Take a look at this awkward moment, 1966 Chevelle Barn Find Gone Bad, Car gets impounded!
In the world of classic car enthusiasts, every purchase comes with a story, but some tales unfold in unexpected and intriguing ways. Mark Meldrum, from Meldrum’s Monster Garage, recently shared an enthralling account of his experience with a 1966 Chevelle that took an unexpected turn from excitement to investigation.
The story begins with Mark and Uncle Larry stumbling upon the vintage beauty in Vermilion, Ohio. The 1966 Chevelle sparked immediate interest, leading to its acquisition. Little did they know, however, that this purchase would set off a chain of events that would keep the car under investigation for six weeks.
The twist in the narrative came to light when Mark meticulously compared the VIN number on the title to the one on the actual car. A discrepancy emerged – a nine in the middle of the serial number where there should have been a one. This irregularity traced back to a mistake made on the title during a transfer back in 1993. Undeterred by the mix-up, Mark took the honest route, disclosing the issue to the title bureau.
The title bureau directed Mark to the State Highway Patrol for a thorough inspection. The investigation uncovered more than just a numerical mismatch. Behind the VIN tag, there was evidence of red paint, contradicting the car’s recorded dark blue color. The State Highway Patrol, suspecting foul play, impounded the car for further scrutiny.
For six weeks, the fate of Mark’s Chevelle hung in the balance. The investigation, burdened by a high caseload, delayed the resolution. However, perseverance and honesty prevailed, and the car was eventually released back to Mark. The VIN, title, and the car itself were finally in sync.
What made this saga even more captivating was the backstory uncovered during the investigation. The trooper, dedicated to resolving the case, traced the ownership history back to the second owner. This owner, a true car fanatic, had driven the Chevelle from Ohio to the Grand Canyon and back in its early days. The trooper learned that, in the 70s, the second owner had painted the car red, taken off the VIN tag, and swapped the original motor for one from a ’69 Camaro.
Mark’s excitement to have the Chevelle back in his garage was palpable. He wasted no time in upgrading the vintage gem with new tires and steel wheels. Despite the approaching winter, Mark envisions showcasing the car in upcoming videos as it evolves throughout the year.
In the end, what seemed like a simple barn find unfolded into a compelling tale of honesty, perseverance, and a deep appreciation for the history of a classic car. Mark Meldrum’s 1966 Chevelle has not only found its way back into his possession but has also become a symbol of resilience and redemption in the world of vintage automobiles.
