Bob Dyson’s 1971 El Camino “A Project Masterpiece”
Have you ever worked on a car that started out as a bucket of bolts or, as club member Bob Dyson described his 1971 El Camino, "a real junker"? There are many Chevelle and El Camino "project" cars in the Club and this one is truly a beauty.
Bob worked on his project for over 3 years, replacing the original 350 CI with a 383 CI stroker with a Holley 650 double-pumper and MSD ignition system and lots of other "go fast" stuff.
The stroker engine was built to Bob's specs including being blue-printed and balanced. The stock M-21 4-speed transmission and clutch were replaced with a Tremac 5-speed OD transmission and a Centerforce 2 clutch. The differential is a 3.31 12 bolt posi-traction rear end and on the freeway at 80 MPH the engine is turning 2,300 RPM and getting 16 MPG.
The custom interior was completed by A&A Top & Trim of San Francisco and it looks great, WOW!
The engine dynos out at 420 HP at 5,800 RPM producing 460 ft-lbs of torque. The suspension is a Hotchkis (adjustable) upper and lower arms with KYB shocks and sway bars. Hey Bob, how do you keep this car going down the road straight?
We end this article with a picture of the driver's side front wheel and tire. Bob says that can't seem to keep a set of rear tires on his car - they always seem to wear out before the warranty expires. But then, that's what big toys for big boys is all about. Thank you Bob for your great story.
If you are a member of the NOR-CAL club, you too can have your car featured here. Visit our Contact Info page and get in touch ... we'll even help with the pictures if need be!