1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 - Nut-and-Bolt Frame-Off
Restoration
This 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS is an exceptionally well-executed
example that combines classic Super Sport styling with a
professionally built big-block drivetrain and an extensively
restored chassis. The restoration was taken down to the frame, and
the accompanying restoration photos document the body separated
from the chassis during the build, along with the refinished frame,
suspension, rear axle, and related components.
Highlights
High-end nut-and-bolt frame-off restoration
Restoration photos document the body removed from the chassis
Built 396ci Big-Block V8
Approximately 440 horsepower
Roller camshaft and roller lifters
Roller rocker arms
Edelbrock aluminum cylinder heads
M22 4-speed manual transmission
Power steering
Power brakes
RPO F41 suspension
New suspension components throughout
Powder-coated frame
Powder-coated suspension components
Powder-coated rear axle
Polished stainless-steel dual exhaust
MagnaFlow mufflers
Black exterior with white SS stripes
Cowl-induction-style hood
SS 396 exterior badging
Black bucket-seat interior
Center console
Factory-style instrumentation
Additional under-dash AutoMeter gauges
SS-style wheels with BFGoodrich Radial T/A tires
Detailed engine compartment
Highly detailed undercarriage
The centerpiece of the build is a 396ci Chevrolet big-block that
has been upgraded with a roller camshaft, roller lifters, roller
rocker arms, and Edelbrock aluminum cylinder heads. Output is
stated at approximately 440 horsepower. The engine bay presents
extremely well, with polished components, a polished aluminum
intake, aluminum valve covers, open-element air cleaner, and a
clean black engine compartment.
Power is sent through an M22 4-speed manual transmission, giving
the Chevelle the traditional big-block/four-speed combination
enthusiasts look for. The underside photos show a very clean
installation with the transmission, driveshaft, rear axle,
suspension, and exhaust all clearly visible.
The chassis restoration is one of the strongest aspects of this
car. The frame, suspension components, and rear axle were powder
coated during the restoration, and the suspension is stated to be
new throughout. The car is equipped with RPO F41 suspension, power
steering, and power-assisted brakes. Restoration photographs
supplied with the Chevelle show the body removed from the frame and
the chassis being rebuilt separately, providing valuable
documentation of the extent of the restoration.
A polished stainless-steel dual exhaust system runs the length of
the car and exits through MagnaFlow mufflers. The underside is
exceptionally clean and detailed, with restored floor pans,
suspension, rear axle, exhaust, and chassis components presenting
to the same standard as the exterior.
The exterior is finished in deep black with contrasting white SS
stripes over the cowl-induction-style hood. SS grille treatment, SS
396 fender emblems, hood pins, chrome bumpers, and period-style
wheels maintain the unmistakable appearance of a 1970 Super Sport.
BFGoodrich Radial T/A tires complete the traditional muscle-car
stance.
Inside, the Chevelle retains a largely period-correct appearance
with black bucket seats, a center console, floor-mounted 4-speed
shifter, factory-style gauges, and SS door-panel trim. Additional
AutoMeter Carbon Fiber Ultra-Lite gauges monitor water temperature,
oil pressure, voltage, and engine RPM.
What separates this Chevelle from many restored examples is the
consistency of the workmanship. The paint, interior, engine
compartment, chassis, and underside were all addressed as part of
the build rather than concentrating only on the areas visible from
above. The restoration photographs further reinforce that this was
a genuine frame-off build, not simply a cosmetic refurbishment.
For someone looking for a thoroughly restored 1970 Chevelle SS with
a built big-block, M22 4-speed, upgraded suspension, excellent
cosmetics, and a highly detailed undercarriage, this is an
outstanding example.
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