Body Work with a Fork lift and Winch - Can Independence Chevelle be fixed?

[@rickbaker4571]

She's been a great rig... retirement is WELL deserved!! Long Live Independence!!!!

[@bb5242]

Yeah, that car got a great 2nd life, it's fine. Frames rust out.

[@jimo2627]

By far my favorite rig 👍 rip independence 🇺🇸🗽

[@TheTileGuys]

Retirement in my eyes means it’s gotta be brought back to 100%. And driven normally. As it is now it’s still making memories and lighting the world on fire. If you just park it in the garage it will be forgotten about. If you fix it right you’ll treat it right it’s memory will live on forever. I get it tho. I too don’t have one of them fancy money trees in my backyard so I definitely get it

[@wmars4655]

I'd remove engine and throw it in the yard. Maybe plant some flowers out the top

[@rickbaker4571]

@@wmars4655 then you have no business here. Move along....

[@humclarge]

You should talk to the folks at hot wheels and pitch them on a vice grip garage series of collectibles.The kids,adult kids and serious collectors would tear them up. Independence could be immortalized or maybe it would make some nice adornments for the ceiling of resto barn!

[@adamandvanessawilson2654]

Yes! We attempted to make our own Independence hot wheel for our daughter. And now it’s lost 😢

[@markt9438]

@@adamandvanessawilson2654 Independence will survive !

[@rustymohr6652]

Yes! I LOVE that idea!!!

[@matthewbelcher4411]

Vvc u should do this id buy everyone of them

[@814fishing_youtube]

​44/0@@adamandvanessawilson2654y/f m ml

[@mrfordman9999]

The love and nostalgia for a rusty bucket of good times brings a tear to a guys eyes.

[@LawMan62]

Pulling that bumper totally reminded me of when Christine would repair herself! That worked Great!

[@benjaminserino6611]

I was about to comment that but had to make sure no one else did haha

[@joegiusep]

Had an eye on this car since you first pulled her out of the grave. Could hear it in your voice just how much you cared for the old beast, and the triumph of getting her straight again was a great moment for sure. This car isn't just a symbol of this channel, it is a beacon for over 50 years of american car culture. Thank you for everything that you've done and good luck at the next burnout competition!

[@whygowegabusch120]

Didn't he duct tape the frame for the drive home? Classic.

[@danhiggins7798]

@@whygowegabusch120 yes he did

[@miketrstenjak3048]

He said it made the frame a good as new if I recall correctly!!!😂

[@whygowegabusch120]

On that day, Mr. Derek Bieri became my all time hero and inspiration. I remember thinking, Red Green would be so damn proud of this man. Brought a tear to my eye.

[@whygowegabusch120]

Oughta be Sir Derek Bieri. If that isn't worthy of knighthood, I don't know what is.

[@IanWrigleyNZ]

You and your family should be incredibly proud of what you've built here. Not just the car, or the channel, but the values you represent.

[@greg1268]

well put. Im glad shes staying in the fleet and I hope he continues to make videos of her because that car has a special place in my heart!

[@Adrian2140]

Personally I love that he stays away from politics and just promotes following your passions, being an amazing parent and wholesome to fans / people around him. World needs more people like him.

[@IanWrigleyNZ]

@@Adrian2140 Indeed. We're all far more alike than we are different. It's only the news cycle that profits from discord. Have a great day dude.

[@DNTMEE]

I agree. All I'd like to add is _Don't screw it up!_

[@BrianButler2814]

Thought for a feller, retire her from burn outs, patch her up, and drive her. Take her to special events, and put her on display, show her off! Independence has been a big part of your channel, keep her around as long as you can. Over a million people love that car, your channel, and what you and Independence represents, and I'm one if them! Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family! Thank you for everything you are doing! Brian Butler

[@stonecoldsteve_hogsten]

This is the way

[@davesantos456]

Independence is a monument to American strength and resilience. 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@baileytillman7144]

This channel is better than anything you will find on TV or any over produced car show because of how relatable it is. Most people don't have 100k to drop on a restoration. Much more entertaining to me.

[@johnkramer7161]

You realize he now has a show on tv?

[@baileytillman7144]

@@johnkramer7161 He has a show on Motortrend doing the same thing he has already done. But they overproduced it as predicted. I'll watch it if it's free but I'm not going to buy cable or a Motortrend subscription to watch it when his free content is already better.

[@Tractorsandnonsense]

@@95roadie I've seen them, they are good.... love the little uhaul courier... and still like forward to vgg weekly posts

[@damianjackson9084]

@@johnkramer7161 he earned every second of it

[@YuToob7]

@@baileytillman7144 Yeah, I watched an episode on Motor Trend last night and it's not nearly as entertaining as his KZbin videos. Looks like they toned down his real persona which is disappointing. Glad he's maintaining content on this channel because cable programming big wigs can be very fickle. Don't lose your roots Derek.

[@aslacker]

I honestly never have 'got' the whole burnout comp thing, but watching you fix cars makes me happy . Good luck Derek and Independence

[@1917Enfield]

Agreed

[@dandevere5736]

You and me both son!

[@justinnatasmai4503]

Me three

[@R3TR0R4V3]

Word. About the most dumbest, pointless, destructive event ever conceived and a trend that I wish would just die off already. I've seen more nice vehicles destroyed when things go awry than I care to think about.. Plus no one can seem a damn thing 90% of the time! I just don't get it. 🤷

[@michaelcharette8509]

@@R3TR0R4V3Yeah. Pointless! Right up there with rock crawling. Destroy equipment to achieve nothing.

[@glewcifer]

You can hear the emotion in Derek's voice just talking about this. Astounding journey she's gone on. She's a museum piece for sure with a great story to tell. Long live Independence!!

[@nicolaskuchta1072]

I gotta raise my cold snack to a guy for doing this great work in such a great mood! Meanwhile today I struggled installing led lights on my 2019 Silverado and threw a wrench at the wall...

[@brucehayes7251]

I'm not American,I'm Australian but still see this vehicle as a testament to resilience. Very little of what Derek does would make official types over here smile very much which makes it oh so much better. Build a tribute to the tribute, absolutely phenomenal entertainment value as always,thankyou Vice grip family

[@jamesrebbechi5247]

Agreed, fine & fitting words that could not have been better said. From Ballarat.

[@aaronsauer6628]

im also a aussy sub

[@1Bowtieluvr]

Agreed! Well said!!

[@ectofix8447]

Wonderfully said!

[@GarthR]

Perth here a new one callled tribute would be cool as

[@findthemhandy]

Did you ever think a rusty old Chevelle would have such a huge following when you pulled into the motel parking lot? It has been an amazing experience watching her go through the transformations, events, and repairs. Thank you to you and your family for everything you do for us fans.

[@evanmarrs353]

Picked up its first follower in that parking lot. Whoever was staying in the room in the background checked in on it several times.

[@billbarker1950]

You've said everything I could have. What an amazing car. Watching all the vids was amazing.

[@damianjackson9084]

@@hhjhj393 you completely missed the point

[@bkschieler]

Wow that was powerful watching Derek work on Independence to save what's left. He loves that car but also what it stands for. Brings a tear to a guy's eye. No wait, "just got something in my eye".

[@kellytolliver2390]

A fella got watch gettin stuff in his eyes that what them safety stuff fur lolAnyway

[@ecurbyhprum1043]

Did you see when he went and rescued this thing and drove it home. I thought he was going to die from intoxication

[@kellytolliver2390]

@@ecurbyhprum1043 yep a fella did see it

[@davesantos456]

Nice work on the restoration of the rear body work on the Independence Chevelle. You help make America remember and heal. 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@synthpro]

I still remember the time you got that car and resurrected it in the hotel parking lot. It has been absolutely a blast watching this car go to the places it has gone, (honestly never thought it would survive as long as it has with the condition). This car is absolutely a great tribute for all Americans, seeing it always gives me some hope for future America and appreciation for all those who have fought for this great country. Long live Independence 🇺🇸

[@fernandoarevalo9531]

Can you help me with my 1964 c10 want some turbocharged

[@mikewilhelmson8413]

Independence isnt just a huge part of this channel, it represents the success that you earned. Ive been watching your videos since you had like 20k subs (being a Minnesota boy myself) and I still remember watching the vid when you got her. Time flies, anyhow you're the man Derek.

[@LynxStarAuto]

That wasn't that long ago. He discovered Independence during Covid.

[@j2kinflarc768]

When I walked up to check out Independence last Saturday I was shocked at how good she came back around. I’m so happy that I was there to see her last big burnout. It was nice to meet you and Jessica, just really great people. Thanks again for a few minutes of your time and signing my shirt.

[@benduecker9650]

I’m so glad that Independence is going to be preserved and kept around for as long as possible. I’d say keep the big block for the next burnout rig and maybe rebuild the small block that Independence had originally (if possible and if it’s still around) and use it for events or for cruising from time to time. It is BY FAR my favorite rig that’s ever been on the channel.

[@neill4133]

That’s not just an old car,that’s a piece of history right there! Needs a place on a stand outside the shop! Well done Derek for pulling her back AROUUUUUUUUUUUND 😊

[@glenverduchi5000]

Long live Independence. Thanks Derek for straightening her out. She's worth every bit of rust it has in gold. Please keep her and thanks for all the memories with this car and your channel

[@jeffshootsstuff]

I could hear the emotion in your voice and I admit I teared up a bit. The original Independence video is how I found this remarkable channel and it has come to mean so much to me. Even if this car is never driven again and just kept as a monument to American goodness and VGG's commitment to serve and bless others it would be appropriate. Keep it up, fellers!

[@billbarker1950]

Yep.

[@Daddyrabbit_2]

Yep, me too.

[@_Dave_S]

This car is a VGG treasure, it IS VGG! Independence deserves a retirement. Like you said, you can use her for gentle driving around town and to shows and such, fix her up here and there, and just keep her as a showpiece for the channel. She has served long and well. She should be around for years to come for everyone to see and enjoy.

[@electronicengineer]

Derek you are one heck of a content-producing animal! With everything you have going on in your life, you never skip a beat on us VGG fans. Just Incredible. Thank You so much for YOU!!!

[@maxrensberger9856]

Yep..thanks for sharing Independence..think we've all had fun watching you have fun..fun family n food n cold snacks..thanks

[@jameslynch165]

Independence has served you well, I’m not a trailer queen fan, but I honestly believe she’s earned the right… people will still flock to see her at the shows , since she is a mobile memorial to those lost. 🇺🇸🙏 big love from the UK 🇬🇧❤️

[@Hammerjockeyrepair]

Thats exactly how I feel! Derek did the perfect thing with her and kept patching her up to have her last few hoorahs before retirement. Its time to hang her in the shop somewhere as a monument!

[@thomasdatrain5762]

Man I’m gonna shed a tear on the independence retirement burnout. I know you will to. This car means a lot to your channel and your family. I’ve loved every second of the videos you put out but independence really does have a special place in our hearts! Like always Derek, keep up the awesome work and god bless you and the family! 🇺🇸

[@douglasellmore3783]

My favorite car on the tube so many channels mention independence

[@broncobob36]

There are a handful of car and truck projects you did on Vice Grip Garage that could define the heart and soul of the channel. There’s just something about the Independence Chevelle that not only defines Vice Grip Garage, but transcends it to a greater meaning. It’s like the St. Louis Arch. You remove the Arch from St. Louis and it’s just another city on the Mississippi River. But having the Arch there defines the city. Make the Independence Chevelle a safe roadworthy car and keep it around the shop.

[@olesammygrant]

Thoroughly impressive episode. This is why youtube is an amazing thing. Seems like the entire history of car shows pre youtube is full on restorations bolting on thousands of sponsored components with paint costing more than a guy's daily driver. Seeing guys do their own projects to satisfy their own vision is awesome

[@Jim_M_75]

I'd had a really crap day, bought some cold snacks on the way home from work and was going to sit and sulk in my own self pity. Half way through the video and I feel a million times better, from the heart, thankyou for the uploads Derek. Your videos mean more to some of us than you'll honestly ever know.

[@docairline5016]

Recently did some work on my truck and your video was playing. The only reason it worked was because when I went to start it, I said "bring the thunder". Today, I was checking my oil and I tasted it. Like wtf was I even tasting for hahaha

[@fredreinke4150]

This wounded warrior has above and beyond! You did what few would have done to keep it in action but its limitation are evident. Whatever you choose to do will honor the contributions its made since you introduced it to the world. Thanks so much for the cool content. Can't wait to see what's next.

[@OfficialDrEricShannonParr]

“Wounded Warrior”…. Interesting take on her.

[@shaunolinger964]

I absolutely 100% agree with your take on Independence... Wounded Warrior.... perfect. I'd love to see her in an auto museum or display somewhere. Park her Derek, and let what you've already done be her legacy.

[@helzapoppin9810]

extra episode? Awesome. That is some AMAZING body work you pulled off! Support your approach with Independence 100%. It's important to preserve the old girl. She can still tour around for people to see and celebrate. Every champ retires eventuually. Indy II in the future? Maybe Liberty I

[@tylermcdonald7840]

I think she’s done her fair share of entertainment and you’ve done so much good with it. It’s a good idea to let her rest a bit I think.

[@aowoodworks2408]

I’m so happy you’re retiring this beauty from the burnout box. It always hurts me to see her hurt in there and I worry it’ll get ruined beyond “repair.” I also love how you’ve patched her back up over and again. She’s got the absolute perfect look as is. By far my favorite car on your channel as she’s what brought me in when she was just a wreck in the back of dirt lot.

[@JohnWood302]

I just love how your son walks up and spots the last fix needed on the bumper!! Well trained eyeballs!!

[@daviddaw999]

Over the past year or so I have avidly watched Robby Layton Nation and accrued some great bodywork knowledge, but from now on Derek you will be the source of my bodywork tips. Those miniscule, consistent shut lines that you achieved with a 12,000 lb winch are testament to your skills. Great job!

[@josephyentz870]

I used a telephone pole and a come along a few times...

[@robertsassano4246]

I'm thinking Robby could learn a thing or three from Derek. Haha

[@robertmills2058]

Still the coolest car on earth 🌎,will always be my favorite.ive followed her from the very beginning,this car is what got me to get off my butt and start putting my Camero together,this channel is just the best,long live the independence Chevelle!

[@tootall86]

Alot of us here consider you family (like it or not cousin eddie). You've more than honored this chevelle so anything you do with this in the future will be accepted with arms wide open

[@robertsimmons3336]

So glad you are getting her spruced up again. I am also glad you will still bring her out to events even if she is not in competition. Seeing Independence in person is definitely on my bucket list!

[@petecunnien5368]

We are all very fortunate that independence landed in your lap and you’ve done such an amazing job with her. She will live forever. Thanks to you and I can’t wait to see you the next leg of her life start up.

[@f13killerhocks94]

Do you still have Rocky? If so I’d say rip the guts out of this and make independence 2.0

[@digitalstyx_est.2018]

I agree with the suggestion to build a more solid Chevelle and get it wrapped to pay tribute to Independence. Then be sure that the original independence stays spicy with whatever her new drive train will be and use her for charity rides, etc. You could take Independence on tours or have her brought to shows. She's probably worth hiring an extra driver to tow either her or another rig to events at least maybe for a year or so for fans to get an opportunity to catch her in person. Regardless you really created something amazing with her. It makes me grateful that I caught her initial resurrection episode when it first released.

[@colinbeeson2345]

congratulations on the fabulous winch truck and fork lift body work that was sweet to watch. This was standard procedure back in the day out on the farm, but nowadays there's not so many heroes such as yourself willing to attempt this kind of magic. Thanks .

[@Rick-4552]

I am glad you made the decision to not destroy this car it means a lot to me as a American , this car is special to a lot of us!

[@Han9emA11]

She sure does. I had a 71Chevelle malibu I bought my Senior year in high school that I spent alot of my free time wrenching on & making patch panels for the lower rear quarters. I miss the old girl & watching Independence takes me back.

[@R3TR0R4V3]

Don't hold your breath.. This "last burnout comp" might just be a death sentence for it. Really wish he would've actually, truly retired the car from doing "one last" burnout competition.. It's just one wall tap away from heading to the scrap yard and all that work fixing it back up is for nothing. 🤦🏻

[@I-apologize-in-advance]

God bless you Derek (& Family) and all that you do. Thanks for taking us along on the journey!!

[@retrogaming8647]

Good old Independence. She holds a special place in my heart. Her revival was the second VGG video I ever watched (the burgundy Big 10 spruce-up was the first) back at the very start of the pandemic in April 2020. What a ride.

[@ReallyDumbName]

It has been a heck of a ride watching this car from the rescue through the build and onto the pad. I can honestly say I’m more sentimental about ol’ Independence than I was about most of the girls I ever dated.

[@dtc2044]

best father of the year! oh heck best ever! most of ours yelled at us to hold the light right and we would get a wrench tossed at us because we did it wrong... this guy is on top of it with all the lights and encourages his sons cool project while getting him to help or get his opinion.👌

[@robynbenander8866]

Derek should be a card shark, he walks and talks like he has no idea what he is doing , but don't be fooled he pretty much knows it all. And if he don't you can bet your payday check he can figure it out. And your boys are learning a lifetime of knowledge and the memories are priceless. Thanks Derek for being you.

[@janasunnarborg8525]

We love your vibe. We love your vocab, things like sparkilators, and the way you say chevrolet - pure entertainment for us. Great to see you doing things together with the family. We love watching you get a 20+ year old abandoned vehicle road ready in a day or two and then actually drive it home. Super content. And, your intro is fab!

[@robertmckinnon2832]

shes become an icon and has brought many smiles. I think it's a good idea to preserve her legacy. it hurt seeing her get beat up, I'm glad you are retiring independence.

[@MuscatelTom]

This car holds a special place in my heart. When people i know talk about what the most America car i know is, Independence is the first thing i show them. Watching this car come out of a parking spot and become what it is, has been such a treat. The startup literally gives me chills, and is the only car that has done so. Someone suggested to build an Independence clone and i couldnt agree more. She has made a lot of people happy and deserves to hang out in the shop for a job well done. Seeing the final rip is going to result in a lot of onions being cut

[@samebert4440]

Amen Brother!!! Not ashamed to admit seeing her final hoorah will bring a few tears.... God Bless Independence and the VGG family !!!

[@karinadler2308]

I'm so glad you rescued Independence .It has had a huge impact on so many. There's another chapter or two !

[@teresaharmon4405]

Thank you Derek for all you do!!! Your family is great and gives me hope for America again!!!

[@christopherstokes616]

Un freakin believable !!! Nice Job !

[@BDKennels]

It's the right call Derek. I still tear up every time I see her and remember what she represents. An honorable retirement is what she deserves. Thank you.

[@tylerbryan8617]

Independence is easily in my top 5 of builds/rescues on the channel it’s been a good experience watching and seeing what it’s become honestly kind of bittersweet moment hearing it’s being put to rest but the car definitely deserves it. Thank you for what you do, I appreciate you for not only letting all of us influence this build but the attachment we also have for this car. It’s a huge part of the channel and it’s a huge part of our hearts. There will never be another Independence!

[@adrianryan8586]

Totally agree, after you explained.. It wouldn't be the same car you fell for, if you completely repair the legend

[@johnritcher5751]

4:35 I absolutely love this car and I can tell Derek does too. Sure looked like Christine with those body panels moving. I'm glad its retired and well cared for. No doubt shes a fan favorite!

[@lesabre1972]

You have always led us in the right direction before with your decisions I say keep up the working things you have done to teach us more and respect what you have and know when to draw the line and have fun doing it.

[@adamperry2147]

Love the video, and the resourcefulness! As a licensed KZbin mechanic with the Gravel Driveway Certification, I find myself having to get creative with tools and equipment. Your videos are always funny, and certainly an inspiration! Keep it up!

[@jessekaija7657]

Personally, I'd love to see the '60 el camino be the new VGG burn out car. Not only is the car a great candidate because of the condition, but it would be very different from the other burnout cars. Great content as always. Keep up the great work.

[@thirdpedal4512]

Got a little choked up @13:50 when the pull started. Looked as smooth as filling a balloon. This may be my new favorite episode. You're a helluva guy!

[@douglasmayherjr.5733]

I agree keeping Independence original and keeping everything safe. If you found a solid old Chevelle and wanted to make a Clone, that would be cool too. Nice to see the car has had such a great life, after most people would have scrapped. Really appreciate the video and your channel. I hope you and your family have a great Thanksgiving. Enjoy the time with your family, kids are only young once.

[@TheChristopherpatter]

Blown away by how well the body fixx turned out! You are a genius and inspiration to us driveway mechanics. Looking forward to one more swan song for Independence!

[@jesseshort8]

Congratulations on Roadworthy Rescues Derek. Saw the first episode. Glad you got to do it your way. Best wishes and happy Thanksgiving!

[@julieb4800]

Awesome oldie!! Fun watching the burn out!!

[@joeconway2940]

I’ve watched every video on the Independence. I love this car for many reasons but watching it come back around has been awesome and the reason behind the paint is a big one. Would love to just see it as a cruiser and power tour car. Put the heart in another burnout car and put a different big block Chevy in her naturally aspirated for cruising and occasional burnout! (Just not competitive). Thanks for all you do and the videos. My boys and I enjoy the family friendly entertainment with some really good informational content.

[@dogpotter]

Independence has been a great ambassador. she has brought together folks from all over. she has done her job tremendously. you should be proud, I know you will take care of her weather she keeps the big 1000hp motor or you put just a putt-putt motor for going to town with. she has served you well. she is a star in her own right. thank you for sharing her with us

[@Havasumaker]

Doing a rewatch of this series and this one has a ton of touchy feelings. Proof cars have souls and I am not the only nutcase... long live independence...

[@michaelhubbard4272]

Great job bringing her back around! Independence was the second episode I ever watched. I was amazed you were able to drive her home in the first place. But she has also run 9s and placed in a burnout competition. You’ve really changed my mind about what can be done with an old car.

[@chrismarshjr86]

Love watching this car come along great job saving the old gal it’s been awesome and one hell of a ride with her can’t wait to see her final run hope to see her full send great job Derek and fam for the hard work u do 🎉

[@grantpringle8950]

You're such a good man, Derek. God bless you and your family, brother. You're one of the rare celebrities who deserves all of the success you've found.

[@fgialcgorge7392]

I love that thing. Represents America perfectly. We may take some damage, smack a few walls but the heart is there and we always come back. Merry Christmas all.

[@tommypratt521]

Independence has been a staple of vice grip garage for a long time. It was commendable that you saved the car in the first place. She was one rough unit from the get go. But you invested time, energy, money, and created an exciting piece. Independence has brought us some fun entertainment throughout the build, the races, the burnouts, etc. I feel like she was there through the major growth of VGG and the memories created with her will forever be a hallmark piece in the history of the channel. That being said, I would agree with you that the car is too rough too feasibly build it into anything other than what it already is. And to change the character of the car would simply turn it into "just another chevelle" at the local car show. Remember, the viewers watch the show because of you. The vehicles are just the catalysts. We appreciate the entertainment you provide on a regular basis. If you decide to retire independence it would not be in vein. We would understand. In my opinion, the best move with the car would be to pull the good parts to put into another build. Maybe put a stock SBC/th350 back in independence and do a giveaway with the car. I'm sure a fan would love to have it in their collection. And maybe to someone who doesn't have attachment to the originality of what independence has become, may find the desire to restore it and do it justice... just my two cents.

[@edwardsullivan6149]

I love watching Derek work on independence reminds me of almost every car I had as a young man, tin, license plates, spray foam, beer cans whatever it took to put a rusty car back together again! Keep it up! Awesome content! BTW The “campfire” in the van had me on the floor 😂😂😂

[@whofactchecksthefactcheckers]

Man the spray foam brought back memories 😂😂 years ago I rebuilt the whole front fender on a 90s camaro with spray foam and bondo after drifting into a tree on a gravel road 🤣

[@stevenmcc2119]

“Chip foose keeps calling me “ 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@ThePower1037]

It breaks my heart seeing Independence rot away. Retirement is needed to keep the car in one piece, so thanks for doing the right thing and keeping her alive.

[@krisgustoff]

I honestly think you hit the nail on the head with the Hot Wheels idea. The statement about the hundreds of kids that have been with the car, the times we have seen you pass out die-cast cars on tour, and how important your kids are to you... I mean that sounds like the most fulfilling idea to preserve the history of Independence! Let her live as a showpiece and the icon of VGG.

[@jonathanklein383]

Guess my thoughts are pull any racing or drag components you need out and replace with stock parts or oem and drive for fun to shows and such. She had a cool second life let her retire and keep her what she is.

[@jimlake1478]

This is the greatest video yet.... I'm in stitches here😂😂 Retire the car, put it in front of the shop!❤️

[@danholmes7660]

What a nice trophy/ornament 👍

[@joemalikowski8961]

Hell's yes...on a 12 inch raised concrete pad 🍻

[@joemalikowski8961]

Forgot she's going to need a roof...don't want the old gal getting sunburned...I'd kick in a couple hundred bucks for that project.

[@strangersound]

@@joemalikowski8961 In a glass case. ;)

[@jimlake1478]

@@davidt9292 that would be impressive!

[@espensmith9537]

Nice video, as a master car body technician you put a big smile on my face!! 😁 Keep up the good work! 👍

[@ashtonburns31]

It's amazing how attached you can get to a vehicle you only see in videos. Seeing her being loved and loved on for what she represents does swell the heart. Thanks for keeping her alive.

[@zacharyvought5597]

Pretty incredible combination of mechanical knowledge and an creative touch- truly inspiring. I’ve never seen a vehicle molded like clay with a winch! - nice work

[@brianwiddows5181]

Heck of a transformation you made there. Most would have said it was impossible, but now you can't even tell she got in a fight with a wall. Independence always wins. Would love to see the original big block you built back in the car for 2.0. That leaky oil paint job along with the We the People valve covers covers was one of the coolest things I've ever seen. Love the content. Happy Thanksgiving to you and the family

[@wesleyhoehn9423]

I would like to see the original engine he built back in independence And the current engine in the new burnout machine

[@Omgninjas2]

@@wesleyhoehn9423 I third this sentiment. That would be perfect.

[@mojo68mitch]

Go getem Derek. Rust never sleeps!!!!

[@40spinup]

Just saw your Motortrend video of the first episode. Congratulations my friend. Don’t let them change your style or the way you do anything. Longtime subscriber and so proud of you. I wish you you and your family all the success in the world. A fella has bust his doobries for too long and you deserve everything. Love from 🇬🇧 Please don’t stop @VGG though. I’d miss it deeply.

[@TheeDaveCook]

I think the shorty c10 would be cool with a independence style paint job. It be cool to see you do the paint work too as well as everything else.

[@SeanStevens24]

New VGG video on a Tuesday morning? Well, I'm at work, but I'm sure there's a cold snack somewhere in the office...

[@jacobweaver5406]

Man this one got me a little choked up. Love to see what you're doing bringing her back around Derek. This car has been my favorite since i first saw it and its amazing to see you not giving up on it.

[@dadstoygarage1878]

I really enjoyed watching you straighten that car back out. I had an idea for version 2.0. I personally want to get a Chevelle in this vintage at some point and buy a retired NASCAR. Then put the Chevelle body onto the Nascar and technically have a street legal nascar with a super cool body. Yours is rusty enough that cutting out the floor really is not a big loss. Would be cool to see you do the swap.

[@modoc852]

I’m beginning to get what you’re about after watching this. I’ve always been a little slow to figure people out but not mechanical things. My mind thinks... take something and restore it to brand new but I think you’re past that, like restoring an ideal then having fun with it for the enjoyment of others and for that this viewer says thanks.

[@lestaylor3641]

Really greater she still lives. When retired she would make great lawn art out in front of the garage but she's still got a big heart and wants more miles to be put on her. 👍👍✌.

[@tacratt6091]

The things Independence represents makes her a thing of beauty! Those colors never run!! God Bless America!!

[@CheapSunglasses0]

I don't know about everyone else. But I for one, would love to see the Independence with a full restoral. I think it would show the 9/11 folks, and previous owners that the memory of that day will live on. Shows resilience. Thanks Derek for the great content.

[@stephencooper5622]

Christine was exactly what I’d been thinking too when you were pulling the body back into shape…Could hear Harlem Nocturne playin in my head even! Great to see her living on…long live Independence!

[@johnd21]

What a great rig. Independence is VGG and what it stands for. 🇺🇸

[@throttlewatch4614]

Everyone loves this car I’m happy to see it’s getting some love and staying around

[@michaelsulpizio606]

Derek: I listened to a Feller pour his heart out on the Independence car, it is special! You have made it special and given it a life and given it a life of its own ! And it represents something special Nick named after something that embodies the essence of our beloved country independence, Freedom and our Constitution and bill of rights all banged out by the great forefathers of this great country! Now I’m 75 a Marine veteran I’m sure there are a lot of folks out here that feel the same as I do about this I trust your decision on what you want to do with Independence! Preserve it and give it a place of reverence and respect in the world! It is much the same as what is going on in our nation right now! There are those, that if we let them will destroy “ Independence “ destroy our freedom, destroy our Constitution, destroy our bill of rights! It needs to be preserved! Because “ Independence “ needs to be preserved! Way too much blood, sweat, tears, and sacrifice have been paid forward by patriotic citizens Fellers and Felleretts to preserve, “ independence “ in our 250 “aprox” years of existence! That’s what your “ Independence “ Represents “ I think that’s what “ We The People “ should stand for we need to preserve that car and we the people need to preserve our nation and sooner than later! If I was there I would offer my help to preserve the old Gal! People need to see her preserved as does this old gal we live in! People of the world need a light on a shining hill to go to in time of need, someplace safe where they can become citizens, assimilate into our system contribute and perpetuate an independent, great country as we used to be. Without “ independence “ freedom “ We the people “ will not exist! Only Darkness and death! Preserve it Derek, preserve it! Regards Your Feller friend Mad Mike S. ☃🥶❄ PS. Spent nearly 55years in the automotive restoration business let me know if you need a hand centering that body!? I’ll be in the vicinity in a few weeks! I’d be privileged to lend a hand! Mike S. ……….