Dave Mandato’s 1966 Dodge Charger
Well it all started at a local classic car show. I told my wife I would like to
get a classic car to restore and it would have to be a MOPAR. I had owned and
raced 3 MOPARS in my younger years and it was the only choice to make. I then
had to pick a particular MOPAR. I always liked the 1966 Charger so I began
looking for my charger on E-Bay. When, not finding a local car, I purchased a 1966
Charger with a 361 from Kentucky and had it shipped here.
It wasn’t in as good a shape as I thought it was but it did have a good paint
job. I could have done a lot worse. So, I guess I did what everyone else does,
and started replacing and fixing everything on the car. I like to do as much of
the work myself. It has been about a year and a half now and it is now a 440
Charger. It’s not finished yet, and I’m not sure it ever will be. My want list
for my Charger never ends. I check off one item and add two more. I think this
is true for most classic car owners.
The best part is I met the right people and got to join the “Cowtown MOPAR
Club”. Where would I be without the help and advise of by fellow club members,
especially Gary Brandshaw, Mike Miller, Bob Spence, Gene Quick, Less Adams and ex
“66” Charger owner Dan Robinson. Less Adams built my 440 and Mike Miller did my
transmission.
I’ve learned a lot from these guys and from many other club members, and still
have a lot to learn. It’s great everyone is so willing to share this great
wealth of MOPAR knowledge. I am proud that my Charger is “Car of the Month” and
hope everyone else enjoys seeing it.
Dave