1932-33 Buick advice requested

[jps]

For someone who is unfamiliar with the design details of 1932 & 1933 Buicks, can those in-the-know recommend what to watch out for when considering the purchase of one?  Is there a component that often fails or breaks easily, is often out of adjustment, or just doesn't perform well?  How difficult is it to get replacement parts?  I am interested in the 80-90 series cars specifically.

 

As an example, the 1929 model year started using a pot metal fuel "bowl" on the carburetor.  It is very easy to break the threaded fitting off of  the bowl if you try to tighten the fuel line connecting into it.  Also, the heat riser is often a source for leaks and poor engine performance if not blocked off.  Finally, the fan hub requires adding oil at a regular rate and a lot of people forget or don't realize that.  So these are some of the idiosyncrasies for 1929 Buicks; but what are the ones for 1932 & 1933?

 

Thanks for your help.

 

John

[edinmass]

They are great cars. What series? As each different series or “size” offer different challenges. They are above average driving cars for their year.

[jps]

80 or 90 series is preferred, but I might consider 60 series.  And what about a 1933 model 96 and model 91 specifically?

 

Thanks

[jps]

also - how does the heat riser system function as compared to a 1929 - from the 1933 shop manual it sounds a little more automated.  But really I am wondering if it is a source of problems/headaches like it is on the 1929, or was that system improved by 1933?

[Robert Engle]

The heat riser system on 32 Buicks can be a problem.  Most are fitted with new tubes and the exhaust valve divert system disabled.  

 

The oil/ water heat exchangers can be a problem also.  Many have the core removed and the oil lines bypassed.

 

The water jacket on the driverside is often a water leak problem.  Fairly easy to fix.

 

Almost non of the  Wizzard clutch control are operational.  Too much adjustment needed.

Make sure the wood in the body is in good condition.  It's a real pain to repair.

Engine and drive trains are well built and run smooth with proper adjustment.

 

Good Luck with your search

 

Bob Engle