Hello all, I just purchased this beauty in running condition! The PO passed away, and I bought it from her children. I'm told the engine may have been replaced, but it does have the oil filler spout in front as I've read is indicative of an Oldsmobile. It runs strong, although there are many problems overall, i.e. the brakes are completely gone (I had to refill the reservoir multiple times to make it home). It's been doctored along all these years, and only sat for 2 years before I got it started, but there are many shade tree modifications. One serious mod is that an R-134 AC was added in '05, according to the sticker with the charge info, etc. Another is that the heater hose valve has been bypassed, and a manual 3-way valve installed. There are many other quirks I'm finding as I dig through it, but I just wanted to introduce myself and hopefully find out if the engine is original or not. Any info and/or advice is gratefully accepted!

 

Welcome, post some pictures when you get a chance.

 

Welcome from another 71 cutlass convertible owner. Need some pictures.

 

Welcome.

 

 

Also, thanks to some digging, I have the original engine!
Does anyone have some advice on brake replacement? The 4 drum setup doesn't inspire me, but I think I read somewhere that the swap to disc spindles necessitates a different front wheel for clearance...
Either way, the brakes are my priority.
edit- Oops, just read the rules for the introduction threads! I'll read through the great info on this forum and try not to ask any more technical questions in this thread...

 

What part of Texas are you?

 

I'm actually in Atlanta. It was a long drive from Austin with crappy brakes!

 

OEM front disc brakes could be had with 14" super stock wheels but I think they had to be the correct inside-clearanced rims to clear the discs - i.e. I think there were SS wheels made for disc brakes as well as those that weren't which otherwise fit the drums (others here will likely reaffirm if this is correct). So if I'm correct you'd have to change the wheels for disc brakes - at which point you'd likely want to go up at least one wheel size overall no matter what - meaning at least to a 15" wheel which would clear most front disc setups, OEM or aftermarket retrofit. A 15x7 or 15x8 wheel with the correct backspacing would fit on all 4 corners with no clearance issues and give also you ability to run wider tires - i.e. 245-50 up front and at least a 255 series out back.

I run 245-50-17 on 17x8 rims (4.5" backspace) all around on my '72 and they are essentially the same height as a 245-50-15 tire without looking too thin in the sidewall. They easily clear the front disc brakes I converted to from its original drums.

 

Welcome to the forum and congratulation on your purchase. Looks like a pretty nice solid car. Most guys aren't fans of the 4 wheel drum set-up but keep in mind, when in proper working condition, they get the job done. Sounds like you have a lot to go through on the car. If it were me, I'd replace what needed fixing to get the drum set-up operational while you're sorting out and enjoying the car. There'll be time for a disc conversion in the future.
Also, if you do end up converting to discs, stick to the front only. Putting disc brakes on the rear of one of these cars is a complete waste of money.

 

@ 70s Geek -I saw some aftermarket 15" SS1s online and they do look sharp...

 

acavagnaro- I think you're advice is spot-on. It's a solid runner in it's current form, so I'm definitely going the drum fix for now. I'm thinking these kinds of toys are always a work in progress anyway!

 

Welcome! Make it safe and drivable. Take your time, enjoy the ride.

 

Nice acquisition!

A properly rebuilt and adjusted 4 wheel drum system will work fine...if properly rebuilt. Put your money elsewhere unless you plan on installing medium to high end upgraded USA made brake and chassis components. Not a whole lot of a difference with factory front discs.I know this first hand.

For sure the most important steps are to get it safe.
Tires new?

Attached is a general recommendation for all new owners of old cars...

 

Welcome aboard! Congrats on your find! She looks great!

 

Nice car. Welcome to the site!