My starfire uses a small black plastic vacuum storage tank mounted on the firewall as part of the heater / air conditioning control system. I just tested mine and found that it leaks so I need to replace it. Does anyone know if these are reproduced and if so where they are available? I think similar types of tanks were used on many GM cars in the 60s or 70s, I am more concerned with function than exact matching appearance. Any help will be greatly appreciated.

 

www.autopartslooksandnooks.com has several styles listed for '63 Buicks and some look very similar. Larry

 

Your vacuum canister looks like a newer one that GM started to use around 1968 or 1969. I believe the older ones looked like metal cans.


Randy C.

 

I corrected the www. address on above post because it was probably impossible for you to find with the incomplete address.Just google vacuum canister for '63 Buick and the above address will be listed down a few spaces from the top. Sorry, Larry

 

I have many of those vacuum bulbs. $18.00 shipped for a good one?
Scott

 

Thanks for the response. This type of canister is original for 63, I've also seen them on Buicks. Looking closer yesterday I actually have TWO of these on the firewall, the second one is hiding next to the AC box. I'm going to remove that one also and test it, hopefully they don't both leak. Before I replace I'm going to clean and examine the leaker for cracks, then try sealing the center seam with RTV and see if I can fix it. I'll let you know what happens.

 

If you have 2 of them, then I'd bet your car has AC & vacuum power trunk. Good luck with them but we'll be here if you need one.

 

There may be variation in usage (prhaps by plant?); my '65 Starfire had a metal vacuum canister, which actually "popped" in and out (like it was breathing) as vacuum pressure accumulated and decreased within; i replaced it with the plastic style.

 

I pulled off both plastic tanks, cleaned them up and checked for cracks with a magnifying glass. I couldn't find anything obvious, but the two halves of each tank are joined at a center seam either by heat or some type of glue. I wound up sealing this joint all the way around with Ultra Black RTV and it has greatly improved the vacuum holding of both tanks.

 

Don, it looks just like the one I took off my 67 442. If any of yours do not work out, it's sitting here if you want it. We could meetup and have lunch.