The “Physchedelic Parrot”

Green fades to red, which mixes with orange and blends with yellow. Each panel acts as its own canvas with candies misted atop pearls and fogged over ‘flakes. Spatters of light catch each curve as the Physchedelic Parrot comes to life on the show floor.

The second incarnation of the Parrot sported all the right components to be a late-‘60s showstopper. Up front, the ‘Vette achieved its prizefighter stance via a chromed straight axle and transversely mounted leaf spring. Tube shocks were plated for extra glitz. Highly polished American Racing 10-spokes wrapped in Pirelli rubber connected the nose to the pavement — or in this case, AstroTurf. The leading lines, courtesy of the stock sidepipes, direct the eye to the aggressively radiused — and flared — rear wheelwells. Piecrust slicks and small-window Halibrands filled the space in full force. Amber-tinted glass all around gave the far-out machine an extra touch of dragstrip flavor.

Although I’ve never met him, my guess is that owner Bill Puchelt was a pretty eccentric guy. You know, checkered sportscoats, big chops and a panel painted ’64 Corvette. When Puchelt first built the car, it was set up for street use. Mild customizations included a hood scoop, rectangular taillights and mags ‘n whitewalls on all four corners. With a magazine feature underneath his belt, Puchelt decided to bring the Parrot to the next level (see above).

There’s no question that the results were memorable. From the Parrot’s Lifesavers-esque paintwork to its competition vibe, Puchelt customized without restraint. His car was loud visually and wild conceptually. I’d expect nothing less from a Phsychedelic Parrot. Other than the single magazine spread, this is the only shot of the Parrot I’ve ever seen. As I dig through old indoor car show outtakes, these are the kind of cars I hope to find — the crazy paint, lots of polish and creative monikers and all.

-Joey Ukrop

Lead photo found on the H.A.M.B. a few years ago. If it’s yours, please let me know. Extremely low-res shots via eBid.