New to GBF (1979 Chevy Malibu)

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Grantman

n00b
Jul 25, 2017
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8
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Hi everyone, I just liberated my grandmother's 1979 Chevy Malibu coupe from its garage down in Seaford, Delaware, where it sat for the last 22 years. It's the classic grandma's car: 3.3L V6, AT, AM radio, manual windows and locks - and only used to drive around town. The only option it has is AC. The car has only 56K miles on it, no body or frame rust, and no tears or cracks in the interior. There are some dents on the passenger's side but nothing serious. And it is green, inside and out.

I've always thought these A/G bodies are great platforms for upgrading (handy size, not too heavy, accepts many GM and aftermarket parts) -- no suprise to anyone on this forum :) I plan to replace the nice-running but weak V6 with an LS V8 backed by a 4L60/65/70E transmission. I will also put in a stronger rear-end, and I want to upgrade the suspension, brakes and wheels/tires. And yes, I plan to eventually repaint the car and redo the interior. Green is *not* my color.

I'm looking forward to learning from you all as I work through this project, and I plan to share any interesting experiences as I work on the car.
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O. D. Showtime

Comic Book Super Hero
Feb 6, 2009
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Regina Sask. Canada
Welcome to the site! That does look like a classic grandma's car and I think it's great that it was your grandma!

It does look to be in really nice shape. I like the plans for it....and although I'm not a "green color" fan either I think it would make an ultimate sleeper with that color. I'll be watching for any updates! Lots of great info here...
 
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Longroof79

Rocket Powered Basset Hound
G-Body of the Month
Oct 14, 2008
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Welcome to the forum. You scored well acquiring your grandma's car. It certainly looks like a solid car with good bones. Plus the fact that it was in the family.

I like your plans for it. The color isn't all that bad. I think it's livable, and like Kevin ^ said, it's a great sleeper color.
I remember a guy on Maliburacing that had a green Malibu coupe like yours with steelies and dog dish caps. I thought that was one badass sleeper.

Thanks for sharing the pics of your new ride...and thank you Grandma. :D
 
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vanrah

G-Body Guru
Apr 16, 2013
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Near Afton, Wisconsin
Welcome Grantman; You lucky devil! I would like to mention the OE paint, It is as hard stone & stones won't chip it very easily. Way more durable than new paint. So consider wet sanding it with very very fine paper & buffing. You may be surprised how good it will look. Good luck & have Fun, Ole' Bob
 
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Dinosport

G-Body Guru
Jul 20, 2015
557
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Ct
Sweeeeeeeet. Love the malibu's. Thats a great way to get one. Mine is a small block soon to be ls. So Ive done alot of research, Dont be afraid to ask.
 
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MrSony

Geezer
Nov 15, 2014
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Des Moines, Iowa
She's a beaut! Clean up those whitewalls with some bleach white and then tire dress em. It'd look like a whole new car.
 
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Jeff L

G-Body Guru
Nov 20, 2016
508
684
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Southern AZ
Welcome and that is a great car. What is it with grandmas and green cars? lol My friends grandma had a green 73 Nova with green checkerboard type interior if I remember right.

Hope your project goes well and keep us updated. Plenty of good help and info on here.
 
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Texas82GP

Just-a-worm
Apr 3, 2015
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Spring, Texas
Welcome to the site from Houston. Cool project. You are so well off starting with a clean, rust free example. I suggest a rolling restification so you can drive the car and stay interested.
 
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TURNA

Rocket Powered Basset Hound
Jul 24, 2009
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Socialist NY
OOOOOOO that's nice!!!
 
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airboatgreg

Comic Book Super Hero
Oct 2, 2016
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Welcome from SW Georgia
Just remember that "It ain't easy being green"
What a great start
 
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