Over $24,000 invested in this classic. Always a head turner. Great runner.

1966 Plymouth Barracuda Description

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VEHICLE MODEL BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Source Wikipedia:

ThePlymouth Barracudais a two-doorpony carmanufactured byPlymouthfrom 1964 to 1974.

The first-generation Barracuda, ahardtopfastback, was based on theA-bodyplatform (shared with theValiant). The first generation car featured distinctive wraparound back glass and was marketed from 1964 to 1966.

For 1966, the Barracuda received new tail lamps, new front sheet metal, and a new instrument panel. The latter had room for oil pressure and tachometer gauges on models so equipped. The 1966 front sheet metal which, except for the grille, was shared with the Valiant, and gave a more rectilinear contour to the fenders. Deluxe models featured fender-top turn signal indicators with a stylized fin motif. The bumpers were larger, and the grille featured a strong grid theme.

Although the first Barracudas were heavily based on the contemporary Valiants, Plymouth wanted them perceived as distinct models. Consequently, the "Valiant" chrome script that appeared on the ​19641⁄2model's trunk lid was phased out at the end of the 1965 model year in the U.S. market, and the large stylized "V" trim above the deck lid was changed to a unique Barracuda fish logo for 1966,[

Source Hemmings:

Contrary to what muscle car enthusiasts would have you believe, there are still a select number of Chrysler products that anyone can obtain with relative ease. One such vehicle is the first-generation Plymouth Barracuda. Aimed directly at the youth market and its craving for affordable, stylish speed, the Barracuda actually went to market 16 days prior to its main competition: Ford’s Mustang. Built on the Valiant platform, it was offered as a hardtop with a sporty fastback body style, featuring perhaps the largest rear window ever molded. History has since proven the Mustang to be far more popular, which is good news today–it makes this early compact performance car affordable for almost anyone looking for a sporting option.

The new Barracuda, part of the Valiant line, was offered in only one body style through the 1966 model year; the 106-inch wheelbase remained unchanged throughout the run. Though visual updates during the first two model years were minimal, ’66 models stand out due to their egg crate grilles, which replaced fine horizontal units featuring faux Lucas fog lamps (actually turn signals) and a chrome horizontal bar. Also, 1966 models feature slightly reworked fenders and quarter panels, making interchangeability with earlier versions nearly impossible.

Source: Owner

This vehicle was first registered in the State of Oregon, USA. From there it relocated to the State of Arkansas, where it lived until 1991. In 1991, it was sold to a new owner in Minnesota. Ownership transferred again while in Minnesota. In 2011, it was purchased by its current owner who after taking possession, drove it cross country to Michigan where it currently lives.

Upon its arrival in Michigan, a decision was made to re-power this classic and replace the 225 cubic inch slant six with a small block V-8. What follows is a description of the upgrades made to this vehicle.

ENGINE

Upgraded to a 1978 360 LA 360 cubic inch block. LA was the predecessors to Magnum block, small block V-8. The engine block was fitted with E58 heads after being degreased and hot tanked. Cylinders were bored .030 over, the mains were align and honed and the crank ground .010 under including mains and rods.

The engine was fitted with a new Mopar oil pan, Mopar high performance oil pump, Eagle SIR forged I-beam rods, and Keith Black KB107 flat top hyper flat-top pistons. Chrome moly rings, full floating wrist pins, new Durabond cam bearings, new Mopar Purple cam shaft, 280/280 duration, 480/480 lift, new Mopar lifters, and new Mopar push rods. ThemE58 heads were cut for 2.02 intake valves while retaining the stock 160 exhaust valves. New Mopar rocker shafts, rocker arms, spacers and valve springs with retainers and locks from Comp Cams completed the block.

An Edlebrock Performer RPM intake manifold, Edlebrock 650 four barrel carburetor, Doug’s headers, Durral radiator fan, and Champion aluminum radiator completed the engine. The motor has been measured at a static compression of 9.7/1 and is very happy when 93 octane gas is feed through its four barrel carburetor.

TRANSMISSION

The Mopar A-833 4 speed transmission features new shift levers, new shift rods, new Hurst shifter, new Hurst shift handle, new throw out bearing, new pilot bearing, new flywheel, new McCloud clutch, a new zbar and bushings,

The Rear end is an 8 3/4 unit, with a 489 case, 3:91 posi-traction rear end.

SUSPENSION

The rear suspension was enhanced with the addition of a leaf to the spring packs, and new shocks.

The front suspension was enhanced with new big block torsion bars (.904 diameter), new upper and lower ball joints, a Hellwig sway bar, and shocks.

BRAKES

In October, 2019, a completely new braking system was installed. The system replacement included new master cylinder, wheel cylinders, hard and soft lines, new drums (front), rear drums cut, and new brake shoes and all hardware on all four corners.

WHEELS

The New American Classic 14" wheels and tires show minimal wear with less than 1,000 miles to date.

INTERIOR

The Interior in very good condition, and features new carpets in the passenger compartment plus aftermarket floor mats, front and rear. The front mats feature Barracuda embroidery. The original carpet is in place within cargo area. The dashboard pad is not cracked or weathered and shows like new. All gauges function. Gas gauge is non-linear. The headliner is great.

ELECTRICAL

All lights function correctly, exterior and interior. The original AM band radio is in place but not functional.

BODY

This car is 99% rust free. Paint is estimated to be 30 years old and very presentable. Original base color is YY1. Weather stripping, door jams are all pliable and functional. Glass is good. No cracks or chips.

Actual mileage is not certified. Over $24,000 invested.