59 Bel Air Redux..........The Reacher

[NAPA 68]

I'll see if there is some interest in my latest project. I purchased this 59 Bel Air about 9 years ago. It was an original Texas car with 80k on it. It is an original paint, interior and drivetrain car. I wanted to build a nice driver that I would not fuss over.

As of current, it has an LS1, 4L60E, Ford 9", Ridetech coil over suspension front and rear, and 4 wheel disc brakes. It's been a great car to bang around in. My wife and I have enjoyed the car immensely, but my tastes have changed a bit as well as my expectations from my cars. I am sick of 2pc driveshafts and a frame that has the rigidity of noodles. So...............having said that...........it's time to blow it apart for the next phase.

I will keep the original paint, and the overall look of the car won't change much. I'll even see how much of the original interior I elect to maintain. That's where it stops. My goal is to improve the car in these areas.

-Handling. A nice stiff chassis to take the squeaks and rattles out of the car and maintain a great ride quality. Not that I plan to autocross this, there is definitely room for improvement. I am thinking a 12" wide rear tire which may require mini tubs. 10" wide rubber in the front.

-Braking. It stops well now, it can be better. An engineered chassis and brake system will improve overall braking and thus predictability. I'll be limited in brakes as I am going to maintain a 15" wheel so I have no issue with the hardcore 1964 and earlier events. (I'll just keep the hood closed)

-Comfort. Vintage Air HVAC as well as revisiting the seats. I am wanting to keep the bench seats and the overall feel of the interior. Modern foam in the seat so as I feel a bit more "planted" while in it. I suppose there may be some mods to the seat frame so I can get some lumbar support and perhaps a bit better ergonomics. We will see there. LOTS of sound deadener!

-Power. Here is the subject I have been struggling with. My inner cheap speaks LS3 to me.............................my inner child screams LT4! The jury is still out but I am leaning to the LT4.

-Theme. The theme wont necessarily change much. I want a car that looks like it got parked in the mid 60's, and then recommissioned recently. My original vision was a car that could have been parked around Gasoline Alley in mid May of 63-65.


On the docket........................

1. Roadster Shop chassis
2. GM Connect & Cruise power
3. Refinish the underside and engine compartment to the standards of a modern build. I am drawn to the Stielow OE feel and sensibility (sorry if it sounds a bit creepy and stalker like Mark!)

What I started with years ago............









As I write this before I start disassembly.....................