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

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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

1969 Chevrolet Camaro COMP Cams 40th Anniversary Restoration Video at V8 Speed & Resto Shop

Posted on by V8 Staff

The Legendary Comp Cams Camaro: A 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Reborn

The 1969 Chevrolet Camaro is a timeless icon, celebrated for its versatility and enduring appeal. Whether built stock, as a race car, pro-touring machine, or full custom, a ’69 Camaro always turns heads. At V8 Speed and Resto Shop, one particular ’69 Camaro convertible, known as the Comp Cams Camaro, holds a special place due to its rich history and remarkable revival.

A Storied Past

The Comp Cams Camaro traces its roots to the 1970s and 1980s when Scooter Brothers, founder of Comp Cams, campaigned a white ’69 Camaro convertible in NHRA drag racing. That original car was sold, but years later, Brothers sought to recreate it. The result was a white Camaro with black stripes, powered by a NASCAR-spec SB2 small-block V8. This car became a legend, featured in Hot Rod magazine, showcased on the Hot Rod Power Tour, and displayed at countless events.

One memorable tale from its travels involves the Camaro nearly escaping its trailer during a Power Tour stop, fish-tailing down the road while hanging by its header flanges. Though it was saved, years of heavy use at public events took a toll, leaving the car worn out.

A Second Life

To celebrate Comp Cams’ 40th anniversary, V8 Speed and Resto Shop was tasked with restoring this iconic car. Known for building high-performance ’69 Camaro convertibles, including one for Royal Purple Synthetic Oil, our team was ready to bring the Comp Cams Camaro back to life. Comp Cams, a leader in valve train technology with brands like RHS, FAST, and TCI, wanted the car to showcase their cutting-edge products while remaining instantly recognizable.

The Build

The restoration began with a plan to preserve the car’s identity while enhancing its performance and appearance. The car, a real RS Camaro with hideaway headlights and low-mounted reverse lights, was originally Daytona Yellow but had been painted white. We retained the white base with black stripes, adding a red pinstripe matching the Comp Cams logo’s Pantone color for a subtle branding touch.

The body required minor repairs—rust patches in the floors, trunk, and quarter panels were addressed with precision to preserve the original shell. Suspension upgrades included a Heidts front subframe, tubular control arms, Wilwood brakes, CCW wheels, and a Ford 9-inch rear axle with Heidts four-link brackets for superior handling.

1969 Camaro COMP CAMS restored by V8 Speed and Resto Shop

Under the hood, Butler Performance built a 454-cubic-inch LS engine using an RHS aluminum block, RHS cylinder heads, an LSXR intake manifold, and Comp Cams valvetrain components. A FAST XFI EFI system and EASY LS/TCU controllers manage the engine and TCI 6X six-speed automatic transmission, delivering 690 horsepower naturally aspirated, with a ZEX nitrous kit for extra punch. A custom aluminum air filter box, designed to fit the tight engine bay, ensures fresh air intake while adding a sleek look.

The interior blends classic and modern with houndstooth bucket seats, Dakota Digital gauges, a TCI shifter, and a Vintage Air Gen 4 AC system with electronic controls for a factory-like appearance. A reduced-diameter billet steering wheel and hand-bent stainless exhaust complete the package, giving the car a commanding presence.

The Result

The reborn Comp Cams Camaro is a masterpiece of performance and style, built to be driven hard and enjoyed for years. Delivered to Comp Cams, it made a flawless 4.5-hour drive to Memphis, and since then, it has racked up nearly 7,000 miles. The car has starred at SEMA, the Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals (scoring 997/1,000 points), the Rev’n Rods Tour, the Car Craft Pro Builder Shootout, and the Good Guys Top 50 ’69 Camaros display.

A Legacy That Endures

The Comp Cams Camaro is more than a car—it’s a testament to passion, craftsmanship, and performance. Its journey from drag strip warrior to restored icon showcases the dedication of both Comp Cams and V8 Speed and Resto Shop. Check out the full build at v8speedshop.com or spot it at an event like the Hot Rod Power Tour. If you’re dreaming of reviving your own classic, we’d love to bring it to life!

Watch The Build Video!

Speaking Of Camaro Videos… Here’s A Few More Built at V8 Speed and Resto:

Let’s Build Yours!

Reach us anytime at the V8 Speed and Resto Shop to chat about reviving your dream car!

V8 SPEED & RESTO SHOP

817 S. MAIN STREET – RED BUD, IL 62278

All The 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

5.4 Supercharged Restomod 1967 Ford Mustang Fastback at V8 Speed and Resto Shop

Posted on by V8 Staff

This stunning 1967 Ford Mustang Fastback isn’t your average classic muscle car.

Supercharged Restomod 1967 Mustang Fastback Gets the V8 Speed & Resto Shop Treatment

Packing a supercharged 5.4-liter V8 engine from a 2008 Shelby GT500, this restomod is a force to be reckoned with on the road and the track.

Power and Performance Under the Hood

The heart of this beast is the iconic 5.4-liter Shelby GT500 V8 engine, pushing out over 500 horsepower. Paired with a T56 6-speed transmission, this Mustang is built for exhilarating performance.

Check Out The Video!

Upgraded Suspension and Brakes for Precision Handling

For superior handling, the suspension system has been completely revamped with Ridetech tubular components and coilover shocks. Four-corner Baer disc brakes provide exceptional stopping power, while American Racing 200S “Daisy” wheels add a touch of classic muscle car style.

Luxurious Interior with Modern Touches

Step inside the Fastback and you’ll find a custom-crafted interior featuring plush leather-wrapped seats and a custom console. The classic dashboard gets a modern upgrade with Autometer gauges, keeping the driver informed and in control.

Vinyl Wrap Protects the Show-Stopping Finish

One of the most unique features of this Mustang is its exterior. Believe it or not, that stunning finish isn’t paint! The entire car is wrapped in a high-quality vinyl film. This clever choice protects the owner’s investment, allowing them to enjoy pushing this Mustang to its limits on the track without worrying about scratches or damage.

Looking for Classic Car Restoration or Customization?

The V8 Speed & Resto Shop is your one-stop shop for all things classic and muscle car. They offer a full range of services, from routine maintenance to complete frame-off restorations and custom builds. Whether you’re looking to preserve a piece of automotive history or create a one-of-a-kind restomod like this stunning 1967 Mustang, the V8 Speed & Resto Shop has the expertise and passion to bring your vision to life.

Contact The V8 Speed & Resto Shop Today

Let the crew at V8 Speed & Resto Shop turn your dream classic car into reality. Visit their website at https://v8speedshop.com/ or call them at 314-783-8325.

Don’t forget to follow V8 Speed & Resto Shop on social media!

Facebook: https://v8speedshop.com/completed-car-videos/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/v8speedandresto/?hl=en
V8 Radio Podcast: https://v8speedshop.com/series/v8-radio-podcast/

#Mustang #V8SpeedShop #Fastback

Enjoy the photo gallery on this Supercharged Restomod Mustang!

Fuel Injected 427 Big Block Personality Change for a 1967 Chevrolet Camaro RS Convertible at the V8 Speed and Resto Shop

Posted on by V8 Staff

There’s just something about the numbers 427 to a Muscle Car fan.

This very clean 1967 Chevrolet Camaro RS/SS convertible recently came to the V8 Speed and Resto Shop in need of a heart transplant. Although it had a 396 under the hood, it was pretty anemic. Like most of us, the owner wanted more power, so the V8 Speed team upped the ante with a new Chevrolet Performance ZZ427.

1967 Chevrolet Camaro RS/SS Convertible 427 Upgrade at V8 Speed and Resto Shop

427 Cubes of Attitude Adjustment!

This all-new ZZ427 is a 480 horsepower big block Chevy V8, just waiting to transform the Camaro’s personality. A Vintage Air Frontrunner accessory drive and A/C system keep everything cool up front and inside the car, and the V8 crew topped the 427 with a Holley Terminator Stealth EFI system and a slew of other items to make it sing.

More Sport for the Rally Sport

The Camaro is a real RS car, born in the same black exterior and parchment interior colors you see here. It has some cool options, like the rally gauge package in the console and the headrests topping the bucket seats. However, this one is not all stock, by any stretch. In addition to that thumping 427, you’ll find a 5-speed manual transmission in place of the original 4-speed, and tubular suspension and coil-over springs and shocks for better handling. The wheels look right, but they are upsized billet aluminum Chevy Rally style wheels wrapped in custom modern redline tires from Diamondback Classics. These are a great choice for any restomod Camaro.

1967 Chevrolet Camaro Intro Video at V8 Speed and Resto Shop

Hidden In Plain Sight

The Holley Terminator Stealth fuel injection system looks almost exactly like a Holley double pumper carb, but offers better starting, instant response, and modern fuel and timing control that can’t be matched by a carburetor. The 427 utilizes aluminum heads and a full roller cam valvetrain, so the risk of flattening a lobe or trashing a lifter is negated. We always like to build tasteful restomods here at the V8 Speed and Resto Shop. If you’ve got a Camaro or any other Muscle Car that needs some love, we’re happy to chat about it! You can reach us at https://www.v8speedshop.com/contact-us today.

Check Out The Build Photo Gallery of this Sweet 1967 Camaro RS

This isn’t your typical SPAM. It’s Gearhead Gold!

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This isn’t your typical SPAM. It’s Gearhead Gold!

The V8 “VMail” Newsletter is the best place for our latest videos, V8 Radio Podcasts, photo gallery updates of the cars we’re building in the V8 Speed and Resto Shop, and much more. Fill out the box and join today!

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Topless Treasure: A 1972 Oldsmobile 442 Convertible Gets Ready for Summer Fun at V8 Speed and Resto!

Posted on by V8 Staff

Sunshine, open roads, and a wind-in-your-hair cruise – that’s the dream for any classic car enthusiast, and that’s exactly what the proud owner of this stunning 1972 Oldsmobile 442 Convertible has in mind. But before hitting the pavement, he entrusted the experts at V8 Speed and Resto Shop to whip this beauty into tip-top shape for the season.

This isn’t your average muscle car. The 1972 442 Convertible is a legend, a symbol of an era when cruising in style was king. And this particular example, with its sleek lines and open-air freedom, is sure to turn heads wherever it goes.

But even legends need a little TLC sometimes. That’s where our team of restoration specialists comes in. We’re taking a close look at every detail, ensuring this 442 looks and performs its best. Whether it’s a minor touch-up or a more in-depth repair, we’re dedicated to getting this classic ready to cruise.

But we’re not keeping all the fun to ourselves! We’ll be sharing every step of the process right here in our photo gallery. From the initial inspection to the final polish, you’ll get a front-row seat to see this 1972 beauty come back to life.

So buckle up, gearheads, and get ready for a journey down memory lane with a modern twist. We can’t wait to show you what this 442 Convertible looks like when it’s ready to hit the road – and maybe even give you a little inspiration for your own classic car project. What color would your ideal drop-top be? Share in the comments below!

1957 Chevrolet Bel Air Holley EFI Tuning and Maintenance at the V8 Speed and Resto Shop

Posted on by V8 Staff

Tuning a classic.

This 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air arrived at the V8 Speed and Resto Shop on a trailer due to running issues after an EFI conversion. It is a classic beauty – its striking red exterior, complemented by a white top and original style upholstery, exudes the timeless charm of a ’57 model. With a recent small block Chevy engine nestled under the hood, this car is poised to deliver an exhilarating driving experience once all the necessary adjustments are made.

The V8 Speed and Resto Shop team is factory Holley trained on electronic fuel injection systems. This means that the beloved ’57 Chevy Bel Air is in capable hands, ensuring that it receives the precise care and attention required to address its concerns. As the restoration journey unfolds, the photo gallery below captures every moment of the ’57s visit to the shop, providing a glimpse into the meticulous craftsmanship and dedication that goes into reviving automotive legends.

Contact the V8 Speed and Resto Shop To Upgrade Or Restore Your Classic, Custom, Hot Rod, or Muscle Car!

Strike A Pose: The 1969 Chevrolet Camaro ZR9 Steals The Spotlight

Posted on by V8 Staff

A rare moment when the 1969 Chevrolet Camaro “ZR9” is standing still and posing for a glamour shot! This pro-touring Camaro was a big project, with an all-new body and a MAST Motorsports 840 HP RHS 427 topped with an LS9 supercharger. It features a full custom leather and carbon fiber interior, Detroit Speed suspension, Forgeline wheels, Magnaflow Exhaust, Baer Brakes, a Tremec T56 Magnum 6-speed, and a lot more… but the Jetstream Blue color is one of the highlights. We were honored to build the car at the V8 Speed and Resto Shop, and the owner has had it over 167 MPH on an open road outside of the USA!

Complete build photo gallery: https://v8speedshop.com/ZR9

#builttodrive #protouring #camaro

Dashing Through The Fabrication Shop in a 1968 Oldsmobile 442 at the V8 Speed and Resto Shop Video

Posted on by V8 Staff

Check out the skilled craftsmanship happening at the V8 Speed and Resto Shop! 🔥 Our talented fabrication team is hard at work welding in a brand new dashboard into a super-cool 1968 Oldsmobile 442. This one sits on a Roadster Shop chassis but retains its original appearance.

One of the challenges was to repair the rusty dashboard, but without the support of a reproduction panel made specifically for Oldsmobiles. The solution – adapt a Chevelle piece, mating it to the Olds dash to retain the Olds speaker grille and vents while eliminating the rust. The fresh new dashboard is a combination of Chevelle parts and custom-made pieces, replacing the rusty original. The result is a seamless panel that looks like we were never there.

Stay tuned for more updates on this sweet restomod project. We can’t wait to unveil the finished ride! 🏁✨ #V8SpeedandRestoShop #MuscleCarRestoration #FabricationTeam #ClassicCarRevival

1968 Oldsmobile 442 Dashboard Replacement at V8 Speed and Resto Shop

1968 Oldsmobile 442 original rusty dashboard

1968 Oldsmobile 442 Dashboard fabrication

1968 Oldsmobile 442 new dashboard welded in

See the entire build photo gallery here!