Will Webber, Level 3 Auto Collision Technology/Exeter junior is restoring his uncle's classic car, 1964 Chevy Impala SS (Super Sport), as part of his senior project. The vehicle has a storied past that once graced the Hot Rod Power Tour in 2013. The week-long road trip showcased muscle cars, customs, and hot rods across America's back roads, and now, the student’s goal is to return the car to its former glory.
“My goal is to get it looking as good as it did when it was featured on the show 12 years ago,” he shared. Once restored, the car will shine at car shows and serve as a weekend cruiser for his uncle. With a smile, Will added, “Hopefully, he will let me borrow it for prom.”
When the project began, the car presented significant challenges, including extensive rust and body filler that masked previous issues rather than correcting them. “There were lots and lots of rust and body filler—inches of it,” he explained. “Whoever repaired the car previously didn’t correct the problem; they just covered it up. I am repairing it correctly by welding metal patch panels and then smoothing over with body filler. This repair will last for years.”
The car retains its original motor, but the original 4-speed manual transmission was replaced with a 3-speed Powerglide. For now, the clutch pedal rests beneath the carpet, ready for a potential return to the 4-speed configuration. Once the structural repairs are complete, he will prepare the car with a fresh coat of vibrant purple paint on the body of the car and cream on the roof. All the chrome trim—one of the restoration’s most costly elements.
Restoring the car is more than just a project; it’s a fulfillment of a childhood passion. “It is something I’ve wanted to do since I was a kid, so why not go to school for it? I’d much rather be at BCTC because I’m doing something I enjoy,” Will said. His dedication to auto collision work has inspired him to pursue a co-op position at an auto collision shop and continue repairing cars after high school.
Through this project, Will is not only preserving a piece of family history but also building the foundation for a successful career in the automotive industry. With his skill, passion, and education at BCTC, he’s well on his way to achieving his dreams.