Rows of dark green, leafy kale, bordered on one side by a treed hill, follow the road, disappearing into the horizon. It is quiet and still. Then Clint appears in his 1962 Chevrolet Nova SS, drawing all eyes like steel to a magnet. 

1962 Chevrolet Nova SS

Photos by Zack Poole

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The Nova, finished in GM Surf Blue, is a striking contrast to the muted, earthy landscape. The paint colour pops, drawing attention to the vehicle’s defined lines and curves. 

Restoring this classic car to such a high calibre took time and patience. But it was sourcing the right parts to complete the restoration that Clint found to be the biggest challenge.

Because of its rare, small-body style, Clint imported most of the components for this "California" car from the U.S. Even so, Clint's shop, CDK Automotive, was tasked with all the restoration work.   



When it came to choosing an engine for the Nova SS, Clint picked the GM crate, 500-horsepower LS3. The engine offered ease of power, readily available parts, and modern driving characteristics.

And the sound—every repositioning comes with a symphony of eight beautifully refined pistons firing in rhythmic sequence. The Nova's low, deep, V8 rumble is a menacing warning of its powerful potential.

After the photoshoot wraps, Clint slides back behind the wheel and looks at the passenger seat. You couldn’t ask for a more perfect day for a back road drive through farmland and rolling hills. His father would have loved it.

Need help selecting an engine for your restoration or build? Lordco Auto Parts offers custom street and strip engine restoration work and hi-performance engine builds. Our machine shop journeyman can build engines for domestic, import, light diesel, and marine applications to your specifications.

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