By Grant Cox – Photography By the Author
After 35 years of building custom, one-of-a-kind rides, Rick Plush of Haysville, Kansas, isn’t new to the craft, but he’s always eager for the next challenge. With a résumé that includes a 1966 Chevy Nova, a 1970 Chevelle, a 1941 Willys, and a 1969 Camaro, Rick’s projects have consistently showcased craftsmanship and personal growth. When it was time for his next build, he chose something classic with a touch of practicality: a 1962 Chevy Impala.
But make no mistake, this wasn’t going to be just a pretty cruiser. Rick envisioned a full-blown custom build that preserved the Impala’s original lines while providing a solid foundation, top-tier performance, and subtle, modern comforts for long hauls to car shows and cruises.
The project began with fabrication master Don Kreger of Elk River, Minneapolis. Known for his meticulous and innovative approach, Kreger took Rick’s vision and turned it into a showcase. Starting from scratch, he built a 2×3-inch tubing frame, concealing the wiring and positioning the exhaust high and tight for a clean, sleek underbody.
For the suspension, a 1979 Camaro Ridetech frontend was paired with matching rear components and an AccuAir air management system to give the car a perfect slammed stance when parked and a comfortable, controlled ride when cruising. Wilwood brakes all around gave the hefty Impala the stopping power it deserved, tucked neatly behind Boyd Coddington Junkyard Dog wheels. The wheels measure 17×8 in the front and 18×10 out back, wrapped in Nitto NT555 tires with 245/45-17 NT 555 and 295/45-18 rubber.
Rick aimed to stay true to the car’s original DNA at its core. The factory 409ci V-8, now sporting lots of chrome and polish, stayed the main feature but received some modern updates. The legendary W-engine was bored 0.030 over, equipped with Keith Black pistons and Scat Pro rods, and built with a Comp Cams setup with a deep, lopey idle. Adding a Holley Sniper EFI dual-four throttle body system and Edelbrock polished intake improved driveability, while a Sniper HyperSpark ignition ensured quick startups. A Billet Specialties Tru Trac front runner dressed up the front of the engine, making the engine bay as impressive as the body itself.
Speaking of which, bodywork duties were handed off to none other than Chris Carlson of Chris Carlson Hot Rods. Chris took the car down to bare metal, refined every panel into perfect shape, and sprayed it in a stunning PPG three-stage Viking Blood Red over black base. The result? A paintjob that glows like candy in the sunlight yet retains a deep richness in the shade. Chris also combined classic and custom elements by grafting a 1961 Bel Air Bubble Top onto the Impala shell. Subtle but notable body modifications include custom floorpans, smoothed hood hinges, a notched firewall, and new engine bay panels that beautifully frame the 409.
With the body and drivetrain finished, the Impala was trailered back to Haysville, where Dale England at Plum Crazy Kustoms took charge of the interior. The dash was handcrafted into a sleek, flat-face design that sets the tone for the cabin. Vintage USA gauges were installed within an engine-turned panel, wired through an American Autowire harness, and complemented by a Billet Specialties steering wheel mounted on a Flaming River column.
To beat the Kansas summer heat, a complete Vintage Air system was installed for modern climate control. Front seats from a 1993 Chevy Lumina were reworked and upholstered in supple Italia Beach leather, offering comfort without sacrificing style. The rear bench from the Impala had to be custom trimmed and rebuilt to fit the widened rear tubs that make room for Boyd Coddington’s wheels.
On the day Rick saw the finished Impala, emotions hit him like a tidal wave. This wasn’t just another showpiece; it was the result of a lifelong journey in car culture. It stood not only as a testament to his vision and the builder’s skill but also as a celebration of the history, memories, and bonds formed through custom car culture.
For Rick, this build wasn’t about trophies or magazine covers (though it certainly deserves both). It was about preserving a legacy, honoring the past while crafting something timeless, and enjoying every mile along the way. MR
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