franc944 Posted May 27, 2015 Share Posted May 27, 2015 (edited) Greeting all.I thought I would start a new post on the restoration progress of my 1990 Select 60I bought this car on Ebay from Tom Benvie in Massachusetts. This was originally a Chicago car that spend time in LA California before coming to Massachusetts and now Connecticut.I am starting with getting the car running.So I have replaced every fuel line, brake line, and steering component due to leaks as well as rear struts.Though the brake lines were rotted, there is remarkably little rust under the car and I will treat those spots with POR 15 and a chassis black.I sent the transmission from a running parts car out to be rebuilt and once I have that back we should have a running car and can then begin the bodywork and interior restoration.This will be a rolling restoration. Edited May 28, 2015 by franc944 (see edit history) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Cargirl Posted May 27, 2015 Share Posted May 27, 2015 What a great car to save and restore, your my hero!! Good luck with the resto and keep us posted! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest HuevosRanchero Posted May 27, 2015 Share Posted May 27, 2015 interior looks really nice ...just a few little things to do to the exterior once you are running and driving. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
franc944 Posted May 28, 2015 Author Share Posted May 28, 2015 I just got some bad news from my transmission builder.Broken parts have to come from GM.It could take two weeks to get them.That will give me time to do the front struts and treat the rust on the bottom on the car and swap the hood and latch over Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
franc944 Posted May 28, 2015 Author Share Posted May 28, 2015 (edited) The cooling system is in perfect condition.I flushed and replaced coolant and thermostat anyway but there was no rust. Water pump looks to have already been replaced. It did need a new radiator cap.Exhaust looks great and looks like it was also replaced though I will be doing the O2 sensor for good measure.I installed the suggested aftermarket power steering cooler because the original was rusted through and the bracket was broken.I have a parts car I can get an original power steering cooler off of that is original.Who votes for used original power steering cooler and who votes for shiny new aftermarket cooler? Edited May 28, 2015 by franc944 (see edit history) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jscheib Posted May 28, 2015 Share Posted May 28, 2015 franc944, Where are you located in CT? I am also in CT and would welcome you to the BCA and local Yankee Chapter. I have a '90 convertible. John 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
dship Posted May 28, 2015 Share Posted May 28, 2015 (edited) IMO, I'd wire brush and repaint an original power steering cooler. Edited May 28, 2015 by DShip (see edit history) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
franc944 Posted May 28, 2015 Author Share Posted May 28, 2015 (edited) I am in. I am just south of Hartford. Rocky HillPm me or reply with a link to your club or let me know how to join please.Thanksfranc944,Where are you located in CT? I am also in CT and would welcome you to the BCA and local Yankee Chapter. I have a '90 convertible.John Edited May 28, 2015 by franc944 (see edit history) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
franc944 Posted May 28, 2015 Author Share Posted May 28, 2015 (edited) There does not appear to be any oil leaks and it has been my experience to leave alone things like a rear main seal that are not broken because disturbing things may make problems worse in the long run but while I have the transmission out should I replace the rear main seal and oil pan gasket?It is a 100,000 mile car but like I said it isn't leaking yet but I know from experience these parts are cheap and if I put in the rebuilt trans and I get an oil leak later from the rear main or oil pan that it is much more work in the long run.What else should I change while the trans is out? Edited May 28, 2015 by franc944 (see edit history) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Corvanti Posted May 28, 2015 Share Posted May 28, 2015 as a DIY person - on most things - i usually take a: "well, while i'm here i might as well repair..." whatever would take the same tear-down... if your pocketbook allows having the additional repairs done by the mechanic, i'd go for it - for peace of mind. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ronnie Posted May 28, 2015 Share Posted May 28, 2015 What else should I change while the trans is out? Check motor and transmission mounts.Check CV joints in the half shafts.Check the power steering rack and hoses going to it for leaks.Check the freeze plugs. They might be easier to change, if needed, with the transmission out. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
wws944 Posted May 29, 2015 Share Posted May 29, 2015 I just got some bad news from my transmission builder.Broken parts have to come from GM.It could take two weeks to get them.That will give me time to do the front struts and treat the rust on the bottom on the car and swap the hood and latch over Looks like a broken thrust washer. Common problem in our transmissions. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
DAVES89 Posted May 29, 2015 Share Posted May 29, 2015 I agree on the thrust washer. I had that happen to the Black's transmission. Still got over 20,000 miles before it had to be replaced. You have it out may as well do it. Also be sure to replace the axle seals in the tranny. They are real hard to replace later when the tranny is installed. 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
franc944 Posted May 30, 2015 Author Share Posted May 30, 2015 I got the $180 Pioneer master rebuild kit from Rock auto and it looks like it came with the axel seals so will do.In my quest to be thorough I am changing the ac condenser and accumulator n orifice n o rings.I would like to get new ac lines but my search tells me you can't find them.Doesn't anyone have a solution?Is original old ones or custom made new the only way to go? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest PontiacDude210 Posted May 30, 2015 Share Posted May 30, 2015 I just wanna drop in and say I'm wishing you luck. That S60 deserves a good revamp. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jscheib Posted May 30, 2015 Share Posted May 30, 2015 Did you get my PM about our informal breakfast gathering at Mitchell's on Main in Cromwell, this morning at 9 AM? All are welcome. Just look for someone with Buick logo on a shirt or cap. Usually about 10-12 people. John Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
franc944 Posted May 31, 2015 Author Share Posted May 31, 2015 YesThank you JohnThis weekend I am not availableI am camping with the scouts.I would like to meet up next time.Did you get my PM about our informal breakfast gathering at Mitchell's on Main in Cromwell, this morning at 9 AM? All are welcome. Just look for someone with Buick logo on a shirt or cap. Usually about 10-12 people. John Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
franc944 Posted June 4, 2015 Author Share Posted June 4, 2015 (edited) It's coming alongAc now blows coldChanging the hood, supports, latch n cable.Tranny parts are in Edited June 4, 2015 by franc944 (see edit history) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Barney Eaton Posted June 5, 2015 Share Posted June 5, 2015 What else should I change with the transmission out......... The engine freeze plugs especially on the transmission side, they are a bear to do with the transmission in place..It does not seem to be a problem but I had one leaking on a 1991 with only 30K miles. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Rp1967 Posted June 5, 2015 Share Posted June 5, 2015 You may be able to use your old alum line ends and have new hose crimped on.Used to be able to by ac rated hose in bulk, and a hydraulic shop should be able to crimp themQuote"I got the $180 Pioneer master rebuild kit from Rock auto and it looks like it came with the axel seals so will do.In my quest to be thorough I am changing the ac condenser and accumulator n orifice n o rings.I would like to get new ac lines but my search tells me you can't find "quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
padgett Posted June 7, 2015 Share Posted June 7, 2015 Can't find what please ? I have a couple of O-ring kits I bought online. Every AC connection has a O-ring. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
franc944 Posted June 8, 2015 Author Share Posted June 8, 2015 Can't find what please ? I have a couple of O-ring kits I bought online. Every AC connection has a O-ring.I am sorry. I could not find the A/C lines sold new anywhere. I did not realize they were unique to the Reatta I figured like the compressor and evaporator they were the same used on the Riviera and Trofeo etc. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
padgett Posted June 8, 2015 Share Posted June 8, 2015 The ones that run along the fenderwell and the cowl ? I suspect those will need to be custom made. Do ones for a Riviera fit ? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
franc944 Posted June 21, 2015 Author Share Posted June 21, 2015 So I knew the car needed new strut-rod bushings, subframe bushings and bolts as well as transmission cooler lines.My transmission guy suggestions I replace the Whole sub frame from the parts car due to a little rust.What do you guys think?Should I buy a used sub frame and keep my parts car a roller? Anyone in CT want to sell me a sub-frame? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ronnie Posted June 21, 2015 Share Posted June 21, 2015 Are those photos showing what you call "a little rust"? Below is how mine looks after 25+ years in Tennessee without salt and always kept in a garage. From what I see in your photos I would definitely replace the sub-frame. If your parts car has rust I wouldn't consider using it. Connecticut? Are you sure you want to get another sub-frame from the rust belt? If I were going to go to all the trouble of replacing a sub-frame I would want it to come from a car that's not been exposed to salt. 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
franc944 Posted June 21, 2015 Author Share Posted June 21, 2015 So does someone want to sell me a rust-free sub-frame quick?P.m. me your dealDoes anyone know what other cars use the same subframe ? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
NCReatta Posted June 21, 2015 Share Posted June 21, 2015 We have several rust free subframes in stock. I am driving north next week to drop off a car. Not all the way to Connecticut but if you could meet me it'd save you $350 in shipping. I would also suggest replacing the control arms that come off the subframe. We have rust free ones in stock as well.Shoot me an email marck@EastCoastReattaParts.com Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
franc944 Posted June 25, 2015 Author Share Posted June 25, 2015 (edited) I decided to pull the complete sub frame from the parts car. I know you guys will love the pic of my ghetto-shade tree 2x6 and rachet strap engine hoist Edited June 25, 2015 by franc944 (see edit history) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
franc944 Posted June 27, 2015 Author Share Posted June 27, 2015 So I used engine degreaser and power washed the parts car sub frame down I wiped thewhole thing down with solvent. I realized I had enough surface rust to use up some POR15 I had on hand.I scrubbed it all down with a wire brush and blew it off with air compressor and wiped again.2 coats of por15 and the. I will spray it with vht gm satin black engine paint.Then to slap on some new parts.I still need tranny cooler lines. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
DAVES89 Posted June 28, 2015 Share Posted June 28, 2015 Tramsmission lines are no longer available. I bought a set about 7 years ago and was told I was "lucky" to get them. You may want to try a hydrallic line place,maybe they can make one up for you. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Machiner 55 Posted July 1, 2015 Share Posted July 1, 2015 Franc, If you haven't already, you should check the metal and bushings at the ends of the reaction rods (struts) that come off of the lower control arms and through the frame. Over the years, the rod rusts away into an hourglass shape at the point where it goes through the frame, weakening the metal. It may then snap off. The only way to see this is to remove the rubber bushings and the arm from the frame. Easier to do while you have the frame out in the open. John F. 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
franc944 Posted December 19, 2018 Author Share Posted December 19, 2018 After 3 long years the body shop has started on the full respray! i couldn’t be more excited to see this being done. There is true hope this project will be done and driving by spring time! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Barney Eaton Posted December 19, 2018 Share Posted December 19, 2018 (edited) Glad to see someone saving on of these special cars. Don't know if you found the transmission lines...........they would be the same as a Riviera, of which there were many more built. Some of the people here that live in the south might be able to find you some good lines. I would volunteer but the closest yard to me is about 35 miles and even Rivieras of that vintage are hard to find. Edited December 19, 2018 by Barney Eaton (see edit history) 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
nic walker Posted December 23, 2018 Share Posted December 23, 2018 Grand Undertaking Sir.....I wish you Great Success, and Best, Nic 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
franc944 Posted January 4, 2019 Author Share Posted January 4, 2019 OK, Does anyone know the closest color code for the ACC carpet kit I can order new for the FLAME red interior? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Barney Eaton Posted January 4, 2019 Share Posted January 4, 2019 I would cut off a sample of the original carpet and send to them......... go to the passenger foot well and cut of a corner at the upper corner...... 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
franc944 Posted June 11, 2019 Author Share Posted June 11, 2019 (edited) Small update. The bumpers come off this week to see what if anything needs to be replaced to make the bumpers line up correctly. I’d like to replace the moldings. Does anyone have new old stock or refurbished? Does anyone one have any tips on getting the parts car trunk open with no engine trans fuse box or battery in it? I need the abs module from the trunk for another project. Edited June 11, 2019 by franc944 (see edit history) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ronnie Posted June 11, 2019 Share Posted June 11, 2019 5 minutes ago, franc944 said: Does anyone one have any tips on getting the parts car trunk open with no engine trans fuse box or battery in it? There is a manual release on the latch in the trunk. It is the orange lever you see in the photo. You should be able to get at it through the pass through door behind the seats. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
franc944 Posted June 11, 2019 Author Share Posted June 11, 2019 (edited) 13 minutes ago, franc944 said: Small update. The bumpers come off this week to see what if anything needs to be replaced to make the bumpers line up correctly. I’d like to replace the moldings. Does anyone have new old stock or refurbished? Does anyone one have any tips on getting the parts car trunk open with no engine trans fuse box or battery in it? I need the abs module from the trunk for another project. Ok no one freak out over the body filler. The metal was properly repaired and there is just a thin amount on there as is appropriate. No rust being covered. Edited June 11, 2019 by franc944 (see edit history) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
franc944 Posted June 11, 2019 Author Share Posted June 11, 2019 4 minutes ago, Ronnie said: There is a manual release on the latch in the trunk. It is the orange lever you see in the photo. You should be able to get at it through the pass through door behind the seats. Have you got a pic handy of where the abs module I need is in the coupe trunk? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Create an account or sign in to comment
You need to be a member in order to leave a comment
Create an account
Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!
Register a new accountSign in
Already have an account? Sign in here.
Sign In Now