1972 Chevy El Camino 5 Speed – Resto-Mod

Owner: Joe O’Callaghan
1972 Chevy El Camino 5 Speed – Resto-Mod | Orinda Classic Car Center1972 Chevy El Camino – Resto-Mod | Orinda Classic Car Center image 111972 Chevy El Camino – Resto-Mod | Orinda Classic Car Center image 21972 Chevy El Camino – Resto-Mod | Orinda Classic Car Center image 31972 Chevy El Camino – Resto-Mod | Orinda Classic Car Center image 41972 Chevy El Camino – Resto-Mod | Orinda Classic Car Center image 51972 Chevy El Camino – Resto-Mod | Orinda Classic Car Center image 61972 Chevy El Camino – Resto-Mod | Orinda Classic Car Center image 71972 Chevy El Camino – Resto-Mod | Orinda Classic Car Center image 81972 Chevy El Camino – Resto-Mod | Orinda Classic Car Center image 91972 Chevy El Camino – Resto-Mod | Orinda Classic Car Center image 10

Work Performed:

  • General Inspection to assess condition of vehicle
  • Pulled engine out of vehicle to perform tear down, replace components, and reseal : (new crankshaft, main & rod bearings, gaskets, fabricated fuel hoses, engine mounts, coolant hoses, starter, water pump, alternator & brackets, oil pump & screen, harmonic balancer, HEI distributor & rotor, overflow tank, PCV Valve, spark plugs, belts, oil pan & high performance rear main seal)
  • Upgraded to 5 Speed Manual Transmission : (new driveshaft, yoke, linkage rod, shifter stick, Q Ball style shifter, speedo adapter, speedo gear, modified floor pan, clutch kit and bearings)
  • Rebuilt and upgraded front & rear suspension : (Tubular control arms, springs, shocks, sway bar, spindles)
  • Rebuilt and upgraded steering system : (power steering hoses, center link, idler arm, tie rods and sleeve, coupler discs, gear box)
  • Cooling system upgrade : (radiator, electric fans, fittings, hoses, thermostat)
  • HVAC upgrades & repair : (blower motor, fabricated A/C line, interior HVAC vents, A/C compressor)
  • Interior bucket seat upgrade
  • Custom wheel alignment
  • Custom exhaust system
  • Tune fuel injection system
  • Battery tray & hold down clamps
  • OE low tone horn
  • Antenna install
  • Ignition lock cylinder replacement

Briefly about the project

Joe purchased this 1972 El Camino with the intention of using it as a driver. He came to us at the classic car center with a goal in mind, after we assessed the vehicle and talked over what it needed along with what Joe wanted we came up with a plan. One that has completely restored and upgraded his El Camino to put a smile on his face every time he drives it. From overhauling nearing every system on the vehicle to adding bucket seats this El Camino is a head turner and performer that wants to be driven with its modern and analog characteristics. Whether its rowing gears in the new 5 speed manual transmission listening to the overhauled V8 engine with its custom exhaust, or staying cool with A/C on a hot day, this El Camino is not the same vehicle that rolled out in 1972.