How a Family Turned a Rusty Shell into a Show-Stopping Shelby GT500
The Oehmke family, proud residents of Michigan, embodies the American automotive spirit, and their tale of restoring a 1969 Shelby GT500 is a testament to their dedication and love for classic cars. This sleek Silver Jade beauty wasn't just a car; it was a family project, filled with history, passion, and hard work. The vibrant automotive culture in Michigan has seen many families engage in the world of cars, but few can claim a story that's as captivating as the one of the Oehmke brothers – Charles, Fred, and their father, Mark.
In a state often recognized for its tumultuous automotive landscape, ranging from the flares to the downturns, the passion for cars remains undiminished. The Oehmkes are a perfect representation of this enduring love affair with automobiles. The family is not only involved in the car industry, but they also breathe it – whether it’s building, racing, or restoring classic vehicles. With a deep-rooted connection to the craft, the brothers didn't just embark on a restoration journey; they transformed their shared memories and experiences into a masterpiece.
Beginning the Restoration Process
The journey for this specific Mustang began in 2011 when Mark Oehmke discovered the disassembled carcass of a ’69 Shelby GT500. Unlike most project cars that come fully intact, this one was nothing more than a 'basket case' – missing significant components and looking more like salvage than a classic car. But for the Oehmke family, this was the opportunity to bring a piece of automotive history back to life. A firm believer in hands-on learning and teaching, Mark was eager to guide his sons, Charles and Fred, through every intricate step.
Charles' love for cars started young. With his hands around tools since he was twelve, he quickly transitioned from simple tasks of oil changes to comprehensive restorations. By the time his father introduced the GT500 into the fold, Charles was well-equipped to tackle a project of such magnitude. With a background rooted in automotive engineering – Fred working as an engineer and Charles managing repairs for a prominent Detroit shop – the family had the skills to make their dream a reality.
The Restoration Journey
Once they possessed the skeleton of the Shelby, they quickly realized the challenges ahead. The restoration process was long due to the fact that some parts were hard to source, others were damaged, and the condition of the body was alarming. The Oehmkes decided to engage professionals to assist with the heavier elements of the restoration. Scott’s Collision Center & Auto Body stepped in to resurrect the body's structure, undertaking a thorough job of repairing rusty areas and fitting fiberglass components accurately.
The Oehmke family understood the importance of authentic restoration. They insisted on retaining the car's original aesthetic, which meant using the same Silver Jade paint that adorned it when it first rolled out of the factory. Skeptics may have doubted their ambition to restore a vehicle that many would label beyond repair, but through persistence and the spirit of familial cooperation, they transformed the once-dilapidated shell into a breathtaking spectacle.
Mechanical Marvels and Fine Details
Meanwhile, the family didn't let up on the mechanical aspects of the restoration. They meticulously rebuilt the 428 Cobra Jet engine, ensuring each component was authentic and properly dated. They sourced rare parts, including a correct Holley carburetor to replace the original one that had gone missing. These authentic components would ensure that the restorer's valuation would meet high standards before the final inspection.
While they were committed to perfection, the Oehmke brothers also recognized that some minor blemishes couldn’t be corrected because certain nuances were characteristic of Shelby’s production methods. For instance, the slight gap between the hood and fenders was a known anomaly that added to the vehicle's uniqueness, and they opted not to alter it.
The Grand Reveal
At last, after overcoming the tribulations and delights of their arduous project, the Shelby GT500 was nearing completion just in time for the much-anticipated 2023 Woodward Dream Cruise. Embarking on a nostalgic journey, the brothers wanted their father to witness the culmination of their years of hard work. They trailered the car down to visit their parents in Mississippi, and the moment Mark laid eyes on the finished product, tears of joy and pride filled the air.
In a heartwarming twist, the family took to the roads of Cruisin’ the Coast, a week-long car festival, basking in the responses of fellow enthusiasts. The brothers felt complete, not merely in their automotive achievement, but also in having shared this entire journey with their family – unlocking cherished memories along the way.
The Legacy of Love for Cars
The Oehmke family's restoration of the 1969 Shelby GT500 is more than just a project to refurbish a classic car. It reflects a deep bond between a father and his sons, rooted in the automotive culture that permeates Michigan. The Shelby GT500 stands not only as a performance icon but as a cherished chapter in the Oehmke family's story, blending history, craftsmanship, and unforgettable memories that will surely be passed down through generations.