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John Packard’s ’67 Nova SS

BY Fuelish Media Photography by THE AUTHOR
E

mbarking on the monumental task of crafting a custom car is more than a mere project, it’s an exhilarating voyage of self-expression echoing through the curves and contours of metal and machinery. Whether one immerses themselves as the hands-on artisan or entrusts the creation to skilled craftsmen, the end result becomes a masterpiece of individuality. Yet, in the labyrinthine realm of car building, the term “finished” becomes a paradox; a puzzle that perplexes both creator and observer alike. While some endure what feels like an eternity for completion, others, even upon reaching the finish line, find themselves haunted by the specter of alternative possibilities. These contemplations serve as the seeds of perpetual metamorphosis, revealing that for some, a build is never truly finished but rather an evolving work of art.

close low angle quarter front view of John Packard’s Marina Blue ’67 Nova SS parked against an orange sunset on a rural road

Step into the vibrant world of John Packard, a visionary hailing from the sun-drenched landscapes of Prescott, Arizona. His canvas, a dazzling ’67 Nova SS, becomes the protagonist in an epic automotive narrative that defies conventions and transcends the mundane. While some owners may merely flaunt their freshly minted machines before parting ways in televised auctions, others, like John, choose a different path—a path of perpetual evolution with their mechanical companions. The rebirth of the ’67 Nova became a multidimensional journey. The car is a blend of classic styling with the right amount of contemporary flavoring to tie it all together.

The Nova’s cosmic odyssey commenced with the chassis—a pivotal chapter in this vehicular saga. The factory frame from the previous build gracefully stepped aside, making room for a jaw-dropping, jewelry-level creation by the masterful hands of Matt Tomb from Phoenix. To witness it in person is to be engulfed in awe. Outfitted with Matt’s front suspension and a four-link rear supporting a Strange Engineering circle track rearend, elegantly connected to a Bowler five-speed gearbox, the frame is the sacred canvas upon which the Nova’s new masterpiece is painted.

low angle view through the open driver side door at the Marina Blue ’67 Nova SS front seating featuring buckets seats lined with blue leather accented with center white stripes and custom white stitching
close view of the R.P.M. gauge on the ’67 Nova SS
close view of the ’67 Nova SS gauge cluster located behind the steering wheel
The heart of the beast—the engine—became a symphony of power and precision that transcends the ordinary. Set on a 502ci Chevy big-block, John’s vision extends beyond the confines of ordinary crate engines. Enlisting the expertise of legendary race engine builders at Ryan Falconer Racing Engines, located just a town over in Chino Valley, Arizona, injected a new life into the big-block. Adorned with bespoke billet components, a mock-Hilborn setup powered by a covert MoTeC M800 ECU, and an exquisitely modified Billet Specialties serpentine drive system, the engine is a melodic work of art in itself. The intricate details extend to a breathtaking set of headers and a complete exhaust system, a testament to Matt Tomb’s artistry.

For all the concealed wonders beneath the hood, the marina blue-clad exterior beckons attention—a siren’s call in the vast ocean of automotive aesthetics. Opting for a more strategic choice, John’s decision to embrace the traditional tire and Halibrand replica wheel ensemble gracefully complements the car without succumbing to the ephemeral constraints of contemporary trends. Transitioning from the depths beneath the hood to the celestial expanse under the roof unveils a blue-hued interior crafted by the skillful hands of Mark Lopez of Elegant Interiors in Upland, California. A timeless and luxurious style dominates the interior, interrupted only by custom billet aluminum air conditioning vents—a stunning detail created by the enigmatic Falconers, Erik and Ryan. This specialized creation pays homage to John’s confidant, the esteemed Hardy “Hoss” Allen, all while prompting the presence of the 502 beneath the hood.

Describing this rolling gemstone that is the ’67 Nova SS transcends the constraints of any narrative. It’s akin to deciphering the intricacies of a cosmic tapestry—an endeavor that demands an expansive canvas. With each viewing, the Nova articulates its narrative, and yet John concludes “I’m done,” with his smile alluding to a future abundant with the excitement of traversing uncharted highways. In the end, the Nova stands not as a mere creation but as a testament to the eternal journey that lies ahead, promising an eagerly anticipated odyssey of highway miles and discovery.

close view of a compartment in the ’67 Nova SS that holds a battery component and a fire extinguisher
driver side profile of the Marina Blue ’67 Nova SS
TECH
Owner: John Packard, Prescott, Arizona
Vehicle: ’67 Nova SS
Engine

Type: Chevy 502 big-block
Displacement: 502 ci
Cylinder Heads: Chevrolet
Rotating Assembly: Chevrolet
Valvetrain: Chevrolet
Camshaft: Chevrolet
Induction: Hilborn intake, MoTeC M800 ECU
Assembly: Ryan Falconer Racing Engines
Exhaust: Matt Tomb
Accessory Drive: Billet Specialties modified by Ryan Falconer Racing Engines
Dress-Up: Modified valve covers by Ryan Falconer Racing Engines
Fuel Tank: 27-gallon custom by Matt Tomb
Wiring: Martin Charles, MC Automotive (Glendora, CA)

Drivetrain

Transmission: Bowler five-speed
Clutch: Twin-disc Centerforce
Driveshaft: Strange
Rear Axle: Strange circle track with limited-slip differential, 3.70:1 gearing

Chassis

Chassis: Full custom by Matt Tomb
Front Suspension: Full custom IFS by Matt Tomb, Strange double-adjustable coilover shocks

Rear Suspension: Full custom four-link with Panhard bar by Matt Tomb, Strange double-adjustable coilover shocks
Brakes: Wilwood ceramic rotors and four-piston calipers, custom master cylinder reservoir bracket by Ryan Falconer Racing Engines
Wheels & Tires

Wheels: 15×6 and 15×10 polished American Rebel with custom caps
Tires: 195/65R15 BFGoodrich Advantage (front), 325/50R15 Nitto NT555 RII (rear)

Interior

Upholstery: Blue leather with center white stripes in seats and door panels, custom stitching
Seats and Seatbelts: OEM
Steering: Electric power steering with OEM wheel
Instrumentation: OEM with vintage dash-mounted tach
Pedals: Modified throttle, Wilwood brake and clutch pedals fitted with OEM foot pads
Shifter: Hurst
Climate Control: Vintage Air with custom billet vents by Ryan Falconer Racing Engines

Exterior

Bodywork and Paint: Marina Blue exterior, electric door, and hood locks
Hood: Goodmark cowl induction
Grille: OEM
Bumpers: Modified front and rear

the ’67 Nova SS Chevy 502 big-block engine with modified Ryan Falconer valve covers
close view of a rim and hubcap on the ’67 Nova SS
close view of component on the ’67 Nova SS
close view of the rear driver side taillight that lowers to give access to the gas tank and the rear driver side panel emblem on the ’67 Nova SS
direct rear view of the Marina Blue ’67 Nova SS