Hello, my dad recently acquired a '68 Chevelle SS 396. It is a reall SS and has the numbers matching 396/325 hp engine maybe the stock heads as well. Also stock interior. My question is how much can be done to this car that won't hurt the value of a true numbers matching car? I mean in terms of modifying the engine, suspension and interior. My dad would like to make the engine a little stronger and possibly add bigger chrome wheels. Thanks for the help.

Hello and welcome to the site.. This is a great place and even better people. No matter what year you have, I feel you should do what you want.. As having a true numbers matching car though, I would personally make my modifications in such a matter that it could be returned to stock some day..

I don’t know how far you want to take it, but based on my past build experience it will be worth more if left in an original state. Wheels and motor mods are not a big deal and can modify it tastefully if you want to keep the originality of the car. If you want to go further than that then DO IT.. It is your personal preference and a hobby; in reality you are doing it for yourself not someone else.

Take in mind 68’s are a “one year” wonders and this the best place to be to learn all about it. How about some more details and pictures of the car… Nice to have another Florida 68 in the mix, I am a few hours South of you..

Welcome again!

Dave

Thanks for the advice. I will let him know and see what he decides to do. As for the pics, I did manage to get some loaded onto photobucket. Here they are:

http://s408.photobucket.com/albums/pp166/71chevelle90/

We just picked up this '68 at the Turkey Run. Awesome deal for a #'s matching true SS.

Welcome aboard ...
I just finished a Grecian Green 68 and with the help of some good folks from this site ..the job was alot easier ..
I did choose to keep mine pretty close to original ,but did change to ralley wheels and did the roller cam ,lifter setup to the engine ,,..
Mine has a window sticker so I knew exactly what it came with ,,

Glad to see you and your dad sharing a great hobby ..GOOD LUCK ...:beers:

Wellcome,and a great looking car. Some other stuff is changing out the intake and carb. Just keep the original to put back some other time. I would lose the steering wheel cover. It holds moisture inside and causes the plastic to start to rot and crack. 68's are the best.

Thanks for the suggestions guys. My dad has since taken the motor out and is having it cleaned and fixed up a little. It was in alright condition except for some scaring on the crankshaft. He will get it bored and additional .030 over from the current .010 over and then also get some new headers and exhaust pipes. It should be a pretty nice motor once it is completed. Can't wait to get mine up to par with his though! Thanks again for the help!

Hey, nice ride! Doesn't look like it needs much of anything but to be driven. The roller tach is a very nice and highly desired option!

cam and headers on the 396 should make more than enough power to dust your Fathers small block. ;)