Tom Rightler's '70 SS

    Year: 1970

  Model: SS

  Type: Hardtop

  Engine: 454 C.I.D.

  Transmission: Turbo 400

  Rear End: 12 Bolt 410

  Paint: Fathom Blue Metallic

  Interior: Black

This car started out as a total basket case.  Tom bought it in Feb of 1998.  The restoration began by tearing down the entire car until no nut, bolt, or screw was left.  He then removed the body from the frame.  The frame was fitted on to a rotisserie lift so that he could tear down the front end, clean, rustproof, and repaint the frame.  After that, all new steering linkage and high performance suspension were installed, along with a fresh GM 12 bolt posi rear with 4.10 gears.  When the frame was completed, all attention turned to the body.  It received a new trunk floor, new 1/4 panel skins, new outer wheelhouses and some minor patches on the floor.  The car was sanded down to bare metal, all undercoating underneath was removed, and the bottom of the body was rust proofed and painted black.  The firewall was refinished to the factory original black.  The body was then reseated on the frame and sent out for paint.  When he brought her back home, the interior was installed.  All seats have been recovered, dash was cleaned, all wiring was taken apart, checked for shorts, and rewrapped.  The fresh 454, TH400 were then dropped into place, exhaust installed and then came time to fire it up for the first time.  After that the car received a few minor adjustments (timing, fuel mixture), an alignment and then hit the pavement.  This restoration was completed on April 2000, 2 years and 2 months well spent.  It can be seen at most local car shows in the Gloucester & Camden County areas as well as any other areas in South Jersey and even Maryland at times.