Donnie Gates '67 Malibu


 

  Year: 1967

  Model: Chevelle Malibu

  Type: Hardtop Coupe

  Engine: 350 C.I.D.

  Transmission: Turbo 400

  Rear End: 10 bolt with 331 gears

  Paint: Light Chestnut Metallic

  Interior: Granada Gold


Donnie acquired this Chevelle in the Summer of '78 for a negotiated price of $600.  In January of 1989, the car was trailered to Beartown Autobody in Waynesboro, Pennsylvania, where it was stripped to bare metal.  N.O.S. GM front fenders and left rear quarter panel were installed.  It was painted with 3 coats of light chestnut metallic Imron and topped with 3 coats of clear.  The interior was restored back to its original stock configuration except for the installation of a set of bucket seats (from a 67 SS), a B&M Starshifter, a Pioneer AM/FM stereo and a set of aftermarket gauges.  New carpeting, headliner, and interior chrome completed the new look.

The Chevelle is now powered by a fresh 11:1 350 (balanced and blueprinted) small block.  On top rests a Weiend tunnel ram and twin Holly 600's.  Inside the motor resides a Competition Cam 292 Magnum camshaft, lifters and roller rockers.  Screw-in studs, push rod guide plates and many other quality TRW parts were installed to complete the package (rings, pistons, bearings, etc.).

The 2-speed powerglide was replaced with a rebuilt Turbo 400 transmission.  A B&M shift kit and 10" Super Hole Shot torque converter help to make those nice, crisp shifts.  The stock 331 10 bolt rear will soon be replaced with a 355 12 bolt Posi. acquired from a 67 SS Chevelle.

The original documentation came with the car including the infamous "protect-o-plate".  Donnie's Chevelle is now garaged 24/7 and is shown whenever possible.