Story by Thomas Andews Photography by: Bob McJannett
1969 Chevelle SS
W
hen we went to Reaboro, Ontario, to shoot Chris Graham’s 1991 Buick Roadmaster Wagon (PIM April 2006), we were delighted to find not one, but two show-quality vehicles parked in the garage. In seconds, it was decided that we would shoot both of them. In addition to their rolling billboard Buick, designed to
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show off the abilities of their business “The Airbrush Shop,” Chris and his wife Susan also own their award-winning 1969 Chevelle SS. In fact, the Chevelle is something of a staple in their life. Chris bought the Chevelle from his best friend Stewart, who was the original owner, and has owned it for more than 25 years. During that time, they have rebuilt it numerous times. For the last rebuild, Chris did a complete frame-off restoration, built a 383 stroker motor that puts out 450+ hp, and meticulously went over every part to bring it to show quality. Under the hood, the firewall has been cleaned up and smoothed, wiring is all hidden and the greatlooking custom engine cover is another tribute to Chris’ skill. Chris builds his own engines and does all the mechanical work. Needless to say, being an artist and painter, he is responsible for all the paint and graphics you see on the Chevelle. Instead of the usual SS stripes, Chris designed his own unique 383 emblems and the airbrush graphics seen on the car.
Just like the Buick, this Chevelle is no trailer queen. In addition to attending local shows and cruise nights, the Chevelle has been on the Hot Rod Magazine Power Tour twice, in both 2002 and 2003. On the 2002 tour, it earned a GM Performance Pick, and Chris was interviewed for Hot Rod TV. But the highlight was when his Chevelle was chosen to be the cover car for Hot Rod Magazine’s Power Tour issue in October 2002. Awards, there have been many. Here are just a few whose hardware is gracing their award shelves: Top 20 pick four years in a row at GM Autofest; Class Champion, Performance World 2003; Best Engine, Gold Choice Runner-up Car Craft Nationals Columbus Ohio 2003; Top 10 Muscle Car, Car Craft Nationals Columbus Ohio 2003; The House of Kolor, Prestigious Painter award in both 2001 and 2004. The first one was for the Chevelle, the second for a dune buggy that Chris had painted. Never one to rest on his laurels, Chris is currently finishing up a 1962 Ford Galaxy 500 two-door hardtop for Susan and turning a 1957 Chevrolet 210 into another Airbrush Shop work of art. If you are looking for some pinstriping, graphics, custom fabrication or even a complete restoration you may want to give The Airbrush Shop a call. You know that they do great work.