I spotted an (insert obscure car name here) classic car today! (Archived)

sda

A very nice garnet red 95ish Eldorado and a clean black 02ish Lincoln LS w/sunroof. I couldn’t determine if the LS was a V8 as it was in the opposite lane. Both cars appeared to be all stock which is my preference.

fintail

I'll send you a message.

uplanderguy said:

fin, daughter just got a job with the State of Washington. Rent is already scaring me and I haven't even looked (she will be). Seattle. Any good car insurance companies you might recommend? Our insurer doesn't insure there. You can reply here, or IM me. Thanks.

Secondarily, she will be taking my '17 Cruze, turbo. I put 93 in it. Do stations there have 93, or is 91 the highest octane as I know some states are.

tjc78

@sda said:
A very nice garnet red 95ish Eldorado and a clean black 02ish Lincoln LS w/sunroof. I couldn’t determine if the LS was a V8 as it was in the opposite lane. Both cars appeared to be all stock which is my preference.

Probably a V8. That was actually the more reliable engine choice from what I’ve read.

stickguy

A first gen corvair convertible parked next to a house. Did not look like a runner. Or that it moved in years.

And out driving a very clean looking late Volvo 240. 4 door. Last of the real bricks

stickguy

fintail said:

I'll send you a message.

uplanderguy said:

fin, daughter just got a job with the State of Washington. Rent is already scaring me and I haven't even looked (she will be). Seattle. Any good car insurance companies you might recommend? Our insurer doesn't insure there. You can reply here, or IM me. Thanks.

Secondarily, she will be taking my '17 Cruze, turbo. I put 93 in it. Do stations there have 93, or is 91 the highest octane as I know some states are.

Up, you have to be the only person to ever put super premium in a Cruze.

uplanderguy

Far from it. It's a turbo.

Owner's manual says 87 is OK, but early on in the Gen 2's there were reports of cracked pistons due to low-speed pre-ignition. Supposedly several things were done to make the car run on 87 when introduced. Pistons were redesigned on '18's. I'm on Cruze forums and also general car forums, and something I see time and time again from mechanics is, "If it's Turbo, use premium-octane fuel and quality oil. I don't care what make of car it is. Trust me on this. You will avoid LSPI".

So, I have since the car was about a year old. I do find that I get better MPG which offsets the additional cost some. I get 42 or 43 on highway trips, which is exceptional in a car as roomy as that IMHO. It has 81K miles now.

Incidentally, where I live, octanes available at all stations are 87, 89, and 93. I've heard some states max out at 91.

Now, if I can get my daughter to judge distances better, sigh. When she used the car for about six weeks in the spring, it was returned to me with a scuffed-up RF aluminum wheel bad enough to get me to buy a new wheel on eBay. In the six weeks she's had it as her permanent car--she returned to visit us and showed me where she hit the side of the outside of her apartment garage, where she parks next to. $4,900 damage, sigh. Goes in Tuesday. Just something else to muck up getting things for Washington planned.

uplanderguy

Not car-related, but I was in my old, small hometown on July 1 for their annual Heritage Days Super Cruise. The old McMillen's Funeral Home had just been sold a couple days before, and the new owner, from Pittsburgh, was there and let me and a couple friends in. I was never in the house when it was a funeral home (amazingly, there were six funeral homes in town when I was growing up), but had been in it about five years ago. It has changed hands a couple times in five years, but I could see some repair work of ceilings and flooring in places, and some painting had taken place since then.

$210K for this 1881 house. And in 2021 it had sold for $100K.

The 28 pics show some interesting interior photos. I was glad to have been able to see inside.

https://www.redfin.com/PA/Greenville/285-Main-St-16125/home/101270160

sda

uplanderguy said:

Not car-related, but I was in my old, small hometown on July 1 for their annual Heritage Days Super Cruise. The old McMillen's Funeral Home had just been sold a couple days before, and the new owner, from Pittsburgh, was there and let me and a couple friends in. I was never in the house when it was a funeral home (amazingly, there were six funeral homes in town when I was growing up), but had been in it about five years ago. It has changed hands a couple times in five years, but I could see some repair work of ceilings and flooring in places, and some painting had taken place since then.

$210K for this 1881 house. And in 2021 it had sold for $100K.

The 28 pics show some interesting interior photos. I was glad to have been able to see inside.

https://www.redfin.com/PA/Greenville/285-Main-St-16125/home/101270160

So cool. You can almost hear music from the period playing in the background. Beautiful millwork and detailing. A treasure.

fintail

uplanderguy said:

Not car-related, but I was in my old, small hometown on July 1 for their annual Heritage Days Super Cruise. The old McMillen's Funeral Home had just been sold a couple days before, and the new owner, from Pittsburgh, was there and let me and a couple friends in. I was never in the house when it was a funeral home (amazingly, there were six funeral homes in town when I was growing up), but had been in it about five years ago. It has changed hands a couple times in five years, but I could see some repair work of ceilings and flooring in places, and some painting had taken place since then.

$210K for this 1881 house. And in 2021 it had sold for $100K.

The 28 pics show some interesting interior photos. I was glad to have been able to see inside.

https://www.redfin.com/PA/Greenville/285-Main-St-16125/home/101270160

110% chance that place is haunted. Quite the price though, don't see stuff like that on the west coast.

uplanderguy

Funny you say that, fin. That is the rumor. In the early '30's, the original owner's son shot himself on the second floor "while cleaning his gun" and died. He supposedly haunts the place....not to mention that it was a funeral home from probably around 1940 to about 1980. It was a fifth-generation family funeral business, but the last owner was a bachelor and when he got sick, he closed the business. I was told he died in bed on the third floor in the room with all the windows.

I had a teacher or two who lived in upstairs apartments there in the '70's. Those mid-century kitchens are on the second, and third, floors.

Without looking at a pic, the exterior for some reason sort-of reminds me of the Munsters house.

ab348

That place gives me the willies. I wouldn’t be caught dead in there.

uplanderguy

For several years, I have 'set up' during the Super Cruise car show on the porch there, as it's nice and shady and there almost always isn't anybody there, LOL. This year was different.

fintail

I like the old timey kitchen with the 1920s stove and maybe late 30s fridge (both probably still work fine).

explorerx4

3 rounds of stripper wash, bug and tar remover, waterless car wash.
Clay bar after first round of above, didn't seem to do anything, maybe I used the wrong lube.
After round 3, Meguiars cleaner wax followed by Adams Buttery Wax.
The sticker in the lower left front of the windshield is for the passed emissions at 20 years.

kyfdx

Bird’s eye view of a local CnC.

ab348

Most of those look like the kind of cars that are a civic nuisance. The old Studie is nice though.

roadburner

I'll take the ZL1.

xwesx

uplanderguy said:

The 28 pics show some interesting interior photos. I was glad to have been able to see inside.

https://www.redfin.com/PA/Greenville/285-Main-St-16125/home/101270160

Whoa! That staircase is to die for!

I sure hope the new owner cuts that ivy out off the brick. I know it looks pretty on brick buildings like that, but it is devastating to the structure's integrity.

uplanderguy

Not really visible in the pics, but each step on that staircase has a brass-colored thingie holding the carpeting in place on the steps, with frilly brass-colored metal on each end.

uplanderguy

I'd have to take the Stude in that group of cars in the photo. Long-hood/short-deck styling, in 1953.

tjc78

@explorerx4 said:
3 rounds of stripper wash, bug and tar remover, waterless car wash.
Clay bar after first round of above, didn't seem to do anything, maybe I used the wrong lube.
After round 3, Meguiars cleaner wax followed by Adams Buttery Wax.
The sticker in the lower left front of the windshield is for the passed emissions at 20 years.

Looks great! I’ve grown more fond of Fox bodies over the years.

laurasdada

uplanderguy said:

I'd have to take the Stude in that group of cars in the photo. Long-hood/short-deck styling, in 1953.

The Studie caught my eye, too. Lark?

fintail

Of the cars in the foreground, even I might prefer the Stude. I don't vape, so much of the newer stuff is out of scope for me

I think I see a mid 80s Caprice wagon in the background.

stickguy

I would want one of the TR6s out in the road. Or the new red Miata.

andre1969

ab348 said:

Most of those look like the kind of cars that are a civic nuisance. The old Studie is nice though.

In my neighborhood that kind of car show would be accompanied by one of those local news stories that uses the phrase "Shots rang out..."

But yeah, of that batch definitely the Studebaker! Although, I have to admit, I don't mind that aqua-colored thing with the '73 Chevelle taillights towards the center. What is that, a Nissan Skyline?

**Edit: Just wanted to add, thanks to everyone, for the thoughts and well wishes concerning my Mom. She came home from the hospital last Thursday, but mostly because the hospital folks said there was nothing more they could do for her. Although oddly, she seems to be slightly improved in the home atmosphere. Still pretty critical, but slightly more appetite, and strength.

texases

Well, at least there's only one Mustang, so the pedestrians are safe!

stickguy

The lime green car is a skyline.

Andre, enjoy whatever time you have left with your mom. Much nicer that she can be at home for it, instead of in a hospital.

xwesx

My wife has a lifelong friend who is a traveling hospice nurse. She provides end-of-life care for terminal patients in their homes (or similar settings), and she's spoken many times about how much improved their experience is over their last few days/weeks/months. Often times, when they choose to go home, they are told days, but those turn into the latter options before it's all said and done!

fintail

andre1969 said:

ab348 said:

Most of those look like the kind of cars that are a civic nuisance. The old Studie is nice though.

In my neighborhood that kind of car show would be accompanied by one of those local news stories that uses the phrase "Shots rang out..."

But yeah, of that batch definitely the Studebaker! Although, I have to admit, I don't mind that aqua-colored thing with the '73 Chevelle taillights towards the center. What is that, a Nissan Skyline?

**Edit: Just wanted to add, thanks to everyone, for the thoughts and well wishes concerning my Mom. She came home from the hospital last Thursday, but mostly because the hospital folks said there was nothing more they could do for her. Although oddly, she seems to be slightly improved in the home atmosphere. Still pretty critical, but slightly more appetite, and strength.

Yep, Skyline R32, with some thirst trap instagrammy accessories.

I'm glad your mom is able to be at home - it has to be a huge comfort.

roadburner

I could also be talked into the Type R.

uplanderguy

To answer the question if the Stude was a Lark--no, it's a '53 Champion Starlight Coupe.

andre, glad your Mom is at home.

laurasdada

Heading north on Rt. 3, Polestar 1. Cool.

uplanderguy

Last photo of the old funeral home in my hometown, the only pic I took on July 1.

uplanderguy

My brother-in-law and sister have decided to downsize from their 50 acre property with outbuildings. It's near Greenville, PA, my old hometown. They are selling their fully restored, two-tone green '27 Studebaker Dictator, '56 Studebaker Sky Hawk (big restoration project or parts), '49 Studebaker Champion convertible parts car, and a 1919 Model T, fully restored and driveable.

Auction link here:

https://cresswellauction.com/sat-aug-5th-19th-moving-auction/

stickguy

I assume getting very little for any of those based on lack of buyer interest.

stickguy

Looked at the listing. Man those garages are nice. Would solve my problems! But Yowzers they certainly have a lot of stuff collected. Good luck with the auction but definitely the way to go for a place like that.

explorerx4

It looks like the John Deere mower could do my whole tree lawn in one pass!

uplanderguy

It's a really nice place to live, 50 acres, completely quiet. In fact, their neighbors are Amish!

The big garage was added about 15 years ago. You can drive around back and drive straight into the second story.

He's lived there since 1968. We don't plan on going over for either of the two auction days, as it seems like it'd be just us being nosy, and I'm sure it'll be a stressful and emotional couple days. He and my sister have been married for 15 years but both are older.

fintail

On a road trip visiting family, drove this Panther a bit yesterday:



Car belonged to the late mother of my cousin's husband (they are maybe 20 years older than me, some age gaps in the family), then apparently sat in a field for 7 or 8 years. The family was going to give it away, but my cousin's husband wanted to save it. 2001 model, just over 100K miles. Needs a heavy detail and front brake rotors, but runs and drives amazingly well for what it is - frigid AC and cruise works, I drove it for maybe 40 miles around the area. Interior is super clean and the paint/chrome should be able to be revived. Period correct aftermarket wheels are a funny touch.

They also have this in the garage - my cousin loves it, but her husband calls it the "tin can" (but to be fair, these are all about the sound, and the car hasn't given them any trouble):



The house is also kind of an obscure thing, a semi time capsule 1947 build with many odd details - elevator, laundry chute, lots of little alcoves, plentiful tile and glass block, lots of gumwood or maple trim etc.

tjc78

2001 … one of the last before the change to rack and pinion steering in 03. It still should have some of the old school Panther feel.

Was it riding on the air springs (you’d hear the compressor kick on after you start it)? Looks to be sitting fairly level so must be unless it was converted to springs.

fintail

Was it like a recirculating ball type before? Maybe that's why I soon felt comfortable driving it, like an old MB.

I don't recall the compressor noise, but I started the car and let it warm up/cool down inside before driving it, and wasn't sitting in the car. However, my cousin's husband mentioned he is replacing rear suspension parts, and there were a couple of new in box what I assume air suspension pieces in the trunk.

In mixed city and semi-rural arterial driving it delivered around 22 mpg as well.

tjc78 said:

2001 … one of the last before the change to rack and pinion steering in 03. It still should have some of the old school Panther feel.

Was it riding on the air springs (you’d hear the compressor kick on after you start it)? Looks to be sitting fairly level so must be unless it was converted to springs.

fintail

Come to think of it, this is the same cousin who had this Falcon I showed off a few years ago:



They recently sold it to a local Falcon fan who had been asking about the car - it will be put back on the road.

tjc78

@fintail said:
Was it like a recirculating ball type before? Maybe that's why I soon felt comfortable driving it, like an old MB.

I don't recall the compressor noise, but I started the car and let it warm up/cool down inside before driving it, and wasn't sitting in the car. However, my cousin's husband mentioned he is replacing rear suspension parts, and there were a couple of new in box what I assume air suspension pieces in the trunk.

In mixed city and semi-rural arterial driving it delivered around 22 mpg as well.

Yep… recirculating ball. Only thing it had different from the box Panthers was a speed sensor to decrease assist at Highway speeds

fintail

tjc78 said:

@fintail said:

Was it like a recirculating ball type before? Maybe that's why I soon felt comfortable driving it, like an old MB.

I don't recall the compressor noise, but I started the car and let it warm up/cool down inside before driving it, and wasn't sitting in the car. However, my cousin's husband mentioned he is replacing rear suspension parts, and there were a couple of new in box what I assume air suspension pieces in the trunk.

In mixed city and semi-rural arterial driving it delivered around 22 mpg as well.

Yep… recirculating ball. Only thing it had different from the box Panthers was a speed sensor to decrease assist at Highway speeds

I notice it isn't fingertip light like on a 60s Ford - it has some resistance, but none of the feel of a pseudo-sport modern car. I drove it again a bit today, didn't hear suspension working, but it seems to ride fine with a passenger. I think it is a relatively basic or middle spec - no moonroof, no digital dash.

fintail

Went through some old photos and found this - this was my grandma's car until the time I was a little kid, I have a vague memory of it. I think she had it into the early 80s, and loved it. Moved on to a string of Cavaliers from then, loved those too, so she had realistic expectations I guess. Pic is from the time of the St. Helens eruption:

tjc78

@fintail said:
I notice it isn't fingertip light like on a 60s Ford - it has some resistance, but none of the feel of a pseudo-sport modern car. I drove it again a bit today, didn't hear suspension working, but it seems to ride fine with a passenger. I think it is a relatively basic or middle spec - no moonroof, no digital dash.

Probably an Executive series. No digital dash past 97 unfortunately.

uplanderguy

RE.: Mt. St. Helens eruption--that was the day I graduated college, May 18, 1980. Also my parents' 30th wedding anniversary.

andre1969

fintail said:

Come to think of it, this is the same cousin who had this Falcon I showed off a few years ago:



They recently sold it to a local Falcon fan who had been asking about the car - it will be put back on the road.

Wow, I guess my childhood fascination with motorhomes never really went away. First thing I noticed was that Revcon in the background! Apparently the older ones were FWD, using Toronado mechanicals, and supposedly served as the inspiration for GMC's own motorhomes. I dunno if the 80's models were still FWD though. I have a feeling they weren't. Unless, by some freak of nature, there was still a source of pre-downsized Toronado drivetrains available!

fintail

andre1969 said:

fintail said:

Come to think of it, this is the same cousin who had this Falcon I showed off a few years ago:



They recently sold it to a local Falcon fan who had been asking about the car - it will be put back on the road.

Wow, I guess my childhood fascination with motorhomes never really went away. First thing I noticed was that Revcon in the background! Apparently the older ones were FWD, using Toronado mechanicals, and supposedly served as the inspiration for GMC's own motorhomes. I dunno if the 80's models were still FWD though. I have a feeling they weren't. Unless, by some freak of nature, there was still a source of pre-downsized Toronado drivetrains available!

I've had a similar interest now and then too. I always liked the GMC motorhomes, and some of the more oddball things caught my attention, maybe even linking up to a slight interest I had in manufactured or prefab housing I had when I was a kid, it always fascinated me. The angular 70s Winnebagos have an aesthetic, and fun 80s motorhomes like a Vixen or LeSharo are interesting too. I think that Revcon might be gone now.

I am in a small town right now, and saw a very clean if not maybe even somewhat restored malaise era motorhome yesterday - a harvest gold, orange and brown color combo IIRC, but can't remember the name! I will have to think about it. Also saw a 75-76 Fleetwood.

fintail

Not my video - the big National Buick show was recently near where I live, but I am 400+ miles away right now:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R6DyknsjECU