Reviving a 1970 Dodge Charger

There’s something magical about bringing a classic car back to life, and Dylan McCool’s latest adventure is a prime example. Joined by Devo’s Garage and Mopar enthusiasts, Dylan took on the challenge of resurrecting a 1970 Dodge Charger that had been sitting idle for over 20 years. This story isn’t just about getting an old car running again—it’s about reconnecting a family with cherished memories and proving that with a little grease and determination, anything is possible.

The Backstory

This Charger has been in the same family since new, passed down from grandfather to son to grandson. While the car had undergone some work over the years, time and financial constraints left it sidelined. The team at Devo’s Garage reached out to Dylan, knowing his knack for Mopar classics, to help put this beauty back on the road.

“We’re not just here to make it run,” Dylan explained. “We’re here to make it drive—reliable enough for the family to enjoy once again.”

Assessing the Task

The Charger had solid bones but needed attention in critical areas:

Brakes: A mix of original and aftermarket parts, the braking system required a complete overhaul, including drums, hoses, and cylinders.

Fuel System: The gas tank, likely rusted from years of sitting with minimal fuel, had to be replaced to avoid clogging the lines.

Cooling System: The thermostat, radiator hoses, and cooling fluid were swapped to ensure the engine wouldn’t overheat.

Suspension: With time taking its toll on bushings and control arms, the team carefully evaluated what needed replacing.

Despite its age, the Charger’s floor pans, rockers, and frame rails were in surprisingly good condition. “The floors are absolutely perfect—no rust at all,” Dylan remarked with a grin.

Getting to Work

The team got down and dirty, tackling the list one task at a time:

Brakes: Removing the old drum brakes proved to be a challenge, with rounded-off bolts and stubborn fittings slowing progress. Persistence and a bit of creative problem-solving eventually paid off.

Fuel Tank: A new tank, straps, and sending unit from Year One ensured clean fuel delivery for the Charger’s 383 cubic-inch V8 engine.

Cooling System: A new thermostat and radiator hoses, along with a flush, prepped the car for its first fire-up in decades.

Bearings and Drums: Freshly packed bearings and resurfaced drums restored the car’s stopping power.

With each step, the team uncovered more of the Charger’s story. Decades-old repairs, like chicken wire and bondo in the quarter panels, spoke to the ingenuity of past owners.

The Moment of Truth

After hours of work, the Charger roared to life. Hearing the engine fire up was thrilling, but the real test lay ahead: Could it drive? The team carefully bled the brakes, adjusted the carburetor, and ensured the transmission was functioning.

Finally, with a fresh set of BF Goodrich tires mounted on 15-inch wheels, the Charger was ready to hit the road.

Driving the Charger was a surreal experience for everyone involved. The car handled better than expected, with smooth shifts and a surprisingly solid ride. The family’s memories came flooding back as they took turns behind the wheel.

“My grandmother used to carpool in this very Charger,” one family member reminisced. “It’s incredible to see it running again.”

Why It Matters

This restoration wasn’t just about fixing a car—it was about preserving history and creating new memories. For Dylan, it was a reminder of why he loves what he does. “How often can you say you found a 1970 Charger sitting in a garage, threw it together in two days, and drove it down the road?”

Stay up to date with Dylan’s latest projects and adventures on YouTube: @DylanMcCoolVideo