LS6 Chevelle registry (long)

[SS427]

Recently an LS-6 registry was suggested on several of the Chevrolet web sites and I was asked to head it up. I stated that I would give it another try as this is the only muscle car that does not have its own registry and is badly needed but only if the owners would take an interest. If the last few days are any indication which has been overwhelming, then now is the time. As many site members not only own them, dozens have come forward and offered their assistance both physically and financially.

The purpose of the LS-6 Chevelle Registry will be to gather and compile accurate historical information about these rare cars to include the El Camino, coupe and convertible, list many facts and hopefully dispel much of the inaccurate information that is out there. Much help is needed and several members have already offered their assistance both in knowledge, historical information and financial backing. I still need more help in the way of individual car information, photos, documents and historical information to give these cars the attention they deserve.

Once a web site has been developed, (I can use a lot of help there) much of the general information will be available to share. Since I have a full time job, a restoration business, a family and lack much of the web site knowledge needed, that is the one area I can initially use the most help on. The registry will not be intended to be used as a way to increase the value of one’s car or to belittle another. Only to list the facts as best I can. Unlike other registries, the LS-6 has no GM or dealer documented list of VIN numbers to verify a car’s originality. Because these cars are nearly impossible to prove in some cases, I hope to have some type of a rating system where a car with complete owner and documentation being rated one way while only a car having all the right equipment but no proof other than maybe original owners affidavit being rated yet another way.

I am in the very early stages of setting this all up and can use any input both positive and negative. I am new to this and will take anyone’s suggestion providing they are in the best interest of the hobbyist. I have been restoring, documenting and authenticating these cars for several years all the meanwhile compiling information from those cases in the hopes of someday being able to provide a service to owners and hobbyists. One thing I lack is much of the GM documentation which I know several of you have and hopefully will offer to add to the site and be recognized as the donor. I am by no means an expert and will open myself up to anyone who is that can offer their assistance with knowledge, information, photos, documents, etc. I am only the person who was elected and offered to head it up and spend the time to put it all together. At some time in my life, I would like to write a book on these great cars but that may likely be in another lifetime.

At some point in time, I would like to include the L-78 Chevelles and El Caminos as these were in fact the predecessor to the LS-6 and are also rarer. These high performance cars also need to have a registry and I would like to eventually include them. Obviously there are people on these sites that are much better educated on the L-78 and would hope they would like to partake in that end of it.

With all that said and done, anyone willing to share stories, photos, documents, build sheets, POP information, GM documents, original dealer information, VIN numbers, cowl tag information, etc, please send them to;

Rick Nelson
20560 Italy Ave
Lakeville, MN 55044
ls6registry@(removemefirst)hotmail.com

Any information that you supply that you want kept private, please mark as such and that will be honored. Eventually a list of VIN numbers will be listed on the site but with the last three digits shown as “xxx” to protect the privacy of the owner. I have well over 100 LS-6 and L-78 build sheets in my possession currently but would like to add to their information such as cowl tag and owner history if possible. Obviously items such as complete VIN numbers, owner information and some cowl tag information will be kept private. I would prefer to get full size color photocopies of the build sheets as opposed to actual photos.

I hope that I can get everyone’s backing and blessing on this as the hobby desperately needs a registry for these cars and hopefully some day, many of the clones out there can be disproved. In no way will this site condone misuse as a way to help someone clone these cars and some information regarding the LS-6 will be kept private for that very reason. I thank you in advance for any assistance, opinions and/or information that you can provide. Several sites have already offered their home page as a place to list this registry. Please understand this registry will not be affiliated with any one site but rather use all the resources possible to help the registry grow.
Rick Nelson

Rick,

I'm looking forward to helping in anyway I can. Let me know what else you need.

[Chevy454]

This sounds like a natural fit for the Team Chevelle site...you gonna be workin' with Al on any of this?

[SS427]

Rob, yes I am working along with Team Chevelle. Al and I have always worked well together. Hopefully I can get the support of the sYc as well. Many members/owners have already been in touch with me and thanks in advance for their support.

[sYc]

[ QUOTE ]
..... Hopefully I can get the support of the sYc as well. ...

[/ QUOTE ]

Rick, no problem. Glad several members have already stepped up and supplied you with info. Hopefully others will do so in the not so distant future.

Good luck!!!

[Belair62]

Sounds like a worthy project...hopefully you will get off to a good start...

[Vettefinderjim]

Way to go Rick!!

I am very happy to see you come forward and WANT TO SHARE. For years I have said we are all growing older and sure won't be able to share once we are gone.......and why take this fun hobby to the grave.

If we look at the Shelby Registry we can see what can be a very positive thing. Any one that owns a "Real" Shelby WANTS to be included in the Registry...it adds value to the car and creditablity to the car and hobby. I also like the way the Registry tells the story of history of each car. Like how it was born white, then changed to blue....rear fenders flared....then replaced after drag racing and now red and in concour condition.....with its sixth engine !! etc., etc., etc.

It is the history that counts. These are real cars with a story, and let's face it, no one bought a LS-6 to look at and show only.

I wish great success, and if I can help any way please call or write.

I will send you stuff as I get it. I know of a one owner black /black Chevelle that is still owned by the original owner. In time I will be able to share the info.

Regards,
JIM

[SS427]

[ QUOTE ]
I know of a one owner black /black Chevelle that is still owned by the original owner. In time I will be able to share the info.
Regards,
JIM

[/ QUOTE ]

Thanks Jim,
Would this owner be in the San Diego area if I recall? If so, I met him at Chevellabration a couple of years ago. Great guy to talk to and had lots of photos with him.

The one difference between the Shelby and other registries is those people seem to want to share their cars. The LS-6 owners are very reserved and cautious. Many are very quick to call and ask for restoration help right up until you ask for information on their cars for the registry and suddenly they clam up even though I know they have a build sheet car. For the most part, everyone has been a big help so far but there are still many owners (and paper collectors) who have not come forth to submit the information that can help the cause which is not a big issue for me since I benefit in no way from it other than to help the hobby.

The one nice part is I have met some very nice people and come across some REALLY rare cars including L-89's and LS-6 convertibles. I spent the entire day with an L-89 owner who showed me tons of documents and shared many stories. That is what this is all about.
Rick

[copo69]

If the same info that is available for the Shelby's was available for the Chevy cars then I suspect more owners would be willing to divulge info. You also wouldn't have questioning of your car's pedigree and the less than honest people taking advantage of info to the same extent.

I think Rick should be applauded for his efforts in helping LS6 owners. It amazes me some of the email I've received, in regards to people that own LS6's and want further info (especially about early and/or Baltimore cars) and yet are not contributing to the Registry. When asked about it, they say something like "well I'm getting it together or I know my car is real, why should I help?" The way I look at it is talk is cheap...if you want to be included send the guy (Rick Nelson) your paperwork. If you don't have stuff to hide, then man up and join. It can only help with the sharing of info and bring recognition to a particular car. If I seem passionate, it is because this is something I really believe in and only see psoitives for the LS6/Chevelle community.

Respectfully,

GSC