The short block received a slight hone with a dingleberry, new bearings, cast rings, oil pump, timing set, and ARP bolts . The stock cast iron intake was dumped in favor of a GM Performance Parts single plane unit. A set of tubular heads replaced the ramhorns, where exhaust gases flow through 2 " exhaust with turbo mufflers. A set of used Cragar SS 15" wheels with BFG rubber laying around unused used for traction. Spark is issued via a period correct Accel dual point distributor and Accel wires. A Sunpro tach and oil pressure gauge were added to keep tabs on what's going on under the hood. Backing up the Muncie M21 is a NAPA stock replacement clutch and flywheel. A new stock style 6 cylinder radiator replaced the original Harrison unit which leaked uncontrollably. We spent a little less than two grand making the changes and they reflect the only alterations to the vehicle since 1972.
After firing the engine and breaking it in, my dad drove the car out of the shop; it was the first time I witnessed the car moving under its own power. Next it was my turn.
Goosebumps scattered across the length of my arms as I shifted the Muncie into 1st gear. Moments of dejavu flashed before my eyes, remembering the age when my feet would not reach the pedals and how much I longed to drive the car my dad revered.
After a few miles down the nearest two lane road and several 6,000 rpm blasts, I pulled it back inside and called it a night.
When the new tag and proper insurance were added to make the car legitimate on the street, it seemed as though my short life had come full circle. The mystery surrounding this vehicle had finally been solved. It was a time machine. This car was a rare and unique object able to take me back to my childhood or to nostalgic days of hotrodding when I was not part of this earth. At any moment from now on, I can blast down the highway in a patina etched car with drum brakes, no air conditioning, 4-speed transmission, and a high-winding 327. Total bliss.
Where did you find your passion for hotrodding? Still Runnin Magazine asked. Mine began the summer of 1986 when I was six years old playing in the front seat of 1955 Chevrolet 210 coupe and going absolutely nowhere.
PS. Dad, thanks for showing me the ropes of hotrodding. I hope one day to pass the same torch onto my son. You have always been my best friend and hero.
With all my heart- Gabe
