Re: Should I Make the Trade?

Posted by kevinpackard On 2022/5/10 13:01:50

- Check for original paint (over spray on wires, hood hinges,) what spots should not be painted on car?

Someone with more knowledge can correct me on this, but I believe the areas between the ribs on the underside of the trunk lid were not painted body color. It is sound deadening material. Hood hinges should not be body color, nor the springs on them. No wires should have paint on them.

-Check trim plate in drivers side door
Is there a print out available that I could bring with me to check if the plate shows the paint and trim that the car actually is?


This page will be your best resource: 1955 Model Information. Look at the links at the bottom of the page. The first few pages of the Parts List will have all the paint and interior codes used on these cars. You can then cross reference to the paint chip scan to check the colors. All resources for that car can be found on that page.

- Check the torsion leveling system (Trunk test) In what position does the little switch need to be under the dash for the TL system to be on? will it be obvious if the system is working?


I'm not very familiar with Torsion Level, but I believe you can check it by sitting on the rear bumper and see if the car levels itself out.

- Check parking brake works. If it does not how big of a fix is that?

Depends on what the problem is. If the brakes haven't been gone through recently (with proof), I would count on going through them yourself and making sure it is all done. The parking brake is handled as part of that. It's not that hard. If I can do it, anyone can.

- Check if there is dual exhaust, I didn't notice pipes in exhaust openings in rear bumper. Anything else exhaust wise to check?

See if you can get a view of the mufflers. If they are rotted out you are looking at a new exhaust system.

-Check if has original valve covers

-Magnet test over whole car.

- Electrical. Anything special I should check when it comes to this? Like I said according to him all gauges don't work other than the gas gauge, the speedometer worked but was pretty bouncy.

Most of the electrical stuff can be figured out. Lights will need to be replaced, there are probably some bad grounds, and perhaps some wires will need attention.

- Undercarriage. I will crawl under car with head light where should I focus my attention?

Check behind the rear wheels. This is where rust is most likely to occur. There is not a lot of room under the car to see, so you may not be able to evaluate well unless the car is on stands.