1969 EL CAMINO FULL
1969 EL CAMINO CODE

On the bottom there’s a steel crank from an LS7 crate motor, reconditioned rods, and fresh forged aluminum pistons with 10.75:1 compression to be friendly on pump gas. This is a factory big block El Camino, but the original 396 has been replaced by a built 461 cubic inch big block V8 with all the upgrades. There’s a bit of storage space behind the seat, which is useful when everything else is out in the open, and as I said, once you’re inside, it’s almost impossible to tell you’re not in a standard Chevelle. Buckets are cool, but the bench seat in this car is far more practical in the real world, allowing three-across seating in a pinch and making it feel more spacious when it’s just one or two. Factory gauges cover only the basics, so a trio of aftermarket dials was added under the dash, but even the original AM radio is in place and yes, it still works. You’ll also note this Elky has some great options, including ice cold factory A/C (fully rebuilt and still using R12 refrigerant) and a tilt steering column, which wears a correct SS wheel. Plush black carpets make you forget that there’s a bed out back when you’re behind the wheel and the view out the front is pure Chevelle.

1969 EL CAMINO FULL

The all-new interior is full of correct reproduction equipment, including a fresh seat covers, accurate SS door panels, and a restored dash with new dash pad. The gentleman who restored this El Camino bought it simply because it was the straightest big block Chevy of any kind he’d ever seen, and the finished result speaks for itself. Fit and finish are exemplary and even the bed is beautifully finished with no signs of use since it was finished (a heavy-duty rubber mat is included). All the chrome is exceptionally nice, with beautiful bumpers, polished trim around the bed, and correct wheel arch moldings. You’ll also note it’s correctly detailed with a black SS grille, proper ‘SS396’ emblems, and the black insert on the tailgate. No cowl induction hood, no chin spoiler, just clean OEM lines. It’s also quite stock, with nothing more than the black side stripes and some badges to denote the SS model. Sight down the sides and you’ll find no ripples, no signs of botched bodywork, and a shine that’s so deep you can swim in it. That works beautifully, giving the El Camino a much more integrated look than some of the later designs. Why? Look at the angle of the fender behind the headlight and the angle of the B-pillar. I also have to say that I like the look of the ’69 El Camino better than the ‘70s, although I prefer the ’70 Chevelle.

1969 EL CAMINO CODE

The sizzling red paint is beautifully done and accurately replicates Garnet Red, although this one was originally code 65 Olympic Gold with a code E Parchment top.

It is wearing 100% of its original sheetmetal with zero patches, repairs, or filler, and the results speak for themselves. Hailing from warm, dry Texas, this laser-straight Elky has been treated to a comprehensive restoration that has turned it into one of the finest we’ve ever seen. Add in a thundering big block, ice cold factory A/C, and a great color combination, and you get a hauler that will be welcome at any show and still puts a smile on its owner’s face every time he turns the key.

Go ahead and take a good, long look at this beautiful truck/car and see if you don’t find a way to fall in love. And in many cases, like this stunning 1969 El Camino SS396, they’re actually better-looking than their automotive counterparts. Chevy’s “Chevelle with a bed” is so grossly under-valued in the market that you can get tons of performance, style, and practicality for pennies on the dollar compared to a garden-variety Chevelle. If you want to know one of the best-kept secrets in the old car hobby, it’s the Chevrolet El Camino. Chevrolet El Camino 461 cubic inch V8 1969 General description :

1969 el camino