Hello:

Well I have had my 71 Olds Cutlass convertible since 2001 and now that my son is studying to be a mechanic its time to start working on the car. So the question is what to start on first. Should I replace all the suspension parts first before I consider an engine rebuild? When I start on the engine what should I do first?

Thanks for any suggestions you have

 

It is generally best to do everything that needs to be done before dropping in a fresh engine, but of course it's always tempting to want to do the engine first. Doing the engine first is always funner even though it may not be the wise choice to do in many situations.

What to do on your engine first? What are your goals? Are you planning on a full rebuild, a hillbilly re-ring/re-gasket job, or just want to add a little power with some mods?

 

I think it also matters just what is most urgent to fix. If the engine runs and is fairly reliable, but the front end is so bad you can't align it, then that's a no brainer. Are you doing a full restoration or just a general fix up to make a driver out of it?

 

Thanks for the advice I always wanted to start with the suspension. I am just doing a general fix up the car runs fine now. The suspension is most likely original for most of the main parts.

 

Your right about wanting to have more power but right now I have to see what is most important to update. I am thinking suspension at the moment.

 

Suggestion: If the suspension is likely original it's way past due to overhaul. Very likely your bushings are done, and possibly the steering linkages. IMO, it's also a lot easier to do the suspension with the engine in the car.

When you're saying suspension does that mean front and rear, or just front? Both probably need some attention.

 

Except for the upper control (A-Arm) bushings.

 

Naw, they weren't that hard. A block of wood against the block and a good pry? Pop! Pop! there are the 2 shaft bolts. Will agree it's a PITA on the DS. That's why I pulled the steering intermediate shaft and refurbed it at the same time. Oh, since I was doing all this anyway, I pulled the inner liners and had tons of room to work with.