llcooljc

New here. I just inherited a 65 cutlass convertible that spent its entire life in Texas. It has been sitting in a garage for over 23 years unmoved. Almost no rust. The catch?? It was a hurricane Harvey victim. It was under water for about a week. (Rain, not salt). I have torn out the interior and am now getting to the motor. 330 high compression. It definitely will need a rebuild which I plan on undertaking myself. (Other than machining which I am not equipped to do.) anyways, are there any complete rebuild kits available? Or do I have to go piece meal? Any info would be appreciated. Thx John

oldcutlass

Welcome to the site. Nice project, hope you can dry it out and do some rust prevention. Egge machine sells kits. You might consider some mild performance parts instead.

stan 65 cutlass

looks like a solid one, good luck

classicmuscle442

Welcome to C O, very nice looking Cutlass, I could make room for it but I might have to sleep in it. Just a thought, not sure how high water got but may want to drain rear end.

CRUZN 66

Welcome to the group... Looks like a good project... Do you know the actual depth of water it was in???

llcooljc

I’m not sure, but what I do know is, the motor was full of water. The tranny fluid on the other hand looks unaffected.

So im assuming higher than carb...lower than Tran dipstick tube.

lemoldsnut

welcome to the site

Some great folks here with good info.

I have two 65 parts cars if you need some things

supercarsunlimited.com is a great source for mechanical parts.,

Larry

llcooljc

After pulling the oil plug, about 3-4 gallons of water flowed out. Then this...

lemoldsnut

Time to tear it done and inspect.

m371961

Welcome. I would pull plugs, start flooding cylinders with WD or trans fluid and keep turning it by hand, until you pull it. Drain and clean rear. See how much water got where, including wheel bearings. Get it dry asap before rust sets in. At least it is fresh water.
Like asked above, how high did the water get?

OLDSter Ralph

Welcome. Enjoy the project, it will be worth it. Wheel bearings, brake wheel cylinders, rear axle, fuel tank and electrical connectors are also things to check. The people on here are very helpful and knowledgeable. Good luck
RALPH

oldcutlass

Water is heavier than oil so it will be on the bottom. The brown mess is oil mixed with water. You can try doing an oil change and mechanically prime the engine without starting to flush it out. Then drain, add fresh oil, a new filter, and start it. You have nothing to lose.

therobski

X2 OldCutlass good idea,

Gerald Nickels

Me I would of left my driver there and drove the 65 out of harms way. Just me. At least the out side is good.