Hey all, been working on a 1984 El Camino for about two years. My stepfather loved the older El's. (82-84 range)

He drove several into ground and gave me one to use as a trash truck at my bodyshop. I was never a big fan of that year (I love the '69'ish years) but he was so I started to semi restore it with a few mods.... that was about 3 years ago.

I have two bodyshops which one does restorations for big jobs. (we recently finished a '63 split window Corvette for Rick Hendrick for his personal musuem). Point is, with us being busy, the El got kicked to the curb a few times.

My father got cancer and passed away before I could finish it for him. Because it was for him, I continued with it and now will drive it in his memory.

Excuse the cell phone pics but here's a few pics. (also excuse the rough look on the paint, it still has "spray mask" on it to protect it from overspray)

Painted everything black and installed a smooth front bumper with a cowl hood.

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y294/MyBlueC5/El%20Camino/f43ecf62.jpg

Shaved and rolled the lower front edge of the fender to match the smooth front bumper.

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y294/MyBlueC5/El%20Camino/d1c2098d.jpg

Went with a set of old school style wheels and shaved the chrome railing on top of the bed.

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y294/MyBlueC5/El%20Camino/2f3c4906.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y294/MyBlueC5/El%20Camino/8452c235.jpg

Lined the inside of the bed.

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y294/MyBlueC5/El%20Camino/bf9ed48a.jpg

Shaved the license pocket.

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y294/MyBlueC5/El%20Camino/21f6ddc9.jpg

Last but not least, redid the seats and interior.

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y294/MyBlueC5/El%20Camino/b198c9af.jpg

I'll get better pics when I get done. It kills me that I didn't finish it for him before he passed away but I think when it's done, I'm going to order a set of personalized tags that say FOR DAD and drive the shiet out of it.

Mark

Welcome to the site, I 'm down in the Raleigh area if you need anything. There are a few members your way. Good luck with your ride, make your dad proud!

Welcome to the site! She's looking real good! I'm sorry about your dad, but I know he'd be very proud of you. :smile2:

Hey OrangeCrush,

What an inspiring story!
This is what this site is all about. I was beginning to think that ECC had lost it's true meaning, but your story gives me hope.
I'd love to see the final product with you inside and that license plate outside.
All the best to you and good luck! :You_Rock:

Danny

Thanks guys... I ran into a problem with some wiring (boy, did I feel stupid when I found the answer) but another member answered immediately and helped.

I didn't want to just take and run so I thought I'd at least introduce myself.

I'll be sure to post pics when done and with the plate.

Mark

For Dad!!!!!:nanawrench:
Great to have you and great job (for your dad!!!!)
Donny:texas:

Welcome aboard, Mark. The El Camino looks great. Doug

Welcome and I think you have a real good start on that Elco and I think buy the time you finish it you'll find yourself closer to it and your DAD in your heart.Doing things out of selflessness has a way of doing that.

WELCOME orangecrush!! Great story and an nice job on the ELK! Love the plate and it`s rememberance of your Dad!

welcone OC
looks nice,,drive it till the wheels fall off,,for dad. :texas:

I'm glad I could help you out and am pleased to see that someone treasures that which their father treasured. My dad drove El Caminos as well.

Good to see you here Mark - your Dad has a wonderful son - that's all Dad's ever really want.

I hope you'll stay on board with us - a talented guy like you is an asset to our club

Glad to read about your Camino and that your dad is a good part of it . I know it`s a bit of a drive but thought if possible for you to do, would be to drive over and do part of the Hot Rod Magazine`s Power Tour that starts in early June . I think your dad would like that . Several of us are doing the part from Cocoa Beach , Fl. to Nashville . It would be cool to meet up and roll out with some other Caminos along the way . There is a forum going in region 6 , Fl. Enjoy your ride and think of your dad .

welcome aboard sorry to hear about your dad finish the car and enjoy it like your dad would:You_Rock:

Glad you finally found your way to here, Mark. Welcome to the board. Now, however, you gotta tell us about that nickname "Orangecrush"... as long as it's a PG rated story!

Could be a Bronco's fan. Welcome Mark, great story. The Camino is looking great.

Hello Orangecrush, What a beautiful story and you are a great son that your dad raised. I hope that tag is not taken and you get your finishing touch to your beautiful car. I was born in Gastonia, but grew up in Calif. and moved back to the east coast in 95. If you are getting that car ready for car shows, perhaps we will run into each other. Looking forward to seeing more photos in the near future and again welcome to a beautiful site of El Camino lovers here. Michael in South Boston, VA