The engine bay is dressed up with Bous Performance valve covers and includes a supporting cast that features a Top Speed Performance water pump, Champion aluminum radiator Derale fans, and FiTech ignition components. Eddie Motorsports hood hinges add some flair and conform with the clean theme underhood.

Behind the engine sits a 4L80E automatic transmission built by A Transmission Clinic of Corona, California, connected to a Driveshaft Pro driveshaft and a stout 12-bolt rearend packed with Eaton Truetrac limited-slip differential and 3.73 gears—perfect for street cruising and plenty capable of handling Jose’s occasional heavy right foot when it comes time to put on a little smoke show.

The Chevelle’s stance and handling are just as important as its muscular demeanor. The factory chassis was upgraded with Bous Performance control arms and spindles up front, paired with Aldan American coilover shocks and springs for improved ride quality and handling. The rear was treated to matching Aldan American coilovers. Steering is dialed in with a Borgeson steering box, giving the car improved road response and driver feedback.

Bous Performance 12-inch rotors and four-piston calipers provide confident braking. The car rolls on a staggered set of American Racing VN514 wheels—20×8.5 up front and 20×10 out back—all wrapped in sticky Nitto tires that offer a perfect balance between grip and style.

Inside, the black leather upholstery was expertly handled by Gamino Upholstery, retaining the factory seats and dash while enhancing comfort and durability. Modern tech includes a Dakota Digital gauge cluster, a Bluetooth entertainment system by Audio Developments, and a punchy sound system consisting of Orion amps, Infinity speakers, and a Kicker 12-inch subwoofer—all wired and installed by Jose’s own Ybarra Customz shop. The A/C system from Old Air Products ensures comfort on hot SoCal cruise days, and the cabin is finished off with Bous Performance steering components and Eddie Motorsports pedals for a custom yet cohesive look.

The exterior keeps things pristine, clean, and classic. RR Autoworks, also in Stanton, handled the bodywork and sprayed the striking PPG Gray Metallic paint, with painter Rafael Rodriguez bringing Jose’s vision to life. Stock bumpers, grille, headlights, and taillights keep the vintage vibe intact, while fresh plating and panel alignment elevate the presentation.

Jose admits that if he had a chance to do it all over again, he would have started with a better candidate. A supercharger and six-speed transmission might also be in the mix for the future, but for now he’s truly impressed how the car came out, and how he enjoyed spending time working on the car with his boys. “It wasn’t easy, but taking on a project like this and working alongside my sons made the experience more meaningful,” Jose says. “The most memorable experience was when we fired it up for the first time. The sound of that engine coming to life was remarkable. I’ll never forget the look on my sons’ faces when they heard that engine roar. In fact, we all had the expression of shock, excitement, and pure joy. We’re incredibly proud of what we accomplished in just under two years. The attention the car gets at shows and on the road makes all the hard work worthwhile, giving us a real sense of pride every time we take it out.”

Bodywork and Paint: RR Autoworks (Stanton, CA)
Painter: Rafael Rodriguez
Paint: PPG Gray Metallic
Grille: Stock
Bumpers: Stock
Headlights: Stock
Taillights: Stock
Plating: RR Autoworks