Who's gotta drop top? [Archive]

69GS400s

02-08-2002, 10:06 AM

Two for me.....Both are '69 GS400 Converts

First one I've had almost 10 years now and has gone from needing alot to almost done. Yanked the original #'s matching drive train the third year and tucked it away (engine, tranny, driveshaft, and rear). In went a 455, Th400, and a posi. Did a frame-on resto 2 years ago which included boxes and boxes of NOS and repro stuff i collected over the years plus a rebuild of the motor. Car has PS, PW, PTop, AM radio, Buckets + Auto Console, Deluxe light group, Passenger-side mirror, Wide chrome trim around windows. I installed PDB. Car has gone 12.39 @ 110 and is driven ~5,000 miles a year.

Second one i just couldnt pass by - I stole it from the guy. #'s matching, PS, PB, PW, PTop, Tilt, AM, and.......A/C !!! Although the car is very solid it needs alot....like a top, carpet, door panels, front seat (was a bench....now has pre-'69 buckets). Its got an Offy360 intake and sone Holley on it.......I bought it mainly cause its Solid and has A/C which i've wanted all 10 years I've had the other one.

......Yes, it does rain when it's HOT out !!!!

Mike Trom

02-08-2002, 10:42 AM

I have a '68 GS400 Convertible, Cameo cream color with a white top and white interior, PS, PB, PW, Buckets, AM-FM, Factory 8-track, tilt wheel, Rallye Steering wheel. It also has the factory Buick Rallye wheels with the trim rings, the wheels that look like the all chrome wheel, except mine has stainless trim rings. Yes, they were available in '68 and I can prove it (just a note for any car show judges:rolleyes: ).
The car is #'s matching and I was lucky enough to find two build sheets for the car.

:beer

http://mysite.verizon.net/vzepabj8/sitebuildercontent/sitebuilderpictures/.pond/mt68gs003.jpg.w560h420.jpg

DugsSin

02-08-2002, 02:54 PM

Well it looks like I have the "old" car out of this group so far.
Mine is a '65 Skylark G ranS port Automatic. White exterior, black top and black interior, 14" Road Wheels, PST polygraphite bushings all the way around. Sway bars 1.25" Front, 1" rear. KYB's all around, new springs.
My two kids have never ridden in a convertible and I think they will enjoy that first warm spring day cruising.

:cool:

GallenS

02-08-2002, 04:51 PM

Mine is a 67 GS400 red with white top, black interior. PS / PB and a 455!

My brother has a blue 67 Skylark with white top and interior, 340 auto PB/PS/PW and Air.

Marco

02-08-2002, 05:46 PM

Wayne Roberts

5721 Livernois Rd
Troy MI 48098
248-879-2113

He has all the late 1970 microfiche info that Sloan doesn't have.

Hope this helps those which are trying to document their 1970 models.

:)

Larry Gibson

02-08-2002, 07:02 PM

I have a 70GS 455 convertible that I have had about 5 years. It's an original unmolested 72k mile car that needs the typical work done to it, paint, top, interior, trunk repair. The trunk was the result of the top needing replacement but was ignored. The trunk has now been replaced and looks new.
This is the most original GS I have ever owned. It even came with the protect-o-plate! It is seamist green, white top, white bucket interior with no console but has A/C, tilt,ps,pb,ptop. It had hubcaps but now has 15x7 rallys on it. The car was sold new in Fairborn, Ohio near Dayton and apparently owned by someone stationed at Wright Patterson airbase there as it has a sticker stating "Aircraft Owners Association'.
Although it still needs some attention, I love how it drives with the 455. I have owned a couple of Skylark convertibles with 350's in them but they didn't even come close to the feel this car has.
Hopefully over the next couple of years, I hope to get everything done so that I can drive it to the nationals and show it off. With a 2.56 rear, it's a great cruiser on the highway.

Lon Bauer

02-08-2002, 07:22 PM

Sounds like a sweet car Larry..........good luck....

Thanks Mark....I've seen Wayne's work, looks class "A" with a print out of all the info on a nice format. Price is more than Sloan but probably a must have.........thanks again Mark.....

BTW...Mark...very nice website...

Lon

Kerry s.

02-08-2002, 09:04 PM

Hi Guys,

Look at my sig below.....it's one of the 126 4-speeds built. Has power steering, power disk brakes, power windows, power top, AM/FM, is a non-air car, buckets, short console, map-light rear-view mirror and it IS Triple Black!

Now before the purists get on me here:D (because it undergoing the "transformation" and being one of 126) the car was not in the shape it's in now as when I purchased it. I know the daughter of the original 1st owner and she said her dad blew the original engine less than 6 months after the car was new. I've also talked with several different people who knew this guy and he was hell on the car they said (he had a drinking problem). I'm sure many of you still remember the days BEFORE D.U.I. laws?? Anyway, one of the local body shop owners I know said that he literally had to tell the guy the next time he wrecked it when he was drunk that he was not going to fix it anymore and that it was much too rare of a car to be treated like he treated it. The fenders and bumpers had been changed so many times over it's life he lost count. Luckily he never had a serious wreck with the car, just would run into things when he was parking or pulling out of a bar lot.

The car had a 3.31 posi 12-bolt and a non V.I.N. matching M-21 in it with the wrong clutch fork and puhrod (standard GM cup type like the 350 ones). The guy I purchased it from even had the valve covers on the wrong sides so the breather element in the ram-air cleaner wouldn't match up. TALK ABOUT THE USAGE OF RTV IN EVERY KNOWN CREVIS OF AN ENGINE!?!?!? Knowing that I could never make this a concourse numbers matching car I built it the way I wanted it. Nothing gawdy though.....I'm working to make this transformation as "stock (from a parked outward appearance) looking" as possible.

I'll try and post some pic's soon of what's going on...............:)

TWO72"s

02-08-2002, 09:39 PM

:beer :beer :beer I have a 1972 GS-350 CONV. Black,new paint,new top,chrome,gs badges,tires and 15 buick rallye rims, 2 1/2 " flowmaster exhaust. Still havent got around to re-doing the interior. 80,000 miles. Just a real fun summer cruiser, great on the highway. When I have the need for real power I fire up its big brother 1972 GS462 Black/Gold gsx stripes and go for a blast. One to cruise and one to race, ahhhhhhhhh what a life(LOL)This message is being sent from THE HOME OF THE WORLD CHAMPION NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS. OH YEAHHHHHHHH !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

John W

02-08-2002, 11:47 PM

FWIW, I have a '72 GS 455 Convert, 1 of 126 made. The only options are ps, pb, pw, am radio, bench seat, auto, 3:08 posi and of course the 455/4. Unfortunately, don't have the original trans,but the original engine is on a stand. Presently running a 70 slightly warmed over 455. The car is getting a slow resto with everything (and I mean everything) either being repainted, reconditioned or replaced. The car is presently red in color with white top and not sure if I want to repaint the original color tan metallic. I have had the car for 12 years and was always partial to BUICKS. I drive it when I can and I'm asked as to why my plates say "RARE GS" and I reply " how many of these cars have you seen that can do this" and I stomp on it. Love to see the look on their faces.

Brad Conley

02-09-2002, 07:32 AM

Originally posted by 455power09
Brad since you have a '72 centurion you know the cables that keep the middle bar straight when you raise and lower the top one of mine broke and i am wondering how to fix it? Maybe you can help me, and if you can send me some pictures of your car i would love to see them. Thanks,
Lars.

Lars,

I'll get some pics of it soon. If you don't want to wait and you have the book Muscle Car History Buick Muscle Cars by Bill Holder & Phillip Kunz, my Centurion is the dark green convert with OH plates LLA455, nice double page pic of it in there. It's still wearing it origional top and 90% of its origional paint! It's a real fun "attitude adjustment" car when stresses of job and family start getting to me. BTW, that's our black GSX on the cover of the same book...

added in edit: Sorry, can't help you with the cable. Never been "into" the top yet...

mjs-13

02-09-2002, 10:10 PM

1970 Stage 1 Convertible. Steering,Brakes, Air Conditioning, Tilt, Buckets, Console, Rally suspension, Rally Steering Wheel, Shoulder harness belts, AM-FM, Power top, Gauges, 75 Red with white interior, sold new in Memphis Tn. In Memphis until my purchase. Always a Tennessee Car. #'match engine, Transmission and Correct rearend. Goes like Hell, much faster than my 70 SS 454 Chevelle Convertible!

n2buick

02-09-2002, 10:51 PM

I've got a '70 GS 455 4 speed , non-air car. Someone painted it a ford red several years ago. Hope to go back to the original Sherwood green at some point. Plan on installing the Stage 1 heads from one of our old cars down the road as well.
Jeff

Captain Mark

02-10-2002, 08:23 AM

I have a 1970 GS Convertible clone. Maroon in color. The second owner, and guy I bought it from, bought it off a Buick lot in Amarillo Texas. All the GS stuff was put on the car before he bought it in 1987. He didn't know much about Buicks, he just wanted a ragtop. He always thought this car was an original GS.

I bought the car in 2001. The car was originally a silver Skylark Custom Convertible. (rare color?) It had a 350-4 that is currently being replaced with a sweet, completely rebuilt, 10-1 compression 455 with a beautiful set of chrome headers. It also has PS PB AC.
Black interior is in good shape. Ragtop needs replacing. Car will be repainted. Needs posi and disc brakes.........................I need more money..................

TimR

02-10-2002, 06:12 PM

I am restoring a 72 GS 350 droptop. Its pretty rough right now. Its flame orange, #'s matching, non a/c, PW, PDB, tilt, gauges, front seat shoulder belts(!!), chrome wheels, etc.

Its one of 68 1972 GS convertibles that came to Canada.

It is by far the biggest project I have ever taken on, finding sheetmetal is a nightmare but have everything else (basically). Should go in for bodywork pretty soon, still trying to find a rust free pass door and LH rear quarter (might have to go repro on that but really don't want to)...

I sure hope driving a GS convertible is worth all the time, hassles, and money!!!!! You can check out the progress on my website.

later
Tim

gotbuick

02-10-2002, 08:20 PM

Tim,
I think you will enjoy your GS Convert. just fine. I like the flame orange and shoulder belts. If you were closer I would love to see it and help out with the parts you need. :D

Drop tops are the #1 fun in the sun!!

Driver2

02-10-2002, 11:08 PM

Thanks to a "Chevy guy", I acquired my '70 Skylark Custom Convertible (originally Texas car), for Free! He hated the car, because it was "taking up his '69 Camaro's work space", so he signed the title, put a battery in the car, poured some gas down the carb's throat, and turned the key. First time, started right up (even after sitting outside for a year). Since I've had it, I've driven it daily, and then I sent it to a friend, who had it painted (Dodge Viper GTS BLUE Metallic), after installing the GS Hood and GSX Rear Spoiler. White Top, Black interior. It now has a Rebuilt GS350 engine and TH350 with Street/Strip shift kit!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v327/Hobbyist/ConvertPS.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v327/Hobbyist/ConvertFront.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v327/Hobbyist/ConvertDS.jpg

Daves69

02-12-2002, 08:18 PM

1969 GS 400 Convertible :bglasses: won 1st place at 2000 Nats.

basherbob

02-15-2002, 10:58 AM

Add me in

Traded my 68 GTO (400/4 speed) back in '75 for my '71 GS convertable. Did a frame off in my garage back in '86-'87 and converted from a 350 to 455 (orig'l eng/trans on cradle), nothing fancy just a low 13 second cruiser. Added a 2004R OD in '95 (gained 2 tenths). This car loves to cruise at 80-85 and gets 18 mph while doing it. It's metallic silver w/ black top and interior.

We actually have 4 ragtops (or 5) in the Gateway Chapter (St. Louis).

Been married 18 years and noone but me drives it. My wife still won't drive it. Says she's afraid if she wrecks it I'll divorce her, smart woman ! :beer

r72gs

02-16-2002, 03:00 PM

Got my GS ragtop in '83. I had a 71 Olds that was got wrecked. The quilty party I had loaned the Olds to gave up the GS as part payment for the Olds.
It looked like this:

<img src=http://members.aol.com/r72gs/b1983.JPG>

It looked bad but it only needed a fender, door and a coat of paint.

<img src=http://members.aol.com/r72gs/b1987.JPG>

I've been sold on Buicks and ragtops ever since. The car is currently undergoing a Body off frame resto, can't wait to get back on the road! All the time, money and work is WORTH IT!

65specialconver

02-19-2002, 11:13 AM

mine is 65 special,gold with fawn interior,stock it had white top.i opted for black the second time i replaced it.bought it from original owner who was a bellevue WA cop,in 1975(i was 15)i have over 100,000 miles i have put on this car myself.am on my 3rd motor,same turbo 300,with new seals,hardly a show vehicle but i can work on it damn near blind,know how it is running by listening to it idle,& it gets close to 20 mi per gallon consistantly.i live 43mi north of spokane,6mi from preist river ID,&80mi from Canadia,at an elevation of 2280ft,with population of 2000,with one stoplite(installed 2 yrs ago)with 6 taverns:beer

69GS400s

02-20-2002, 11:19 AM

Originally posted by basherbob
Been married 18 years and noone but me drives it. My wife still won't drive it. Says she's afraid if she wrecks it I'll divorce her, smart woman ! :beer

Too FUnny to pass up.....On my way home one time with my wife in the fast GS with the top down.....and i've got a splitting headache. She wants to stop at the grocery store for a second. In the parking lot, I hop over to the passenger seat as i just cant keep my eyes open any longer.

She comes out.....and gets in the drivers seat saying..."You SURE you want me to drive ?" i say Yeah.....i cant .....

She pulls out onto the road and gets stuck behind a truck making a delivery double parked in the right lane....stopping with enough room to go around once traffic is clear in the left lane. My Eyes are closed and Im oblivious to whats happening......

.......What happens next was like an amusement ride.

I Hear the engine Rev, the Tires Squeeeeel and my head tells me We've just Spun around !!!

Yep - She had the wheel turned to the left and punched it to beat the oncoming traffic and pulled a 270 right on mainstreet Lighting up the tires.

First and last time shes been in the drivers seat :eek:

71ConvtSkylark

02-22-2002, 12:58 PM

Hey, I just purchsed my 71 Skylark Custom(Sky Blue/Black). 100% origional and unmolested it also included ALL the orig docs including the Buick Protecto Plate and Punch Card Build sheet(old IBM Punch Card). It needs the general cosmetic stuff, and on its way to becoming an absolute wicked ride! Gotta find me a 455, although the 350/2 is easy on the wallet. I didn't buy this car for gas mileage though...... This car has air/ps and thats it. This car has its origional floors trunk etc with no rust. Amazing, but true. I drove from FL to NC to get it. I have been in love with these cars for years, and after attending(and taking 2nd in B5) at the 2000 GS Nationals in Beach Bend in my buick 350 powered Chevy Monza I saw the associating of Buick owners and knew it was the ride for me. -Jon

Marco

02-22-2002, 01:37 PM

Originally posted by 71ConvtSkylark
...it also included ALL the orig docs including the Buick Protecto Plate and Punch Card Build sheet(old IBM Punch Card)...Jon -

Can you please post the Buick selling dealership info? Please see THIS LINK (http://www.v8buick.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=294) for additional information.

Thanks!

71ConvtSkylark

02-22-2002, 02:56 PM

Yeah, I will have to scan it in etc.... but it is in perfect condition. It was just sitting in the glove box. Someone really loved this car! It had the origional Buick 350 under the hood, never dissasembled till me, and the only reason I took it apart was because the guy I bought it from said it had a spun bearing. Turns out the flex plate just came apart and probably made a hell of a racket. You should have seen it, crank perfect, cylinders only .002 out of round, and the nylon timing chain was still perfect. I feel so lucky to have found this car. I will get hte docs over the weekend and post them. -Jon

BUQUICK

02-22-2002, 11:30 PM

'67 GS 400 conv, PS, originally had Power Disc brakes (previous owner swapped to drums in 1981!!!! too cheap to fix leaky calipers), body colored rally wheels, P-Windows, P-bench seat, AM radio, 2.93 posi (now 3.55), auto on column, Blue Mist with white interior and black top (originally white top).

Car is mechanically fine, it's stock appearing, runs low 12's all day, but really needs a FULL restoration, I drove it everyday in high school and college and it shows! It's sorta rough now but it adds to the sleeper look I guess....

Bridgford

02-24-2002, 06:44 PM

I have a 1968 Skylark Custom Convertible. I plan on performing a body off frame restoration beginning this summer. Right now, it is just a big pull toy since the previous owner blew the transmission.

67ragtop

02-24-2002, 07:39 PM

67 GS clone, mild 70 455, modified 2004R, 8.5 10 bolt w/ 3.42 gears, YS steering box, eibach springs, 235 BFGs on 15x7 buick ralley rims, looks completely stock. Should be on the road soon.

pakual

03-03-2002, 01:52 AM

70 GS455 Conv. Gulfstream Blue/ White interior. Many options, A/C- Steering- PDB- Gauges with rally clock. AM/FM rear speaker- Tilt wheel- Sport steering wheel- Rally ride control- Road Wheels with white walls, 115k original mile all #'s correct. etc. etc.
JA
http://albums.photo.epson.com/j/ViewPhoto?u=4013494&a=30126046&p=60480487&f=0

Russ Waters

03-03-2002, 08:38 PM

I have a 1970 Skylark Custom Convertible. Originally had a 350 4V 315 HP but was ruined when I purchased it in 98. I've built and installed the 455 (.030) since then and retained the TH-350 tranny.
The car was originally Desert Gold (63) but had been repainted 3 times in its life. I have stripped the car to bare metal and am finishing up the primer coats now. Color will be GM Forest Green Metallic base coat/clear coat. Dark saddle interior, Power disc brakes, power windows, 4-way power seat, A/C, tinted glass and 15 X 7 rally wheels. 2.73 non-posi, though. Gotta change that soon.
Haven't I seen most of you on the GSCA site before????

Russ Waters
Villa Rica, GA

quickstage1

03-03-2002, 08:49 PM

I have a '70 GS 455 convetible. It's a 4-speed car with no power brakes, no power steering, no air conditioning. Original color was Diplomat Blue with White top and interior. It needs restored but for now it's just a driver.

TURCH

03-05-2002, 05:37 PM

Just completed frame off resto on my 71 gs convertible. 455 stage1 specs.

John Bowers

03-05-2002, 07:01 PM

Hey I know it's only a clone but i went to great effort and detail to make an exact copy,if Buick
would have made a conv GSX this is what it would have been. Pearl white paint,pearl white interior
white top. 455,turbo400,3.08 posi,heavy duty sway
bars,buckets,console am/fm,8 track,speed alert,
maplite mirror,power windows,tilt wheel,sport
wheel,power trunk,all spoilers and decals(except
the damn dash emblem even a repop would be nice).
I finally got my avator to work the pic is a
month old so I still have more parts I have added since this

Sincerely John

71Custom455

03-08-2002, 12:33 PM

I drive a 1971 Buick Skylark Custom Convertible with the following improvements: Pertronix ignition, Poston S-Divider intake, Edelbrock 750 carb, K&N open element filter, Poston GS350-114 cam, headers, 2.5" exhaust, DynoMax Super Turbo mufflers, fast ratio steering box, JW Performance 2500 stall, 8.5 10 bolt posi rear w/3.23 gears. New top, bucket seats, Autometer gages, center console, 70 GS hood and front disc brakes. With more improvements to come!

TimR

03-08-2002, 09:54 PM

Wow, guys, you have some really nice rides!:beer

Tim

The Old Guy

03-10-2002, 07:09 PM

I have a 72 GS 455 . It is flame orange with a white top . it has AC power steering ,brakes and windows. it also has a .030 over 455 with Stage one heads ,an Edelbrock B4B and a 118 cam. the trans is a 200-R4 anit runs a 3.31 twelve bolt rear end

thepartsman

03-17-2002, 10:36 AM

I've got a 71 GS 350 convt. Found on a used car lot in north Ga. Colors were changed by former owner to red an white so it would look good in parades.I've spent the last few years correcting the problems that sent the car to the "used car lot" in the first place. Options include power windows and power bench seat........Nothing compares to the sound of a GS with the top down cruising thru the country side on an early spring evening........woops,sorry, I forgot there is still winter in other parts of the country.

David

Screaming Snail

03-17-2002, 04:15 PM

1965 Skylark GS convertible, just purchased in Jan. 2002. A minor project. In the process of painting and getting ready for Cruisin'. Any others in the Ohio, Western PA or Western NY area with convertibles? Need to compare tops and maybe some Cruisin'!!!!!

dryskip

04-04-2002, 08:57 PM

In the process of taking on another Buick. 1971 GS455 Convert with factory 4-speed. It is a rust bucket right now, but will be a good 'company car' when my boys get done with it. I plan to document the restoration on the buickperformance site. btw, they only made 18 of these:eek2:

goof

04-09-2002, 04:57 AM

My car is a 72 GS350 automatic, original CA car. It is painfully stock :-) in the original "gold" exterior with white top and interior. Only options I'm aware of are power top, power steering, air conditioning, and rally clock. I currently live in Fairfield California but will be moving to San Antonio Texas in June. Either local is great for cruising and should be kind to my nearly rust free car! I am planning to paint it either a stratomist blue, dodge viper blue, or just saw a picture of gulfmist blue. Decisions, decisions, decisions...:Brow:

JerryF

04-20-2002, 12:43 PM

Mine is a 1970 GS 455 Conv't. It's a 4 speed with power disc brakes and power steering, no a/c . The color is Bamboo Cream with a Burnished Saddle bucket seat interior. And I have to say just backing her out of the garage puts a huge smile on my face!

WIMPY65

04-27-2002, 12:01 AM

I bought my wife a 72 GS 350 Convertible that I found sitting in a Barn for 15 year's. It is very original and untouched.We are the 3rd owner's. 56,000 miles, p/s,p/b,a/c,tilt,auto trans. I had to winch it on the trailer but when I got home 2 1/2 hrs. later I had it running and drove it off the trailer. It is Burnished Copper with Saddle Brown interior and a White top. We love it, she drive's it on every nice day that she can. I plan to start restoring it this late summer and hope to finish it before the 2003 National's. She wishes to drive it to the nat's for her first big trip. I hope I can work that hard, because I am having to much fun driving it now. It is not perfect but everywhere we go it is "thumb's up" from everyone.

realdealHurst

05-08-2002, 04:02 AM

:TU: 67 Cutlass Convertable. Plain Jane, 330 motor, ST 300 tranny, 3.08 Anti spin rear, bench seat, column shift. One cool cruiser. I think I'll go for a ride.:grin:

RagTop69GS

05-11-2002, 07:38 PM

This is our 69'GS. We bought it 5 years ago with 68,000 on the clock.

http://www.flash.net/~stanbrad/69gs012a.jpg

gotbuick

05-13-2002, 06:24 PM

Jay, I'd be smiling too if it were me in the driver's seat.:grin: Looks Good!!

RagTop69GS

05-13-2002, 09:10 PM

That's my 12 yr old daughter sitting in there wishing she was old enough to drive. :stmad: When I told her my insurance on it won't let anyone under 25 drive it she was not a happy camper. :ball:

:Do No:

Jim Jones

05-14-2002, 03:06 PM

'70 GS455, Black (at least it's supposed to be, it's in primer now)w/white top, white buckets, TH400 with console, Tach and Guages, AC, PT, PS, PDB (still has the original master cylinder), POSI, Tilt, Chrome wheels, Lighting group, Etc. I was able to obtain Sloan Museum documentation for this car.

I brought the car home 2 years ago in boxes. Trouble is, there were not enough boxes. The car is missing lots of parts. I was told by the owner that he had everything for the car except the grille, but at the end of an 11 hour drive I found parts in short supply. I had to bunjee cord the top frame to the seat frames, and tie the doors together to hold everything closed so it could be trailered home. There were no latches on the car. The seller told me to send him a list of what was missing, and he would send the parts to me. HA!...I have contacted him three times, twice by mail, with no results. If the car had not had a lot of the rarer parts with it (fan shroud, master cylinder, tach and guages) I would have come home without it. I guess the price was right though, and the car was almost exactly the way I would have ordered one new in 1970. (Oh that elusive stage 1 option!)

Sorry to ramble on about this....Let the buyer beware.

RagTop69GS

05-14-2002, 04:16 PM

Hi Jim,

U have any pics of the project? What parts are u still looking for ?

Sounds like a nice ride

:TU:

Jim Jones

05-15-2002, 06:12 AM

Jay,

I don't currently have any photos, but the car is partially disassembled and the restoration is on hold until I finish the SA drive train for my GSX. I have attached a PARTIAL list of parts needed for the convertible, but I am inclined to pick up a donor car (if I can find one) to be sure I get all the parts I need.

MARTINSR

05-17-2002, 11:17 PM

'65 Gran Sport Convertible made right here in Fremont.

The Old Guy

05-18-2002, 07:45 AM

72 GS 455 Convert. Flame orange with white top and interior. Bucket seats ,console, AC ,power steering ,brakes and windows. 3.31 posi with a 200-4R trans, headers with 2 1/2 exhaust and flowmasters

RagTop69GS

05-18-2002, 05:53 PM

Hi Joe,

Sounds like a nice collection of cars for an Old Guy :laugh:

The Old Guy

05-18-2002, 07:14 PM

Thanx!! Some of us NEVER grow up.
I have been told that growing old is mandatory,but growing up is an option that I have not used yet:beer

Brewser455

05-23-2002, 11:15 PM

Hi All,
New poster, long time reader. Mines a 70 GS 455 Conv, AT, AC,4way PWR bench, POSI, PS, PB, and soon to have PW, PL, and Ptrunk release. The car is red(w/black left FRT fender) w/white top and interior. I hope to have it all one color soon.

First time down the track was last October at Milan, Ran a 13.79 @ 101.8 MPH, No tach and shifting on the column by ear. At Norwalk for Buick racedays ran a 13.29 @ 102.9 same shifting style. Both times on a set of Kelly Chargers.

I guess I'm out for the fun cause I pull into the track, empty the trunk and off I go to race. I've never tuned it for racing or lowered tire pressure, just do the roundy round thing. First time at Milan Made 15 passes in 4 hours and at Norwalk made 26 passes on Friday. I guess I'm making up for 18 years of owning the car and not having it road ready.

Take care all! Remember geting there is half the fun:grin:

RagTop69GS

05-24-2002, 04:04 AM

Brewster, Welcome to the Board. Does everyone around here have a convertable ? A neighbor down the street has a 70' conv. also. You may have seen it around it's a BlackCherry color GS ?

I am at Green Lk. Rd. & Richardson. Only about a burnout away from ya. :laugh:

Well gotta go to work now

Later, Jay

Brewser455

05-24-2002, 05:39 AM

Hi Jay,

Thanks for the welcome! Saw the pictures of your '69 looks like a sweet ride.
I work in Auburn Hills, so depending on which way I go to work, I probably pass pretty darn close to your house. I'm in the Benstein & Glengary area.

Do you ever go up to Baker's, in Milford, for the Sunday car show? I haven't been there yet this year but last year they had tons of cars on a nice day. Well I better get going to work myself!

Take care

RagTop69GS

05-24-2002, 03:05 PM

Hi Bruce,

If you come down Green Lk Rd. on your way home you pass within 4 houses of me. After u pass between the lakes my street is at the top of the hill just past the foot bridge. Auburn Hills eh
U work at DCTC ?

Who in the area hasn't gone to Bakers. We get up there 1-2 times a month if it's not too hot out. I don't like roasting on that hot blacktop lot :eek2: Bakers is one of the best cruise nites 'cept for Pampa Lanes over on the east side.

We'll all have to get together one nite with the GS's and hit the area cruises. Wadda ya think ?

I've got a little engine problem with the GS right now but hope to have it right soon,I think I have 2 frozen rings from the winter layover. and my buddy down the block is doin a 455 transplant within the next few weeks, but we'll be rolling soon :Do No:

Later

Brewser455

05-24-2002, 08:57 PM

Jay,
No I don't work at DCTC, but I can see it from where I'm at. I work right across from the Silverdome.

Yeah getting together sounds like a good idea! I've heard alot about Pampa's, never made it though. My car isn't quite show material, needs a new top and interior on top of a paint job :o

I gonna try to make it into Pontiac on Wednesday next week for the Power tour stop. If weather is decent I'll probably take the Buick. Went last year, when it started there, was pretty cool for the short time I was there(for lunch, didn't eat).

My Drive train is pretty much set though I do have a slight over heating problem. I've already put in a Griffin aluminum radiator and I've got a electric fan waiting to be installed. Just another day in the life.

Take care

RagTop69GS

05-24-2002, 10:08 PM

Bruce,

Ours isn't show quality yet either but I don't let that stop me.
My top could use replacement also. looks brand new except for a tear right at the cantilever because the idiot who installed it didn't know what he was doing. Kevin knows a guy in the area that does real nice interior and trim work when your ready.
I wasn't aware the Power Tour was coming thru here this year.
If I can get my engine right by then maybe we could join ya?

I know what ya mean, it never ends. sorta like a boat...Ya keep throwing money into it till it
S
I
N
K
S

:beer

Brewser455

05-25-2002, 01:47 PM

Jay,
Hope all goes well with your engine work. I'm going to try and install my electric fan over the long weekend, but the honeydo list is pretty long. Too many interuptions in the normal flow this spring, so I've fallen behind on the list.

The power tour is suppossed to arrive early Wednesday afternoon.(around 2PM according to the schedule) I don't know if I'll come home or go right from work. Last year they closed the whole area down inside the Woodward loop and all the cars parked there it was real cool. Let me know how it goes with the car. Getting close to the drop of the puck, time to turn on the tube to watch the Wings.

Take care

RagTop69GS

05-25-2002, 07:05 PM

Bummer Man. The Wings blew that one. Played like they wanted to lose.

I'll let ya know how the engine goes. Good luck with the fans.

Them honeydo lists can be overwhelming at times. I know first hand.

Jock67Skylark

05-27-2002, 08:59 AM

Mine is a 67 Skylark Convt. in the process of becoming a GS clone. I dropped a 455 with a 200-4r in and added disc brakes, huge sway bars, boxed control arms, posi and 3.55's. The underside is finished. Now I'm preparing to get rid of the awful yellow cream paint job my wife put on it in High School. Going back to the original red with black interior. Jock :TU:

dryskip

06-01-2002, 07:57 PM

I did indeed get the 1971 GS455 4-speed convert. I checked out some of the numbers today. Checked the VIN, carb and engine. Engine is numbers match to VIN and carb number is also correct. Restoration is commencing, but I can't stand that (S)lime Mist. Here is a picture of it when it arrived from Chicago.

RagTop69GS

06-01-2002, 10:06 PM

Nice find Skip. Not many of those produced. Looks like a lot of work but The finished product will be worth it. Good luck with the resto. :TU:

Russ Waters

06-03-2002, 05:57 AM

A find of a lifetime, to be sure.
How could someone neglect this car like that?!! Let us know what color it will be.
Russ
1970 Skylark Convertible 455

stage-x

06-03-2002, 10:15 AM

Hey Rag Top 69....Tell that guy with the Black Cherry car good luck, parts are coming...:Brow: Tell him also, they're only 799.00....Then he'll know who it is...

RagTop69GS

06-03-2002, 07:39 PM

Stage X,

I'll let him know. He,ll be wondering how I knew :grin: Are you his Bro ? I know he has family in GA. I'll let ya know his response.

There are not many BlackCherry 70's around.

:TU:

stage-x

06-04-2002, 12:01 PM

Not his bro but his step bro, (his brother is my oldest son)...Get him to explain it...I was up at his house a little over a month ago and picked up a white 70 GSX...I guess I needed more therapy, so another car to restore. Check out www.thenandnowclassicauto.com.
Mark

RagTop69GS

06-04-2002, 12:59 PM

Mark,
He was puzzled at first as to how I knew the parts were coming till I told him how I knew. :laugh: He's having 'puter troubles right now. I'm going over to try and grt it running again.

SpecialWagon65

06-06-2002, 07:03 PM

Lets see if this works...

gotbuick

06-06-2002, 08:36 PM

Now that's one WILDcat!!:Brow:

skylurk

07-06-2002, 06:50 AM

Here's my '70 custom. Original color was sherwood green, but it was painted hugger orange? years ago. I'd like to keep it a factory '70 color, any suggestions?

Matt

TimR

07-06-2002, 07:04 AM

Matt, you have a black interior so the choices are wide open......any chance you could send me some pics of your car to ritc1@shaw.ca ??

My 72 GS is flame orange and I'm trying to decide if I like the black interior or not with it. I won't change the color, but interior is another matter(it was originally saddle). Would love to see some 3/4 angle shots, maybe a direct side shot, front and back, etc...then I can play with wheels and things too.

There sure are some nice cars in this thread!!

Thanks
Tim

Marco

07-06-2002, 10:09 AM

skylurk said:Here's my '70 custom. Original color was sherwood green, but it was painted hugger orange? years ago. I'd like to keep it a factory '70 color, any suggestions?

Matt

Hi Matt -

I'd suggest spraying it in the original Sherwood Green - It's a beautiful color!:laugh: :laugh: :laugh:
:beer

TimR

07-06-2002, 10:16 AM

Hey Marco, how is the registry progressing so far???

Original colors are neat, it is surprising to see how a car looks when a color you don't like (such as the very common light green) is fresh...can look beautiful.

I think a sea foam mist ragtop would be beautiful too....

later
Tim

skylurk

07-06-2002, 01:44 PM

TimR said:Matt, you have a black interior so the choices are wide open......any chance you could send me some pics of your car to ritc1@shaw.ca ??

My 72 GS is flame orange and I'm trying to decide if I like the black interior or not with it. I won't change the color, but interior is another matter(it was originally saddle). Would love to see some 3/4 angle shots, maybe a direct side shot, front and back, etc...then I can play with wheels and things too.

There sure are some nice cars in this thread!!

Thanks
Tim

You have mail!

Black interior works for me except for those really hot days :stmad: OUCH!! THAT'S HOT!! I don't recommend white, the car would look like a giant creamcycle. :puzzled: :laugh:

Marco

07-06-2002, 08:17 PM

TimR said:Hey Marco, how is the registry progressing so far???

Original colors are neat, it is surprising to see how a car looks when a color you don't like (such as the very common light green) is fresh...can look beautiful.

I think a sea foam mist ragtop would be beautiful too....

later
Tim
Hi Tim -

So far, so good with the registry. I get a couple trickling in now and again. I usually solicit people when I see a Stage1 in their signature.

I should really write an article for the GS-X-tra and the Build Sheet to generate more interest.

I don't have any pictures of a convertible, but here is 1970 Seamist Green. Enjoy!

Mike Atwood

07-06-2002, 11:27 PM

Marco said:

Hi Matt -

I'd suggest spraying it in the original Sherwood Green - It's a beautiful color!:laugh: :laugh: :laugh:
:beer

I'd have to agree with that..... but I might be biased.:Do No:

NvrDun

07-18-2002, 11:17 PM

Here is my 72 that I just picked up.

Needs plenty but if I can drive it an enjoy it as I prepare for the restoration that would be my goal.

thanks
Rich

toogeez

07-19-2002, 04:14 PM

I have a 1972 Buick Skylark Convertible. I bought the car from an older lady in the Chicago area. The car was pretty beat up when I got it 3 years ago. Since getting it out here in California, I have managed to repaint, new top(got the car back last week),and get alot of little parts replaced, but those little parts seem to add up in cost. Not too many options....power brakes,steering and top is about all I got. Rebuilt 350 about 5000 miles ago. The color is Blue Razzbery, with white top and interior.:beer

'71buickg.s.

07-21-2002, 09:37 PM

My dad recently bought a '71 custom that the second owner cloned into a g.s it has pb ps pw and power bench seat here are some mods: 455 bored to 462 10:1 hyperutectic pistons, forged rods 116 cam, balanced, line honed, deck plated, ported heads, stage 1 springs, 800 cfm q jet, chrome headers on 2 1/2in. exhaust with flowmaster muffers, swtch pitch 400 tans w/ shift kit new radiator and shroud,and 3.08 posi the man we purchased it from said that it produced 400 to 450 hp

it is deep red with a white interior (soon to be black) and top we bought it in houston and live in hamilton ohio (near cincinnati)

it also has cruise control and 15K miles since cloned

now has a poston rebuilt 850cfm q jet and a vinyl boot we decided to keep the interior original also lets see if im smart enough to post a pic

jeff bullock

07-23-2002, 03:18 AM

i picked my 71 skylark custom ragtop up for $ 3,200 back in '99. it needed a new top a couple new valves on passenger head but otherwise was in pretty good shape.bought it from a guy in oklahoma city.he was pretty much a poncho guy gto's , firebirds and such.it belonged to a guy in the peace corps back in mid 70's and sold it to this guy where it sat in a barn for 11 years. he got it running, flushed all fluids including tank, but i still had to replace it after all.the car was for his daughter(16yrs old but it scared the bejesus out of her,hence his selling it. i have never been happier with any other cars. previously owned a 72 2 dr post and have been hooked on the bu's ever since.currently it is the #'s matching engine & i believe tranny.it has the tuxedo black body with white top(convrt.)front split bench but currently has white electric leather buckets out of 94 cougar (BUford). i have collected gs emblems here and there and stupid me traded the original q-jet for an original gs steering wheel,still a good deal in my book.easier to find a good q-jet than an original rallye steering wheel

richopp

07-26-2002, 08:39 AM

Hi--
Now that I have a few minutes--I have a '72 GS Stage 1 Convertible I purchased new. It is the third GS I bought new--'70 350/black/black (car was totaled a few months after I traded it in 1971); '71 350 Platnium Mist/black/black (car was around several years ago but engine was replaced and the owner wanted way too much for it for restoration to be reasonable); and the one I kept, the '72. Car is fire red/black/black and has the usual stuff but no power seats or windows. In '72 those things were a bit expensive for my salary so I chose the engine option instead, of course.

Car won National AACA 2nd in 2000 in Ft. Lauderdale and I have hopes for a National 1st in 2004 when the AACA Nationals return. I just can't afford to take it to BG, but I try to go up every other year or so with my local Buick friends.

Memories include inability to hook-up when it was new but great ability to wipe everything it met once the TH400 hit 2nd. I ate Mopars, 'vettes (yes, even L-81s), and almost every other car we met on the street. I think I lost to someone once, but don't remember that clearly...

Fun story: after I moved from Chapel Hill to West Palm Beach in '72, the mechanic at the dealership (Schumacher) loved to rebuild the carb and take us out on I-95 to test it. The road from Okeechobee Blvd south was finished but not open yet. He would drive around the barricades and we would roll down to Forest Hill Blvd and back, with him getting out and making an adjustment every now and then. I don't know how fast we went, but the speedo was buried most of the time. Ahhh, the good old days...

Everyone I have met over the past 10 years or so after I found the GSCA has been really great except for one guy who stole $$ from me
(HOW ARE YOU DOING,
Dave Holgate
18705 Norborne
Redford, MI 48240
(Fordkiller@worldnet.att.net)THIEF?)

I would upload a picture but I am technically challenged and don't know how! If you would like one, please send me a note and I will be happy to send one off.

That's it for now; it is great to be part of the Buick "family"!

Regards to all,

Richard

Marco

07-26-2002, 08:46 AM

richopp said:...I would upload a picture but I am technically challenged and don't know how! If you would like one, please send me a note and I will be happy to send one off...

Hi Richard, and welcome to the V8Buick board!

If anyone wants to see Richard's beautiful red Stage1 convertible, please click here (http://mywebpages.comcast.net/455stage1/GSpictures.htm#1972gs). Richard was kind enough to send me a picture of his GS and I posted it on my website :TU:

gscalifornia

08-08-2002, 06:54 PM

Here's my new project. Lucky for me it came with
NOS GM front fenders, door skins, and rear quarters. :beer:

I'll be installing a '73 455 that came with it and the original trans was rebuilt. I may swap that out for a newer overdirve trans though. This one will be the highway cruiser!! :TU:

The only thing that I've found missing so far is the shift cable for the floor console.

Ken

65specialconver

08-11-2002, 12:06 PM

i have one!!

SpecialWagon65

11-04-2002, 06:33 PM

These cars make me miss that warm weather...

dualqwad

11-04-2002, 06:45 PM

Okay, so it aint a Buick:gt:
But you were asking about convertibles, right?:TU:

RagTop69GS

11-04-2002, 10:06 PM

SpecialWagon65,

Warm weather is nice but Cruising with the top down and a light coat with the heater on, on a cool fall day is a nice way to enjoy the colors of the trees.:TU: I ride my snowmobiles in -10 F without the luxury of a heater so a cruise in the Buick is no big deal so long as there is no salt on the roads.

:beer

Jay

i51gmc

11-05-2002, 12:10 PM

When I joined this group, I was just into the motors for my hotrods (322 nailhead and a 401 Nailhead).
But alas the bug has bitten, actually taken a chomp! I now have a 65 skylark convertible and a for now parts car 65 special convertible. the reason i use for now is the specials body is in better shape than the skylark, but the skylark has a mint interior and is in running and driving condition. the other reason is I have a correct for 65 lt401 gs motor and trans and the original vinplate from the wrecked gs. by the standards listed elsewear in this list I now have the makings of a gs convertible (matching numbers and all)

sore loser

11-05-2002, 09:50 PM

I have a 69 custom.

462CID

11-06-2002, 09:39 AM

Mine's an early '70 Skylark Custom convertible, Gulfstream blue, originally Bamboo Cream (ug), originally had the 350-2bbl, TH350, 10 bolt 2.56:1 rear, bench seats, power roof, brakes, and steering, windsheild antenna, hood and rear deck chrome, other options too probably, but I can't tell, since I don't have the build sheet and I'm the 4th owner. Now she's got a '74 455 bored to 462, 10:1 forged pistons, mild cam, headers, HEI, Edelbrock intake and 800 cfm carb, 12 bolt 3.31:1, bucket seats, and a whole bunch more blah blah boring stuff. Car has been in Massachusetts since '69, when it was sold new at Smyly Buick. The car still had a Smyly towing service sticker on the glove box lid when i got it in '89.

MikeM

11-06-2002, 11:48 AM

Mine's a '71GS350 (Stage1 badges for some reason) bittersweet mist and white, AC, N25. 55K orig miles, resprayed but otherwise all original. I always liked this color combo - it's NOT hugger orange.

462CID

11-06-2002, 01:05 PM

Dryskip- I am looking at an original GS455 ad right now. The car is Platinum mist. Nice color. My favorite is Gulfstream blue, but the Platinum mist is a striking paint job.

richopp

11-07-2002, 02:22 PM

skylurk and 462CID:

I had three new--a black 70, a platinum mist '71 and a fire red '72 (still have the '72). All had black interior. My suggestions:

Platinum mist is a beautiful color--it fades a bit if you don't keep it inside, of course. My red that I still have is red--what else can you say about it? My all time favorite is triple black, however. But if it is dusty where you live it really is a pain.

I always wanted a triple white, but I live in Florida now and you can understand why. If you keep a black interior I suggest either triple black or platinum mist--that is a very rare color I believe, and looks great with black.

Also love the blue/white mix, but you do see a bunch of those around.

Now, if you change the interior, I would certainly go triple white, but that's just my dream!!

Have fun and post a pic when you have it done!

bmcmillan

11-07-2002, 02:40 PM

Hello;

My wife and I own a 1972 GS conv 455
Originally a 350, I dropped in 1972 Buick Riv motor
My personal best ET 14.014 @ 97.00
I even let my Wife race her, She has gotten
into the 14's Also.
Have you hugged your Buick lately!

Buickone

11-09-2002, 05:04 PM

You know, I used to know this guy who sold Buick parts with me in a dealership in Marietta in the 80's.........But this can't be the guy 'cause he got married and didn't have any Buicks when he was single.......

:laugh:

pakual

11-09-2002, 07:55 PM

Dryskip- I am looking at an original GS455 ad right now. The car is Platinum mist. Nice color. My favorite is Gulfstream blue, but the Platinum mist is a striking paint job.

My Conv. is Gulfstream Blue with white top/interior. This color is my favorite with white a close second. Of course red, black and yellow are great also.
Take a look at mine.
Thx
JA

MARTINSR

11-10-2002, 04:21 PM

Jon, your Gran Sport (GS didn't appear until 1967 I believe) id plate would have to be from a GS convertible to work.

Electra Dave

11-12-2002, 05:30 PM

Newbie here...I have a 67 Electra 225 Convertible. It is currently in process since my brother blew the motor after my dad died and his wife gave it to him. AAAARRRRGGGHHHH, but I'm not bitter, I eventually got it from him after it was about to be auctioned since he didn't pay the darn storage fees. OUtside storage, no cover for 5 years....you can imagine....I'll take some picts soon.

I live in Sunny SO. Cal, so when I get it going, it will be the family Sunday ride.

Ken Mild

11-12-2002, 08:23 PM

SpecialWagon65 said:Lets see if this works...

Wow, I just love those old Wildcats man. :TU:

i51gmc

11-13-2002, 05:16 PM

MARTINSR said:Jon, your Gran Sport (GS didn't appear until 1967 I believe) id plate would have to be from a GS convertible to work.

Yes, what i ment is the vin plate was off of a real 65 gs convert thats where i got the engine.
jon P

1wildcat

11-13-2002, 11:02 PM

Just addin' to long list of drop tops. Got me a '70 Wildcat. Original poop brown with white interior. Auto top stopped working so it's manual now! But as you know, nothin' better than the wind in your hair - it dosen't matter how much hair you lose as long as you don't lose the race! Whoooooo!

tlivingd

11-15-2002, 12:53 AM

Hey i got one now too..

Yes it needs work. but im graduating with a degree in Mechanical Engineering in about 6 months. so thats when it begins when i can find the job in this lousy econo.

it is a early 1970 (built sept 1969) found the print out hidden in the dash in the front left corner.

It has a 350/2 AC and thats it. still has original 4 wheel drum brakes and no assist.

my buddy found this in florida (or it found him) if you notice in the pic at the bottom is his 71 GS.
Mine has 138k miles on it drove it from central florida to milwaukee WI in Tenn. the rear brake line broke (exaust hanger broke and it fell onto the brake line.) got it to kentucky and had it fixed for 20 bucks on a sunday.

plans for it. in this order get the 350 running much better (maybe 4bbl dual exaust) suspension/brake work (I don't have a rear torsion bar. interior back to white, new wheels (looking toward 17") new white top and paint.

Chris Lott

11-15-2002, 08:15 AM

Looks good! Also, you might want to put your name in your signature (where you wrote "currently own...") so that we know who we are talking to!:Comp:

hemikillerstg1

11-15-2002, 10:55 AM

OK here it is in all it's unfinished glory..........
I will be adding more pics as I get them, It should be painted by Christmas. New floors, trunk, quarters, and my life savings :TU:

Check it out
www.integraonline.com/~stratcat

Smartin

01-05-2003, 07:32 PM

71 Centurion Convertible! New to my family:grin:

All original - unmolested
White ext.
Blue Int.
455-4
AC
Tilt Wheel
Cruise Control
Power Windows
Power Seats
AM/FM Radio
Rust Free CA Car!

Can't wait to get my hands greasy with it:Brow:

It's already a pretty car. Some of you might have seen it on Traderonline.com.

tlivingd

01-05-2003, 08:49 PM

Your sailing away... and i dont know the rest of the song..

most excelent purchase.

Nate

Smartin

01-05-2003, 09:08 PM

Thanks Nate!

When are you tearing into your Convertible??

We would love to see some pics in the process!

Adam

jeff hammons

01-05-2003, 09:19 PM

My conv it a 64 lark with the kp engine. red with white top and white interior with black trim. In Tulsa Oklahoma where I am we can drive the car most of the year weather permitting. It does have a/c but it does not do very well. We rely on the top down.

tlivingd

01-05-2003, 09:43 PM

I'm not looking to do a complete 100 point resto on it. I want some of my own ideas in it.

although i did replace the timing chain along with all the gaskets for the timing cover (i didnt have a main seal left)
rebuilt the oil pump added a booster plate.

I also replaced the heater core and blower motor.

got finished about a week ago with all that. I had to fix the convertable top lines. there still kinda shoddy but they'll work for now.

since im still in school the interior is going to have to wait.
I'm going to do custom door panels along with bringing it back to the factory pearl interior.

i'm also planing on rebuilding the carb (2bbl) or biding on a 2bbl that i found on ebay thats going cheap to get me by till I can dump some more money into it. I'll get it running good with what it has fix the interior (maybe paint or jump to some performance we'll see what happens after the new or rebuilt carb)

although i did screw up some paint pulling the fender off.. but the paint isnt perfect anyway..

there aint much to photograph. yet.. though it is at my parents house and he just got a nice new digital camera for christmas... so maybe i will be posting some when i get it back in the garage.

Nate

Smartin

01-05-2003, 10:04 PM

The larks and GS's didn't have hte scissor top did they? I know the full size buicks did. My Centurion has the scissor top and it needs a complete overhaul. Something I didn't expect to see when I bought it.

Where do you go to school? It's been a real pain trying to keep my LeSabre running while taking 18 hours of class. I am ready to move on to another project that will at least be worth my time...a convertible is a lot more sought after than a 4dr sedan with hail damage:)

Adam

tlivingd

01-06-2003, 06:18 AM

No i woulden't call it a sissor scissor top but someone else may.. im not to sure.

I'm just about half way done with my sr. year at the Milwaukee School of Engineering. I'm studying Mechanical Engineering Technology. basicly its a mechanical engineer with less calculus.

I'm interning at Briggs and Stratton now and the money is decent but I'm waiting for something else to open up they are allowing me to stay as an intern there untill something opens up or I find something else come graduation.

How about yourself?

Nate

Smartin

01-06-2003, 07:45 AM

I just graduated from Southern IL Unviersity-Edwardsville with a Music Business degree but I am currently working on a 2 year old Irrigation sompany with a partner. We started the company after my sophomore year in college and it's going great so far, so we'll see how it grows.

The scissor top opens different than most tops. Instead of the frames folding straight back they fold inward towards the middle of the car and they use a non-hydraulic motor to move the top. So you'll see cables and electric motors running it instead of pumps and fluid.

Adam

jnorth

01-06-2003, 08:33 AM

I have a 71 Skylark Convertable and a 71 Chevelle convertable as well.

2manybuicks

01-06-2003, 04:57 PM

Hey I got one ride outa five that's respectable!

69 GS 400 Convertible, Crystal Blue Exterior / White Top / White Interior. 4-Speed, Buckets, PS, PB, PT, AC, AM/FM. Hope the picture makes it...

Steve

2manybuicks

01-06-2003, 05:17 PM

My 1969 GS 400 -- Second try at the photo ...

Steve

GS1

01-06-2003, 11:46 PM

Hello,
I enjoyed looking these posts over.

If you don't have it, you should get (or ask for a present as I did this Christmas) the following book Brad Conley mentions on page 2 or 3 of this thread:

Buick Muscle Cars by Bill Holder and Phillip Kunz, ISBN 0-7603-0153-0. Brad is too modest, in addition to having his Centurian pictured, he was also a technical advisor for the book and wrote a Foreword. It also has a detailed section on GS, GSX, etc. as well as all Buick muscle. Nice work Brad!

A couple of stories I was reminded of as I read about your cars. I bought mine in 82 while a sophomore in college. Dad borrows it one day not long after the purchase and returns saying "be careful with that car." I respond, "I am careful." He says "I really mean it." Of course I always have been easy on it; enjoy riding in it more than working on it! A few years later in a moment of weakness, he spills the truth about his early caution: while pulling out to pass another car, he gets on to it and the posi brings the rear around... he is a good driver and keeps it on the road.

Another time he borrows the car and it returns with a broken speedo cable!??!

As for others driving the car, my wife didn't want to for the longest time, now enjoys the attention she gets when driving it and is much harder on it than I am!

My brother on the other hand had his one and only chance to drive it. Borrowed it exactly one week after my purchase to go to a going away party for a friend of his joining the army. I foolishly let him take the car. He normally drove a welded and bondoed 70 Nova SS 350, 4 speed and 4:11 posi that would literarily stand on its a** and peal the hides. He was good at it also, too good as it turns out. The next day I start my car and it has a tapping sound. My father and I are in denial and we drive it to the local gas station to put some "leaded high test" gas in it thinking that was what it needed (lead for the valves? I don't know what we were thinking). About 0.5 miles from home, the tap turns into an all out rap. I keep driving, nursing it the rest of the drive home, park it and literally cry. After two days, I get my courage up and pull the left valve cover. I find a broken valve spring (in three places) that has completely collapsed, the keepers have fallen out, the rocker arm has slid on the shaft and the rapping was the pushrod hitting the valve cover. The valve is sitting right there in the seat. I can't believe my eyes and I can't believe the engine is in one piece. I buy a KD valve compression tool that uses air pressure through the spark plug hole and replace all the valve springs with new Stage 1 springs as well as replaced the bent push rod. The valve cover still has the visible scars. To this day I don't know why it didn't suck that valve into the engine! And to this day, my brother has never driven my car again! A few years later, a friend of his says to me, "you should have seen your brother grab 4 gears of rubber between the length of two telephone poles with your car." hmmmmmmmm, that explains a lot!

Fast forward a couple of years: my brother and I are returning home from college. I left before him not knowing his schedule. He catches up to me about 6 miles from home (45 mile drive). I would never race him even though he asked often but on this day due to a brotherly squabble we had the previous day (can you say doughnut in the middle of the gravel parking lot where we both were staying with his lightweight bondo bucket on steroids spraying gravel all over the place??? grow up already!!), there was no way I was going to let him by me. I drove 6 miles with my eyes in the rear view mirror and my right hand on the shifter waiting for the nose of that Nova to show the slightest lift. He never tried it and the match was never held. Probably a good thing, we can both still live to tell the story! I think he knew those 4:11 gears were no match for the road we had in front of us and of course, he knew from his own experience about the horses under the hood.

You will really like this part. He now has a 74 Nova SS he wants to restore. He just bought a 69 Wildcat for the motor. He wants to put the 430 in the Nova!!!! If he ever gets to it, he might be able to keep up with me with that unibody powered by Buick!

GS1

edk

01-17-2003, 07:15 PM

guess im a little late because i didnt see the post. I have a 68GS400 matching number car. Its charcoal metallic (silver) with a black top and interior.ed

opeltwinturbo

01-17-2003, 09:46 PM

1971 STAGE 1

gotbuick

01-17-2003, 10:00 PM

John,

Nice 71!!!:eek2:

I remember seeing your opel take King of the Hill in 2000. That little car cooks!:TU:

Jerry

Marco

01-17-2003, 10:12 PM

How about you two guys registering your '71 convertibles :Brow:

68lesabre

01-18-2003, 01:24 PM

I got a '68 lesabre convertible. Bought it last year in Canada and then took it home to the Netherlands. Now it sharing my garage with my '68 lesabre coupe.

Maybe the only one this side of the "pond".:confused:

Smartin

01-18-2003, 02:29 PM

I was surprised to see as many European locations with Buicks! I think you'll find quite a few people here with Electras, LeSabres, etc. over on your side of the Pond...

Nice car, by the way...do you have any pics?

68lesabre

01-19-2003, 01:33 AM

I bought the convertible last July in Canada and before I were able to take it to the road summer was almost gone. We had a bad summer last year anyway, not a "convertible summer":(
So I didn't get a chance to take a lot of pictures. Just a couple to e-mail back to the people I bought it from.
For some strange reason I don't seem to get a picture posted in a reply. Why??

68lesabre

01-19-2003, 01:38 AM

Now I know how.
This is me in Canada with the previous owner. (I'm the one on the left :grin: )

Chris Lott

01-20-2003, 11:14 PM

Here is Scott White's (Driver2) 70 Skylark convert. Although his boy (the wheelman) might try to have you believe it is his car :Brow:

Driver2

01-21-2003, 12:25 AM

THANKS, Chris!:TU:
This is a pic of my '70 Skylark Custom Convertible, that I got for free in '98. I drove it home that day, and restoration began, 2 years later when I added the "extra" parts that I'd collected over the years: GS Hood, GSX Rear Spoiler, 15" Buick Mags, fresh 350-4 (455 soon), Street/Strip TH350. It came with the 12 bolt rear end!:Brow:
The paint is Dodge Viper GTS Blue, custom mixed with Metalflake, for a "One of a kind" color. It now has a Black interior, and a new White top. Future addition may include White GSX stripes, to accent the Blue body. Total invested: $3500. Don't give up! Even a "basket case" can be brought back to life, if you have the "vision", and the patience.:Smarty: :TU: :bglasses:

buick66special

01-28-2003, 04:17 AM

hello all, noticed this post and thought i'd ad to it.

I have a 'few conv cars. to start off with, the '66 special w/300 c.i. and st300, and the onlt power option is the power steering.

then there is the project car, a '66 skylark conv. with a 425, s/p th400, power everything, and needing almost everything replaced on it. like i said its a project car. We bought it as a parts car but couldn't resist temptation to revive it. it thas a story! This car was actually used in a bootlegging operation, and has a holding tank where the backseat is supposed to be. and the original owners swapped in the 425 nailhead :Brow:

these cars are in central North Carolina, the special is driven daily in and around Raleigh, winston-salem, and charlotte, but mostly raleigh.

my uncle is also working on a '66 skylark, that runs and drives, but the interior was firebombed, and needs a good cosmetic restoration of the vehicle.

other rag tops in the works are a '66 GTO clone, and a #'s matching '66 GTO

the only non-drop-top muscle car would be the other buick project, a '66 GS, but we don't have the original block, or a few other "original" items, so it will become a "resto-rod" with a 455 and trans to be determined later.

it seems we have a "thing" for 1966 gm a body ragtops:Do No:

hpbadger

02-08-2003, 12:31 AM

I am new to the board and new to convertibles. Just got a 72 Centurion today!! Would greatly appreciate any and all help, guidence, suggestions etc as I embark on this restoration project. 455 runs smooth. Body is straight but need paint. I spent the day fiddling with the rear quarter window which came off the track and ended up breaking the plastic roller that attaches to the gear arm. Off the the junkyard.

Chris

quickstage1

02-08-2003, 11:46 AM

Here is a picture of my '70 GS 455 conv. patiently waiting to be restored. Man, I need more garage space. It was originally a 3 speed manual, now it is a 4 speed. Original colors were Diplomat Blue with Pearl White bench seat interior. It has no A/C, no power steering and no power brakes, it does have the indash tach. About 15 years ago someone painted it black and dyed the interior black:Do No: .
Ken

Smartin

02-08-2003, 11:48 AM

Hey, triple black:TU:

Nice white top! Does the snow top come in black too?

TimR

02-08-2003, 05:58 PM

quickstage1 said:Here is a picture of my '70 GS 455 conv. patiently waiting to be restored.

LOL!! Most guys would consider that restored already.....another sicko!!YEAH!!

later
Tim

70voom

02-08-2003, 06:36 PM

Ken,

You gotta think car cover..:grin: :laugh:

nick rabi

02-17-2003, 07:15 PM

My 72 Centurion Convertible.

Nickl Rabi
72 Centurion Convertible 455
96 Chevy Caprice 9C1

VKohanski

02-21-2003, 10:34 AM

I haven't posted in the resto shop forum, yet, but I'll add a pic of my ragtop to the bunch. There's quite a collection of awesome Buick ragtops in this post...

VKohanski

02-21-2003, 10:35 AM

OK, so now for the pic...

hpbadger

02-21-2003, 11:58 AM

here it is. been working on this thing non-stop for 2 weeks. put the top boot on last night. Appeared to have shrunk so we will see what happens. ....finally got all the windows to work but they are not alligned right due to broken plastic pieces and missing stoppers. Drivers side trunk well and rear quarter well are plugged ....hope it doesn't rain!

Starc Traxler

02-22-2003, 10:09 AM

I am the second owner of a 65 GS Conv. 4-Speed. I bought this car in 1979. My GS is Flame Red with Black top and interior.My GS has taken 2 Best GS Conv. classes (65-72) at the 85 and 87 GS Nat's.My personal best E.T. is 13.77@99mph through cast iron manifolds and exhaust,street tires.

Starc Traxler

TimR

02-22-2003, 10:51 AM

Sounds nice....pictures???

later
Tim

wildcatsrule

02-22-2003, 12:20 PM

Here is my latest buy- a '70 225 conv. in my favorite color combo for a convertible. Red with a white top and white seats. White was not originally offered as an interior color on a '70 225 convertible, but this interior was redone to the factory pattern and looks great! David

gotbuick

02-23-2003, 11:54 PM

I hope this picture works!!

70voom

02-24-2003, 07:31 AM

Jerry,

That is one sweet ride.

Big E

02-24-2003, 12:37 PM

I see this list has been getting longer and longer, but I think I'll add to it.
My wife and I have a 70 GS 445 Auto drop top, Silver Mist w/black top and Black bench interior and we are in the Chicagoland area.
My father-in-law ordered the car new in 70 and it's been in the family ever since. He passed away about 12 years ago, well before I met my wife, but she insisted on hanging on to it to one day restore it.
It was their daily driver until the early eighties. In fact my wife learned to drive in this car, drove it to High School and took it to college. I always tell her how I would have hated to see a girl with such a hot car back in those days.
We're doing a body-off resto on it right now, and were both anxious to get it finished.
I am new to the Buick GS scene and was wondering if there were many Silver cars made? I haven't seen any on any of the website galleries.,
Big E:TU:

70voom

02-24-2003, 01:25 PM

Big E,
I found this one on the internet..hope this helps.

David V

02-24-2003, 01:26 PM

Big E,

Who is doing your resto? Where in Chicago are you? Your car sounds great!!

David

Marco

02-24-2003, 01:31 PM

Big E said:...I haven't seen any on any of the website galleries.,
Big E:TU:

Hi Big E -

Welcome to the wonderful world of buicks, and to the V8Buick board!

BTW - Do you have the window sticker from your GS? We're collecting dealership information.

Here's Dave Hemker's '70 GS455 convertible (Silver mist/Black top)from the Pure Stock races. Enjoy -

http://home.tir.com/~rvasilow/MVC-828X.JPG

Big E

02-24-2003, 06:23 PM

Hey guys thanks for the pictures you forwarded to me. I'm looking forward to seeing my car in that condition. I don't have the window sticker, I think my mother in law tossed it when she was going through some paper work. I just sent in to get a copy of the build sheet and I will get a new sticker after that. The original build sheet was in pretty bad shape when the car was disassembled. We lost about half of it to rust.
The car is being done by a shop in Wisconsin. The guy doing the work is someone that I have used on my other car and I have known him for almost twenty years. Sorry to dissappoint, but I also own a 70 Mustang Mach 1. He specializes in Mustangs, but has done a few Chevelles and older Firebirds.
The car is well underway and hope to have it complete by July/August.
Right now I'm trying to make a final decision on who to use to build my engine.
I always appreciate any recommendations.
Thanks
Big E

70 Skylark Conv

03-03-2003, 07:24 PM

I've had one since '88!!! :TU:
Dee

ricknmel67

03-03-2003, 11:00 PM

I guess I'll throw a picture of mine up here. Maybe I'll win <b>"The Ugliest Buick"</b> award or something.
:laugh:

I'm just getting started on it. It's a 1967 Skylark Conv.
I also have a 67 Skylark 2 door that I've tubbed and caged that I am still working on. I've had it since 1989. And I have my daily driver which is a 67 Skylark 2 door coupe. 300 2bbl.

<img src="http://home.woh.rr.com/rnmssite/67convengine2.jpg">

KEVIN

03-04-2003, 08:34 PM

So far I've got the "old one" A 64 Wildcat convertible that does not have the power of the GS but it does move. I bought the car junkyard ready 2 years ago and got it on the road last May. It is # matching with a freshly rebuilt 401. Plenty on new metal where the holes use to be, although it wasn't too bad after sitting in a garage since '86. I put 2.5" dual exhaust on it, Silver metallic paint and will be adding 5 spoke rims to it this summer to give it a mild rodding look.

KEVIN

03-04-2003, 08:41 PM

Here's a try at a photo attachment for my Wildcat.

Smartin

03-04-2003, 09:12 PM

Nice car, Kevin:TU: How's the top look?

KEVIN

03-04-2003, 09:28 PM

The photo I attached was prior to the top being put on. In October I had a black one put on with a glass window. The glass is not an origianl item but, I had glass in a 72 LTD vert and I feel that it is the way to go with a convertible. Top is so nice, I am afraid to drop it as it had been in my garage for the winter since I had it put on. Spring is almost here and I don't believe in driving a convertible with the top up, so I better get use to creasing the new canvas.

Smartin

03-04-2003, 10:09 PM

I just had a new top installed on mine this week...and spent my life savings on it.

See story:
http://www.v8buick.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=14465

Here is a pic of it in the garage I snapped tonight for someone else to see....but here goes........................

KEVIN

03-04-2003, 10:41 PM

Yeah, I know the feeling, my top was expensive too. You'r car looks great with it though. Here's a qustion for you. Do Buicks leak? I had a Ford vert before my Buick and the car was tight as a drum. My son had a 67 Impala vert and that baby leaked on sunny days, even after putting new rubber on it. I have yet to test the Buick design, I'm hoping it is as water tight as my Ford was.

Smartin

03-04-2003, 10:47 PM

I just bought ALL new weatherstripping for it so I'll see how weather tight it is. I think most of it has to do with how you adjust everything. If the windows aren't adjusted properly, you'll always have leaks.

KEVIN

03-04-2003, 10:52 PM

Well, I'm still working on final adjustments. Guess I'll find out soon enough. Nice talking with you, I gotta hit the rack for an early day. Happy motoring.

tlivingd

03-05-2003, 03:08 PM

my 70 leaks a lil bit. it is a small drip thru if it sits (very minor) if im cruzin i get some coming in from above the windshield (i've tried tightening it down and it still leaks a lil) I think someone sat on it while it was down.

I also have a problem in freezing weather. ice gets up under the lip on mine and lifts the top up. then i get more ice/show coming and landing on my face.

KEVIN

03-05-2003, 05:28 PM

Hi Nate,
I am sure you get alot of ice and rain in you'r area during these months. I was fooling around with my top today and once I get my windows adjusted properly I won't be afraid of driving the car during poor weather. I pretty much left it in the garage over the winter because I've only had the new paint and top for about 6 months so I haven't hit the road in full out bad weather. Except of course the time in September when I swore it wouldn't rain while I was driving without at top at all. I ended up driving in a torrant of rain for about 10 miles until I made it home. Funny thing about that, if you drive fast and duck low, you hardly get wet if the rain is flowing the right way!

Smartin

03-05-2003, 05:56 PM

hahah:laugh: Good point Kevin!

Here is a pic of my new top...

Smartin

03-05-2003, 05:57 PM

another...This is the first time I've seen the car with a top on it.

KEVIN

03-05-2003, 06:08 PM

That car is definately a cross country comfort cruiser! Very nice.

karlde

03-06-2003, 11:10 PM

Mine is a 64 Skylark, 4spd, 300 4v. Made in Fremont and spent its life in California. I moved it to Texas and am restoring it.

Karl Eltzroth

richopp

03-07-2003, 02:11 PM

Big E--I had a beautiful Platinum Mist (it was silver, but not sure if this is the same color as yours with a different name) '71 convertible with a black top and interior. I have a picture, but have not had time to hook up the scanner to get it into the computer yet. I will send it along when I do.

This is a GREAT color, and I wish you the best on your restoration. Hope to see a pic of it on the website when you get it done!

Regards,

Richard

ArcDevilz

03-09-2003, 08:45 PM

http://pub6.picturehost.co.uk/1971LeSabre.jpg

http://pub6.picturehost.co.uk/1971Rear.jpg
If you notice I failed to put the stainless trim on the decklid and the rear quarter extension. Im sending this out for chrome and the stainless has just been polished. All that is left is the top and a radio.
Ivan Gomez

462CID

03-10-2003, 05:31 PM

Those LeSabres are handsome cars. Not too often I see one, Ivan, very nice.

This is my '70 Skylark Custom convertible, in disguise as a GS455. I've had it since '89, when I bought it from the 3rd (I think) owner, who lived about four blocks from me, and I'd never noticed the car. I was 17. It was Fire red at the time, with a black top. Since then, it's been wrecked three time. Once, my fault and I wiped out the front end. Once I hit some black ice at about 20 mph and hit a tree, and once a van blew a stop sign at 40 mph and hit me right behind the driver's door, hard enough to buckle both rear quarters. I was knocked out, but I did drive the car home. As long as I hit my head I'm ok:laugh: But I found out it was a good solid car, in spite of the rust!

Since then I've put in that 455 and taken it out about a dozen times. Finally I got serious and did it right, detailed it, had it balanced and blueprinted as near as possible to factory spec, but with a 0.030" overbore, since two pistons were cracked and scratched the cylinder walls. I spent many, many hours attempting to build the engine right, and was rewarded with a sweet idle the first time I turned the key. **WHEW**. It's got ~ 9.8:1 compression, HEI, Edelbrock intake, TA headers, Edelbrock Performer 800 carb, GS ram air, TA RV12 cam, double roller chain, and some other standard upgrade stuff in the engine. I've replaced the top twice (once in the rain, lol), done almost all the body work, replaced the front end, wired rewired, or pulled out every wiring harness to check for breaks with the exception of the rear harness, put in a 12 bolt Chevy posi with 3.31:1 gears, had a built TH350 put in it, put in bucket seats, and used it to haul X-mas presents home from the mall with the top down:TU:

tlivingd

03-10-2003, 06:16 PM

I forgot you replaced your top.. its not to hard is it? something that can be done on a weekend? that would save me TONS of cash.

Nate

KEVIN

03-10-2003, 06:33 PM

Did the 455 drop right into the Skylark? And if so, did you have sufficient room to work with headers etc.........

462CID

03-11-2003, 12:00 PM

Nate- last time I did it, it was about 8 hours, I was the only one working on it. You can do it yourself, but you'll want someone who knows what to do with you. The bar that holds the back of the roof and rear window in place can be hard to work with, or even get in and out. Unbolting it is easy- but it fits so tightly under there, it's a real pain in the:moonu: . You can damage the paint easily. The roof is held in place with staples, by the way- Weird but true. Maybe I should put this pic in a new thread, but here's a very small example of what to look out for/what not to do:

The wrinkle on top of the passenger side, on the back window- I thnk this is due to the way the hydraulic ram on that side lowers the roof. Not sure, but that's my best guess- it's either quicker or slower than the other side, so that kinda lines up the roof and window a bit wrong, and you get the wrinkle. The window curtain wrinkles- I just didn't think things through well enough, the top's tight and flush, but the window curtain isn't as good. Next time, I'll get that right. The rear window is heavy, and is seperate from the roof. First time I did it, there was a big sag in the part I circled. This time, I stapled the window in place with the roof on it's way down slightly. I think I put a coffee can on top of the windsheild, and rested the header bow (the front of the roof) on the can for support. this made the rear bow- where the welting is (the part at the back that goes from one side to the other, with the chrome caps) lower than it should be. I stapled in the window, and when I took out the coffee can and l raised the roof all the way and locked it, the window was taut. Crude, but it worked. The wrinkles on the passenger side, by the rear 1/4 glass, can be fixed without removing the roof, I think. I'm almost postive if I was to pull it tighter by hand, put some 3M adhesive in there, and put back on the weatherstripping on the roof, the wrinkles would go away. They weren't there when I first put on the roof.

462CID

03-11-2003, 12:14 PM

Kevin- yes the 455 goes right in. Don't forget, the GS455 is a model built on the Skylark body. The headers were a tad tight, but aren't they always?:laugh: A hammer took care of that, one dent and I was done. Making sure the starter and tranny coolant lines were sheilded from the heat was another thing, though. I feel like I'm taking over the thread, so any pic after this one, I'll put in a new topic, I promise.
This was just before I did a lot of work last spring, the glass filter was so I could see if there was a lot of crap in the fuel lines- I don't use it to drive the car with- they fail.
If you look really closely, you can see the dent in the header, where I've circled. The 455 fits like a glove, but with the HEI unit, I'm told, the clearance to the aircleaner bucket is too close, unless you use an aftermarket manifold. I can say that with my Edelbeock, it fits great, as shown. I have to cut down my foam seals, though. This is getting close to off topic, so maybe we should talk about all this in another thread.

jim buick

03-19-2003, 10:03 PM

I have a '68 gs 400 all #'s matching conv. with bucket seats, power windows, power brakes, and a/c. 90,000 thousand on the odometer, still looks good and drives great. GOTTA LOVE IT!

stg1gs455

03-20-2003, 11:50 AM

Here is my drop top. 71 GS 455 STG1 clone. She has gone through a frame up, nut and bolt restification. Looks very stock, but thats deceiving. The 455 is heavily modified with all the goodies, including intake, modified Q-Jet, KB headers w/full 3" exhaust, TA cam, and head work. She also has a complete polygraphite suspension and sway bars to make her handle. Nothing beats a 455 for torque.

462CID

03-20-2003, 12:06 PM

Is that Platinum Mist, Dave? Very nice. I nearly had mine painted that color. In my home town, there was an honest-to-God little old lady driving around in her '70 Stage 1 that was really nice, about 10 years ago, and it was Platinum Mist. Sharp color:TU:

stg1gs455

03-20-2003, 04:59 PM

Actually the color is silver mist metalic. It's a 2000 GM color. I couldn't get myself to paint it the original color, it was cortez gold with a sadle interior.:gt:

tlivingd

03-20-2003, 05:07 PM

my buddies GS is that color looks awesome. his has a black vinyl top hard top. it is a very good color combo. i'm suprised I haven't seen more of those.

nice ride you have there.

462CID

03-20-2003, 05:33 PM

stg1gs455 said:Actually the color is silver mist metalic. It's a 2000 GM color. I couldn't get myself to paint it the original color, it was cortez gold with a sadle interior.:gt:

I bet the two colors are so close nobody could tell. Anyway, it looks great! My car was originally Bamboo Cream- I understand about not liking the original color combo.

jannelu

03-22-2003, 02:33 PM

Hi everyone!!!
I own a 1965 Electra 225 custom convertible...
I bought in California in the middle of December and it arrived to me here in Sweden in the middle of February...
Its a 2 owner car with 80k on the odometer and its in very nice condition...
Has all options like a/c, cruise, powereverything, also has the original tissueholder as well as a litterbasket...
Engine is a 425 with single carburator...
Passed inspection here in Sweden without problem, clean paper...
Have put a new top on it, maroon fabric with glasswindow, looks great...
I tried to insert a picture but no success...
Anyone know how to do it???
Brgds
Jannelu

stg1gs455

03-22-2003, 10:25 PM

To attach photo, go to the bootom of the page when you are posting. You will see attach file, hit the browse button, go to the file you want to open, hit the open button and the file is attached. Good luck.

Dan K

03-25-2003, 06:54 PM

Here's my 66 4speed convertible...shadow turquoise. Original paint, top and interior. Let's see if this works....Dan

Dan K

03-25-2003, 06:55 PM

Side shot...

raresun

04-02-2003, 10:03 PM

71 Skylark Custom convertible. Stratomist blue with white top and black interior. 350/automatic

jannelu

04-11-2003, 03:46 PM

Lets see if this work...:Brow:

Smartin

04-11-2003, 10:38 PM

Great picture! Got anymore???:Brow:

jannelu

04-12-2003, 01:49 AM

Here is another one...

Chris Lott

04-12-2003, 09:05 AM

Nice car! And very cool picture by the way.:TU:

pwm72

04-14-2003, 08:12 PM

Here is my 72 Lark...455, 288-94H cam...Qjet, 12 bolt posi w/3.73's, 15" forged Cragars, th350, front discs. Come on Summer!

Smartin

04-14-2003, 08:19 PM

Paul...

NICE color.:Brow: I like the wheels, also. Care to have your car put in the Buick Parts Driectory's "Rides" section? Shoot me an email at adamm@buickpartsdirectory.com and include a short (or long) description of the car, how you got it, what future plans are, etc...if you like. My motherboard just puked, so I'll be a couple days before I can get the page updated.

Chris Cornett

04-15-2003, 11:22 PM

My 71 GS350 4 speed.

raresun

04-16-2003, 07:36 AM

71 Skylark convertible currently Stratomist blue with white top and black bench seat interior. 350/2 and auto. I am working on getting a 455 and turbo 400. Also have a complete power window setup i'll be installing soon. This car was originally Cortez Gold with black top and since the current paint job is not very good i'm considering going back to Gold. I'll try to post photos in the near future.

KRAZYT

04-16-2003, 01:16 PM

i have a 70 skylark rag top getting cloned to gsx
black on black
BUT it has a chevy 350 fuely in it [ sorry]

MRSHLEEPY76

04-19-2003, 08:20 PM

70 buick lesabre conv. w/ a fresh 455/400 now i'm looking for a rear clip seems previous owner liked a drive it i the michigan snow and now i got rust in the trunk

Floydsbuick

04-19-2003, 09:02 PM

Need a rear clip? I'm still parting this 69 4 door. The bumper is different than your 70, but the structure is the same. There is a small hole in the center of the trunk floor cause of the rear window leaking. The areas that are usually bad in the rear are excellent here. I'll saw the whole back end off right behind the rear doors. $100, come and get it! This is South Carolina sheetmetal. I'm only 20 miles east of the Ohio border.

12 Volt Man

04-28-2003, 11:09 PM

I just got this 70 a couple of months ago. It's got a tired 350 that'll need to be replaced soon - but the top and interior are perfect. I've put some Flows on her to give it some throat, but other than that - it's stock.

BTW - I've been looking for a Board like this. Glad I found it. Seems like a good place with cool people.

12 Volt Man

04-28-2003, 11:15 PM

Here's a closer look. Man, there are some fine cars here...

Buickone

05-03-2003, 07:10 AM

Here's our 'vert....a clone, but she'll go as good as my original 70GS 455 did.....:TU:

tlivingd

05-03-2003, 08:19 AM

Hey Jerry what color is that? there are some of us on another thread wondering what color the blues are and yours looks like another fine example of a 70's blue.

http://www.v8buick.com/showthread.php?s=&postid=123978#post123978

awesome ride btw.

Nate

rmellum

05-11-2003, 04:52 PM

Sorry I'm a little late on chiming in. Mine's a '72 GS 455 Sandlewood paint with black top and black interior (hot seat). I had Jim W rebuild the engine and transmission last year. Body is in okay shape (usual areas have issues) for a car that has 135,000 miles on it. The nice thing about having all the miles on it is that adding a few more can't hurt, so I drive it a lot.

Ron

tlivingd

05-13-2003, 05:29 PM

got some new pics of my 70' thought i'd post them...

gotta love those skylark/GS lines

tlivingd

05-13-2003, 05:30 PM

another...

I gotta get rid of the old man hubcaps..

nate

rmellum

05-13-2003, 08:30 PM

Speaking of hub caps, I'll see if I can get a good scan of it, but I've got a Polaroid from the original owner of mine. It shows the car with the dog dish hub caps. Sometimes I kind of wish I had those. Talk abot your sleeper look.:Brow:

tlivingd

05-13-2003, 08:39 PM

I do have the hubcaps for mine still too. the weird stainless steel ones where the middle comes out. looks like a UFO if i were hang it from a wire.

Nate

Smartin

05-13-2003, 09:32 PM

Nate,

Your car looks really solid body-wise. It's weird to see your new avatar, since all I've been seeing for months is the rear shot of it.

Cool!:TU:

tlivingd

05-14-2003, 02:07 AM

yea... the body is in pretty good shape. the underside of the trunk lid is going. and i have a few bubbles and thru holes in the front fenders. I also have a small gash looking rust spot above the drivers rear tire.

it's a shame. there is a lil body work done to the front fenders. (stupid lil fender bender) but it was pulled out (evidence of small holes on inside of fender) but seems to be quality though i'd like to see more of it pulled out. and the opposite side has about 1/8" dent running from top middle of front wheel about 2 ft back toward drivers door.

the known rust spot though is completly solid around it and orginal except that the rust spot is the size of a dime and a thru hole once cleaned will be about 1/4" and its all factory steel when it comes time to put in a filler plate or something else. it still has the under fender frame 100% intact with little to no rust.

I did screw some of the paint up when i pulled the fender to change the heater core. the paint at the upper curve between the door and fender. the 3 inch long curve.

there is body glaze along the doors though... but i dont think it is too bad. when i had the inner panels off it was pretty streight.

it is also a maaco type paint job. the hood has pooling of the metallic on either side of the center ridge. and there is some weird cracking going on in a few places.

It will get me by for a few years till i can get the parts for the interior (pearl white again), new wheels, new top (white) and maybe rebuild the engine. (most likely 455)

Nate

its almost how i want my 67 grand prix. good body but inners gutted....
gotta keep telling myself one project at a time. meaning the bravada from hell needs to wait too.

BJR

05-19-2003, 07:30 AM

I have a 54 Special convert in west central Wisconsin. Brian

cjp69

05-20-2003, 09:55 AM

First time post for me, just joined the board, so hopefully my picture will work.

Here is my 69 GS 400 Conv.

Thanks for looking!

cjp69

05-20-2003, 10:23 AM

Here's a side view, as requested (picture taken on a different day):

Smartin

05-20-2003, 05:59 PM

SA-WEET car Chris!:TU:

How about a page in my Rides section of the Buick Paets Directory??:Brow: :Brow:

cjp69

05-20-2003, 06:12 PM

Sure,

What do you need?

Smartin

05-20-2003, 06:29 PM

Send me an email with a story or specs on the car. Also would like more pics of you have them!

email me here:

adamm@buickpartsdirectory.com

Thanks,

Graham

06-01-2003, 10:21 AM

This is my (dusty) 1969 GS 400 Ragtop. #'s match. Signal Red, Pearl White Interior & Top, ps, tilt, pw, pdl, pt, pdb, 8.25" 3:42 posi, cruise master, buckets, console etc. Engine 0.030" over, 11:1, balanced, blueprinted, heads ported and matched, GS 107/118 cam, T/A Jethot headers, 3000 stall, turbo 400 with shiftkit, smallcap HEI. 12.24@113mph Best ran on 2 passes last year. (Don't want to break it running that hard!):Brow:

73rx3

06-01-2003, 04:33 PM

here's my 68, finally got it out of the garage.
455,4 speed.

73rx3

06-01-2003, 04:35 PM

another picture

cjp69

06-02-2003, 08:54 AM

Graham said:This is my (dusty) 1969 GS 400 Ragtop. #'s match. Signal Red, Pearl White Interior & Top, ps, tilt, pw, pdl, pt, pdb, 8.25" 3:42 posi, cruise master, buckets, console etc. Engine 0.030" over, 11:1, balanced, blueprinted, heads ported and matched, GS 107/118 cam, T/A Jethot headers, 3000 stall, turbo 400 with shiftkit, smallcap HEI. 12.24@113mph Best ran on 2 passes last year. (Don't want to break it running that hard!):Brow:

Graham, really nice car and impressive times!

Chris

ERICSBUICKS

06-21-2003, 06:25 PM

71 GS 350 CONV HERE, CURRENTLY WHITE WITH GREEN INT(GOING BACK TO GREEN SOON), ALL POWER, TILT, GUAGES, DISC BRAKES. LOCATED IN CINTI., OH. THANKS, ERIC

Chris Lott

06-22-2003, 09:17 PM

Eric, post some pictures when you get a chance!:TU:

Captain Mark

07-02-2003, 03:05 PM

Man, there are some beautiful cars on this thread. Too bad mine isn't one of them! here is my turd at the track, about to whip another Mustang.

BF2KNIGHT

07-11-2003, 02:42 PM

Just came back to this board after a long absence....I noticed that no one here has 75 Lesabre....mine's Glacier Blue and white and being cosmetically restored but it's drivable now.

mmbs72

07-27-2003, 08:25 PM

72 Skylark 350-4 GS Clone. Live in Central Connecticut. Need to move somewhere where I can drive this year round now :laugh:
Previous owner painted it 99 corvette red, swapped a black bucket interior, added rear spoiler and some fat tires. Drives like a 72 stock custom - little more work to get her to respond like she looks. But a blast to drive! Glad I have a skylark ragtop. This board has loads of information.

Hate to have arrest me red and not be able to back it up a little bit :)

Great Question

topdeadcenter

08-10-2003, 08:10 PM

Just got my 69 Buick Wildcat Convert for FREE!!!!!:grin:

Everything works, runs great, but the quarters and floor are gone! If only the body was cleaner.:(

I am going to do a band-aid resto/fix-up and see if I still want it.

later,
TDC

1OF431

08-24-2003, 05:47 AM

:jd: WOW! LOOKS LIKE YOU FOLKS HAVE MOST OF THE REALLY NICE BUICKS GATHERED UP, BUT I'LL TOSS MINE IN ON THE FIRE.
1966 GS 4SPEED 401 'VERT. #'S MATCH, HENCE THE TAG,1OF431.
BLUE ON BLUE, BLUE MIST POLY. PS,PW,PB,PT,DUAL4BBL,TILT WHEEEL. GREAT FUN!! EVERY ONE NEEDS TO OWN A BUICK.
NO PICS. TO OFFER BUT COULD IN THE FUTURE. THIS CAR NEEDS A COMPLETE RESTO., BUT IT STILL TURNS THE HEADS. I'VE OWNED THE CAR FOR 20 YEARS. IT WAS BUILT IN FREMONT CA.
AT THE MOMENT IT'S PAINTED A MUNG BROWN/BLACK. YOU FOLKS DON'T NEED TO SEE THAT, TRUST ME. WHEN I GET IT BACK TO BLUE
I'LL SEND PICS.:cool:

OTHERS IN THE STABLE ARE; 65WILDCAT 2DRHT 425 2X4,66 GS SKYLARK COUPE 401 AT. POWER EVERYTHING, AND OH YES, 51 CHEV SEDAN DELIVERY, ALSO 401 POWERED:pp I'M A HAPPY GUY!

ALL THE BEST TO ALL OF YOU:TU:

Captain Mark

08-25-2003, 08:22 AM

1OF431 said::jd: WOW! LOOKS LIKE YOU FOLKS HAVE MOST OF THE REALLY NICE BUICKS GATHERED UP, BUT I'LL TOSS MINE IN ON THE FIRE.
1966 GS 4SPEED 401 'VERT. #'S MATCH, HENCE THE TAG,1OF431.
BLUE ON BLUE, BLUE MIST POLY. PS,PW,PB,PT,DUAL4BBL,TILT WHEEEL. GREAT FUN!! EVERY ONE NEEDS TO OWN A BUICK.
NO PICS. TO OFFER BUT COULD IN THE FUTURE. THIS CAR NEEDS A COMPLETE RESTO., BUT IT STILL TURNS THE HEADS. I'VE OWNED THE CAR FOR 20 YEARS. IT WAS BUILT IN FREMONT CA.
AT THE MOMENT IT'S PAINTED A MUNG BROWN/BLACK. YOU FOLKS DON'T NEED TO SEE THAT, TRUST ME. WHEN I GET IT BACK TO BLUE
I'LL SEND PICS.:cool:

OTHERS IN THE STABLE ARE; 65WILDCAT 2DRHT 425 2X4,66 GS SKYLARK COUPE 401 AT. POWER EVERYTHING, AND OH YES, 51 CHEV SEDAN DELIVERY, ALSO 401 POWERED:pp I'M A HAPPY GUY!

ALL THE BEST TO ALL OF YOU:TU:

John, do you have any pics of those fine Buicks?

BlueSky

09-02-2003, 05:29 AM

Just joined the fray.........

I've got a '70 Skylark Custom Convert---- owned it about a year (my dream come true)---- It's a Flint built car, was originally Diplomat Blue w/ pearl interior, still has a white top. It's got the fold-down armrest bench, PDB, PS, power top (it was standard, was it not?) clock (works--er--moves, I should say) maplite, trunklite and a strong, healthy 350-4 w/ dual exhaust.
Somewhere along the line the car aquired a '71 GS hood, air cleaner and white interior. I added an AM/FM I had on hand, a ralley steering wheel, 1 1/4 front swaybar liberated from an '80 Tubbo Trans Am, factory rear bar and 15x7 Ralleys & 60 series rubber. The front end was rebuilt and new springs/shocks all around shortly before my purchase so now the car handles great.... Much better than my 455 car..... With tall gears in back and a 350 she's my top- down highway cruiser:bglasses:
I'll restore her someday (Gotta like Diplomat Blue) but for now we're having too much fun in the sun---- LIFE IS GOOD!!!!!!!

Chris Lott

09-02-2003, 08:49 AM

Very nice Dan, welcome to the board. You can resize a picture like that to 150x150 and use it as your avatar, the picture under your name. If you need help doing so just speak up as there are many of us on the board (including myself) that can help you. :TU:

tlivingd

09-03-2003, 03:56 PM

hey dan...

I thought for a sec. that I was looking at my car. (I now have 15" rallies on whats in my avatar....)

awesome ride... makes me wish mine was almost done...(I haven't even started.)

Nate

BlueSky

09-07-2003, 07:39 AM

Chris Lott said:Very nice Dan, welcome to the board. You can resize a picture like that to 150x150 and use it as your avatar, the picture under your name. If you need help doing so just speak up as there are many of us on the board (including myself) that can help you. :TU: Thanks, Chris-- it's good to be here-- hard to find other Skylark/GS people locally.... I'm working on an avatar, just need to take some more pictures.....(in all my spare time.....:puzzled: ) Say, I haven't searched yet, but I'm dying to see some more pics of your cars.... only my favorite two '70 colors............:grin:

BlueSky

09-07-2003, 08:02 AM

tlivingd said:hey dan...

I thought for a sec. that I was looking at my car. (I now have 15" rallies on whats in my avatar....)

awesome ride... makes me wish mine was almost done...(I haven't even started.)

Nate Thanks a lot, Nate-- the color really does look similar to yours, I read your posts about that elsewhere.... Your car looks like a good clean one to begin with.

alas, the pictures don't show the flaws :Do No: Maaco (uh oh) type work, touch ups, filler, some rust issues, overall a half-:moonu: restoration by someone.... mechanically its too good not to use for a sunday driver for the forseeable future.... (I'll tear into it when my daughter reaches driving age:pp )
Small, open shows are fun, too. These cars are curiousities to many people, aren't they?? (Is that a cutlass??) or (nice car, what is it?)

1971 Buick GS

09-30-2003, 04:07 AM

Good to see all these great Buick convertibles. I own a 1971 Buick GS convertible with the original 350-4 engine. I used to own a 1969 Buick GS convertible with a non-original 430-4 out of a 1968 Riviera. I definitely have a thing for GS convertibles!

Electra Dave

10-03-2003, 01:44 PM

Heres a couple of my deuce, she is finally road worthy with a fresh 430 under the hood(overbored .060), and a new Edlebrock 750 with electric choke.

http://images.cardomain.com/member_images/11/web/431000-431999/431015_1_full.jpg

http://images.cardomain.com/member_images/11/web/431000-431999/431015_7_full.jpg

http://images.cardomain.com/member_images/11/web/431000-431999/431015_6_full.jpg

There are a few more pictures on my cardomain site. Sorry for the fact that they wer in the gas station, I'll be taking some more in the coming weeks with a better background, maybe Angeles Forrest Hwy or something like that.

Anyone have any ideas why one of the previous owners put that metallized tape on the firewall? I'm a little afraid to pull it off.

Also, If anything is incorrect on my cardomain site, please let me know, I am still learning about the car.

http://www.cardomain.com/id/electra_dave