Manny DeCastro, 1965 Monza Coupe - Port Charlotte, Florida
I am a 54 year old hot rod fanatic that until recently lost the will to start another project. There was nothing that Interested me until I stumbled on a you tube series called "Drive". I enjoyed the concept of the shows. The road race mid 60's Mustang and Corvette got me to continue clicking on each car that was reviewed. When I watched the episode on a gold V-8 powered Corvair, my hands started shaking and my knees got weak. I GOT IT - I GET IT! After giving it time to see if it's just a passing fantasy, the want ever increased. Rick Andersen was nice enough to introduce me to the web site. Then today I get an email from Chuck Rust! I'm in! I will represent this club and these great cars in the great state of Florida.
April 2015 Update
I located a '65 Monza pretty much intact but was obviously someone's abandoned project. What seemed to have been a good paint removal is now surface rust brown. Started to remove parts that where carefully stuffed in any available open space. It came with some interesting paper work that in time I'll get with a member to educate me.
June, 2015 Update -
Engine is a 66 283 , 40 over, forged crank, 202 double humped heads with a roller cam to rockers.
A lot has happened with project. A great guy from North Carolina responded to a craigslist ad I put in looking for a Crown conversion. I was suspicious but sent him a deposit. He couldn't have been nicer and even gave me left and right cove stainless. To top off a perfect road trip I called Paul Siano and asked if I could stop at his home and show him my catch. Well guys when he pulled off the cover on the 66, my 20+ hour trip was forgotten. His car is stunning
(the Cobra was awesome also). Well I included some pics of this journey with the future owner of the car, my daughter. She cut the right floor board out after the picture was taken. Girl, let the metal work begin.....
(the Cobra was awesome also). Well I included some pics of this journey with the future owner of the car, my daughter. She cut the right floor board out after the picture was taken. Girl, let the metal work begin.....
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January, 2016 Update
Would of been going much fast if I started with a "good " body. I had to weld in sub frame and install motor to keep things exciting. Much more body hours to go. At least I've saved this car from either crusher or parting out. Still the car I want!
November, 2016 Update
Now it's starting to resemble a Corvate a little. Restored gas tank, all front end joints, disc brakes, rear brakes , u joints, bilstien shocks, installed modified shifter bar, hydro throwout bearing, a Mike Levine trans axle, but still not even close. Humbling experience to say the least, but love it. Life is getting in the way more than I wanted too.
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December, 2017 Update
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January, 2019 Update
Added a “Chuck Rust” style divide behind seat. Earplugs are mandatory! Driving it all over Florida and loving it.
