454-Powered 1966 Chevrolet El Camino

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The El Camino began in 1959 as Chevrolet’s response to Ford’s Ranchero, a car-based “gentleman’s pickup.” When the full-size Chevies were redesigned for 1961, the El Camino was dropped, only to return in 1964 as part of the new mid-size Chevelle line-up. This ’66 pickup has been upgraded mechanically to include a 454 cubic inch big-block V8 with all the trimmings. Located in Lillington, North Carolina, it’s been offered by friends of the owner here on eBay. The auction has found bids of $4,444 so far, but not enough to trigger the reserve.

Based on a 2-door Chevelle station wagon, the intermediate El Camino would run from 1964 to 1987 when the rear-wheel-drive platform vehicles were retired. The El Camino – along with the entire Chevelle line-up – got a facelift for 1966 and it could be dressed up with a 396 cubic inch V8 for the first time. Since we don’t have a VIN or some other form of identification for this truck, we don’t know how it left the factory. But a 283 or 327 cubic inch V8 would be plausible. For 1966, Chevy’s El Camino would outsell the Ford Ranchero by 12,000 units (with a total of 35,000).

The owner of this El Camino was stiffed by the highest bidder when this truck was listed a few weeks ago, so it’s back to the drawing board. Other than the Rally wheels which came along after 1966, this El Camino looks like your ordinary pickup. But pop the hood and there sits a 454 V8 with Roller Rockers, a TH-350 automatic transmission, 4.10 gears, and dual exhaust, also from 1970 and beyond. The seller, who comes across as a part-time dealer, has just replaced the power brake booster and fuel pump.

We’re told the pickup runs great (once warmed up; no choke) and you’ll cruise around in comfort with its new interior. Delivery is possible if those needs are identified before it comes time to take ownership. The market thinks highly of these vehicles, and they can run $35-40,000 in superior condition. This is a nice truck, but it’s no longer stock, so what’s the top dollar for one with the modifications it bears?

Auctions Ending Soon

Comments

  1. Simon

    Hello.
    I’m trying to locate the current whereabouts and owner of a 1965 Plymouth Valiant drag racer advertised for sale Enfield New Hampshire. Any info appreciated.
    Thanks.
    Simon.
    Simonlnz2000@yahoo.co.nz

    Like 1
  2. Jay

    Why are you spamming the Elky posting?

    Like 5
    • MorleyMember

      Spamming—- interesting. Maybe the guy thought the car in the back round with the snorkle scoop reminded him or maybe the address. Who cares The barn find guys came through

      Like 2
  3. Claudio

    Big block carbed 454 with th350 and 4,10 rear is a great 1/4 mile setup but in today’s gas prices , me thinks it needs a new transmission unless you like seeing the gas gauge dropping as you rev at 4k on the highway…

    Like 0
  4. Troy s

    Looks like a stealthy ride in black paint with black steelies. Why not a 454 after all these years, for a cruiser like this. Fuel consumption, lots of it, is part of the deal with cars like this, but I figured it would have a turbo 400 not the 350. Nice ride.

    Like 4

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