Its about time I spent some time restoring my '72 Skylark. I purchased this car in 1975 in Santa Monica, California. It was my daily driver for ten years as I moved to Santa Barbara. It followed me as my Sunday driver as I moved to Davis, California and then to the San Francisco Bay area. Ten to fifteen years ago the brakes got scary bad and other things started stacking up, so I parked the car (sadly under a tarp, not in a garage). I think it is time to turn my attention back to this Buick. The car needs new brakes all the way around and I'm inclined to go with four-wheel disc brakes. I've searched the forums extensively and haven't found any consensus. The original wheels are 14X6 and I'd rather not add the expense of new wheels on top of everything else. The convertible top is in surprisingly good shape, although the back window has separated. I suspect that the window and surrounding fabric can be reattached to the top. More research needed. The interior is badly worn, but functional. The dash and steering wheel are seriously cracked. I see that complete interiors are available for big bucks, but I'd first like to get the car back on the road. Engine and transmission are original apart from hardened valve seats done in the mid-1980's. Some rust on the body, likely from clogged drains, but its a California car so I doubt that the rust is a serious problem. I'll start posting in appropriate forums as I progress, but I wanted to introduce myself and my car. Marc
Welcome from southern California No need to look for any other forums This is the only one that you need when it comes down to skylarks post some pictures when you have time
Here are a few photos of the beast. The body is pretty straight. These's some rust behind the front passenger wheel well. I'm hoping to pull the plugs, lube the cylinders and turn the engine by this weekend, and then see if she starts. If the compression is good, then I'll change the fluids and likely the timing chain and water pump along with the belts and hoses. I'm considering going electronic ignition as part of the tune up. Thoughts?
Hei is always nice They also make a points electronic conversion kit . Sweet ride Thanks for the pictures
Got the plugs out and oiled the cylinders. I'll wait overnight before trying to turn the engine over. I replaced the battery, expecting to find some rust in the battery tray. What I found in addition was serious rot in the core support under the battery. I believe that replacement metal is available, but I was hoping to avoid the body shop until I got other work done.
After almost nine years, she kicked right over like a daily driver. Belts and perhaps the water pump are squealing and the old exhaust leak is still there, but I'm stoked that she hasn't had any surprises for me . . . so far. My plan is to get the old oil warmed up and then changed. The belts are toast, but the pulleys have some surface corrosion and I worry about putting fresh belts on rough pulleys. should I worry?
