Bronze Beauty

Fred Chavez, NM

I've admired '59 Chevys since they were first manufactured and I purchased this '59 in 1998 from my brother Joseph, who purchased the car from the original owner a few years before that time. The car was rust free and in excellent driving condition.

The biggest problem I had with the car was the paint job. It had to be repainted three times to get it right because the color would become transparent after the clear coat was applied.
 
My intentions for this car were to build a Resto Rod, which would be a car I could drive any time I like and have fun with at car shows and rod runs.
 
The first steps I took to building my ‘59 were to install the 350ci engine and 700R4 transmission from a 1992 Buick Roadmaster. After installing the engine, I had to modify the transmission lines, power steering lines and driveshaft. I also installed the fuel tank and gas lines from the Buick. I then started inside the car where I installed a Vintage Air unit and fitted the car with bucket seats from a ‘98 Mazda and console from a Ford Taurus. Once I had completed installing all my desired options, I disassembled the entire car and commenced to straightening, cleaning, painting and reinstalling every piece on the car.
 
With the help of my son Greg, my three brothers Henry, Paul and David and help from Pete at C Pete Paint and Body, it took me three years to complete the car. I had just a couple of problems with my project, which were tuning issues with the computer and a noisy rear end that needed a rebuild.
 
I plan on driving my '59 to every car event possible as well as taking my wife Viola for a drive on nice days and evenings. We enjoy it when people show their positive attitude when they see the car and they always have lots of questions, which I don’t mind answering. That alone makes all the work put into the car worthwhile.
   
OPTIONS:
1992 350ci fuel injected engine with a 700R4 overdrive transmission.
Vintage Air A/C unit
Power steering
Power disc brakes
Power windows
Power antenna with AM/FM stereo with 10-CD disc changer
Tilt Steering
Custom leather upholstery
2003 S-10 Extreme Aluminum wheels