Hello everyone I'm new to this site, and this is my first Oldsmobile project. I am a novice when it comes to restoring car but its some thing I've wanted to do for long time. So hear I go, I have a 1956 88 olds (base model) and I can't find parts for it, things like molding, fuel tank, steering wheel, and air cleaner. I have been looking for about two week now, its starting to give me headaches.
This year make and model seems to be a rare one. Also I would like to know what size motor I have? I do know it's a V8 and believe its a 324 rocket.

If any one can help me with these few questions it would be awesome.

thanks
Tony

 

First off welcome to Classic olds, and good choice on your first olds. Your best source for parts will probably be ebay and adhuntr which is a craigslist based page that searches nation wide.(http://www.adhuntr.com/) There is also your catalogs like
Fusick http://www.fusick.com/
and
USA Parts Supply http://www.usapartssupply.com/olds.php
good luck with the build
Erit

 

BTW, go down to the vintage olds section there's a few of us 56 owners on here

 

If it's the original motor, you are correct. The only engine available on any '56 Olds was the 324 V-8. On the base 88, the base engine put out 230 hp with a 240 hp version optional. On the Super 88 and 98, the 240 hp version was standard and the only engine available.

You don't say what body style yours is, but the base 88 came in four styles, 2- and 4-door Sedans and 2- and 4-door hardtops, called "Holiday Coupe" and "Holiday Sedan." If you wanted a convertible, you had to move up to the Super 88 or 98 lines.

 

I have some bodyside stainless for '56, various pieces. Post a picture or what model of '56. Also looking for 4 door holiday 88 trim.

 

Good luck with the restoration. Fusick is one of the best sources. Some of the 56 owners on this site also have parts. Make a list and put it in the parts wanted section

 

Welcome to the site. A '56 Olds was my first car. Good luck with your project.
Just hang in there, it will take research, but others here might have a few things for you also.
Looks like your not to far from me. Good luck.
Pic's are always welcome

Gene