In the muscle car era, Dodge and Plymouth battled for dominance on the streets and drag strips.
The Dodge Coronet and Charger boasted the legendary 426 cubic inch Hemi engine, while Plymouth offered the firepower in their Belvedere.
While the higher-end Satellite claimed most of the Hemi Belvederes, the mid-range Belvedere II also received a healthy dose of 426 Hemi muscle.
One such Belvedere II, a hardtop, met an unfortunate end in the late 60s or early 70s. A wayward connecting rod sent the engine block into disarray, shuttering the car’s glory days.
Fast forward to 1981. This once-proud Belvedere II had fallen on hard times. Years of neglect and exposure to the elements turned it into a rusting hulk. But for a keen gearhead named Joe Vischansky, the car wasn’t junk, it was a treasure trove.
At a mere $400, the price was right. Vischansky wasn’t after a pristine ride, though. His eyes were on the real prize: the four-speed transmission, driveshaft, Dana 60 rear end, and other hidden gems tucked away in the trunk.
Over several years, his dedication shone through as he meticulously collected parts, even building a rotisserie to facilitate the restoration. His commitment extended to the core – the engine. In an unlikely turn of events, he found a Hemi in a chicken coop, breathing new life into the project.
