| Author | Message | ||
     ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1354 Registered: 11-2015 |
For you viewing displeasure during the extended Covid 19 stay at home protocols. I present, the worst example, of the worst model year, of the biggest failure in America motoring... The 1959 Edsel  | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1355 Registered: 11-2015 |
I've done a lot of old cars over the years but this is the bottom of the bottom. | ||
| Benoit Leus Frequent User Username: benoitleus Post Number: 411 Registered: 06-2009 |
I like it, Ross. | ||
| Larry Kavanagh Frequent User Username: shadow_11 Post Number: 618 Registered: 05-2016 |
me too Benoit. | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1356 Registered: 11-2015 |
I started it just to make sure the engine was good It's always the same... Check engine oil shows on dipstick Check trans oil shows on dipstick Clean the points Run a 1gal fuel tank to the pump. Turn the engine over by hand once Disconnect the fuel line at the carb Fill the carb through the vent Pull the dizzy main ht lead Check for spark Crank motor until oil light goes out. Put primary ht lead back on the dizzy Fire motor until it starts Run enough to purge fuel from the pump Put the fuel line back on the carb. If that all works, then you fill it with water and tranny oil and run it up to temp. | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1357 Registered: 11-2015 |
  The water pump and thermostat housing we're pretty nasty. Luckily the block was clean. | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1358 Registered: 11-2015 |
Carb got built out of some spares.  | ||
| David Gore Moderator Username: david_gore Post Number: 3660 Registered: 04-2003 |
Ross, An all-time classic "ugly duckling" that will become very collectable with the passage of time and the number of "survivors" left are limited. IMHO well worth the time and expense involved in a proper restoration provided you have somewhere to safely store it for the future.  | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1359 Registered: 11-2015 |
David, This car has a long way to go before getting a proper restoration. First it will get some LONG overdue conservation. I will be keeping things stock, with the exception of seat belts, dual circuit brakes and a sediment bowl fuel filter / water separator | ||
| Omar M. Shams Prolific User Username: omar Post Number: 1985 Registered: 04-2009 |
I think this is a beautiful car. Well done for bringing her back to life Ross. | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1360 Registered: 11-2015 |
Omar, It certainly is distinctive if not conventionally beautiful. I completely agree that the car should be saved and driven and enjoyed. They did a pretty good job with the name... Here's the list they didn't choose The Intelligent Whale Mongoose Civique Pluma Piluma Anticipator Regna Racer The Silver Sword Dearborn Pastelogram Magigravure Utopian Turtletop Turcotinga Varsity Stroke Fée Rapide Bullett Lavolta A lot of good choices there. | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1361 Registered: 11-2015 |
Hippies sealing the hood orniments? Hard to believe that was ever a thing. | ||
| Brian Vogel Grand Master Username: guyslp Post Number: 3026 Registered: 06-2009 |
I really never quite understood what was so awful about the Edsel to so many. I've always kinda liked it, and once almost bought one. I can still remember when I started kindergarten in 1967, all of us huddled at the bus stop, save one girl whose mother or father drove her to the stop and kept her in the car until the bus came. One of their cars was a brand new Oldsmobile and the other was an Edsel. The Edsel was much more intriguing. It was also in use for many years after that. Sadly, it was eventually parked in their back yard and allowed to rust to pieces over a period of about 20 years. For all I know it might very well still be (at least whatever is left of it) in that spot not far behind what was their house. Brian | ||
| Patrick Ryan Grand Master Username: patrick_r Post Number: 2225 Registered: 04-2016 |
I like it as well Ross. Love the colour combo. Any more pics of the interior or under bonnet? I agree, some preservation is needed, but then could you just clear coat it and use it as is? That seems to be the way lots of people do it these days. I think it looks cool just the way it is. I do like the front end very much. Great story Brian, It’s a shame people just got sick of cars and parked them up in front it back yards. I could never understand why they do it. | ||
| Brian Vogel Grand Master Username: guyslp Post Number: 3028 Registered: 06-2009 |
Patrick, I don't think it's a matter of "got sick of," per se. Most cars have finite service lives, and some of us, but not all, drive 'em till they drop. Think about it. Even if that car had been a 1959 (and I think it was later than 1957 based on my memory of the larger "toilet seat" in the middle of the grill - which, by the way, I like better) by 1967 it was already 8 years old and I know it was driven for at least 5 years after that. Cars of that era making it 13 years as daily drivers was exceptional, particularly where I lived and before the days of rustproofing and/or the use of plastics where "the slop" from salted winter roads gets thrown. Until the 1970s, my father routinely sold his cars all at age 4 because he didn't want them around long enough to begin rusting through, and they would generally do that between the ages of 5 and 7 where I lived. His 1973 International Scout (which I hated - it had a huge yet underpowered V6 that guzzled gas) began rusting out practically as soon as we got it home from the dealer! I think some of these ended up in back yards because the owners thought one of two things: 1. I love that car. Eventually I'll get around to getting it roadworthy again as a "pleasure vehicle." 2. This is going to be worth something, so I'll keep it around until I can sell it. I have no idea of what Mr. Helsel's thinking was, though, and I have seen people just park all sorts of cars and never move them again. In his case, it took a specific space at the edge of the lawn where none of their daily drivers ever sat. Brian | ||
| Patrick Ryan Grand Master Username: patrick_r Post Number: 2226 Registered: 04-2016 |
You are right Brian. We are so lucky here to not have the salted road issues you guys and the UK have. Some Aussie cars are now being shipped back to the UK or the USA as they can be pretty rust free. And I completely understand what you are saying, plus like you, I do remember fondly walking past cars for years on my way to school. I guess there are only 2 things that can happen just as you mentioned. Leave car in yard for many years and it just rusts away, and is basically scrap. Leave car in yard for many years, and it survives ok, and then all of a sudden it is worth a lot of money. But then I have also seen that the car that becomes valuable, the owner still won’t sell. (Do you guys remember my post from a couple of years ago that showed the 4 or 5 Shadows just rusting away in a local front yard) Then more years pass and it becomes scrap as well. It’s a bit of a balancing act isn’t it. We had International Scouts here as well I loved them, but they were usually V8’s. | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1363 Registered: 11-2015 |
Brian, I've never really had any interest in owning an Edsel, but sometimes these things just show up. It certainly has character. Patrick, I put a new set of tires on it so now it is sitting level, pressure washed the entire car exterior and engine bay, and cleaned the valve gear. I ran some kerosene and MMO in with the engine oil so I can't run it again until I drain that out. | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1364 Registered: 11-2015 |
 Here is a shot of the dash. The shifter knob turned to powder and landed on the floor along with the radio knobs. | ||
| Patrick Ryan Grand Master Username: patrick_r Post Number: 2227 Registered: 04-2016 |
All in all, she looks pretty good inside. It only took some basic work to get her going. Good work mate. I really like the green. | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1366 Registered: 11-2015 |
Patrick R, I must say, the color scheme screams 1959 the perfect color for the car. It's been a pluvial wonderland this last few days so no Edsel work, but tomorrow afternoon it's supposed to be dry and sunny. The list is not short, but I've had many worse. In order it's something like this 0. Seat belts 1. Cooling system 1.5 oil change 1.6 fuel system 2. Service brakes 3. Parking brake 4. Wipers 4.5 lights 5. Door locks and window mechanism lube 6. Rust hole patches 6. DOT (MOT) 7. Chassis lube 8. Interior cleanup 9. Diff fluid 10. Proper battery mount 11. Metal body repair 12. Rain gutter reseal 13. Etc | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1367 Registered: 11-2015 |
Oh, yeah. I have to make up a "utopian turtletop" bumper sticker too | ||
| Patrick Ryan Grand Master Username: patrick_r Post Number: 2228 Registered: 04-2016 |
That’s not a bad list mate, nothing to horrible there. An enjoyable job I think. As I said, I like a green car (see Toyota Corona) I have started another thread to show you another car I got at the same time as the Corona. | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1376 Registered: 11-2015 |
I changed the oil today. I didn't have to look up the filter because that was when Fords took a FL1A filter. I polished up the chrome on the glove box to check it. I tried the old standby, carnuba wax and fine pumice. It should clean up fine.  I pulled the door latch mechanisms for a CLA heavy on the L. The window crank handle Knobs are of a plastic that doesn't like getting old.  | ||
| Patrick Ryan Grand Master Username: patrick_r Post Number: 2243 Registered: 04-2016 |
Mate, She is looking very promising. Looks like you have found a great car. | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1396 Registered: 11-2015 |
I've made good progress but not much in the way of pictures as I have been commuting from Massachusetts to Wisconsin which is a pretty big time soak. I've been driving it in and out of the garage with only the parking brake. Almost everything has been purchased and here's the tally 20 USD Cunifer brake line 24 USD 67 mustang master cylinder 180 USD tires 4 USD Fan belt 3 USD Power steering belt 6 USD Wipers 37 USD front and rear brake hoses 12 USD upper radiator hose 14 USD lower radiator hose 58 USD water pump 19 USD valve cover gasket 275 USD registration I wanted to put the car on the road for nothing but some things have to be purchased I did find a free key fob in the gutter while out for a walk.  | ||
| Patrick Ryan Grand Master Username: patrick_r Post Number: 2262 Registered: 04-2016 |
Wow Ross. That is a big drive! Maps are showing 1142 miles (1827km) and 17.5 hours. How many times have you done that of late? Your tally of costings is quite amazing. It just goes to show how cheap car parts are in the US compared to here in Oz. Excluding tyres and rego, your total is $197. Amazing. $24 USD for a brake master cylinder? That would be at least $170 AUD Belts & wiper blades $13USD. Those 3 items here would be over $60-$70AUD. I paid $95AUD for 2 wiper blades for an S430 I bought a little while ago. Love the key fob. I am still trying to find one that is just right for the Holden, as the previous owner kept it as it was his dads, and he put his car keys on it. Thanks for the update, I’ve been wondering how it has been coming along. | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1397 Registered: 11-2015 |
Patrick R, Google says this but if you try you can get them for $24, mine was a rebuild from RockAuto. Kind of spoiled here with parts for old American iron and spoiled with old american iron as well. 1142 for that drive is incredibly accurate. I did the trip yesterday in 16. With the "Covobahn" that run can be completed in 14h12m or so I hear. What was the Holden key fob? It is of the right vintage for one of those leather key purse things, or did those never pass the equator? | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1398 Registered: 11-2015 |
Here's the current do list 0. Seat belts 1.6 fuel system 2. Service brakes 4. Wipers 6. Rust hole patches 6. DOT (MOT) 7. Chassis lube 8. Interior cleanup 9. Diff fluid 11. Metal body repair 12. Rain gutter reseal 13. anti sway bar bushings 14. power steering check | ||
| Patrick Ryan Grand Master Username: patrick_r Post Number: 2263 Registered: 04-2016 |
That’s a nice comprehensive list Ross, but all very manageable. That’s a nice couple of weekends work. Yes I am constantly amazed at what I see on some TV shows that have been pulled out of barns, and the cost of new parts to get them running. When I saw the Holden, The keys were on a really nice folding leather key case, that had one press stud on it, and could hold about 6 keys. It was embossed with the selling dealers name on one side, and the Holden logo on the other. I was a bit disappointed it came with a credit union (bank) type new key ring  | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1399 Registered: 11-2015 |
Patrick R, A period leather fob with the dealers name embossed on it is going to be hard to beat. Now you have something better than that fob, ... a quest. Good hunting. | ||
| Patrick Ryan Grand Master Username: patrick_r Post Number: 2264 Registered: 04-2016 |
Sigh I’ve looked at hundreds on line Ross, but haven’t had the “THATS IT” moment. I even saw a Kangaroo scrotum key case. So I’m struggling mate | ||
| Omar M. Shams Grand Master Username: omar Post Number: 2026 Registered: 04-2009 |
car boot sales/ jumble sales. That is where you are likely to get them. | ||
| Patrick Ryan Grand Master Username: patrick_r Post Number: 2265 Registered: 04-2016 |
Good point Omar. I’ll have to see if we have any back up and running now our lockdown here in NSW is being wound back slowly. | ||
| David Gore Moderator Username: david_gore Post Number: 3697 Registered: 04-2003 |
Patrick, See if you can pick up a vintage Holden badge from Ebay or car swap meet and get a professional or hobbyist leather worker to make a case exactly as you prefer. A few dollars will be involved but you should be able to pick and choose exactly what you would like. The kangaroo scrotum items are a huge "must have" purchase for Japanese tourists - not so for the kangaroos!! | ||
| Patrick Ryan Grand Master Username: patrick_r Post Number: 2266 Registered: 04-2016 |
Good idea David. If ever the gang come down under for a visit, we could give them all key rings in a kangaroo scrotum. Very Aussie!  | ||
| David Gore Moderator Username: david_gore Post Number: 3698 Registered: 04-2003 |
The kangaroos are already getting nervous as this proposal has gone out on the "bush telegraph"!!! | ||
| Omar M. Shams Grand Master Username: omar Post Number: 2029 Registered: 04-2009 |
I once knew someone who had a nice bush.... | ||
| Patrick Lockyer. Grand Master Username: pat_lockyer Post Number: 2312 Registered: 09-2004 |
Seems todays bushes on the later models have all gone! | ||
| Patrick Ryan Grand Master Username: patrick_r Post Number: 2267 Registered: 04-2016 |
Omar, I thought you were more in line with a perfectly aligned rear end? However, Being a bush specialist is pretty rare these days. I hope you have a quality reeming tool for those bushes that inevitably are undersized? However I know there is no one more qualified than you Omar to sort that rear end out! | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1401 Registered: 11-2015 |
Omar and Patrick, I looked up "Surviving in the Aussie bush" and found a page by bush expert Bob Cooper . It had a bunch of suggestions ranging from ... "Be sure to pack Condy’s crystals (aka potassium permanganate), which can be used to treat a number of skin conditions including fungal infections, impetigo, superficial wounds, and tropical ulcers." to "Conserve your energy and try not to let fear cloud your head" and "Do not apply ice. It doesn’t help and wastes time" This leads me to my question, "what sort of country are you running down there?" | ||
| Omar M. Shams Grand Master Username: omar Post Number: 2031 Registered: 04-2009 |
Dear Patrick and Ross, the bush and the rear end are both fantastic places to visit. Both have their attractions..... | ||
| David Gore Moderator Username: david_gore Post Number: 3699 Registered: 04-2003 |
Omar, Surely you mean the "Outback" and "Top End" [Northern Australia]?? The "Bush" and "Rear End" also have other connotations here!! | ||
| Patrick Ryan Grand Master Username: patrick_r Post Number: 2272 Registered: 04-2016 |
Ross, I hope that this lockdown hasn’t hurt your efforts with getting the Edsel completed. I finally found a nice key case for the Holden.   I wanted a case rather than a key ring, as the paint on the dash under the ignition switch can get damaged from a swinging key chain. | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1414 Registered: 11-2015 |
Patrick R, The key purse looks period. The keys are going to be a tricky, they are the keys that came with the car so they have character and patins on the other hand they are both ignition blanks, so the brass one should really be the door blank. There is some Edsel progress which I will photograph and present with a new updated to do list. The universe it seems is not as intrested in Edsels as I am however and made other plans for the spring. C'est la vie, comme il disant. | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1415 Registered: 11-2015 |
Here's the current to do list. 0. Seat belts 1.6 fuel system 4. Wipers 5. idler arm bushing 6. solder radiator leak 6. Rust hole patches 7. DOT (MOT) 7. Chassis lube 8. Interior cleanup 9. Diff fluid 11. Metal body repair 13. anti sway bar bushings 14. power steering check | ||
| Patrick Ryan Grand Master Username: patrick_r Post Number: 2273 Registered: 04-2016 |
Hi mate. That list is dwindling, still a few decent jobs. Ross. I found that key case in my sisters junk draw lol The brass key is for the locking fuel cap which was an accessory fitted a few years after purchase so he told me. This 4th model from Holden still only had 1 key that opened the doors and the ignition, but also did the glove box and boot (trunk) The next model (FB which I just sold) had a seperate key for the glovebox, but the ignition key did the rest | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1416 Registered: 11-2015 |
Patrick R, One key, how contemporary. | ||
| Patrick Ryan Grand Master Username: patrick_r Post Number: 2274 Registered: 04-2016 |
Like all early Holdens (and me) very simple  | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1419 Registered: 11-2015 |
I was going to solder the radiator but upon cleaning the radiator to was clear the radiator was a lost cause. I was telling the story to a friend who asked how big it was. I needed a 16" x 24" and my friend had one the was 17.5" x 24.5". It is a brand new AL side tank unit I own a welder so that size is what we call an exact fit!  | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1422 Registered: 11-2015 |
Patrick R, If you mail me the keychain, I can laser etch the holden logo on it like the one that got away. | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1423 Registered: 11-2015 |
Patrick R, My keychain is in quite a state but like it's owner has the sabi aesthetic in spades.  | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1424 Registered: 11-2015 |
The wiper works from the working side. Washer and rivet securing the two pieces.  The non working side.  The inside of the vacuum motor top.  The inside of the vacuum motor bottom.  I see rebuilding a vacuum wiper motor in my future. | ||
| Patrick Ryan Grand Master Username: patrick_r Post Number: 2275 Registered: 04-2016 |
Yep, That wiper mechanism has a few issues. Ross is that scoring inside the top? Or is it just corrosion or dirt? Thanks Ross I will need to send you the correct Holden logo for this year/model as they changed them quite a bit over the years. | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1425 Registered: 11-2015 |
Patrick, The scoring you see is in fact scoring. These vacuum motors are pretty indestructable but this one is going to need some help. I'll PM you my address and when you figure out what should be on the key fob, just send it out. | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1428 Registered: 11-2015 |
Time to isntall the radiator. First, weld on some brackets.  Left side needed some trimming  Right side needed some trimming as well too.  Edsel radiator repair kit.  | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1440 Registered: 11-2015 |
The new tally 20 USD Cunifer brake line 24 USD 67 mustang master cylinder 180 USD tires 4 USD Fan belt 3 USD Power steering belt 6 USD Wipers 37 USD front and rear brake hoses 12 USD upper radiator hose 14 USD lower radiator hose 58 USD water pump 19 USD valve cover gasket 275 USD registration 90 USD aluminum radiator 23 USD 1/4 Cunifer fuel line 14 USD new upper radiator hose 39 USD electric wiper motor 9 USD 5/16 trans cooler fittings 12 USD steel trans cooler line Getting there https://youtu.be/VmauNogMadA | ||
| Omar M. Shams Grand Master Username: omar Post Number: 2048 Registered: 04-2009 |
seems to be running like a dream Ross. well done!! Liked the Mini in the background too. | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1441 Registered: 11-2015 |
Omar, I always love inline 6 motors, buttery smooth. I just cleaned the points and cap when I started it, a set of new points and some plugs should make it run even better. I wasn't sure about replacing the gas line, but after what came out of the old one, I felt better about the work. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xg_bduhIhxA | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1443 Registered: 11-2015 |
I thought I'd post this pic for Graham in the main thread. Truly hard to beat an I6 for ease of access to the plugs. The #2 plug next to the coil is the worst which means that you have to box end of the wrench/spanner and not the open end.  | ||
| David Gore Moderator Username: david_gore Post Number: 3735 Registered: 04-2003 |
Ross, I use a spark plug socket which has a longer body than a standard socket with either a standard extension, a "wobble" extension or universal joint with the standard extension for "hard to access" plugs. I never had a problem removing and replacing spark plugs on DRH14434 with these tools. I did use a length of rubber hose to hold and locate the B3 plug under the brake fluid reservoir when replacing this plug before using the universal joint to keep the plug socket properly aligned during installation. https://www.repco.com.au/en/tools-equipment/hand-tools/-5-10-tools/gv-tools-spark-plug-socket-set-3pc/p/A9395580?_br_psugg_q=spark+plug+socket | ||
| Omar M. Shams Grand Master Username: omar Post Number: 2051 Registered: 04-2009 |
Dear David, The link does not work. Thanks Omar | ||
| David Gore Moderator Username: david_gore Post Number: 3737 Registered: 04-2003 |
Hi Omar, The Repco website must be geographically restricted to Australia and New Zealand. Here is a picture of a complete 3/8in drive spark plug socket set [16mm, 19mm and 21mm plugs]. The cost is AUD10 - my set is an Australian-made Sidchrome Chromium Vanadium steel product; very expensive at the time and will last forever but unfortunately no longer available having been killed by the cheap Asian/Indian products.  . | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1447 Registered: 11-2015 |
Update, I wrapped the steering wheel because the plastic was cracking. This is the free traditional solution to a steering wheel cover.  I brushed on some tinted clear coat to everything.  | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1448 Registered: 11-2015 |
Updated list 1. Seat belts 2. Buy wiper arms 3. Rust hole patches 4. Side mirrors 5. DOT (MOT) 6. Interior cleanup 7. anti sway bar bushings 8. Radio | ||
| Patrick Lockyer. Grand Master Username: pat_lockyer Post Number: 2347 Registered: 09-2004 |
Wow Ross the jobs are all coming together looking good. The steering wheel is something similar to my Jupiter that was October 1951 - on show at the Paris Salon in October 1951!  | ||
| Patrick Ryan Grand Master Username: patrick_r Post Number: 2281 Registered: 04-2016 |
Huge update Ross. Love the clear oat. Nice work mate. | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1449 Registered: 11-2015 |
Patrick L, Jupiter used thinner cord which I think looks nicer and would slide through the hands easier. They must have used a tobe of cord with that diameter. Even with the thick stuff I used it still consumed a surprising amount of cord. Patrick R, I've been one the road a lot recently so progress has been slower than I like | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1451 Registered: 11-2015 |
 I didn't,have the original knob for the shifter so carved a duplicate. | ||
| Patrick Ryan Grand Master Username: patrick_r Post Number: 2282 Registered: 04-2016 |
Nice work Ross. Are you sure the knob is an exact replica (zoom in people)  | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1460 Registered: 11-2015 |
I got this y-block 292 v-8 and BW R-11 overdrive recently. The edsel has a working driveline, but it was a price I couldn't refuse. And came with the column shift parts and clutch pedal as well.   | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1461 Registered: 11-2015 |
The bad news, I can't just use the BW overdrive with the 6 in the car as is. The 233 6 had a different bolt pattern and flywheel from y-block v8. Frown emoji. | ||
| Alan Dibley Frequent User Username: alsdibley Post Number: 248 Registered: 10-2009 |
And you're going to need another wire brush. Alan D. | ||
| Graham Phillips Frequent User Username: playtime Post Number: 302 Registered: 03-2019 |
G'day everyone,.... Have you seen the u-tube vids on how to repair cracked steering wheels? Easy,... I'm gonna do my Inter D1310's steering wheel. Make it look like new again. Graham. | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1467 Registered: 11-2015 |
Video of the Edsel driving. The sound on the video is worse than in person, but not much. | ||
| David Gore Moderator Username: david_gore Post Number: 3779 Registered: 04-2003 |
Congratulations Ross, The sound is OK in my opinion for a car that hasn't been driven for many years - having to use a choke for starting brings back memories of my driving in the early 1960's. Is the Edsel a manual or the original Fordomatic 2-speed torque convertor transmission? I couldn't work this out from the video. I assumed from your earlier interior photos it was a "3 on the tree" manual. | ||
| Larry Kavanagh Frequent User Username: shadow_11 Post Number: 661 Registered: 05-2016 |
Great progress Ross, I think most of the strange noises are from creaking suspension shocks or bushes but it's hard to tell with a video recording. There is something appealing about that car. | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1468 Registered: 11-2015 |
David, Ford-o-matic two speed. Larry, There's some dry bushes to be sure. They are intact so they stay for now. | ||
| Larry Kavanagh Frequent User Username: shadow_11 Post Number: 662 Registered: 05-2016 |
the creaking bushes add to the character. | ||
| Omar M. Shams Grand Master Username: omar Post Number: 2071 Registered: 04-2009 |
great video Ross | ||
| David Gore Moderator Username: david_gore Post Number: 3782 Registered: 04-2003 |
Ross, Now you are taking me down memory lane, my first car was my parent's 1962 Ford Falcon Fordomatic with the 2 speed transmission; much to my chagrin, my father replaced this car with a 1969 Ford Falcon 302CID V8 with the US Cruisomatic auto transmission however wheels are wheels prevailed. I got one back when I started full-time work after graduating from university and traded it in on a new Falcon XY GSpack 351CID V8 4speed manual LSD and sports suspension. I kept this for 8 years and 290,000miles before having to take a Company 6cylinder Ford Cortina automatic which was a nose-heavy dog to drive. Talk about going from the sublime to the ridiculous then followed by a Company 4 cylinder manual Holden[GM] Commodore derived from a GM Opel from Germany. This was the really low point of my driving career...... My days of driving joy have since been restricted to a range of "practical" vehicles until my father-in-law's Corniche arrived and left 10 years after a marriage breakdown. My current vehicles are a Mazda CX5 SUV diesel and a well-worn 1993 Toyota 4Runner manual diesel wagon I use as a work vehicle for my property maintenance; this vehicle is ideal for this purpose and is about to roll-over 600,000kilometres [375,000miles]. . | ||
| Patrick Ryan Grand Master Username: patrick_r Post Number: 2285 Registered: 04-2016 |
Great video Ross. I can’t wait to see the addition of your custom roof rack, and custom cup holders. Ross, Thank you for your kind PM for me to send my old leather key case to you, however I will be putting the old Holden up for sale as soon as I’ve finished working on her. Maybe the next old car key case I can take you up on your generous offer. | ||
| Randy Roberson Frequent User Username: wascator Post Number: 838 Registered: 05-2009 |
I see nothing wrong with the Edsel that wasn’t typical of American cars of the era. It’s a shame though that Edsel Ford is almost unknown by people yet this business flop is what comes to mind when his name is heard. He was a high-class fellow and accomplished car guy in his own right but died too young. | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1499 Registered: 11-2015 |
The Edsel getting new plugs with is a 5 min operation.  The plugs were black when I got it, but I've driven it enough that it really shouldn't look like that. I put the carb together from parts so it's not exactly spec. On the plus side the plugs are dry.  The distributor cap had two of the terminals totally corroded. It ran surprisingly well considering.  | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1508 Registered: 11-2015 |
I found the car's official key fob in the trunk.  I found a pallet to disassemble to make roof rack slats.  I decided to just bolt the whole thing on as is.  | ||
| Larry Kavanagh Frequent User Username: shadow_11 Post Number: 680 Registered: 05-2016 |
I like the key fob Ross, it adds to the story of the Edsel's resurrection. Plugs are black but not sooty, maybe just the air filter needs replacement. | ||
| David Gore Moderator Username: david_gore Post Number: 3820 Registered: 04-2003 |
I just hope it wasn't left behind after a previous owner's last drive.................. | ||
| Alan Dibley Frequent User Username: alsdibley Post Number: 271 Registered: 10-2009 |
I love the roof-rack. That's got STYLE and CLASS. Alan D. | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1512 Registered: 11-2015 |
Alan, I'm not sure where you are looking there. Larry and David, I don't know much about complementary funeral key fobs but I would think it was someone known by the owner. Either way, it was in the car so that has to be the keychain. I'm not really a fan of that keychain, but rules are rules. | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1514 Registered: 11-2015 |
You guys might have noticed that I have been building the Edsel out of whatever. It's kind of hte philosophy of this project. The philosophy is basiclly wait around ask your friends and hope something shows up. I have been waiting on seat belts and finally got some in the form of a 1996 mercury sable. The car is a disposable rental fleet kind of vehicle so I don't feel bad about taking it for it's seat belts. Also, It's nice to have a lateish model car around to act as a fastener store. Need a battery cable, fuse, relay, etc ... just grab it from the Sable. | ||
| Patrick Lockyer. Grand Master Username: pat_lockyer Post Number: 2390 Registered: 09-2004 |
Ross the more I see the car the more I admire the body design, it seems to grow on you. love the rap around windscreen. The V8 would be a mod with the manual box maybe? First USA car I had was a Ford Sun-liner convertible from memory had a 6volt battery that would be almost flat is the roof was operated without the engine running. Had many USA cars bought and sold over the years, most reliable with softish suspension. Corvette L82 was most fun with high speed cornering. Last USA gas car I owned was the Buick Le Sabre. Now the USA Tesla is the one ahead of the field IMO. BTW no servicing is required with the S only a brake fluid change maybe after 3 years. However the brakes are hardly used with regen braking most of the time. | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1515 Registered: 11-2015 |
The center trim for the steering wheel was missing so I 3D printed one at work.  | ||
| Geoff Wootton Grand Master Username: dounraey Post Number: 2233 Registered: 05-2012 |
Ross - are you telling us you have access to a high quality 3D printer | ||
| Omar M. Shams Grand Master Username: omar Post Number: 2099 Registered: 04-2009 |
good job Ross | ||
| David Gore Moderator Username: david_gore Post Number: 3828 Registered: 04-2003 |
Ross, Do enough "foreign order" 3D printing and it will not be long before you will be able to buy one for yourself . Interestingly, one of my other interests is model trains and I recently read about a US enthusiast who 3D-printed a model replica of a Union Pacific "Big Boy" 4-8-8-4 steam locomotive: https://3dinsider.com/print-your-own-scale-model-4-8-8-4-big-boy-locomotive/ Also a lot of information in a post in the Facebook UP Steam Club Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/UPSteamClub/permalink/1791470277666944 | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1516 Registered: 11-2015 |
Geoff, I do have access to high quality printers, but this was printed on a low quality one. (.3mm layer) Even the file I made was terrible. The resolution on the torus' used for the rings around the "E" was 30 segments or something. I recently scanned the SOE which worked but was pretty low res. I think the problem was the reflective surface. I'll spray paint it before scanning it again. | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1517 Registered: 11-2015 |
I had to pull the radio because it was a broken glass valve type unit. Where the buttons were is just a hole in the dash. I could print up a prosthetic set of buttons to fill the hole. Hmmm ... Calipers will be coming out tomorrow. | ||
| Geoff Wootton Grand Master Username: dounraey Post Number: 2234 Registered: 05-2012 |
Ross It looks great despite the low-res. I'm following 3D printer technology - could be great for us classic car people, particularly metal printers, once the prices drop. | ||
| David Gore Moderator Username: david_gore Post Number: 3830 Registered: 04-2003 |
Ross - can you pick up a suitable old push button transistor rather than a valve/hybrid valve&transistor radio from a radio enthusiast or specialist supplier? From memory, all-transistor push button radios appeared in the early 1960's and are occasionally advertised on Ebay, Etsy and elsewhere at high prices due to demand from restorers: https://www.ebay.com/p/2123378410 Alternatively, there are a lot of classic radio repairers who can fix/upgrade your original radio and you will probably find one not far from you. Just search for a club for old radio enthusiasts and there is almost certain to be a repairer or two in their membership. . | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1518 Registered: 11-2015 |
David, That link looks exactly like what I took out but $225 is a bit strong. Might have a go at fixing it myself when I have a chance. | ||
| David Gore Moderator Username: david_gore Post Number: 3831 Registered: 04-2003 |
Ross, Note it is a valve/transistor hybrid which is the worst combination possible as the valves require the radio to have a vibrator transformer needed to produce the AC voltage for the valves. These transformers are a constant source of problems over time. Also the early "push button" mechanisms can also create headaches due to inherent reliability problems in whatever mechanism was used. I would be either looking for a full transistor radio or having the original "gutted" and fitted with a later all-transistor circuit board. Also the speakers will have cones in poor condition and these cones will require replacement to get acceptable sound. Check for a local vintage radio group, they will be both a fantastic source of parts and assistance in organising repairs. | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1519 Registered: 11-2015 |
David, Ever see this | ||
| David Gore Moderator Username: david_gore Post Number: 3837 Registered: 04-2003 |
Ross, You have just revived my long-dormant wish for a train set that can be used by my grandchildren when they visit. My HO gauge conventional models are too valuable to let the grandkids loose with them. Now to find out if this Lego system is still available for purchase........ | ||
| Patrick Ryan Grand Master Username: patrick_r Post Number: 2291 Registered: 04-2016 |
That’s very weird but very cool at the same time Ross. | ||
| ross kowalski Prolific User Username: cdfpw Post Number: 1531 Registered: 11-2015 |
Edsel on hold, Being that there is a pandemic on we decided to buy a new house. Problem is the house isn't exactly new per se. Because of the age of the house there is more than the usual "moving in" routine. The things to do list has things like... - raise central support beam and install lally column, - refinish all floors - plumb and wire for washer and dryer - put in septic system - cut down trees near house - install heat pump water heater - etc. Might be a while before getting back to the cars. So cars have taken a back burner for a while. | ||
| Patrick Ryan Grand Master Username: patrick_r Post Number: 2306 Registered: 04-2016 |
So that list should take a man of your talents up to lunch time Ross. What do yo have planned for the afternoon. | ||
| Omar M. Shams Grand Master Username: omar Post Number: 2118 Registered: 04-2009 |
good luck with all of that Ross. | ||
| Geoff Wootton Grand Master Username: dounraey Post Number: 2248 Registered: 05-2012 |
Hope you are going to wait a couple of weeks - the arctic front is reaching us here in Oklahoma (23F today) so it must be really cold in MA. |
