Re: The 55 Clipper comes out of hibernation

Posted by Tom Still On 2015/4/1 22:54:51

I agree with all of the above; however I left out some history. The car was running well until about 2002 when the clutch got to the point it would roll backwards down a mild grade in low gear. About three years ago, I lifted it off 4 flat tires high enough to pull the trans / OD. While it was up, I also went through the fuel and brake systems. ALL rubber pieces including hoses were replaced and lines were inspected for rust holes. It does not have the DTV (Dreaded Treadle Vac) so I was spared that problem. Fuel tank problems delayed its return to the road. That was resolved about 3 months ago and it became drivable. Since the car was a work in progress, dent removing and parts collecting took precedence over blinkers and brake lights. Update with a bit more history; several years ago, I sold a 55 Clipper needing lots of work to a recent retire who wanted a project. Tragically, he had a fatal heart attack not long after. The new owner called me for history and information and I kept his number. I called him yesterday and he gave me back the original faded lenses it was sold with. One problem solved. Today was clean all Light sockets, connections and switch contacts and replace the brake light switch. All lights and the radio are working. The temp gage was a non issue; There was no thermostat so it never got hot enough to register. Removing the housing also removed the threads from the back hole in the water pump. There is enough clearance under the flange to use a longer bolt with a nut. Tire issue; One of the company Dodge Caravans blew an engine last year and it has been relegated to parts donor. It had just been fitted with 4 new 215 70 R15 tires a couple months earlier. The one I drive has about 50% ware. The new ones go on my car and the others go on the Packard. Tomorrow it gets an oil change, good tires and alignment. As far as reliability, it is neck and neck between the resurrection of the Clipper and the demise of my 90 Ford Ranger. The commute is 12 easy freeway miles and a 3 mile drive to the studio. I don't see a problem for the few weeks it will be needed. The only problem I see is that I can't go 6 blocks before someone flags me down to talk about it.

With fresh tires, it will get a break in run with backup car. I will report, Tom