I think there's a difference in classification between 'original' and
'original restored'.  Original is an unmolested car with only consumables
replaced - belts, oils, filters, tires and even starters, alternators &
water pumps.  Those parts do tend to wear out and need replacement.  Whether
it be a Malibu or SS if it's a 'restored original' it's restored (with parts
available) to 'original' condition, i.e. original Drivetrain, colors,
interior, tire-type and even correctly dated long ago replaced parts like
starters/alternators/water pumps.  A clone/tribute/whatever the politically
correct name used, is (to me) a personal custom built to something it wasn't
originally. 

My ex-GR8PMKN was a custom - built to something it wasn't originally. It
just happened to start out as a SS but could have just as easily started as
a Malibu and achieved the same results.  Had it started as a Malibu I
wouldn't have used SS badging however.  I agree, built what you want but I
do find it interesting that more and more signature lines are including "SS
(clone)".  It's like saying, "It's an SS (but not really)," or putting on a
resume, "High School Graduate (GED)."  Why even bother?  Either it is or it
isn't.  

Unfortunately, many 'cloned' Malibus aren't built to even SS specifications
- many times just badges - and that isn't even a clone in my opinion.  More
unfortunately, the clones that are built to SS specs are often sold by
unscrupulous people as real and get top dollar as real SS cars or someone
will buy a known clone and resell it as a real SS car to some unsuspecting
soul.

Dale McIntosh

-----Original Message-----
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
[mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Ron Sparks
Sent: Thursday, June 09, 2005 8:52 PM
To: 'The Chevelle Mailing List'
Subject: RE: [Chevelle-list] Where will it end??

He's something to ponder:

While restoring a "true" SS with repoduction parts imported from Asia (or
some other country), is is still an all original car? That goes for adding
headers and an intake. See it all the time on Ebay.I mean we're trying to
pass it off as something it really isn't since it is not an all original
car. 

Just poking a little fun..

Ron

-----Original Message-----
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
[mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Krister Meister
Sent: Wednesday, June 08, 2005 8:46 AM
To: The Chevelle Mailing List
Cc: Chevelle-list@chevelles.net; [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Subject: Re: [Chevelle-list] Where will it end??





I am 40, own a numbers '66 SS and wanted the real thing.  Personally there's
satisfaction knowing it's real, it has survived, it's not a copy, agree that
clones are a dime a dozen and satisfaction comes by being able to tell
someone it's real and not a "look alike".  I also agree with "it's your car,
money, time etc. do what ever you want" philosophy.  However, clones being
misrepresented are the real issue and it goes along with the fake document's
etc that are produced.  If its a clone, show it and sell it as a clone.  It
absolutely gets me when is see out right misrepresentation.

A true US built SS is in the VIN from '64 - '68 and yes there are measures
even here to make sure things have not been tampered with on any year.
After '68 the SS was on option and can only be proven with an original build
sheet, original invoice or protector plate (exception in '72 the VIN had
engine size and 454 was available only on for an SS).  Adding all the SS
options to a regular Malibu doesn't make it an SS - basic question comes
down to "what was it when it left the factory - not what it looks like
today.  Lets enjoy our cars and keep the hobby honest.



Just checking out eBay for stuff I need for my 69  and ran across someone
selling build sheets! It is not bad enogh that everyone  and their brother
is building clones, but this should be against the law. They  will even
''age'' it for you.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=455364623
9&category=10076


 I am curious, how many of you would consider  building a clone and what is
your age? I ask age because it seems like younger  guys who build clones see
nothing wrong with it. Personally I think it takes  away from original cars,
I mean you go to a show to see rare stuff and it takes  the fun out of it. I
would much rather look at a dozen Malibus and one SS  versus a dozen fakes.
I would bet there are more ''SS'' cars on the  road now then there ever were
built originally!!

 Sorry to vent, but I had to get this out of  my system.








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