1972 Motion Chevelle Article

[MosportGreen66]

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For and From Adam Tuckman.

-Dan

[Atuckman]

thanks dan. this is unfort the only article ive found about the 70-72 Motion Chevelles. enjoy

[PeteLeathersac]

Remember the Motion modified Chevelle in the thread here a few years back where the guy met up w/ Joel at a coffee shop to review his documents etc?.
I'm thinking it was a '72 but could've been a '71...on eBay then, maybe even a ragtop and perhaps modified by Motion in later years?.

http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/dunno.gif
~ Pete

--------------------
I like real cars best...the REAL real ones!

[mockingbird812]

Good stuff Dan. Thanks for posting!

Ahhh, all THAT for 8 Grand!! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/shocked.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/burnout.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[Kim_Howie]

http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/CharleySucks.gif

[thomam]

To the readers,

I happen to be the lucky owner of this 1972 Motion Performance Chevelle featured in this Cars magazine from April 1972. I recently purchased this car from the original owner after he purchased it 49 years ago from Motion Performance. This car has been missing from the public for many years as it was just started after 27 years in storage last week. The car has less than 7 thousand miles and has never been in any bad weather and it retains all the original paperwork including the Motion Bill of Sale, protect o plate and original receipts.

The prior owner who I know allowed me to purchase the car which is now currently undergoing a complete mechanical refresh as it will be restored back to the original condition and on the road in the Spring of 2021. It is my intent to honor the original owner for his years of care and to keep this car running as part of automotive history. I'm very lucky to be the current custodian of this car.

I wanted to let everyone know that this car is still around and will be back to its original glory soon!

Thanks

[Steve Shauger]

Congratulations and look forward to seeing and learning more about this incredible car...

[thomam]

Thanks Steve it will be my pleasure!

[COPO]

Congratulations and great to hear you plan to freshen it up and get it back out on the street. Curious what was the price for all of the upgrades by Motion. Looking forward to some pictures of the beast.

[thomam]

The price of the work at Motion was over 4000 dollars over the price of a standard 454 SS Chevelle.

[Mr70]

Beautiful! :burnout:

[1972convss454]

WOW Awesome story. Congratulations. Cant wait to see it after almost 50 years. This is a true SuperCar!

[JoeC]

sounds like a great find. Does the car still have the original paint?

[markinnaples]

Congratulations!!! I'm a huge fan of Motion cars and really glad to hear it's still around and in good shape. Please share pics whenever get the opportunity!

[1967 4K]

I remember well reading that article back in the day. Good to hear the car is still around.

Richard

[smallblockhero]

i recently inquired about this car on the motion facebook page. a bunch of us were wondering if it still lived. i am super excited to see pics of it and hear about it. would love to hear the tales from the original owner too. this car was quite beastly

[thomam]

Thanks for your information on the Facebook page.. I requested to Join tonight.

The original owner of the car had a very difficult time to let it go as I have been chasing him for the past 4 years. He finally realized at 73 that the car was never going to be back on the road as it was in storage for 27 years. I remember seeing the car when I was 16 years old in 1973 and it was the fastest car around. The car looked like a standard Chevelle SS 454 with no stripes, no cal hood and no special badges. It had chrome headers and sidepipes with s/s cragar wheels but it was a phase 3 Motion Performance but hidden.

I can say that it is very exciting to me to have this opportunity to put this car back to 100 percent as it just needs a refresh and a few key parts. It will be back in service with the hone o drive, 4:88's and build specs from 1972.

thanks

[markinnaples]

Spectacular! Can you share some pics of what it looks like now before you get to fixing it up? I think I speak for everyone when I say we'd love to see it even in that stored state.

[thomam]

John,

I have provided a few pictures but I'm not ready to show many because it needs to have the original parts placed back on (hone o drive, valve covers, headers, headers and side pipes...). I provided the motor and interior for review. The motor and full drivetrain is now out of the car. All parts and colors to match back in 1972... This will be an expensive project to put all parts back in place as a full rebuild is underway to ensure all is well after 27 years of being dormant.

Enjoy and more to come when in final stages!

[smallblockhero]

the interior looks beautiful! the engine bay is still very clean. are you planning to make it look as it did in the magazine article?

[mhm1966]

According to my Motion Dyno-Proven Super-Performance Parts Catalog the Phase III 454 ZLX was a special hand assembled engine. HD 4-bolt main block, 12-to-1 forged " Open Chamber " style pistons, HD forged crank with radiused oil holes, Special Cast Iron " Open Chamber " cylinder heads 2.19 intake 1.88 exhaust, special HD full float connecting rods with 7/16 rod bolts, high lift .560/.580-lift solid lifter camshaft, 8-qt.oil pan, aluminum high rise intake manifold, Dyno-jetted 850 double pump carburetor, Motion Mallory distributor, Ramcharger wires with boots, Phase III CD Unit and NHRA approved clutch and flywheel. *Our most popular Engine Package*

[luzl78]

Love that van

[thomam]

My plan is to make it exactly like it was provided by Motion in 1972.. All parts will be put in including the hone o drive and 4:88's. All parts are being restored or replaced with NOS. My biggest issue is the headers and side pipes as they will have to be made unless a reader has a set.

thanks

[scuncio]

I sold 427king a NOS set of Kustom sidepipes that would be perfect for this car. Not sure if he still has them or not.

[1972convss454]

John,

I have provided a few pictures but I'm not ready to show many because it needs to have the original parts placed back on (hone o drive, valve covers, headers, headers and side pipes...). I provided the motor and interior for review. The motor and full drivetrain is now out of the car. All parts and colors to match back in 1972... This will be an expensive project to put all parts back in place as a full rebuild is underway to ensure all is well after 27 years of being dormant.

Enjoy and more to come when in final stages!

Nice! Appears to be a later built 72 with the seat belt warning light in the dash. That had to be in place by January 1972. It started showing up in November 71 built cars. Odd that it has a 70 Air Conditioning vent on the drivers side.

Where was the car built? Baltimore or Leeds

Thanks for posting pics. I would have to say this has to be the "Ultimate" 1972 Chevelle!

[JoeC]

I saw a post where a guy built his own set of header side pipes starting with a generic header kit that comes with a bunch of pre bent tubing and header flanges

I think the kit was from Speedway Motors

[scuncio]

Here are the headers I sold to Chuck.


https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/Parts/i-9G2nSH6/0/fc0d8d68/X2/image-X2.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/Parts/i-4MWsLhX/0/134b4912/X2/image-X2.jpg

[thomam]

let me know if you friend has the headers and/or side pipes made by Kustom that could be used on a chevelle

[thomam]

Joseph,

The car to my knowledge is a Baltimore built car and it was delivered to the owner in December 1971. It is an early 1972 Chevelle. As far as the vents, it is the poor man's air condition system ("astro ventilation system).

thanks,

[scuncio]

let me know if you friend has the headers and/or side pipes made by Kustom that could be used on a chevelle

These are the exact mfg headers that were on the car in the article and were specific to 68-72 Chevelle. I have no idea if 427king still has them; you should ask him. He's a site sponsor and is here regularly.

[big gear head]

It would be awesome to see this car at the next Super Car Reunion.

My '72 SS 454 Chevelle had those same pipes. It was also a 4 speed. A few girls burned their legs on them.

[tom406]

https://427king.com/product/nos-ok-headers-and-sidepipes-1969-l88-copo-chevelle-427/

[scuncio]

There you go!!! BTW they are killer. I bought them from a guy who purchased them new for a '68 L78 Chevelle, but wrecked the car before they went on. Sat in his garage since 1973 when I bought them in 2012.

[scuncio]

Here is another picture of them:

https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/Parts/i-6TSsHbq/0/a1ce5554/X2/image-X2.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/Parts/i-52fX3dK/0/22b2368b/X2/image-X2.jpg

[thomam]

To all,

Today, I purchased the original NOS OK Kustom Headers and side pipes. I want to give a big shout out to scuncio (Tony) for providing me with a lead to a member that he sold the pipes to 6 years ago.. I can say that luck was on my side as I contacted the current owner 427king and he still had the pipes.

These pipes will be fitted back on the car and they will need to be chromed to meet the build requirements to match the original purchase. This web site provides much value to members and I want to thank everyone who has provided feedback. They will go back on an original Motion Chevelle!

Regards, Mark

[scuncio]

Glad to help. That is “probably” the last set of NOS Kustom pipes in existence (I say “probably” because you just never know).

[thomam]

I have provided a listing for Kustom Headers for reference. The exhaust is 2 1/8 tubes going into a 4 inch exchanges. I have the 1227 headers and side pipes and they will need to be fitted after the motor refresh and then making them all chrome to match the original build.

Regards, Mark

[thomam]

To the readers,

I want to provide the group with an update on my 1972 Chevelle Motion Performance mechanical refresh.

Progress is underway as the complete drive train was removed, cleaned and painted as planned. In order to move this effort forward as many readers know, it is very expensive, time consuming and exciting and fun when all the parts making it look new again. I have provided some pictures from last month on the engine pull, cleanup of the under carriage (every nut and bolt) as well as completing the engine area. The next phase in January will be cleaning and rebuilding the rear end and replacing the rear springs.

This is the current update and the effort will continue over the next 3-4 months. I will post when more work is completed.

In the meantime, please stay safe, healthy and enjoy the holidays!

Regards, Mark

[thomam]

I need some assistance on my Chevelle and the scatter shield it came with from Motion Performance in 1972.

Can anyone point me to the actual manufacture as it is not labeled.

The color of the shield is white and I have provided pictures from when it was new and what it looks like today.

If you have ideas, please let me know your thoughts?

Thanks, Mark

[R68GTO]

It looks like the Lakewood I have for my car. Can you post pic from reside where the fork comes through?

[JoeC]

E-T used white paint on some of their performance parts but I'm not sure if they sold scatter shields

Motion used some E-T parts and sold E-T parts in their catalog

[JoeC]

I found this picture in an article about performance mods

[whitetop]

I had a mint Stahl and Associates deep sump BB oil pan like the one in the photo. Sold it to "SixtiesMuscle" Mike Guarise about 15 years ago.

[thomam]

Yes I will repost... Are lakewood shield white?

thanks

[COPO]

Are lakewood shield white?

thanks

Typical color for Lakewood scatter shield is red.

[thomam]

Progress is moving forward with mechanical rebuild on the rear end using 4:88 gears to match the original build by Motion. The hone-o-drive will also be installed as that was part of the original equipment and once installed it will drop the gear ratio to 3:43.

As planned, the rear end will be installed into the car by the second week in January and then onto the engine(Feb & Mar). I will keep you posted on future updates.

Happy New Year to all !

Mark

[JoeC]

thanks for the update
in the original article it has white rear lower control arms.
are those E-T bars? Do you still have those ?

[SS427]

Where was the car built? Baltimore or Leeds


Based on the orientation of the engine mount bolts on the frame and the lack of undercoating above the heater box, plus the fact that it started life on the east coast I would guess a Baltimore car.

Love these old street racers especially unmolested ones. Thanks for sharing the build with us!

[thomam]

Joe,

Yes I still have the motion provided traction bars. I had them powder coated gloss white and they will be installed in the next 2 weeks.

Mark

[thomam]

Rick,

Thanks for the note! The car was never in any bad weather as it has low mileage ~7k. As far as the condition, it is very good as the original owner did a great job in keeping it in good shape.

At the end of the day, it just becomes a refresh as the car is in great condition. I plan to honor the history of the car and the original owner who had it for 49 years.

Regards,

[thomam]

I have provided some updates from today as the rear end is almost completed.

The traction bars and the remaining bolts, rear cover and shocks will go in this week and then onto the engine refresh.

Enjoy, Mark

[mr.4speed]

Looks great!

[thomam]

To the readers,

The work on the car is continuing as required and the rear end and the brakes are now in place. The next step is to rebuild the engine and put it back to when it was delivered by Motion in December 1971. The engine is in very good shape as it does not have many miles on it but I need to be safe.

I have provided some pictures to illustrate the progress and to share with all the members...

Enjoy, Mark

[thomam]

I want to provide an update on the activities that are associated with the restoration of my 1972 Baldwin Motion performance Chevelle. The project has been going fine as required to restore the car to the original condition and to honor the prior owner (Bob) who sold it to me.

This is a fun, costly and satisfying project researching parts to ensure the car meets the level of restoration to support the original build and purchase from December 1971.

At this point, the brake system, rear end (4:88) and all required fuel and brake lines are in place as well the engine compartment. The Engine is out for all the necessary work (boil out, hone, polish the crank, bearings, rods and pistons cleaned) and the heads (springs, retainers, cut, seals) to meet specifications.

The next steps are:

1.Clean and organize the Hone O Drive
2. Add brake fluid and bleed the system
3. Power Coat the Scatter Shield (white, yes white as the original picture and color remains)
4. Engine assembly (Mar. 2021)
5. Put in the original M22 which is already rebuilt
6. Install and align the Hone O Drive

Thanks, and enjoy, Mark

[R68GTO]

That is quite the line loc plumbing job! Love the mission of your project and the updates!

[scuncio]

Nice progress!

[JoeC]

looks like someone added a MSD box. Did it have a Motion Phase III CD box when new?

[thomam]

I do not have the original phase III electronics. I will keep the upgrade and I made update the distributor. I think having newer electronics will be useful

Thanks

[COPO]

Not sure what ignition box it came with new, but my 70 BM Chevelle had a gold colored Mark 10 ignition box. I've seen them on ebay from time to time.

[JoeC]

looking at the original article , it shows the black finned Phase III CD box. Looks like it has the stock distributor because the vacuum canister and stock dist cap is showing.

The holes should still be there from the original CD box

I think in 1972, Motion was selling both the black Phase III CD box and the gold Phase III CD box

[COPO]

Isn't the Phase III box a Jacobs box with a Phase III decal? I see those NOS on ebay from time to time and the decal is available as well as a repro.

[thomam]

Thanks for the info

[NorCam]

Just read the thread from front to back. It's a very cool car and must have looked somewhat understated for what it was back in the day. I have to ask though...why no pictures of the complete car as it was found??? I see one picture of the front frame and engine bay unrestored and then another with it having been painted...but nothing else of the car, the body panels nor the interior? Would love to see more of the car to see what it looked like before you started.

[thomam]

In response to your question, I have provided some pictures from when the car was purchased from the original owner (Bob) and when it was shipped back to the east coast.

The car was from Long Island and it went out west and remained in storage for approximately 12 years. The car has under 7K in mileage and was never in any bad weather and stored for 49 years.

I also have all the original parts not shown in these pictures (hone o drive, Kustom headers and side pipes, full documentation, valve covers, emblems...)

Enjoy the pictures, Mark

[NorCam]

Very cool. I'll be following this one for sure and watching for more pictures.

Cheers!

[thomam]

As an update, the engine will be returned next week having all the machine work performed. I will guess over the next 3 - 4 weeks, the engine should be completed and placed back in the car. I have provided some pictures from the inside as the brake system was just bleed tonight.

The scatter shield was returned today with the powder coat. This is the actual white color that was placed in the car back in December 1971.

I have no idea who made a white scatter shield back in the day but I would love to know the manufacturer. Can anyone assist?

Regards, Mark

[JoeC]

I found these pics of a white scatter shield with an ET decal.

Motion sold ET parts but I don't recall seeing ET scatter shields

I will try posting this question on a speed parts page

[thomam]

thanks for this update!! It is the same... Not sure what ET stands for but it is sure the same one...

Much appreciated, Mark

[markinnaples]

ET makes wheels and had popular aluminum slots back in the day.
http://www.etmags.com/

[big gear head]

I met a guy on Facebook that has a NOS phase III box that he will sell. Let me know if you are interested.

[Chuck_Burg]

Such an awesome car deserves the NOS Motion Phase III box!

[thomam]

I want to provide an update for the first week in March.

Today, I picked up the engine from the machine shop and everything was in great shape. The engine was honed, boiled, cam bearing installed and freeze out plugs replaced. The crank, rods and pistons were are cleaned and checked against factory specifications. All clearances and specs were perfect with the block. The heads were machined to align to factory specifications with new springs, retainers and clips.

Over the next 2 weeks, the engine will be assembled to meet the Motion build requirements. It will be the same as what was delivered to (Bob) the original car owner in December 1971. I’m very excited to put this car back on the road to its former state as it was the only 1972 Chevelle built by Motion. More to come on this project over the next several weeks.

Regards, Mark

[thomam]

The engine for the car will now be assembled as required. The engine was painted and all screw holes were cleaned up with proper taps to ensure good threads. In the next two weeks, I expect the engine to be completed and then I will move onto transmissions (M22 & Hone O Drive) for placement as well as fitting the Kustom Headers and Side Pipes.

My mechanic (Tom) and I have our work cutout to put this car back together. We all know if is easy to take apart but a real challenge to put back together keeping the original parts supporting the history.

I have provided some pictures and I will continue providing feedback until the car is back on the road and the original story posted in November 2009 will come to a close.

Regards, Mark

[thomam]

To all,

Well, progress is being made as the short block build is underway. The pistons were attached to the connecting rods and the rings were cut to support maximum performance.

Work will continue with the cam and timing chain next which will be degreed to support performance and then onto placing the heads on the short block.

I expect the engine to be completed in the next week...

Regards, Mark

[thomam]

Today, was the day to put the engine in the car and to fit the Kustom Headers and side pipes. Well, it was a very long day as the headers did not fit as required. I may have to switch gears on the exhaust as I’m very disappointed the headers for the car is currently a big challenge. I need to evaluate my options to keep the same look and feel from 1972.

I will put on the original motion valve covers and the scatter shield, m22 transmission and hone o drive as my next activity. I hope all works as required as I do not wnat any setbacks.

I will have move updates in 2 weeks so enjoy the new pictures and overall status.

Mark

[scuncio]

Sorry to hear that. What was the issue with the headers?

[thomam]

I sent a private message

[scuncio]

Replied.

[luzl78]

Headers can be modified to move pipes to fit by a good fabricator and welder. Welds can be smooth sanded and headers coated.

[markinnaples]

Sorry to hear of your difficulties with your headers, but I have to say that this seems to be a common, common malady. These cars are around 50 years old or more, and that so many companies can't make a set of headers that fit cleanly escapes me. Why? I bought a set of Hedman headers because the ones I had previously bought didn't fit well at all and I had to dent one tube so much that I wasn't comfortable running it. But, even the new Hedman set had to be dented about 1/4" to 1/2" where the manual steering box sits; I can't image putting a set in with power steering and AC, etc.. Just seems so strange to me that they haven't gotten this down yet.

[luzl78]

American racing headers in Long Island will make you a perfect set of headers for you that will fit and tuck way up. It’ll cost you about $1,800 but they’re perfect for what you need

[thomam]

Thanks to all for the positive feedback!

I will be looking to go to American Racing headers to discuss my options but it will be expensive. To make a set to replace the OK Kustom headers with side pipes in polished stainless steel with be at least 6000 dollars.

I'm not real happy but I have to put on my big boy pants to make the car what it was in 1972. I still have a few options on the table. I want to complete the power train as the M22 goes in next followed by the Hone o drive and drive shaft.

I will try again with the headers and side pipes but I will need miracle as the do not line up to the heads. These pipes ae the biggest things you ever saw 2 1/8 tubes going into a 4 inch collector.

I also posted so positive pictures on the original white E/T scatter shield and clutch and pressure plate.

Regards, Mark

[L_e_e]

I struggled with a set of these side pipes years ago, I cut head flange vertically between the last 2 cylinders, worked great.

[thomam]

To all,

I have a hone o drive setup for my chevelle that was part of the original equipment from Motion. The problem I have is that I need to speak to somebody who has one in a car and has understands the workings.

My unit looks great but how do you know if it is in 1:1 gear or reduced in overdrive? How does the shifter work and what happens to the hone itself?

Does the level on the hone go (in or out) or (up and down)?

Is there anyone out there than has real knowledge of a hone?

I have provided two images,, Does the shift lever go in/out or up or down? How does it engage?

Let me know and thanks, mark

[JoeC]

I have seen the Hone manuals on-line

[thomam]

To all,

Well, we got the hone functional as required... Sitting for 49 years caused the engagement shaft to be locked.

Just for the record, the hone shaft goes in/out and not side to side.. All good and onto the installation this week.

thanks

[x Baldwin Motion]

In response to your question, I have provided some pictures from when the car was purchased from the original owner (Bob) and when it was shipped back to the east coast.

The car was from Long Island and it went out west and remained in storage for approximately 12 years. The car has under 7K in mileage and was never in any bad weather and stored for 49 years.

I also have all the original parts not shown in these pictures (hone o drive, Kustom headers and side pipes, full documentation, valve covers, emblems...)

Enjoy the pictures, Mark

Wow this is great. Good to chat with you Mark.

[thomam]

I wanted to provide an update as all is not lost with the headers and side pipes that I purchased.

We were able to get the passengers side in with no problem tonight as it took 15 minutes to align. The drives side, not the same as they are really tight and the car needs to be higher to make the proper angle to put in position. I will try next week as the can needs to be higher (working without a lift is real hard).

Let me tell you, these are really tight and hard to put in the car and trying not to scratch anything. REAL PAIN..

I think they look cool the way they are and if all goes well I will use to fire the engine and the they will be chromed..

Wish me luck as I need it on the drivers side..

Regards, Mark

[COPO]

Congrats on getting one side in. Worst case, you can unbolt the motor, raise it up with an engine crane and fit the header in loose and then put everything else back in place. A bit like fitting a jigsaw puzzle together and certainly a 2-3 person job. A pain in the a** for sure, but that's worked for me in the past when I did not have access to a lift.

[DougA]

When I installed headers in my 72 BB Chevelle, on the drivers side, I had to remove clutch linkage, oil filter, steering box and shaft, remove both front motor mount bolts, and jack up the engine as high as I could, to get clearance to fit without bending or dinging. Was still a battle, this was with Hooker Super Comps, 2" tubes.

[thomam]

Doug,

Thanks for the feedback as I hope it is not as extreme.. More to come and wish me luck

mark

[DougA]

Good luck on your restoration. Sure looks like you're on the right path to me.
Just a cool car!

[thomam]

Good news! I was able to put in place the drivers side headers and sidepipes... These are the biggest tighest headers in the world. I had to get the car up about 4-5 inches higher to support the proper angle. I think they only make by a hair on all areas.

My next step is to get them chromed and them back on the car. Thanks to all who supported this effort.

Regards, Mark

[thomam]

I have provided some pictures of one header that is currently chromed. The work to get to this point has been very difficult from fitting to chroming.

Anyway, please see some updated pictures as more to come in the next several weeks.

Regards, Mark

[Postsedan]

All your hard work is paying off. The end result will be nothing short of spectacular :)

Thanks for sharing.....keep posted these awesome pictures.

Dan

[JoeC]

thanks for the updates

are those the original Motion valve covers that came on the car?

[thomam]

Yes the original covers

[thomam]

Dan

Thanks for the feedback! I watched the video and beautiful cars. I also have a frost green z/28 since 1975 as it was my high school car. The color today is different and not seen much

Regards, Mark

[thomam]

It has been a very successful week putting the car together. We received and installed the drivers side chrome header. I can tell you that everything fit as required and it took much effort to make everything align. The steering column has 1/8 of an inch clearance from the header.

The cooling system and the complete drivetrain has been installed. Over the next week or so, the remaining exhaust system will be completed, engine electrical wires connected and remaining engine parts will be installed.

I have provided some updated pictures to so the overall progress. On 5/11/2021, we were able to fit the passenger header and side pipe. Now the fun comes to ensure everything is tight and aligned..

Enjoy, Mark

[R68GTO]

Daaauum! That looks great!

[big gear head]

I agree, looks great.

[thomam]

Thanks for the note! The support of the team has assisted me with parts and recommendations... Great website and supporters..

[thomam]

To all,

The progress on the car has been going very well as it comes together. It has been a very hard restoration working out of a single garage without the use of a lift. I have been very fortunate to have many friends assisting and my master mechanic Tom who has provided the guidance and the major effort in this restoration.

As mentioned earlier in prior posts, this 1972 Chevelle has a long history in our town and it never lost a street race according to its prior owner Bob. Again, it is an honor to now to own this 1 or 1 historical Motion car which is now put back together as it was in 1972.

At this time, the car has the following activities that need to be completed and prior to taking if for a test ride:
• Complete the wiring under the hood
• Install the Cal Custom fly eye air cleaner
• Install the chrome Kustom side pipes and internal in line mufflers
• Purchase 12 gallons of 110 leaded race fuel
• Fill the cooling system and verify all other fluids
• Install the rear sway bar
• Install the hood
• Detail the car body


I have to mention that this car had the support of many individuals including my wife Karen who suggested I purchase the car. I want to personally thank Tom, Rick, Charlie, Karen, my three sons, Charlie (nova), Tony and many others including Bob and Cindy the prior owners for providing me with this opportunity.

So, in the next two weeks we should be completed with this restoration. Wish me luck as we step through the next phases of confirming every part and process to get this “Motion” back on the road where it belongs for the public to see.

Regards, Mark

[Dave Rifkin]

Such a bad ass looking car; talk about having the perfect stance.

[thomam]

To all,

After fueling the Chevelle with 18 gallons of 110 octane racing gas and confirming a final check, it was time to start the car today. I want to thank my head mechanic Tom as well as Rick and Karen for their effforts in making today possible.

After 7 months, the car fired up without a problem and the engine performed as expected. I wanted to share the pictures for your reference.

Regards, Mark

[R68GTO]

Great progress! Those side pipes look killer.

[luzl78]

To all,

After fueling the Chevelle with 18 gallons of 110 octane racing gas and confirming a final check, it was time to start the car today. I want to thank my head mechanic Tom as well as Rick and Karen for their effforts in making today possible.

After 7 months, the car fired up without a problem and the engine performed as expected. I wanted to share the pictures for your reference.

Regards, Markwe need a video of the car running!

[thomam]

I will try to upload a video,,, The upload feature did not support it.. More to come, Mark

[thomam]

As requested, I added a youtube video of the first start of the 454 ZLX engine. I will add others as I just figured this out..

Enjoy, Mark

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uNKHohmB5Kg

Sound of the side pipes with Hooker inserts (21003HKR)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UUkLQb-j3DI

[mr.4speed]

looks awesome! Needs Bias Ply tires on it at some point

[Xplantdad]

Video :)


uNKHohmB5Kg

[thomam]

The mechanical work has been completed on the car and I want to personally thank the team of family and friends who have assisted in this car restoration. The work effort, and professional guidance I received from my master mechanic (Tom) can never be understated as well my wife (Karen) who recommended that I take this project on even though she was fighting cancer in the middle of a pandemic.

I have many others to thank for allowing me to move this effort forward (Rick, Charlie the tuna, Tony, Charlie Nova aka “the hat”, my children (Ryan, Matthew, Greg), Scott, Steve, Brian, Patti, Cheryl, Clinton and the prior owners (Bob & Cindy) for providing me with this opportunity.

At this point, the car is basically completed except for a final buffing, misc. cleaning and test drives to get any bugs out and to confirm overall safety. I also want to thank the readers who have provided me with direction on parts and feedback.

I have provided a few pictures that will outline the professional work and team work which contributed to the restoration to this historical car.

Thanks to all!

Regards, Mark

[big gear head]

Great job. It sure reminds me of my '72 SS 454. That's the car that I had when I turned 16 and started driving. Any change you could bring it to SCR?

[thomam]

What is scr and where is it

[big gear head]

Super Car Reunion at Bowling Green KY. There is a special section right here on this sight just for the SCR. https://www.yenko.net/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=80
Also a Facebook page with lots of pictures from past years. https://www.facebook.com/supercarreunion

[1972convss454]

Car looks Awesome!
I may have asked this before but was the car originally painted Black? Black was not an option in 72 unless special ordered. Would love to see this car in person. It has to be the Ultimate 72 Chevelle.

[GotGrunt]

Car looks Awesome!
I may have asked this before but was the car originally painted Black? Black was not an option in 72 unless special ordered. Would love to see this car in person. It has to be the Ultimate 72 Chevelle.

I had always assumed it was midnight bronze which sometimes looks black unless it’s in direct sunlight. If it is special order black, that just makes it so much cooler.

[thomam]

The car was originally midnight bronze and was painted black as that was the color the owner wanted but it was not available in September 1971. It was unfortunate that black was unavailable at the time of the order but it will be midnight bronze someday when it needs a full paint job.

Regards, Mark

[thomam]

Today, I had the pleasure to take the car for a ride and it is a beast and much more than I ever had in any automobile. It is very strong and I still need to test all the new parts and to ensure all is working as required.

At this point, I only have 5 miles on the car so I need to learn how it operates.

I have the car buffed out and added the Motion Emblems to make it offical on the body. I will provide a driving video when I can you can hear the M22 wine and the sidepipes doing their thing..

Enjoy, Mark

[Xplantdad]

Very cool!!:biggthumpup::worship::biggthumpup::worship: :biggthumpup:

[Tracker1]

Wonderful job saving this piece of Motion history, I look forward to some wheel and tire change-ups. The original slots and bias-plys would really top off the look!

[thomam]

Today, I took the car out on the 4th of July and tested the Hone-O-Drive. The gear ratio went from 4:88 to 3:42 and I can tell you a big difference in the ratio. I can actually take the car for a good ride as the car is a cruiser with 3:42's.

Regards, Mark,,,

[thomam]

To all,

I have provided some pictures of the car finally done and on the road. The Hone work perfectly allowing street and racing gears at a flip of a lever. I can save a little GAS now! Funny, this beast eats the good purple fuel (110 octane) like drinking water on a hot day.

I must say, it is an enjoyable car and it puts you back into the 1970's.

Enjoy, Mark

[Lynn]

Great job on this car.

Enjoy the heck out of it. Don't let it get away from you.

I fully get the issue with the headers. I put a set of large tube headers and side pipes on a 454 powered C3 back in 1977. I was absolutely convinced that the headers had been jigged up incorrectly and would never fit. Gave it a rest for a couple days, tried again, and got them to go. Just as you described, there some very tight gaps you could barely run a sheet of notebook paper through.

[R68GTO]

Looks great Mark! The car has a stealthy, bad ass stance to it....well, as stealthy as Cragars and side pipes can be:haha:

[big gear head]

It sure does remind me of my old '72. Looks great!

[Xplantdad]

Love it!!

[dykstra]

I just read this whole thread. What a great story. Congratulations on all your hard work. Beautiful Motion Chevelle!

[thomam]

On September 17, 1971 fifty years ago, Bob the former owner placed down 1700.00 as a deposit for this Chevelle. Next week he will be back in town and he will take if for a cruise.

I think it is wonderful to have this car and the original owner cruising the streets of Hicksville again. I added some pictures for reference and to help any other member who needs any clarification on the build.

Enjoy, Mark

[Xplantdad]

how cool. Thank you for sharing!
:headbang:

[Crush]

Great story and cool paperwork!

[thomam]

What a Wonderful Day!

A Historical Classic Car was returned to the local roads in Hicksville yesterday. The car in this story “1972 Baldwin Motion Chevelle”, was ordered over 50 years ago and originally owned by Bob and Cindy.

You may ask, why is this a special automobile as it looks very similar to any other modified street racing car from the 1970’s. The history of this car is special, as it was ordered by Bob a Hicksville Resident after he came out of the service and at a time when cars were subject to the gas crisis and all cars having emissions to cut down on pollution. This was also the time when car horsepower was dropped in half and not the best time to have a street racing car. Bob decided to order a specially equipped street racing car that was purchased from a Chevrolet dealer and directly shipped to Baldwin Motion where it was disassembled and refitted with special high-performance parts.

As background, it has taken 7 months to perform a mechanical restoration on this car to put it back to its glory days as it was ordered and delivered to Bob in December, 1971. I could go on for hours on all the individual efforts supporting this restoration but I have to thank Tom who was the master mechanic putting this car back on the road.

It was wonderful having Bob take the car around Hicksville to relive his youth and to personally thank him for the opportunity as the next custodian of this special car.

Check out the youtube video: https://youtu.be/hiurk-ORZA4

Regards,
Mark Thomas

[mr.4speed]

How cool is that! thanks for sharing

[1972convss454]

That is a cool story and that 72 is Bad A$$!

[olredalert]

----Mark,,,Are you happy with the height of the rear end? Please don't take this as a negative post, just wondering. Maybe the extra passengers?.....Bill S

[thomam]

Bill

I think the back is a little low and I replaced the springs. It is lower with the people in the back definitely. When it sits normally it looks correct but I think it should be about 2 inches higher. I may put air shocks on the car someday to match the original purchase

Thanks for the feedback

[Chris KH2PM]

Awesome Chevelle! Thanks for sharing with the group!

[bashton]

Would love to have you join us at MCACN in 2022! Please consider joining us.

Bashton

[1972convss454]

Would love to have you join us at MCACN in 2022! Please consider joining us.

Bashton

YES! It would be an Awesome addition to the Class of 72. Owner needs to make it Happen!

[thomam]

Thanks and will consider, mark

[thomam]

On this day fifty years ago, the original owner (Bob) took delivery on his Baldwin Motion Chevelle. I wanted to post as this is a very significant in the car’s history. For the readers, I provided a YouTube video where it shows the pulling of the engine on a very accurate dyno. The engine produced well over 500 hp and it keep gaining power at 6500 RPM and would have continued to 7500 RPM. I elected not to push the engine because I cannot replace it nor will I ever take it to a point where it could be damaged.

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7vYMFCzdSYk

As far as I’m concerned, it would have been in the range of what Motion advertised for horsepower given it is a naturally aspirated engine.

It has been a fun year and now the car is sleeping for the winter. I want to wish all of the readers who encouraged and provided me with advice to have a Happy Holiday Season.

Enjoy, Mark Thomas

[thomam]

To all readers,

I have a question on Dave Ankenbauer's 1972 Baldwin Motion 454 Phase III Corvette. I know the car was sold to Dave Belk who I think is still the current owner.

My 1972 454 Phase III chevelle has the same bill of sale date 12/13/1971 (Receipt number 209) as Dave's car 12/13/1971 (receipt number 210). In order to enhance my documentation, I'm looking for a good copy of Dave's Bill of sale.

Anyway, I would like to contact Dave and get a copy of his Bill of Sale. I also posted this request on facebook... Let me know if anyone can assist with this request?

thanks mark

[GotGrunt]

I need some assistance on my Chevelle and the scatter shield it came with from Motion Performance in 1972.

Can anyone point me to the actual manufacture as it is not labeled.

The color of the shield is white and I have provided pictures from when it was new and what it looks like today.

If you have ideas, please let me know your thoughts?

Thanks, Mark

I recently found and purchased the exact same scattershield. Like you said, it does not have any markings or part numbers on either the shield or block plate. If there was a sticker it is long gone as somebody painted it chevy orange a long time ago. The original white is still visible all over. The guy I bought it from said it’s been in his garage for 40 years. Pretty cool to see yours looking brand new :biggthumpup:

[thomam]

Thanks for the feedback! The manufacture of the shield is E/T from what I found but i do not recall what E/T stood for....

See attached pictures and they are difficult to find and mine is 50 years old.. thanks again, mark

[GotGrunt]

Thanks for the feedback! The manufacture of the shield is E/T from what I found but i do not recall what E/T stood for....

See attached pictures and they are difficult to find and mine is 50 years old.. thanks again, mark

I believe E/T stands for Eastern Tool, not the same company as E-T wheels.

[Oldss]

Mark, You will not find a better copy of the original than what you have. The original bill of sale is no longer with the car. Maybe still with the niece of the OO?

[thomam]

Today, I took the 1972 Motion Chevelle out to a car night in Bellmore, New York. I went with my friend Tom who is also the master mechanic who supported the mechanical restoration.

I had a sign made by Pete Arnell (https://www.facebook.com/pete.arnell) which was not ready for tonight. I have provided the sign and two pictures of the car for your review.

I took it on a 18 mile trip on the parkway using the hone o drive (3:42 ratio) instead of 4:88's on the highway.

The car loves fuel (110 octane) but to drive this historical classic car and to share the stories from the original owner (Bob) was well worth it.

Happy Holidays to all!! Regards, Mark

[GotGrunt]

Today, I took the 1972 Motion Chevelle out to a car night in Bellmore, New York. I went with my friend Tom who is also the master mechanic who supported the mechanical restoration.

I had a sign made by Pete Arnell (https://www.facebook.com/pete.arnell) which was not ready for tonight. I have provided the sign and two pictures of the car for your review.

I took it on a 18 mile trip on the parkway using the hone o drive (3:42 ratio) instead of 4:88's on the highway.

The car loves fuel (110 octane) but to drive this historical classic car and to share the stories from the original owner (Bob) was well worth it.

Happy Holidays to all!! Regards, Mark

If I knew you would be at Bellmore, I would have made my way out there tonight. I definitely want to see this beast in person! You should take it for a ride down Sunrise highway and snap a picture of it in the lot where Motion used to be located. My buddy did that with his 70 Camaro.

[thomam]

If I knew you would be at Bellmore, I would have made my way out there tonight. I definitely want to see this beast in person! You should take it for a ride down Sunrise highway and snap a picture of it in the lot where Motion used to be located. My buddy did that with his 70 Camaro.

Thanks as I really had no plans on going. I just wanted to fire it up and friend said let’s go! I’m more of a Milleridge guy and sometimes oyster bay. I will send you a private if I remember when I go. Thanks again for the feedback and suggestion

Mark

[thomam]

To all,

I decided to put up a video that was taken on 9/26/2021 having the original owner Bob taking the car back through Hicksville, New York.

This was a very iconic and just wonderful to have this event take place with Bob and his wife. He did not jump on the car but you will enjoy the local cruise and his comments related to the car,,

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hi0I8j6KLaY


Enjoy, Mark

[Mr70]

Very nice!,thanks for sharing that with us.

[1972convss454]

Very Cool!
Thanks for Posting.

[dykstra]

Super cool! Love the video of the OO driving.

[GotGrunt]

I just bought a 2001 Mustang Bullitt from a guy named Jerry who, as it turns out, is a friend of Bob. They grew up together in Hicksville and went to the same high school. When he saw my 1972 Chevelle SS in the garage he started telling me about his friends 1972 Baldwin Motion Chevelle SS. He told me Bob let him drive the car when it was only two weeks old. What a small world!

[thomam]

thanks for that feedback and good luck with your bullitt mustang.. Thanks for the story on Bob and Hicksville, NY.

[thomam]

I did some minor updates to support a different look as suggested by many on this web site. I added replacement Air Shocks to add 2 inches to the rear end making the car less squatty. In addition, a replacement grill and a vaccum pump was added to help with braking. The pump really helped with the braking..

Anyway, looking forward to get back on the road in the next several weeks..

Regards, Mark