A head-turning 1972 Chevrolet Camaro cruised into the V8 Speed and Resto Shop recently, ready for a touch of cosmetic magic and some TLC. The owner wanted to accentuate the Camaro’s gorgeous gold paint with some classic black Z/28 stripes, and let’s just say, we were chomping at the bit to show off the results!
The treatment included a fresh coat on the hood and deck lid, along with the addition of those sharp black stripes. To add a bit of extra flair, we also installed some sleek Ringbrothers hood hinges. But that’s not all – we we took care of a few other maintenance items to keep this beauty running smoothly.
At the heart of the engine upgrade was the installation of a Holley Terminator X EFI system. This modern fuel injection system replaced the original carburetor, providing precise fuel delivery and improved performance. To support the EFI system, several additional components were added, including a Holley fuel pump module, a mechanical fuel pump block-off plate, and a fuel pressure regulator. ARP fasteners were used throughout, and a Lokar transmission kick-down bracket and cable were fitted to ensure smooth gear changes.
To improve the Camaro’s handling and drivability, a new Borgeson power steering gearbox and rag joint was installed. The Borgeson steering box enhances road feel while adding a level of precision to the Camaro’s steering that had eroded over the decades.
This is just the beginning for this stunning Camaro. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to work our magic and elevate this classic muscle car to even greater heights! We can’t wait to share the final product with all of you. In the meantime, if you have a car that’s craving a makeover, drop on by V8 Speed and Resto Shop – we’d love to chat about your vision!
Click this link or call 314.783.8325 to contact us for upgrades or a complete restoration!
The Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme is a mid-range car produced by General Motors for those seeking comfortable, reliable, and stylish vehicles. The Cutlass Supreme was the fanciest version of the Cutlass you could buy, and the 1971 convertible is one of 10,255 built that year.
The owner of this particular car purchased it in 1973 and has driven and enjoyed it ever since. However, over time, the car started to show its age, so he called the V8 Speed and Resto Shop to restore it.
Tearing Down To Build Back Up
The team at V8 Speed and Resto Shop began by media blasting the chassis to remove all the rust and corrosion, and then powder coated it in a black finish similar to the original paint. They also replaced the original suspension parts with tubular control arms and billet coil-over shocks from QA1, and a Borgeson steering gear for better road feel and steering performance.
The body was stripped in search of rust and damage, and any rust holes were repaired with new steel. The team also repaired the bottom of the door shell to replace some rust holes. Their mission was to use as much of the original GM steel as possible on this car to keep it as authentic as possible.
Renewing The Driveline
The original Olds 350 V8 engine was also given a refresh. The engine was disassembled, cleaned, measured, and remachined, and new rod and main bearings, pistons, rings, gaskets, and all new ARP hardware were installed. A COMP hydraulic roller camshaft conversion was installed, which not only added a cam profile designed to increase the engine’s torque output, but also uses roller lifters to reduce friction and the risk of the cam going flat. Once it was all assembled, the engine was topped with an aluminum intake manifold and a Holley Terminator X electronic fuel injection system for increased reliability.
Vibrant Green Once Again
The body was then painted in its original code 43 Lime Green Metallic color, and the team carefully re-mounted the body panels, making sure nothing got bumped or chipped in the process. Once installed, all the exterior surfaces were sanded once again in preparation for sealer and the color and clear application.
After a couple months of curing time, the paint team started the wetsanding and buffing process on the paint to further flatten the surface and bring out the gloss. The restored trim, lettering, and badges were then carefully installed.
New Upholstery And Bright Spoked Wheels
The interior was renewed, with the seats, door panels, rear side panels, dash pad, sun visors, carpet, and more being rebuilt or replaced. A new A/C system from Vintage Air was installed, and the dashboard and firewall were bodyworked and painted satin black.
The convertible top mechanism and hydraulics were also restored, and a new white convertible top was installed. The car also got a set of custom made Dayton chrome spoked wheels with white pinstriped tires.
The original gauges were restored and updated with LED lights, and a quartz conversion was installed to keep the original clock hands spinning smoothly. A Vintage Air control panel matches the original brushed aluminum design, and a Retro Sound radio provides modern tunes for the ride.
The car was finally finished and returned to the owner, who was thrilled with the results. The car is now in better-than-new condition, and the owner is excited to make new memories with it.
What Can We Restore For You?
The V8 Speed and Resto Shop team stands ready to turn the clock back on whatever you drive, restoring it authentically or adding modern performance and convenience features as you wish. Contact the shop today to learn more.
Performance Racing Industry (PRI) President Mike Good joins Kevin Oeste, Mike “Q-Ball” Clarke, and Brian Wibbenmeyer in this on-location episode of the V8 Radio Podcast! Although not new to the industry, 2024 marked Mike Good’s first PRI Show as President, and the racing business trade show was a huge success. Hear a bit about what makes Good tick, automotive trivia, and the usual V8 Radio Banter on this episode! Recorded at the 2024 PRI Show Podcast Paddock. #prishow #v8radio #podcast #v8radiopodcast #carpodcast
We’re honored to present the V8 Speed & Resto Shop display from the 2024 Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals! The cars pictured scored an average of 993 out of 1000 points, including a 997 and 998! Perhaps the best part is that they are all driven, and they represent cars we’ve built over our 20 year history.
Left to right, they were completed in 2010, 2016, 2013, 2012, 2023, and 2019, with the chassis in process now.
It’s common for fresh, unused show cars to score high at shows, but when a car finished 11 years ago scores 994, a 9 year old build scores 997, and a 5 year old restoration scores 998, you know the build team paid attention to the details. We’re fortunate for the incredible customer support we receive, for our talented and caring team, and to the Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals for hosting our display.
Take a Private Tour of the 2024 Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals!
Take a V8TV walking tour of the 2024 Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals! This long-form video starts with the 60th Anniversary GTO display and wanders throughout the entire show, narrated by Kevin Oeste and shot after hours.
V8 Speed and Resto Shop Full Shop Tour Walk Through Video
Join us on a full-length tour of the V8 Speed and Resto Shop! You’ll see in-depth features of some of great completed restomod and pro-touring cars as we prepare them for the Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals, and works in progress in our mechanical department, metal fabrication shop, body shop, paint center, upholstery shop, engine machine shop, and more.
We’re fortunate for the opportunity to build such cool cars for great enthusiast customers around the world. If you have a classic car with its own story, we’d love to help bring it back to life, preserving what makes it special while restoring it to its full potential.
V8 Speed and Resto Shop 817 S. Main Street Red Bud, IL 62278 314783.8325 https://www.v8speedshop.com resto@v8speedshop.com
Once upon a time, we brought the Hot Rod Magazine TV crew to Nick Scavo’s house as he and his team of buddies prepared for the Joliet NMCA race. Race prep turned into a car show, with all kinds of action. How many people do you recognize? Produced by Kevin Oeste.
A Custom, Wide-Bodied, LSA-Supercharged C2 Built To Drive!
The famous Corvette “Split Window” was a 1963-only feature, but this custom 1965 Corvette Coupe boasts a split window conversion along with a bunch of other cool modifications. It’s wearing a widebody kit and Corvette Connection chassis, and the centerpiece is a supercharged LSA V8 engine backed by a 4L75 automatic transmission.
The custom C2 Corvette arrived in-process, and the V8 Speed and Resto Shop Team is tasked with completing many of the tasks to bring this Corvette closer to the finish line. Follow along with the photo galleries to see how this one progresses!
A classic 1980 Corvette recently rolled into our shop, and we’re excited to breathe new life into this American sports car. The owner has a clear vision for the car, and we’re ready to bring it to life.
Interior Refresh
The interior is mostly complete, but it still needs a few finishing touches. We’ll install the remaining interior components, including a new tilt steering wheel and a reproduction radio.
Mechanical Upgrades
To enhance the Corvette’s performance, we’ll focus on the engine. A true dual exhaust system with headers will improve airflow and unleash the engine’s potential. We’ll also install a Holley Sniper 2 fuel injection system, along with a new fuel pump, ignition, and sensors. To further optimize performance, we may upgrade the heads, cam, and intake manifold.
To keep the engine running cool, we’ll consider installing a mechanical fan. Additionally, a more appropriate torque converter will help optimize power delivery.
Comprehensive Mechanical Inspection
Before diving into performance upgrades, we’ll conduct a thorough inspection of all mechanical systems, including the power steering, power brakes, air conditioning, and brakes. We’ll replace any worn bushings or other components as needed to ensure a smooth and reliable ride.
We’re confident that this 1980 Corvette will emerge from our shop looking and running great. Stay tuned for updates on our progress!
We recently welcomed a 1972 Dodge Charger into the V8 Speed and Resto Shop. This classic muscle car, once a beloved high school ride, is set to become its owner’s ultimate retirement cruiser. This cool Charger requires some TLC to reach its full potential.
The Owner’s Vision
The owner’s primary goals for the Charger are clear:
Complete the wiring and tuning: Ensuring the car runs smoothly and efficiently.
Install a custom console: Adding a modern touch with a touchscreen and other features.
Prepare for cross-country adventures: Making the Charger road-worthy for long-distance travel.
The owner’s emotional attachment to the car is evident. This is more than just a vehicle; it’s a symbol of his youth and a companion for his golden years.
Our Approach
At V8 Speed and Resto, we’re committed to bringing the owner’s vision to life. Our team of skilled technicians will carefully address the wiring and tuning issues, ensuring the Charger runs like a dream. We’ll also collaborate with a custom interior specialist to create a console that blends modern amenities with the car’s classic charm.
Join Us on the Journey
We’re excited to share the progress of this restoration project with our community. Stay tuned for updates on the wiring, tuning, and custom console installation. We’ll also provide insights into the owner’s journey and his hopes for his beloved Charger.
