings. The moldings will give a backup support to keep things lined up.

[carnut4life]

Damn, that car is sooo cool Bill, I love it!!!

[olredalert]

----Bill,,,That car is awesome! Looking so good.....Bill S

[67since67]

What to do when your antenna base looks like this?

Plastic tubing from the box store plumbing Dept. This is too easy!

The original FM fixed length mast cleaned up nicely.

[67since67]

After a Evapo Rust bath followed by gun oil the hood hinges and latch showed off nice original phosphate .

There was a struggle with my OCD here. as the car came apart three of the latch bolts and the two tie bar to rad support bolts were washer style. Through out I've strived to use all original fasteners, but these are not correct, by the AIM, or accepted practice. I would have corrected, but then washer circles would have been visible, so, back the way Fremont did it.

[60sStuff]

Bill,

Speaking of antennas.

Since this ‘67 wagon came with the factory AM-FM radio, is there a noise suppression capacitor out by the blower motor?

All 65-67 Pontiac Tempest Series cars that were order with the AM-FM received this in-line unit.

Thanks, Chris

[67since67]

Installed a pair of less than perfect NOS front wheel opening moldings and cleaned and installed the remaining front trim.
I installed a matched set of Sylvania Halogen bulbs, because I had them, it's a driver, and my stash of original T3's is not bottomless.

Like the floor pans, Fremont was generous with overspray body color on the bottom of the hood!!

[67since67]

OK guys and gals, this brings me up to real time.

I've stated that this car had nice fit of the front sheetmetal, and that made the hood fit easy. The hood fell into place with no real challenge, and has gaps rivaling anything in my garage.

Please note that the grille, grille extensions, and headlight doors received the same blackout treatment as the SS396, unique to Concours. One of my peeves is this blackout not done correctly!

Front bumper.....

[67since67]

Bill,

Speaking of antennas.

Since this ‘67 wagon came with the factory AM-FM radio, is there a noise suppression capacitor out by the blower motor?

All 65-67 Pontiac Tempest Series cars that were order with the AM-FM received this in-line unit.

Thanks, Chris

Yes Chris, just took this pic. It's not in the same location as your info, after cleaning I put it back where I found it. I would swear I 've also seen this location in the AIM, but couldn't find it just now. Note also the FM only ground cable further down. - Bill W

[TimG]

Looks great, Bill. I need to get some Evapo Rust. Everyone loves that stuff.

[1967Z28]

The car is turning out great. Nice job! Here's a picture of Starksen Chevrolet with an SS427 Impala closest to the camera.

[60sStuff]

The car is turning out great. Nice job! Here's a picture of Starksen Chevrolet with an SS427 Impala closest to the camera.

Great vintage photo!

1967 427 Impala
Camaro’s in second row
Wagons further down the lot

Thanks for sharing .

[67since67]

The car is turning out great. Nice job! Here's a picture of Starksen Chevrolet with an SS427 Impala closest to the camera.

Wow what a cool photo, thanks for sharing!! :beers:

[1967Z28]

You're welcome, Bill. I thought you might enjoy that. :)

[luzl78]

The car is turning out great. Nice job! Here's a picture of Starksen Chevrolet with an SS427 Impala closest to the camera.

15x6 ralleys

[PeteLeathersac]

'

Below '66 SS396 w/ Towtabs appears to be Starksen sponsored.
Hard to read but Owner/Driver may be Tommy Johnson?:hmmm:
Lovin' this thread and Wagon, awesome stuff Bill!
:beers:
~ Pete

.

[WILMASBOYL78]

Check out that hair-do on the gal...take me back to the 60's :smirk:

[67since67]

'

Below '66 SS396 w/ Towtabs appears to be Starksen sponsored.
Hard to read but Owner/Driver may be Tommy Johnson?:hmmm:
Lovin' this thread and Wagon, awesome stuff Bill!
:beers:
~ Pete

.

Love this Chevelle, the stance, wheels/tires, tow tabs screams '60's! Has the same tag frame as my car.

Guessing it was taken at nearby Antelope Vally Raceway, now known as LA County Raceway??

Thank You!! - Bill W

[67since67]

I am not a fan of bumper guards, but the car came with them so back on they go.
The original rubber inserts have cracks, repros are not an option.

Used my favorite rubber cleaner, it makes tires true black and they stay that way. Buff with dry towels to prevent shine. Original mounting hardware and bumper brackets/hardware cleaned as well. Polish the chrome and it's ready for assembly with new, out of the box, unpolished Au-ve-co 8624 bumper bolts.

[67since67]

The bumper fell into place nicely!

Park/TS lamps given the same cleaning/white paint treatment as the B/U lamps, The vintage 1157 bulbs cleaned and tested, covered with a fresh pair of lenses.

With the park/turn lamps installed and the black CA tag and frame cleaned and installed, the exterior is all wrapped up except for wheels and tires!! I have a better front tag frame coming (Thanks Tony!!)

I have a few minor items to attend to under the hood and she'll be ready to roll!!

When the temps get out of the deepfreeze here I will try a couple wheel/tire combos. Stay tuned for outdoor pix, and Thank You to everyone for the kind words and following along!!

Bill W

[TimG]

The bumper guards look good on that car, Bill.

[60sStuff]

The bumper guards look good on that car, Bill.

I agree with Tim on those bumper guards.

I don’t care for them on a Muscle Car, as they tend to clutter the front.

But, on a station wagon they look appropriate.
Wagons were designed to haul things, people/kids, lumber and nursery plants.
Plus you may need to push shopping carts out of the way, back in the 60’s.

Chris 🍺

[WILMASBOYL78]

It's been almost a week since we have had another update...hope it's not done :smirk:

-wilma

[MosportGreen66]

It's been almost a week since we have had another update...hope it's not done :smirk:

-wilma

I've been granted authorization to see some top secret teaser pics and all I can say is wow...

[67since67]

On the home stretch....

Additional cleaning of door jambs and new seals from Metro Super Soft, note the interior red overspray onto the door shell. I love old oil change stickers, and the pinch welds are rather nice, don't you think?

The plastic trim surrounding the rear opening was dry rotted and crumbling away, no replacement available. Using some red door jamb windlass from my stash it actually is trimmed out nicer than the original.

[67since67]

It's been almost a week since we have had another update...hope it's not done :smirk:

-wilma

Well, actually it is done....just catching up with pix. :beers:

[67since67]

This rat's nest "CARTER Emission Reduction Kit" was attached to the left inner fender, and since the holes were there I opted to clean it and put it back, tidying up the wiring and tucking behind the booster. Note how it instructs to set base timing at 4 degrees less than spec, that would be TDC :eek2:!!
Conversation piece if nothing else.

I've seen these on other SoCal cars, was it required in all of CA, or maybe just an LA County thing??

[67since67]

I've seen these coolant recovery bottles on other CA desert cars as well. The "clear" tubing is still pliable, so kept it in place.

Final shot of under hood, all the nits have been picked. I was tempted to blend in some missing paint on the air cleaner, but cooler head prevailed.

Close the hood, ready to roll! :burnout:

[olredalert]

----My understanding on actual smog pumps mandated in California is that certain cars built after January 1 1966 had to have the set-up that is on this 67 COOL wagon! I could easily be wrong and it won't bother me a bit......Bill S

[67since67]

Original wheels cleaned up well, All five match of course.
Overspray through the slots as typical. Interesting stamps, I am more used to seeing the 14x5 wheel stamped "A3" rather than "A", and not having the five numeral stamp on the outer rim. Different wheel MFG for Fremont cars??
Speculating that 15096 may translate to 15 (15th day) 09 (September) 6 (1966)?? If anyone has insight please post up!

[67since67]

We went from single digits to almost 60 here, so let's get some outdoor pix!

First up, original wheels and poverty caps, as built. The stance might be a smidge high, but I like it this way.

Couldn't resist another shot of the dash, I love 60's red interiors!!

I need to round up a vintage In-N-Out Burger decal to go with the AAA SoCal decal! (Now I'm hungry for a Double Double and strawberry shake!!)

[67since67]

Neglected to mention earlier, I have original keys and POP also.

Here's TT's for comparison.

This about wraps it up. The L30 runs like a Swiss watch, I got all the leaks plugged in the Powerglide, the A/C blows 32 degrees. Adjust the headlights and get an alignment when the streets get washed off in April and we're ready to roll!!

Oh, the lack of power to the A/C clutch?? Some dummy (Me) neglected to plug in the compressor switch (behind the glove box) when assembling the dash.

I have the Concours signed up for the Northern Ohio Chevelle Show in August, that will be fun as always!!

Thank you all for following along and for the kind gestures and encouragement!! :youguysrock:

Bill Wente

[67since67]

----My understanding on actual smog pumps mandated in California is that certain cars built after January 1 1966 had to have the set-up that is on this 67 COOL wagon! I could easily be wrong and it won't bother me a bit......Bill S

Bill, I would be curious to know what kind of motivation for adding that Carter kit beyond the factory installed K19 smog stuff, mandated for smog check?? Hoping the CA guys here can offer some insight.

[72-SS-L48]

Love seeing all these pics Bill. Super impressive job and unreal attention to detail. I love the look of it with at ATT's also. Absolutely knock out!

What products worked the best throughout the build?

[RPOLS3]

Thanks for sharing this awesome project, I really enjoyed following along. The car turned out spectacular! I am a big fan of the dog dish caps but the TT's are over the top cool. That thing will have a huge crowd around it wherever it goes.

[MosportGreen66]

What my brother said!

Looks great Bill! Congrats and job very well done. You saved this Wagon!

[60sStuff]

I’m rather speechless ….. not anymore.

For me, I get so caught up with 60’s performance cars (muscle / corvette) that I need a Wagon like Mr. Wente’s example to remind me there’s so much more to seek out and admire.

So “refreshing” is this White on Red, with air condition Survivor long top.

If I were ever able to view all your toys under one roof, I’d be hard pressed to not stare at this ‘67 Concours Station Wagon.
To me, it’s much rarer then our Muscle cars.

Here’s to you Bill for your hard work.

Chris

[carnut4life]

Great work on fabulous a fabulous car Bill, thanks for taking us along for the ride! I never thought I'd say it but I like it better with the hub caps.

[tom406]

Great stuff-I’m a wagon guy so you were preaching to the choir:). I think you have that date code right. That date code configuration, location and large font indicate to me that it’s a Norris Technologies (NT) wheel rather than Kelsey Hayes or another vendor.

[67since67]

Here’s to you Bill for your hard work.

Chris

Gaah!! Chris you just had to post a pic of a Double Double didn't you!! I'm salivating...

[60sStuff]

Gaah!! Chris you just had to post a pic of a Double Double didn't you!! I'm salivating...

Actually, I plan on going there tomorrow.

This particular In-N-Out is across the street from the plant where your Wagon was built.
GM then, Tesla now.

Double Double with a fry “light” for me please.

[olredalert]

----I can't add anything. These guys have said it all, and more. So friggin cool!!!....Bill S

[67since67]

Actually, I plan on going there tomorrow.

This particular In-N-Out is across the street from the plant where your Wagon was built.
GM then, Tesla now.

Double Double with a fry “light” for me please.

This facility, pre NUMMI, pre Tesla, is hallowed ground for me..:worship:

Currently three Fremont cowl tags in my garage....

[67since67]

For me, I get so caught up with 60’s performance cars (muscle / corvette) that I need a Wagon like Mr. Wente’s example to remind me there’s so much more to seek out and admire.

Chris

Thanks Chris, when I got rolling on this project I had no intentions of mentioning it on this board, it's not a Musclecar, right?? It was only at the urging of members, the Shutzbank brothers and the Dykstra brothers, among others that I began posting.

[60sStuff]

Thanks Chris, when I got rolling on this project I had no intentions of mentioning it on this board, it's not a Musclecar, right?? It was only at the urging of members, the Shutzbank brothers and the Dykstra brothers, among others that I began posting.

Morning guys, girls,

All those brothers and others got it right!

I too, would have urged, especially knowing of your excellent craftsmanship.

BTW,
Standard hubcap = Wife
Torque Thrust = Husband

Chris.

[PeteLeathersac]

'

Awesome everything and thanks again Bill for including us all on your survivor'ation ride.:biggthumpup:
Below pic looks like subject actually a '69 B-body w/ seldom seen/known GM Camp Top...only fits Wagons w/o roof racks?
:beers:
~ Pete

.

[TimG]

Bill, I like them both but I'm partial to the Torque Thrust wheels.

[67since67]

Love seeing all these pics Bill. Super impressive job and unreal attention to detail. I love the look of it with at ATT's also. Absolutely knock out!

What products worked the best throughout the build?

Dave,
These results would have not been possible without Evapo-Rust and NAPA Aluminum Brightener. Others, Purple Power, Simple Green, Turtle Wax chrome polish and wax, Adams Products interior detailer and glass cleaner, Easy Off oven cleaner (Heavy Duty), Presta 2 Step, Collinite 845, Wizard Spray Detailer, and others I'm not recalling right now. - Bill W

[67since67]

especially knowing of your excellent craftsmanship.

Chris.

Chris, I can't claim much in the way of craftsmanship. Now, threads by Gary, (L78 Nova), and Dave, (A12 Pilot) to name a few, there is real craftsmanship!! :headbang: :worship:

[TimG]

Bill, don't put the tent on the roof, I draw the line there :-)

[Jonesy]

That tent option just looks like a bad idea alltogether. :dunno:

This wagon turned out great and it was great to see all the progress pictures. I really enjoyed this. I would put the original caps and steelies on it and drive it.
Maybe that is because I appreciate the :worship:originality :worship: of this car.
I also never thought you could get the woodgrain for these anymore and that makes it even more special. :biggthumpup:

[Chuck_Burg]

This wagon is just awesome:beers: I just discovered this thread.. WOW! Great job preserving this beauty!!!! This will turn more heads at a show than most hot rods...

[dustinm]

I dont know why but a woodgrain wagons have always had a spot in my heart. Too bad my wife draws the line at wagons...

[grantprix]

Just spotted this thread today, all I can say is... WOW!! Nothing more fun and rewarding than bringing a survivor back to life. Love your attention to detail and your knowledge of what's correct. Well done is an understatement, what an absolutely amazing transformation! Enjoy those burger runs in style.

Grant

[67since67]

Too bad my wife draws the line at wagons...

HaHa!! This wagon, as ugly as it was, has always been banished to the far end of the building, under a lift. More than once Jani has tried give it away "Just take that ugly thing and get it out of here!" But now she is totally into it, even helping me at times.
She grew up a SoCal CA surfer girl who likes old Ford woodies, so I believe the woodgrain swayed her.

[67since67]

Worthy of mention, in the past few months while I was doing the Concours I was also dividing my time in pushing along the restoration of my buddy Dave's '67 SS. It is now near completion, waiting to get the carb back from Eric and a couple details. Planning on a debut at "Chevelles in the Smokies", Pigeon Forge, in a couple weeks. Look for it at MCACN 2022.

I sold Dave this car in about 1987. It also is a CA high desert car, the floor pans are so clean that the original paint, oversprays, and factory undercoats were preserved. Total original panels of course. I restored the chassis in 2006, it's been a long road since then with a final push began about two years ago.

This L35/M20 Chevelle has a nice selection of options including factory 8 track player, tilt wheel, tach and gauges, and CA smog equipment. Sold new at DeAnza Chevrolet in Riverside.

It was, quite literally, saved from the junk yard! My old friend Gordon moved to CA forty years ago, working for Lockheed in Lancaster. He calls me one day, "Billy, we gotta save this Chevelle or it's going to the junk yard". IIRC I paid $450 for it.

Bill W

[67since67]

I might add, those black and yellow tags and frames are the originals to this Chevelle.

[Mr.Nickey Nova]

Nice job Bill!! Very nice car...

[scuncio]

Beautiful car. Miss the days where you could find cars like this in the CA desert for $2000-4000. I paid $2500 for my ‘70 SS396 in 1997, and dragged it back from Lancaster, CA where it had spent its entire life. Still have the Rally Chevrolet license plate frames.

[Zman1969]

I like Chevelle wagons years ago I had a 69 Concours wagon that i fixed up to haul the kids and mom on vacation, kinda miss it too(horrible pic I know)

[BJCHEV396]

Just read this whole thread....great job Bill!

[dykstra]

I love this “Wente Woody Wagon”!!!! Like many others have stated, you have knocked it out of the park Bill!! BRAVO

[cook_dw]

Amazing work Bill.

[67since67]

A ways back Chris (60sStuff) posted a couple Concours wagon magazine print ads. Here are two more from my wall.

[67since67]

Worthy of mention, in the past few months while I was doing the Concours I was also dividing my time in pushing along the restoration of my buddy Dave's '67 SS. It is now near completion, waiting to get the carb back from Eric and a couple details. Planning on a debut at "Chevelles in the Smokies", Pigeon Forge, in a couple weeks. Look for it at MCACN 2022.

I sold Dave this car in about 1987. It also is a CA high desert car, the floor pans are so clean that the original paint, oversprays, and factory undercoats were preserved. Total original panels of course. I restored the chassis in 2006, it's been a long road since then with a final push began about two years ago.

This L35/M20 Chevelle has a nice selection of options including factory 8 track player, tilt wheel, tach and gauges, and CA smog equipment. Sold new at DeAnza Chevrolet in Riverside.

It was, quite literally, saved from the junk yard! My old friend Gordon moved to CA forty years ago, working for Lockheed in Lancaster. He calls me one day, "Billy, we gotta save this Chevelle or it's going to the junk yard". IIRC I paid $450 for it.

Bill W

Update... Chevelles in the Smokies 2022 is in the books. In addition to being awarded Best in Class, here is a very emotional Dave carrying the Best of Show trophy. That punch bowl is filled with 500 $1.00 coins.
Dave's lifelong dream has been to own a nice '67 SS396 in his favorite Marina Blue/Bright Blue color combo.

Bill W

[67ssmn]

well deserved best of show, car is very nice

[TimG]

What a beautiful car, I hope to see it someday.

[SS427]

I was fortunate enough to be able to see this car in person last month along with the rest of Bill's collection. What a neat car and in unbelievable condition. Amazing what a little elbow grease and cleaning supplies can do.

[olredalert]

----I feel a whole lot like scheduling a trip to Waterloo!!!.....Bill S

[Xplantdad]

Very cool!

[SS427]

----I feel a whole lot like scheduling a trip to Waterloo!!!.....Bill S

You won't be disappointed!

[Bill Pritchard]

In addition to being awarded Best in Class, here is a very emotional Dave carrying the Best of Show trophy.

Ha....and to think that car was headed to the scrap yard at one point! Congrats to both Dave and you, Bill :biggthumpup:

[67since67]

----I feel a whole lot like scheduling a trip to Waterloo!!!.....Bill S

"Come On Down" Bill!! :beers:

[Damien]

Fantastic work on the wagon Bill!

[67since67]

The Concours made it's debut today at the 40th Annual 4th Street Cruise....more than 800 cars.

[luzl78]

The Concours made it's debut today at the 40th Annual 4th Street Cruise....more than 800 cars.
Looks like Jared Ritchie’s 71 Monte ss with the red interior next to your car. He sold it at auction and it just went up to Mecum where it didn’t sell.

[olredalert]

The Concours made it's debut today at the 40th Annual 4th Street Cruise....more than 800 cars.

----It appears that there were several of your bretheren long roofs there as well, Bill. Cool!....Bill S

[jeffschevelle]

Somehow I missed this entire thread until now! Bill sent me many of the pics by text, but seeing it all brought together with the narrative is a treat! Very nice work as always, Bill!

[Big Block Bill]

FANTASTIC BILL! Looks GREAT! Another Job VERY done for sure.

Bill

[67since67]

Looks like Jared Ritchie’s 71 Monte ss with the red interior next to your car. He sold it at auction and it just went up to Mecum where it didn’t sell.

I really don't know anything about the MC other than it has really good black paint. He was busy being loud with his buddy who's wife kept leaning against my car :thumbsdown: and I was catching up with old friends.

[KevinW]

Looks like you went with the TTs for your 1st outing :D

[luzl78]

I really don't know anything about the MC other than it has really good black paint. He was busy being loud with his buddy who's wife kept leaning against my car :thumbsdown: and I was catching up with old friends.

That’s the new owner. He bought the car at a small auction for 55,000 a few months back and had it at me I’m and it bid to 65,000 but he didn’t take it.

[67since67]

Headed to the races!

Northern Ohio Chevelle Club Show. Here's the Concours with Jeff Helm's incredible L88 powered SS vintage drag car in tow.

[6t7 camaro]

That is a great pic!

[dykstra]

I had a business meeting in Waterloo, IA, so I stopped by to see Bill and his incredible collection of cars.
Thanks again for your hospitality and for giving me a ride in this awesome wagon.
It runs as good as it looks.

The carpet pic is for Bill S. As I know how he appreciates original carpet and interiors.

Thanks again Bill W.

P.S. I hope the pics load correctly. I have a short video clip of us driving and need to figure out how to upload it.

[dykstra]

https://youtu.be/1bkBZKdelSI

[RPOLS3]

Awesome

[olredalert]

----Thanks, Dave! Love this long roof. I'm just finishing up my new beater. Ya'll will see it at MCACN. I'll send Dave some pics (because I'm clueless) and you guys can see how I've been wasting the little bit of time I have left,,,,LOL!....Bill S

[67since67]

you guys can see how I've been wasting the little bit of time I have left,,,,LOL!....Bill S

Yeah Bill, that pretty much sums up what I'm doing here too!!... :beers: - Bill W

[carnut4life]

Seeing how passionate both Bill's are about the hobby in their 70's really inspires me! Cars have been my main interest my whole life and I use to wonder if I'd be able to enjoy them once I retired but you two have proven that age is just a number and as long as we have our health anything is possible. Thank you both.

[60sStuff]

dykstra,

Thank you for sharing these cool photos of Bill’s ‘67 wagon, I envy you.

Mr. Wente,
Would that worn area in the Original paint on the RH side of the tailgate possibly be from a right handed person lifting to close that gate?

Also, are you able to keep the California Black & Yellow plates on the car after it’s registered in Iowa?
I had to install California (period correct B&Y) plates on my New Jersey ‘65 GTO to register it in my name.

Thanks, Chris.

[67since67]

Mr. Wente,
Would that worn area in the Original paint on the RH side of the tailgate possibly be from a right handed person lifting to close that gate?

Also, are you able to keep the California Black & Yellow plates on the car after it’s registered in Iowa?


Chris, that is a very plausible explanation for that paint wear!

In Iowa we can do what's call Year of Manufacture (YOM) tags, meaning we can install original IA tags dated to the YOM of the car. Mount them to the car and have your current tags and registration inside the car. (I slide mine under the seat)
Years ago while at the court house transferring tags and title to a new purchase I asked "Does YOM apply to out of state tags original to this. car, but from the state it was sold new?" The clerk spent 15 or 20 minutes with her supervisor on the computer, and came back, "We don't find anything that says you can't, so it's ok"
I have never had a LEO question it, in fact we once took my L79 El Camino to lunch (original CA tags and dealer frames from Dahl Chevrolet in Oakland, repro 1967 sticker). FIVE State Troopers were there having lunch, I parked between two troopers cars, safe spot!
When they left, one of them bent over and scrutinized the front tag. Then went to the back and checked the rear tag closely. Then got in his car and left.
Must be ok!
Original tags stay where they belong!! :headbang: :beers:

Bill W

[60sStuff]

Bill,
I’m not sure I understand what you are referring to saying “tags”?

In California we also have the (YOM) system offered.

How it works on the ‘65 I purchased from NJ is I can not keep the Original NJ “plates” on the car any longer.
I now have to have period correct Black and Yellow California “plates” with the year of car (1965) “tag” in upper RH corner.

I was able to find the correct first letter for the ‘65 model year in the B/Y.

It seems you were able to keep the B/Y California plates on your wagon and not switch to Iowa plates.
Good for you as the Black & Yellow license plates look great on your car.

[dykstra]

----Thanks, Dave! Love this long roof. I'm just finishing up my new beater. Ya'll will see it at MCACN. I'll send Dave some pics (because I'm clueless) and you guys can see how I've been wasting the little bit of time I have left,,,,LOL!....Bill S

https://www.yenko.net/forum/showthread.php?p=1603401#post1603401

[x Baldwin Motion]

Bill,
I’m not sure I understand what you are referring to saying “tags”?

………….the Black & Yellow license plates look great on your car.

Some states refer to license plates as tags.

[x Baldwin Motion]

This has been an incredible well documented preservation. I’m going to have to view it again in its entirety on a big screen, the pocket phone doesn’t grab it. Thanks Bill W . for taking the time to photograph and explain each step. ��������

[67since67]

With this thread booted to the top, it's appropriate to update.

MCACN 2022, with Jeff Helms incredible Real Day 2 L88 race car in tow thanks to an NOS hitch and a tow bar.

Recent additions are NOS F70x14 bias-ply white letter tires on vintage Keystone 14x7 wheels.

That Craftsman tool box and tools were my Christmas gift 1964. - Bill W

[1967 4K]

Those Remington XT-120 Belted tires were the tire to have back in my day. Hadn’t seen any in a long time.

[olredalert]

----Bill,,,Can you expand on the grille trim for the end panels with the holes? I owned a 67 SS new and really can't remember that. Maybe a close up picture as well of my favorite wagons pieces.....Bill S

[67since67]

----Bill,,,Can you expand on the grille trim for the end panels with the holes? I owned a 67 SS new and really can't remember that. Maybe a close up picture as well of my favorite wagons pieces.....Bill S

I'd be happy to explain this Bill! I furnished this image for one of Dale Macintosh's books.

The grille on the bottom is found on all '67 Chevelle trim levels and El Camino EXCEPT SS396 coupe, convertible, and Concours wagon.

The top grille is SS396, note the open slots on the ends, a few more bars blacked out, and no pierced slots for the top center emblem.

The center grille is Concours wagon only. Note the open slots and extra blackout like SS396, but has pierced slots to mount the top center grille emblem.

So the Concours grille is essentially a Super Sport grille with top center slots added and unique to that model only.

Bill W

[PeteLeathersac]

‘

Great info!:biggthumpup:
Are top and middle grilles exactly the same other than emblem piercing…specifically, where vertical/horizontal bars meet is just paint differences as top example only w/ fully black vert’ bars?:hmmm:
:beers:
~ Pete

.

[olredalert]

I'd be happy to explain this Bill! I furnished this image for one of Dale Macintosh's books.

The grille on the bottom is found on all '67 Chevelle trim levels and El Camino EXCEPT SS396 coupe, convertible, and Concours wagon.

The top grille is SS396, note the open slots on the ends, a few more bars blacked out, and no pierced slots for the top center emblem.

The center grille is Concours wagon only. Note the open slots and extra blackout like SS396, but has pierced slots to mount the top center grille emblem.

So the Concours grille is essentially a Super Sport grille with top center slots added and unique to that model only.

Bill W

----Wow! Never noticed that all these years. Knew about the emblem holes and the paint difs, but not the extra holes.....Bill S

[67since67]

‘

Great info!:biggthumpup:
Are top and middle grilles exactly the same other than emblem piercing…specifically, where vertical/horizontal bars meet is just paint differences as top example only w/ fully black vert’ bars?:hmmm:
:beers:
~ Pete

.

Yes Pete, the top and center grilles are exactly the same except for emblem piercing. My example in that pic has that discrepancy, good catch!

Also, original grilles will have this stamp to the right of center. "D"=day shift, "N"= night shift.

[60sStuff]

Bill W,

I saved this “key” photo of the minor differences in the aluminum grills.

Great examples for the Chevelle enthusiasts to take note on.

I really appreciate your details on the cars you love.
I share the exact same when it comes to the early GTO.

>>OEM<<

[60sStuff]

Bill,

I’m doing a bump to this awesome thread of yours as it deserves it, plus I was thinking of your wagon when I saw this very low mile 1964 Oldsmobile wagon.

What caught my eye on this ‘64 Olds, besides the incredible condition is the “ventshades”.
I’ve always liked these vintage ventshades and they are offered in the Pontiac assessories catalog.

Pictured below is the dealer installed offering from the 1966 Pontiac catalog.

Also a few photos of the pristine ‘64 Olds wagon.

Chris.

[olredalert]

----My neighbor at our old house had a flatroof like this with 7000 original miles. Every bit as nice as this, but a dark green with green inside. I know he sold it, but don't know where it went.....Bill S

[67since67]

That Olds wagon is really cool Chris, thanks for posting!! The long body side trim reminds me of the Concours upper trim, especially where it curves down at the front, love it! I wish my cargo mat were that nice. - Bill W

[67since67]

Speaking of long roof Oldsmobiles, this was at a local show today.

[67since67]

Also this Ranch Wagon. 7,300 miles. Owner plans a Coyote/6 speed swap soon.

[Bill Pritchard]

Love the Hurst/Olds emblem on the tailgate of the blue 61 Olds wagon :)

[augy]

Wow Bill! Beautiful! I've neglected checking in the Yenko forums for a couple years now. No excuse. Since you called me on Sunday just to visit and then telling me about this project, I finally logged on and went through all 22 pages in one sitting. Kudos to you for doing this whole preservation on the wagon and taking pics all along the way. Beautiful job! One suggestion: I'd like to see pics of the completed interior. Seats, door panels, etc. You do have pics of the restored dash, but to see everything as a whole would be GREAT! BTW, I came about THIS close (fingers about 1/2" apart) to buying a really nice '67 wagon out of Albuquerque, NM a couple years ago. 283/3 speed, white with blue interior. It was on eBay and I got outbid at the last second....:mad2:

[67since67]

Thanks Steve (Augy)!! Great to see you back here.

Had the Concours out for cruise night, so grabbed some interior pix for you. Steve built the front seat cover for me using vinyl yardage from Legendary and incorporating the original heat pressed seat back panel. Legendary doesn't offer a cover for a non-split bench.

This interior is totally original except for the front seat cover, painting the steering wheel, and restoring the original dash pad. The original carpet, door panels and headliner were in excellent condition. - Bill W

[PeteLeathersac]

‘

L:eek2:ve the Wagons, awesome stuff!
:beers:
~ Pete

.