The journey of restoring a 1968 Chevy Camaro continues as parts like OEM rear window trim and a TH400 transmission are sourced, ensuring a successful build.
Project Cheap Camaro has definitely consumed a significant amount of time and energy as I continue to make strides in restoring this classic muscle car. The obsession, if we can call it that, is far from ordinary; it's a labor of love that often invades my thoughts outside the garage. Whether you're deep in the throes of car restoration or just an enthusiast seeking knowledge, you know that every piece and part matters.
As I move through this project, the search for the right components becomes as crucial as the hands-on work itself, compelling me to glance at various marketplaces during quiet evenings, always in pursuit of parts needed for the completion of this Camaro. While many might consider this simple madness, I see a method to the chaos—a method that allows me to visualize the final outcome.
Fit Check!
Reflecting back on my welding escapades, I remember the challenges posed by the quarter panel fitting. Initially, I had received questionable replacement full quarter panels that, at first glance, fit inconsistently. The significant concern was that I lacked the rear window trim necessary for verifying the fitment against the curvature of the body where the new quarters met the roof. The realization struck that without this trim, I wouldn't see any issues until the car was painted, leaving little room for error in achieving that signature Camaro silhouette.
While sanding down the high-build primer during the day, my focus at night turned to tracking down OEM rear window trim online. After tirelessly searching, the age-old mantra of patience was once again reaffirmed. Original trim pieces were not easily found despite the popularity of the first-gen Camaro, and reproductions just wouldn’t serve my purpose.
The breakthrough occurred thanks to a serendipitous call from my dad, who identified some rear window trim listed on Marketplace. For a mere $100, it appeared genuine and worth checking out. A mini road trip led to a meeting with a seller who, interestingly enough, specialized in Mopar parts but happened to have obtained Camaro trim along the way. The stainless piece was in great condition, and I quickly secured it for my project.
Upon returning home, it became clear that the curvature of the Camaro's body needed meticulous adjustments. Mounting the trim to the vehicle revealed discrepancies that had to be rectified before any paint could be applied. Gaps had formed where the roof met the quarters, a critical detail that could lead to a subpar finish if left unaddressed. Thankfully, with the car still in primer, I could make the necessary repairs before the paint job, ensuring everything lined up perfectly.
Picking Up Speed
This initial success fueled my motivation as I delved further into sourcing parts necessary for the Camaro's completion. Next on my list was an oil pan for the 427 big-block engine, which had suffered a mishap during the previous stages of the project. However, after extensive local searches yielded no results, I shifted my focus to a crucial component: a transmission.
Given that the Camaro was initially a manual transmission model, I aimed to transition it to an automatic for a smoother driving experience, especially considering my wife’s preferences. Thus, I started hunting for a GM Turbo-Hydramatic 400 (TH400), an automatic transmission known for its reliability and robustness.
The TH400, in production since 1964, became well-regarded but saw its production cease in the 1990s. As such, most available units come from old trucks or motorhomes, both of which have their own challenges when it comes to sourcing quality parts. The market provided a myriad of variations of the TH400, complicating the search even further.
After much patience, I discovered a TH400 listed by a familiar seller, Lonnie, who ran an auto shop named Carolina Customs. Priced at $200, the transmission came with the annotation of being a low-mileage unit. With optimism lingering about its condition, I eagerly made my way to his shop.
Lonnie informed me that the transmission had been removed from a Chevelle, linked to a failure in the engine but reported as functioning well. The fluid still appeared in good condition, and he included a torque converter with a stall speed fit for high-performance use. Such components could better optimize the Camaro's capability when paired with the 427 engine.
Transporting the TH400 back home, I examined it closely to determine its condition. Noticing the ID tag indicated it had once served behind a 396 big-block, I felt a rush of satisfaction knowing that I had secured a pertinent piece for my project. The story and condition could lead to a successful integration into the build, though the likelihood of needing a rebuild loomed.
Chasing Bits
The search didn’t end with the TH400; I needed an intake manifold to optimize the performance of the 427 engine. I quickly learned that while many alternatives existed, the specific Edelbrock Performer RPM oval-port intake manifold was scarce. The hunt truly began in earnest as I traversed the region, crossing into Washington to meet a seller named Joanna who had the piece listed.
After securing the intake for $100, requiring some cleanup and sandblasting, I continued my quest for other components, including a transmission crossmember specific for the TH400, which I got from another seller named Steve, alongside some associated cooler lines for $125.
Throughout this scavenger hunt for the Camaro, I've navigated all corners of the Portland Metro area, meeting various sellers with connections to the muscle car scene. The hours spent hunting for these parts may seem perplexing to others, but they’re all vital puzzle pieces in creating a complete and well-functioning classic muscle car.
With plans for a powerful yet elegant machine, I'm well aware that the thrill of putting everything together will soon come, including the moment the Camaro finds itself roaring back to life. Once that day arrives, all the effort put into sourcing each original component will become a measure of pride and accomplishment. It's in these moments of driving bliss that not only will I find joy, but so will my wife, making it all the more rewarding.
As I continue to document this process and gather more parts, I remain committed to this classic car restoration project, fully engaged in the journey ahead. One thing’s for sure: the community around classic cars is as passionate as the projects themselves. In time, this 1968 Camaro will not just be a restoration of metal and paint; it will be a part of shared adventures and celebrated moments to come.
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