LEGIT
SAFETY FIRST The Nova features a 12-point cage with a funny carstyle bracing. The removable Grant GT wheel helps ease entry and exit, and the onboard fi e bottle system is ready and able just in case things get a little too toasty.
through the drivetrain is an ATI-beefed Turbo 400 transmission. The stout threespeed was treated to a reverse manual valve body, an ATI 4,500 stall converter, and an SFI-certified ATI flexplate. A Strange custom driveshaft articulates the tranny with the rearend. With the chassis and driveline all under control, Bendit decided it was time to focus his energies on fit and finish inside and out. First, the classic GM sheetmetal was expertly massaged by Jeff dwards and sprayed by Steve Lugana of Quality Auto
Body. Body mods are simple but effective, with the previously mentioned functional 4-inch Glastek hood and a firewall smoothed by Edwards rounding out the custom touches before a mile-deep House of Kolors Candy Apple Red hue was laid over a gold base. With paint this gorgeous, there’s really no need for gaudy graphics or other distractions, as the well-executed classic hue screams through a whisper. Moving inside, dual aluminum drag seats have been covered in grey tweed along with other trim
work compliments of Steve Bell Interiors. Race harnesses hold occupants in place, while a full complement of gauges manages data display duties. A Precision air shifter handles gear selection tasks and a quick-release Grant GT steering wheel eases cockpit entry. The neat and tidy Francis Johnson cage and tinwork provide a healthy dose of “race” look and function, while a Safecraft on-board fire suppression system has been added to douse the flames in the event this figuratively hot street/strip creation decides to get a bit literal.
www.rpm-mag.com | august 2015
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