80s Built Chevelle Drag Car - Will It RUN AND DRIVE 450 miles home?

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  • čas přidán 29. 12. 2022
  • Independence Chevelle is officially retired. Time to find another fighter! The opportunity to own this 10 second street/strip chevelle popped up, and a guy couldn't say no. Let's see if we can get it fired back up, and drive it home! This is a garage build drag car from the 80s, and was last ran on the strip in 1988.
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    #VGG #chevelle #dragcar
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Komentáře • 10K

  • @ViceGripGarage
    @ViceGripGarage  Před rokem +5054

    ATTENTION: There is no "winner", I won't "hit you up", there is no VGG "telegram". Anyone wanting gas money, shipping money, saying you won something, I'll send you moms cook book for $50, etc. is a SCAM. Please don't fall for it. There's ONE VICE GRIP GARAGE USER ONLY AND IT HAS A GRAY CHECKMARK BEHIND IT! Also, Thank you. Thank you for your loyalty and viewership, it's very much appreciated!

    • @behemothpowersports5958
      @behemothpowersports5958 Před rokem +144

      So sad, folks try to scam people. At least I got your moms cook book out of it for 50$. Only hope my gift cards I sent you worked😊

    • @andysmith2621
      @andysmith2621 Před rokem +67

      I'd like a copy of that cook book if a guy gets a hankering to sell one! 😁

    • @mcintyretyler89
      @mcintyretyler89 Před rokem +28

      Mom's cook book? Well how did that get all the way out here?

    • @timothymetzler7715
      @timothymetzler7715 Před rokem +17

      It's sad but usually scammers come from wealthy countries

    • @williamrandall6472
      @williamrandall6472 Před rokem +27

      Thank you Derek,as well as the entire VGG family for a great year of content. I would love to wish each,and every one of you a Happy New Year, as well as Abundant Blessings, perfect peace, Happiness, most importantly, perfect health throughout the year. I am absolutely 💯 looking forward to 2023 content, I know it's just going to be every bit as awesome as 2022!

  • @nicklas_vn
    @nicklas_vn Před rokem +2002

    Derek's personality, the way he speaks, and goofs around, mixed in with these car revivals. Makes sitting through a 2hour long CZcams video, like it's nothing and still wanting more. Just goes to show how amazing VGG channels content is.

    • @mrb.5610
      @mrb.5610 Před rokem +33

      I've noticed that the better the car, the less the goofing !

    • @bodarville2510
      @bodarville2510 Před rokem +100

      I like the long videos. These are much better than what’s on TV.

    • @gerhardbaumann7233
      @gerhardbaumann7233 Před rokem +27

      @@bodarville2510 You are so right.

    • @matthewmoore8125
      @matthewmoore8125 Před rokem +21

      I absolutely agree. I love these videos!

    • @keitharnett2647
      @keitharnett2647 Před rokem +21

      Great revival, who needs TV

  • @ginodimarco1153
    @ginodimarco1153 Před 10 měsíci +113

    Not for nothing, but I'm an HVAC mechanic in Texas. I've been watching so many of these videos (&loving them) that I've started to speak like Derrick when I talk to my customers. I've never gotten more 5 star reviews or made as much profit. Thanks, man. You're approach to mechanics in general has helped me more than I can tell you.

    • @yohanathandowns9057
      @yohanathandowns9057 Před 7 měsíci +8

      Bring the thunder!
      *Cap explodes*

    • @loganbaum1072
      @loganbaum1072 Před 6 měsíci +4

      Hey I’m an HVAC technician here in Texas also. I’ve just recently stumbled across this guys videos. Makes me want to get out of hvac and build classic cars!

    • @jonboatmorava9115
      @jonboatmorava9115 Před 5 měsíci

      I ain't no HVAC guy but I know about every 2 years I change out my flux capacitor when the fan starts to wine about starting.😅 One year I found out the hard way it certainly will bring the thunder. 😅

    • @Kunfucious577
      @Kunfucious577 Před 5 měsíci +1

      I bet it helps the customers to relate to you a lot better.

    • @benjaminbills1998
      @benjaminbills1998 Před 5 měsíci

      also hvac guy and cant agree more. its nice to learn something and solve these issues on these old cars. and it does help in relating with the customers a lot.

  • @davidbush3834
    @davidbush3834 Před rokem +353

    Go through the engine, fix the shock problem leave the finish clean replace the radiator and the see how strong it really is. I personally don’t care for the abuse of burnout competition; I came up having to scrape and save for every single thing I had. So I have a great respect for well put together machines.

    • @mikemullay5622
      @mikemullay5622 Před rokem +58

      David, I agree with you. I find burnout competition is basically an abuse of machinery. I don't care for it.

    • @cannon3267
      @cannon3267 Před rokem +13

      agree.... the 400SM is defenatly worth rebuilding. keep it a shiner, call it sky blue. but some magnetic business cards on it and hit the show and shine circuit.

    • @tmikkelsen8066
      @tmikkelsen8066 Před rokem +39

      I just think its boring to watch. I mean yeah. You can spin some doughnuts and make some smoke. Ok. Lol.

    • @juniorskidmore7602
      @juniorskidmore7602 Před rokem +18

      Yep! What they said 👆

    • @stevet647
      @stevet647 Před rokem +17

      I like the Drag and Drive as it is performance designed to live longer than a season but possibly if Derek wanted to enter burnout Comp's still a "rescue" of some less desirable vehicle throw on a blow through turbo welded up with batteries or similar just to get the last gasp out of something destined for a Sawzall and the scrap metal bin. Getting something from an auction even and work around the bleep bloops and press all the budget up arrows.
      Burnout cars do not last long when they hit a barrier in the smoke cloud.

  • @michigandogman3060
    @michigandogman3060 Před rokem +149

    I was filling my semi and the filler popped out of the tank and poured a large puddle of diesel on the ground. I asked the ladies behind the counter if they had quick dry, they looked at me kinda dumbfounded and said, we do but you’re the first guy to ever ask to clean up his mess, most just leave it 🤷🏻‍♂️. Guess I was raised right 😂

    • @nate.hanlon
      @nate.hanlon Před rokem +1

      ok

    • @Ghettochappy
      @Ghettochappy Před rokem +5

      Humble brag

    • @brandonhewitt2386
      @brandonhewitt2386 Před rokem +12

      @@Ghettochappy Hell, everyone needs some praise every now and then. I know when I was in my teens & early 20's I needed it & was known to fish for it. No harm done. @michigandogman3060 you were indeed raised right & you're more than likely a helluva guy! Don't let anyone shame you for wanting praise or acknowledgement! If you feel like you need it, go & get you some! Even if you don't deserve it, odds are the things you do & say to get it will be praise worthy & will make you a better person. Sorry for the rant, I'm just really sick of all the negativity & assholishness people spew to belittle others to make themselves look better.

    • @SeraphimCherubim
      @SeraphimCherubim Před rokem +4

      Good job!

    • @michigandogman3060
      @michigandogman3060 Před rokem +10

      @@Ghettochappy nah if I was bragging I would have told how I emptied the trash, fixed their refrigeration unit, swept the floors and restocked the shelves 😂

  • @yourdrmckuku
    @yourdrmckuku Před rokem +36

    This guy is incredible.
    He's the mechanic that every carpenter wants to be.
    Great show
    Bad ass 71
    Im hooked.
    Thanks
    JC
    Houston

  • @IdealElectricinc
    @IdealElectricinc Před rokem +21

    I wouldn’t change a thing!! Drive it and enjoy it! What a great history this car has. Love it!!!!

    • @blackIce504
      @blackIce504 Před 6 měsíci +1

      maybe fix and restore some wireing like for indicators and switchs that do nothing. but i agree with what your saying...

  • @ryanroberts3742
    @ryanroberts3742 Před rokem +137

    I'm in love with that Chevelle and I would love it if before you do anything on that ol rig, take it to the strip and make a few passes. Lets see what a 1980s build really can do in an 1/8th or 1/4

    • @CJManning86
      @CJManning86 Před rokem +6

      Hell yeah my guy! I'd love to see Derek make this a street rod for dragging on the weekends but able to also be a daily... errr... well maaybe a going to town rig for when you got a date right before you gotta smoke some fellas lmfao

    • @dr.mantistoboggan4746
      @dr.mantistoboggan4746 Před rokem +2

      14.7 all day baby!

    • @garrittpwl
      @garrittpwl Před rokem +1

      it'll be lucky to run a low 13

    • @TrollingHistory
      @TrollingHistory Před rokem

      RC cars often 1/8 but youll struggle with quarter scale. Its not impossible theres afew 1/4th scales out there its the body youll struggle with most but mayb somebody did do a Chevell they definitly have the V8 engine. The conley V8 rc engine is a work of art too. 1/4 scale V8 expensive asF though.

    • @Skyfire_The_Goth
      @Skyfire_The_Goth Před rokem +4

      @@TrollingHistory I think you got the wrong idea from the OP. They aren't talking scale with 1/8th or 1/4, they are talking fractions of miles.

  • @moparman1962
    @moparman1962 Před rokem +91

    Derek, I vote you keep the engine that's in it, fix whatever needs fixin' or upgradin' (new rad, quick release steering wheel, new seat brackets, disc brakes, new shocks, beefier trans w/overdrive and trans brake, better posi unit?, large fuel cell in the trunk) and keep the nice blue paint. Maybe you could call the ol' girl "Blue Lightning", maybe even put some decals with that on her. As quite a few people have said, keeping the original engine and paint and driving the car would be old-school-cool...and we'd like to see you dyno that engine after you have everything worked out (new double roller chain or gear drive for the cam when you replace the timing cover?), take it and drag race it and see what kind of best times it can do.

    • @jackuul
      @jackuul Před rokem +1

      I would like to second, third, and fourth and a half this! Just plop a VGG logo on each door, is all I figure it would need. A blue tinted version, that said VGG with "Blue Lightning" below.

    • @jackdonkey22
      @jackdonkey22 Před rokem +5

      Yeah I want to see the times it can get with the current setup.

    • @brucerae5522
      @brucerae5522 Před rokem +1

      What they said

    • @warrenmichael918
      @warrenmichael918 Před rokem +1

      I agree with everything EXCEPT keeping the engine. Its most likely a great drag engine but i think it might not be the best to tour around and do the drag n drive events he will want to be doing.

    • @tonybosworth5382
      @tonybosworth5382 Před rokem +2

      Yep….just like that!
      Add OD trans and enjoy. Hot Rod Tour in that will be classic!

  • @nickp701
    @nickp701 Před rokem +38

    Dude this thing left me wanting more footage. The stock look was sick. The color was perfect for the car. It's definitely setup to get down. Really badass.

  • @TheSecretOfNem
    @TheSecretOfNem Před 7 měsíci +8

    Love the cammed out sound of this beast. Brings back memories of a teenager hanging with the older gear-heads and learning a thing or three.

  • @keithpowers2421
    @keithpowers2421 Před rokem +55

    Favorite thing for me and my son to do on Friday evenings, is watch VGG on the big screen with some snacks and just chill out. Thank you for being down home, good clean content to share with my son

  • @fiaschifabrications4852
    @fiaschifabrications4852 Před rokem +26

    Definitely made John’s day with that burnout😂😂

    • @21jojijo
      @21jojijo Před rokem +2

      Amen! I could see him smilin'.

  • @philtwowheels
    @philtwowheels Před 11 měsíci +11

    The fifty weight that runs in a fellers veins warmed up to temperature watching this. This car is just awesome can't wait to see more of it. Keep up the great work with everything Derek, massive respect to you.

  • @jondekerguelen
    @jondekerguelen Před 6 měsíci +8

    I’ve been reading many of the comments here and it’s quite clear that everyone loves your videos. And, I definitely agree with their opinion. Besides, you’re clearly a very kind and likable person, so I must say thank you very much for what you do!

  • @konfyoused
    @konfyoused Před rokem +377

    I'm thinking keep it as it is for this coming season. Just go through it and make sure everything is right and maybe swap in an overdrive shiftomatic. It would be really, really interesting to see what it will run as it sits as soon as the tracks open back up!

  • @derekreams2453
    @derekreams2453 Před rokem +78

    Another great episode and a beautiful chevelle. I vote keep the paint, keep the 400 (maybe add a lil spice), make it a drag and drive event car. I personally watch all of them I can. Be great to to see Derek in a VGG car making passes. Two names come to mind, Liberty & Justice. To stick with the theme.

    • @leemclemore4370
      @leemclemore4370 Před rokem +3

      Agree! Keep the paint and the 400! Maybe a trans with overdrive and fix up a couple things.

    • @Ian-gd3kr
      @Ian-gd3kr Před rokem +3

      Seeing as the car is already set up for smaller humans, maybe make it an old school drag car for the wife, then something your kids can learn on?

  • @quest4adventure495
    @quest4adventure495 Před 7 měsíci +3

    This is therapeutic to just listen to. Takes me back to hanging out in the garage and listening to my uncles bs while they worked on project cars.

  • @refuztosay9454
    @refuztosay9454 Před 10 měsíci +2

    You know you’re a geezer when a couple of vice grip drives-homes is Saturday nite’s entertainment 😮

  • @WhiskeyTuber
    @WhiskeyTuber Před rokem +148

    Call it liberty, wrap it up, and give it the wallet so it'll be 100% dependable for the drive and drags. Itll never be independence 2.0 but it can fill its shoes in its own way. Oh, and keep the motor just spruce it up since its pretty solid as a hat tip to the old timer who put it together.

    • @tildenharper
      @tildenharper Před rokem +8

      Liberty or Freedom Chevelle, so it is in the same theme as Independence and 1776 but isn't a copycat.

    • @erikbergstrom258
      @erikbergstrom258 Před rokem +4

      i second that but also keep the interior as is as much as possible so old skool cool

    • @Hobodeluxe960
      @Hobodeluxe960 Před rokem +3

      a bald eagle on the hood would be cool with the liberty bell on the rear deck. VGG license plate :)

    • @stevemowat4294
      @stevemowat4294 Před rokem +9

      Liberty is a great name for this Chevelle that will roam the roads and drag strips of the USA!

    • @manchu9inf
      @manchu9inf Před rokem +6

      Agreed, call it Liberty.

  • @hwi7114
    @hwi7114 Před rokem +82

    Not a single other channel on CZcams that I'll watch a 2 hour video on, but I enjoy every minute of yours. Thanks for all the awesome and enjoyable content, I really appreciate all the hard work you put in.

    • @robertz.757
      @robertz.757 Před rokem +3

      Yup......I'm Absolutely With U 'Bout The "2Hr"(10-15min 4Me) Deal. He's Always Happy & Positive, Educational, Intelligent & Funny/Witty W/Out Bein' Political, Whiney or Vulgar & I Really Appreciate That, Especially These Days as it's Hard 2Find Anymore. U & Ur's Have a HAPPY NEW YEAR My Friend.💯🤙🥃😶✌️🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

  • @paulkramer9666
    @paulkramer9666 Před 7 měsíci +2

    Back in the mid 1990s, I flew out and bought a 1968 Dodge Coronet R/T, 440 Torqueflite for $4,500 and drove it 500 miles back from Chicago to Pittsburgh. It was a western car in primer, with zero rust and all numbers matching. The engine and transmission and brakes (Kelsey Hays four piston discs) were great but all the tires were bald, the U joints crapped out in western Ohio, it had no wipers (rained like hell), one headlight. In short not "road worthy". I also had no plates.
    But I lucked out and found a garage and motel in the middle of nowhere before nightfall, and the guy that ran the garage dug car. Cost around $400 to get everything squared away and made it back in two days taking old US route 40.
    I liked that trip. Every time I stopped for gas, which was pretty often with the 440 Magnum and 3:55 gears, the mechanics at the stations would check out the car because they knew what it was, even though it had none of the R/T trim pieces, they were all in the trunk.They saw the "power buldge" hood and recognized the 440 Magnum just by the sound.
    Adventure!

  • @HansonBrothershand
    @HansonBrothershand Před rokem +4

    Thanks Derek. This is Derrick from Spokane Washington. I have a old Toyota 4 runner in my shop and a 89 chevy heavy half ton sitting in my shop that hasn't run in 10 years. I lost interest in when we lost a child we had in our life's. We think of him as a son. After returning home after duty from Afghanistan. Your stuff has given me insight and inspiration to get them running. Once more. Thank you brother. Love your stuff your awesome

  • @markkeller1778
    @markkeller1778 Před rokem +87

    Thank you Derek for the Christmas barrage of content, it was this "feller's" present. You and Jessica ROCK!

    • @Yippa391
      @Yippa391 Před rokem +4

      I'll second this

    • @Hurst_Hemi
      @Hurst_Hemi Před rokem +2

      I'll third it

    • @ViceGripGarage
      @ViceGripGarage  Před rokem +2

      Happy holidays!

    • @garybonness5056
      @garybonness5056 Před rokem

      @@ViceGripGarage happy holidays to you and your family. you already gave her a few good names yourself "Dead Miss", "Missleading". or a guy could just call her Problem Child or something cool like that.

  • @proracer382d
    @proracer382d Před rokem +50

    I swear every time I watch a new episode I say “this is my favorite episode” you just keep out doing yourself VGG.

    • @my95buick
      @my95buick Před rokem +1

      Seems like a worthy successor to independence…

    • @bobr2959
      @bobr2959 Před rokem +1

      Agree! He needs to hear that. He needs encouraged.

  • @markwagoner3599
    @markwagoner3599 Před měsícem +2

    You are so very beyond the " this build is going to break me" and the rest of the bull***t catch phrases that the other people put out it's refreshing. I like the way you goof around and help me to pass the time. I'm old and don't get around much anymore, and I appreciate your calm laid back ways.

  • @ElmoIsBold
    @ElmoIsBold Před 7 měsíci +3

    Always a bit of the "Mad Max" vibe when Derek drives a wild beast home.

  • @iwantmyvanback
    @iwantmyvanback Před rokem +193

    Wow. I can't believe Derek is still giving out this content for free. What an amazing guy! I love every episode. And it's great to see such a genuine guy having fun and providing for his family. I love Vice Grip Garage.

    • @Chanselor
      @Chanselor Před rokem +8

      Hopefully Motor Trend doesn't try to stick all of his content behind pay walls like everything else.

    • @iwantmyvanback
      @iwantmyvanback Před rokem +8

      @@Chanselor yeah, for real! They ruined Roadkill when they took all their episodes off CZcams and tried to make too much money. I actually haven't seen any of his Motor Trend content yet

    • @sherry73
      @sherry73 Před rokem

      Whatcha mean "free'???
      He's not monetized?

    • @sherry73
      @sherry73 Před rokem

      Impossible, there's far too much work going into this channel

    • @iwantmyvanback
      @iwantmyvanback Před rokem +4

      @@sherry73 oh I mean it's free for us. We don't have to pay a subscription price just to access it. Of course he's making money, haha.

  • @FalingDutchman
    @FalingDutchman Před rokem +55

    I honestly like these more then the motortrend ones, these feel more genuine IMO. Keep em coming please :)

    • @shospulecolupis9718
      @shospulecolupis9718 Před rokem

      Agree eleventy billion point six percent! The MT produced stuff is interesting and I like it too, but its waaaay over produced. Derek's home brew is much much better. If I'm going to pay to watch this dancing monkey, it'll be through a membership!

    • @raoulcruz4404
      @raoulcruz4404 Před rokem +8

      The Motortrend ones have a constant background music. I find it really annoying, especially while Derek is talking. He’s his own show, doesn’t need any help.

    • @jacobtinucci2642
      @jacobtinucci2642 Před rokem +2

      Scheduling too I'm sure, we can have a 2 hour video here with no problems but cramming the revival, the drive, and modifications into 40 minutes is tough. But it's the only show on TV like it and it's Derek so I still watch every episode

    • @305sergio
      @305sergio Před rokem +8

      VGG hasn’t skipped a beat (heck, there’s many here that don’t even know the other show exists)... which means MT‘s “Roadworthy Rescues” is just added bonus-like content.
      Don’t knock a guy for expanding the VGG empire and maybe adding a few shekels to the ol‘ wallet.
      😉

    • @travisfowler8345
      @travisfowler8345 Před rokem +4

      I agree I'm thankful they allowed him to continue his own revivals I was really afraid in his contract they would kill his ability to continue his own revivals seeing as it could be considered competition for their show...
      But on his own show he is able to do him ad doesn't have to follow their requests... And your editor can make or break a YT Channel IMO

  • @joshholden8561
    @joshholden8561 Před 9 měsíci +2

    This might be 1 of the nicest chevelles ive seen just really clean and put up

  • @GodSaveTheUnitedStates
    @GodSaveTheUnitedStates Před rokem +5

    I could tell how excited he was when he cranked it for the first time and heard that cam. He looked like a child on Christmas morning. Congrats on the great find Derek!

  • @briansawdo6245
    @briansawdo6245 Před rokem +84

    It’s awesome to see a guy working on the engine of a muscle car in a small garage just like this guy did back in the day. Bringing back some memories. Thank you Derek.

  • @lindanelson8400
    @lindanelson8400 Před rokem +113

    Love the car, love the color. I had a 68 Chevelle the same color. Before you think about swapping the engine out I think it would be well worth the effort to dig into the 400 small block. It sounds like it should be absolutely wicked fast.

    • @kevinjohnson8758
      @kevinjohnson8758 Před rokem +12

      💯 agreed. 400 pretty rare nowadays. Upgrade and enjoy. First trouble shoot. Good stuff.

    • @moneybag7559
      @moneybag7559 Před rokem +11

      @@kevinjohnson8758 Im from Australia and know very little about older vehicles, that being said, id love to see it as it is brought back to life as is. By the soundfs ofit, it already has all the goodies so why not right?

    • @EpicToadRage
      @EpicToadRage Před rokem +3

      I had a 70 the same color.
      If you look at my channel, there is a couple videos of it.
      Sadly, an old man insurance scammed me, and it was totaled. 😭

    • @PRyMEvilProductions
      @PRyMEvilProductions Před rokem +7

      100% refresh that engine and set her up for the drag and drives

    • @kevinshanley1174
      @kevinshanley1174 Před rokem +8

      Keep the 400. I've regretted dumping one off for 39 years now.

  • @jefferyvetrono6259
    @jefferyvetrono6259 Před 6 měsíci +1

    I am going to share something with you that my dad taught me. I was going through a quart every 2000mi. Dad was a master mechanic in WW11 in the Southern Pacific. When he came out he secured a job at Beloit bus barns. He rebuilt engines,trans' and differentials. Drove when needed. So dad says try Mobil. I did and never burned a drop again. My pops taught me a lot!!!

  • @Giitzerland
    @Giitzerland Před 8 měsíci +2

    That is a PERFECT time capsule! You have an opportunity to run an absolute beast example of 80/90's hot rod tech, in all it's beauty. I wouldn't change a single thing, and just fix what's broken. That is a beautiful thing!

  • @ruldadsly
    @ruldadsly Před rokem +35

    Leave the paint, Call her "Declaration" since she's Declairing her INDEPENDENCE from INDEPENDENCE! Awesome video as always VGG!

    • @JustSayin042
      @JustSayin042 Před rokem +1

      Way better than names I chose. Maybe Derekaration.

    • @uzivatel56
      @uzivatel56 Před rokem

      That or Mayflower

    • @jacknimble1
      @jacknimble1 Před rokem

      I vote leave the paint and don't wrap it. The paint is not show quality and isn't the exact color of the original anyway. Restore all the running gear to perfection and just have fun with it and don't worry about perfect paint.

  • @freedomsound4469
    @freedomsound4469 Před rokem +34

    Derek I will say again- the amount of work you guys put into producing this much content is just amazing. Love the tech info and the car story revealed. You deserve all your success.

  • @croweknowsmowers1877
    @croweknowsmowers1877 Před 6 měsíci +1

    I love your sense of humor, you could be a weekly show on tv!

    • @croweknowsmowers1877
      @croweknowsmowers1877 Před 4 měsíci

      Was going to be a comedian but was afraid that people would laugh at me!

  • @ElmoIsBold
    @ElmoIsBold Před 7 měsíci +5

    I feel compelled to declare just how much I like this guy's little garage. Tells me I'd probably also really like the guy that owns the garage.

  • @justbugme1978
    @justbugme1978 Před rokem +30

    Derek after watching you for a long time now you are the Bob Ross of the vehicles. The way you talk makes it easy for people to understand what ur doing and make it so others can work on their own cars. Let me tell you I can't paint like Bob Ross but I can work on a car like you. Thanks for all you do!!!!

    • @SirCoolJerk1030
      @SirCoolJerk1030 Před 7 měsíci

      That's a strange choice for a social comparison.. lol I see what you were going for, but Derek is more of a Ron Jeremy of automotive content creators... lol

  • @jasonstruhl
    @jasonstruhl Před rokem +289

    I know you get a litany of comments (deservedly so) but wanted to effusively thank you and your family for all of your incredibly hard work and commitment in creating this content. Your videos have inspired me to work on my own rigs and have eclipsed even old top gear episodes as my favorite thing to watch. A very happy new year to you, Jessica, and the kids. You’re an incredible inspiration and show that you can work with extreme dedication while still putting family first. To a wonderful new year for you and yours.

    • @markdoyle6414
      @markdoyle6414 Před rokem +5

      I totally agree with the sentiment in your comment. VCG is about 3 million time better than Top Gear. While watching the like of VCG and Legitstreetcars one gets no sense of arrogance and privilege unlike the previous three presenters of Top Gear. Derek, Alex Palmeri, Tony Angelo etc are all clearly passionate about cars and always appear to appreciate their success that has been achieved through hard work and risk. I'll probably never watch Top Gear again.

    • @bobr2959
      @bobr2959 Před rokem

      @George Nothing reeks like arrogance. It's just repulsive. Being Highminded, Puffed Up, Prideful, are all negative traits. That all leads to a huge fall. No matter what on earth you have it should never move you from a place of being your self , another human like all the rest of us, some who have and some who dont have, this or that. Lets keep humble and lower ourselves back down to reality, no matter what we own. Lets see each other as equals and not offend anyone. Lets even esteem others before our self. Lets Kill SELF if you know what I mean. I'm sure we all have the opportunity to have the Heart of Gold and submit ourselves to God as we act on His word in obedience. Don't let a pocket full of money, success or an expensive street car change you.

    • @Brock_Landers
      @Brock_Landers Před rokem +3

      That was a really nice and true comment. I understand what you're saying as I've always felt the same about Derek, his content, and how he's always inspirational to us all. Happy new year to you and your family as well, from one feller to another. Matter of fact I'm working on my old pile of crap turbocharged Acura TL right now. Mainly due to ADHD, but also because when I'm not at work, I have work to do at home...

    • @patrickmay9034
      @patrickmay9034 Před rokem +4

      @George That's a hell of a big chip on your shoulder there George. Happy New Year ffs.

    • @benruether8294
      @benruether8294 Před rokem +1

      His early videos have lots of solid advice on engine building. I learned alot about rocker arm geometry and setup from him. Great stuff!

  • @DanneyTanner
    @DanneyTanner Před 6 měsíci +3

    Sweet ride. Got to love a Chevelle . I noticed somebody spent a bunch of time customizing that upper alternator bracket to get it to work with that high rise intake manifold😊 this is the time when you should buy a cool mid-mount alternator bracket😊

  • @edhamilton8572
    @edhamilton8572 Před 8 měsíci +3

    I bought a Chevelle SS new in 67 and wish I still had it, this brought back many happy memories Derek. Don’t change a thing on this old beast, just drive it and enjoy it. Thank for all the effort you and your family put into each video big man, I look forward to each and every one of them. If you ever decide to have an open house I for one would pay money just to see you collection.

  • @dubcab6039
    @dubcab6039 Před rokem +55

    I would like to see it run a 1/4 mile pull , just to see how it does . I definitely think a b4 and after pull is key

    • @feelinghealingfrequences7179
      @feelinghealingfrequences7179 Před rokem +5

      yes!
      1/4 as is
      then new rear tires and other basic stuff like a dyno tune
      and do an after 1/4

    • @garyhall8575
      @garyhall8575 Před rokem +4

      Was going to say the same thing but you beat me to it but no problem. Keep it as close to his build as possible and go racing.

    • @mariolavoie9881
      @mariolavoie9881 Před rokem +3

      Same here! Want to see it!

    • @sdolsay
      @sdolsay Před rokem +3

      Same

    • @jaredhempel4871
      @jaredhempel4871 Před rokem +3

      Totaly

  • @ddhartma
    @ddhartma Před rokem +96

    This has to be my favorite episode so far! I am old (70) backyard mechanic myself and love your show. I'm seeing you go through so many things that I am setting here laughing at and saying to myself "been there, done that.

    • @jimquigley7788
      @jimquigley7788 Před rokem

      Keep the engine it came this far what do they say we'll this is what I brought run it

    • @cynthiaklenk6313
      @cynthiaklenk6313 Před rokem +11

      Got a few years on you (+5) - my dad ran a '66 Chevelle back in the 60's (My brother has dad's trophy's) - Derek's love of cars reminds me so much of my dad, dad didn't look like Derek but shared hjs love of cars. (I really miss him) . Dad taught me to wrench, (never said "your a girl go away (although my brothers did - they limited me to stomping the pedal to bleed the brakes :-) ) and I can wrench to this very day (I still have my made in the USA Craftsman tools). Back then everyone ran a stick - I remember I couldn't push the clutch down on dad's drag car!!! I still love and will always love Detroit iron. We HAVE to keep this love for actual cars alive! Don't ever hang up your vice grips and I won't either! God Bless!

    • @GT380man
      @GT380man Před 11 měsíci +4

      @@cynthiaklenk6313So excellent to come across a lady wrencher. Way too thin on the ground. Back in the 70s, we had two lasses who rode their two stroke twins with the same enthusiasm we lads did, and both were “handy” with tools & did their own maintenance. Back then, I didn’t think to ask how that had come about. I’ve two daughters and neither are interested in dads old strokers or a shed full of tools. One tried & we actually laced a rim, then tensioned & trued it well together, but that was a one off. She’s the aptitude to fix stuff, knows how to apply force properly using a screwdriver and spanner or ratchet socket, but simply isn’t that interested. On a more promising note, I’ve now two small grandsons and both can’t wait to get into the workshop every time mom brings them over. I’m working on the possibility that if I hang on long enough for one of them to hit their early teens, we’ll do a simple project together and if he’s interested after that, I’ll specifically Will him all my tools. Otherwise they’ll go in the dumpster after I’m gone, because there is simply nobody who knows which end of a torque wrench is which, or why it might be useful to know. I wish you joy. 😎🙏

  • @aaronjonwanyemcnair8629
    @aaronjonwanyemcnair8629 Před 6 měsíci +1

    Derek you don't realize that even going thru a breakup, being a car guy at heart, and seeing you and your personality in your videos makes things ok brother. You bring more then advice to repairing cars, you being simplicity and genuiness to our hearts

  • @dudebud72
    @dudebud72 Před 7 měsíci +3

    Woke up from a night terror and turned this on. Talking about making me smile. Thanks for all the content this last year for me, your amazing

  • @CountryAndClassics
    @CountryAndClassics Před rokem +37

    That has to be one of the cleanest cars You ever revived! What an awesome colour too! If was mine, I would leave it that colour as is so close to Independence. Sure looked to Me When You had valve covers off, that they are defiantly solid lifters. Must have been a nightmare in the rain without wipers.

  • @crystolslimbracey
    @crystolslimbracey Před rokem +62

    Just wanna say I’ve been watching you for years one of my favorite youtubers. I hope you remain safe in these trips you do. Much love from Michigan.

  • @AndThen42
    @AndThen42 Před 10 měsíci +1

    This make me want to go back to 1987 and buy my ‘75 Cordoba again. . . I was looking for speed!

  • @SinbadCarey
    @SinbadCarey Před rokem +46

    This is classic VGG and almost comes close to my favourite episode where you rescue that massive Cadillac DeVille from a field! I love your style of presenting, and while you seem goofy and aloof, it's pretty obvious you know exactly what you're doing!

  • @440Nichole7.2
    @440Nichole7.2 Před rokem +27

    clean machine , much cleaner than what you normally find lol leave the paint alone she's beautiful the way she is !

  • @gregschwartz4017
    @gregschwartz4017 Před 2 měsíci +1

    "That's what a rocker panel looks like, I guess, on these cars..."
    I lost it. Funniest thing I've heard in ages.

  • @martymcmannis6581
    @martymcmannis6581 Před 9 měsíci +1

    That Chevy sounds delicious
    Great job sir

  • @waltergrimes7573
    @waltergrimes7573 Před rokem +70

    Would love to see you put that on a Dyno nobody takes care of these old rigs anymore they're like dinosaurs keep it the way it is ain't always got to be the fastest but might be the coolest

    • @vettewelder
      @vettewelder Před rokem

      I say, junk that tiny thing and rob Liberty.

    • @jerrywilcox9890
      @jerrywilcox9890 Před rokem

      It won't stay the same lol.

    • @tmikkelsen8066
      @tmikkelsen8066 Před rokem +1

      I am loving seeing all the older cars back on the roads even if the do need some work. I cant stand newer cars. Too much going on. Lol.

    • @FrankBullitt390
      @FrankBullitt390 Před rokem +1

      I bet 450hp at the flywheel, or did when it was new. Car probably ran 11's. Put a 200 shot on it and reliably put it in the 10's as it sits with some updates.

    • @TylerDuysen
      @TylerDuysen Před rokem +1

      @@FrankBullitt390 definitely never ran 11s independence is capabale of 9s but runs 10s and has over 1k hp and because of rust like 1/3 less weight there is zero chance this car ever touched 11s in the 1/4 maybe 13s like 13.5 450 at the crank is 370ish whp with an auto and 390/400hp with a manual thats not enough to go 11s in a car that weighs 3500lbs

  • @johngault7329
    @johngault7329 Před rokem +18

    It would be nice to see it run with the 80's setup. Keep the 400, clean her up, and ride the time capsule down the track/road.
    Another great episode
    👍

  • @Oz1111
    @Oz1111 Před 3 měsíci

    it is crazy how i can sit and watch hours and hours of this stuff. this guy is brilliant. very entertaining.

  • @Xjeepguy
    @Xjeepguy Před 7 měsíci +2

    I really want to see more of this rig.

  • @cruiser3042
    @cruiser3042 Před rokem +9

    Now...that was quite a show you put on this episode ! After having over 100 different cars in the last 35 years I felt like I was back in 1988 traveling 500 miles across Texas just to get a burger and a kiss from the girl I was about to marry. Thank you Derek for the stroll down memory lane.

  • @kerzwhile
    @kerzwhile Před rokem +46

    Woah... quite possibly the fastest 2 hrs I've ever experienced in my life!! What GREAT content! Happy New Year Derrick, Family and Fans! 🙂

  • @ginodimarco1153
    @ginodimarco1153 Před 10 měsíci +1

    This car was waiting for you. Please keep it and make it the snarling beast it was always intended to be. Let it be the revived Tyrannosaurus brought back to eat the apex predators of today. After all the hopeless wrecks you've brought back to life, you deserve a fantastic drag car to make it all more special. Please keep going, we'll keep cheering you on.

  • @josephkelly4893
    @josephkelly4893 Před 7 měsíci +1

    What a beautiful rig, great to see it back on the blacktop

  • @michaeldavison430
    @michaeldavison430 Před rokem +27

    One of the special things with these older cars is the ability of a learned person to keep them going with basic repairs (in the parking lots of O'Reilly's). Makes many of us remember how we acquired these skills as well usually in our youth. VGG, please keep making content as it is thoroughly enjoyed!

    • @Coffee_Scroll
      @Coffee_Scroll Před rokem +2

      I learned all about distributors in a loading zone during peak hour one of the first times I drove in the “big city”. I believe they call it character building.

    • @harriettanthony7352
      @harriettanthony7352 Před rokem

      "Special Things"? really, more like necessary things, to keep these forever breaking, leaking, or tc. machines working. I had DEACADES of fixing I.C.E. cars-no more I am so done with all of it. I got an Electric Car and will NEVER look back in fondness to fixing a gas powered car.

    • @michaeldavison430
      @michaeldavison430 Před rokem +1

      @Harriett Anthony we all have different perspectives, some of us enjoy these things and the memories they provide. Enjoy your electric car.

    • @bobr2959
      @bobr2959 Před rokem +1

      Good comment!

  • @Handwrench83
    @Handwrench83 Před rokem +5

    Name this car JUSTICE. Justice and Independence - John Mellencamp. It's the perfect name for this car

  • @jabbow6
    @jabbow6 Před 7 měsíci +1

    Rough trip bro but through adversity great men are born keep on Truckin

  • @sandspar
    @sandspar Před rokem

    Nice video. Trying to tell some kid today that in the 70's, early 80's we didn't have speed shops and the like so we had to make U joints that would stay in our '69 bilt Chevelles cause we couldn't keep driveshafts in 'em, then wound up breaking rear ends. He just looked at like I was from Mars, so I'll just watch you and be happy, Lock 'em!

  • @donaldstenico5266
    @donaldstenico5266 Před rokem +15

    First of all, a sincere thank you to you and your family for what you do. Brings back a lot of memories to us older fellas. That vehicle is a cool time capsule. Keep it pretty much the way it is.

  • @desertheat4659
    @desertheat4659 Před rokem +26

    Always enjoy your adventures. Never ceases to amaze me how you can rebuild an engine in the parking lot of a parts store.

  • @grantc8747
    @grantc8747 Před rokem

    Hot damn! She brought the thunder without even being told!

  • @Thegonagle
    @Thegonagle Před rokem

    Glad to see you rescued this before that garage burns down from the electrical "work" hanging from that panel.

  • @justinnatasmai4503
    @justinnatasmai4503 Před rokem +20

    I say keep as much of it as it is. It's a 80s time capsule, totally rad car! Thanks for taking us on this adventure Derek, your awesome! I wish you and your family a happy New years, God Bless!

  • @elp4740
    @elp4740 Před rokem +8

    Thanks Derek for taking me along on another revival adventure. It's a cool, well built rig, keep the 400 SB, adjust the interior to fit ya, and after getting it dialed in, put it on the dyno to see what the old timer had put into it.

  • @DCwithwings
    @DCwithwings Před 5 měsíci +1

    VGG is pretty much all I watch, just so entertaining! Definitely like the candy blue on everything, you definitely didn’t ruin it. I love the whole restoMod treatment, would like to have a ‘69 Chevelle that looks like an original daily driver but with all new mechanicals and electronics. Keep it up Bud, time for VGG and a cold snack 🍺

  • @drytoast1755
    @drytoast1755 Před 3 měsíci +1

    seen this a year ago but found myself watching the whole thing again in the middle of the night lol

  • @censored1360
    @censored1360 Před rokem +3

    ripping a 1/4 mile in that rig with the 4w drum brakes must have been an awesome adventure. White Knuckle special for sure

    • @kennywhiddon1497
      @kennywhiddon1497 Před rokem

      @Censored My 67 Camaro drag car ran 10.00 @132 mph with a small block. It had 4 wheel drum brakes and it was a handful to in the shutdown area of some tracks.

  • @DaveHiggoHiggins
    @DaveHiggoHiggins Před rokem +16

    Wow, what an absolute time capsule. Looks like it was built REALLY well. I'd love to see you leave it as is, colour wise and wheel wise, as it's a brilliant throwback. Fix the things that need immediate attention to make it safe, (and make you fit better, as a 6'4 sasquatch myself, it's paramount) and take it down the strip, maybe even tickle it with some giggle gas and run a 9? Anyway you go, it will be a fantastic car to enjoy

  • @antonleimbach648
    @antonleimbach648 Před 11 měsíci

    I had a Chevelle the same year as yours. I can’t remember how many times my rear break light covers got stolen. I love your videos and hope you enjoy your new car. Mine was painted charcoal grey with white racing stripes.

  • @kaylanorris7865
    @kaylanorris7865 Před 7 měsíci +1

    It would be awesome to see it finished. I would totally drive this! I hope whomever ends up with it treats it very well.

  • @Risko3441
    @Risko3441 Před rokem +6

    I loved every second of this! Solid Chevelle Derek! I’d just leave her as she sits. It’s a cool time capsule

  • @kevfaherty123
    @kevfaherty123 Před rokem +86

    Makes a guy pretty snazzed in the emotional department with all the content!

  • @burleism5158
    @burleism5158 Před 5 měsíci

    Everyone has a bucket list and I have crossed afew off mine ,but the thing that is numero uno for me is to see just how F-in awesome it feels to go pick up a killer old piece of muscle and to experience the feelings driving that baby home. It must be right up there with true love and kids....

  • @rverro8478
    @rverro8478 Před rokem +1

    I never been a Chevelle fan BUT, a 400 small bloc is my favorite Chevrolet engine.

  • @tmtheasphaltgambler3709
    @tmtheasphaltgambler3709 Před rokem +44

    Hey man, wanted to say to you that you are hands-down: the Bob Ross of mechanics! Your smooth / relaxed tone in speaking, very detailed scenarios to the viewers are the best! Love the dry sense of humor, I really enjoy this channel, especially lately. Keep up the great videos. Also, I'd like to see disassembly / CSI of the small block in the Chevelle, then install a good set of AFR cylinder heads on it. Dyno like it is, then again after some upgrades

  • @liamfoley4452
    @liamfoley4452 Před rokem +13

    I’d love to see you keep the paint, wheels, and engine in this car. A radiator, rear gear, trans with overdrive, and go through the existing 400 and it’d be a sweet street/strip car that’s got a great story and all the nostalgia. Absolutely love the way it sounds too it’s got such a good note.

    • @esqueue
      @esqueue Před rokem

      Probably suspension and brakes too. But I fully agree with everything you said.

    • @liamfoley4452
      @liamfoley4452 Před rokem

      @@esqueue it could be stretched out for the sake of budget. Do a little here and a little there. Either way it’s a beautiful car. Can’t wait to see more of it

  • @robertgoodwinr6523
    @robertgoodwinr6523 Před 11 měsíci

    Love this. Thanks for the upload. My dad had the same chevelle/color bought new back in 71 but with a 396. 4 speed rockcrusher. Car was in the family until 2000 when i sold it. I still regret doing that and dream about the car often. Miss it. Good days. Thanks. Peace from Boston.

  • @AMH5150AMH
    @AMH5150AMH Před 7 měsíci

    I owned a ‘71 chevelle when I was in high school. Same color. I miss her.😢

  • @robertsieber8374
    @robertsieber8374 Před rokem +51

    Happy New Year Derek and family! If the Chevelle was mine I think I'd let it alone looks wise. Its how she is. Fix what's wrong, make it run right, maybe swap out the front drums to disc's and make it fit you. Add gauges and blinkers for street duty.

    • @ViceGripGarage
      @ViceGripGarage  Před rokem +4

      Happy new year

    • @andye7389
      @andye7389 Před rokem +4

      I agree I think it’s pretty dam cool the way it is.

    • @jefffoster3557
      @jefffoster3557 Před rokem +2

      Agreed. Disc brakes on front, 4 11s in rear and leave it a street bruiser. That engine has some guts!

    • @bobr2959
      @bobr2959 Před rokem +3

      How about a defroster and wiper blades too?!

    • @jefffoster3557
      @jefffoster3557 Před rokem

      @@bobr2959 actually just defroster.....rain x or waxing windshield works fine. I think he was fighting the fogging inside more than anything.

  • @sheancorvari2172
    @sheancorvari2172 Před rokem +28

    Would love to see a follow up where you get it good enough to run some times and see if it will just a can or not. Thanks again for everything you do!

  • @leegoldeneagle9003
    @leegoldeneagle9003 Před 9 měsíci

    Thanks for your time u all loved it very much so much fun thanks 🙏👍👍👍👍👍😊

  • @rodricbeauregard1053
    @rodricbeauregard1053 Před 10 měsíci +1

    I like when he says, GREAT GRAND❤😂

  • @BAMAMACLOWD
    @BAMAMACLOWD Před rokem +10

    One of the best car movies out there, very entertaining

  • @irvingehman6459
    @irvingehman6459 Před rokem +5

    I have not seen Derrick smile so big in a long time!

  • @gobills7163
    @gobills7163 Před 3 měsíci

    There’s nobody or channel better than VGG. Derek is now a staple in our home.

  • @21299
    @21299 Před měsícem

    Thanks for the ride along, I really miss my 72 Chevelle. The guy I bought it from was in the Air Force and he turned it from a street car to a drag car. All of the accessory motors, A.C, etc are removed when possible for weight reduction. Mine didn't even have a wiring harness. I restored it to factory condition which took me about seven years.

  • @travisfowler8345
    @travisfowler8345 Před rokem +6

    Derek I just wanna say I'm sure during many of these revivals you are absolutely miserable on the inside... But you push on for our entertainment... Thank you for your sacrifices... I appreciate and love you, your family, and everything you do! And I'm sure I speak for many people when I say that!

  • @shanedarrell2250
    @shanedarrell2250 Před rokem +20

    Call Her Lady Liberty and keep the small block 400 its a great engine. Love watching your revival videos.

    • @smileyh8353
      @smileyh8353 Před rokem +6

      Lady Liberty, I like that

    • @mikewhite3123
      @mikewhite3123 Před rokem

      The small block 400 is the best, too many have been ruined by boring them and then running hot though..

  • @jameslamark3447
    @jameslamark3447 Před 7 měsíci +1

    He did a great job

  • @jimw1274
    @jimw1274 Před 6 měsíci

    Man, it's heartwarming to watch such talent at work.

  • @fyreandearth
    @fyreandearth Před rokem +3

    I'm smiling ear to ear watching Derek so giddy with excitement, checking out his new rig.

  • @Bigferg1983
    @Bigferg1983 Před rokem +33

    I miss these. That was one of the best episodes in ages. Not that I don't like a guys other stuff but I prefer these. I say let her shine the way she is maybe fix the floor and do a forensic brake down on the engine and just fix it not "build it " I haven't seen you do an engine repair

    • @fordlvrx2
      @fordlvrx2 Před rokem

      He did the GTO just fix the motor and not build it...for a war veteran