Though not an original 326...
Though not an original 326 H.O. Pontiac, this LeMans now has one coded correctly for '66.
Rebuilt with a hotter 288/302-degree...
Rebuilt with a hotter 288/302-degree cam and a three-angle valve job, this .030-over four-barrel 326-H.O. probably puts out a few more ponies than its factory rating of 285 hp.
After performing countless...
After performing countless hours of bodywork, Jimmy applied PPG DP 402 Epoxy primer, block-sanded the body forever, and then sprayed approximately 10 coats of PPG Duracryl Acrylic lacquer in Cameo Ivory, wet-sanding with 1,200-2,000 grit paper between each one. A four-door LeMans gave up this tailpanel applique 25 years ago, Jim tells HPP, and the eyebrow moldings are reproductions.
A factory Carter AFB carb and cast-iron intake disperse the mixture to the intake ports. Delco's points distributor and a stock coil send juice to the Autolite plugs through reproduction wires. Once combustion occurs at a compression ratio of 10.5:1, fumes are evacuated through log-style manifolds and a stock replacement 2-inch-diameter dual-exhaust system. After completion, the engine was installed along with a '71 LeMans Turbo 350 and a stock converter during July 4th weekend in 2005.
The engine and trans are mounted to a fresh POR-15 coated frame featuring a suspension system rebuilt to mostly stock specifications for a V-8 convertible LeMans, with new springs and bushings all around. A set of Gabriel gas shocks update handling a bit, stock 9.5-inch drum brakes were rebuilt to perform as new, and Rally I wheels with 215/70R14 modern tires comprise the rolling stock.
Speaking of rolling, Jim drives his LeMans about 1,000 miles per year to cruises and car shows with his wife, Karen. "I enjoy the comments that I get wherever I go regarding the unique color combination, which happens to be the original colors for this Pontiac," he relates. On the show front, his LeMans has earned First Place at the GTOAA Eastern Regionals twice so far.
Currently, Jim is working with his son once again on another Pontiac project. This time, however, it's Jimmy's '67 Firebird convertible. Let's hope the F-body is in a little better shape to begin with than this A-body project. Either way, the skills and knowledge gained by this father-and-son team on the '66 will ensure the Firebird becomes a stunner as well.