Non SS 1964 Impala

[Bob Ellis]

I decided that I have too many 1964 Impala SSs. So, I converted an SS to a Standard Impala.

First step, remove the SS side trim.

[Bob Ellis]

I used 0.010" x 0.030" Evergreen Styrene to make non SS side trim. I also decided skirts would be a nice touch. Internet photos gave me an idea about style. There were a couple. here is one type.

[Bob Ellis]

Since the AMT 64 Impala has molded in console, the option of fixing the floor meant removing it. I used a 1958 interior floor and bench seat to make the non SS interior. 1958s are common frame cars with the 64 anyway. I decided tuck and roll as this is a lowrider.

[slusher]

Off to a strong start.

[Wonderbread Kustomz]

Looks great so far ... Nice work on the interior as well...

[Bob Ellis]

Thanks James. The flat floor interior AMT '58 Impala saved me. Even the Revells have molded in consoles.

Hopefully, Dig Derange will make a non SS trim etch set by next year. If I did another of this car, I would use his set and save time.

[Wonderbread Kustomz]

Honestly, I prefer the AMT 64 over the Revell kit... For a more realistic chassis, I've used the 62 Bel Air undercarriage and suspension parts...

[montecarlo1980]

Great start off to the build Bob. I've always liked the look of the standard Impala side trim compared to the SS trim. Excellent work on those skirts those fit the best on that style Imp. This is going to be a great build!

[Tom Geiger]

Even the Revells have molded in consoles.

And why did they do that. Surely a console is a large enough piece to mold separately. That would give a modeler the option of using the console or not. Heck, the model I'm working on now has tiny microscopic pieces that should've been molded in detail!

Great work on the conversion.

[Byron5150]

Looking amazing so far, and nice conversion!

[H.A.K]

Boby B, Love the trim. This is going to be real kool homie.

[Bob Ellis]

Tom, I think the problem all comes back to the fact an AMT '64 Impala was designed as a promo model. I am sure they wanted production as fast as possible back in the Fall of '63. Molding a console in place would have saved time.

[Tom Geiger]

Tom, I think the problem all comes back to the fact an AMT '64 Impala was designed as a promo model. I am sure they wanted production as fast as possible back in the Fall of '63. Molding a console in place would have saved time.

You are right for the original AMT kit. Note that I commented on the comment that " Even the Revells have molded in consoles" . These are modern era kits done for enthusiasts. They should've done the console separate in these.

[Bob Ellis]

Got some primer on the body and worked parts. Helps me see what is good and bad.

I have Sovereign wheels on the right and something else on the right.

[Bob Ellis]

I am dropping the Revell parts pack 283 in this Impala. I had to split the metal axle rod because I couldn't put a hole through the engine. Also had to make an engine support.

[slusher]

Very nice progress and engine..

[66belair]

That's some good work you got going,nice to see a non SS car being built.

[charlie8575]

Nice work so far, Bob. Gonna try for a stock one next?

Charlie Larkin

[Bob Ellis]

Charlie, maybe next year on a totally stock one. There is a guy who might produce the photo etch set for the standard Impala next year.

[carrucha]

Nice work so far. The Model Car Garage photo etch set for the AMT 1964 Impala has the standard Impala emblems that you need.

[Bob Ellis]

carrucha, you are correct. It has 283 emblems and a lot more neat stuff too.

[1 bad55 stan]

Looking good!

[Bob Ellis]

I like red. Without Bare Metal Foil, the trim is a bit lost, but it is there.

I practiced drilling out some head light. A 7/16" drill twisted by had can open the holes followed by an Xacto knife. Also opened the turn signal lights for a lighting kit that I have.

[slusher]

Looking really good Bob, nice progress...

[Modlbldr]

That is looking great. Nice to see a non SS built. You've done a nice job.

Later-