Re: John’s ‘53 Caribbean

Posted by John On 2024/9/9 15:50:55

It has been a while ,so thought I would post an update. Master cylinder in bleeding required. Interior is in except for front carpet. Top and windows operational. Recored radiator. Ran engine with no plugs to clear some oil. While doing so I used thumb to alternately generate suction and pressure. A couple stubborn exhaust valves came to life. Got engine to fire off with a boat tank and bulb. Now for fuel pump and carb kit. After 41 years of not starting, with a splash of gas down the throat, it fired right off. Died and second start it actually idled while keeping the bulb pump going. Smoked like crazy from all the oil, but that cleared quickly. This car runs smoother than my 48 with 356. Hope to drive before snow fall.

I did as Ross suggested, started with rear end up in the air. Trans was 2.5 quarts low. No leaks but not much running time. Put into gear and alternately ran left or right wheel. A little noise from diff, maybe low on oil or maybe just being totally unloaded. I had soaked all linkage with oil as it was really tough to move. After running, shifter now very smooth.

I am missing the metal breather cap on trans. Any advice on finding replace?

This car was headed to the junk yard/crusher and now getting a bit exciting.