A classic car can be a treasure trove of memories, but it can also be a financial black hole.* David Long, the Car Wizard, discovered this firsthand when he purchased a 1963 Cadillac Coupe deVille. Despite its impeccable exterior, the vintage coupe hid costly mechanical issues beneath its shiny surface.
The owner initially believed that the car’s age would require minimal investment. However, even minor problems can quickly escalate into expensive repairs. For example, a seemingly simple issue with the turn indicators led to a more complex problem with the steering wheel mechanism. Additionally, the air conditioning system, despite its continued functionality, had a faulty component that needed to be replaced at a significant cost.
David Long’s 1963 Cadillac Coupe deVille is undergoing a comprehensive restoration. The car’s cooling system has been upgraded with a new AC compressor, but the vehicle’s shaky ride has necessitated further repairs. A new compressor, requiring an adapter plate to accommodate the original mounting, will be installed. Additionally, the old hoses, alternator, and heater core will be replaced.
Considering the original Carter two-barrel carburetor, Long is exploring a Holley’s Sniper system for a fuel-injected upgrade. However, the iconic 390-cubic-inch V8 engine will remain untouched. Long is actively seeking solutions to improve the car’s cooling system. The Coupe deVille’s original paint, despite its age, remains intact. Although the paint is showing signs of wear, viewers recommended repairing the hood and preserving the original paint elsewhere.
o further enhance the restoration, Long is considering additional upgrades. These may include a new exhaust system, suspension components, or interior trim. The goal is to restore the Coupe deVille to its original glory while also incorporating modern improvements for a more enjoyable driving experience. With careful attention to detail and a commitment to preserving the car’s heritage, Long hopes to create a truly exceptional vehicle.
The satisfying click of the door closing was a symphony to David Long’s ears. “It sounds like a bank vault shutting,” he mused, a smile playing on his lips. The car’s radio, revived by a simple fuse replacement, filled the cabin with a nostalgic melody. David was adamant about preserving the car’s original character, rejecting the temptation of adding a subwoofer, a trend that he found utterly distasteful.
While the car rode on its original wheels, aftermarket tires had replaced the classic whitewalls. Initially hesitant, David grew to appreciate the modern touch. He even found a replacement Cadillac emblem on eBay to adorn the glove box door.
The mechanic had devised a three-phase repair plan. The first phase would address leaks and worn seals, ensuring the car’s pristine condition. A fresh coat of paint for the hood was also on the agenda.
Phase two would focus on the suspension and exhaust systems, while the final phase would tackle smaller details, including upgrading the radio with an AM transmitter. David couldn’t resist making light hearted jokes about the car’s mafia-style past in Las Vegas, a history that was impossible to erase.
He had his hands full, juggling the Cadillac’s restoration with another project: fixing Tyler Hoover’s 2016 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat. Tyler, having purchased the seven-year-old Dodge for $26,000, was facing a major issue: the notorious HEMI tick. This problem, along with other necessary repairs, had inflated the estimated cost from $3,000 to $4,000 to a staggering $10,000.
