Guest Hal Davis (MODEL A HAL) Posted September 22, 2003 Share Posted September 22, 2003 Someone eluded to this the other day. It got me thinking (dangerous). How many of you want to experience your antiques the way they were in their day? By this, I mean keeping everything original, even if there are better ways to do it nowadays. For instance, 6 volt systems with generators. Generator cut outs rather than voltage regulators. No heat. No A/C. No radio. Points and condensers rather than electronic ignition. Manual spark advance. Manual Transmissions, Etc....You get the point. How many keep it original? Not because of judging, but because you want to get the full experience of what it was like back then. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Amphicar BUYER Posted September 22, 2003 Share Posted September 22, 2003 The only things I changed on my car were purely for safety reasons (updated bilge pump, electronic ign). I listen to the mono radio and usually only (ahem) classic radio stations for the feeling of being there in the mid-60s. I was there, but not very old back then! <img src="http://www.aaca.org/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
6219_Rules Posted September 22, 2003 Share Posted September 22, 2003 I think it is a combination of things really...I left my cars all original EXCEPT when it came to the radio. I loath and abhorr AM these days. So I had the old Delco rebuilt with an FM modulator chip to handle that and the RCA jack for my CD Disc player or MP3 player. It was all done internally to look original...same mono system, no additions. Why? I could have left it that way, I just wanted to be able to listen to music I enjoy on trips...which I have not taken yet for a variety of reasons. Otherwise I like having the old drum brakes, 6Volt systems, the smell of horse hair ... all of these things I remember from my Grandfathers cars. I am never so happy as when I am rumbling around Longmont in my '47. Nuts to modern computers, air f'iing bags and plastic EVERYTHING. Comfort is what you make of it. I am more comfortable in my 47 Caddy than any car I have ever owned. <img src="http://www.aaca.org/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" /> Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
RoadsterRich Posted September 22, 2003 Share Posted September 22, 2003 The Chrysler Roadster will be essentially all original when complete, that is to say using original technology. Obviously many of the parts are modern manufactured or came from donor cars, so the car is not 'all original' in the sense that the parts did not come with the car when new. My one update is the use of stainless steel brake lines. I read the debates and waffled on this decision, however the ultimate choice boiled down to one of safety on this issue. While the original brass (alloy?) may have been safe I could not find them, and did not trust the ones in the car. This left me with replacing them, so stainless steel went in. My one other extravagance I am considering is the treatement of the reflectors in the headlights, I may go with the more modern higher reflection than the original nickle-silver finish. I'm doing my best to keep it as original as possible. If I want to listen to music I'll bring the micro-boom box, or I'll pick up an AM Modulator to run through the original Transitone Radio (assuming I ever find one).Oh, after thought, one other upgrade, the windshield is safety glass.RichPS: Does this make me obsessive compulsive?PPS: If there is a valid safety reason to upgrade something I will consider it. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest imported_56BuickSuper Posted September 22, 2003 Share Posted September 22, 2003 Yes and no. Appearance wise it is pretty much original inside and out. A lot of things have been changed as well. Everything that has been changed from original has been cleaned, lubricated when necessary, labeled, and packed for storage. No original parts were destroyed. Electric windshield wiper motor to replace the stock vacuum one, the new switch is hidden under the dash. Electronic ignition for dependability, stock radio head is in place for appearance but the portion behind the speaker grill has been removed to make room for two smaller speakers for the CD player mounted under the dash, (not mounted to the dash, it hangs from straps bolted to the dash frame) the 12 disk changer is in the trunk and two rear speakers on the package tray. My 300 lb body had issues getting behind the steering wheel so I changed it to a custom wheel of a smaller diameter. I adapted a stock horn button (not the original) to fit the custom wheel and it looks pretty good. When we had AC added they were able to use the original heater/defroster controls and dash vents. Under the hood the original blower motor was removed and of course we had to add a compressor and brackets. A one-wire alternator has replaced the generator, the stock voltage regulator is still in place but not working, and the stock gauge still works. And of course the radial wide white walls.I know there are a lot of point deductions here if you are into car shows that count off for things other than stock equipment, and if that is what you are into that is fine. The wife and I decided to have a car WE could enjoy. We have put over 12,000 miles on her in the last 4 years; the car is driven for vacations, car shows, cruise ins. It gets dirty we wash it., it gets rained on and we dry it. It is a CAR, so what!We enjoy it. We take her to shows that do have classes and participant judging and the old girl does pretty well. We enjoy the people that stop to say they, or their family, or someone they knew had one ?just like it, but a little different?. We have made new friends because of the car, and we will make more. To my wife and I it is not about ?This is a perfect example of a 1956 Buick Super Riviera, model 53, just like it was delivered from the factory? to us it is more about ? Nice car!?.Dan Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
6219_Rules Posted September 22, 2003 Share Posted September 22, 2003 Hazzah! A man after my own heart. While I kept most everything original or period, which is more appropriate, I have also kept the dingy, imperfect chrome, the chipped paint and the slightly smoky exhaust (that will be changed soon) because it is essentially an OLD CAR. I like one poster who so aptly quoted this as the patina of age which the car has earned in its 55 years of life and service. Sure I will continue to keep it as best I can but I recognise the fact that the 1947 Cadillac is an old car, and a valuable reminder of days gone by. Not valuable to collectors it is still a beauty and a hell of a good ride!!Get out and drive them! While you still are allowed the freedom to do so. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
JB-ed Posted September 22, 2003 Share Posted September 22, 2003 At first I thought this initial question was a joke, or some sort of bait. But most responses are reasonable. My 1928 Dodges (five on the road now, same model, different body style) are as original as you can get now a days with the following exceptions (most mentioned before) safety glass, steel, not copper, brake lines, a repro points plate to allow me to swap the unavailable North East points for modern Bosch, and an in-line fuel filter hidden in the frame channel. Swapping the generator for alternator, 12 for 6 volts, and all the rest is senseless, as the car ran quite well when new in 1928 with theoriginal equipment, thank you. I will confess to "hot rodding" a 1928 portable Victrola, concealing a CD player within so I can hear authentic reissued 1928 music when I need the mood. I saved all the original parts and can restore the poor Victrola back to original when the Antique Phono Club comes a-visiting. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Hal Davis (MODEL A HAL) Posted September 22, 2003 Share Posted September 22, 2003 Sorry, not a joke or bait. Just wanting to get an idea how most of you feel. Since several of you have posted now, I will tell you where I fall.To me, there is a certain intrique about running one as original as possible. On my Model A, I can assure you there will never be a 12v system, electronic ignition, synchronized transmission, downdraft carburetor, overdrive unit, automatic spark advance, pressurized oil system, oil filter, electric fans, etc...I did consider having insert bearings put in the engine, but decided against it mainly to save money. I've not had it running long enough to tell for sure, but I may get tired of having to adjust the third brush on the generator depending on how much day or night driving I do. If that becomes the case, I might would consider getting a voltage regulator that looks identical to the cut-out. I would even consider an alternator if someone made one that would fit inside a generator case. To me there is nothing uglier than an alternator under the hood of a 70 year old car. If it looked like the generator, I might consider it.Safety items? I have no problem with that. I have safety glass all the way around (or will when I get done. I'm in the middle of that project). Seat belts are a good idea. I've not put any in mine yet, but I think I will. I did add a fuse to the electrical system. It doesn't look original, but it is cheap insurance. Turn signals, I would consider, but only with a hidden switch and only the ones that use the cowl lights and tail lights. Never the ones that go in the bumper or the big ugly switch that mounts to the column. I'll probably just roll down the window and stick out my arm. It doesn't get that cold here.I do part company with the AACA when it comes to era correct accesories, especially those offered as a dealer option. AACA wants to see the car as it left the factory. I'm a little more forgiving in that aspect. I have no problem with add-on's that are correct for the time period. For example, My car did not have a motometer from the factory, but they were available aftermarket. I will likely put one on my car. I would never install a gauge, though. Not passing judgement on anyone. Just curious as to how many folks think like I do. I suppose you could sum up my position as "If it's invisible, it's OK", with certain exceptions. I do think having to double clutch should just be part of the joy of ownership. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dave@Moon Posted September 23, 2003 Share Posted September 23, 2003 I've never understood the modifications I've seen on antique cars. I'd advocate just about anything that is saftey or preservation related on any driven car. But I'm sure before long there'll be someone posting here from some hot climate who simply can't stand the idea of driving their Kaiser without a/c and/or cruise control. Also someone is just going to have to have a Petronix kit to make sure they're getting perfect ignition spark for all of the 360 miles they'll drive this year. I just don't understand that. I liken it to camping. For some people camping isn't complete unless they're watching the latest James Bond DVD in their air conditioned 42' motor home, sipping chilled port. You can spend a night in Yellowstone and see hundreds of such people. I think if you can't hear the wind and insects while lying on the ground looking at the stars, the you're missing the best part.I like setting my points and adjusting my carbs. I enjoy driving with the windows open, listening to a humming tube AM radio. I'm experiencing something that just sitting inside neatly styled sheet metal while having an otherwise mudane experience doesn't re-create. <img src="http://www.aaca.org/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" /> Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Skyking Posted September 23, 2003 Share Posted September 23, 2003 I'm with Dave on the above with one exception, the radio, I like listening to my 50's & 60's music collection, whether in tapes or CD format........ Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest imported_PackardV8 Posted September 23, 2003 Share Posted September 23, 2003 100% originality is not really attainable for certain aspects of a car. e.g. the tires. Prior to the early 80's the diagonal and bias belted tires were just fine. But those are not available anymore in terms of actual construction quality. 6v parts are becomming scarce and modern accessories are not compatable. What about lubricants???? Fuel???? Cant get those anymore like the old days. So the concept of owning and operating in the same manner as many years ago is less than a moot point to the extent of being vacuous.I strive very hard to keep my humble collection as original in appearence and mechanically as possible. I hate to drill a non production hole in any thing.Sometimes its just not practicle to hold originality on even the finest of drivers. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Amphicar BUYER Posted September 23, 2003 Share Posted September 23, 2003 <div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Quote:</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I hate to drill a non production hole in any thing.</div></div> When I built the hand controls (I am paralyzed) for my Amphicar's 4 speed, manual trans, I went to great lengths to avoid the drill. In the end, I had to drill one hole to pass the clutch cable through to the power booster/master in the trunk. On my 66 Cadillac I spend the better part of an afternoon reconfiguring a nice stereo to fit the dash instead of the other way around. The Cadillac's radio had both shafts to the left of the face, the new stereo had one on each side.John Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Hal Davis (MODEL A HAL) Posted September 23, 2003 Share Posted September 23, 2003 Amphicar,Does the bouy in your photo say "No Boats"? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Amphicar BUYER Posted September 23, 2003 Share Posted September 23, 2003 <div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Quote:</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Does the bouy in your photo say "No Boats"? </div></div> Yup it does! Just moments before that pic was shot, I had got into trouble from the Park Rangers about driving into the water off the beach. (My tracks are in the background on the left between the trucks). So just outside the "no boats" the pic was taken by a couple of lovlies in a paddle boat. MMMmmm. <img src="http://www.aaca.org/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/cool.gif" alt="" /> Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest DeSoto Frank Posted September 23, 2003 Share Posted September 23, 2003 "Creature Comforts" ? In a pre -1970 car????There was a guy @ Macungie this August with a Model"A" sedan with a Honda generator strapped to the luggage rack, and a small(household) window A/C unit fitted into the driver's side rear door window, with some plywood supports down to the running board... he said it made summer touring a lot more enjoyable.As it was over 90 degrees that day, I couldn't argue with him.(Will look for the pic and try to post it...)Very subjective topic....I have driven a variety of 6-volt vehicles since getting my license 20 years ago. and have not converted any of them to 12 volt.... only one that came close to the was my '54 Chevy truck that has always had a presistent hot-start/slow cranking problem.My oldest driver presently is my mostly un-restored '41 De Soto. Still 6-volt, still running 6.50 x 16 tires (G-year all-weather diamond tread repros)... only "creature comfort" that came with my car was the MoPar heater/defroster...no radio, no clock, and I think I'll keep it that way.The only "mod" I'm really contemplating is the installation of an overdrive tranny from a 1940 De Soto, to make highway travel more practical. But I will install said OD in such a way that only an"expert" would know it "doesn't belong there" (De Soto did not offer OD after 1940....), using stock components.I have up-graded the rear lights to include turn signals, but have done so with creative re-wiring, not by adding aftermarket lights to the car, so I applaud your wanting to use the cowl lights for turn sigs....I am hot to get a Model "T", and plan on making it a driver, so I am thinking about stuff like Kevlar bands and the GM TH-350 clutch plates in the trans; perhaps a water pump, perhaps halogen bulbs in the headlights; electric lights in the oil side lamps/tail lamp, etc.....would try to keep it as original as possible/practical. Would probably keep the flywheel mag and the low tension timer/trembler coils....I certainly like my cars to "look" stock.I also think that any modifications done to a car should be "reversible", so that you/me or "the next guy", can put it back to factory stock.That's pretty much my take on the subject...if a car is going to be a driver, then I like it to be reliable.My De Soto is pretty good the way the factory built it (excpet for the stump puller rear end). I really don't miss the radio when I'm driving the De Soto; A/C would be nice, but I'm not going there...for one thing, I'd have to add a luggage rack, then I'd have to buy a generator... <img src="http://www.aaca.org/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/crazy.gif" alt="" /> Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Hal Davis (MODEL A HAL) Posted September 23, 2003 Share Posted September 23, 2003 I thought that was what that said. That's funny! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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