The Legend Reborn
From forgotten relic to road-worthy classic - the completed restoration
The Grand Unveiling
After countless hours in the garage, numerous challenges overcome, and more than a few moments of doubt, the day finally arrived. The 1964 Corvair restoration was complete, and it was time for the grand unveiling.
I can't wait to drive it again. The anticipation of that first drive has been building throughout the entire restoration process, and now that moment was here.
As I pulled the cover off the freshly restored Corvair, the sunlight caught its gleaming Monza Yellow paint, highlighting every curve and contour of this classic American beauty. What was once a forgotten, rusted shell was now a stunning example of automotive history, ready to cruise the backroads once more.
The trials and tribulations just increase the value of the reward you feel in the end. And what a reward it is - a fully restored, road-ready 1964 Corvair convertible that turns heads wherever it goes.
The Transformation
See the dramatic before and after comparisons that showcase the extent of this restoration journey.
Exterior Front View
Before 
After Exterior Rear View
Before 
After Interior Dashboard
Before 
After Engine Compartment
Before 
After The Maiden Voyage
The moment of truth arrived - the first drive after the restoration. With a mixture of excitement and nervousness, I slid my large frame into the driver's seat, adjusted the mirrors, and turned the key.
The flat-six engine roared to life with a sound that was music to my ears. After a few moments to warm up, I eased the Corvair into first gear and pulled out of the garage for the first time in decades.
The sensation was indescribable. The car that had been a lifeless shell when I found it was now purring along the forest roads, responding to every input with enthusiasm. The steering was tight, the brakes responsive, and the engine pulled strongly through the gears.
As I cruised along winding back roads, the wind in my fur and the sun on my face, I couldn't help but feel a profound sense of accomplishment. This wasn't just a car restoration; it was the resurrection of a piece of automotive history, a testament to perseverance and craftsmanship.
The smiles and waves from other drivers and pedestrians confirmed what I already knew - this Corvair was special, a rolling piece of art that brought joy to all who saw it.
The Final Specifications
While staying true to the original design and character of the 1964 Corvair, I made a few carefully considered upgrades to enhance reliability, safety, and enjoyment without compromising authenticity.
Engine & Drivetrain:
- Rebuilt 2.7L flat-six engine (164 cubic inches)
- Upgraded to higher compression pistons for improved performance
- Dual Weber carburetors for better fuel delivery
- Four-speed manual transmission with rebuilt synchros
- New clutch assembly with lighter flywheel
Suspension & Brakes:
- Fully rebuilt suspension with polyurethane bushings
- Adjustable spring plates for proper ride height
- Front sway bar for improved handling
- Upgraded dual-circuit brake system for safety
- New brake lines, hoses, and hardware throughout
Exterior:
- Original Monza Yellow paint (factory correct)
- New convertible top with glass rear window
- Restored chrome and brightwork
- Period-correct 13" wheels with new whitewall tires
- All new weatherstripping and seals
Interior & Electrical:
- Restored original gauges and controls
- New upholstery in factory-correct pattern and color
- Hidden modern audio system with Bluetooth
- Completely new wiring harness
- Upgraded to alternator charging system
- LED lighting for improved visibility and reliability
Wisdom from the Woods
Every restoration project is a journey of discovery, not just about the vehicle being restored, but about oneself. Here are some of the key lessons I learned along the way:
Patience is More Than a Virtue - It's a Necessity
I wanted to give up on numerous occasions as it seemed much of the progress was one step forward and then two steps back. Learning to embrace the setbacks as part of the journey was perhaps the most valuable lesson of all.
Documentation is Your Future Self's Best Friend
The meticulous photos, notes, and labeled bags of fasteners I created during disassembly saved countless hours of frustration during reassembly. Never underestimate the value of thorough documentation.
Community Knowledge is Invaluable
The Corvair community, though initially startled by a Sasquatch in their midst, proved to be an incredible resource of knowledge, encouragement, and even rare parts. No restoration happens in isolation.
Quality Tools Make All the Difference
Investing in proper tools, especially those specific to the Corvair, made difficult tasks manageable, even with my oversized paws. The right tool for the job is worth every penny.
The Journey is the Reward
While the finished car is a source of immense pride, the true value lies in the process itself - the challenges overcome, the skills learned, and the connection forged with this piece of automotive history.
The trials and tribulations just increase the value of the reward you feel in the end. This Corvair is more than just a car to me now - it's a testament to perseverance, craftsmanship, and the joy of bringing something back from the brink.
The Road Ahead
With the restoration complete, the journey with this Corvair is far from over. Here's what's next for this reborn classic:
Show Circuit
I plan to attend several classic car shows this season, sharing the story of this restoration with fellow enthusiasts. While a Sasquatch at a car show might raise some eyebrows, the quality of the restoration speaks for itself.
Scenic Drives
The Corvair was built to be driven, not just displayed. I've mapped out several scenic routes through the mountains and along the coast that will showcase both the car's capabilities and the natural beauty of the region.
Technical Articles
Throughout the restoration, I developed several unique techniques to accommodate my large paws when working on delicate components. I'll be sharing these approaches through a series of technical articles to help others with similar challenges.
Mentoring
Having completed this restoration, I'm eager to share the knowledge and experience gained with others embarking on their own projects. I'll be offering guidance to fellow enthusiasts, particularly those who might be intimidated by the scope of a full restoration.
Enjoying Every Mile
Most importantly, I'll be enjoying this Corvair on the open road, adding miles and memories with every journey. After all, these cars were built to be driven and appreciated, not hidden away.
I can't wait to drive it again and again, experiencing the joy that comes from cruising in a classic that I brought back to life with my own hands (or rather, paws).
See More of This Legendary Restoration
Browse our complete gallery of before, during, and after photos documenting every step of this journey.
View the Full Gallery