El Camino Parts: Unique Parts for the Unique Car by Glady Reign

Among all the vehicles that graced automotive history, the Chevrolet El Camino was one of those types that were unique in character. It did not conform to what was the standard in terms of automobile aesthetics. It managed to stir the nest, so to speak, with its unusual built and distinctive style. In so doing, its individuality managed to stand out among its contemporaries to secure a loyal market following.

The Chevrolet El Camino was actually a small pick-up truck, but it was built akin to a hybrid of the passenger car and a pick-up truck. It utilized a passenger car chassis, but with a big pick-up truck bed in its back area. It was in 1959 when the El Camino’s introduction to the industry was purely to rival the success of the Ford Ranchero. Unfortunately, unlike its supposed competitor, the El Camino did not find much support from consumers. Hence, after only two years after its release, Chevrolet resolved to discontinue its franchise. Another four years later and Chevrolet had a change of heart to revive the El Camino, this time under the new Chevrolet Chevelle platform. Under the Chevelle’s lead, the El Camino was able to reinvent its system in a number of generations. This time, the market was more than willing to take on the Chevrolet El Camino’s individuality, strengthened by the uniquely engineered El Camino Parts.

From the years 1964 to 1987, the automotive industry found itself as witness to the El Camino’s transformations, both on the exterior aspects and the parts and devices used in its assembly. From 1965 to 1966, the El Camino received a superior boost in performance with the addition of notable El Camino Parts. These were two powerful engine options â€" the performance versions of 327 engine and 396 engine, respectively. Then, 1967 arrived and brought about the disc brakes, Turbo 4003 speed transmission, and the collapsible steering column. Conversely, the 3rd generation El Camino introduced in 1968 based itself on the 116 inch wheelbase platform utilized by Chevelle. It was introduced with a longer hood, v-shaped rear side windows, a recessed rear window, and a stylish front end. Meanwhile, 1970 introduced a high performance Super Sport SS396 version, as well as a limited offer of one of Chevrolet’s most powerful engines, the LS6 454 in3 engine which was rated at 450 hp and 500 ft lbs of torque. In 1973, the fourth generation of El Camino was again redesigned. The front end still incorporated the single-unit headlights while the wraparound signal lamps were dropped. The year 1976 generated a front end restyling with quad stacked headlights. Launched in 1978, the 5th generation El Camino came out smaller and in a more sharp-edged style. V6 engines were also available for the first time, and from 1982 through 1984, diesel engines were introduced.

The El Camino ceased its production in 1987, even with a healthy market backing. It did not, however, mar the value of El Camino, as it is still considered as one of those great vintage cars with its own set of specialized El Camino Parts.

About the Author

Glady Reign is a 32 year old is a consultant for an automotive firm based in Detroit, Mi. she is a native of the motor city and grew up around cars hence her expertise in the automotive field.