1970 Dodge Challenger

1970 Dodge Challenger R/T Hemi Convertible Resto-Mod This 1970 Dodge Challenger R/T Hemi Convertible is the culmination of a 20 year project, to create what could be considered the Ultimate Mopar. As a former ASE Mechanic, Electrical Engineer and Pilot, simply good would not cut it on this build and after acquiring the base car in 2004, the build began in four stages. In 1970, Dodge produced 9 original Hemi Challenger Convertibles- 5 of which were fitted with a 4 speed manual and 4 automatics, as those have reached values unattainable for most enthusiasts, the initial idea was to replicate that-but over time it morphed into an even more impressive project. Starting with an original Challenger Convertible in the eye catching shade of Top Banana Yellow you see here, the project began by stripping the entire car down to bare metal. With over 1,000 hours spent in body and paint, there was an emphasis put on ensuring there were no imperfections in the body and that the panel gaps were all perfect. The entire unibody was put into a jig to make sure all elements were brought back to factory dimensions and a new fiberglass hood was added with the Shaker induction scoop. When it came time to paint, DuPont Chroma 2 was used, matching the original Top Banana Yellow color, and then adding 10 coats of DuPont Diamond Show clear coat on the upper section of the car. The lower section was finished in matching DuPont Chroma paint but in this case, single stage. All of the trim was either straightened and polished or replaced with the highest quality replacements available and shows flawlessly. Even the underside of the car was painted to match the stunning Top Banana yellow top, and the exhaust is finished in black high-temp paint. Although this car was originally fitted with a manual convertible top, it was converted to power using factory components but the pump was rebuilt along with the lines and ram cylinders. The top itself is a high quality Haartz canvas piece that was custom made to fit this car, and a replacement glass rear window was added. This Challenger is more than just some great bodywork on a sub-par chassis though. It was really when it got to the underpinnings where this turned from a straight ahead restoration, into something far more significant. The front suspension system was replaced with coilover independent suspension which offers tremendous adjustability and allows for the addition of a precise rack and pinion steering system. Additionally, the change in suspension alone removes over 110 lbs from the nose when compared to an original Hemi Challenger Convertible, meaning that not only does it handle better thanks to the new pieces but feels more nimble than the original car too. The suspension in the rear is based on the A33/34 TrackPak that was the original heavy duty suspension found in Hemi Challengers, retaining leaf springs for a standard look. That being said, the leaf springs under the car now are completely custom and built to ens