In a new video, the YouTube channel Uncle Tony’s Garage explores what’s involved in bringing a 1967 Dodge Charger back to life after sitting for more than 18 months. Wannabe mechanics will appreciate the look under the hood, while experienced wrenchers can enjoy the on-the-fly repair work required to get this classic car back on the road.
Presenter Tony DeFeo ignores the other drool-worthy Mopars sitting in his driveway and heads to a faded first-generation Dodge Charger. He parked the vehicle last year due to a slipping transmission, but now it’s time to check the car’s status.
A Stubborn Dodge Charger
DeFeo hints from the beginning that restarting this Dodge will take some effort. Lifting the hood reveals a Mopar 440 cubic inch V8 with an Edelbrock carburetor and accompanying cobwebs that confirm the likelihood of a disused vehicle. He gets to work removing the air cleaning and squeezing some gasoline into the carburetor bowl.
At start-up, the engine appears eager to turn over, but there’s no success. A bit more coaxing still proves fruitless, and DeFoe even cracks open the distributor to adjust the engine timing. But viewers only see puffs of smoke and the occasionally spinning radiator fan.
Patience Pays Off With This Muscle Car
By putting his diagnostic skills to the test, DeFeo presumes the problem lies with the battery and returns to the effort after a 20-minute recharge. And finally, the V8 roars to life, only to die again. But, after persistence familiar to those who work on classic cars, the 440 eventually stays running despite sputtering.
Before DeFeo sets out on a longer drive, he takes the Charger fastback for a quick neighborhood spin. Viewers get treated to a throaty exhaust noise and a report that the transmission still slips. A sticking throttle also adds to the car’s woes.
What’s Next For This 1967 Dodge Charger
DeFeo gives viewers a quick overview of this Dodge Charger, which got pieced together ten years ago from a flood-damaged vehicle. He’s got plans to get this Mopar ready for the next Hot Rod Power Tour, including rebuilding the transmission and getting the gauges and taillights up to snuff.
The most substantial task ahead involves fixing the damaged rear quarter panel on the driver’s side. But we learn this requires more than simple metalwork; the frame will need restoration to truly make the car roadworthy
