Over 100 is quite many! A Camaro enthusiast should definitely be considered a Camaro connoisseur, if he has owned more than 100 first generation Camaros (1967, 1968, 1969) through the years. More specifically, a Camaro convertible collector since most of the over 100 cars have been convertibles.
Above: Doug's headers and a stainless-steel custom tubular exhaust system take care of the 383 Chevy stroker's spent fumes quite melodiously. An MSD electronic ignition, coil, and distributor keeps all those electrons, protons, and neurons firing smoothly. A Vintage Air HVAC system provides comfort for the Camaro's passengers, while a high flow water pump, electric fan, and Champion aluminum radiator keeps the engine's cooling system the correct temperature for optimum performance throughout the year. The engine's backed by a GM 700R4 automatic transmission and a heavy duty 12-bolt GM rear axle.
That honored readers is an enormous amount of drop top Camaros to have bought, fixed up, driven, shown, been used in movies and commercials, and sold down the road to the next lucky Camaro collector. Yes, you read that correctly. Some of Huntington Beach, CA resident Bill Morehouse's first gen Camaro coupes and ragtops have been in ads, TV shows, and movies. Some of these Camaros have been Indy 500 Pace Cars. There have been some SS models. You'll also find RS, Z28, and stocker models in Bill's illustrious first-generation Camaro worship and caretaker past and present.
Life's Big Events Include Camaros Changing Hands
Bill characterizes his current 1969 LeMans Blue Camaro convertible as a Stock/Custom. Seven years ago, he convinced a car buddy's son who owned the LeMans Blue hued beauty who had just had a son of his own and needed the money, to part ways with the barely running ragtop.
Above: A new dash and center console, Camaro logo floor mats, a Retro Sound stereo system with upgraded speakers and kick panel speakers, and a new complete interior with door panels, seats, carpet, and seat belts make the confines of the Camaro's cockpit much more accommodating on those audacious winter to summer cruises.
Mr. Morehouse then spent two years' time and a fair amount of money with Classic Industries (Thank you, Bill!) replacing everything on the Camaro. At the time of purchase, he was getting married. He sold a Hugger Orange 1969 convertible that he had used on his honeymoon to fund the purchase of this one.
In addition to spending a fair amount of coin with Classic Industries, Bill also would from time to time, hire some professionals to help with certain aspects of the build. He has memories of scraped knuckles, sore back pain, and the frustrating times when projects didn't go as planned and had to be accomplished by taking a different approach. But what Bill has to show for all his money, time, sweat equity, and perseverance is a pretty fantastic Dover White over LeMans Blue 1969 drop top Camaro. He drives her once a week during the winter and four days a week in the summer, and she's always sans top in the glorious SoCal summer months. And as you might imagine - she never sees, hears, or feels rain drops falling on her head.
This Camaro Is His Final Restoration - So Says Mr. Morehouse
His family and friends have probably heard him say that before, considering that he has renewed over 100 of these babies. Time will tell. On the next occasion that we see him in the CI retail showroom, we'll look for his Camaro in the parking lot. If there's a different hued Camaro drop top languidly relaxing in the Surf City sun, we imagine that Bill might just be onto renewing yet another one.
Above: The new grill mesh is painted LeMans Blue. Pro painter Santini is credited with the pristine LeMans Blue exterior paintwork.
To his credit, the owner says that he's still upgrading this car. How is it that every old muscle car we've ever collectively owned is never finished? It may be that we like to lavish our prides and joys with little trinkets that help them go faster, look better, and be a bit more comfortable.
Above: The Camaro is now adorned with SS badges and new taillights. A new stainless steel fuel tank and fuel lines feed the Edelbrock four-barrel carb and aluminum intake topped 383-cubic inch Chevy V8 stroker mill.
Above: Bill replaced the hydraulic power convertible top cylinders and the top's boot.
Above: There is 17x7-inch US Wheels in the front shod with 235/45 ZR17-inch radial tires in the front and 18x9-inch US Wheels wrapped by 245/50 ZR18-inch radial rubber in the back. Beefy front and rear KYB sway bars with traction bars in the rear get Bill's Camaro handling much better than they did off the GM assembly line in 1969. Wilwood power disc brakes provide plenty of stopping power.
Camaro Components & Classic Industries Go Hand in Hand
Many of you know that Classic Industries was first named Classic Camaro over 40 years ago. If you're renewing, restoring, maintaining, and/or restomodding your Chevrolet Camaro, Classic Industries is an awesome source for Camaro components and accessories. You can shop online and augment your GM pony car parts search with a printed Camaro Parts & Accessories Catalog. Simply click the button below, fill out the form, and we'll mail you a Camaro catalog. Have fun in your garage, on the open road, and at the show 'n shines of your choosing!
