WIW? L78/M22/4.10/UU original w/docs 1968 Camaro

[JamesinHBCA]

Not my car, but soon to be offered for sale. What's it worth?

Lemans Blue 1968 L78 Camaro SS in Canada with Canadian, factory(POP), and dealers docs.
Original drivetrain, low miles, one family owned, but rusty and needs full restoration.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Quote:</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Vehicle: 1968 Chevrolet Camaro SS 396
Trim: 712-Black Vinyl Standard Bucket Seats
Paint: U-LeMans Blue
Production Plant: Norwood, Ohio, U.S.A.
Shipping Date: March 21, 1968
Model Number: 12437-V8 2dr sport coupe
Engine: 396 CID 375 HP 4bbl Turbo Jet V8
Dealer: Belisle Automobiles Ltd. Ottawa Ontario

RPO Code Options

W84 Additional Fuel for Delivery
AS2 Head Rest - Special Contour Type Seat
A01. Glass: Tinted-All Windows
D80. Auxiliary Panel &amp; Valance (Spoiler) Rear
G80. Rear Axle: Positraction (limited Slip Differential)
J50. Brakes: Vacuum Power
L78. Engine: 396 CID-Special Hi-Performance-4BBL-V8
M22. Transmission: 4-Speed Manual Heavy Duty-Close Ratio
V48. Engine Coolant-Increase Protection (Antifreeze)
</div></div>

http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/pics/usergals/2017/02/full-19137-58859-1968_l78_camaro_project.jpg

[WILMASBOYL78]

<span style="font-size: 11pt">Does it run?? Condition of engine would seem to be an important component.

Very neat car...I'm not a Camaro guy, but I would say it should fetch good money if everything is there and the engine is not damaged. The Canadian and dealer docs are huge plus...

-wilma</span>

Rusted out hulk

[luzl78]

40,000 as-is

[WILMASBOYL78]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: frankk</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Rusted out hulk </div></div>
<span style="font-size: 11pt">
Well...that would make a difference...hard to tell from the 2 photos, I assume you know the car <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/hmmm.gif </span>

[Astock]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: luzl78</div><div class="ubbcode-body">40,000 as-is </div></div>

Wonder how owners come up with an unreasonable expectation...I was told $40,000 as is. $15 at best.

[luzl78]

I think it's worth more than 15,000 especially with the docs and original drivetrain and high performance pedigree. I said 40,000 cause this is a wacky car world we live in

[JamesinHBCA]

I am thinking it's a 50-60K car restored and a 20-25k as it sits.

Definitely rusty, but the worth saving.

Pretty sure the owner is not looking for anywhere near 40K as is. He is just looking for a reasonable price range.

http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/pics/usergals/2017/02/full-19137-58860-l78_engine.jpg
http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/pics/usergals/2017/02/full-19137-58861-l78_interior.jpg
http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/pics/usergals/2017/02/full-19137-58862-l78_rear.jpg


More pictures (http://imgur.com/a/uSMlj)

[NorCam]

Is the car still in Canada James? If so where?

[luzl78]

Sells for 25-30,000 takes 50-70,000 to restore it and is worth 50,000 after 80-1000,000 is into it.

[WILMASBOYL78]

<span style="font-size: 11pt">These photos certainly give a better understanding of the car...shame it was allowed to get to this point.

The 'restored value' will depend greatly on the quality of the restoration...and perhaps who does the work. It appears there will be a great deal of sheet metal required and extensive body repairs. The bill for the work and parts could easily surpass your 50-60k value. If this car was done to the highest standards, using real GM parts...I think the value would be greater than 50-60k.

It will be a major undertaking for someone both financially and time wise.

-wilma</span>

[luzl78]

I agree. Top notch resto could be 85-100,000

[luzl78]

I agree. Top notch resto could be 85-100,000. I've been quoted 20-25,000 to do your 68 but I think it would take almost 50,000 to make it absolutely perfect

[JamesinHBCA]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: NorCam</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Is the car still in Canada James? If so where?</div></div>

Car is in Ontario, Canada.

[njsteve]

Was the car in a flood? All that surface rust on the flat surfaces - floors, hood, engine compartment. Or is was it stored near the ocean?

[quik9r]

No ocean close buy <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/wink.gif but I bet a blue tarp was involved??

Kevin

[NorCam]

Just saw the other pictures.

It would take plenty to restore it and as stated above, more than it would ever be worth.

[scott s]

Yea u wont get a restored documented #s matching 375 anything for 50k, its a 6 figure car done right thats for sure...

[EZ Nova]

I think 15K is about ALL the money for that car CANADIAN dollars too!!!! The market I think is going down with the big, money don't matter guys like Ron Pratt getting out of it. And that other guy at BJ dump what, 145 cars this year.

FIRST, it's a '68 so to most, not as desirable of a car as a '69.
SECOND, I'm sure at this time, you can buy a nice fully restored L-78 Camaro for the 70's and less if you really look and are serious.

This car would take EVERYTHING to restore. I bet the cost of resto alone would be more then the finish product is worth, by a hand sum at that. I know BBBENNY's Nova is a very nice L-78 NOVA and I'm sure one would have more then &quot;BBBENNY MONEY&quot; restoring then purchasing a car like BBBBENNY's. And like I said, I think the market is going down on these old Muscle Cars...

The only was this would be a buy is for someone to look at it as a 8-10 year project where one could purchase it NOW, and maybe sit on it for some time to collect parts, THEN take some years to finish it.


Thant's my thoughts.

[Charley Lillard]

A car is worth what someone is willing to pay for it. Finding a documented well optioned car like this to restore is a desire of many. I'll bet 10k it would bring more than 15k on Ebay.

[markinnaples]

And regarding the value of muscle cars going down, not sure about that. Everything is cyclical, and there will always be people getting in and out of the hobby. People want muscle cars, then they want hot rods, then they want resto mods, then they want original, then the next thing. Just the cycle of life.

[cook_dw]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Charley Lillard</div><div class="ubbcode-body">A car is worth what someone is willing to pay for it. Finding a documented well optioned car like this to restore is a desire of many. I'll bet 10k it would bring more than 15k on Ebay. </div></div>


Bingo..

[SeattleCarGuy]

Great car when done in great colors, with L78 and docs. If I were in the market right now, I'd pay $20k for it as is.

[mockingbird812]

So maybe I missed something - L Blue in '68 would be special order? Or is L Blue in '68 not the same as L Blue in '69? If it is special order, that would certainly boost desirability and possibly value. Please educmaKate mE! <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/hmmm.gif

[RobR]

Sam, in January 1968 Chevy dropped the colors palomino ivory, Grecian green, fathom blue and tuxedo black. They then added rally green, Corvette bronze, Lemans blue, and British green. Rob.

[WILMASBOYL78]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: RobR</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Sam, in January 1968 Chevy dropped the colors palomino ivory, Grecian green, fathom blue and tuxedo black. They then added rally green, Corvette bronze, Lemans blue, and British green. Rob. </div></div>

<span style="font-size: 11pt">Maybe on some models...but Fathom Blue, GG and Black were still available on the Nova. Not sure about the Ivory color...

-wilma</span>

[JamesinHBCA]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: WILMASBOYL78</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: RobR</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Sam, in January 1968 Chevy dropped the colors palomino ivory, Grecian green, fathom blue and tuxedo black. They then added rally green, Corvette bronze, Lemans blue, and British green. Rob. </div></div>

<span style="font-size: 11pt">Maybe on some models...but Fathom Blue, GG and Black were still available on the Nova. Not sure about the Ivory color...

-wilma</span></div></div>

RobR forgot to mention that standard color change was for the Camaro only. It's pretty well documented with letters to the dealer and other sales literature. The dropped colors, as well as other GM colors where still available via special order and would have - - paint codes. This car was ordered regular paint code UU LeMans Blue, as it was after the January change.

[RobR]

Yes, you are correct Tom. What I should've said in my post is that those color changes applies to the Camaro model. I am not sure about the full-size cars and other model Chevys, Rob.

[Fast67VelleN2O]

This car is worth 20k at a minimum all day.

[luzl78]

Echo that. It'll sell 25,000-30,000

[scott s]

I dont know but sombody post the sellers info and lets see how long it lasts <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/naughty.gif

[Ryan1969Chevelle]

Is it anywhere close to me?

Looks darn cool!!!

Ryan

Very similar car to the 68 L78/L89 LeMans Blue Camaro we had in the L89 display at MCACN a few years ago. The 68 is cool as there are so many 69's it catches your eye:-) not casting shade as 1969 is my MuscleCar year!!!

[Spike]

Very cool car!

Sad thing is in its current condition its probably worth more in parts than together!

Hopefully the right guy buys it and does the car justice with a correct restoration.

I agree with Ryan a 68 just pops in a world dominated by 69's

[SuperNovaSS]

What's with all the current condition and &quot;worth more in parts&quot; comments. Are there other pictures I am not seeing? The car looks like it could be pretty solid in the pictures I see. Yes, if you hire everything out you will always be behind on value. Looks like an awesome car.


Jason

[Spike]

I wasn't disrespecting anyone or the car with parts comments and if I did I apologize.

But I know from experience with my L78 Chevelle restoration that doing the right thing with NOS and correct parts is extremely expensive.

Even if you did most of the work yourself it would still be a very expensive undertaking.

But I hope someone buys it and restores it to its former glory!

[cook_dw]

https://static.slickdealscdn.com/images/smilies2/soap.gif

This shouldnt always be a X's and O's decision.. Sometimes it just needs to be a labor of love and/or a passion.. This is a fantastic starting point for someone wanting a legit born with L78 car to restore. Heck Id rather see it made running, driving and safe and enjoyed if you cant afford a restoration right away.. These cars should not be locked up or put up on pedestals but driven and enjoyed!! I dont care if I had a 1 of 1 or a 68 Motion Camaro or a magical unicorn; I would drive the thing and be happy..

<span style="font-style: italic"><span style="font-weight: bold">Rant off..</span></span>

[Ryan1969Chevelle]

Go Darrell:-)

I am taking this path as we speak and am 100% confident my scratched up unicorn (1 of 106, or 1 of 7) will be fun and fun and fun, followed by some fun:-)
Ryan

[EZ Nova]

Ok I know you guys didn't like my &quot;thought process&quot; when I said that I feel this car is $15K as it sits.

But when one looks at something done like this one here from this site:

http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/ubbthrea...peed#Post693447 (http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/ubbthreads.php/topics/693447/1968-ss-rs-396-camaro-4-speed#Post693447)

Now YES it's not the &quot;born-with&quot; engine, but still ASKING $42K and possibly be a L89? Yes I could see this car being down what 50% or $20K for not the &quot;born with&quot; engine. Even at a $30K discount, that would put this RS/SS at the $70K range DONE. I bet a nice top-end resto like this RS/SS above would be around $60K alone??? So you would be way upside down.

BUT I will say that my thought processes do NOT take into consideration the &quot;emotion&quot; of people towards a car? Like my &quot;brother HAD one like this&quot; or &quot;I wanted one, just couldn't swing it&quot; type of emotions.

[WILMASBOYL78]

<span style="font-size: 11pt">One of the major decisions on restoring a car like this will be choosing repro or OEM sheet metal. Sourcing the real stuff is a lot of work and generally very expensive...opening a catalog is fast and certainly much less expensive.

As for the emotional choices versus costs and future value I have only one answer.

If this hobby was strictly about the 'return on investment' there wouldn't be an SYC site to have this discussion on.

The defense rests <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/flag.gif </span>

[JamesinHBCA]

Car is running now. A video and more information was posted on the Camaro board.

1968 Camaro L78 Running (https://whitetrevorwhite.sharefile.com/share?#/view/sc7f5d68da364d7b8)

15K won't buy this car. Seller is looking for closer to 25K USD. May go to ebay soon.
Car is located in Ottawa Canada.

Serious buyers can contact the seller through TC, or PM me if you can't get a hold of him there.

[luzl78]

He will absolutely get at least 25,000 for it if not more. Car has too much provenance not to be able to be sold for that

[scott s]

#s matching solid lifter car and factory paperwork= $$$$$$ thats the difference from the other one posted. The other car is a great car no doubt but there is lots of supposed real 375 cars with slick paint jobs forsale at any given time,but real cars with #s and real paperwork and unrestored are hens teeth anymore heck its almost 50 yrs old!! <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/3gears.gif

[orbit orange70]

And its an M22 car!

[JRSully]

and a 4:10 rear. This would be a steal for a body shop owner as that's where the majority of your $$ will go on this one! Neat car though, cannot be too many made in this combo.?

[SeattleCarGuy]

If it were closer to Seattle, I'd snatch it up in a heartbeat for $20k and stash it in my garage before my wife ever saw it.

[earntaz]

Damn -- now somebody else knows my plans??!@#? TAZ

[black69]

I think the real market price for L78 novas is not where many of us think it should be, look at the cream puff recently at BJ, super car workshop restored. I think a 68 L78 camaro is in that same boat in a sense, the market price is not what many of us think. If we think its worth north of 25K all day long, reality is likely south of 25K. It is not a 69 camaro, and they suck the money out of the room first. What is left goes towards cars like this. Its the reality I see.

South of 25K is the price I think it really is. Probably 20K. Car was not stored well, who even knows if the engine is not bored to the point it can't be rebuilt one more time. Back in the day, people pushed the bore on a 396 to make it closer to a 427 as best they could.

[EZ Nova]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: black69</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I think the real market price for L78 novas is not where many of us think it should be, look at the cream puff recently at BJ, super car workshop restored. I think a 68 L78 camaro is in that same boat in a sense, the market price is not what many of us think. If we think its worth north of 25K all day long, reality is likely south of 25K. It is not a 69 camaro, and they suck the money out of the room first. What is left goes towards cars like this. Its the reality I see.

South of 25K is the price I think it really is. Probably 20K. Car was not stored well, who even knows if the engine is not bored to the point it can't be rebuilt one more time. Back in the day, people pushed the bore on a 396 to make it closer to a 427 as best they could.

</div></div>

^^^^^Exactly. Our &quot;feeling&quot; where the market &quot;should&quot; doesn't mean where it is. The market sets the market price, not us. Just go back and look at the BJ thread and how people were saying the market is soft? There were plenty of &quot;deals&quot; or &quot;smolin deals&quot; that were present during this years BJ Scotsdale show.

&quot;Tom William's old L78 Nova with a Henderson restoration did $67k. No love for a real Nova&quot;

This was posted by Charlie in that thread:
&quot; Lot 1016.1 - 1970 CHEVROLET CHEVELLE LS6
$66,000.00* No Reserve Scottsdale 2017
Excellent condition. Matching-numbers LS6 454/450hp engine with a 4-speed manual transmission. One repaint. In the LS6 Registry, photocopy of the Build Sheet and documented owner history. From the Charlie Thomas Collection&quot;

So lets see, from a buys point of view, pay 66K plus fees and be done with it NOW and driving LS6 or pay 25K and go through the resto on this Camaro??? Granted there was also some &quot;issues&quot; possibly with this LS6, but still and LS6 and numbers matching.

But like I said in that thread, I think BJ other shows, like Florida or Indy, numbers will be even softer???

Sorry just sorta a &quot;trend&quot;? Money seems to be going resto mod style now, or mod trucks!!!!! The muscle car might have reached it's peak as only us die-hards are really going after them. The &quot;new money&quot; wants a truck or resto mod, the money has shown it's favour in these that people can drive and use more, at this time anyway.

Look at Kendig's VW van!!!!! $302,000+ one could by a Yenko Chevelle, Camaro or a couple of Deuces, or a Boss 429 for that?

[cook_dw]

http://www.camaros.net/forums/66-whats-w...sitraction.html (http://www.camaros.net/forums/66-whats-worth/423250-canadian-documented-68ss-m22-396-375hp-positraction.html)




<span style="font-weight: bold"><span style="font-style: italic">Quote from above thread over at Team Camaro..</span></span>



<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: JJW68</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I actually have a deal pending, just putting together the terms of sale. Don't want to involve that in the thread here or the particulars, and if it goes through, I will indicate that it did. just want to make sure i have my bases covered.</div></div>

[black69]

someone needs to start a chevy version of Graveyard cars, and then start the first episode with this cool camaro. What a challenge. It would have to be someone good like Supercar workshop....now that would be a show I would watch...someone that knows what they are doing to bring a car like this back from the dead.

[scott s]

Well i can tell u its selling for north of 25k ,know he was offered more and has a deal pending.

[luzl78]

told ya. car has so much going for it. just needs to be loved by a passionate body/paint man

[black69]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: JamesinHBCA</div><div class="ubbcode-body">

15K won't buy this car. Seller is looking for closer to 25K USD. May go to ebay soon.
Car is located in Ottawa Canada.
</div></div>

To me, this earlier statement of closer to 25K does not imply greater than 25K, I read that as less than 25K or on the money. If it did sell for more, I am happier that would be the outcome, I am an L78 fan, I have 2 of them (a 65 and a 69).

[EZ Nova]

GUYS, just like to add:

Just because I think it's too high or not worth it for me, doesn't mean I think or feel any less for someone who thinks it's not. NO HARD feelings on my part.

GLWS and hope you do well too.

[JamesinHBCA]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: JamesinHBCA</div><div class="ubbcode-body">

15K won't buy this car. Seller is looking for closer to 25K USD. May go to ebay soon.
Car is located in Ottawa Canada.
</div></div>

To me, this earlier statement of closer to 25K does not imply greater than 25K, I read that as less than 25K or on the money. If it did sell for more, I am happier that would be the outcome, I am an L78 fan, I have 2 of them (a 65 and a 69).


In this case , the seller was only getting local offers in the 15K Canadian range until these boards generated a little more exposure.

Sometimes you get more than you ask for with multiple offers when your selling expectations are realistic.

[scuncio]

I just got back from a 24 hour road trip to buy this car. It is COOL...even has most of the original exhaust on it. There is rust, but it's all fixable....

https://photos.smugmug.com/Cars/1968-L78-Camaro/i-kKDqjxM/0/X2/IMG_4808-X2.jpg

[PeteLeathersac]

'

Cool news, congrats Tony!
:beers:
~ Pete

.

[scott s]

great buy.....i really liked that car....

[mockingbird812]

Nice score Tony! Has all the right tickets punched! Keep us updated on your progress.

[scuncio]

Thank you guys.

[Jonesy]

congrats on the buy. That's a great car.

[cook_dw]

Congrats..!!.. When you have time please send me some of the info on the car for my registry..

[69LM1]

Nice.... It will be a looker when done...
R

[chevyman0429]

Tony if you don't mind me asking what's your plans for the beauty.

[scuncio]

Thanks a lot guys.

Mike, the plan is to get it driving and just collect NOS parts for it to restore down the road. Will probably end up selling my 68 Z to justify restoring this thing.

Darrell, let me know what info you want and I'll get it to you.

[67BelAir427]

You come up here to Ontario to bring the good ones back, and I come down to your place in Michigan to drag em back to Canada. You and I might have to renegotiate this NAFTA deal Tony ! Nice car. You always find the good ones

[neresto]

Great purchase Tony, congrats

[L78 Fred]

Tony
I have original trunk pans and floors as well as NOS door skins, interior parts as well as other 68 items if interested
Best wishes with this new project!
I like it
L78Fred
610-585-4155

[scuncio]

Yeah Marc, and the border was way simpler than the bureaucratic process I was dreading. I think you went through a lot more paperwork to get that Biscayne to Ontario than I did getting the Camaro here.

Thanks Mike, appreciate it!

Sure Fred, I will keep that in mind for sure. I'd like to go NOS or assembly-line parts everywhere, no repop stuff for this car if I can help it.

[1967Z28]

Congrats, Tony. That's a cool car. Sorry to hear you may have to let the Z go to get this one done.

[scuncio]

Thanks, Jon! I'm trying to keep everything including the Z, but the garage is REALLY tight with everything parked under one roof.

[scuncio]

I need to find a Belisle Motors dealer emblem (I can see the holes on the tail panel where it once was) but in the meantime I was happy to find this, in France of all places:

Belisle Motors Keychain (http://ebay.to/2nZLlbL)

http://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/sS0AAOSwwpdW7qgP/s-l1600.jpg

[L78M22Rag]

Thanks a lot guys.

Mike, the plan is to get it driving and just collect NOS parts for it to restore down the road. Will probably end up selling my 68 Z to justify restoring this thing.

Congrats Tony,
Really glad to see this Camaro go to a good home. I look forward to seeing updates on the car as you get it running, driving and enjoying it. I'm sure she'll get a lot of attention.

That car is right up my alley!!!

[Xplantdad]

I just got back from a 24 hour road trip to buy this car. It is COOL...even has most of the original exhaust on it. There is rust, but it's all fixable....

https://photos.smugmug.com/Cars/1968-L78-Camaro/i-kKDqjxM/0/X2/IMG_4808-X2.jpg

Very cool....somehow I missed this post!:biggthumpup:

[scuncio]

Thanks Helmut, thanks Bruce, I'm stoked.

[Xplantdad]

As you should be!:worship:

[scuncio]

The original interior is actually quite nice. Seats and front door panels are absolutely flawless, dash has never been messed with, headliner is pristine, etc. Needs some localized floor work and rust repair at the base of windshield.

Look closely and you can see the original radio blockoff plate that has been drilled and cut for an aftermarket 8-track player...UGH!

https://photos.smugmug.com/Cars/1968-L78-Camaro/i-kqQw54W/0/X2/IMG_4805-X2.jpg

[markinnaples]

That thing is bad azz.

[RPOLS3]

Nice score Tony, congratulations!

[firstgenaddict]

Hey tony speaking of the Z... and it's original colors... I found some pics of a survivor original palamino ivory over ivy gold interior convert...

[BJCHEV396]

I need to find a Belisle Motors dealer emblem (I can see the holes on the tail panel where it once was) but in the meantime I was happy to find this, in France of all places:

Belisle Motors Keychain (http://ebay.to/2nZLlbL)

http://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/sS0AAOSwwpdW7qgP/s-l1600.jpgI live in Ottawa.I'll keep my eyes open for you this Summer.Belisle's was a dealership owned by 2 or 3 generations of the Belisle family.My parents bought a couple of Cadillacs there.Closed about 5-6 years ago.

[scuncio]

Thanks Mark and Jake!

James, wow, that color combo is definitely an acquired taste. I just wish the gold interior was less green and more gold....

Bill, that would be GREAT...I would love to find a dealer emblem for the car. Thanks in advance!

[BJCHEV396]

Tony I just posted ads in 2 local car forums looking for a Belisle emblem for you.

[scuncio]

Thanks, Bill!

[BJCHEV396]

Tony a friend of mine knows a mechanic who worked at Belisle.He's going to call him for me.I'll let you know.

[scuncio]

Great. Hope he has an emblem stashed away!

[scuncio]

The original owner's son was nice enough to send a few 'baby pictures' of the old L78....

https://photos.smugmug.com/Cars/1968-L78-Camaro/i-VR27jw5/0/O/Vintage%2068%202.png

https://photos.smugmug.com/Cars/1968-L78-Camaro/i-CjhFcHn/0/O/Vintage%2068%201.png

https://photos.smugmug.com/Cars/1968-L78-Camaro/i-N4JWtKw/0/O/Vintage%2068%203.png

[Ryan1969Chevelle]

Jackpot!!!

Love those license plates:-)

They look like 1973 Ontario "Keep it Beautiful" plates. The stickers started in 73 but these don't look to have a sticker on it?

Here is a picture of mine/Al's, the sticker is 1976.

Ryan

[cook_dw]

Bitchin' Keystones!!!

[scuncio]

Pretty cool, right? I think the original steelies and dog dish caps must have been off the car an hour after the OO took delivery.

Ryan, you're correct, those are 1973 Ontario plates....

[Xplantdad]

Tony....go to http://www.licenseplates.tv/1973-ontario-license-plate-embossed-with-your-custom-number.html?cPath=1065_2_982_1352&


And get a reproduction plate of the original number :)

[olredalert]

----They were really changing wheels around, werent they? 1st pic look like MT's, 2nd look like Keystones, 3rd are Cragers.......Bill S

[BJCHEV396]

The original owner's son was nice enough to send a few 'baby pictures' of the old L78....

https://photos.smugmug.com/Cars/1968-L78-Camaro/i-VR27jw5/0/O/Vintage%2068%202.png

https://photos.smugmug.com/Cars/1968-L78-Camaro/i-CjhFcHn/0/O/Vintage%2068%201.png

https://photos.smugmug.com/Cars/1968-L78-Camaro/i-N4JWtKw/0/O/Vintage%2068%203.png

I'm racking my brain trying to figure out where those pics were taken...LOL!

[JRC99]

The original owner's son was nice enough to send a few 'baby pictures' of the old L78....

https://photos.smugmug.com/Cars/1968-L78-Camaro/i-N4JWtKw/0/O/Vintage%2068%203.png

That's just THE look to me. Man, I love it.

[Ryan1969Chevelle]

When this car popped up there were a few people commenting about how much restoration it needed, etc but it looks like a killer to me..... with Killer Canadian docs:-)

Love it, especially that it is a 68:--) a little different:-)

Ryan

[BJCHEV396]

Back in the day the place to street race here in Ottawa was Carling Avenue.This Camaro must have been a brute stop light to stop light!

[scuncio]

Yes, the original owner was definitely into changing up the wheel and tire combo. The car currently has the same set of Cragars that were in the vintage front 3/4 shot picture.

Bill, it's funny you mention Carling Avenue...we drove past that street on the way to the bank, and he mentioned his parents street racing there back in the day! Small world. The two driveway pics are in front of his parents' old house in Ottawa. I don't know where the other pic on redline tires was taken....

Overall the car isn't too bad in terms of rust, just the usual Camaro problem areas.

[scuncio]

And get a reproduction plate of the original number :)

Bruce...the previous owner still had both of those plates...but I knew they had sentimental value to him, so I didn't ask. I may scrounge up some 1968 Ontario plates on Ebay....

[Xplantdad]

Bruce...the previous owner still had both of those plates...but I knew they had sentimental value to him, so I didn't ask. I may scrounge up some 1968 Ontario plates on Ebay....


Cool! :)

[Ryan1969Chevelle]

You can buy YOM Year Of manufacturer plates here:-)

We can even use license them here in Canada.

Ryan

http://yomplates.ca/#search/year-1968/vehicletype-Car+or+Truck/

[firstgenaddict]

I like the Rader wheels with the redlines...

[SuperNovaSS]

Congrats on the purchase.

Jason

[scuncio]

Thanks Jason!

[scuncio]

The original owner's son is getting pics made of some old slides he found of the car. I feel really fortunate that he has been so helpful in pulling together the history of the car.

Time to start buying metal for this car. Does anyone make a replacement dash with a correct speaker grille? There is quite a bit of rust at the base of the windshield.

Thanks!

[BJCHEV396]

My friend got a Belisle emblem for you Tony.Just have to set up a time to pick it up.

[scuncio]

THANK YOU!!!! I'm stoked!

[BJCHEV396]

He lives out of town so might be a week or so till we meet up.I'll let you know when I get it and you can PM your address.

[scuncio]

Sounds great, I will PM you now.

[BJCHEV396]

OK got your info.The emblem is the same as the pic of the key chain fob....BELISLE OTTAWA.

[scuncio]

Perfect, from my research that's the correct emblem for the era.

[BJCHEV396]

Gonna pick up the emblem this week Tony.

[scuncio]

Can't wait!!

[BJCHEV396]

Can't wait!!

Here's your emblem Tony.Chrome is nice and the 3 mounting studs are perfect?Will ship Friday.

[Jonesy]

what a perfect emblem.

[scuncio]

Unreal, and the pattern looks the same as what's drilled into the tail panel.

Bill, you are a gentleman...I am so excited to put it on the car.

[mockingbird812]

boom! wonderful that you have that great detail piece in such nice condition!

[cook_dw]

:headbang:

[BJCHEV396]

There's a few very small blisters on the chrome but I would rate it a 7-8 out of 10.For it's age it's in damn good shape!PM sent Tony.

[L78M22Rag]

This is a great site... congrats Tony!

[DW31S]

Congrats on the purchase and I LOVE the '68s myself. To make a comparison with one LS-6 at B-J that sold on the cheap, to me isn't an accurate assessment of the market. There was also one that did almost $100,000 MORE! So how can you justify that comparison. And to compare it to the $42,000 Rallye Green car is another "apples to oranges" thing. I happen to like Rallye Greem, but I bet I'm in the moniority and my memory is telling me that car had no tissue; maybe this, maybe that. I'm not knocking the Green car, I like it. I can't see this car, but nobody on this site makes mistakes when it comes to cars and/or money, (or we wouldn't have either). I LOVE the Cragars and IMO, they need to be put back on after resto.
Again, congrats on the purchase and please keep us well informed of any progress. Please post any "parts needed"--I'll gladly part with something I'm not using.

[BJCHEV396]

Just boxed the emblem to ship tomorrow.There are no marks on the studs or any grime or crud on the chrome....I don't think this emblem has ever been mounted!?

[PeteLeathersac]

'

What an awesome piece, kudos to Bill for making it all happen!
:beers:
~ Pete

.

[scuncio]

Major kudos to Bill...this site is the best!

[scuncio]

Thanks for the post - I bought the car because it was an unrestored original-owner solid-lifter car with paper, which are becoming so rare these days. Because it's never been restored or significantly modified, I think it will be a pretty straightforward restoration. The more I get into it, the more surprised I am at how untouched it really is.

Congrats on the purchase and I LOVE the '68s myself. To make a comparison with one LS-6 at B-J that sold on the cheap, to me isn't an accurate assessment of the market. There was also one that did almost $100,000 MORE! So how can you justify that comparison. And to compare it to the $42,000 Rallye Green car is another "apples to oranges" thing. I happen to like Rallye Greem, but I bet I'm in the moniority and my memory is telling me that car had no tissue; maybe this, maybe that. I'm not knocking the Green car, I like it. I can't see this car, but nobody on this site makes mistakes when it comes to cars and/or money, (or we wouldn't have either). I LOVE the Cragars and IMO, they need to be put back on after resto.
Again, congrats on the purchase and please keep us well informed of any progress. Please post any "parts needed"--I'll gladly part with something I'm not using.

[cook_dw]

Lol I had to go back a couple pages to figure out wtf he was talking about.. I read green car and my antennae went on high alert.. :grin: People are gonna have opinions. Regardless you made a great decision on a great car. Idk what you paid and I dont care. As long as you & the seller felt it was a fair price that is all that matters. Keep the pics rolling..




Maybe one day our green & blue cars will meet and create cyan.. https://media.giphy.com/media/h4Z6RfuQycdiM/giphy.gif Yeah well ok that didnt come out like I wanted it to sound..





BUT it would be cool to see them side by side..


http://i.imgur.com/9RhCWsL.gif?noredirect that sounded better..

[BJCHEV396]

'

What an awesome piece, kudos to Bill for making it all happen!
:beers:
~ Pete

.Thanks Pete.

[mockingbird812]

Lol I had to go back a couple pages to figure out wtf he was talking about.. I read green car and my antennae went on high alert.. :grin: People are gonna have opinions. Regardless you made a great decision on a great car. Idk what you paid and I dont care. As long as you & the seller felt it was a fair price that is all that matters. Keep the pics rolling..




Maybe one day our green & blue cars will meet and create cyan.. https://media.giphy.com/media/h4Z6RfuQycdiM/giphy.gif Yeah well ok that didnt come out like I wanted it to sound..





BUT it would be cool to see them side by side..


http://i.imgur.com/9RhCWsL.gif?noredirect that sounded better..

We both know I'm training to be cage fighter!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[cook_dw]

http://www.lolriot.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/Napoleon-Dynamite-GIF-Kip-Rex-Kwon-Do.gif

[scuncio]

Darrell, those pics...unreal

Did I overpay for the car? Possibly, but that's my problem, don't anyone lose any sleep over it.... ;-)

[mr 707]

68 with REAL Documents and a solid lifter monster. congrats

[Lynn]

Been out of the loop for a while.

Great car with great upside. Assuming you don't find any major rust through (and doesn't look like you have), no down side.

Even though I have a 69, I prefer the sleek look of the 68. Can't beat that color.

Congrats on a great find. Did you "overpay"? Who knows. I know a guy who was severely chided by some colleagues in 1988 for paying $15k for a very tight and right 69 Z/28 with all born with components. Don't know if he still has that car, but can guarantee you that if he does, he likely has received many times over his $15k in fun factor.

Looking forward to progress pics.

[BJCHEV396]

Doesn't matter if anyone overpayed for a car....as long as you are happy with the car.And it's nobody else's business!

[Ryan1969Chevelle]

I haven't read every word to understand this perfectly...... great introduction for a stupid comment........ nope:-)

I love this car, love the options, love the documentation and history, and it needs some metal....... the asking price seemed fair based on the tremendous up side!!!

Enjoy

I hope we get to see the metal work bit by bit!!

Ryan

[DW31S]

Compared to what other cars are being offered for, I say no. My father always told me to buy the best car with what money you have to spend. That still rings true to this day especially with rock solid documentation and indisputable pedigree. At that particular time, that particular car, was worth that particular amount of money to that particular buyer or the transaction would not have taken place. I don't think you CAN overpay for the right car.

[njsteve]

Been out of the loop for a while.

Congrats on a great find. Did you "overpay"? Who knows. I know a guy who was severely chided by some colleagues in 1988 for paying $15k for a very tight and right 69 Z/28 with all born with components. Don't know if he still has that car, but can guarantee you that if he does, he likely has received many times over his $15k in fun factor.


I remember being severely chided for paying $24,000 in 1986 for a yellow and white 1971 Hemicuda convertible that needed paintwork. Everyone thought I was crazy. And when I sold it a year and a half later, after the restoration for double that amount, they all yelled at me for taking advantage of poor, old, Otis Chandler.....

[scuncio]

This car was somewhat of an impulse buy for me, but the money was available and I decided this would be more fun than sticking it into the stock market like I would have otherwise done. I passed on an original owner '69 L78 car a few years ago and it has haunted me ever since, and I decided this was a good way to close the loop on that story.

[BJCHEV396]

Any updated pics Tony?

[scuncio]

I'm working on pics...soon!

[brent396]

Great car Tony keep the pics rolling

[mockingbird812]

Great car Tony keep the pics rolling


What Brent said!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[scuncio]

Taught my 3 year old how to change the oil...oil smelled a little gassy but looked OK.

We discovered the fuel line was plugged somewhere in the sending unit assembly. I will send that out to be restored. Does anyone have any advice on how to clean the original gas tank? I'm sure it's pretty bad inside.

https://photos.smugmug.com/Cars/1968-L78-Camaro/i-SZ6JKx9/0/b0755703/M/IMG_0073-M.jpg

[69SSZL1]

Take the gas tank to a radiator shop. They will boil it out for $50 or so, its worth it.

[Bill Pritchard]

Wow, I dropped off of this thread back when there was a bunch of arguing about what it was worth.....nice to see it's found a good home! Congrats Tony.

If you need your fuel tank sending unit restored, I would highly recommend John Wolf & Co. in Willoughby OH. They were recommended to me by someone on this great site, and I was not disappointed.

[BJCHEV396]

Glad to see this thread up and going again Tony!

[cwc]

I had a 70 chevelle a few years ago,the fuel tank had some rust but wasn't too bad.i bought about a gallon of pea gravel,made sure it was clean and dumped it in the tank and worked it around a few times and it done wonders

[scuncio]

Thanks guys.

I finally got the dealer emblem installed, just opened up the old holes that had been brazed shut. I like it!

https://photos.smugmug.com/Cars/1968-L78-Camaro/i-QfLD7dS/0/be5de677/X2/IMG_0123-X2.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/Cars/1968-L78-Camaro/i-CZw4NZt/0/f5421de1/X2/IMG_0124-X2.jpg

[scuncio]

Appreciate the advice on the fuel system. I will be shipping the sending unit to John Wolf & Co this week.

[mockingbird812]

Nice Tony!

[scuncio]

Thanks! It's motivation to get going on the bigger projects.

[BJCHEV396]

Thanks guys.

I finally got the dealer emblem installed, just opened up the old holes that had been brazed shut. I like it!

https://photos.smugmug.com/Cars/1968-L78-Camaro/i-QfLD7dS/0/be5de677/X2/IMG_0123-X2.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/Cars/1968-L78-Camaro/i-CZw4NZt/0/f5421de1/X2/IMG_0124-X2.jpg

Lookin good!Hope the project ahead isn't getting you down Tony.It will be worth it in the end!

[6667ss138]

Just read this thread for the first time. Great story and great car!! Can't wait for more pics and updates.
Congrats Tony!!

[scuncio]

Thank you!!

Still collecting NOS sheet metal. I've been able to score some decent deals but it takes time....

[firstgenaddict]

POR makes a gas tank sealer which will withstand ethanol gasolines. I did a 36 FORD tank and a 64 Vette Tank with the two cans in the kit. We etched the insides of the tanks using OSPHO before starting. My Dad's 40 Ford Woodie Wagon's tank has been done for close to 20 years and is driven 1000 miles a year we have never had a problem from the tank.

[scuncio]

Good to know James, I will have a look. Thanks!

[scuncio]

Got this one running and driving and had it out a little today. The ancient Cragars were so corroded they are likely a lost cause, so I installed some 1969 vintage E-T 15x6 5-spokes.

Been collecting parts and have everything NOS except the passenger fender.

I took a chance buying the car sight unseen but it turned out to be one of the better deals I've come upon. It's like it was parked in 1969 and never worked on since...so much original stuff I've never seen on a first-gen.

https://photos.smugmug.com/Cars/1968-L78-Camaro/i-DnkQBQ6/0/b2b83f75/X2/8262D7C8-6055-46D9-8057-89E37F56B656-X2.jpg

[JRC99]

Man, that's cool. Those mags look great

[scuncio]

Thanks! They were purchased new by a woman who put them on her 1965 Corvette in 1969. I was lucky enough to be in the right place at the right time when the 2nd owner was selling them to put the factory steel wheels and hubcaps back on the car.

[NorCam]

More pics...more pics. :biggthumpup:

[scuncio]

Need to add some updates to this post - I'll work on that over the weekend.

In the meantime, there was some discussion elsewhere on the site about the 'early' Hurst 4-speed shifter - here's how it ends up looking when installed.

https://photos.smugmug.com/Cars/1968-L78-Camaro/i-9jrgfq2/0/b9fdf37a/O/D5FA2E90-F2F6-4064-811D-4792C818FF38.jpg

[Billohio]

I recognize that garage!!

[L78racer]

Looks Great ! ! !

[mockingbird812]

Digging it Tony!!! :drool:

[NorCam]

I thought that car would have been painted by now? Get on it. (lol)

[scuncio]

I was waiting for you to say that. :)

[Too Many Projects]

I don't know Tony, that Hurst shifter just doesn't look right in there. I think you should find a vintage Muncie for that car.
I would be happy to help you out and buy the Hurst for a few dollars to put towards a right fender...https://www.yenko.net/forum/cache.php?img=https%3A%2F%2Fs3.amazonaws.com%2Femo ticon.activeboard.com%2F49792%3FAWSAccessKeyId%3D1 XXJBWHKN0QBQS6TGPG2%26amp%3BExpires%3D1617408000%2 6amp%3BSignature%3Db1DPY3249izhc0UxVrHo3oqLgak%253 D

Speaking of a fender, that is about the last thing you need to procure, blow that car apart and get started on the major body repairs...https://www.yenko.net/forum/cache.php?img=https%3A%2F%2Fs3.amazonaws.com%2Femo ticon.activeboard.com%2F50393%3FAWSAccessKeyId%3D1 XXJBWHKN0QBQS6TGPG2%26amp%3BExpires%3D1617408000%2 6amp%3BSignature%3DUVuNh2o0VYAL2%252Fd9p79kv84t5As %253D

[Pro Stock John]

Great purchase.

Restoring cars is not always about the cost, some friends enjoy saving and preserving rare cars.

I'm curious, when do you guys decide to swap a fender out vs fix what you have, question is mainly directed at the owner.

[Too Many Projects]

Tony, this is where I got my '67 left hand rs fender. Good guy to work with. He will pack and ship, if you don't want to make the drive.


Camaro Specialties
112 Elm Street, East Aurora, NY
Discontinued NOS GM Sheetmetal – current inventory updated 11/2/2020

NOS 68 Right hand standard fender Part #3941967 $1,495.00

[scuncio]

Thanks guys, I actually found a nos fender for it locally last year, so I am set on metal. Not sure if I’m going to look for GM cutoffs to fix the weak areas on the floor, or go repop.

John, hey I remember you from chitownracing. To your question, this fender is too far gone IMO as it’s rusty at both the front edge and rear dogleg area where they typically get bad. Just not worth the trouble! I think I paid $500 for the NOS piece so it’s a no brainer for me.

[Too Many Projects]

$500 for an NOS fender ???? I'm going to have you start finding my parts ...:worship:
Some repop floor pans are a pretty good match to original and can be blended in quite well. I can't imagine finding 1st gen Camaro/Firebird pans without buying a whole rust free body.

[Pro Stock John]

Thanks guys, I actually found a nos fender for it locally last year, so I am set on metal. Not sure if I’m going to look for GM cutoffs to fix the weak areas on the floor, or go repop.

John, hey I remember you from chitownracing. To your question, this fender is too far gone IMO as it’s rusty at both the front edge and rear dogleg area where they typically get bad. Just not worth the trouble! I think I paid $500 for the NOS piece so it’s a no brainer for me.

What's up that was a good site. Good luck with the resto, car looks great in the pics.

[Too Many Projects]

I was waiting for you to say that. :)


I think we should schedule a tech session for May, when it warms up there in MI...:grin:
Get 4 guys with battery impacts and we could have that down to a bare tub on a weekend.:headbang: