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So I'm in the process of buying this 1967 Oldsmobile Toronado. It's my first foray into classic cars and I'm very excited about it. It's been stored for the last 5 years and off the road even longer, but all there (minus a few emblems). Really, does anybody have any tips about working on one and what to look out for and be wary of? My friends have classics and are willing to help, and I have a good basis for mechanical knowledge
Given your location, look close at the rear vent drain tubes in the trunk. If they're missing or damaged, look close at trunk floor for rust. If you find any, inspect the rear leaf spring mounts for rust. That repair can get involved and expensive real quick.
Some of the chrome potmetal is scarce and difficult to replate.
Timing chain or oil pan work requires engine removal.
Look close at the drive axles and CV joint boots.
www.fusick.com supplies what few reproduction parts are available.
Last edited by rocketraider; Sep 20, 2021 at 10:30 AM.
Another point to be aware of: not much is made for these cars. Especially concerning the interior. While you can buy almost a complete interior out of a catalog for a cutlass or 442, replacing anything more than the carpet or headliner will take an experienced upholstery shop or specialist shop like SMS. If you are looking for a cool patina driver and the car is solid, it looks like a nice start. if you are looking to do a higher end car with nice interior, paint, and chrome it will get expensive really fast. Another common rust spot to look at on these is at the bottom of the A-pillar beside the windshield.
Mechanically, (engine) wise you have no real issues with parts but beware the CV joints may be hard to find. The rubber boots crack and water and dirt get inside destroying the joint. I bet they are expensive too if available. Trim parts are not easy to find and any interior parts would need to be sourced used or reproduced. My suggestion would be to find a nice example instead of this one unless you love a challenge like I do. Good Luck.
Early 1967s were four (4) Wheel Drum Brake Cars --- While their parts can be difficult to find, I have Quality parts, where possibly there is Only Chineseum world or worse........
Later 1967s were Front Disc Brake / Rear Brake Drum --- and those Front Brake Rotors are absolutely UNOBTANIUM.....,
If you have that Toronado, *** DO NOT DARE *** buy Chineseum Disc Brake Pads --- you will rip up those ROTORS to smithereens....... I have *** N.O.S. *** Asbestos *** Brake Pads --- and I have enough of them, where they are not that expensive, presently.....,
Enjoy your New Toy !!!! Yours,, Craig 516 - 485 - 1935... New York....
If you are looking for a cool patina driver and the car is solid, it looks like a nice start. if you are looking to do a higher end car with nice interior, paint, and chrome it will get expensive really fast.
Yeah, just mostly looking for something unique to drive when it's not snowing. I know it'll never be high quality, but eventually I'd want to repaint it and get the seats fixed. The seats have rips in the backs, but the bottom material is fine. Plus I love a good challenge. Thanks for the info too!
My suggestion would be to find a nice example instead of this one unless you love a challenge like I do. Good Luck.
I always love a good challenge. Will definitely check those spots out. Right now just looks like the seats and the chrome are going to be the hardest things.. Thank you for the suggestions and info!
Early 1967s were four (4) Wheel Drum Brake Cars --- While their parts can be difficult to find, I have Quality parts, where possibly there is Only Chineseum world or worse........
Thanks! It's definitely a 4 wheel drum car, but the drums and shoes look newer. I'll definitely keep you in mind when it comes time to order replacements
Given your location, look close at the rear vent drain tubes in the trunk. If they're missing or damaged, look close at trunk floor for rust. If you find any, inspect the rear leaf spring mounts for rust. That repair can get involved and expensive real quick.
Some of the chrome potmetal is scarce and difficult to replate.
Timing chain or oil pan work requires engine removal.
Look close at the drive axles and CV joint boots.
www.fusick.com supplies what few reproduction parts are available.
Thank you! I'm definitely going to check that out. My buddy got under it farther than I could and said it looked pretty solid to him, so I'm hoping
Applied GMCMH in Newark, California can supply some drivetrain parts you have trouble finding. Kanter had the front wheel bearings. The transmission uses most of the parts a TH400 has.
Any sheet metal is impossible to find, unless you can source good panels from a car in a junkyard. Vacuum headlight system is finicky, but works fine if maintained. A subscription to wildaboutcars.com is extremely helpful, as you get access to Oldsmobile parts manuals, service manuals, and assembly manuals. gmpartswiki.com works great for finding if a particular part number has been superseded. Just be prepared to do a ton of research on obsolete parts, hunting down part numbers, supersessions, scouring eBay, etc. Fusick Automotive makes some of the hard to find parts, they are a great resource.
Mechanically, (engine) wise you have no real issues with parts but beware the CV joints may be hard to find. The rubber boots crack and water and dirt get inside destroying the joint. I bet they are expensive too if available... Good Luck.
While individual joints are difficult to find, thankfully reman drive axles are readily available, and for less than $100.00!
