41Roadmaster Posted January 25, 2012 Share Posted January 25, 2012 Is this where the auto-holics meet? If so, "my name is Anderson and I'm obsessed with my car..." (everyone in unison, "Hello Anderson") I've enjoyed this forum for a year now, but have been only a wall flower, so I guess its finally time to step forward and say hello! I have a 1941-76C Buick Roadmaster coupe convertible, Royal Maroon body, red leather interior (well, vinyl) with a tan top. I've attempted to attach some photos...I hope they post OK. I've owned this car for 12 years and have enjoyed every minute of it (even when I was miserable.) I'm looking forward to getting to know the group better. I'm always looking to learn more about my car. Thanks for all the useful, and just plain entertaining posts!<!-- google_ad_section_end --> 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
michel88 Posted January 25, 2012 Share Posted January 25, 2012 Hi Anderson, welcome to the forum and glad you decided to post pictures of your beautiful Roadmaster. I have a 40 Roadmaster coupe and it is a great driving car, that I enjoy driving too! The Roadmasters 320 cu. in. engine lets it keep up with modern traffic and the 3.9 to 1.00 rear end gearing makes for easy cruising on interstates. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
41Roadmaster Posted January 25, 2012 Author Share Posted January 25, 2012 Thanks for the welcome Woody. I had a '40 Super convertible and LOVED that car. But you're right, the 320 is the way to go for highway cruising. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
JohnD1956 Posted January 25, 2012 Share Posted January 25, 2012 Helloooo Andersonnnnn ( echoing from the valleys of upper NYS) I see you have one of the Holy Grails of Buick there. Awesome car. Gotta agree w/ Woody, Thanks for posting. Hope to see this baby live at the BCA meet in your area this summer. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
41Roadmaster Posted January 25, 2012 Author Share Posted January 25, 2012 Thanks for the hearty welcome and compliments John! I'll definately be at the meet in June, and I'll keep an eye out for you among all those beautiful Buicks. I heard from our President, Brian DePouli (also from Charlotte) that the registration numbers are high ALREADY. BRRR, I felt a cold draft when I opened your email. Schenectady must be native for "turn on the heat!" Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
trimacar Posted January 25, 2012 Share Posted January 25, 2012 Nice car, welcome to the group! I'm the resident trimmer of the group (although I'm sure others have such skills on here), so love your car, wish they'd left the Nauga's alone and gone after some cows, though!That has to be a great driver, I used to own a '37 Buick and it was one of the nicest driving 30's cars I've ever been in....Welcome and post awaaaay..... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
41Roadmaster Posted January 25, 2012 Author Share Posted January 25, 2012 Thanks for the hello, David. Looks like you have ALOT of cars, my friend. I can hardly keep up with one! One of these days I'll get around to getting that leather back in. Its one of the items on my very l-o-n-g list! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jackofalltrades70 Posted January 26, 2012 Share Posted January 26, 2012 Anderson,I too would like to welcome you. I love seeing the convertibles......Working on mine at the moment. Looks like a very beautiful car and I hope you have a lot of driving time. Matt:) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
JohnD1956 Posted January 26, 2012 Share Posted January 26, 2012 BRRR, I felt a cold draft when I opened your email. Schenectady must be native for "turn on the heat!"You are probably right, although it's been unusually mild this winter. We can still see our dirt ( I would have said grass but weeds don't really qualify as grass to me) We noted that when ever that happens we seem to have a crappy summer thereafter, so I hope it starts snowing pretty soon and gets it over with. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
41Roadmaster Posted January 26, 2012 Author Share Posted January 26, 2012 Anderson,I too would like to welcome you. I love seeing the convertibles......Working on mine at the moment. Looks like a very beautiful car and I hope you have a lot of driving time. Matt:)Thanks Matt. I've got a thing for the convertibles too. I get mine out when I can, but it never feels like its enough. My wife calls me "the one car parade." 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
smithbrother Posted January 27, 2012 Share Posted January 27, 2012 Great body style, great colors too. The stance is perfect. I bet it gets tons of looks.Would be interested in just how original it is, and what have you done to it since you purchased it.Love to hear the history, and bits and pieces. Welcome,Dale in Indy Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
41Roadmaster Posted January 27, 2012 Author Share Posted January 27, 2012 Hi Dale, thanks for the welcome. She's an all-stock driver. I don't have historical documentation (but I'm working on that through a title search and the BCA) but it looks like she was restored in the late 1970's or so. Since then, I've just been driving it. Oh, I've done the usual oil changes, carb rebuilds, water pump replacement, etc. but nothing major. I'm not a mechanic, just an enthusist trying to keep a piece of history onthe road.But after 10 years of saving my pennies, I'm finally getting some much needed help to bring her back to former glory. It's been a long road, but I'm enjoying the walk. Looking forward to sharing the journey with all those interested! 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest RAFA Posted February 20, 2012 Share Posted February 20, 2012 GORGEOUS BUICK YOU HAVE MR PEARSON . Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
1957buickjim Posted February 20, 2012 Share Posted February 20, 2012 Woody, Welcome to the Forum! What a beatiful car you have. You found the right spot for getting in with the crowd on tips and techniques, that's for sure! Looking forward to hearing more from you and seeing you in Charlotte! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Hector Posted February 21, 2012 Share Posted February 21, 2012 Anderson,thanks for posting the pictures,what a good looking car.When I noticed that you are from Charlotte I went and look at my Autofair BCA shows pics back to '08,I knew that I've never seen your car but I wanted to make sure.I hope to see it at the National event or some other time.Welcome from Concord,NC. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
41Roadmaster Posted February 24, 2012 Author Share Posted February 24, 2012 Hi Hector- thanks for the message. I've never taken the car to any of the shows. However, I may have enough work completed by June to "respresent" in the meet (maybe...)Regardless, I'll be there and am looking forward to meeting you and the other club members. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
buick5563 Posted February 25, 2012 Share Posted February 25, 2012 Bring it no matter what. Sign up for Driven Class if you don't want to "show" it. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Buicknutty Posted March 30, 2012 Share Posted March 30, 2012 Anderson; Just found this thread, nice car you have you there! I am nearly finished restoring a Canadian built Roadmaster Coupe. I have done the paint in the same colour, as your car, Royal Maroon, and hope to have it on the road this Spring. Thanks for sharing, and hope you continue to enjoy the forum. Keith Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
41Roadmaster Posted March 30, 2012 Author Share Posted March 30, 2012 Hi Keith,Thanks for the greetings. "Nearly finished" is where I'd love to be right now! My car is currently stripped down getting some much needed TLC (trying to finally get rid of a 25 year old bondo job!) and is almost ready to prime and paint. Then I'll need a new top...Enjoy driving that Buick!Anderson 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
41Roadmaster Posted March 30, 2012 Author Share Posted March 30, 2012 Thanks Al. Yep, I know these guys well. Lewis and Hill have the car now. For the time being, I've put down my wrench, and picked up my checkbook. There are a few things I just can't do, and need to call in the pros (and boy, these guys know this car.) They are doing the bodywork now, and when I get the dough saved, most likely will provide the top kit.Thanks for the referral,Anderson 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
41Roadmaster Posted May 2, 2012 Author Share Posted May 2, 2012 Hi Al,Unfortunately, there was alot more work to be done to the body than I (or they) expected. Rocker panels, the trunk decking near the latch, and wheel wells all were pretty much held together with bondo and a prayer. It's all been repaired with solid metal, primed and ready to paint. I'm going up to approve the new color next week (Lancaster Grey.)Thanks for asking. How's life in PA treating you? 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Buicknutty Posted May 2, 2012 Share Posted May 2, 2012 Unfortunately, that is common on these cars, and one just doesn't know till it gets taken down to bare metal and all of it's sins are on display! Mine was similar, but worse, and the previous owner had cut out much of the rusted body, then became ill and passed away. So I didn't have much for patterns in some areas. Anyway, be sure to post some pictures of it when its' done, or even some "in progress" shots would be nice to see. Keith Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
41Roadmaster Posted May 7, 2012 Author Share Posted May 7, 2012 Here are a few "before" photos for the archives...a faithful driver in need of some much needed TLC! (HELP'S ON THE WAY OL' FRIEND!) 2 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Buicknutty Posted May 9, 2012 Share Posted May 9, 2012 Anderson, et all; Here is a picture of my '41 McLaughlin Buick Roadmaster coupe, taken on Sunday. As you can see, it is not yet complete, but it's starting to look like a real car again! Keith 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
41Roadmaster Posted May 15, 2012 Author Share Posted May 15, 2012 I posted this under PreWar General but thought to list it here too.1941 Tires & White Wall Question<!-- google_ad_section_end --> <HR SIZE=1><!-- google_ad_section_start -->I'm about to buy new tires from my 1941-76C. I'm looking to purchase as close to original as possible. I thought I had this nailed down, but have recently heard differing opinions on what is correct for my make/model.According to Bill Anderson's Restoration Facts;-Series 60 & 70 have 15 X 700; 4 ply bias-And the 15" tires have 4 1/8" wide white walls (versus 3 3/4"-4" for 16")I've double-checked with Bill and he feels this is correct. Any other 1941 Roadmaster/Century authorities care to weigh in before I spend the dough?Thanks!<!-- google_ad_section_end --> Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
41Roadmaster Posted May 25, 2012 Author Share Posted May 25, 2012 (edited) Regarding tires:I seem to have stumbled onto an area of contention. Opinions are in 2 camps. The 4 1/8" white-wallers, and the 3 1/4" white-wallers. After looking at what's available, and talking to a few of you I've ordered the US Royal, 4-ply bias, 710X15, 3 1/4" white walls. I've also ordered tubes for these for a more authentic look.Thanks for all the feedback! Edited September 17, 2012 by 41Roadmaster size correction, added photo (see edit history) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
old-tank Posted May 25, 2012 Share Posted May 25, 2012 Regarding tires:I seem to have stumbled onto an area of contention. Opinions are in 2 camps. The 4 1/8" white-wallers, and the 3 1/2" white-wallers. After looking at what's available, and talking to a few of you I've ordered the US Royal, 4-ply bias, 710X15, 3 1/2" white walls. I've also ordered tubes for these for a more authentic look.Thanks for all the feedback!I hope you meant 700X15 instead of 710X15 since the latter is a 2" smaller diameter tire and will not look good on that Roadmaster (that size is used 55 Specials, etc). The whitewall proportions will visually be about the same (one inch bigger whitewall on a 1" larger radius) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
41Roadmaster Posted May 26, 2012 Author Share Posted May 26, 2012 I hope you meant 700X15 instead of 710X15 since the latter is a 2" smaller diameter tire and will not look good on that Roadmaster (that size is used 55 Specials, etc). The whitewall proportions will visually be about the same (one inch bigger whitewall on a 1" larger radius)Thanks old-tank. Yep, in a perfect world I'd put on US Royal, 4 ply bias, tube type 700x15's with a 3 1/4" WW (I miswrote 3 1/2"). Unfortunately...I haven't been able to find them in the 700X15 size. The closest I found are the 710X15's. Let me know if you know of someone making the right combination. I'd jump at them! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
old-tank Posted May 26, 2012 Share Posted May 26, 2012 Tire Catalog | Diamond Back Classic White Wall Tires - Vintage Tires - Redline & Redline Radial Tires for Antique and Classic CarsHas a 700-15 radial and they will make the white wall any size you want. They may even do a 700-15 bias...just call and ask. This is one of those rare places where I have never heard them say: can't, don't, won't.Willie Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Buicknutty Posted May 27, 2012 Share Posted May 27, 2012 Diamond Back wide whites radials are what I have on my '41, though the size is modern, 215-15-75, and they do look a bit different from the originals, I'm happy with them. Keith Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
41Roadmaster Posted June 5, 2012 Author Share Posted June 5, 2012 (edited) Here are some photos taken a couple months ago showing disassembly of the car. It's pretty clear a previous owner had done some DIY body work (pop-rivits, liberal amounts of bondo...) to the rocker panels, rear fenders, and trunk.I will be handling the restoration of the dash gauges, chrome, stainless body molding, steering wheel, etc. and Jenkins shop will handle the body work, interior, top and reassembly. Edited June 8, 2012 by 41Roadmaster correction (see edit history) 2 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Buicknutty Posted June 6, 2012 Share Posted June 6, 2012 Wow, it sure is apart! Unfortunately, poor past repairs are common on these old girls, and a nice coat of paint afterwards can hide a multitude of sins. In addition to my '41 Roadmaster coupe, I'm also doing a car for my wife, a 1968 Wildcat convert, and the left rear quarter panel has been hit once, and fixed twice, filled with about an inch or more (no kidding) of bondo. I'm sure that your '41 will look great when done! Keith Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
41Roadmaster Posted June 8, 2012 Author Share Posted June 8, 2012 Keith, I know exactly what you mean...here's a piece of bondo from the lower trunk lip. The strange thing is, once all the bondo in that area was removed, the panel looked great with the exception of one small dent which was easily removed. Heck, the trunk molding fits like a glove now. 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
414TATA Posted June 8, 2012 Share Posted June 8, 2012 Thanks Anderson for the post and pictures. Beautiful Buick. Gotta love those '41s:DEnjoy!Wayne Fresno, Ca.1941 Super 51 original with 24,900 miles. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
41Roadmaster Posted June 8, 2012 Author Share Posted June 8, 2012 Prior to the engine being pulled, the compression was checked and all is good (thanks above!) But clearly I've had some leaky gaskets. Time for some detailing.I heard somewhere (maybe on the forum?) that the manifolds didn't originally have gaskets at the block...just a thin coating of graphite or such. Hard to believe, but does anyone have information on this? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
41Roadmaster Posted June 8, 2012 Author Share Posted June 8, 2012 While Jenkins has been working on the "heavy lifting", I've been working on getting some of the interior items restored. The steering wheel was re-cast by Dennis Crooks at Quality Restoration in Poway CA (858-271-7374.) He also included the resin work for the horn ring, gear shift knob and turn signal. He perfectly matched to a color sample I sent him. Great guy, great work.The chrome refinishing was done by Rick Smith of R&D Finishing in Elizabethton TN (423-543-1722.) They are a shop that focuses on smaller chroming and polishing. Anyone that has had this kind of work done knows it isn't cheap to have it done right, and Rick does it right. Send him your stuff, he'll look at it and call you with a price. If you decide not to do it, he will pay the return shipping. 2 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Buicknutty Posted June 8, 2012 Share Posted June 8, 2012 Looking good Anderson! That piece of bondo is quite interesting. One thing when the metal needs it, another when it doesn't!Keith Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ben Bruce aka First Born Posted June 8, 2012 Share Posted June 8, 2012 Prior to the engine being pulled, the compression was checked and all is good (thanks above!) But clearly I've had some leaky gaskets. Time for some detailing.I heard somewhere (maybe on the forum?) that the manifolds didn't originally have gaskets at the block...just a thin coating of graphite or such. Hard to believe, but does anyone have information on this?That is what the '50 shop manual says. I tried it but it leaked badly. Ben 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Buicknutty Posted June 9, 2012 Share Posted June 9, 2012 When these were new, they would seal without gaskets, but after so many years, most won't. The point is since there is so much expansion of the exhaust manifolds due to heat, they will break. I have used gaskets on my '41, and it seals, with only about 15 ftlbs of torque, and so far no cracks. Some are recommending an anti-seize compound on the sealing surface, to allow them to slide back and forth easily. The manifolds on the dual carb engines are different, more like a V-8, and I'm thinking that they are less prone to this problem, although there are those that have much more experience with these than I. Keith Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Smartin Posted June 9, 2012 Share Posted June 9, 2012 To get the surfaces to seal, both sides must be milled flat. I've done this on several Buick 401, 350, and 455 exhaust manifolds. I only had one problem with a set not wanting to seal, because the manifolds were ground out to flow better, and they were very thin, and prone to warping. All of the others sealed well. I don't know about those big straight 8's though. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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