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

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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[@ViceGripGarage]

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]

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]

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

[@mcintyretyler89]

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

[@timothymetzler7715]

It's sad but usually scammers come from wealthy countries

[@williamrandall6472]

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]

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

[@mrb.5610]

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

[@bodarville2510]

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

[@gerhardbaumann7233]

@@bodarville2510 You are so right.

[@matthewmoore8125]

I absolutely agree. I love these videos!

[@keitharnett2647]

Great revival, who needs TV

[@ginodimarco1153]

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]

Bring the thunder! *Cap explodes*

[@loganbaum1072]

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]

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]

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

[@benjaminbills1998]

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]

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]

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

[@cannon3267]

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]

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

[@juniorskidmore7602]

Yep! What they said 👆

[@stevet647]

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.

[@ryanroberts3742]

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]

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]

14.7 all day baby!

[@garrittpwl]

it'll be lucky to run a low 13

[@TrollingHistory]

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]

@@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.

[@refuztosay9454]

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

[@yourdrmckuku]

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

[@earnestbunbury2103]

Every carpenter 'cept Jesus...

[@moparman1962]

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]

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]

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

[@brucerae5522]

What they said

[@warrenmichael918]

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]

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

[@keithpowers2421]

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

[@ViceGripGarage]

Love that!

[@TheSecretOfNem]

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.

[@philtwowheels]

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.

[@konfyoused]

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!

[@Wooley689]

Ditto.

[@johnlachapelle9089]

I agree

[@johnlachapelle9089]

Derek, I was on the phone with Mike tonight from Wildfire .....I'm getting myself a lift !!

[@josephschaekel5293]

2nd that

[@johnlachapelle9089]

Also really enjoyed the show tonight

[@michigandogman3060]

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]

ok

[@Ghettochappy]

Humble brag

[@brandonhewitt2386]

@@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]

Good job!

[@michigandogman3060]

@@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 😂

[@nickp701]

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.

[@HansonBrothershand]

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

[@hwi7114]

Not a single other channel on KZbin 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]

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.💯🤙🥃😶✌️🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@justbugme1978]

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]

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

[@paulkramer9666]

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!

[@jondekerguelen]

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!

[@ddhartma]

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]

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

[@cynthiaklenk6313]

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]

@@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. 😎🙏

[@freedomsound4469]

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.

[@ViceGripGarage]

Much appreciated!

[@Giitzerland]

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!

[@quest4adventure495]

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.

[@proracer382d]

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

[@my95buick]

Seems like a worthy successor to independence…

[@bobr2959]

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

[@iwantmyvanback]

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]

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

[@iwantmyvanback]

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

[@sherry73]

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

[@sherry73]

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

[@iwantmyvanback]

@@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.

[@judybashaw7377]

Derek's the man, it's hand gestures for me. Talented man with balls to drive this stuff so far!

[@edhamilton8572]

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.

[@donadrian2688]

😅

[@briansawdo6245]

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.

[@markkeller1778]

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

[@Yippa391]

I'll second this

[@Hurst_Hemi]

I'll third it

[@ViceGripGarage]

Happy holidays!

[@garybonness5056]

@@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.

[@aaronjonwanyemcnair8629]

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

[@joshholden8561]

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

[@michaeldavison430]

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]

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]

"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]

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

[@bobr2959]

Good comment!

[@lindanelson8400]

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]

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

[@moneybag7559]

@@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]

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]

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

[@kevinshanley1174]

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

[@jefferyvetrono6259]

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!!!

[@NotHarry-er3wg]

I had a friend years ago that bought a similar drag car. The guy he bought it off used it as a daily driver. High compression, high lift cam etc. The engine was a constant issue failing plugs. burning wires. frosting the carb. etc., and the transmission kept failing as well.. My pal said the reason it failed was because it was a purpose built drag tranny and geared engine. it wasn't meant to go 20,000 miles or cruise chicks. it was designed to cook tires and go fast for a short amount of time without idling in traffic. a wide open high load beast meant to ruin its competitions 1/4 mile times/day. or just have fun. Yea run high zinc oil cuz u probably have a solid lifter set up. This was a fun ride Mr. Garage! Thank you for putting this on the lottery. I'm happy I won this vehiculator!!!!!!!!! When are u delivering it to me in Massachusetts?? yes, sure I'm just heavy in all the jocularity departmentalism's. Sorry... nope. More performances please. Edit oh... I would recommend trashing that cam cover. i can tell its cadywompusated and it will never seal the dinosaur syrup. Oops wrong channel. Sorry .

[@derekreams2453]

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]

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

[@Ian-gd3kr]

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?

[@CountryAndClassics]

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.

[@gwatkins5766]

Hey man. Don't touch that paint. It looks so good with that blue. U should put a set of new air shocks on the back, pull the top off to see what's in it and check the push rods for warpage and wear. See what lift that cam has. Maybe check the keepers for wear. If solid lifters adjust the gaps properly. U know all this cause ur a mechanic. Change all the fluids u can. Change rear end oil. Redo interior after u fix water leaks and most important. Keep it for yourself and NEVER sell it. So happy for u man. 😊

[@jabbow6]

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

[@caddyguy5503]

Definitely one of my favorite episodes. I love how she started right up. Keep the way she is, dont change anything on her, she is perfect.

[@donaldstenico5266]

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.

[@DanneyTanner]

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😊

[@GodSaveTheUnitedStates]

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!

[@crystolslimbracey]

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.

[@ViceGripGarage]

Thank you! Will do!

[@trillrifaxegrindor4411]

safety 3rd

[@laurafoisey4121]

@@ViceGripGarage have you seen the videos in Ohio im sepprised it could drive

[@andrewwilson7688]

@@ViceGripGarage lady liberty would be a amazing name for that sweet ride

[@elp4740]

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.

[@ElmoIsBold]

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

[@dudebud72]

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

[@jasonstruhl]

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]

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]

@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]

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]

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

[@benruether8294]

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

[@fiaschifabrications4852]

Definitely made John’s day with that burnout😂😂

[@21jojijo]

Amen! I could see him smilin'.

[@sashley616]

Grew up riding in the back seat of a '71 Chevelle with my bro and sister. This one is a beauty.

[@darr2970]

Back in my day when I started driving I had a 69 Chevelle. I liked working on it cause there was so much room in the engine I used to sit in there to work on it just like your son did. My grandpa taught me a lot about repairing cars. I really enjoy your videos.

[@Nichole-440HP]

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

[@T-HandyMill711]

This is pure entertainment. It's no surprise you landed a TV show I love watching what you do and the way you do it. You truly bring us with you. I feel like I can smell the old gas and bird seed in the old garage. Love it 👌

[@pvanhorn12]

Derek, you are the fastest mechanic I have ever seen!!! If I were that fast when I was wrenchin for a living I would be a rich man today. Boy what a nice piece you picked up there, I have been following its maturity through the last year or so and Moses Sandals is it awesome now!!!

[@Missouryman]

Thank God for videos like this man. You know that lock that car looked so clean. He still had to stop like 5000 times just to get it to run for 12 hours. It's good to know on your buying. Something like that that you pretty much can't count on it to take you. Nowhere for real

[@justinnatasmai4503]

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!

[@benleach8845]

Can’t say enough how much I truly enjoy VGG and Derek’s hard work to always put together outstanding pieces of art (in my mind that is)! If Derek isn’t still doing this in 25 years with his boys by his side then we have failed him. Thank you Derek! Every time I get a notification that VGG has uploaded a new video I get a little twinkle in my underpants (in a professional manner of course).

[@jackvia9282]

Call it the Patriot

[@chrisbeernaert3711]

Wild Wild horses >>>>> wild wild horses we'll ride them one day

[@David-uu1oj]

Old School needs to stay close to it's roots.

[@canadianhaywire5200]

When I seen the color of that car, it reminded me of one of my old Camaro's from the 90's . Thanks to your show my wife and I have started our own channel and are starting to fix up and restore old vehicles. Presently we are restoring an 81 J J20 I helped my dad restore in high school and then he sold it and my wife found it 30 years later in a horse field parked to rust away.

[@markwagoner3599]

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.

[@ViceGripGarage]

Thank you

[@SinbadCarey]

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!

[@dubcab6039]

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]

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

[@garyhall8575]

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]

Same here! Want to see it!

[@sdolsay]

Same

[@jaredhempel4871]

Totaly

[@ElmoIsBold]

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.

[@ginodimarco1153]

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.

[@travisfowler8345]

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!

[@ruldadsly]

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

[@JustSayin042]

Way better than names I chose. Maybe Derekaration.

[@uzivatel56]

That or Mayflower

[@jacknimble1]

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.

[@jeremyp7013]

Dude..a guy absolutely loves this car and I do accept your offer to donate this beautiful machine to me free of charge. Thanx for your total cooperation

[@croweknowsmowers1877]

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

[@croweknowsmowers1877]

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

[@mrhipbone]

Keep it close to how you found it as a homage to the homebuilt grassroots drag racers that keep local tracks alive. Give the 400 a birthday with a teardown to learn what the old timer's tricks were, some fresh gaskets and put it back to work. Personally I'd do a brake update on the fronts at least, and the fuel system, bring the roll cage up to spec so that sasquatch can fit behind the wheel and leave the rest be. As always another great episode, thank you Derek and your whole family for the effort you put into the channel for our entertainment. Just make sure you do take some time to enjoy the fruits of your success, bring on a great 2023!

[@tinyrodent2821]

As an early 20's Brit, I've never seen your content before. Nor do I have much knowledge or the taste for these 70's - 80's American muscle cars. But your persona, humour, and editing kept me hooked from the start and I ended up watching all 2 hours.

[@kenbaustin4533]

Hats off to the production value that are imparted into these videos. Keep in mind that all of this shooting is done by one guy who is busy trying to get a car to run..... and be funny. Love the music added to the sequences.

[@gregschwartz4017]

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

[@rizzo3689]

She's a beaut clark! And seeing you go through everything in an old shop is makes it even better. Reminds me of nights holding that old style light for my grandpa in his garage while he taught me about jerry rigs. I used to think there was a guy named jerry that did that kind of thing to his car and wondered how he got down the road. Thanks for the memories!

[@blainehutcherson7251]

SHITTERS FULL.

[@MonzaRacer]

Actually it's called JURY RIGGING

[@WhiskeyTuber]

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]

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

[@erikbergstrom258]

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

[@Hobodeluxe960]

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

[@stevemowat4294]

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

[@manchu9inf]

Agreed, call it Liberty.

[@chrisl3634]

Dear Derek. I got into your shows via Discovery Channels Roadworthy Rescues. I rarely ever watch anything KZbin wise for an hour or more (That would be insane / drive me insane).... I do here at VGG though! That says it all. As with all other VGG lovers... Thank You. It's more than the cars and I love that. Many thanks - Chris

[@21299]

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.

[@kerzwhile]

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

[@johngault7329]

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 👍

[@Ecosse57]

exactly!

[@richardstamper5630]

Lot's of people have tried to copy Derek's format, some have even tried to copy his phrases but they are not Derek. He owns the space and long may it continue.

[@michaelmaletz2548]

There are several fellers doing this now, but you are still the best. The way you explore the rig, appreciate the history, love of country and family. Good stuff.

[@cruiser3042]

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.

[@Nokšė0]

80s street drag builds are my fav, thats my dream to build one

[@Oz1111]

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

[@wharpoley]

This car instantly threw me back to 1987-1990, when i really got into cars as a kid. Those wheels, that stance, everything.

[@FalingDutchman]

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

[@shospulecolupis9718]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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

[@bradleyboyd4282]

Watching this for the second time. After seeing this car in person, I’ll have to say: it’s absolutely my favorite VGG car.

[@kaylanorris7865]

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

[@tmtheasphaltgambler3709]

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

[@tmtheasphaltgambler3709]

You go son!

[@liamfoley4452]

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]

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

[@liamfoley4452]

@@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

[@gobills7163]

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

[@rverro8478]

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

[@jager454gaming]

I'm at the point where he first starts it and... Wow, that's amazing how well it started! I can't believe how well that motor runs! She's definitely a runner! Love your work Derek! You're an inspiration to mechanics both young and old, never quit doing your thing.

[@cynthiaklenk6313]

That's Detroit iron!!! 😀

[@wannabeutuber1]

@@cynthiaklenk6313🎉

[@waltergrimes7573]

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

[@DACoutBack]

I say, junk that tiny thing and rob Liberty.

[@jerrywilcox9890]

It won't stay the same lol.

[@tmikkelsen8066]

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]

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]

@@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

[@earlpitsch2149]

Derek you could easily be one of the most successful stand up comedians ever as well!

[@bulletproofpepper2]

Thanks for sharing. I watched you crawl around on your garage dragging your junkyard engine across the floor. I have to reframe from speaking Darrick all the time. A coworker asked where did you get that from so I showed him, he’s hooked, now he won’t stop asking me questions, thanks a lot. Everyone thinks it would be great to own a race car until you drive one.

[@censored1360]

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]

@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.

[@PeterHinkle]

Derek you are truly a gem. You are also a natural physical comedian. You are the only KZbin channel that I actually look forward to watching each week. Ask me when anyone else’s videos come out and I don’t have a clue but when VGG does a premier, for an hour, everything in my life takes a back seat! Thank you to the entire Bieri family for simply being yourselves.

[@DCwithwings]

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 🍺

[@robertshemory3541]

Wow that was so awesome. Thanks again to all who participated in making the v8 summer showdown. Thanks to Laura for filling in for Myles. Add a calendar for me. Thanks again Scott and Dean for the great news. ❤👍✌️😎 cheers to Jonathan W.

[@BuddyTobyTV]

Since I’m fairly early to the Bleep Bloops, I just want to say how awesome it is you keep making content for KZbin even after Roadworthy. They’re so much more fun to watch. A guy thinks Roadworthy needs a little less polishing and more time spent with each vehicle. Like either two part episodes or 2-hour episodes.

[@johndoesen1718]

I don't think any car channel do that, on the contrary, they take time away from the build/repairs to polish up the show and make it "clean and slick" - that's what happened to Wheeler Dealers, when Motor Trend Channel (former Velocity) took over - they "slimmed" the repair and technical parts down, and filled the show with more irrelevant "noise" and that made Edd China to leave.

[@Risko3441]

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