General Information
Just bought this clean looking 1966 Wildcat. There is however a lot of work to be done, starting with the paint job -- a ugly pewter color over the original silver grey. First I'll need to treat rust spots to prevent further damages to the body (see below).
Next? Add a right windshield wiper (where do I get those?). The trunk door needs to be changed (rust on the lower panel, above the trim, following a parking accident by previous owner). The front bench is falling apart. Interior is original and otherwise well preserved but for missing parts. The AC has been removed, probably to gain some horsepower. Wheels are not original. The electrical system is messed up (either the radio or the road lights works--but not both at the same time ). The air intake screw is too long and caused the hood to start rusting in the middle. Hood insulation must be added. All door joints replaced. Two doors won't open. Exhaust leaks. Etc.
Pretty much my alter ego -- looking good but missing a few bolts under the hood. I'd be done with that car when I retire, in 15 years, if ever. Ahahaha! But it is such a distinctive looking yet classy car.
Looking forward to connecting with other members in the Willamette Valley area in Oregon and to the broader community of Wildcat owners. In the meantime, I'd be thankful for any insights regarding my immediate tasks listed below. If you believe I should immediately focus on something else, please let me know.
First tasks -- damage control:
Cheers,
Charles
Next? Add a right windshield wiper (where do I get those?). The trunk door needs to be changed (rust on the lower panel, above the trim, following a parking accident by previous owner). The front bench is falling apart. Interior is original and otherwise well preserved but for missing parts. The AC has been removed, probably to gain some horsepower. Wheels are not original. The electrical system is messed up (either the radio or the road lights works--but not both at the same time ). The air intake screw is too long and caused the hood to start rusting in the middle. Hood insulation must be added. All door joints replaced. Two doors won't open. Exhaust leaks. Etc.
Pretty much my alter ego -- looking good but missing a few bolts under the hood. I'd be done with that car when I retire, in 15 years, if ever. Ahahaha! But it is such a distinctive looking yet classy car.
Looking forward to connecting with other members in the Willamette Valley area in Oregon and to the broader community of Wildcat owners. In the meantime, I'd be thankful for any insights regarding my immediate tasks listed below. If you believe I should immediately focus on something else, please let me know.
First tasks -- damage control:
- Protect the body from rust where the paint has been chipped. Looking for the cheapest temporary stop-gap solution to buy me time to plan for permanent repair. What would you recommend?
- Get the engine and break inspected / fluids changed -- any recommendation for a knowledgeable shop in the Eugene, OR, area?
- Get a grip on routine maintenance (maintenance schedule, etc.), i.e. find an owner manual. Ebay?
- Add a right windshield wiper -- where do I get those?
Cheers,
Charles