1964 Chevrolet C10 – Patrick P.

When I left for college in the 80’s, I drove a hand me down ’64 Chevy Belaire. It was a tank and took me any and everywhere I needed to go. It had a V8/350, with a power glide transmission. I never shed away from a race and won as many as I lost. After leaving college and joining the military, I gave it to my younger brother and never saw it again but I never forgot about that ’64 Chevy.
Years later and always looking for a new hobby or challenge, I restored a GM sports car and gained an appreciation for the process which brings me to the present project. While strolling through an auto salvage yard in Alabama, I came across this truck, a 1964 Chevy C10 Fleetside, that reminded me of something my dad would appreciate. I asked the yard attendant if it was for sale and if it ran. He replied, “ it runs and everything out here has a price”. I found out how much and went home to check with my banker. After minor debate, we compromised with me being able to make the purchase as long as a vacation of her choosing was in the near future. I drove the truck home that evening and started cleaning and making notes. The truck had original V6/230, but with a 2speed transmission. That was the first to go and replaced with a 350 transmission for the time being. I was able to seal up a few leaks and drive it short distances.
Fast forward years later, I eventually replaced the old engine with a later model GM V8/305 and backed it up a 700r4 transmission with headers and dual exhaust. I decided that I wanted to keep it as old school as possible but I wanted some modern components, hence rewiring the electrical system adding a new sound system, bucket seats, center console and LED lights all around. New updated shock absorbers and radiator and cooling systems along with a cam to give the engine some bark.
Choosing a color proved to be a difficult task. It deserved a color that represented its heritage along with its new beginnings as this project was nearing its completion. My wife and I decided a dignified shade of blue would set it off properly. We decided on Aqua blue with black pigments to set it apart and give it a little personality.