1968 Yenko Camaro YS# 8011

[427freak]

Before buying this car, I went on this site and enlisted the help of several members to make sure I was secure. This was not a $3k barn find. It was found in the middle of the desert but the owner knew what it was and I paid a fair value. I want to especially thank Charley, TC and Mark for their help.
Here is the story as it was told to me.
The car was owned by a sailor in the Navy stationed in the San Diego area. It was originally purchased at Jay Kline Chevrolet in Mn. I do not know how it came to Calif., but maybe him being in the service had something to do with it. The person in San Diego owned the car until about the mid 80's. I do not know how long he owned it before this time or if he was the original owner. Sometime in the mid 80's he took parts off of the car and called a wrecking yard and had it towed away. Bad move. It was actually on the back of the wrecker on it's way to the crusher when a couple of young guys stumbled across it parked in front of a fast food restaraunt, luckily the truck driver got hungry just at that time or the car would have been lost forever. The guys recognized the badges and realized the car should be saved and made a deal to buy the car on the spot for cash, cheap. The driver dumped the car on the spot and it was dragged home. Later, one of them needed transportation and traded it for a $1700. running car, believe it or not I think the car was a mustang. That is how the guy that I bought it from acquired the car. He took it to the desert and covered it and there it has remained until now. Some interesting notes about the car. When my seller got the car it had most of it's external badges intact. He was going through a divorce and actually took all of the badges off of the back panel, fender and glove box so the car wouldn't be taken by his ex-wife. That is why you can see the outlines of the badges on the car. The badges are in his garage somewhere. They were pretty crusty but we are going to find them. The car is in not bad condition considering it's been drag raced hard and sat in the desert for the last 20 years. There are a few small rust holes in the drivers front pan and the rear fender lips are messed up from big tires. The paint on the car is original including the stripes. The drivers side fender is missing. The hood was gone but my seller acquired an orig. after years of searching. It has the 140 speedo, big front swaybar, Yenko door jamb tag, Yenko type cowl tag and the seller is digging out the tach and sending unit, along with some other parts he stowed away. You can see the holes in the cowl for the sending unit. The car has a dash dash paint code on the tag but is painted Deepwater Blue. A 67 color. This was also verified by Vince Emme over the phone. The interior was std black. The Yenko tag on the fenders is over the old SS holes, not above the Camaro emblem. There was no raingutter trim or top of the door trim. The rear panel was never black. It did have a SS gas cap. It did not have spoilers. It came with PS and PDB. I and a few others have known about this car for years but I happen to be talking to the owner when he said he wanted to sell it. After a couple of weeks of talking we struck a deal. The car is now in my garage awaiting restoration. When I got it home I opened the trunk and there was a live rat still living in there. There is a picture of him to follow. He is now with Don Yenko. We dubbed the car The Desert Rat. If anyone recognizes this car or has any information about it's history I would be greatly indebted to them. There is still a Navy sticker on the back lower part of the car. I am a Bowtie fanatic and I am glad to bring this car back and put it in it's glory. Sorry I ran long but I know people like the story. I tried putting a pic but it was a little too big.

[68l30]

http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif Congrats on your find! Another 68 found and saved..... http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/headbang.gif


Steve http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[427freak]

Thanks. I sent some pics to Charley, when I hunt him down I will have him help me get them up. It is not pretty but I love it.

[68l30]

SWEET......Love those as found pics. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/Can-I-Have-It.gif


Steve http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[sYc]

Glad to help... look forward to seeing it at a SCR.

[427freak]

A long haul but I would love to go.

[Alss]

Cool story..congrats and good luck with the restoration.

ALbert

[mssl72]

Whoooo-hooooo!!! Awesome! Drinks for everybody! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/worship.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/worship.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[camarojoe]

Awesome story... can't wait to see the pics. Interesting that the Yenko emblems were put on in place of the SS emblems. This does not surprise me, as Don didn't really want the cars to be viewed as Super Sports, but rather as Yenko Sportscars. I'd be willing to bet there were other 68's done like that originally. It was common for him to remove SS badging and replace with his own, as seen in the early 69 Yenko Nova pics in another thread. Does the SS gas cap show any signs of being painted/blacked out? Odd that the rear panel wasn't painted black... likely due to the special order paint color. Did I mention I can't wait to see pics? http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/cool.gif

[Charley Lillard]

Proud new owner wondering what he has gotten himself into... http://www.yenko.net/attachments/203366-tn_yenko68037.jpg

[Charley Lillard]

. http://www.yenko.net/attachments/203367-tn_yenko68006.jpg

[Charley Lillard]

. http://www.yenko.net/attachments/203369-tn_yenko68001.jpg

[camarojoe]

Awesome find!!! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif I do think that's a repro cactus though...

[Charley Lillard]

. http://www.yenko.net/attachments/203371-tn_yenko68033.jpg

[Charley Lillard]

. http://www.yenko.net/attachments/203372-tn_yenko68038.jpg

[Charley Lillard]

. http://www.yenko.net/attachments/203373-tn_yenko68041.jpg

[Charley Lillard]

. http://www.yenko.net/attachments/203374-tn_yenko68042.jpg

[jfkheat]

Nice find. How many 68 Yenkos were special paint?
James

[Charley Lillard]

. http://www.yenko.net/attachments/203377-tn_yenko68002.jpg

[Charley Lillard]

. http://www.yenko.net/attachments/203378-tn_yenko68013.jpg

[Charley Lillard]

. http://www.yenko.net/attachments/203379-tn_yenko68014.jpg

[427freak]

I would loke to know the answer to the special paint question. Whomever ordered the car must have liked the 67 color. I would love to find out the original purchase story. Maybe someday....Also there was no extra charge for the rat excrement

[427freak]

Thanks CamaroJoe,
I do not have the gascap, but it does have the hole for a SS cap?? If the rear panel was not black what color would the cap be? The seller has been collecting nos parts for years, it all goes with the car. I just have to spend a few trips digging it all out.

[Xplantdad]

Wow...way cool! Congrats on the purchase! Thanks for sharing the pics. Oh, thanks for the awesome story, too!

Please keep us updated on what you find...we live for this stuff! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[Supercar_Kid]

Awesome find! Congrats to you, and best of luck in the future restoration process.

This Camaro is a great example of Yenko's creative work to get rid of the SS IDs on his converted Supercars, and the first 68 I've seen with the fender crests in lieu of the SS emblems. I wonder how they got to the nuts on the back to get the original SS emblems off, it's been suggested they were just whacked with a sharp chisel? Maybe you'll find broken studs with nuts still on them down in the bottom of the fender when you remove it, that would be awesome. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/eek.gif

As for the gas cap...Yenko typically (or at least as evidenced in a few cars in original pics) painted the SS gas cap completely black, right over the white SS and chrome outer edge. I think he did this to "hide" the fact that the cars began as Super Sports and more to emphasize them as unique and totally stand alone sYc cars, not something in addition to a traditional Super Sport, unlike what Motion went after with their one upper SS427 marketing. No telling what gas cap this car had when it left Yenko. No doubt it was delivered with a standard SS cap, but Yenko may have simply sprayed it all black even on the blue rear tail same as he did the ones that came in with blackout...it's anyone's guess at this point.

Again, congratulations on your find. Neat story of being saved off the hook too. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif

[427freak]

Thanks Supercar Kid http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/cool.gif
I appreciate the info. I want to put the car right. I think I like the idea of painting over the SS on the cap. Did you notice the steering wheel? It is original and it has the small SS but no 396 on it. I remember seeing 8008 the giveaway car and I think it had the fender emblems like mine? This was a Jay Kline car also. Maybe someone could post a pic? The back of the front lower valance has a grease mark with SS and 55 on it, also the frame by the steering box has the same white SS mark.

[mssl72]

I think this is the picture you were trying to post.

http://i3.tinypic.com/wtyss4.jpg

[427freak]

Thanks Mark. Here is one of the Navy sticker on the rear of the car. Thanks Charley for showing me how to post the pics. I am dangerous.
http://www.yenko.net/attachments/203490-tn_yenko68045.jpg

[camarojoe]

[ QUOTE ]
The rear panel was never black. It did have a SS gas cap.

[/ QUOTE ]

Just wondering about this statement, as it looks like the rear panel is black in this pic, and the gas cap is missing... I'm no expert on 68's but I know the cars were painted prior to the blackouts, so i think the blue paint under the black would be normal. Is this evidence of blue under the black your reasoning for believing it never had a black tailpanel originally?

http://www.yenko.net/attachments/203373-tn_yenko68041.jpg

Was the black painted on by the previous owner? And what about the SS gas cap? Do you have the original? -Joe

[427freak]

Camaro Joe
The panel is blue and was never black. The Deepwater Blue is very dark. There are a few lighter blue spots where the owner tried to sand the remnants of the emblem outlines off (see 1st post) and I think that is what you are seeing. The 4th hole being open where the gascap goes would be to hold on the SS cap? I do not have the cap. I am open to all help as very little info is known about these cars. I will post pic of Yenko # tag in a min.

[427freak]

Pic of Yenko tag. Bingo! Note steel rivets. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/naughty.gif
http://www.yenko.net/attachments/203508-tn_yenko68047.jpg

[Mr70]

NICE FIND FREAK! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif

[Xplantdad]

Again...way cool!

Hopefully soon it will look like this:

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b156/lotsayenkopics/Private%20Collection/tn_DSCF3308.jpg

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b156/lotsayenkopics/Private%20Collection/tn_DSCF3309.jpg

[SS427]

Congratulations on a great find Dana. I can only imagine many sleepless nights over this one! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif
Rick

[427freak]

Camaro Joe
In reference to your question about the rear panel being blacked out or not, I am re-looking into the issue. After thinking about your question I went back out to the car. The tail is not in the sun and it is hard to tell. When I pulled it out in the desert it sure matched the paint on the car. I rubbed on it and still cannot tell the difference. I think the black would be satin or flat though and it is not. If you look at the pic again you can see what I mean when you try and compare the tail with the lower panel. This color is almost black. I am going to remove a taillight and see what is under there. If it is black I owe you an apology. Did anyone notice ralley sport taillights? Seem born in the car, with wires spliced in rear to make work??

[427freak]

http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/worship.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/dunno.gif My apologies to Camaro Joe. I stand corrected. I washed the back of the car and took my wife out there to look in the sun(she can actually discern colors)and it was black over blue. The black was rubbing off from many washes and the colors are so close I couldn't tell. It makes sense that it is black though. I will shut up now.

[Rick H]

[ QUOTE ]
Did anyone notice ralley sport taillights? Seem born in the car, with wires spliced in rear to make work??

[/ QUOTE ]

Want to post a picture of the taillights?

Also not all of the SS gas caps were painted black on the Yenko's. Have seen pictures of both.


Rick H

[camarojoe]

[ QUOTE ]
http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/worship.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/dunno.gif My apologies to Camaro Joe. I stand corrected. I washed the back of the car and took my wife out there to look in the sun(she can actually discern colors)and it was black over blue. The black was rubbing off from many washes and the colors are so close I couldn't tell. It makes sense that it is black though. I will shut up now.

[/ QUOTE ]

No apologies needed. The black on the tailpanel was originally pretty shiny, so its likely that it would be similar in sheen to the original blue paint. Don't shut up now... go take some more pics! Would love to see more. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif
http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[MosportGreen66]

Wow... that is an amazing find! Congrats! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif
I hope the car is not still outside... http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/haha.gif

[427freak]

75 degrees here and perfect weather, but car is going inside now. Here is taillight. ??? Car has day/night mirror and backup plug on firewall
http://www.yenko.net/attachments/203539-tn_yenko68052.jpg

[427freak]

Steering wheel center, Camaro? Notice 2 holes in gauge cluster upper right, tach was there?
http://www.yenko.net/attachments/203540-tn_yenko68048.jpg

[427freak]

Quick steer power box
http://www.yenko.net/attachments/203541-tn_yenko68050.jpg

[427freak]

SS and # on back of orig. front lower valance.
http://www.yenko.net/attachments/203543-tn_yenko68049.jpg

[427freak]

SS on outer frame by steering box, hard to read in pic. Worn out from posting retiring from pics for the night. http://www.yenko.net/attachments/203544-tn_yenko68051.jpg

[camarojoe]

[ QUOTE ]
Steering wheel center, Camaro? Notice 2 holes in gauge cluster upper right, tach was there?

[/ QUOTE ]

Yep, looks like the holes are spaced perfectly for a Stewart Warner pedestal tach. Check the firewall, I bet you find the 2 holes where the sending unit was screwed on. Cool stuff! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif

[Rick H]

The deluxe steering wheel was found on just about all 1968 Yenkos. Take it off and put it in a safe place.
Tach in upper right corner of dash carrier.
Here is an interior picture of the 68 Yenko we did when I was at Camaro Specialties.

Rick H.

http://www.camaros.com/images/68yenko/yenko04.jpg

[Rick H]

I don't see the lower reverse lights found on all rally sports so someone probably changed out the clear lens for the red lense. Easy to fix.

When these cars were raced a light was required at night in the rear and most racers changed out the clear lens for the red.

Great find.

Rick H.

[427freak]

There is a pic of the firewall where the sending unit was on the 2nd page of post. Thanks Rick H. and Camaro Joe for the info and pics. Restored interior is nice, can't wait for this one to look like that one.

[hvychev]

Absolutely Freakin amazing.....Man they are still out there. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/worship.gif

[JChlupsa]

yes they are Frank now go find that Dragon http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif

Great story and neat find. and to think it was in my back yard years ago http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif

Oh well just means you have to travel the back roads more i guess!!!

[firstgenaddict]

The Deluxe Steering Wheel on the 68 Camaros (at least the May built 68 SS 396 that I had) did not have the 396 along with the SS on the horn button. I believe that was reserved for the Chevelles and big cars.

[Supercar_Kid]

Not all '68 SS396 Chevelles received the SS396 horn emblem either...many came with just the plain SS with no engine ID as seen here.
http://www.yenko.net/attachments/203626-SS.jpg
http://www.yenko.net/attachments/203626-SSCU.jpg

[PeteLeathersac]

Wow....I mean WOW!!! . Congratulations on the auquisition of the year!!! . NIce details and happy for you the tags are all there! . Are you starting resto soon....maybe taking it to SCR as is? .

~ Pete

[enio45]

Fantastic find...congrats on your efforts!!

[JChlupsa]

[ QUOTE ]
maybe taking it to SCR as is? .


[/ QUOTE ]

I think that would be a hit. a as found type thing and then bring it back after its restored

[427freak]

Is anyone going there from the west coast with a trailer? Or even a truck, I have a 25' enclosed. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/dunno.gif

[bkhpah]

We currently have the YS-8002 Proto-type Camaro in for restoration. This car was not a COPO and has a 120 speedo. The door tag is screwed onto the body and did not use a rivit. Cograts on you find http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif..BKH

[YENKO DEUCE REGISTRY]

BKH, is that the car with the experimental f-glass lid?

Dana, I have something somewhere that says your car had an option called 'HUBS'. I'll try to dig it out. I'm assuming it was the Pontiac wheels, inferring that they may have initially been an option vs. standard. Congrats on the find, can't wait to see it at an SCR - regardless of condition http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif

[enio45]

How did you find this car....i read the history - but how did you uncover its availability and location?

[Kim_Howie]

Boy's their out there!! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif Nice find!!! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/flag.gif

[bkhpah]

Yes M, that the car with the glass decklid with the spoiler grafted onto it. Whats cool is Yenko used the original decklid for the mould and you can see masking tape that they put over the access holes in the trunk and even the stamping date that matches the rest of the car...BKH

[427freak]

Thanks for all of the info and congrats so far. I wanted to post this car here just for the kind of interaction that is taking place. I think information shared helps everyone. In response to how I found the car? Years of networking and following up on a rumor, and then a couple more years of trying to get the seller to sell. Other people knew about this car but they all got bored after several months and went away. Be persistant.

[Xplantdad]

Dana, When you said you found it in the desert...was it still in California...or ???

This site and it's "finds" never cease to amaze me! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[427freak]

Calif. high desert. Left at the 2nd cactus and right at the coyote skull behind the big rock...Nice and dry thank God.

[JChlupsa]

[ QUOTE ]
Calif. high desert. Left at the 2nd cactus and right at the coyote skull behind the big rock...Nice and dry thank God.

[/ QUOTE ]


I know that place http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif

[Xplantdad]

[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
Calif. high desert. Left at the 2nd cactus and right at the coyote skull behind the big rock...Nice and dry thank God.

[/ QUOTE ]


I know that place http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif

[/ QUOTE ]

Yeah...it's right down the way from my place http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif

[427freak]

Maybe SS427 or someone else can shed some light on Jay Kline Chevrolet. Is it still there? Any history? Did anyone grab paperwork? Would love to here from anyone who might have a lead on paperwork for this car. Thanks again.

[COPO]

Awesome find. Congrats! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif

[SS427]

[ QUOTE ]
Maybe SS427 or someone else can shed some light on Jay Kline Chevrolet.

[/ QUOTE ]

Thanks Dana,
Jay Line is no longer there and has not been for a number of years from what I recall. However, the family still owns and operates many dealerships under the name Kline Automotive Group and Kline Autoworld. Unfortunately I don't have much information on Jay Kline or it's history. I believe Earl (mnyenko) may have a lot more however and I will ask him to chime in. Seems to me he knew a lot of people from the dealership from the day. However, if there is anything he/I can do to help you track your car's history, we would be more than happy to do so.
Rick

[chads454Ls6]

Steve Kline still operates Kline Mitsubishi,far cry from chevrolet,I have tried to reach him but have not had any luck. Earl (Mnyenko) had given me that info and i was going to see if he had anything from the old days.

[Vettefinderjim]

[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
Calif. high desert. Left at the 2nd cactus and right at the coyote skull behind the big rock...Nice and dry thank God.

[/ QUOTE ]
I KNOW THE PLACE....AND ALL THESE YEARS WHILE I CHASED OTHER CARS THAT WERE COMPLETE, I NEVER KNEW WHAT THIS CAR WAS AND WALKED ON BY. THAT WILL TEACH YOU TO 'LOOK CLOSE' WHEN YOU WALK INTO AN OLD BONE YARD

I know that place http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif

[/ QUOTE ]

Yeah...it's right down the way from my place http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif

[/ QUOTE ]

[427freak]

Jim
If you had stuck your hand in the car my trained rat would have bite you. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif
http://www.yenko.net/attachments/203374-tn_yenko68042.jpg

[Stefano]

That looks like a little appetizer for a native Chicago Rat.

Congrats on the great find/acquisition.

[427freak]

Did we just lose a day of posting or is it just me??

[Xplantdad]

Yea...there seems to be a bunch of stuff missing???!!!???

[Kurt S]

Reposting (got deleted)
[ QUOTE ]
I would loke to know the answer to the special paint question. Whomever ordered the car must have liked the 67 color.

[/ QUOTE ]
It is actually a 68 color, Fathom Blue (a paint chip comparison would confirm that). It was one of the 4 colors deleted on 1/1/68 with 4 new colors replacing them. To get it after that date was a special order. Apparently Yenko liked that color enough to do the special order. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif

[mssl72]

Yes, there's stuff missing. There's been some weird stuff going on with the web lately. I had problems with 2 other automotive sites over the past few days, one of which is still off-line. I dislike glitches. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/no.gif

[firstgenaddict]

At some point last night I reid to get on the site and the homepage came up but when you clicked the discussion forums it went to alot of code.

[Charley Lillard]

Apparently the server crashed...My post saying that Vince Emme was the one that told him the car was deepwater blue. Probably got it from his records.

[ANDY M]

My techie friend said that the Yenko server firewall must have gotten hacked, and overloaded with junkware that flooded in like a levy breaking. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbsdown.gif
I had no adware on my hard drive because I still run 98SE, but I had all kinds of problems getting through the junkware. My wifes laptop, which runs XP, had about 30 adware and spyware programs on it when I ran Spybot. This is stuff that got through my firewall because it came through the Yenko server, so my computer was tricked into thinking it was OK. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbsdown.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/bs.gif
Everybody should run their anti-Spyware or Adware programs just to be on the safe side, especially if you run XP. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/scholar.gif

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a146/ameyers215/Hillbillyimage.jpg

[427freak]

MSSL72 is coming over to the house and we are going to do a chip comparison. I would like to know. What Charley said is true, but I was not shown anything in writing. I am trying to follow up on that info. Also my post was deleted regarding 2 Fathom Blue cars that are later then mine still being around. What do their tags have on them? One is 8022 I believe and is selling at auction end of May at Mecum. Anyone going? Would love pics and info on car.

[427freak]

I have it from a reliable source that there is paperwork that has shown 8011 as being Fathom Blue. I think the previous source was using a pic of the car to come to the conclusion that the car was Deepwater. The colors are very close and impossible to tell by looking at a pic on the computer. No harm no foul. Would love to hear about other Fathom Blue Yenko tags though. The info here has been invaluable and I have already received some paperwork regarding the car. Would love to find any owner info. THANKS ALL http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/worship.gif
Dana

[Mike67SS]

Great find! Its great to see new supercars being found.

[mssl72]

I found my '67 paint chip set, so I'm already. Is there some sort of Yenko chant or prayer I'm supposed to do as I approach the car? What would happen if I looked a Yenko directly in the eyes? I'm a little nervous.

[427freak]

As long as you don't pull up next to it in a ford you should be okay... http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif

[firstgenaddict]

I'm sure that it would be more than comfortable with you arriving in an L72 powered Caprice. Like an older Brother...

[mssl72]

I'm going to actually try to do just that. I haven't had the Caprice out for too long a time. I'm going to go over some things and take it out for a little shake down. I'm just not crazy about driving the freeways out here with 4.10 gears. Does somebody have a Hone-O-Drive I can have?

[427freak]

We like L72's

[budnate]

Dana, set a motor in that critter and bring it to SCR as is and leave some marks in the parking lot... http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/scholar.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[427freak]

Do you think it would be able to light the tires? Just kidding. Believe me I was thinking the same thing the other day. I have just about everything to make it run.

[Charley Lillard]

It would probably gather the most attention....Great way to debut the car.

[427freak]

I just might be crazy enough to do it... http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/naughty.gif

[mrrec]

Great car! Congrats! Is the rat (the one in the trunk) OE or added by Yenko?
Dave

[firstgenaddict]

The rat under the hood was replaced with the one in the trunk! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/haha.gif

[budnate]

[ QUOTE ]
I just might be crazy enough to do it... http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/naughty.gif

[/ QUOTE ]

"GET R DONE!!!!" no paint!! just bolt her together with stuff in the shop and get it out there...cold brews on your arrival on me... http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[mssl72]

Well, I've climbed the mountain and have seen the Yenko! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/worship.gif The Yenko was nice to me. I couldn't look it in the eyes because they were missing! Very cool car! I'd love to run across something like that. I have no doubt that Dana will get it back on it's "feet" and breathing fire again. And it turns out that Dana's a nice family guy! Whoever said that all car guys were greasy and lived in trailers is nuts. When I was leaving I swear I heard the Yenko wimper as I fired up my Caprice. Soon my friend...very soon! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif

[427freak]

Thanks Mark
I have proof that the people on this site are real. They are not just in the computer or on the other end of the phone. It was a pleasure having Mark over to check out the find. My parents always told me to share. It proves my theory that it is the people you meet in this hobby that make it worthwhile and the cars are just the excuse.

[Xplantdad]

[ QUOTE ]
It proves my theory that it is the people you meet in this hobby that make it worthwhile and the cars are just the excuse.

[/ QUOTE ]

Totally correct Dana http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

Couldn't have said it better myself. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/youguysrock.gif

[427freak]

I have an update on the paint issue. My friend called from the Mecum auction in IL. and said the Fathom Blue 68 Yenko at the auction was built in the same month as my car and also has the -- paint code. It is also a 712 std interior. The car was roped and guarded but my friend did get some pictures. When I get them does anyone want to see them posted? http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/dunno.gif

[Charley Lillard]

I also saw 8021 last weekend and it also was Fathom Blue with -- paint code.

[mssl72]

Post 'em when you can Dana!

[Kim_Howie]

That car was sold new down by Ray Morrison. Gary Dyer had that car restored several years ago. Very, Very nice car. Kim

[427freak]

1968 Yenko Camaro at Mecum hammer priced today at $350k, so my source says. Yellow 69 auto aprox. $200k no sale, 69 RG aprox. $300k no sale.

[427freak]

The gift that keeps on giving...
I spent 10 more hours at the sellers property yesterday and turned up some great stuff. Here is actual gauge pack that was in the car when he bought it. Notice wood grain sticker. Outside holes on top were drilled to attach to underdash. Gauges are in good shape. I have more... http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/naughty.gif
http://www.yenko.net/attachments/208881-tn_yenko68055.jpg

[427freak]

Here is tach and sending unit seller gave me. The outline and holes on the firewall match up to box, and the holes in the cluster line up to tach. I am assuming these are correct parts for the car? I saved the best for last...
http://www.yenko.net/attachments/208883-tn_yenko68058.jpg

[427freak]

Icing on the cake. In the 10th hour of searching we found the original Yenko emblems. Note the one with the nuts came from tail panel. The one with the post broken off came from pass. fender. The pass. fender emblem was just pushed into a metal basket used to hold the emblem. The post is still in the fender so I might be able to repair and make work. I need 2 more and some 427 emblems if anyone has any stashed they would go to a good home. I also got 90% of the rest of car including drivetrain and smog all orig. and dated. That was 3rd trip, I am almost too old for this. See ya later...
http://www.yenko.net/attachments/208884-tn_yenko68056.jpg
http://www.yenko.net/attachments/208885-tn_yenko68057.jpg
Dana

[Chevy454]

Let me be the first to say UN-FRIGGIN-BELIEVABLE!!!!

Awesome finds, Dana, simply awesome...stuff like that is pert-near as cool as the car itself! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif

[Mr70]

I'll be the second.. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif

[427freak]

Thanks Rob,
You should see the stuff I have seen at this guys place. Things that I would like to have one of, he has several of each rare part. I want to clarify one thing I said in the previous post so there is no misunderstanding. I said the parts I got were mostly orig and dated. The engine is not the orig engine that came in the car but a dated nice CE 427 4 bolt main that would have been what would have come in the car. Some of the other stuff was with the car and the rest I had my pick from a huge wherehouse of used and NOS stuff. Thanks again...
Dana

[SS427]

This is what this hobby is all about Dana. Great find to say the least! Enjoy it! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif
Rick

[camarojoe]

Cool... I noticed the lower Yenko badge in your pic looks like the background area of the Yenko wording was originally painted blue. Most were silver in this area with the letters themselves being blue, but I've seen variations like this before... same with the woodgrain on the gauge cluster.. that vinyl applique was actually included in the box with the gauge package from S-W, some got it stuck on, many didn't. Its cool to have this kinda stuff documented in its original condition so it can be restored just the way it actually was.

[mssl72]

Nice Dana! It's like Christmas in June! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[budnate]

sweeeet! now get crackin and get it running as is for SCR9!!! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif

[scuncio]

Greenline tach with standard face gauges! Weird! Awesome car, BTW. I heard a rumor about this car when I lived in Los Angeles....

[427freak]

The gauges and emblems were on the car for sure, he is not sure if the tach was or he might have purchased it later. He was acquiring parts for the car as he went for the last 20 years. Would it have had a different tach? I want to run the right stuff. Thanks
Dana

[camarojoe]

Yenko installed several versions of the SW pedestal tachs including the one you got,I would be pretty confident that it is the original, including the 990B sender. Thats a good score in itself, as they don't come cheap. I have some original pics of a 68 Yenko YS# 8373 and it has the same setup in it, greenline tach/standard face SW gauges. Speaking of which, does anyone know if that car still exists?

[427freak]

Thanks Joe!
Anybody have an idea which starter a L78 came with? I took a 418 but someone is telling me it is a 365. A book says 418 or 430.

[427freak]

I was cleaning up the car this weekend getting ready for surgery and ran across this under the front seat buried. It is a warranty paper for a part hopefully for the car. I can read the date of 1981 (prior to my seller) and the city Los Angeles. I ,of course, am having trouble reading the name and address of purchaser. It is right on the edge of being visable. Looks like the shroud of Turin. Last name looks like Washington? Any ideas? I have image in macro if anyone wants a crack at it I can email. Also found a Pontaic Rally II lugnut under there which was kinda cool. That probably came off quick.
http://www.yenko.net/attachments/241964-68yenkoreceipt.jpg

[firstgenaddict]

Well at least now you are pretty darn sure she came with Rally II's .... Or was that a given on 68's?
Could they come with any other wheels? Joe?

[427freak]

I am not the expert on this but, I think there might have been more of a chance of having custom wheels if the car was sold at Yenko. My car was out of Jay Kline so it probably had the Pontiac wheels. JMO. I think Vince E. might know but I can't get info. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/confused.gif

[olredalert]

Hey Dana,,,,Are you going to B/J??? Would like to say HI!!!! if you are........Bill S

[427freak]

Hey Bill
I will be there. I will be the guy WITHOUT a bidders paddle. Let's get together.

[Xplantdad]

I went by Dana's place with my daughter tonight to check out Dana's Yenko....Awesome to say the least! It will be fun to watch this car get restored.

Dana is also a cool guy! Thanks for taking the time to show me around the car.... http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[427freak]

The pleasure was all mine Bruce. I was kinda hoping your daughter would take the dog though... http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif

[427freak]

I am moving forward with my car and was looking for info on the cars history. I have a gap between when it was sold in 1968 and about 1985. The story is that the car came to So Cal very early on in its life possibly by a Navy person in San Diego. If anyone remebers this car or can shed any light I would appreciate it. It was drag raced extensively. Thanks

[mockingbird812]

Wonderful car with a neat history unfolding. This car will be killer when completed. Good luck Dana!! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[SS427]

Almost ready to turn the key save for a few remaining parts that have been located. Still need a 68 Deluxe wheel but 'me lady' is gracious enough to let me borrow hers off the Gibb Nova until one is located. She is sitting about 2" high on all four paws. That is with the original front coils and replacement new rear springs. Hopefully it will settle some but 2" is asking for a lot.

Thanks again to Tom Scholtz who went above and beyond with the bodywork and paint on this car. It is unreal. Huge thanks also to Annie for the hundreds of hours she has put into this car. I could not run this business without her help!

This has definitely been a labor of love. I have not added up the hours yet but this will likely take the record for number of them. We cannot thank Dana enough for allowing us the restoration duties and we hope he is satisfied with the results. There are still some unanswered questions regarding this car (we think it had the rear Yenko made spoiler originally installed) but many have been answered and proved. Having an original paint car to start with certainly helped prove some of the things that were done to this car originally. We are definitely looking forward to debuting it at the MCACN show and seeing everyone again.

[mockingbird812]

Holy Moly Rick &amp; Annie. What a BEAUT! Can't wait to see it in person!! <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/3gears.gif <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/3gears.gif <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/3gears.gif

[Atuckman]

incredible car and workmanship

[GenOne]

Just amazing ...

[njsteve]

Beautiful!

As for the height, my T/A was the same way with its original springs when I reinstalled them. Until you drive it and give the suspension some real world travel up and down, it wont settle down to its correct right height.

[bergy]

That car is breath taking! Can't wait to see it in person.

[m22mike]

WOW...paint is... <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/worship.gif

[enio45]

looking forward to seeing this car close up!!!!!!!!!!!

[Xplantdad]

Wow...what a great job! I saw the car pre-restoration at Dana's house...and hopefully I will be lucky enough to see it post restoration as well!

[elonblock]

Beautiful, just beautiful!!!!!
It's like a piece of art on 4 wheels.

Elon

[firstgenaddict]

Awesome car Dana, it has come along way from the way it was when you scored it!
Great Work Rick &amp; Annie!

PS Rick, Nice job on the kudo's for Annie.
One of my business friends had a sign on the door that said
&quot;Do you want to speak to the man in charge or the Woman who knows what is going on?&quot;

[MosportGreen66]

I cannot wait to see this car, Rick! Congrats to Rick and Dana.

Dan

[427freak]

You guys saw these pics before I did. Freak'n incredible. If this car were alive it would be indebted for life to Rick and Annie for putting it back in it's Glory! I can't even tell you how much they threw themselves into this endeavor. I found the car and scrounged parts and spent late nights on the phone with Rick discussing the weirdest details, but they are the ones that did all the work on this one. We also had help with parts and info from members here like Dave Lindsley, Ed Montini, Brian Henderson, Charley and Marlin just to name a few. Can't wait to get to MCACN and sit in that car. Just got home from the USC/Stanford game and I am spent, that darn Andrew Luck. Good night.

[JoeC]

car looks great , nice job

one very minor thing I notice on the picture of the tail

In one of the original 68 Yenko photos, the SS was blacked out on the gas cap.. Don't know if all the 68s were done that way but Yenko did remove the SS emblems and makes sense that the gas cap would be painted black.

it looks kind of cluttered with the white SS emblem and the 2 Yenko emblems on the tail.

[DarrenX33]

Yowza! That thing is gorgeous.

[Xplantdad]

Dana, I watched the USC Stanford game as well...It was a god game. The officials should let the players play the game though <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/smile.gif

[RPOLS3]

Looks great Rick - can't wait to see at MCACN.

Jake

[Schonyenko2]

Very, very cool. Look forward to seeing it up close.

[Dicky]

DITTO; on all the above. Very Very Nice. <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/biggthumpup.gif <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/biggthumpup.gif <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/biggthumpup.gif <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/biggthumpup.gif

My favorite year of first gen. Camaros.

Look forward to seeing it in person. <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/beers.gif

Dicky <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/flag.gif

[scuncio]

Wow. Great color!

[enio45]

can i sit in it too?

[427freak]

I can be bribed... <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/beers.gif
By the way the gas cap will be blacked out, these were just tease shots. I am sure Rick will be tinkering the night before the show.

[Xplantdad]

It's come a long way, huh Dana? <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/worship.gif

Rick and Annie rock!

[olredalert]

-----Dana,,,Your car is just another reason I cancelled a long planned trip to be at Bobs latest extravaganza. I cant wait to get there and see your ride. Rick, as usual, has done you proud......Bill S

[Charley Lillard]

Can I have it ?

[SS427]

Thank you for the comments everyone and yes the gas cap is getting painted. I just had not done that yet as well as several other details as can be seen in the photos. It has definitely been a labor of love!

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: njsteve</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
Until you drive it and give the suspension some real world travel up and down, it wont settle down to its correct right height. </div></div>

The car recently went on a 1000 mile round trip trailer ride and it changed nothing. Not the same as driving but I would have expected it to settle some even in the trailer.

[njsteve]

That was gonna be my next suggestion. Was it strapped down by the rear axle and front lower A-arms, so the suspension could still move?

[mockingbird812]

Rick/Dana - I will be willing to come to Illinois a week early and drive this Camaro on the street <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/3gears.gif<span style="font-style: italic"><span style="font-weight: bold">relentlessly</span></span> <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/3gears.gif in order to sort out the ride height. No need to thank me <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/no.gif - it is THAT important to me. <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/grin.gif

























<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/whistle.gif

[427freak]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: mockingbird812</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Rick/Dana - I will be willing to come to Illinois a week early and drive this Camaro on the street <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/3gears.gif<span style="font-style: italic"><span style="font-weight: bold">relentlessly</span></span> <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/3gears.gif in order to sort out the ride height. No need to thank me <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/no.gif - it is THAT important to me. <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/grin.gif


You are a giver. Let's drive it back to the west coast after the show. That should settle the springs.

























<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/whistle.gif </div></div>

[olredalert]

-----WOW!!! Sam, you are one dedicated guy. No one else on the board would attempt this. Just a bottomless pit of helpfulness. You are to be applauded, sir......Bill S

[mockingbird812]

Yeah, you'd be surprised Bill. Some have wrongly accused me of being self-serving in these situations. I'm just misunderstood. <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/dunno.gif

[COPO PETE]

<span style="font-weight: bold">SEXY!!!</span>
Great job Rick! Car is horny!
Peter
ps I can help with the springs as well if Sam does not get it sitting correctly!

[ORIGLS6]

Rick,

What %/gloss did you use on the tail panel? Not trying to stir up anything, I just happen to like what I see on this car. I know there's many schools of thought on this matter so PLEASE EVERYONE, let's not make this a soap-box issue. The car looks perfect and I'm just curious.
Thanks!

[mockingbird812]

Now Pete, don't be horning in on my good will project <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/no.gif! I know what I am doing! <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/grin.gif







<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/hmmm.gif

[VintageMusclecar]

Absolutely stunning...but I'd expect nothing less from you Rick. <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/beers.gif

Eric

[SS427]

Almost ready..........yeah right!

Here are the stands I designed and had Kwhizz make for me. After a little detailing on my end I think they look fantastic. Thanks Ken!!!!!

[ORIGLS6]

Yummy! Another quality <span style="font-weight: bold"><span style="font-style: italic">QUALITEK</span></span> product! <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/worship.gif

[Xplantdad]

Those flat out rock!!!

[mockingbird812]

Holy Moly those are OVER THE TOP Rick! Nice job Ken!! What do you think Dana?

[enio45]

Rick, now i know why you said you have a ride height issue - u have to take off the stands BEFORE you mount the wheels!

Those are killer - can i have them :-)

[RPOLS3]

Very cool Rick - can't wait to see in person next weekend.

[427freak]

What can I say Sam, Rick is going all out. Those stands are Killer!

[COPO PETE]

Amazing! The details <span style="font-weight: bold">DO</span> make the difference!
Great job by all!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Peter

[enio45]

Great job Rick and Annie....

[njsteve]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: SS427</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
Here are the stands I designed and had Kwhizz make for me. After a little detailing on my end I think they look fantastic. Thanks Ken!!!!! </div></div>

Isn't that one of them newfangled wheelweel clearance devices? All you do is rev the engine, dump the clutch and the tool does the rest. You too can fit N50x15s on your car. Order now, makes a great holiday gift!

(Awesome car by the way...and the wheel stands, too) <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/beers.gif

[enio45]

Those do a nice job rolling the lips on the quarters!

[427freak]

I was wondering if anybody here took any decent pics of my car at either the last 2 MCACN shows. It is kinda embarrassing but, Rick nor I got a decent pic in that hall. The car is kinda blocked in right now and I was looking for a picture to use. You can email me or pm. Thanks!

[bkhpah]

http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/pics/usergals/2013/08/full-10-6200-dsc_0078.jpg

[RPOLS3]

http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/pics/usergals/2013/08/full-6195-6201-11_19_11_mcacn_079.jpg
http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/pics/usergals/2013/08/full-6195-6202-11_19_11_mcacn_078.jpg
http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/pics/usergals/2013/08/full-6195-6203-11_19_11_mcacn_081.jpg
http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/pics/usergals/2013/08/full-6195-6204-11_19_11_mcacn_082.jpg
http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/pics/usergals/2013/08/full-6195-6205-11_19_11_mcacn_083.jpg

[enio45]

dana, I sent to your email about 8 pics I took

[427freak]

Thank you guys, I appreciate it.

[Jack_Tar]

All I can say is WOW!! That is one awesome looking car. Dana, you have one outstanding example of what an American Super Car really is. Rick and the guys at Musclecar Restoration and Design turn out some of the best looking muscle cars I have seen.

[SS427]

Note to Annie; Send Mike his monthly payroll check. <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/wink.gif Thanks Mike!

&quot;Rick and the guys&quot; It's just the three of us....oh and Hollywood too.

[markus37]

Wonderful car ! This weekend my Canadian Prototype Stinger is invited to a show near Indy &quot; Carmel Artomobilia &quot;. Shelbys are the featured cars, so we will be the fox in the henhouse. I suggested a revving contest, so far no response !

[Xplantdad]

Dana, your car rocks. It's hard to believe the difference of when I first saw it on Christmas eve a few years ago when you so graciously let my daughter and I come over to see it...


Rick and &quot;crew&quot; did a great job on it. Hey Rick, smile! <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/grin.gif

[427freak]

Bruce
It was my pleasure. Yes, she has come along way since then. Rick knocked it out of the park.
<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/beers.gif
Thanks everyone for the compliments, I am just glad it was saved from it's hibernation and gets to be shown.

[Xplantdad]

Look! On the email blast for today <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/smile.gif

[enio45]

Nicccccce

[mockingbird812]

<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/biggthumpup.gif Sharp!!!! Good luck Dana! <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/biggthumpup.gif

[427freak]

Thanks guys for the compliments. I will be there by the car thurs thru sunday, stop by and visit. The car has been at Nickey Chicago for the last couple of months, and I want to say Thank You to Stefano for all of his help. He is great and I owe him. He took some pics while out there and I didn't notice until I was making a photo book for the car that one of his pics was almost exactly like one I had taken the day I picked up the car in 2006. I thought these pics were cool, especially when I flip them back and forth on my computer. I have said it a million times, but you can really see the work Rick Nelson put into this car. Amazing. <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/worship.gif
This thread is about to pass 100,000 hits on the odometer! Wow <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/youguysrock.gif