He's a big guy for sure. I worked in body structures at Boeing years ago and for whatever reason they put the biggest guys on the nose section which was small when not connected to the rest of the airplane?
Discovered yesterday... this is simply the most compelling car channel on earth. Never have I ever learned more about sparkilators, fuel-make-happeners and digical things in such a short time. Just genius.
VGG was my motivation 5 years ago to tackle the revival of my pontiac grandville. When I got it it had not ran for 22 years. I used all of the methods that I saw watching VGG. I've learned a ton from watching and would have never attempted anything had it not been for VGG. THANK YOU Derrick for the outstanding information and entertainment that you provide.
new favorite line "this thing might be more hopped up than a bunny farm." Derek, you're truly a national treasure, please never change, this world needs yah.
My wife just bought a 66 Catalina! Dealership said “we dropped 2k off because we can’t get it running again. It needs towed.” Towed it .3 miles home, charged the battery, hooked the choke back up, fired right up! First thing on my list is an exhaust so we don’t die driving it!
Old Derek is so laid back and down to earth...started on the old tube and got so big he got motortrend...he's made it and yet he still pumps out the old UA-cam for us....my favorite channel hands down....I don't know anyone that loves cars that doesn't know about a guy that does the thing....I've never met the man in person but he makes me (all of us) feel like we've been friends for years.....thanks buddy
Even with a bum hoof a guy is still out there showing us how it is done. I've got a lot of respect for ya feller, Thank you for the good times, and giving us the inspiration to get out in the shop.
I love the way the fire extinguisher is leaning against the fuel jug. That way when it bursts into flames, the extinguisher will over heat and when the safety disk bursts, the contents will automatically discharge. Meanwhile, you can be running like Hell the other way. PERFECT!
She came back to life with each passing mile down the road. I think she likes you Derick. Thank you, your videos are always a pleasure to watch my friend.
Thanks to VGG, Derek and his family for the endless hours of fun, family entertainment, not to mention how good of a mechanic he is... his humor is the absolute best!
You have no idea how many people have joy in watching your channel. I had a 1970 Pontiac Catalina. 400 with no exhaust and sold it that way Now wishing I had it stored somewhere. Thanks for the memories
Been around since original garage days man, learnt tons from you..your an inspiration to us all Derek thanks for all you do brother LETS GOOO famous guy left a reply! Lol
Can’t express enough how much I love these revivals if not even for the content just the fact these cars are being brought back to a running condition and saved and sent on to the next to continue its life and pulled from their potential grave! Thank you Derek
There's a trick that some GM Mechanics taught me back in the 70's for changing the sparkilators on the A/C compressor side of GM vehicles. Jack that side of the car up via the frame until the tire is just barely touching the ground, then use a long extension (36 to 48" long) and a wobble socket to go over the top of the tire, above the upper control arm, thru the black rubber splash pad to get to the sparkilators. Works like a charm. My old boss at Goodyear couldn't figure out why I put an Impala on the lift todo a tune up until he saw me change the plugs that way. The old guy about pooped his pants when I changed the plugs in about 5 minutes on that side.
My wife's '73 Ventura Custom was almost the same, except it was the rear plug on passenger side, took the front wheel off and hole sawed a 3" hole in the rear of the steel wheel tub and reached in with an extension and a socket, made a rubber flap and screwed it to the hole. Years of having tune ups done and no one ever changed that plug and they charged her for 8 plugs. Then she married me and she got a real tune up.
My first car was a white w/white vinyl top 1973 Pontiac Catalina! It had a 400 with a 2 bbl carb. Great car! Unfortunately I live in Michigan so she was pretty rusty when I got her in 1980. Great job on this revival and thanks for the memories!
I live in the UK and have always loved old American Muscle cars, watching VGG just makes me love them even more especially because I doubt I'll ever actually own one. I'm so glad you go out of your way to keep such a unique era of cars alive and running.
As a big classic Pontiac fan, I love seeing this one on the road again! She's a sweet car that just needs a little love. Glad it's going to a new home!
I absolutelymlove these revival/rescue episodes! The funniest part is that a guy has a ramp truck and could easily avoid all of the time constraints and risks of driving a janky old rig, but still does it old school just for us to enjoy.
You literally inspired me to start my own project here in Australia 😂, for YEARS ( a good 25? Maybe ) I've been driving past a farm that has a few cars parked in a row, few looked abit worse for wear, others where okish and some had just become a pile of rot, after watching one of you're revival videos I thought bugger it I'm going to pull in and see what that's all about one day, about a week later I saw the old fella out on his tractor so hit the skids and pulled in and waved him down, got to chattin with him ( decent old fella that liked to have abit of a chin wag ) and we shuffled over to the abandoned car lot, I had my "peepers" as you call it 😂 on 1 car, a 72' Holden HQ Statesman De Ville, I asked if he'd be interested in parting with it and he said sure chuck him an offer, I said $2000 and he came back and said "if you can get it gone today you can have it for $1000, so raced home, grabbed a mates tilt tray and some cash and went back, he was waiting there ( had slashed the grass around it for me ) and we got to talking again while loading up ( I hadn't even looked in the car yet just a quick look on the outside, very very minimal rust which had me interested) he said it used to belong to his son, his resin had blown up the original V8 that was in it ( think it was a 308, could or been a 350 ) and had put in a new motor an trans but then became sick and sadly passed away, chat for a good 40min more and got it home where ( under your instructions) checked out the boot first, and shit.... a set of heads.. aa fuel mixer... a charger whirly and a metric ton of wiring and gaskets 😑... thought to myself ok so what's the engine bay look like and what did he put in this HQ when he blew the original motor, popped the bonnet to find a brand spanking new 454ci crate motor that had never been run 😮 found paperwork in the glove box for it, and now I'm slowly restoring it while keeping the old fella up to date with what the progress is, so thankyou for bringing us these revival videos mate, your inspiration has led me down a path I would have never gone down and now glad I did 🤙💙🇦🇺
Derek, you’re a natural inspiration. At one point I started to think I liked newer cars but man old classics just spark a fire inside me. I don’t have a garage or wrenches but one day I’ll revive at least one dying car, thanks to you, mate.
Simple tools are needed. A garage is a convenience. You can devote 15-30 minutes a day to your project & it’ll be running. In mean time learn what’s needed for proper revival. Watching TV at night is overrated.
I do not have one either, but i still maintain all of my vehicles in the seattle rain. Just buy you a cartent canopy with some sidewalls or use long tarps to cover it. Ridgid job site box for your tools.
As a true blue Pontiac feller this is right up there as one of my favourite revivals. It's definitely great to see you save this beauty from years of neglect!
Learning, laughing and completely enjoying the resurrection of the Catalina. Hence why your channel has over 1.5 million subscribers and this video has over 1.6 million views one month after it was posted. LOVE your channel Derek!
Congratulations on another successful rescue trip Derek, wonderful to see that old girl coming back to life. Really didn't believe how sweet it would look after just a little soap and water. Lucky owner.
Watching your channel grow from thousands to millions of subscribers has been a once in a lifetime experience and if anyone deserves that success it’s you Derek. I have learned an invaluable amount from just watching your videos, and I always have a great time watching you make videos. Thank you for doing what you do best.
Seems like only a little while ago VGG was at 1/2 million. They got to 1.6 million pretty quickly. I think Derek pulls of the vicarious experience really well, he makes us feel like we can do it, even mistakes are just absorbed into the mix and he's funny.
Yeah I feel the same way. I had his video come up last night where he went and took pieces of videos from way before when he was working in a small garage like attached to his house.. it's truly crazy the amount he's grown. Like he's got his own TV show on motortrend, he's got one of the biggest UA-cam channels in the car community. He's truly a genuine gentleman. Derek and his family are good people.
This video made my Friday. Always love watching revivals. It's what got me into your channel and I love everything you do. The revivals just tickle me a certain way
I was SO happy that you did a couple more episodes of going back to your roots with “Will It Run” that I’m re-watching a bunch of old ones and leaving likes on any that I forgot to before. I totally get why you like the racing episodes, but this is really what it’s all about for me. AND it’s a PONTIAC!!! YES!!!
73 Catalina- this was my first car when I turned 16! Wish I kept it, it was so strong and such a great runner. What a trip down memory lane and thanks so much for rescuing this baby Derek!
Loved this. I can never get enough of the Poncho rescues. These 70’s Pontiacs are overlooked but are true gems. I love my massive 77 GP. It’s a sporty boat. Nice save!
I'm always amazed at what a set of wheels and tires will do for pretty much any rig. Great video. Someone obviously loved this rig alot at one time. Thanks for sharing. Take care.
These motors have a character all of their own, and you know that Derek. Although I am envious that you have discovered such a wonderful motor to release into a new life of enjoyment that I will not unfortunately be a part of, I am at least thankful Derek that you have rescued this wonderful motor from becoming nothing other than parts/scrap. This is just the sort of base project that can return to become something more than it originally ever was, bringing so much joy and fun to a new owner. Thank you Derek for your passion and dedication. It is refreshing indeed to find someone who can see far beyond the surface look of each motor you find.
Love these revivals. Makes you realize how much more character the old body styles had. Thanks for taking the time out of your busy life to bring us such great content every week.
Just makes my Friday night. Having a cold snack and watching Derek bring a car back to life. Realize how much work and time goes into making these episodes and can't thank you enough.
@@billybob042665 Some of the best 'ol rigs. What I would give for a ride in some of them' ol rigs these days. My gramps always had the 'ol Chevy trucks. I guess why I've always stuck with the old squares.
I really enjoy watching you raise these old beauty's from the dead. It reminds me of troubleshooting in my Automotive School in 1963. With Spark, Fuel, Air, you were good to go back then, no Computers!!!
Derek, your sense of humor has me in stiches every time! just love your recovery episodes, just keep watching them over and over and always find something new!! As an Australian fellow enthusiast, I find your channel just one of the best mate, truly awesome! Heck, I accidently found myself calling an alternator a chargerwhiller the other day!!! got a strange look from one of my friends!
I’ve been watching your channel a lot but this one has to be one of my favorites, my grandad had a Pontiac Cadillac dealership when I was just out of diapers. My whole family had Pontiacs from the family station wagon to moms LeMans, big brothers GTO big sisters Catalina and my restored 64 Tempest convirtable! Thank you Derek for refreshing all those sweet memories! Please stay safe and always be awesome 😎
I haven't seen one of these in decades, my grandpa was a full blow Pontiac man and i remember he had a green one just like that. Takes me back to being a little feller and going fishing and riding around with him in it. He used to let me steer when we got on the back roads. Thanks for this one Derek.. ❤
I found this channel on my son's watch list. I watched this and it brought back memories of my son and his love for anything with a motor. He passed 6 months ago :( I have his truck in my garage and its waiting to be reborn. 2006 Chevy he bought to rebuild. One day I hope to get the truck fixed up for him.
This is such great entertainment - I forget all my troubles when watching Derek at work. Informative too. In this episode, there are lots of laugh out loud moments, BUT I must mention the one at 1:01:34 to 1:01:54 - 'Eye of the Storm.' Absolute gold!
Holy shit, finally a catalina!!! My first car back in highschool was a 79 catalina and i miss is dearly. I been looking for another one for about 20 years that i can afford or trade for. Alot of good stories in that car and alot of fun. I literally dropped everything i was doing when i saw this. Thank you so much for posting a vid with a catalina. Derick, you really are my favorite youtuber. I didnt expect this today. Thanks for bringing back allthe good memories i had with my car. One day i will have another one and never get rid of it this time.
Still my all time favorite Channel on UA-cam. A few month's ago a feller also found you on motortrend. You already know of course watch all those shows at home while enjoying some cold snacks. I tip my hat to you it blows my mind after seeing just how many shows you were on even with all of that. As busy as you are you have kept this Channel alive. I know I speak for at the very least my buddies and I well we appreciate it.
My buddy in high-school had a green '70 Catalina. It was a great car, back when you could get stuff for cheap and it lasted. You could roll around with 6 people comfortably.
I agree with 100%,,..My first car at 16 was a 1970 442 my dad got me to go to community college in IF I graduated high school. Next car was 1969 GTO,,.. then a 1978 GMC Caballaro, then a 1980 El Camino. Needless to say these shows take me back to some great memories.
@@PopahoDang buddy yall had some good taste in cars lol. I wish I could have grown up around these types of cars. Not too many normal commuter cars these days have soul.
I'd love to buy this car.. my grandfather and grandmother had one just like this when I was a kid. My uncle junked it years later without trying to fix it. Seeing this revival brought back memories of riding in the back seat with my grandpa driving. Thanks so much for what you do, Derek.
If I had one wish come true, it would be to go back as a kid and ride in the back seat with my brothers, as my parents went to get groceries, which was a typical Friday night. Such a little thing that meant nothing then but means so much now. Reading comments here and on his other videos, Derek's channel brings a little piece of those memories back to so many of us. You can't put a value on that.
Mom’s brother in law had the four door Grande Ville version. Dark green with white vinyl top that replaced 1967 Bonneville ragtop. White with black top and red interior. Both epic Pontiacs. Almost forgot the Nocturne blue 1963 GP that came before both. PMD gone yet not in the least forgotten!!
“If the radio of come on, I would have opened the door and bailed…” I laughed out loud and not for the first time in this video. While I love you getting these cars running and back on the road, I really enjoy your sense of humour that adds so much to your videos. Thanks for keeping us entertained, Derek.
I started watching your channel about 3 weeks ago and I've watched a bunch of your old videos. I love watching you get these old cars up and running again. I remember many days tearing down old cars so my dad could build a roll cage and turn it into a street stock dirt track race car. Love that you allow your kids to get in there and get their hands dirty. If I had it my way I'd love to just tinker on old cars but of course as we all know bills don't stop 😋. Keep up the great videos, I'll be watching all your content. Oh yeah another thing is I love the Red Green Show and you remind me sooooooo much of that show. Your personality is one of the reasons I enjoy about your content.
It's amazing what a little bit of love can do for these old rides, Being a truck driver if I'm not in a real big hurry always grab the 2 lane state routes and enjoy the countryside. Another killer video, really enjoyed it .
Beautiful ride, that quick wash made a big difference. Love how you bringing all rides back to life. I was giving a 84 Volkswagen Rabbit 2 door convertible by another Army Veteran. Don’t know anything about that car but I need to bring her back to life.
I really enjoy your sense of humor and your work ethic. I've been watching your videos for several years now and really like your revival videos. Especially the ones where you drive long distances to bring them home. You've got a lot more nerve thin I do. Keep saving them old gem's!
Derek, I've been following you almost since day 1 and I have to say that it is a constant pleasure to ride along with ya and be a small part of returning each of these vehicles back to active (or somewhat active) duty. I've always been a tinkerer and have always owned used vehicles and getting them to run right and extending their life has been a lifelong affair, so you and I see eye to eye on a lot of matters related to cars and trucks. Keep the dirty side down and I'll see ya on your next adventure.
Gosh I love watching these old vehicles get a second chance. Derek just works his magic and everyone smiles when he brings the thunder once again. Love the older vehicles, they have class the new ones will never know. So happy this one already has a home. Another great one in the books. Stay safe and GOD bless
I think I speak for a lot of people and say this is the favorite aspect of your channel.. it's something normal people can relate to. And a lot of normal people learn from you. Keep the small folk happy!!!! We love you guys
Awesome video. Love seeing these old rigs get a new lease on life and the appreciation they deserve. They really don't make em like they used to. Awesome work and God bless.❤
What a treat to watch you bring this Catalina back to life, Derek! Then your expressing what it's like to enjoy our land via back roads & small towns really makes a guy enjoy your videos more than any other gearhead channel!
Neat car, I had a close friend while growing up......his first car was this very same year in Winter Green...his he got it in near mint condition...kept it for a few years and sent it down the road.
My dad bought the 4 door version of this in 1978 from an elderly couple. He was replacing his 1973 Chevrolet Caprice wagon and was hoping for a mileage improvement 🤣. The Catalina had a 400 in it as well. My older brothers both drove this car. Man could that thing lay rubber and had a pretty good top speed too.
I am glad to see you getting back to what made your channel great. I like race cars and high performance as much as any feller but that is not why I started watching you in the first place. A few of these adventures thrown in with the rest will keep me happy. I also enjoyed watching you build and set up your new shop. 🤠🏁
Haven't even started this one yet...but memories, ya know. When I was in college in the late 70s (yeah, I'm that old!) I got a 68 Catalina with the small block 400 for $300, body was ok, interior was mint. Could fit like 7 friends with luggage. Awesome car! Went every where, always started ...even 10F below in Syracuse. Those were the days!
Thanks for keeping the will it run alive on your channel.
Always and forever
@@ViceGripGarage God bless you and yours
@@ViceGripGarage hi Derek
@@ViceGripGarage Derek, you have enough car batteries to power Minneapolis and Knoxville I think. Argh Argh.
@@ViceGripGarageAmen 👍
9:30 "That vent right there needs to come back in automobiles... You guys know what I'm talking about"
Amen to that!! :)
Maybe it’s because I’ve never tried to do it, but Derek’s ability to throw a car battery like a baseball is very impressive!
He's a big guy for sure. I worked in body structures at Boeing years ago and for whatever reason they put the biggest guys on the nose section which was small when not connected to the rest of the airplane?
hes a pretty good sized feller. although i am as well and i cant do it. Its all them years of practice hes had i guess.
I've tried it. Not easy at all.
He's s very stout feller. That is for sure .
maybe he uses an Olympic
disc throw technique, IDK.
I think it's more like a Shot Put than a Baseball
Discovered yesterday... this is simply the most compelling car channel on earth. Never have I ever learned more about sparkilators, fuel-make-happeners and digical things in such a short time. Just genius.
Welcome to the channel!
Safety squints are standard PPE at my work.
@kevinmcauley he said "safety squint!" And I physically cringed.
And those thingamabobs
to refer to or address a person or thing whose name one has forgotten, does not know, or does not wish to mention.
VGG was my motivation 5 years ago to tackle the revival of my pontiac grandville. When I got it it had not ran for 22 years. I used all of the methods that I saw watching VGG. I've learned a ton from watching and would have never attempted anything had it not been for VGG.
THANK YOU Derrick for the outstanding information and entertainment that you provide.
Motivating me to tackle my red thunderbird but still haven't done it. All it needs is a water pump.
Incredible, great work!
@@ViceGripGaragewish I could call you for some information about that kinky little cadillac eldorado's 2000 etc always something going on somewhere🤔😒
new favorite line "this thing might be more hopped up than a bunny farm."
Derek, you're truly a national treasure, please never change, this world needs yah.
Great video 👍👍👍🇬🇧
@1:01:31 "Eye of the Storm", ....lolololol
I agree, his unique communication style is one reason I watch the videos.
My wife just bought a 66 Catalina! Dealership said “we dropped 2k off because we can’t get it running again. It needs towed.” Towed it .3 miles home, charged the battery, hooked the choke back up, fired right up! First thing on my list is an exhaust so we don’t die driving it!
Be sure to put some gips with tips on that bad boy.
Old Derek is so laid back and down to earth...started on the old tube and got so big he got motortrend...he's made it and yet he still pumps out the old UA-cam for us....my favorite channel hands down....I don't know anyone that loves cars that doesn't know about a guy that does the thing....I've never met the man in person but he makes me (all of us) feel like we've been friends for years.....thanks buddy
I agree!!
Good channel. A lot of other rebuild channels got so big, they forgot where they came from
amen to that mate
Well said, hardest working family I know, his fans feel like they have known him forever
totally agree. Can't wait for the next "will it run again" 😀 and his "no-nonsense" solutions.
Even with a bum hoof a guy is still out there showing us how it is done. I've got a lot of respect for ya feller, Thank you for the good times, and giving us the inspiration to get out in the shop.
Thanks for the kind words
@@ViceGripGarage I hope and pray your foot gets better Derek. I have foot issues also. I can sympathize. Be well.
I could watch these “will it run and drive 600 miles” episodes every week if my life! Keep up the great work Derek, you are a national treasure
I love the way the fire extinguisher is leaning against the fuel jug. That way when it bursts into flames, the extinguisher will over heat and when the safety disk bursts, the contents will automatically discharge. Meanwhile, you can be running like Hell the other way. PERFECT!
That’s pretty neat
@@BrittanyAndThePhilbillys I'm pretty sure he knows what he's talking about. Sounds like it. He must be qualified. 👍
She came back to life with each passing mile down the road. I think she likes you Derick. Thank you, your videos are always a pleasure to watch my friend.
Thanks to VGG, Derek and his family for the endless hours of fun, family entertainment, not to mention how good of a mechanic he is... his humor is the absolute best!
A feller is getting spoiled on these Friday VGG vids. Thank Ya. 🍺
Thank YOU for watching!
@@ViceGripGarage I love all your videos
You keep a guy laughing
??
@@ViceGripGarage sorry, wet phone in my pocket decided to make random comments!
You have no idea how many people have joy in watching your channel. I had a 1970 Pontiac Catalina. 400 with no exhaust and sold it that way
Now wishing I had it stored somewhere. Thanks for the memories
This is classic VGG... This is what made the channel what it is...❤
100%! @1:01:31 "Eye of the Storm", ....lolololol
@@kidwave1 Yeah that was hilarious.... Derek is a funny fella
What a gorgeous car. Thank you for bringing this rig back to life and taking us with you
Thanks for joining
Been around since original garage days man, learnt tons from you..your an inspiration to us all Derek thanks for all you do brother
LETS GOOO famous guy left a reply! Lol
Thanks for being loyal, appreciate ya
“Your project won’t work if you don’t.” Now that’s an awesome message!
Can’t express enough how much I love these revivals if not even for the content just the fact these cars are being brought back to a running condition and saved and sent on to the next to continue its life and pulled from their potential grave! Thank you Derek
Watching this video was like taking a trip down memory lane. Great job!
Thank you kindly
There's a trick that some GM Mechanics taught me back in the 70's for changing the sparkilators on the A/C compressor side of GM vehicles. Jack that side of the car up via the frame until the tire is just barely touching the ground, then use a long extension (36 to 48" long) and a wobble socket to go over the top of the tire, above the upper control arm, thru the black rubber splash pad to get to the sparkilators. Works like a charm. My old boss at Goodyear couldn't figure out why I put an Impala on the lift todo a tune up until he saw me change the plugs that way. The old guy about pooped his pants when I changed the plugs in about 5 minutes on that side.
My wife's '73 Ventura Custom was almost the same, except it was the rear plug on passenger side, took the front wheel off and hole sawed a 3" hole in the rear of the steel wheel tub and reached in with an extension and a socket, made a rubber flap and screwed it to the hole. Years of having tune ups done and no one ever changed that plug and they charged her for 8 plugs. Then she married me and she got a real tune up.
Flat rate is the mother of all invention.
In my shop, on 455 Trans Ams, that was the only way to to the plugs
My first car was a white w/white vinyl top 1973 Pontiac Catalina! It had a 400 with a 2 bbl carb. Great car! Unfortunately I live in Michigan so she was pretty rusty when I got her in 1980. Great job on this revival and thanks for the memories!
I live in the UK and have always loved old American Muscle cars, watching VGG just makes me love them even more especially because I doubt I'll ever actually own one. I'm so glad you go out of your way to keep such a unique era of cars alive and running.
As a big classic Pontiac fan, I love seeing this one on the road again! She's a sweet car that just needs a little love. Glad it's going to a new home!
I absolutelymlove these revival/rescue episodes! The funniest part is that a guy has a ramp truck and could easily avoid all of the time constraints and risks of driving a janky old rig, but still does it old school just for us to enjoy.
Thanks for the call out to Body by Fisher! My dad worked there when the body for this car was built.
You literally inspired me to start my own project here in Australia 😂, for YEARS ( a good 25? Maybe ) I've been driving past a farm that has a few cars parked in a row, few looked abit worse for wear, others where okish and some had just become a pile of rot, after watching one of you're revival videos I thought bugger it I'm going to pull in and see what that's all about one day, about a week later I saw the old fella out on his tractor so hit the skids and pulled in and waved him down, got to chattin with him ( decent old fella that liked to have abit of a chin wag ) and we shuffled over to the abandoned car lot, I had my "peepers" as you call it 😂 on 1 car, a 72' Holden HQ Statesman De Ville, I asked if he'd be interested in parting with it and he said sure chuck him an offer, I said $2000 and he came back and said "if you can get it gone today you can have it for $1000, so raced home, grabbed a mates tilt tray and some cash and went back, he was waiting there ( had slashed the grass around it for me ) and we got to talking again while loading up ( I hadn't even looked in the car yet just a quick look on the outside, very very minimal rust which had me interested) he said it used to belong to his son, his resin had blown up the original V8 that was in it ( think it was a 308, could or been a 350 ) and had put in a new motor an trans but then became sick and sadly passed away, chat for a good 40min more and got it home where ( under your instructions) checked out the boot first, and shit.... a set of heads.. aa fuel mixer... a charger whirly and a metric ton of wiring and gaskets 😑... thought to myself ok so what's the engine bay look like and what did he put in this HQ when he blew the original motor, popped the bonnet to find a brand spanking new 454ci crate motor that had never been run 😮 found paperwork in the glove box for it, and now I'm slowly restoring it while keeping the old fella up to date with what the progress is, so thankyou for bringing us these revival videos mate, your inspiration has led me down a path I would have never gone down and now glad I did 🤙💙🇦🇺
I think it being a wine mixer edition is actually accurate. Wine is probably what caused that front end, after all.
Haha
Derek, you’re a natural inspiration. At one point I started to think I liked newer cars but man old classics just spark a fire inside me. I don’t have a garage or wrenches but one day I’ll revive at least one dying car, thanks to you, mate.
Simple tools are needed. A garage is a convenience. You can devote 15-30 minutes a day to your project & it’ll be running. In mean time learn what’s needed for proper revival. Watching TV at night is overrated.
I do not have one either, but i still maintain all of my vehicles in the seattle rain. Just buy you a cartent canopy with some sidewalls or use long tarps to cover it. Ridgid job site box for your tools.
@Captain Blacktooth That's a thing way too many people learn far too late. As the song says, "Someday never comes".
My day is always a little bit better every time VG posts a new video. Thanks, Derek and fam.
Thank you 🤝
My boyfriend and I love watching you bring all of those cars back to life. And... you crack us up, you are so darn funny 😅
As a true blue Pontiac feller this is right up there as one of my favourite revivals. It's definitely great to see you save this beauty from years of neglect!
I’ll be dipped, a will it run and drive episode. A guy is super excited. This definitely looks like a going to town rig.
I particularly liked this rescue. Cool old Catalina. Whomsoever got it is fortunate.
Learning, laughing and completely enjoying the resurrection of the Catalina. Hence why your channel has over 1.5 million subscribers and this video has over 1.6 million views one month after it was posted. LOVE your channel Derek!
A guy can’t think of a better way to start off the weekend with a VGG video. Keep ‘em coming!
Congratulations on another successful rescue trip Derek, wonderful to see that old girl coming back to life. Really didn't believe how sweet it would look after just a little soap and water. Lucky owner.
“More hopped up than a bunny farm” absolutely killed me! 🤣 Derek is such a gem!
Thank you Derek and family for the entertainment! You’ve got my wife watching now too! Now we’re trying to save on an old Road Runner!
Watching your channel grow from thousands to millions of subscribers has been a once in a lifetime experience and if anyone deserves that success it’s you Derek. I have learned an invaluable amount from just watching your videos, and I always have a great time watching you make videos. Thank you for doing what you do best.
I was here from very start too! Watching him and his bro in that super sketchy car with outsized gear stick was epic!!
Seems like only a little while ago VGG was at 1/2 million. They got to 1.6 million pretty quickly. I think Derek pulls of the vicarious experience really well, he makes us feel like we can do it, even mistakes are just absorbed into the mix and he's funny.
Yeah I feel the same way. I had his video come up last night where he went and took pieces of videos from way before when he was working in a small garage like attached to his house.. it's truly crazy the amount he's grown. Like he's got his own TV show on motortrend, he's got one of the biggest UA-cam channels in the car community. He's truly a genuine gentleman. Derek and his family are good people.
This is the format that put you on the backroad to success. Keep these up.
Nothing better on a Saturday morning than an hour long VVG video ❤
A little tip when trying to prime those fuel systems, try a hand brake bleeder from Harbor Freight. Works like a charm. I have used it many times.
Your sense of humor and down to earth personality make for a great show. Thanks for rescuing those old muscle cars!
The Pontiac Catalina Wine Mixer....Derek must be a fan of the movie "Stepbrothers". LOL
This video made my Friday. Always love watching revivals. It's what got me into your channel and I love everything you do. The revivals just tickle me a certain way
Appreciate ya
I was SO happy that you did a couple more episodes of going back to your roots with “Will It Run” that I’m re-watching a bunch of old ones and leaving likes on any that I forgot to before. I totally get why you like the racing episodes, but this is really what it’s all about for me. AND it’s a PONTIAC!!! YES!!!
I love Derick so much been getting caught up on all the old videos.
73 Catalina- this was my first car when I turned 16! Wish I kept it, it was so strong and such a great runner. What a trip down memory lane and thanks so much for rescuing this baby Derek!
Me too. Brought back memories.
Mine was a 67 with the 400 4barrel it even had the primered front clip. Great car
Loved this. I can never get enough of the Poncho rescues. These 70’s Pontiacs are overlooked but are true gems. I love my massive 77 GP. It’s a sporty boat. Nice save!
I'm always amazed at what a set of wheels and tires will do for pretty much any rig. Great video. Someone obviously loved this rig alot at one time. Thanks for sharing. Take care.
you're absolutely correct!
These motors have a character all of their own, and you know that Derek. Although I am envious that you have discovered such a wonderful motor to release into a new life of enjoyment that I will not unfortunately be a part of, I am at least thankful Derek that you have rescued this wonderful motor from becoming nothing other than parts/scrap. This is just the sort of base project that can return to become something more than it originally ever was, bringing so much joy and fun to a new owner. Thank you Derek for your passion and dedication. It is refreshing indeed to find someone who can see far beyond the surface look of each motor you find.
Love these revivals. Makes you realize how much more character the old body styles had. Thanks for taking the time out of your busy life to bring us such great content every week.
Just makes my Friday night. Having a cold snack and watching Derek bring a car back to life. Realize how much work and time goes into making these episodes and can't thank you enough.
My grandpa had a Catalina, brings back a lot of memories riding around with him
Another pile of crap
@@billybob042665 Some of the best 'ol rigs. What I would give for a ride in some of them' ol rigs these days. My gramps always had the 'ol Chevy trucks. I guess why I've always stuck with the old squares.
So did one of my grandpa's. His was a '63 to '65 (don't remember). It was a copper color & was a smooth ride 🙂.
I had a '68 cat with the 400 Rocket engine. Was azure aqua in color with the white vinyl top. I sure miss that land yacht.
I really enjoy watching you raise these old beauty's from the dead. It reminds me of troubleshooting in my Automotive School in 1963. With Spark, Fuel, Air, you were good to go back then, no Computers!!!
Derek, your sense of humor has me in stiches every time! just love your recovery episodes, just keep watching them over and over and always find something new!! As an Australian fellow enthusiast, I find your channel just one of the best mate, truly awesome! Heck, I accidently found myself calling an alternator a chargerwhiller the other day!!! got a strange look from one of my friends!
Hey Derek, I just want to acknowledge the transition at 38:20. Stepping out of shot and then appearing from behind the car. ✋🏼😌👌🏼
Love it!
Awesome car brother keeping the old school Pontiac running is a great thing not to many around anymore
Probably cost more than it's worth, but the steel on this one looks a lot better than most that old. Would like to see this one fixed up.
I’ve been watching your channel a lot but this one has to be one of my favorites, my grandad had a Pontiac Cadillac dealership when I was just out of diapers. My whole family had Pontiacs from the family station wagon to moms LeMans, big brothers GTO big sisters Catalina and my restored 64 Tempest convirtable! Thank you Derek for refreshing all those sweet memories! Please stay safe and always be awesome 😎
I haven't seen one of these in decades, my grandpa was a full blow Pontiac man and i remember he had a green one just like that. Takes me back to being a little feller and going fishing and riding around with him in it. He used to let me steer when we got on the back roads. Thanks for this one Derek.. ❤
I found this channel on my son's watch list. I watched this and it brought back memories of my son and his love for anything with a motor. He passed 6 months ago :( I have his truck in my garage and its waiting to be reborn. 2006 Chevy he bought to rebuild. One day I hope to get the truck fixed up for him.
These will forever be my favorite videos. Keeping all the old classics on the road! Keep up the good work derek!
Beautiful Pont-i-ac!
I live down this way and there's endless great mountain roads to explore and drive. I've come to appreciate my mustang's handling!
This is such great entertainment - I forget all my troubles when watching Derek at work. Informative too. In this episode, there are lots of laugh out loud moments, BUT I must mention the one at 1:01:34 to 1:01:54 - 'Eye of the Storm.' Absolute gold!
Holy shit, finally a catalina!!! My first car back in highschool was a 79 catalina and i miss is dearly. I been looking for another one for about 20 years that i can afford or trade for. Alot of good stories in that car and alot of fun. I literally dropped everything i was doing when i saw this. Thank you so much for posting a vid with a catalina. Derick, you really are my favorite youtuber. I didnt expect this today. Thanks for bringing back allthe good memories i had with my car. One day i will have another one and never get rid of it this time.
Still my all time favorite Channel on UA-cam. A few month's ago a feller also found you on motortrend. You already know of course watch all those shows at home while enjoying some cold snacks. I tip my hat to you it blows my mind after seeing just how many shows you were on even with all of that. As busy as you are you have kept this Channel alive. I know I speak for at the very least my buddies and I well we appreciate it.
@1:01:31 "Eye of the Storm", ....lolololol
This is the first time I ever intentionally watched a UA-cam commercial! Loved Derek as a O’Reilly’s auto parts, spokesman.
I love watching you get these old cars going! Good job Derek 👍🏿
Thanks
Don't we all
These videos of yours are the reason why I take the chance of fixing up/maintaining/upgrading my car in the apartment parking spot.
My buddy in high-school had a green '70 Catalina. It was a great car, back when you could get stuff for cheap and it lasted. You could roll around with 6 people comfortably.
You're like the dad i lost 2 years ago, thank you for making me laugh no matter what situation im in❤ keep the will it runs coming!
I agree with 100%,,..My first car at 16 was a 1970 442 my dad got me to go to community college in IF I graduated high school. Next car was 1969 GTO,,.. then a 1978 GMC Caballaro, then a 1980 El Camino.
Needless to say these shows take me back to some great memories.
@@PopahoDang buddy yall had some good taste in cars lol. I wish I could have grown up around these types of cars. Not too many normal commuter cars these days have soul.
I'd love to buy this car.. my grandfather and grandmother had one just like this when I was a kid. My uncle junked it years later without trying to fix it. Seeing this revival brought back memories of riding in the back seat with my grandpa driving. Thanks so much for what you do, Derek.
If I had one wish come true, it would be to go back as a kid and ride in the back seat with my brothers, as my parents went to get groceries, which was a typical Friday night. Such a little thing that meant nothing then but means so much now. Reading comments here and on his other videos, Derek's channel brings a little piece of those memories back to so many of us. You can't put a value on that.
@@mike02454 and they'll get to your feels
Mom’s brother in law had the four door Grande Ville version. Dark green with white vinyl top that replaced 1967 Bonneville ragtop. White with black top and red interior. Both epic Pontiacs. Almost forgot the Nocturne blue 1963 GP that came before both. PMD gone yet not in the least forgotten!!
PLEASE KEEP DOING REVIVE AND DRIVES!! This is what made you famous!! Keep it up Derek! Love ya man!!! 😊🤙🏻😎
“If the radio of come on, I would have opened the door and bailed…” I laughed out loud and not for the first time in this video. While I love you getting these cars running and back on the road, I really enjoy your sense of humour that adds so much to your videos. Thanks for keeping us entertained, Derek.
Come to think of it, has there been a revival yet where the radio has worked?
@@Unholyhairhole it worked in the service truck last video! Think it was a fluke though
@@Unholyhairhole 🎉
I started watching your channel about 3 weeks ago and I've watched a bunch of your old videos. I love watching you get these old cars up and running again. I remember many days tearing down old cars so my dad could build a roll cage and turn it into a street stock dirt track race car. Love that you allow your kids to get in there and get their hands dirty. If I had it my way I'd love to just tinker on old cars but of course as we all know bills don't stop 😋. Keep up the great videos, I'll be watching all your content. Oh yeah another thing is I love the Red Green Show and you remind me sooooooo much of that show. Your personality is one of the reasons I enjoy about your content.
It's amazing what a little bit of love can do for these old rides, Being a truck driver if I'm not in a real big hurry always grab the 2 lane state routes and enjoy the countryside. Another killer video, really enjoyed it .
Running back roads was how I made my living. No chicken coops and most folks on back roads knew where they were going.
It's an absolute joy watching you bring these old cars back to life.
Can't help but appreciate the extra time and quality editing put into this episode 🤟🙌
Beautiful ride, that quick wash made a big difference. Love how you bringing all rides back to life. I was giving a 84 Volkswagen Rabbit 2 door convertible by another Army Veteran. Don’t know anything about that car but I need to bring her back to life.
I just never get bored of these fix and drive home videos. Keep 'em coming. Thanks
Man, the way she cleaned up... even the front end looked amazing. I'd be tempted to clear gloss the front and leave it. Great revival!
exactly! all this thing needs is preservation. I wouldn't even try to fix that dent. She's a proper going to town rig!
I really enjoy your sense of humor and your work ethic. I've been watching your videos for several years now and really like your revival videos. Especially the ones where you drive long distances to bring them home. You've got a lot more nerve thin I do. Keep saving them old gem's!
I will never understand why someone would leave a car like this to just waste away. Thanks for the work you do on these, Derek.
Derek, I've been following you almost since day 1 and I have to say that it is a constant pleasure to ride along with ya and be a small part of returning each of these vehicles back to active (or somewhat active) duty. I've always been a tinkerer and have always owned used vehicles and getting them to run right and extending their life has been a lifelong affair, so you and I see eye to eye on a lot of matters related to cars and trucks. Keep the dirty side down and I'll see ya on your next adventure.
Gosh I love watching these old vehicles get a second chance. Derek just works his magic and everyone smiles when he brings the thunder once again. Love the older vehicles, they have class the new ones will never know. So happy this one already has a home. Another great one in the books. Stay safe and GOD bless
i look forward to watching these revivals, if i had the money these make me think i could revive them with ease! love the videos VGG!
The interior of that thing is in great shape for what it is and where it’s been. I’m quite impressed! Great find!
I think I speak for a lot of people and say this is the favorite aspect of your channel.. it's something normal people can relate to. And a lot of normal people learn from you. Keep the small folk happy!!!! We love you guys
Great rescue Derek. Reminds me of the 1972 impala I had with the small block 400. I love that car. Keep doing what you do. Love the channel!
Awesome video. Love seeing these old rigs get a new lease on life and the appreciation they deserve. They really don't make em like they used to. Awesome work and God bless.❤
What a treat to watch you bring this Catalina back to life, Derek! Then your expressing what it's like to enjoy our land via back roads & small towns really makes a guy enjoy your videos more than any other gearhead channel!
I know these videos are hard to do but I love watching them and watching a old vehicle roar back to life! Thank you!
I’ll watch VGG whatever is on but I think that tooling on the rigs is the best. No belts on the burn out truck is brilliant!
Thank you
Congratulations on another great rescue. I really admire your work, dedication and skill. Keep it up and stay safe.
Neat car, I had a close friend while growing up......his first car was this very same year in Winter Green...his he got it in near mint condition...kept it for a few years and sent it down the road.
My dad bought the 4 door version of this in 1978 from an elderly couple. He was replacing his 1973 Chevrolet Caprice wagon and was hoping for a mileage improvement 🤣. The Catalina had a 400 in it as well. My older brothers both drove this car. Man could that thing lay rubber and had a pretty good top speed too.
I am glad to see you getting back to what made your channel great. I like race cars and high performance as much as any feller but that is not why I started watching you in the first place. A few of these adventures thrown in with the rest will keep me happy. I also enjoyed watching you build and set up your new shop. 🤠🏁
I couldn't agree more!
Haven't even started this one yet...but memories, ya know. When I was in college in the late 70s (yeah, I'm that old!) I got a 68 Catalina with the small block 400 for $300, body was ok, interior was mint. Could fit like 7 friends with luggage. Awesome car! Went every where, always started ...even 10F below in Syracuse. Those were the days!
I’m a Brit, but love what you do, sort of making light of what confronts you. Marvellous.