I found out what happens when a car sits in original condition for decades, and it isn't great! I ordered my Belvedere II from the original owner's estate in AZ. Everything about the car was absolutely beautiful and original. I was ecstatic! My first vintage car for my vintage self.
Ah, but then a few quirks with carburation...had that repaired. Then the car began leaving its mark in the garage...in several areas. I brought her into a very reputable mechanic who I've used before and asked him to get under the hood and under the chassis and repair everything he could find that was or will go wrong.
The damage...Engine and tranny removed, all fluids and filters replaced throughout, along with new head gasket, valve cover gaskets, timing chain, plugs, cap, rotor, points, condenser, plug wires, old hoses, rear main seal, fuel pump, water pump, oil pan gasket, tranny filter and gasket...all replaced. All nuts and bolts under the car were checked and tightened if needed. New dual exhaust, Engine blasted and re-painted factory color. He had it for 4 weeks.
Anyway, after a total bill of $3,300. Thought that was very reasonable for all the work, actually. I picked up my car. Now she's running like new, looks like a jewel inside and out, and a dry garage floor! I'm a happy camper.
Amazing what time does to a car with 40K miles.
Yeah, and I've been practicing "social distancing" in her every day...with the wifey. :)
Cheers, and stay well!
Ah, but then a few quirks with carburation...had that repaired. Then the car began leaving its mark in the garage...in several areas. I brought her into a very reputable mechanic who I've used before and asked him to get under the hood and under the chassis and repair everything he could find that was or will go wrong.
The damage...Engine and tranny removed, all fluids and filters replaced throughout, along with new head gasket, valve cover gaskets, timing chain, plugs, cap, rotor, points, condenser, plug wires, old hoses, rear main seal, fuel pump, water pump, oil pan gasket, tranny filter and gasket...all replaced. All nuts and bolts under the car were checked and tightened if needed. New dual exhaust, Engine blasted and re-painted factory color. He had it for 4 weeks.
Anyway, after a total bill of $3,300. Thought that was very reasonable for all the work, actually. I picked up my car. Now she's running like new, looks like a jewel inside and out, and a dry garage floor! I'm a happy camper.
Amazing what time does to a car with 40K miles.
Yeah, and I've been practicing "social distancing" in her every day...with the wifey. :)
Cheers, and stay well!
