Re: New on the site/ might buy a 55

Posted by Craig the Clipper Man On 2017/10/13 14:48:56

I can't say what you can expect when you're restoring a 1955 Clipper, but I can tell you what to expect from a Clipper in good condition.

I bought my 1955 Clipper Custom Constellation in June 2012. since I bought it I have put about 12,000 miles on it. It has a 352 cid V-8 with a Rochester 4-bbl carburetor, and true dual exhaust. It also has Packard's Twin Ultramatic transmission and full torsion-bar suspension with electric self-leveling.

The Clipper is not a muscle car, but it does have plenty of power and handles freeways with no sweat. It has power steering and power brakes, which work pretty well. I do not like the tiny, vacuum operated windshield wipers which speed up when you decelerate and slow down when you accelerate! Outside of switching to an electric system, I just had to get used to them.

The Torsion Level suspension system makes for a very good ride with comfort and good road feel. You have to keep it properly lubricated for it to work well, but that would likely be a given anyway. The self-leveler can be problematic due primarily to its wiring system, but it is fun to see it in operation.

Overall, I am very happy with my Clipper. Since it was restored in the 1980s, I have had to take care of problems that arise as restorations get older. I have rebuilt the transmission and generator, installed a new leveler motor and wiring, replaced the front bushings and motor mounts, serviced the brakes and carburetor, and changed the shocks and tires. Next month I am having the yellow re-sprayed and next year I am going to replace all of the rubber around the inside windows.

This sounds like a lot, but I don't think it is excessive considering the age of the car and its 30-year-old restoration.