Fletch's Own Imperial LeBaron Rebuild: Classic Restos - Series 48

With Classic Restos, we usually find Fletch travelling vast distances to see classic cars and discover the owner's story of where they got the car, its history, and what they have done with it since. Well, this time, Fletch tells the story of his own Chrysler Imperial LeBaron, purchased on one of his frequent trips to the USA - back in 2019. 

Fletch initially looked at the car back in 2018 but was not taken by it and passed up the opportunity to purchase. Instead, he acquired a 1974 Dodge Monaco that he had eyed off for a couple of years but was not for sale. However, this time Fletch got his way. 

2019 was Fletch's last trip to see Murray in Ohio, and this time the Imperial LeBaron was inside a shed where it took on a new light. Fletch was attracted to the high-end model with its many features in absolutely original condition. The LeBaron was not without its issues, an engine rebuild being just one. Once committed to the purchase, Fletch's attitude was that he would do whatever it took to save the car. 

Fletch takes us through the initial restoration process and discovers several confronting issues. He then takes his Chrylser 440 big block to his friends at the Goulburn Engine Centre. Where Andy and Kevin dismantle the seized engine to discover just what type of condition it is in, while Fletch is on hand to record the entire process. It's technical, but you see the enjoyment that Fletch and his colleagues have during this discovery. They report the block is in pretty good condition. Now the rebuild process steps up, with more than a few laughs along the way.