Restoration | The Car Nut Chronicles https://carnutchronicles.com Home To Dedicated Auto Enthusiasts of All Shapes and Sizes Fri, 01 Mar 2024 04:48:34 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://i0.wp.com/carnutchronicles.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/cropped-shift-868980_1920.jpg?fit=32%2C32&ssl=1 Restoration | The Car Nut Chronicles https://carnutchronicles.com 32 32 215941338 Check out this Fully Custom 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300GD Wolf https://carnutchronicles.com/restoration/custom-1985-mercedes-benz-300gd-wolf/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=custom-1985-mercedes-benz-300gd-wolf Thu, 15 Feb 2024 09:04:00 +0000 https://carnutchronicles.com/?p=1616 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300GD Wolf Is A Masterpiece of Custom Restoration In the heart of Denver, Colorado, a remarkable automotive gem changed hands recently: a 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300GD Wolf. This vehicle, born from the esteemed lineage of Mercedes-Benz, underwent a meticulous 2-year, body-off restoration by the renowned G-Wagen specialist, Offroad World, in Germany. The attention to detail and level of craftsmanship exhibited in this restoration set a new standard, capturing the essence of luxury and performance synonymous with the Mercedes-Benz brand. Make: Mercedes-BenzModel: Mercedes-Benz W460 GeländewagenEra: 1980sLocation: Denver, ColoradoRestoration Details: Originally a German military Gelandewagen, this 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300GD Wolf received

The post Check out this Fully Custom 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300GD Wolf first appeared on The Car Nut Chronicles.

]]> 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300GD Wolf Is A Masterpiece of Custom Restoration

In the heart of Denver, Colorado, a remarkable automotive gem changed hands recently: a 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300GD Wolf. This vehicle, born from the esteemed lineage of Mercedes-Benz, underwent a meticulous 2-year, body-off restoration by the renowned G-Wagen specialist, Offroad World, in Germany. The attention to detail and level of craftsmanship exhibited in this restoration set a new standard, capturing the essence of luxury and performance synonymous with the Mercedes-Benz brand.

Make: Mercedes-Benz
Model: Mercedes-Benz W460 Geländewagen
Era: 1980s
Location: Denver, Colorado
Restoration Details:

  • VIN: WDB46033217039941
  • Chassis miles: 48,736KM (30,283 miles)
  • 3 owners from new
  • Full frame-off restoration
  • 2.5L 5-cylinder Turbo-diesel
  • Fully restored in Germany by Offroad World
  • 5-speed manual

Sponsored

Get NOCOBOOST Today >>>

Originally a German military Gelandewagen, this 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300GD Wolf received a comprehensive makeover, elevating it to a level of opulence and performance rarely seen in its class. The iconic exterior, now adorned in a custom Jagermeister Orange paint with black trim and soft top, exudes a sense of sophistication and individuality that distinguishes it from its counterparts.

The restoration process spared no expense, with extensive bodywork and custom fabrication ensuring every detail met the highest standards of excellence. From repairing rust to enhancing structural integrity, the body of this 300GD Wolf was meticulously restored to surpass its original condition. Wheel arch flares, powder-coated underbody, and meticulously refurbished suspension components underscore the meticulous attention to detail lavished upon this masterpiece.

Beneath the pristine exterior lies a formidable powerhouse: a 2.5L turbo-diesel engine, meticulously sourced from a same-year E-class sedan, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. This powertrain upgrade not only enhances performance but also ensures freeway-speed capability, a testament to the seller’s commitment to delivering a driving experience that exceeds expectations.

Step inside, and you’re greeted by an interior that rivals the finest luxury vehicles of its time. The dash, controls, and gauges exude an aura of sophistication, while retrofitted custom factory W463 leather seats elevate comfort and style to new heights. With added features such as a tachometer and central locking, this 300GD Wolf offers a blend of classic charm and modern convenience.

RELATED:

Beyond its aesthetic appeal and performance prowess, this 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300GD Wolf embodies a legacy of innovation and durability that defines the G-Wagen lineage. With a production history dating back to 1979 and a reputation for off-road prowess, the G-Wagen continues to captivate enthusiasts and adventurers alike.

This fully custom 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300GD Wolf represents more than just a transaction; it symbolizes the culmination of passion, craftsmanship, and dedication. With an exhaustive 50+ page build thread and a full Flickr gallery showcasing the journey of restoration, this vehicle invites admirers to appreciate not just its beauty, but the labor of love that brought it to life.

For a more comprehensive look at the restoration process, please visit the build link and the full Flickr gallery.

Photos: BaT

Note To Reader: Car Nut Chronicles is reader supported. We may post content which contains links to affiliate sites such as Amazon where we may earn a small commission. This helps us keep the lights on and the articles you enjoy being produced. Thank you for your readership, we appreciate you!




Restoration

Ford Model A Snowmobile That Makes Gearheads Excited

January 13, 2024

Add Some Skis, A Pinch of Homemade Tracks, And Top it Off With The Modified front-end To Make This Awesome Ford Model A Snowmobile In this awesome YouTube video uploaded by Tebo Barn, we check out a cool creation – a 1930 Ford Model A Snowmobile transformed into a unique winter…

Read More
Restoration

Restored Toyota Chinook Auctioned for over $50,000!

December 29, 2023

This Fully Restored 1978 Toyota Chinook is The Perfect Blend of Nostalgia and Off-Road Capability In today’s burgeoning camper market, the allure of outdoor adventures has never been stronger. Amid the surge in popularity of camper vans, this restored Toyota Chinook stands out as a unique blend of retro charm…

Read More
Restoration

Corvette Barn Find: After 30 Years Of Neglect Now Saved

January 13, 2024

Join Mid-Year Mitch as He Unveils the Hidden Stories and Challenges of Resurrecting a Vintage 427/435 Tri-Carb Engine Convertible After 30 Years in a Barn. After spending 30 years tucked away in a dust blanket, this 1968 Corvette barn find convertible underwent a transformative first wash by YouTuber Mid-Year Mitch….

Read More
Restoration

Mercury Cougar GT-E: See The 700-hp Surprise Under Hood!

December 30, 2023

Check out the 772-Horsepower 427 ci Beneath the Hood of the 1968 Mercury Cougar GT-E Sleeper The 1968 Mercury Cougar GT-E stands as a captivating chapter in automotive history, born in the wake of the Mustang’s triumph. Distinguished by its refined design, unique badging, and quad exhaust layout, the GT-E…

Read More
Restoration

Check out this Fully Custom 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300GD Wolf

February 15, 2024

1985 Mercedes-Benz 300GD Wolf Is A Masterpiece of Custom Restoration In the heart of Denver, Colorado, a remarkable automotive gem changed hands recently: a 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300GD Wolf. This vehicle, born from the esteemed lineage of Mercedes-Benz, underwent a meticulous 2-year, body-off restoration by the renowned G-Wagen specialist, Offroad World,…

Read More

The post Check out this Fully Custom 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300GD Wolf first appeared on The Car Nut Chronicles.

]]> 1616 Ford Model A Snowmobile That Makes Gearheads Excited https://carnutchronicles.com/restoration/ford-model-a-snowmobile/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=ford-model-a-snowmobile Sat, 13 Jan 2024 21:47:07 +0000 https://carnutchronicles.com/?p=1094 Add Some Skis, A Pinch of Homemade Tracks, And Top it Off With The Modified front-end To Make This Awesome Ford Model A Snowmobile In this awesome YouTube video uploaded by Tebo Barn, we check out a cool creation – a 1930 Ford Model A Snowmobile transformed into a unique winter ride using spare parts. Put together around 2010, this project showcases some serious ingenuity. Obviously This old-A is not lightning fast like a Mustang or the Ford GT, but it cuts through the snow like an old friend. The main highlight is swapping out the front tires for skis, a

The post Ford Model A Snowmobile That Makes Gearheads Excited first appeared on The Car Nut Chronicles.

]]> Add Some Skis, A Pinch of Homemade Tracks, And Top it Off With The Modified front-end To Make This Awesome Ford Model A Snowmobile

In this awesome YouTube video uploaded by Tebo Barn, we check out a cool creation – a 1930 Ford Model A Snowmobile transformed into a unique winter ride using spare parts. Put together around 2010, this project showcases some serious ingenuity. Obviously This old-A is not lightning fast like a Mustang or the Ford GT, but it cuts through the snow like an old friend.

Homemade Tracks Propel This Cool Winter Romper

The main highlight is swapping out the front tires for skis, a tweak that’s been holding up for more than a decade. The back end features homemade tracks, driven by the stock Model A rear wheel and an extra idler wheel assembly.

The skis, originally designed for a Ford Model T conversion kit by a snowmobile company in West Ossipee, New Hampshire, got a makeover to fit the Model A. A 19-inch rim and a custom bracket ensured a snug fit.

RELATED: Check Out This Awesome Restoration of a Toyota Chinook Camper!

Getting into the nitty-gritty of the snowmobile’s construction, the video explains the modified front end. The wishbone is out, and the kingpins are welded solid to keep them from turning. A Model A front leaf spring, missing a few leaves, is paired with a custom bracket to connect to the torque tube. It’s a setup that lets you adjust track tension on the fly.

A crucial part is the mounting bracket, strategically placed where the original shock would be on a stock Ford Model A. This bracket plays a key role in keeping tension on the tracks, ensuring stability during the ride.

Ford Model A Snowmobile Tracks
Ford Model A Snowmobile In Garage

The homemade tracks steal the show, made up of segments linked by three chain links. Each segment consists of angle iron, flat stock, and a piece that circles the tire. The flexibility at the chain links allows the tracks to maneuver around the tires with ease.

Track Options

The video showcases three different track styles – the Ossipee track for Model T, a Snowbird track for Model A, and a completely homemade design. The last one, a cost-effective and simplified approach, went through some tweaks for added strength and performance.

However, the narrator points out a potential improvement – nixing the space in a specific area to prevent snow buildup, a common hiccup during operation.

This 1930 Ford Model A snowmobile project stands as a testament to creativity and practicality. The detailed craftsmanship, coupled with thoughtful adaptations, has resulted in a one-of-a-kind winter vehicle. Whether it’s the skis, the idler wheel assembly, or the homemade tracks, every detail tells a story of innovation on snow-covered terrain.

Photos: Tebow Barn

Note To Reader: Car Nut Chronicles is reader supported. We may post content which contains links to affiliate sites such as Amazon where we may earn a small commission. This helps us keep the lights on and the articles you enjoy being produced. Thank you for your readership, we appreciate you!




Restoration

Restored Toyota Chinook Auctioned for over $50,000!

December 29, 2023

This Fully Restored 1978 Toyota Chinook is The Perfect Blend of Nostalgia and Off-Road Capability In today’s burgeoning camper market, the allure of outdoor adventures has never been stronger. Amid the surge in popularity of camper vans, this restored Toyota Chinook stands out as a unique blend of retro charm…

Read More
Restoration

Mercury Cougar GT-E: See The 700-hp Surprise Under Hood!

December 30, 2023

Check out the 772-Horsepower 427 ci Beneath the Hood of the 1968 Mercury Cougar GT-E Sleeper The 1968 Mercury Cougar GT-E stands as a captivating chapter in automotive history, born in the wake of the Mustang’s triumph. Distinguished by its refined design, unique badging, and quad exhaust layout, the GT-E…

Read More
Restoration

Corvette Barn Find: After 30 Years Of Neglect Now Saved

January 13, 2024

Join Mid-Year Mitch as He Unveils the Hidden Stories and Challenges of Resurrecting a Vintage 427/435 Tri-Carb Engine Convertible After 30 Years in a Barn. After spending 30 years tucked away in a dust blanket, this 1968 Corvette barn find convertible underwent a transformative first wash by YouTuber Mid-Year Mitch….

Read More
Restoration

Check out this Fully Custom 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300GD Wolf

February 15, 2024

1985 Mercedes-Benz 300GD Wolf Is A Masterpiece of Custom Restoration In the heart of Denver, Colorado, a remarkable automotive gem changed hands recently: a 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300GD Wolf. This vehicle, born from the esteemed lineage of Mercedes-Benz, underwent a meticulous 2-year, body-off restoration by the renowned G-Wagen specialist, Offroad World,…

Read More
Restoration

Ford Model A Snowmobile That Makes Gearheads Excited

January 13, 2024

Add Some Skis, A Pinch of Homemade Tracks, And Top it Off With The Modified front-end To Make This Awesome Ford Model A Snowmobile In this awesome YouTube video uploaded by Tebo Barn, we check out a cool creation – a 1930 Ford Model A Snowmobile transformed into a unique winter…

Read More

The post Ford Model A Snowmobile That Makes Gearheads Excited first appeared on The Car Nut Chronicles.

]]> 1094 Corvette Barn Find: After 30 Years Of Neglect Now Saved https://carnutchronicles.com/restoration/corvette-barn-find-1968/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=corvette-barn-find-1968 Sat, 13 Jan 2024 06:02:03 +0000 https://carnutchronicles.com/?p=1071 Join Mid-Year Mitch as He Unveils the Hidden Stories and Challenges of Resurrecting a Vintage 427/435 Tri-Carb Engine Convertible After 30 Years in a Barn. After spending 30 years tucked away in a dust blanket, this 1968 Corvette barn find convertible underwent a transformative first wash by YouTuber Mid-Year Mitch. Despite the initial allure of a clean exterior, Mitch uncovers hidden issues during the process. The Back Story A year ago, Mitch acquired this silver hardtop convertible from its barn sanctuary. The vehicle, untouched by water for three decades, became the focus of Mitch’s restoration project. His excitement was palpable,

The post Corvette Barn Find: After 30 Years Of Neglect Now Saved first appeared on The Car Nut Chronicles.

]]> Join Mid-Year Mitch as He Unveils the Hidden Stories and Challenges of Resurrecting a Vintage 427/435 Tri-Carb Engine Convertible After 30 Years in a Barn.

After spending 30 years tucked away in a dust blanket, this 1968 Corvette barn find convertible underwent a transformative first wash by YouTuber Mid-Year Mitch. Despite the initial allure of a clean exterior, Mitch uncovers hidden issues during the process.

The Back Story

A year ago, Mitch acquired this silver hardtop convertible from its barn sanctuary. The vehicle, untouched by water for three decades, became the focus of Mitch’s restoration project. His excitement was palpable, and he meticulously documented the cleaning process on his channel. Despite the paint appearing surprisingly nice after a pressure wash, a closer inspection uncovered blisters on the passenger door and scattered blemishes.

Before the spray-down the 30 years of dust was pretty thick, but the body was straight, with no major issues.
1968 Corvette Barn Find
The exterior cleaned up nice with a pressure wash, but the interior and components such as the wiring are another story.

Rescued from its barn slumber, the first-year C3 boasted a factory-fitted 427/435 tri-carb engine. However after closer inspection, this turned out to be a replacement engine, a late ’69 427/435 Chevy crate engine block. That Interesting detail just adds juice on to the story. The exterior may appear respectable from a distance, but a detailed look at the mechanical components reveals a less promising reality.

Despite a thorough engine bay cleaning, nests created by critters over the years hint at the challenges ahead. Mitch acknowledges the need for substantial effort, time, and funds for a proper restoration. While the engine’s external condition raises concerns, Mitch remains optimistic about its internal state and the three carburetors.

Corvette Barn Find Gas Tank
A full replacement of the gas tank was needed due to rust.

Delving deeper, Mitch uncovers many issues. Among them, a rusty gas tank, rotted exhaust system, brittle vacuum lines, worn-out bushings, and compromised wiring. Acknowledging that driving it as-is would mean chasing numerous issues, Mitch proposes a body-off restoration to address the multitude of challenges.

RELATED: Top 10 Fastest Pontiacs Of All Time

No Content

Final Thoughts On This Awesome Corvette Barn Find

Listing a range of necessary tasks, including servicing the rear end, replacing U-joints and half-shafts, refreshing brakes, and overhauling the transmission and engine, Mitch outlines a comprehensive restoration plan. Despite the temptation to hear the car roar immediately, Mitch prioritizes caution, wary of potential fire hazards due to faulty wiring.

1968 Corvette Barn Find Clean

Choosing a less common path, Mid-Year Mitch stresses the importance of carefully restoring every nut and bolt in the chassis of the Corvette Barn Find from 1968. With a strong commitment to looking after the vintage car entrusted to him, Mitch is determined to make well-informed decisions for giving the 1968 Corvette the attention it needs. This restoration isn’t just about fixing what’s visible; it’s about addressing the hidden complexities that may have built up during the car’s 30 years in the barn. By taking a thoughtful and informed approach, Mitch aims to ensure that every step in the Corvette’s revival matches the level of care and dedication it truly deserves.

Note To Reader: Car Nut Chronicles is reader supported. We may post content which contains links to affiliate sites such as Amazon where we may earn a small commission. This helps us keep the lights on and the articles you enjoy being produced. Thank you for your readership, we appreciate you!




Restoration

Check out this Fully Custom 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300GD Wolf

February 15, 2024

1985 Mercedes-Benz 300GD Wolf Is A Masterpiece of Custom Restoration In the heart of Denver, Colorado, a remarkable automotive gem changed hands recently: a 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300GD Wolf. This vehicle, born from the esteemed lineage of Mercedes-Benz, underwent a meticulous 2-year, body-off restoration by the renowned G-Wagen specialist, Offroad World,…

Read More
Restoration

Ford Model A Snowmobile That Makes Gearheads Excited

January 13, 2024

Add Some Skis, A Pinch of Homemade Tracks, And Top it Off With The Modified front-end To Make This Awesome Ford Model A Snowmobile In this awesome YouTube video uploaded by Tebo Barn, we check out a cool creation – a 1930 Ford Model A Snowmobile transformed into a unique winter…

Read More
Restoration

Mercury Cougar GT-E: See The 700-hp Surprise Under Hood!

December 30, 2023

Check out the 772-Horsepower 427 ci Beneath the Hood of the 1968 Mercury Cougar GT-E Sleeper The 1968 Mercury Cougar GT-E stands as a captivating chapter in automotive history, born in the wake of the Mustang’s triumph. Distinguished by its refined design, unique badging, and quad exhaust layout, the GT-E…

Read More
Restoration

Corvette Barn Find: After 30 Years Of Neglect Now Saved

January 13, 2024

Join Mid-Year Mitch as He Unveils the Hidden Stories and Challenges of Resurrecting a Vintage 427/435 Tri-Carb Engine Convertible After 30 Years in a Barn. After spending 30 years tucked away in a dust blanket, this 1968 Corvette barn find convertible underwent a transformative first wash by YouTuber Mid-Year Mitch….

Read More
Restoration

Restored Toyota Chinook Auctioned for over $50,000!

December 29, 2023

This Fully Restored 1978 Toyota Chinook is The Perfect Blend of Nostalgia and Off-Road Capability In today’s burgeoning camper market, the allure of outdoor adventures has never been stronger. Amid the surge in popularity of camper vans, this restored Toyota Chinook stands out as a unique blend of retro charm…

Read More

The post Corvette Barn Find: After 30 Years Of Neglect Now Saved first appeared on The Car Nut Chronicles.

]]> 1071 Mercury Cougar GT-E: See The 700-hp Surprise Under Hood! https://carnutchronicles.com/restoration/mercury-cougar-gt-e-restoration/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=mercury-cougar-gt-e-restoration Sat, 30 Dec 2023 00:59:53 +0000 https://carnutchronicles.com/?p=807 Check out the 772-Horsepower 427 ci Beneath the Hood of the 1968 Mercury Cougar GT-E Sleeper The 1968 Mercury Cougar GT-E stands as a captivating chapter in automotive history, born in the wake of the Mustang’s triumph. Distinguished by its refined design, unique badging, and quad exhaust layout, the GT-E earned its place among classic car enthusiasts. What truly sets it apart is the powerhouse beneath its hood—the legendary 427-cubic-inch side-oiler engine, a nod to racing prowess. With only 394 units crafted in 1968, this Cougar is a rare gem, surpassing its more famous 1969 successor in scarcity. Today, as

The post Mercury Cougar GT-E: See The 700-hp Surprise Under Hood! first appeared on The Car Nut Chronicles.

]]> Check out the 772-Horsepower 427 ci Beneath the Hood of the 1968 Mercury Cougar GT-E Sleeper

The 1968 Mercury Cougar GT-E stands as a captivating chapter in automotive history, born in the wake of the Mustang’s triumph. Distinguished by its refined design, unique badging, and quad exhaust layout, the GT-E earned its place among classic car enthusiasts. What truly sets it apart is the powerhouse beneath its hood—the legendary 427-cubic-inch side-oiler engine, a nod to racing prowess. With only 394 units crafted in 1968, this Cougar is a rare gem, surpassing its more famous 1969 successor in scarcity. Today, as a testament to its enduring allure, the 427-powered GT-E commands a substantial value, beckoning restoration enthusiasts to breathe new life into this iconic piece of automotive heritage.

Mercury Cougar GT interior
Mercury Cougar GT E Side

There is lots of work ahead for this restoration, but it will pay off in the end. (Photos: American Mustangs)

In the wake of the Ford Mustang’s success in 1964, Mercury seized the opportunity to craft its own interpretation of the pony car, resulting in the introduction of the Cougar in September 1966. Positioned as a V8-exclusive, more refined offering between the Mustang and the Thunderbird, the 1967 Cougar surpassed sales expectations, with nearly 151,000 units sold, prompting Mercury to expand the lineup with new equipment and powerplants.

American Mustangs 1968 Mercury Cougar GT-E

Before the renowned Eliminator made its debut in 1969, 1968 saw the emergence of the GT-E. Distinguished by a redesigned grille, unique badging, and a quad exhaust layout, the GT-E boasted a distinctive feature — the 427-cubic-inch (7.0-liter) side-oiler engine. Originating in the early 1960s, this powerhouse had previously propelled vehicles like the 427 Cobra, Thunderbolt, and the race-spec GT40.

In 1968, the 427 FE engine delivered an impressive 390 horsepower to the Cougar, outperforming its successor, the 428-cubic-inch Cobra Jet (335 horsepower). A rarity among classics, only 394 1968 GT-Es were produced, a smaller number compared to the 1969 Eliminator (2,250 units). Of these, 357 were equipped with the 427 engine before the introduction of the Cobra Jet, and just 37 GT-Es featured the latter.

Mercury Cougar GT E 427 Front Engine
Mercury Cougar GT E 427 side view Engine
Mercury Cougar GT E 427 Engine

The 427ci side-oiler was dyno’d at 772 horsepower. (Photos: American Mustangs)

Today, the 427-powered GT-Es hold substantial value, often exceeding $100,000 in restored, original condition. However, not all have weathered the years unaltered, as exemplified by this particular GT-E in need of extensive restoration. While presenting signs of a rough history, with missing components and original Grecian Gold paint only on the front clip, the car stands as a testament to potential restoration projects.

Mercury Cougar GT Side View
This Mercury Cougar GT was originally painted Grecian Gold (Photo: American Mustangs)

Despite the challenges, the GT-E showcased here retains its rare 427 side-oiler engine, housed in the original block. Although the engine has undergone a modern rebuild and boasts an impressive 772 horsepower on the dyno, the Cougar is currently non-operational. American Mustangs has posted the restoration for sale with hopes to get $50,000 from the project. With options ranging from completing the restoration to its original specifications or embracing the potent modified engine, this Cougar, with its nearly rust-free body and complete interior, holds promise for a second chance as a formidable sleeper on the road.

Note To Reader: Car Nut Chronicles is reader supported. We may post content which contains links to affiliate sites such as Amazon where we may earn a small commission. This helps us keep the lights on and the articles you enjoy being produced. Thank you for your readership, we appreciate you!




Restoration

Restored Toyota Chinook Auctioned for over $50,000!

December 29, 2023

This Fully Restored 1978 Toyota Chinook is The Perfect Blend of Nostalgia and Off-Road Capability In today’s burgeoning camper market, the allure of outdoor adventures has never been stronger. Amid the surge in popularity of camper vans, this restored Toyota Chinook stands out as a unique blend of retro charm…

Read More
Restoration

Mercury Cougar GT-E: See The 700-hp Surprise Under Hood!

December 30, 2023

Check out the 772-Horsepower 427 ci Beneath the Hood of the 1968 Mercury Cougar GT-E Sleeper The 1968 Mercury Cougar GT-E stands as a captivating chapter in automotive history, born in the wake of the Mustang’s triumph. Distinguished by its refined design, unique badging, and quad exhaust layout, the GT-E…

Read More
Restoration

Check out this Fully Custom 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300GD Wolf

February 15, 2024

1985 Mercedes-Benz 300GD Wolf Is A Masterpiece of Custom Restoration In the heart of Denver, Colorado, a remarkable automotive gem changed hands recently: a 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300GD Wolf. This vehicle, born from the esteemed lineage of Mercedes-Benz, underwent a meticulous 2-year, body-off restoration by the renowned G-Wagen specialist, Offroad World,…

Read More
Restoration

Corvette Barn Find: After 30 Years Of Neglect Now Saved

January 13, 2024

Join Mid-Year Mitch as He Unveils the Hidden Stories and Challenges of Resurrecting a Vintage 427/435 Tri-Carb Engine Convertible After 30 Years in a Barn. After spending 30 years tucked away in a dust blanket, this 1968 Corvette barn find convertible underwent a transformative first wash by YouTuber Mid-Year Mitch….

Read More
Restoration

Ford Model A Snowmobile That Makes Gearheads Excited

January 13, 2024

Add Some Skis, A Pinch of Homemade Tracks, And Top it Off With The Modified front-end To Make This Awesome Ford Model A Snowmobile In this awesome YouTube video uploaded by Tebo Barn, we check out a cool creation – a 1930 Ford Model A Snowmobile transformed into a unique winter…

Read More

The post Mercury Cougar GT-E: See The 700-hp Surprise Under Hood! first appeared on The Car Nut Chronicles.

]]> 807 Restored Toyota Chinook Auctioned for over $50,000! https://carnutchronicles.com/restoration/restored-toyota-chinook-auctioned-for-over-50000/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=restored-toyota-chinook-auctioned-for-over-50000 Fri, 29 Dec 2023 23:24:50 +0000 https://carnutchronicles.com/?p=797 This Fully Restored 1978 Toyota Chinook is The Perfect Blend of Nostalgia and Off-Road Capability In today’s burgeoning camper market, the allure of outdoor adventures has never been stronger. Amid the surge in popularity of camper vans, this restored Toyota Chinook stands out as a unique blend of retro charm and practicality, offering a middle ground between the iconic VW Westfalia and the robust custom Mercedes Sprinter 4x4s. A few years back, auctioned for $51,450 with fees on Bring a Trailer, the 1978 Toyota Chinook exemplifies a perfect storm of collectibility. With only 15,000 Chinooks built in the late 1970s,

The post Restored Toyota Chinook Auctioned for over $50,000! first appeared on The Car Nut Chronicles.

]]> This Fully Restored 1978 Toyota Chinook is The Perfect Blend of Nostalgia and Off-Road Capability

In today’s burgeoning camper market, the allure of outdoor adventures has never been stronger. Amid the surge in popularity of camper vans, this restored Toyota Chinook stands out as a unique blend of retro charm and practicality, offering a middle ground between the iconic VW Westfalia and the robust custom Mercedes Sprinter 4x4s.

A few years back, auctioned for $51,450 with fees on Bring a Trailer, the 1978 Toyota Chinook exemplifies a perfect storm of collectibility. With only 15,000 Chinooks built in the late 1970s, this camper, sold through Toyota dealers, distinguishes itself with a rugged appearance, thanks to its origins on a Toyota Pickup rear-wheel-drive platform with a fiberglass camping shell.

Restored Toyota Chinook
Toyota Chinook Camper on Road
Interior Upholstery Toyota Chinook
Toyota Camper Interior

A meticulous overhaul was done on the exterior and interior of the Chinook (Photos: BaT)

What sets this particular Chinook apart is its transformation into a four-wheel-drive powerhouse. Crafted by a skilled Toyota mechanic, the builder’s original intent was a factory-fresh restoration. However, fate intervened when a friend crashed a 1980s Toyota Pickup 4×4, leading to a unique melding of the two vehicles. The resulting camper, now equipped with a solid front axle, G52 5-speed transmission, and a dual-range transfer case, is a testament to ingenuity.

Built for off-road exploration, this Chinook boasts a 3-inch front and 4-inch rear lift with 31-inch tires, allowing it to tackle diverse terrains. Its reliability is further underscored by a 2.2-liter 20R SOHC inline-four engine, extensively modified in 1991 for enhanced performance.

2.2L 20R 6-cylinder (Photo: BaT)

This Chinook was originally a Gaucho L model, and it has retained the factory layout and L-shaped couch. Camper features include:

  • Fold-down rear entry step
  • Custom cabinets with interior lighting
  • Custom countertops
  • Stainless-steel sink with custom butcher-block cover
  • Two-burner propane cooktop
  • Built-in microwave
  • Over-cab fold-out bed
  • Dual overhead roll-out hammocks
  • Dinette with L-shaped couch that converts to a bed
  • Stow-away dinette table
  • Custom snap-ring curtains for front cab-over windows and front cabin windows
– Quote From BaT Listing

Beyond its mechanical prowess, the interior of this Chinook is a haven of comfort and nostalgia. Recaro seats from a 1985 Supra, shag carpeting, and period-correct details create a charming living space. The kitchen is well-appointed with a propane stove, refrigerator, and stainless-steel sink, while the dinette transforms into a bed for a comfortable night’s sleep.

The meticulous restoration process is documented in a detailed binder, a testament to the original builder’s passion and dedication. With a history of winning awards at car shows, this Chinook is not merely a camper; it’s a story waiting to be explored.

In a world captivated by the call of the wild, the 1978 fully restored Toyota Chinook stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of adventure on the open road, blending vintage charm with modern off-road capability.

Note To Reader: Car Nut Chronicles is reader supported. We may post content which contains links to affiliate sites such as Amazon where we may earn a small commission. This helps us keep the lights on and the articles you enjoy being produced. Thank you for your readership, we appreciate you!




Restoration

Check out this Fully Custom 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300GD Wolf

February 15, 2024

1985 Mercedes-Benz 300GD Wolf Is A Masterpiece of Custom Restoration In the heart of Denver, Colorado, a remarkable automotive gem changed hands recently: a 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300GD Wolf. This vehicle, born from the esteemed lineage of Mercedes-Benz, underwent a meticulous 2-year, body-off restoration by the renowned G-Wagen specialist, Offroad World,…

Read More
Restoration

Ford Model A Snowmobile That Makes Gearheads Excited

January 13, 2024

Add Some Skis, A Pinch of Homemade Tracks, And Top it Off With The Modified front-end To Make This Awesome Ford Model A Snowmobile In this awesome YouTube video uploaded by Tebo Barn, we check out a cool creation – a 1930 Ford Model A Snowmobile transformed into a unique winter…

Read More
Restoration

Restored Toyota Chinook Auctioned for over $50,000!

December 29, 2023

This Fully Restored 1978 Toyota Chinook is The Perfect Blend of Nostalgia and Off-Road Capability In today’s burgeoning camper market, the allure of outdoor adventures has never been stronger. Amid the surge in popularity of camper vans, this restored Toyota Chinook stands out as a unique blend of retro charm…

Read More
Restoration

Corvette Barn Find: After 30 Years Of Neglect Now Saved

January 13, 2024

Join Mid-Year Mitch as He Unveils the Hidden Stories and Challenges of Resurrecting a Vintage 427/435 Tri-Carb Engine Convertible After 30 Years in a Barn. After spending 30 years tucked away in a dust blanket, this 1968 Corvette barn find convertible underwent a transformative first wash by YouTuber Mid-Year Mitch….

Read More

The post Restored Toyota Chinook Auctioned for over $50,000! first appeared on The Car Nut Chronicles.

]]> 797