1970 RS/SS L34 restoration project

[Steve Kays]

I thought that I’d share a few pictures and information on my 1970, RS/SS L34 project. It was built in June of 1970 at the Van Nuys plant. It is mostly complete, and has it’s original 12 bolt rear end, turbo 400 transmission, and a CE 396 block (December 70 cast date). The NCRS report shows that it was sold new from “Bill Barnett Chevrolet” in Compton, California. It also has a partial build sheet, that was found on top of the gas tank. The build sheet documents codes Z22 (RS), Z27 (SS), and ZL3 (SS 396). The original color is Cortez silver, with black standard interior, and A/C. It had a set of Z/28 wheels when I purchased it, but I was able to find a set of date coded correct 14X7 poverty cap wheels. I’ve had it for a little over a year now. In that time, I’ve started a frame off restoration. It has been painted, and is now a rolling chassis. I really enjoy this site, and all of the information available. Not to mention all of the knowledge and advice from the members. Thanks for looking, I hope to have it on the road by next summer!

 

[tom3]

Now you're ready for the fun part I think. Looking great and a pretty rare car too. Great project!

 

[McCune]

Awesome car! Be careful around those front fenders they leave elbow marks real easy. Keep progress pictures coming.

 

[mrfleet12]

Looks like a great car, love the color combination. What's that sitting next to it?

 

[fltinstructor]

Great looking car!

 

[john Gialanella]

Do you know why the original 402 was replaced with an over-the-counter CE engine. Because if it was the original engine (your CE is December 1970) but the Car was built in June 1970 that would be 6 months which I do not think is possible. It was either bad from the start or the original owner blow the engine. Your Camaro SS396 with Silver exterior color is going to look really nice when finished. Please post pictures on site when you are finished. Good luck. Mine is same 1970 SS 396 L-34 with no AC. And TH400. I was looking for a 4 speed but could not find one back in June 2012 when I bought this one.

 

[Steve Kays]

Now you're ready for the fun part I think. Looking great and a pretty rare car too. Great project!

Thanks Tom!

 

[Steve Kays]

Awesome car! Be careful around those front fenders they leave elbow marks real easy. Keep progress pictures coming.

Thanks! I definitely will.

 

[Steve Kays]

Looks like a great car, love the color combination. What's that sitting next to it?

Thanks! It’s a 1966 Pontiac GTO (resto-mod). I just finished it earlier this year. Gotta stay busy…ha!

 

[Steve Kays]

Great looking car!

Thanks!