The folks on the BCA forums have read all about it already, so I thought I would share with the v8 crowd. I'm insane for buying this car, but it was too good to pass up! ... 90% original paint (top of pass fender and bottom half or front pass door were painted at one point) 59xxx miles Nearly mint interior Mint trunk compartment Engine never been apart, but appears to have been sprayed at some point, same with some of the black in the engine compartment Rust free, except under headlights where it is perforating Chrome is in excellent condition Stainless is excellent, couple dents here and there Originally an Air Poise car, but was converted at some point. Few bits still remain, but I may pluck them off an sell to raise $$ for the Limited. It appears to have been a Kansas car its whole life. I have the original owner's title, that is dated 1976 because they had applied for a new title at that point. The mileage on the 1976 title is 54xxx! So in the last 34 years, it has been driven 5000 miles. It needs a few things... Front trans cooler lines are leaking pretty badly Paint needs buffed (I know a guy who can do this) Dash pad is sagging (surprise!) Interior chrome needs detailing Instrument cluster lights do not work Couple dents need repair in the stainless trim Engine runs a touch rough, might be a carb issue...appears to have most of its original ignition equipment too. FlightPitch transmission seems to stick in low gear until warm, then will finally unlock and run smoothly. I think it's a low fluid issue, judging by the pond of fluid on the floor. Minor coolant leak at thermostat housing I started polishing the chrome on the dashboard this evening, and it is coming out REALLY nice. I had to take some time to replace bulbs in the dash and roof courtesy lights so I could see when I was working, though. They really put out some good light when they're all working!
It is Buick's flop of an air ride suspension system that came out in 58 and lasted through 59. Most of them were converted to coil spring suspensions early in their lives due to the constant problems with the systems failing. They are extremely cost prohibitive to restore, and even worse to find parts for them.
Nice find Adam! :TU: Is that interior correct for the corresponding exterior color? Sounds like the engine bay could use a Smartin touch.
You have done it again! I don't care what most people say about the 58's, I love them. That one looks like a dandy, I see why you couldn't turn it down. CONGRATS!!!!!
Me too, Alan! I just finished scrubbing all the chrome in the interior...there must be a square mile of it in there. I have so many little things I want to get done on this car, but I don't know where to start! I REALLY want to just drive the damn thing, but it's getting to be that time of year when that's not a real viable option.
Duuude ... you scored BIGTIME on this one. Before you even think of selling it, keep it and bring it to a few shows ... mebbe even the BPG Nats and ENJOY having a running driving car this season. I have a feeling you may end up keeping it - its a GEM. ... and thats from a guy who's not particularly a 50's car guy ... or a purple (or pastel anything) guy BUT - that car in that color ROCKS MY SOCKS !! Just like my Sporty - you'd be hard pressed to ever find an original in such sweet shape again. I know Hobart has stolen your heart but Laurel would make a good mistress :Brow:
"So in the last 34 years, it has been driven 5000 miles." Looks like it never saw the light of day the rest of the time either!:TU: Even the door and trunk seals look great. You might want to see if you can get chrome polish in bulk. Don't forget to do the fender spears!:Brow:
Sweet score Adam:TU: I dig that dash a lot and all that chrome. A pain to clean and polish but when finished nothing can compete with it! Killer car. How did you find out about it?
That car is a work of art, Adam. And to be 99% original and in that shape- probably never come across that ever again. I agree with Alan, keep it and bring it to shows. When Hobart is done, then make a decision. (Bet you keep both)