Don't be alarmed; Project True SStreet has not actually caught fire (at least not yet). Last month we introduced the once-ignored G-body to the diverse crowd of valued SUPER CHEVY readers. While some think the mid-'80s Monte Carlo is good for nothing more than a battle at the local demolition derby or being cut up for use on the roundy-round track, we are out to prove otherwise. These '80s G-bodies deserve love and respect, plus they're stylish, rear-wheel-drive, and fairly affordable. What's not to like?
Once the Monte had three generous...
Once the Monte had three generous coats of primer/sealer applied, Anthony gave it an extensive visual inspection to check for any imperfections that would require last-minute attention. Once all is considered to be 100 percent, the wet-sanding procedure can begin. At first, the entire car was wet-sanded with 400-grit, followed by 600-grit for finishing.
We've recently received a few e-mails from the SUPER CHEVY faithful claiming that it's difficult to find parts for these beasts. Sure, parts are not as readily available as those for the F-bodies or box Novas of yore, but seek and ye shall find. Sometimes you have no other option than to hit the local boneyard or swap meet to aid in the resurrection of a project. Many enthusiasts get more satisfaction out of refurbishing an older, soon-to-be-thrown-out component rather than placing a phone call and having one delivered to the front door within days. Not to preach about what's right or wrong, but everybody has his own preference.
In the last issue, we stripped down our G-body, ridding it of the stock hood, side mirrors, bumpers, as well as other miscellaneous items, clearing the way for bodywork to begin. While Project True SStreet was not in the best condition (spending the majority of its life outside in the ever-changing climates of the Northeast), it was in decent condition, with only minor blemishes of surface rust, as well as slightly more advanced rot around the rear wheel opening. Anthony's Auto Body in Shrewsbury, New Jersey, stepped in and brought the G-body back to form.
After placing a few phone calls, we obtained a new front bumper cover, air deflector, and fender extensions from Original Parts Group in Huntington Beach, California, as well as a new steel cowl induction hood from Year One in Braselton, Georgia. As previously mentioned, there is not much available through the aftermarket for these cars, but we did find these components relatively easily. We're optimistic that the more popular the G-body becomes, the more products will become available.
Pictured is the sandpaper...
Pictured is the sandpaper along with the stiff foam pad used to block out the car. The foam pad and water aid against distortion while sanding.
As our buildsheet lengthens, we'll introduce our readers to a plethora of manufacturers that will aid in the beautification, performance, and handling of Project True SStreet. As of right now, we are sticking to our guns by building a small-block 406 with a blow-through Procharger. Key players that have recently committed to the project include Chris Alston's Chassisworks, Strange Engineering, Lunati, Dart, and AFR, to name a few. Keep fixated on our latest Bow Tie project, as we will provide key information on how to build your own killer street/strip Chevy.
Part 2 of Project True SStreet brought us back to Anthony's Auto Body to put the finishing touches on the Monte's carcass. Certified body technician Anthony Guerriero went through a series of wet-sanding procedures before rolling True SStreet back into the spray booth to add a splash of color.
 Back in the spray booth, the...  Back in the spray booth, the Monte was completely wiped down with Lesonal surface cleaner/degreaser before any painting could begin. |  It's very important to achieve...  It's very important to achieve the smoothest, cleanest foundation before painting any vehicle. One slight bit of foreign matter can wreak havoc while performing any paint job. |  Next, we followed Anthony...  Next, we followed Anthony into the paint room. Anthony's is fully equipped with an arsenal of different paint colors, as well as needed additives. |