1969 Chevelle L78 Monaco Orange
 

I have this on another site but thought I would run it here too.

This is a friend's L78 Chevelle that he bought new in 1969. It's the first time the car has seen daylight in 30 years. He had someone tub the car a long time ago and they screwed it up. Basically when the frame was narrowed and they welded it back together, the rear frame rails sat too low. When they bolted the body to the frame, the body buckled on both sides. I need some opinions on how to fix it. It obtains the <span style="text-decoration: underline"><span style="font-weight: bold">original </span></span>Monaco Orange paint on the car. I hate to see it get painted if it's not necessary.

He currently doesn't have the original motor. He let a friend use it years ago and he blew it up. He has spoken to the guy recently and he thinks he might have it tucked away in his garage still.

I know I need to get better pictures and will as soon as I can. He took it out of his garage and put it at another location and I need him to take me there sometime soon.

Thanks, Kurt


http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n.../P10302267.jpg


http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n.../P10302272.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n.../P10302385.jpg

Re: 1969 Chevelle L78 Monaco Orange
 

Thats awesome!!

Re: 1969 Chevelle L78 Monaco Orange
 

Sounds crazy but would bolting the body to an original unmolested frame work? Either bolting it down as is or by adding shims to the outer body mounts to pull the center down and relieve the stress creases?

Re: 1969 Chevelle L78 Monaco Orange
 

Cool car! I thought the white side stripe was the default color for Monaco Orange w/o vinyl top. Am I wrong?

Re: 1969 Chevelle L78 Monaco Orange
 

That car looks awesome. I would a good frame straightening shop could work their magic on this body. Keep us posted on your progress.

Re: 1969 Chevelle L78 Monaco Orange
 

I will give all the ideas to Jerry and see what happens.

As far as the black stripe, all I can tell you is this cars paint/stripes are original to the car. It also came without the back tail panel being painted black.

Re: 1969 Chevelle L78 Monaco Orange
 

Are those the original stripes on the car?? If so, look at the length difference from where the striping ends on both front fenders...

Rich

Re: 1969 Chevelle L78 Monaco Orange
 

Here are some more pictures that was taken the same day. The damage on both quarters can be seen pretty good in a couple of the pictures.

Notice the tail panel is not painted black. He painted a black lace design on it. 20022 original miles!

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n.../P10302432.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n.../P10302332.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n.../P10302252.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n.../P10302243.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n.../P10302233.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n.../P10302442.jpg

Re: 1969 Chevelle L78 Monaco Orange
 

That's really cool! [img]<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/headbang.gif[/img]

Re: 1969 Chevelle L78 Monaco Orange
 

Get a new frame, relieve the stress and find a very skilled PDR guy. Neat find. Everything's fixable.

Re: 1969 Chevelle L78 Monaco Orange
 

Very cool '69! I agree with the above, find a frame for it.

Re: 1969 Chevelle L78 Monaco Orange
 

A factory original frame will take the stress off. It will likley take some shimming to get the bow out of it.

Re: 1969 Chevelle L78 Monaco Orange
 

I personally am dead against painting the car if it's not necessary. The bottom line is, it's Jerry's car and his decision. That's why I put this question on here and another site to get a better idea from people who have possibly dealt with these kinds of things before.

I do want to mention that the car is NOT for sale and that it does obtain it's original paint although I will ask Jerry if the rear quarters have been massaged but I don't believe so.

Thanks again for all the comments, keep them coming, Kurt

Re: 1969 Chevelle L78 Monaco Orange
 

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: 70ChevyGuy</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Get a new frame, relieve the stress and find a very skilled PDR guy. </div></div>

Agreed....IMO, that would be the first course of action to pursue, providing there are no cracks in the paint.

I hope it's just a reflection, but in that shot of the passenger side on the trailer, it almost looks like the rocker and the lower rear section of the door are also buckled [img]<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/shocked.gif[/img]

I'm betting that Jerry wishes he had that whole tubbing thing to do over again [img]<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/rolleyes.gif[/img]

Re: 1969 Chevelle L78 Monaco Orange
 

Bill, there's no cracks in the paint and you are seeing a reflection on the passenger side rocker. There are the two kinks, one on each quarter. [img]<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/biggthumpup.gif[/img]

Re: 1969 Chevelle L78 Monaco Orange
 

here's a frame for it, not mine:

http://phoenix.craigslist.org/nph/pts/2014459949.html

Re: 1969 Chevelle L78 Monaco Orange
 

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Ngtflyr</div><div class="ubbcode-body">here's a frame for it, not mine:

http://phoenix.craigslist.org/nph/pts/2014459949.html </div></div>

Thanks....I made a copy of it and will give it to him today! [img]<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/biggthumpup.gif[/img]

Re: 1969 Chevelle L78 Monaco Orange
 

Let's not forget that in addition to needing a frame, there has probably been some sheetmetal surgery to the inner rear wheel tubs for those larger rear slicks. Many times when this is done, a body mount on each side is removed and the un-supported body can buckle in the quarter panels.

Re: 1969 Chevelle L78 Monaco Orange
 

Mark, you are correct. The original wheel wells have been removed and the tubs have been installed. They have to come out and new w/w's need to be installed.

Kurt

Re: 1969 Chevelle L78 Monaco Orange
 

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: 69 Post Sedan</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Bill, there's no cracks in the paint and you are seeing a reflection on the passenger side rocker. </div></div>

That's good to hear! Sure hope it can be saved without repainting [img]<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/smile.gif[/img]

And since no one else has asked.... [img]<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/Can-I-Have-It.gif[/img]

Re: 1969 Chevelle L78 Monaco Orange
 

I mentioned this car, and it's problem, to the guys over at Nostalgic Autobody. They think the car should be able to be repaired with minimal paint work, but obviously would need to see it firsthand.

Re: 1969 Chevelle L78 Monaco Orange
 

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Rixls6</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I mentioned this car, and it's problem, to the guys over at Nostalgic Autobody. They think the car should be able to be repaired with minimal paint work, but obviously would need to see it firsthand. </div></div>

I also see no reason a skilled person with an eye towards preservation couldn't save the paint given what has been discussed.

Re: 1969 Chevelle L78 Monaco Orange
 

Just bringing this one back to the top. Are there any updates for this car?

Re: 1969 Chevelle L78 Monaco Orange
 

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: YenkoChevelle69</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Just bringing this one back to the top. Are there any updates for this car? </div></div>

I did hear that they went to Arizona and picked up a 1969 shell with a good frame. I might see these guys this Wednesday. If I do I will report back.

Kurt [img]<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/biggthumpup.gif[/img]

Re: 1969 Chevelle L78 Monaco Orange
 

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: 69 Post Sedan</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: YenkoChevelle69</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Just bringing this one back to the top. Are there any updates for this car? </div></div>

I did hear that they went to Arizona and picked up a 1969 shell with a good frame. I might see these guys this Wednesday. If I do I will report back.

Kurt [img]<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/biggthumpup.gif[/img] </div></div>

You will not being seeing anyone from WI. Because after tonight`s loss to the Steelers a deep depression will set upon all &quot;Cheese Heads&quot;

Dan

Re: 1969 Chevelle L78 Monaco Orange
 

LOL I'm curious how this will go now. [img]<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/haha.gif[/img]

Re: 1969 Chevelle L78 Monaco Orange
 

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: scuncio</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Cool car! I thought the white side stripe was the default color for Monaco Orange w/o vinyl top. Am I wrong? </div></div>

I posted some junkyard pics in the rotting musclecars thread awhile back. The yard owner has a 69 SS, 72 72 with black stripes.

Re: 1969 Chevelle L78 Monaco Orange
 

Any updates!? [img]<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/beers.gif[/img]

Re: 1969 Chevelle L78 Monaco Orange
 

Nothing so far. When the weather gets a little better I'm hoping to take a couple of guys from this site to see Jerry's Chevelle. Then we can get some detailed pictures and updates.

Kurt

Re: 1969 Chevelle L78 Monaco Orange
 

Love the car! Hell no should it be repainted! Mount it on a new frame, go with a day two look for the wheels and tires... add some traction bars and certainly ... keep the graphics!!!

There are a lot of L78 Chevelles out there but how many with that look and some cool history!

Looking forward to seeing the progress on this car!!!

Re: 1969 Chevelle L78 Monaco Orange
 

Very cool Chevelle.Maybe loosen off the frame bolts and leave it on the front lawn for the sun to heat things up.;)

Re: 1969 Chevelle L78 Monaco Orange
 

Here is an update pictures of Jerry's Chevelle. They went to Arizona and picked up a 1969 frame, took the body off the old frame and welded it to a jig and started to install the new trunk. While cutting out the old tubs, the body would make noises as if it were relieving pressure.

They had a former employee from the GM Janesville plant start working on the wrinkles. I think the pictures will speak for themselves.

There are over 40 pictures....so enjoy....I know I did.

BTW....Boomer took the pictures! [img]<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/headbang.gif[/img]

Kurt

Jerry is in the red shirt with green hat below.

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...velle/69-1.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...velle/69-2.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...velle/69-3.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...velle/69-4.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...velle/69-5.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...velle/69-6.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...velle/69-7.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...velle/69-8.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...velle/69-9.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...elle/69-10.jpg

Re: 1969 Chevelle L78 Monaco Orange
 

More.....

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...elle/69-11.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...elle/69-12.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...elle/69-13.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...elle/69-14.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...elle/69-15.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...elle/69-16.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...elle/69-17.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...elle/69-18.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...elle/69-19.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...elle/69-20.jpg

Re: 1969 Chevelle L78 Monaco Orange
 

More....

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...elle/69-21.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...elle/69-22.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...elle/69-23.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...elle/69-24.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...elle/69-25.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...elle/69-26.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...elle/69-27.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...elle/69-28.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...elle/69-29.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...elle/69-30.jpg

Re: 1969 Chevelle L78 Monaco Orange
 

More...

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...elle/69-31.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...elle/69-32.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...elle/69-33.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...elle/69-34.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...elle/69-35.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...elle/69-36.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...elle/69-37.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...elle/69-38.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...elle/69-39.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...elle/69-40.jpg

Re: 1969 Chevelle L78 Monaco Orange
 

Last ones for now.

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...elle/69-41.jpg

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/n...elle/69-42.jpg

Re: 1969 Chevelle L78 Monaco Orange
 

The guy only worked on the car for about an hour and a half and said he was too sore to continue so he had to stop. He wants the car back to detail it a little more.

This is being done at TLC Restorations and is owned by Bob &quot;Ripp&quot; Rippberger. Ripp said the jig was rocking all around as it was being worked on.

As of right now....the plan is to letter the passenger side just like the drivers side is, install a &quot;CE&quot; 4 bolt main block that Jerry has with all the original heads, intake, carb, dist., trans. Install a different rear end for now, interior and get it running for next year.

Kurt

Re: 1969 Chevelle L78 Monaco Orange
 

Wow - what a difference!

Re: 1969 Chevelle L78 Monaco Orange
 

Great job so far!

Re: 1969 Chevelle L78 Monaco Orange
 

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Ngtflyr</div><div class="ubbcode-body">here's a frame for it, not mine:

http://phoenix.craigslist.org/nph/pts/2014459949.html </div></div>

BTW...I need to thank Dave (sorry for waiting this long) for the heads up on this link [img]<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/beers.gif[/img] as the new frame that's in the pictures is the one from that ad. They actually drove out to Arizona from WI a few weeks after I showed it to them.

Kurt