Mark and Brenda Greenwell – 1966 Chevrolet Van – “DRAG’N WAGON”

Mark Greenwell is a retired automotive mechanic, repair shop owner, and NHRA dragster racer. He is the proud owner of a custom 1966 Chevrolet van, affectionately nicknamed “DRAG’N WAGON.”

Mark purchased the van in 1973 as his high school vehicle. This past November 2025 marked 53 years of ownership. Most of the build and major modifications were completed by 2005, with ongoing updates to the engine, interior, and drivetrain—including the addition of an electric air-conditioning unit with no belt-driven compressor.

Body & Exterior
All body and custom modifications were completed by Freddie Herrera and Mark.

• Headlights from a 1976 Monte Carlo
• Taillights from a 1966 Pontiac Catalina
• Custom rear windows
• Shaved emblems and hidden electric door poppers

Dana at D & S Auto Body painted the van in Sherwin-Williams Black with Purple Pearl.
Mural and graphics work was done by the incredible Fred Spargo of Airwolf Airbrush in Peoria/Phoenix, Arizona.

Engine & Drivetrain
Under the doghouse is a big-block 428 c.i. Pontiac engine from 1967. After being built from the block up, the engine dynoed at 496 hp. With the addition of the Twin Turbo 16 Hilborn Intercooled Injection System, Mark expects the next dyno session to show approximately 700 hp.

• Hughes Transmission Powerglide with trans brake
• The van lifts the front wheels 4–6 inches under hard acceleration
• Driveshaft length: only 5 inches from U-joint to U-joint

Cooling is supported by two radiator fans plus two floor-mounted fans that fold out using air actuators.

Suspension, Wheels & Brakes
DRAG’N WAGON rides on Centerline wheels and Pro Track tires, backed by rear disc brakes.

Front disc brake kits aren’t commercially available, but Mark is part of a group called Bad Ass Flat Glass, where a member manufactures front brackets and provides guidance on the remaining parts needed to complete the upgrade. The van currently runs heavy-duty rear drum brakes and a 9-inch Ford rear end.

Special Thanks
Special thanks go to Brenda, Vicki, and Greg Ratliff; Fred Herrera; David Kite; Freddy Herrera; “Boch” Boch Marin; and Dana at D & S Auto Body for their help and support. And thanks to Rod Loveless for featuring DRAG’N WAGON in Roddin’ Arizona.

—Mark Greenwell