my grandpa just gave me his 64 el camino that has been sitting in a barn for at least 10 years and i wanted to get it going again. first off i was wondering if a 350 will fit into a 64? also i was curious if the drive train and axels could withstand the torque and power of a 350? also, if anyone knows where i could find a repair manual or anything like that for a 64 please tell me. thanks for any help.

Yes the Small block Chevy engine hasn't really changed in the last 50 or so years, externally anyway. The Elky frame has spots for the motor mounts use the set of holes in the foremost part of the front cross member. Or if you already have a V8 use those mount holes on the frame, they should be the same.

So a family owned 2nd gen, very cool. Welcome to ECC / NECOA. Does that 64 have a 235 6 in it or a 283? You'll probably want to change to an HEI distributor. I would consider upgrading the wiring also, your wiring harness is very old and very weak. Wouldn't want any fires under the dash or hood after you invest a bunch of cash in the truck. I'd consider upgrading the brakes, at least the front to 11" disks. You'll want that truck to stop at the end of the run.

I'd rebuild the rear end, you'll probably not like the gear ratio it has now and its 40 next year so redoing the rear end will help it last another 40 maybe the body bushings and rear bushings also. But the rear end would work fine if you did refresh the bearings and seals and change the gears.

To me its like a 40 year old engine. Could be a good one but after 40 years it needs a rebuild it will not last a long long time and if it has been sitting for 10 then most of the seals are shot in the engine, rear end, transmission etc... the rubber bushings are more than likely gone or useless, gas tank has trash in it. Fuel line at the tank is probably dry rotted.

These are just the thoughts that I'd have if I were about to do what your going to. Nothing lasts for ever without good care and even then things brake. Inspect it really good. I'd frame off restore/restify it, it is well worth the time and cash.

Congratulations on the Elky! :-)

What Pete states is true. Unless your Elky has rusted badly it is well worth the time and effort to restore it properly. If you can afford it. A lot of money can be saved by doing the restoration yourself, but if you don't have the experience you'll need help, that may or may not cost a great deal of money depending on who you know. Irregardless the car is definately worth saving. There are many members here that are very knowledgeable and can answer the questions you'll have. I'm sure that there's also some members drooling over the fact that your grand dad gave you a 64 Elky, me being one of them. Good luck on your project and welcome to ECC.