Paul's Ride!

Paul's 72 Skylark Custom convertible

1970 SF code 455 (completely rebuilt)

TA 288-94H cam - Stage 1 valve springs - New rockers/shafts

New Buick HEI with MSD 6-AL and Accel 300+ plug wires

TH350 trans with TCI valvebody

12 bolt posi rear with 3.73 gears

oversized front and rear sway bars

Boxed rear control arms

New GS front/rear coil springs

15x7 Forged Cragar SS wheels - 235-60-15 (fronts)

15x8 Forged Cragar SS wheels - 275-60-15 (rears)

Bright Amber Metallic paint

Postons fiberglass Stage II hoodscoop (on steel Skylark hood)

Reupholstered seats in Gray and Black cloth

Drivers side pump-up lumbar support

Dual front dash speakers (Infinity)

Dual 5 1/4 Boston Acoustic speakers in rear armrests

Alpine AM/FM/CD with removable faceplate

1972 Buick Skylark Custom Convertible

I found the car on the internet for sale in Connecticut. Drove up there with my brother and (attempted to) drive it home the same day. Original 350 engine crapped out on the way home to Delaware (just outside on NYC) Had to leave the car on the Jersey Turnpike overnight until I could get a trailer to retrieve the car. Soon after, found a well outfitted parts car with a rebuilt 350. Parted out the parts car to fund building my car, used the 350 engine. As the build progressed, I found and installed the 12 bolt posi. In a moment of youthful exuberance, I got a little out of shape on a damp roadway and whacked a tree. Since I was getting the car fixed, I figured I would change the color. It was Yellow when I purchased it. I decided on Prowler Orange, but at the time Chrysler was not releasing the formula unless you had a VIN from a Prowler. They wanted to keep the color exclusive. Bright Amber Metallic was the closest I could get (and it is VERY close).

So now the body is done and the car is running well...for another few months. Then the 350 let go. OK...I always wanted a big block anyway..so here was my chance. found a local low miles 1970 455 and begin the rebuild. At this point, I have about 2000 miles on the rebuild and the car is just starting to loosen up...I hope to get it to the track this fall. I have to see 13's or I am gonna be angry! I still plan on getting a 2004R trans (someday) and an aluminum intake and iron stage 1 heads.

Paul W. Manuel
pwm72@comcast.net
Newark, DE
72 Skylark Convertible (Finally! 455 powered)