Rutterz Rodz Recreates a High School Memory in the form of a 1936 Chevy Sedan
Recreating a high school ride decades later when time and money allow is a common nostalgic trip down memory lane, with some events you can discuss, others you’d rather not. For Joe Robinette, though, he wanted another 1936 Chevy sedan because he and his wife Dana went to their prom in one.
Just because you can recreate a nearly 90-year-old high school ride doesn’t mean you should. Joe knew that when he approached Rutterz Rodz, initially just to upgrade the sedan’s suspension and drivetrain. After seeing the shop’s work, he decided to go all-in on the build, and the result is a classy modern street rod that respects the original car’s vibe.
Finding a restorable Stanadrd model 1936 Chevy sedan isn’t as easy as locating a suitable ’69 Camaro or ’55 Chevy. Joe found his in Denver, where the original owner lived. Oh, and the car was once used in a movie – “All the Pretty Horses.”
The Rutterz crew performed its usual metal magic on the body, tightening gaps, recessing the firewall, fitting fenders without welt lines, creating custom inner fenders, and installing rear wheel tubs. Extensive metal work was also done on the hood, hood sides, and grille area before the car was covered in its deep BASF Antimatter Blue finish.
The front and rear lights were updated with modern bulbs and integrated turn signals. The driver’s side taillight (only one was required in those days) was upgraded with LEDs while a duplicate for the passenger side was created using a one-off stand from Greening Auto and an original housing.
Underneath, a Progressive Automotive chassis was used to update the driving experience. It has an independent front suspension, rack-and-pinion steering, and a four-bar coil-over rear suspension with a 9-inch rearend and 3.50 gears. Wilwood discs are employed on all four corners, while custom Wheelsmith artillery wheels (17×7 in front, 18×8 in the rear) sport original ’36 Chevy hubcaps mounted with custom adapters.
Modern power comes from a 376c.i. Chevy Performance LT1 V8 that produces 455 horsepower. A custom LS Holley fuel injection system was adapted to fit the engine. Exhaust gases depart through a custom exhaust with Flowmaster mufflers. A GM 8L90 automatic transmission handles the gear changing chores.
The interior is courtesy of Built by Ricky in Kellyton, Alabama, with leather-covered, custom-built seats that honor the design of the originals. The original dash is outfitted with Classic Instruments gauges and a reworked Sparc Industries steering wheel topping a Flaming River tilt column.
With more refinement, comfort, and power than ever, Joe can now look forward to creating many new memories in this standout 1936 Chevy sedan.
Photos: John Jackson, Damon Lee
