This is my 69 Nova SS. The original owner of the car was drafted in late 1970, and was sent to Vietnam. While he was there, he was injured, and was not able to drive the car after that. The car sat in a garage until 1978 when the owners brother decided to start driving the car. He had the car repainted to the color that it is now (was originally forest green). His brother kept the car until 2000 when he sold to a person in Batavia, IL. This person kept the car until last January when I purchase it.

In January 2003 I sold a 1965 Chevelle (original SS L-79 car), and I looked around for a new project when I came across this Nova. I’ve always liked Novas and thought it would be a great project. The car had 17365 miles on it, with an LT1 in it with a Pro-Tech-o-Plate. When I got the car home I was able to take a closer look. The cars drive train and suspension had been badly abused, and neglected. So rather than trying to rebuild what was there. I decided to make the Nova as much as I could, a one of a kind. Keep in mind, I wanted a driver not a trailer queen.

One of the first things I did decide was, what kind of an engine I would put. I decided on a real ZZ430. The engine has the GM block number of #109, out of 430 that were manufactured. GM rates the engine at 430 horses with 430 foot pounds of torque. The engine after installing and tuning, not to mention a few bucks, is really awesome. I’m glade I made the choice.

I’ve added a completely ceramic coated exhaust, rebuilt the Trans, with a shift kit and B&M 2000 stall. Re placed all of the suspension using Edelbrock EDI shocks, F40 GM springs in the rear, 1¼" sway bars front and rear, new spindles and drilled disk brakes. I’ve also added a Dakota digital dash, and a B&M Quicksilver ratchet shifter.

In October, I have an appointment to have the car repainted. I’ve also found a Dickey Harrell Stinger Hood which I’ll have installed during the painting. The car will be painted the same color that it is now. After you view the pictures, I'm sure you'll agree that this Nova is one of the nicest anywhere

Thanks for letting me share this with you!

Richard Nichols's 69 Nova SS

Winfield, IL.