Proud new owner : 1966 Chevy II SS
1 - 20 of 47 Posts
Joined
·
14,138 Posts
I don't think I've ever come across a 3 speed manual L77. As Dave mentioned, it's your car to do with as you want. If it's substantially original, I'd be inclined to not mess with it too much, but that's the way I lean
.
Bob
.Bob
I understand completely , if I do decide to convert to a 4 speed, I have a factory original hump, console, steering column and shifter. I’d keep cutout for hole and all parts. I will drive and enjoy for now. I’d appreciate more thoughtsI don't think I've ever come across a 3 speed manual L77. As Dave mentioned, it's your car to do with as you want. If it's substantially original, I'd be inclined to not mess with it too much, but that's the way I lean
Bob
Ralley are coming off. I’m going original Bias ply 14 x 6.95 and 66 mag style hub caps. Carb, distributor , exhaust system , alternator and heat choke tube are not correct. Those are all definitely getting changed back correctly.
Joined
·
3,763 Posts
One more comment: When I began driving (well, legally...) in '65, both of our family cars were 'three-on-the-tree' models. One was a '51 Chevy that my dad later traded-in on our first Nova - a '66 SS with the L30 and a 4-speed. A few years ago, when I was searching for an older cruiser, I looked at quite a few different cars; but really wanted another stock '51 - which I eventually found (link below).
One of the things that makes the '51 really enjoyable for me is taking younger people for rides. Most of them have never before experienced a car with a 'column shift' and are usually fascinated by the lay-out. I like it because it adds to the trip-back-in-time feeling of driving a car 'the way they used to be'!
One of the things that makes the '51 really enjoyable for me is taking younger people for rides. Most of them have never before experienced a car with a 'column shift' and are usually fascinated by the lay-out. I like it because it adds to the trip-back-in-time feeling of driving a car 'the way they used to be'!
Joined
·
4,100 Posts
I'd copy most responses too on leaving the 3-speed. Looks to be a very original car and super rare with that combination. I personally like 3-speed column shifts on a Nova, and even more prefer keeping the cars original if they have survived well this long. Great looking car, and pretty unique for its options! If you are a mind to do it, why not post some pics of the engine, especially if it's still in pretty original condition.
I know they made '49-'54 Chevrolets with powerglides, but I can't imagine them being anything but 3-speeds. My dad bought new '51, '53 and '54 Chevrolets when he was young and in the chips--all 3 on the tree cars. Just seems to fit with how I think of those great Chevrolets, and love your '51
I know they made '49-'54 Chevrolets with powerglides, but I can't imagine them being anything but 3-speeds. My dad bought new '51, '53 and '54 Chevrolets when he was young and in the chips--all 3 on the tree cars. Just seems to fit with how I think of those great Chevrolets, and love your '51
Joined
·
14,138 Posts
Just a suggestion that before you install bias ply tires, find a car so equipped and drive it. You won't believe how awful they are after driving on radials. I know of several owners who put original type bias ply tires on their cars and almost immediately switched back to radials. There are some radials out there now that have the bias ply look. Might be worth checking out.
Bob
Ok , good advice. It’s all about the look for me. Can you lead me the right direction for that ?
Joined
·
14,138 Posts
1 - 20 of 47 Posts
Join the discussion
Join now to ask and comment!