Mark’s 1966 Chevrolet Impala wagon came into the workshop for drivetrain upgrades, but the work hasn’t stopped under the bonnet. Suspension, brakes, chassis and interior have all received attention, giving this big wagon a substantial refresh.

With the body off the chassis, we were pleased to find the floors in better shape than we often see. Just a few minor rust repairs were needed before we prepped and sprayed the full underbody.

The chassis was blasted and given a fresh powder-coat finish before we fitted all-new QA1 front and rear suspension. Braking comes courtesy of a substantial Wilwood setup, complete with 14-inch rotors and a new electric park brake system. Making room for those front rotors and calipers meant stepping up from 18-inch to 20-inch front wheels.

Under the bonnet, an L77 V8 and six-speed automatic transmission sourced from a VE Commodore bring a modern drivetrain to the classic wagon. A custom-fabricated stainless steel exhaust rounds out the package.

Inside, a Dakota Digital dash, fresh paint and a floor-mounted shifter continue the upgrades, bringing modern functionality into the Impala’s classic cabin.

It’s a serious set of changes for Mark’s ’66, with the focus on what’s underneath as much as what’s on show.

Got a project in mind? Get in touch

 

— Kayton Coughey