Gates Chevrolet - South Bend

[Randal M.]

I am looking for more information on my Glen Green 1965 396 coupe delivered mid-July to Gates Chevrolet in South Bend, Indiana. Less than a year after it was delivered, it next ended up in a used car lot on the northwest side of Chicago (Sal's Auto Sales).

Any information on the original owner or how it got to Chicago would be greatly appreciated.

[Tom H.]

Re: Gates Chevrolet - South Bend

Hi Randal ! I believe the Gates family are still operating several dealerships in Indiana. Perhaps you could find an "old timer" at the store that may recall your car or its owner ?? Worth a shot !!

Call and ask for Matt Helmkamp. His wife's great grandfather started the business back in 1928. Bet he can help you better than anybody.

Here's the number listed for one of the stores. 574-237-4000

[Randal M.]

Re: Gates Chevrolet - South Bend

Thanks Tom! I will try and get hold of Matt.

Also - have you every heard of a Larry Mitchell associated with this dealership? I have seen his name pop up in connection with some Yenko Camaros that may been delivered to Gates, and wondered if he was somehow connected with the high-performance end of things...

I have also contacted the Michiana Corvette Club, which has been sponsored by Gates Chevy since 1957! I was hoping that maybe a long-time member might recall the car, as I would think a big block car in 65 would stick in someone's mind.

Still can't figure out how this thing ended up as a used car so fast!

Thanks again for the contact information!

[Tom H.]

Re: Gates Chevrolet - South Bend

Yep ! Larry worked there for years. I believe he is still around. I have read where a few guys have spoken with him fairly recently. Bet he can get you some info !!

[Steven B.]

Re: Gates Chevrolet - South Bend

Randal, I just came across your post. During warm weather in '65, I can't remember the month, my Dad's company car, a yellow Impala 4 door with black cloth interior, 283 2 BBL, Power Glide, was delivered to Gates in South Bend. A Glen Green 396 coupe there was one of the first 396's I ever saw. There is a very good chance it is the same car. Gates also had a store in Indianapolis. The first '65 I saw was a 2 top, Glen Green car with white/black interior at Hefner Chevrolet on State Street in Fort Wayne, IN. just after introduction.

Steve

[Randal M.]

Re: Gates Chevrolet - South Bend

Hello Steven:

Thanks for the reply! That's pretty neat that you may have seen the car, as it was delivered in July, and I would think there wouldn't be many cars fitting that description at that dealer at that time.

Do you recall where you may have seen the car? Behind the dealership or in the showroom, or out on the lot?

Thanks!

Randal

[Steven B.]

Re: Gates Chevrolet - South Bend

Randal, as I recall there were a number of cars in a post prep area, not in the showroom. I don't recall if the area where the cars were parked was on the side or in the back of Gates. They were outside, though. I don't know if it was presold or stock. Sorry I do not have more info. If I recall anything else I will let you know.

Steve