It seems like some people just have to work harder than others to make their dreams come true. But then, the rewards are usually sweeter for those hard-working individuals. Case in point: Frankie Nuez of Chula Vista, California. Frankie's a member of the San Diego chapter of Majestics C.C. and his "Cream 5" '65 Chevy Impala is a dream machine worthy of such a distinguished club. Now, no one handed this car to him, nor did he buy it as a "turnkey" lowrider, complete and ready to cruise. This was his project from the ground up.
"I purchased the car in 2000 from its first owner for $1,000," Frankie reports. "The price was low due to the numerous repairs that needed attention." Frankie started with the "heart" of the car, and began rebuilding the stock 327-c.i.d. engine. He then turned his attention to the body, interior and undercarriage, which Frankie wanted as clean as the exterior. "It took two years to build," he says. "But it felt like six."
That time would have no doubt felt a lot longer without the help of Frankie's fellow Majestics members. He thanks them, along with his family for "putting up" with him. Although he's now able to cruise and show his ride with pride alongside other Majestics machines, Frankie feels that he still has a few miles to go with this project, and refuses to call it quits until he gets the "completed vehicle to turntable status."
Cream 5Owner: Frankie NuezVehicle: '65 Chevrolet ImpalaCity/State: Chula Vista, CaliforniaClub: Majestics C.C.-San Diego
Engine/Drivetrain: Humberto at Mercedes Auto Body in Chula Vista rebuilt the original 327-c.i.d. V-8 with chrome-plated pieces (thanks to Bird's Plating in Paradise Hills, California). Tony from Southland got the transmission in gear and the Ledezmas are credited with the exhaust overhaul.
Body/Paint: Frankie smoothed his own sheet metal before Majestics member Mike D. from Paradise Hills shot the DuPont paint and the Cisneros added silver leaf and pinstriping.
Interior: Villegas Tapiceria in Tijuana, Mexico, restored the original two-tone leather and cloth interior with Chevy emblems.
Sound System: David Garcia installed a Pioneer head unit, 900-watt Rockford Fosgate amps and four 6x9 Pioneer speakers.
Setup: Frankie dropped in two chrome Pro Hopper pumps, four dumps, 8-inch (front) and 10-inch (rear) cylinders, six batteries and four switches.
Tires: P155/70-R13 Cooper Trendsetter
Wheels: 13x7 Dayton wires