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When I was 18 years old, I was keeping my eye out for a second generation Barracuda. On my way home from a construction job in Ojai California, I spotted the grille of a 69 notchback on the side of a house between some trees. The next day I went back to the house and met Barbabra Jones, the original owner, who told me all about the car that was not for sale. This car had sentimental value since her husband Robert, special ordered the car a few years before he suddenly passed away. Barbara shared many memories about the car, which included street racing, burnouts, and seeing her kids grow up to even drive and race her car themselves when they were in high school. After continuing to visit and talk to her about the car, she finally realized my passion for this particular mopar. Barbara sold me the car after promising to restore it to original condition. It was only 1 of 53 with a factory big block, 4 speed, formula S package made it that much sweeter. I drove the car as is for a couple of months before starting the restoration process, which I had no idea what it would entail. 18 years old, no shop, no money, little experience, but a hunger for knowledge and a promise i knew I had to keep. I put in numerous hours restoring this car on my own, taking apart every single nut and bolt, all while keeping Barbara updated. I learned so much from articles, magazines, videos, and forums like this one. I have met many people along the process who i am excited to show my work to, but no one more important than Barbara who has not seen the car like-new condition in decades. 11 years later, I am reaching the end of this project with only a few finishing touches. Within the near future, I will reveal the car to the original owner so she could see it as it once was.
