Hello All,
In March of 2007 we purchased a mostly complete unrestored 1925 Stutz. I have not tinkered with an automoble of this era before and are constantly amazed at how well the auto engineers and craftsmen of that era solved problems with the materials and methods available to them. Except for the use of pot metal of course!!
The history of this Stutz is unique since the dealership that sold the car in 1925 is still an operating dealership. The dealership purchased the car back from the estate of the original owner in 1951. We purchased the Stutz from that dealership. The odometer indicates an accurate 19K miles and the chassis components and engine bottom end reflect this mileage.
We have spent the last year learning how the Stutz was put together, meeting Stutz Club members, researching parts and services, making our first trip to the fall Hershey meet, scraping dirt, cleaning sludge from the oil pan, clearing rust from the water jacket, and, did I mention cleaning dirt.
I found a head gasket so I removed the head and found the valve system to be in good order. I lapped the valves and put the head back on. I left the other engine components alone.
We started the engine two weeks ago after 40 years. It was very exciting.
Since the engine runs and seems to be in sound condition we will proceed with inspecting and working on the brakes so we can take a spin around the block.
The plan at this time is to put the car into very good touring condition with the goal of attending the Stutz 100 year anniversary being held in Indianapolis in 2011.
I am open to all words of wisdom concerning the restoration of this era of automoble.
It is great to have a forum like this to share experiences and knowledge.
I will continue to provide project updates.
sldan
Dan DiThomas
Dublin, Ohio
_________________________
Dan
1925 Stutz 693 Roadster
1951 MG TD
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