Charles and his father found this 1970 Nova on Craigslist back in June 2012, sitting in a cow pasture since the mid-1980s. They decided it was their candidate for a father/son restoration project.
It was a one owner car with 53,000 original miles, but they found it in very poor condition.
The pair purchased the 1970 Nova and started getting ready to begin the project. Charles’ father had owned a small body shop while he was growing up and he always wanted to try body work on this scale; he had some experience with small jobs here and there but really had a desire to expand his skillset.
I’m glad for the aftermarket support of these older vehicles because I was able to purchase most of the parts new. Thank you Ground Up SS396 for supporting us automotive enthusiasts.
Charles
The project turned into a full scale frame-off restoration, which took until November 2015 for the pair to complete in their 2 car garage during evenings and weekends. It was placed on a rotisserie and every nut, bolt, screw, and fastener were removed, as well as pretty much every body panel. His son even custom fabricated the traction bars and the shock relocation setup, as well as custom wired the entire 1970 Nova since he is an electrical instructor.
Here are some of the modifications and upgrades they’ve opted to go with on this 1970 Nova build:
413 ci small block, 10.5:1 compression
461 heads, ported & polished
2.05/1.60 valves back cut
Lunati 515 lift, 300 duration
Holley Street Dominator
Proform 750 double pumper carb
Super T-10 Transmission
Centerforce dual friction clutch
Hurst Competition Plus shifter
3.90 posi 12 bolt rear end
Frame connectors
Electric exhaust cut outs
So far, the Nova’s won the Editors Choice Award at the Super Chevy Show as well as several local event trophies and awards.
My goal is for our whole family to enjoy the car and the events we attend. To be looked upon as what a father and son can do together.
Charles
