A front-disc-brake conversion from Scarebird Classic Brakes provides a definite step up from the factory-issue drums. The conversion includes a dual-reservoir master cylinder and an 8-inch power brake booster mounted on the frame under the driver's side of the bench seat. This system uses the factory brake pedal, for that stock look, but it has modern safety and stopping power.
Out back, the rearend is suspended with stock-style leaf springs, augmented with traction bars, the brand's identity long-since lost in time. The factory-style drum brakes are still in service.
For the wheel-tire combination, there really was only one choice to make for an authentic look: the tried-and-true Cragar Super Sports. They measure 15x6 inches in front and 15x8 inches out back, and they mount a pair of 215/75R15 Cooper Trendsetters up front and 255/70R15 BFGoodrich Radial T/As in the rear. The combination of rolling stock and stance gives the wagon that Junior Stocker look that Brian always wanted.
Conclusion
Looking through the accompanying photos, one can plainly see that Brian's goals have been artfully met. The combination of workmanship, attention to detail, and an eye to the past have come together in a car that is truly unique, and at the same time evokes such a nostalgic feeling that you just want to roll a pack of Luckys in the sleeve of your T-shirt and head off to the speed shop. This is a wagon that gets it right. It's not Pro Street, it's not Pro Touring-it's just what it is supposed to be, and makes nary an excuse for it. "It feels real docile until I open up the outer carbs, then the car just leaps," Brian reports. "It has lots of torque. Regarding handling, it ain't built to take corners." Damn straight...
The bumpers, grille, and other...
The bumpers, grille, and other brightwork were sent to Librandi's Metal Plating in Middletown, Pennsylvania, to return them to their original luster.
The rear cargo area retains...
The rear cargo area retains its original look, with bright metal strips and a fold-down rear seat.
One thing that Brian has always been curious about was the Safari's history. "When my brother purchased the wagon, it appeared to have been built for drag racing, but it was street legal," he explained. "With 4.56:1 gears and a four-speed, it was most likely drag raced somewhere in southern Pennsylvania or northern Maryland. I would love to find some history on the car. I have spoken to the previous owner, who was not much help. He didn't build the car; He told me he only owned it for a year and hardly drove it. He could not tell me the name of the person from whom he bought it, but remembered that he was from Waynesboro, Pennsylvania. I have spoken with numerous people who were active in drag racing in the area in the '60s and '70s, but none of them remember the car. It would be great if someone seeing this article recognizes the car and can provide me with some background prior to 1978."
Even though it hasn't been shown much, Brian's Safari has managed to find some admirers. It was voted Best of Show at the 2008 Pontiac Fall Nationals. Look for it at the 2010 Pontiac-Oakland Club International Convention in Charleston, West Virginia. In addition to being a member of POCI, Brian is also active with the Central Pennsylvania Street Machines. It will be shown with his '67 Firebird 400 convertible.
When asked what this particular Pontiac has cost him, Brian replied with what has to be the quintessential response: "Six years, two restoration shops, one lawsuit, many headaches, and way too much money."
Somewhere, big brother Mitch is chuckling and very proud at the end result of Brian's efforts.