Chevy Chevelle: Enthusiasts Tell Their Stories

Welcome back to, ‘Enthusiasts Tell Their Stories.’ Today, we’re thrilled to showcase Ryan ‘Ryno’ Lieberman’s latest creation a 1970 Chevy Chevelle. As you may recall, we previously featured all three of his iconic GM classics, each proudly displaying the mark of OPGI sponsorship. Ryno, a devoted car enthusiast and owner of Ryno Built Rods and Custom, continues to drive forward with his passion, not only with OPGI-sponsored vehicles but other really cool projects.

You might recall Ryno’s previous collaborations with OPGI, where his skill and commitment to perfection were unmistakable in the beautifully restored 1962 Cadillac ‘Golden Goddess’ and the sweet 1964 El Camino he completed with his son. Today, we’re thrilled to dive into Ryno’s latest OPGI-sponsored masterpiece: a stunning 1970 Chevelle commissioned by Zach Hightower, of Wellington, Texas.

From disassembly at various shops to prolonged storage, the Chevelle faced its share of obstacles. Parts collected and scattered over the years further complicated the restoration process. However, fortune smiled upon Zach when he discovered Ryno through a mutual friend. “The journey of this Chevelle was far from easy. It encountered numerous challenges that tested both patience and perseverance,” Ryno said. With Ryno’s expertise, the Chevelle’s restoration journey found renewed momentum and direction.

Following an outstanding rendering by Joel Nelson, the 1970 Chevy Chevelle’s body received expert painting from Ballard Paint who ensured authenticity with the Cranberry Red paint and classic black stripes. Under Ryno’s skilled hands, the stripped shell underwent unexpected modifications. With careful attention, every component was assembled after painting. Zach originally aimed for a potent 427 LS engine with Dart block and heads, with a 4.5L Whipple supercharger. However, Ryno advised against it due to space limitations. Consequently, a swift adjustment to a 2.9L was made, complemented by a TREMEC T56 6-speed transmission and a fully built Ford 9-inch from Quick Performance.

Original Parts Group played a key role in the process. Among the top-quality features, RESTOPARTS® components like Sail Panel Boards, smooth Seat Foam, chrome-plated Window Crank Handles, and a urethane-molded Dash Pad played a vital role in achieving restoration excellence. Discover more of OPGI’s contributions below.

1968-72 GM A-Body Armrest Base and Pad Kit Part#AK16

1968-72 Chevelle Coupe Inner Brace Set Part# CH28131

1968-70 A-Body Coupe Mirror Kit Part# CH33193

1968-70 Chevelle, 68 BOP/70 Monte Carlo Dome Light Kit Part# CHV452

1970 Chevy Chevelle Tail Lamp Lenses Part#CH26466

1970-72 Rear Armrest Panels Part# KNK0053

1968-72 A-Body Seat Piping Part# CHV0259

Inside, Ryno revamped the seats while Jeffery Truillo adorned the interior with luxurious black leather and suede upholstery. Upgrades included a Vintage Air climate control unit, an Ididit steering column featuring an 18″ Billet Specialties wheel, Hydro wheels wrapped in Nitto NT555 G2 tires, and 14” Wilwood brakes, complemented by a Ridetech roll cage for added safety. Additionally, Ryno installed an MB Quart 7” touchscreen head unit and speaker system, along with two Hifonics 10” subwoofers and amplifiers for optimal entertainment. After assembly, the Chevelle returned to Ballard Paint for final touch-ups on the front sheet metal.

Before making its grand debut at SEMA 2023 in Las Vegas at the MB Quart booth Ryno faced last-minute trouble getting the Chevelle to run. Thanks to Tuned by JP’s expertise, it started just in the nick of time. Since its debut, the Chevelle has made appearances at various events, including the Goodguys Rod and, more recently, the Daryl Starbird Tulsa show where it was in the running for the Fine Nine award, it ended up scoring a class win for Street Machine. Ryno emphasizes, “Year after year, project after project, OPGI consistently provides the best parts and customer service, enabling me to meet the high standards my clients and I demand.”

Embark on your Chevy Chevelle restoration journey with Original Parts Group by requesting your 2024 copy of OPGI’s Chevelle Restoration and Performance parts catalog.