1968 Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu 307 V8
Summary:
Oldie, but a goody!
Faults:
The previous owner didn't have any problems, but the engine was "freshened-up" at 40,000mi. This included a high performance cam, main & rod bearings, and piston rings.
The carburetor was replaced, only because the car was stored for many years.
The motor and transmission mounts also got replaced with solid steel (Moroso) mounts.
The points ignition was replaced with a HEI style.
I replaced all tie rod ends, ball joints, A-arm bushings, trailing arm bushings, brake lines & hoses, master cylinder, and front wheel bearings. All of these parts went bad because the car sat for 20 years causing rubber to dry-rot and thin steel to rust.
General Comments:
When I purchased this car ($1200) it had been stored for 20 years. With a new battery and a can of fresh gas, I started the car and drove it onto my trailer.
After some basic maintenance and replacement parts, I drove the car down my street. I realized the 2 speed power glide wasn't what I wanted. The engine ran excellent, however the valve seals were bad.
I replaced the drive train with a stroked small block (383ci), and a TH350 transmission with a 2400rpm stall converter. With the car's 3.73 rear axle this makes for a great cruser. The old 307ci was actually a 327ci. That engine is still running in a '68 Chevy 4x4.
The car handles very well, if you don't mind the tires squealing through the turns, and lots of body roll.
The brakes are scary! Four corner manual drums are terrible. Especially while driving down long winding hills, they fade like crazy! I need to invest in stopping-power now.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 25th October, 2005