1966 Chevrolet Chevelle SS396 Restoration at V8 Speed and Resto Shop

Posted on by V8 Staff

A New Version Of An Old Friend

This cool 1966 Chevelle is the second for it’s owner Larry Frees, who might be familiar as the caretaker of the “Mr. Chevy” 1955 Chevy gasser and hauler ramp truck. He had a Marina Blue ‘66 Chevelle in his youth, and this car connects him to the car he had long ago. Larry provided us with the beginning of the restoration story as it unfolds in the V8 Speed & Resto Shop. The car turned out beautifully, after some sheet metal surgery, laser-straight bodywork, and a custom color brewed in-house… named “Tropical Frees!” It’s putting out over 400 horsepower, it rides on air, and looks fantastic!

Highlights of the Build

True SS 396: A real 138 VIN 1966 Chevelle SS, reimagined with passion and precision.
Custom Powertrain: Features a bored-out 396 to 402ci engine with a full roller valvetrain, paired with a Richmond 5-speed manual transmission with overdrive and Holley fuel injection.
Air Ride Suspension: Fully adjustable air ride system for a smooth, customizable ride.
Body and Paint: New quarter panels, trunk floor, tail pan, and deck lid, with meticulous metalwork to ensure tight, uniform gaps. Painted in a unique “Tropical Freeze” aqua-teal with pearl and metallic flair.
Custom Interior: Two-tone Fawn and Buckskin interior with a metallic cardboard-inspired dash, Dakota Digital gauges, Vintage Air AC, and a hand-painted tropical graphic.
Modern Touches: LED taillight inserts, 17″ chrome Craig SS wheels, and a smoothed rear package tray with flush 6×9 speakers.
Day Three Philosophy: Because it was not a numbers matching, all original car, it was built with a blend of classic SS 396 style with modern upgrades like fuel injection, air suspension, and enhanced power (over 400 HP!).

Why This Build Stands Out

This Chevelle isn’t just a restoration—it’s a reimagining of a classic, balancing authenticity with modern performance. Our team at V8 Speed and Resto spent months refining every detail, from TIG-welding panels for precision fitment to block-sanding the body for flawless reflections. The result is a car that looks like it’s carved from a single piece of steel, with a vibrant custom color and a roaring exhaust that demands attention.

Watch The Video:

Get in Touch

Dreaming of bringing your own classic car to life? Whether it’s a muscle car like this Chevelle, a fat-fendered beauty from the ’40s, or a gem from the ’80s or ’90s, we’re here to make it happen. Contact Us to start planning your dream build!

V8 Speed and Resto Shop

817 S. Main Street
Red Bud, IL 62278
314.783.8325
https://www.v8speedshop.com

SUBSCRIBE: https://goo.gl/RIkdDS

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1966 Chevrolet Chevelle SS396 Restoration at V8 Speed & Resto Shop

Contact the V8 Speed & Resto Shop with all your Classic or Muscle Car needs today!

817 S. MAIN STREET – RED BUD, IL 62278

The Build Photos

Stunning 1973 Plymouth Duster 340 Lives Again Restored By V8 Speed and Resto Shop

Posted on by V8 Staff

Revived & Reimagined: 1973 Plymouth Duster 340 Restoration

Witness the breathtaking transformation of a barn-find 1973 Plymouth Duster 340 into a show-stopping masterpiece! Here, we delve deep into the meticulous restoration process at the V8 Speed and Resto Shop, where our mission was clear: elevate this classic Duster beyond its original glory while preserving its iconic spirit.

CONTACT US: V8 Speed and Resto Shop

More Than Just a Restoration: A Vision Realized.

Our client entrusted us with his beloved, yet worn-out, Duster, seeking not just a repair, but a revival. We understand that every restoration is unique, and we pride ourselves on collaborating closely with our clients to bring their visions to life. Whether it’s a faithful stock restoration or a radical custom build, our team is equipped to exceed expectations.

The V8 Speed & Resto Shop Process: From Vision to Victory.

What does a full restoration entail? It begins with understanding your dream. Is it cruising down country roads, dominating the drag strip, or winning prestigious shows? We believe in visualizing your “best day” with your car to guide our process.

Step 1: Disassembly and Documentation.

We meticulously documented every detail of the Duster’s condition upon arrival, capturing thousands of photographs and precise measurements using digital calipers. This ensured we understood the original factory specifications and identified areas for improvement.

Step 2: Bodywork and Metal Fabrication.

The Duster’s unibody construction demanded precision. We media-blasted the body, mounted it to a custom jig, and meticulously repaired rust damage, including the floors and quarter panels. Leveraging original collision repair data, we ensured the body was perfectly square and true. Our expert fabricators skillfully addressed the challenges of fitting reproduction panels, achieving panel gaps superior to the factory standards.

Step 3: Paint and Finish.

The original medium blue metallic was reimagined into a custom hue inspired by a Range Rover blue, infused with pearl and other proprietary techniques. This unique color, expertly applied by our painter, Jeff, radiates brilliance, especially when paired with the fresh chrome trim and white interior.

1973 Plymouth Duster Restored by V8 Speed and Resto Shop

Step 4: Powertrain Enhancement.

The factory 340 engine, originally rated at 240 horsepower, received a significant performance upgrade. We installed a Comp Cams hydraulic roller camshaft, Edelbrock aluminum heads and intake manifold, a larger carburetor, MSD ignition, and a MagnaFlow 2.5-inch stainless steel mandrel-bent exhaust system. The result? A potent and exhilarating driving experience that far surpasses the original specifications.

Step 5: Chassis and Suspension Overhaul.

The entire underside was meticulously restored. We applied a durable bedliner coating for protection and ease of cleaning. All suspension components, including brakes, ball joints, bushings, and sway bar end links, were rebuilt or replaced. The rear axle was rebuilt with a new gear set, clutch, and limited-slip differential. This comprehensive overhaul ensures a smooth, precise, and enjoyable ride, maintaining the classic Duster feel with improved performance.

Step 6: Interior Transformation.

The interior underwent a dramatic transformation. The original bucket seats were stripped, recovered in bright white, and paired with matching door and side panels. Black carpeting and a fully detailed dashboard create a stunning contrast. The original rectangular gauge was replaced with a full set of Auto Meter gauges, and Vintage Air was added for enhanced comfort. A polished aluminum steering wheel, reminiscent of the original, completes the refined interior.

Step 7: Final Touches and Detailing.

The finishing touches included the iconic white 340 stripes, the rear graphic decal, and a set of meticulously restored Plymouth Rally wheels. The precision of the decal placement and the overall fit and finish highlight the attention to detail that defines our work.

Key Features and Upgrades:

Custom Blue Metallic Paint: A unique blend of Range Rover blue with added pearl and other enhancements.
Enhanced 340 Engine: Upgraded with Comp Cams, Edelbrock heads, and a MagnaFlow exhaust system.
Fully Rebuilt Suspension and Chassis: Ensuring a smooth and precise driving experience.
Luxurious White Interior: Featuring recovered seats, new door panels, and black carpeting.
Modernized Gauges and Comforts: Auto Meter gauges and Vintage Air for enhanced functionality and comfort.
Precision Bodywork and Panel Fit: Exceeding factory standards.
Iconic 340 Stripes and Rally Wheels: Preserving the classic Duster aesthetic.

Why Choose V8 Speed & Resto Shop?

Expert Craftsmanship: Our team of skilled professionals delivers unparalleled quality.
Comprehensive Services: From full restorations to custom builds, we handle it all.
Customer-Centric Approach: We work closely with you to bring your vision to life.
Attention to Detail: We meticulously document and execute every step of the restoration process.
Proven Track Record: Our portfolio showcases our commitment to excellence.

Don’t let your dream car remain a dream!

Whether you have a classic muscle car, a vintage gem, or a custom hot rod in mind, the V8 Speed and Resto Shop is here to help. Contact us today to discuss your project and turn your automotive dreams into reality.

817 S. MAIN STREET – RED BUD, IL 62278 – 314.783.8325

V8 SPEED AND RESTO SHOP

817 S. MAIN STREET

RED BUD, IL 62278

314.783.8325

EMAIL: resto@v8speedshop.com

Complete 1973 Plymouth Duster Restoration Photo Gallery

1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass Convertible Restoration at V8 Speed and Resto Shop

Posted on by V8 Staff

THIS PROJECT FEATURES:

Restored 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass Convertible Frame

FRAME OFF RESTORATION

CUSTOM FIREWALL

1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass Convertible Restoration at the V8 Speed and Resto Shop

CUSTOM PAINT

A Trusted Companion Since 1973

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.

BUILD PHOTOS:

1966 Chevrolet Corvette Maintenance at V8 Speed and Resto Shop

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1967 Ford Galaxie Convertible Engine And Suspension Upgrades at the V8 Speed and Resto Shop

Posted on by V8 Staff

The owner recently acquired this fun 1967 Ford Galaxie Convertible and is eager to transform it into a dependable and stylish family cruiser. While the car’s interior and bodywork, completed 5-6 years ago, are in satisfactory condition, he has a vision for several upgrades to enhance its performance, comfort, and safety.

UPDATE! Completed ’67 Galaxie Conquers Hot Rod Power Tour 2025!

1967 Ford Galaxie Convertible upgraded by V8 Speed and Resto Shop completes 2025 Hot Rod Power Tour

Congratulations to Brad Hennebert and Donn Taylor for completing the 2025 Hot Rod Magazine Power Tour! We were honored at the V8 Speed & Resto Shop to do some major upgrades to Brad’s 1967 Ford Galaxie just before the event, and even happier the trip went smoothly!

Brad’s words: “Hey Joe, it did amazing thank you! We completed the entire long-haul of the hot rod power tour in it, got our plaque and everything. Went over 1600 miles and five days had zero problems whatsoever. The car ran fantastic! Love it you guys did a great job. I barely had the engine broke in since I got it back from you guys and the thing ran flawlessly! Love the sound love the handling love the acceleration, everything about it you guys made it like a brand new car!”

Thanks Brad and Donn, when you have a team that loves what they do, the results are cars you can enjoy! We’re looking forward to more fun stories from the road!

Under the Hood Enhancements

The current 390 engine is experiencing leaks, prompting the owner to consider replacing it with a Ford crate engine. He’s leaning towards a new 347 stroker engine, aiming for a horsepower range of 300-400, while maintaining an automatic transmission. To improve fuel efficiency and reliability, the V8 Speed and Resto Shop Team will be installing a Ford 4R70W overdrive unit.

Focusing on Comfort and Safety

Since this Galaxie is intended for family cruising, the priority is to create a comfortable and safe driving experience. We’ll be adding Vintage Air air conditioning for enhanced climate control, along with a new radiator and heater core to address any existing leaks. Upgrading the power steering pump and lines is also on the list, ensuring a smoother driving experience.

Addressing Electrical Concerns

The V8 team has noticed that the headlights, brake lights, and turn signals appear dim, requiring some updates to the system.

Enhancing the Look and Feel

For a touch of classic style, the owner desires a new vintage-looking steering wheel. He’s also open to recommendations for suspension upgrades, aiming to improve the car’s handling without compromising its original character.

A Work in Progress

The owner acknowledges that the pictures he’s provided are just a starting point, and he’s open to further suggestions as the project progresses. With a clear vision and the assistance of qualified professionals, his Galaxie is well on its way to becoming a reliable and cool cruiser for the whole family to enjoy.

What’s In Your Garage?

Let us know how we can help morph your old car into a fun family cruising experience! Contact the V8 Speed and Resto Shop today to start the journey.

1963 Chevrolet Corvette Bodywork and Paint Repairs at the V8 Speed and Resto Shop

Posted on by V8 Staff

This iconic 1963 Corvette rolled into the V8 Speed and Resto Shop with a the fiberglass body needing some TLC. It’s riding on a custom chassis, and the owner enlisted our team to repair the cracked and damaged original fiberglass body with a new front section, perform other required bodywork, and give it a great looking new paint job. The cool Murray Komant Design rendering shows the plan.

What’s in store for this Corvette Roadster?

Fender Repair: We’ll meticulously address the fender’s imperfections, ensuring a seamless and like-new appearance.
Gap Adjustment: We’ll fine-tune the body panel gaps to achieve consistent and aesthetically pleasing spacing.
Stripping & Repainting: The old paint will be removed, revealing a clean canvas for a stunning new finish.
New Engine & Transmission: We’re adding over 500 HP of LS3 V8 power to make this Corvette Sing!

Stay tuned as we transform this 1963 Corvette into a beautiful roadster that is as pleasing to the eye as it is stirring to the soul. We’ll share progress photos and updates along the way, so you can witness the magic happening right here!

1963 Chevrolet Corvette Restomod at V8 Speed and Resto Shop

In the meantime, let us know in the comments below:

What’s color would you paint this cool Corvette?
What is your favorite generation of Corvette?

Follow Along with Build Photos and Videos Below!

🚀 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Roadster Re-Do: Bodywork and Paint Repairs at the V8 Speed and Resto Shop

🚀 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Roadster Re-Do Chapter 2: Bodywork Update at the V8 Speed and Resto Shop

🚀 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Roadster Re-Do Chapter 3: Adding a 525 Horsepower LS3 V8!

Body Shop Employment Opportunities: Now Hiring Auto Body Technician

Posted on by V8 Staff

The V8 Speed and Resto Shop Team has a body shop job opening! We have an Auto Body Technician for Restoration and Custom Cars at the V8 Speed and Resto Shop in Red Bud, IL!

Are you an experienced auto body repair technician? Are you passionate about breathing new life into classic cars? Do you have a keen eye for detail and a skill set that transforms vehicles into automotive masterpieces? If so, the V8 Speed and Resto Shop is looking for you! We are a renowned automotive restoration and customization shop with a great Team culture, competitive salaries, and outstanding benefits. We are seeking a talented and experienced Auto Body Technician to join our dynamic team.

Auto Body Technician Job Description:

As an Auto Body Technician specializing in restoration and custom cars, you will play a vital role in transforming vintage vehicles into works of art in our body shop. You will be responsible for a range of tasks, including bodywork, panel installation and fitment, minor ding / dent repair, fitting of trim, block sanding of fillers, and primers, and body assembly. Your expertise will help preserve the timeless beauty of classic cars while adding custom modifications to meet our clients’ unique visions. You will be a critical member of the team working to perfect our customers’ dream cars!

Technician Responsibilities:

Perform top-notch automotive body restoration, including body filler application, sanding, panel fitment, and installation on classics, customs, and muscle cars.
Test fit, modify, and perform final assembly on body panels, trim, and other exterior items.
Collaborate with our passionate team to ensure every project meets our high standards of quality.

Auto Body Technician Skills, Experience, and Job Requirements:

Proven experience as an Auto Body Technician, with a focus on restoration and customization.
In-depth knowledge of automotive bodywork and repair techniques.
Proficient in welding, metalworking, and fabrication for vehicle restoration.
A keen eye for detail and a commitment to delivering exceptional results.
Ability to work effectively as part of a team and independently on projects.
Strong problem-solving skills and a passion for overcoming challenges.
Excellent communication skills and a customer-centric approach.
Passion for custom cars and the automotive culture.

Join Our Enthusiastic Team!

If you have a deep love for classic cars, take pride in your craftsmanship, and possess the skills to elevate automotive restoration and customization, we want to hear from you! At V8 Speed and Resto Shop, you’ll have the opportunity to work on remarkable projects and collaborate with fellow automotive enthusiasts.

Fill Out Online Job Application Below!

To apply for this exciting opportunity, please click the application link below. We look forward to speaking with you and welcome an exceptional Auto Body Technician like you to our team!

About The V8 Speed and Resto Shop:

We value the well-being of our Team and their families above all else, and we all focus on generating the best employee and customer experience possible. Our core values center around the way we treat people and would like to be treated. We live and breathe classics, customs, restored and modified muscle cars, restomods, pro-touring cars, and more at the V8 Speed and Resto Shop. We take pride in meticulously restoring and customizing vintage vehicles, and our commitment to craftsmanship and attention to detail sets us apart in the industry. We understand the significance of these cars to their owners and treat them as such. Our team is composed of highly skilled professionals who share a common passion for automotive excellence.

V8 Speed and Resto Shop Purpose:

We believe in the importance of classic vehicles not only as historical objects, but for their personal significance to enthusiasts and their families, and for the joy they bring to the world.
We believe in the importance of the automobile industry as a workspace where people of all skill sets and in all areas of business can thrive working around special vehicles that ignite their passion.
We believe that dream cars can and do exist, and that our team is here to build them.

V8 Speed and Resto Shop Mission Statement:

To connect people with the best times of their lives through things with wheels.

Values Statement:

The V8 Speed and Resto Shop achieves our goals and the goals of our customers by applying the following core values to everything we do:

Happiness
Quality
Respect
Honesty
Loyalty
Teamwork
Passion
Innovation

V8 Speed and Resto Shop Vision Statement:

To ensure that automobile enthusiasts will always have a trusted, talented, and passionate source to provide services they need to enjoy their special vehicles.
To always provide a healthy, safe, creative, and respectful workplace where our team can enhance their skills and abilities and enjoy satisfying and rewarding careers.

LINK: ABOUT THE V8 SPEED AND RESTO SHOP

This Auto Body Technician job opening requires experience. This is not an entry level position.

This position requires big picture thinking and a great attitude.
This is a full-time position. Shop hours are 8-5 Monday – Friday (Technician Hours 7AM – 3:30PM optional)

This job opening provides many benefits. We provide paid health insurance – PPO Health, Dental, Vision insurance 75% company paid. Paid time off starts accruing on day 1. Paid Holidays, 401(k) 3% matching, Flexible schedule, Company Paid $50K Life insurance, Employee discounts on parts, Provide in-house and out of shop training.

Competitive salary based on experience.

The V8 Speed and Resto Shop is a great working environment with awesome teammates and lots of cool tools and equipment to grow your abilities. We have a backlog of work and are always looking to build better, more creative hot rods, customs, and muscle cars. We are located in a small, safe midwestern town of Red Bud Illinois.

If you want consistent, rewarding work every day, every week, building award winning show cars this is a job for you! We are hiring for this auto body shop job opening now.

Fill Out This Job Application To Schedule An Interview Today!

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The V8 Speed and Resto Shop is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The V8 Speed and Resto Shop does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.

1964 Ford Galaxie Restoration at the V8 Speed and Resto Shop

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This 1964 Ford Galaxie 500 XL rumbles thanks to a 460+ cubic inch 428 fed by two four barrel Holleys on top, and is shifted with a 4-speed manual transmission. The car came to the V8 Speed & Resto Shop for some basic maintenance, as well as bodywork and a repaint . Follow the progress here!

Primed For Perfection: The 1969 Corvette 427 Roadster Restoration at V8 Speed and Resto Shop

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We are thrilled to be working on the restoration of a very cool 1969 Chevrolet Corvette 427 Roadster. Our talented team has completed the bodywork, and we’ve just applied the first coats of primer. The next step? A stunning custom metallic blue paint job that will make this beauty truly shine! 🌟 Stay tuned for updates on this extraordinary project as we make this classic Corvette far nicer than it was when new. Follow along with us as we breathe new life into this iconic American sports car!

#Restoration #Corvette #V8SpeedAndResto #ClassicCar

See the restoration photos: https://v8speedshop.com/1969-chevrolet-corvette-jl/

Sparks Are Flying

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Metal melts and sparks fly as Tim repairs panels on a 1978 Pontiac Trans Am. A lot of labor and love goes into the bodywork of our restorations; knowing this is the most important part of the process…the foundation.

#v8speedandresto #transam #quality #fabrication #v8speedshop #musclecars #restoration