Re: Randy Berger's 1956 Caribbean

Posted by Randy Berger On 2008/2/2 2:13:06

I had to order a new piston for the Ultramatic rear brake and wonder of wonders Max had the rivet that connects the manual valve to the control link. My friend Ron may go back into repairing Ultramatics if he can rig up a test stand to verify pressures and shifting points. He rebuilt mine in '91 and I've put many miles on it since. I am buying relined bands and clutch and kit from Peter Fitch who says he is retiring.
It sounds like the engine will be done next week and I can drive to NJ and pick it up. Once I get it back here I can schedule my eye surgery as I am not allowed to lift or strain in any way for a good while after the surgery.
I picked up some good chassis black paint from friend Mike D. It is SEM 39144 and has been on the inner fenders etc. of his Camaro for 20+ years. I need to paint the air cleaner and core support. Also the heater box.
Keith, The friend who is ramrodding the engine rebuild in NJ bought the hardened valve spring seats for me - I don't know where, but probably Kanter. Two days ago while looking for some other parts I found eight 1955 spring seats and eight 1956 hardened seats. They both have neoprene molded on the tips that slide over the valve stem. I keep finding parts I had stashed away years ago It almost seems like Christmas again.