Road-Worthy Rescues: Reviving a Classic Wagon in the Black Hills

The Delta 88 Custom Cruiser is a vintage wagon from 1987, and we are reviving it for a pro tour-esque makeover.

The car has been sitting abandoned for 16 years and needs a lot of work, including fixing the engine and transmission.

We plan to upgrade the suspension, wheels, and tires, as well as restore the interior and fix any other issues.

The Black Hills in South Dakota provide the perfect backdrop for our scenic cruise, where we'll explore winding roads and beautiful landscapes.

Despite encountering challenges along the way, we are determined to bring this classic wagon back to its former glory.

How long has the Delta 88 Custom Cruiser been abandoned?

—The car has been sitting abandoned for 16 years.

What upgrades are you planning for the car?

—We plan to upgrade the suspension, wheels, tires, and restore the interior.

Where will the scenic cruise take place?

—The scenic cruise will take place in the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota.

What are some of the challenges encountered during the restoration?

—Some of the challenges include fixing the engine and transmission, as well as addressing any other issues that arise during the restoration process.

What is the overall goal of restoring the Delta 88?

—The goal is to bring this classic wagon back to its former glory and enjoy a scenic cruise through the Black Hills.

00:00We begin our restoration journey with a vintage Delta 88 Custom Cruiser from 1987.

04:17After getting the engine running, we embark on a test drive, encountering a knocking noise.

06:31Despite the engine trouble, we remain determined to revive the classic wagon.

08:52We explore options for finding a replacement engine for the Delta 88.

11:27With the new engine and transmission acquired, we begin the process of swapping them into the car.

13:51We receive a gift of a 1983 Oldsmobile 307 and 200 R4 overdrive transmission for the restoration.

14:57We dismantle the old engine and start preparing the new one for installation.

15:01We remove the old knock-off manifold and prepare to install the new one.