1965 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser

This classic 1965 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser will undergo a dramatic change in the next few weeks here at Dallas County Hot Rods.

One of our first projects is to replace the original (though rebuilt) small block V8. The Vista Cruiser will receive a very stout 455 big block.

In addition there will be a new pedal to the left of the brakes. A TKO 600 is ready for its new home.

Though the paint is generally well done, the last restorer neglected to properly finish the clear coat. Look closely, that's not water dripping down the edge of the hood.

The previous restorer seems to have been a big fan of Ford Blue. Don't get us wrong, we love a rattle can of blue paint as much as the next guy, but this build will correct the paint colors under the car just the same.

Here is the new powerplant getting ready for install.

There isn't much prettier than a fresh set of curvy headers. These shorties will tuck in nicely alongside the 455.

The fuel tank's color will be corrected, too.

As we work through disassembly on a project vehicle we inevitably come across problems that aren't directly related to the repair. This creative aftermarket wiring will be fixed before reassembly.

On this rear upper control arm you can see that the paint has peeled away as a result of a brake fluid leak.

Brake fluid is incredibly destructive to paint so it's important to check the system very closely for leaks.

During disassembly we make sure to keep dripping brake hoses from leaking onto painted parts.

The rebuilt 455 gets a coat of bronze paint before installation.

During rear suspension installation we discovered that the station wagon's mounting points are different than a standard A Body. Tim managed to fix them while strengthening the mounts.