General Automobile Restoration Advice And Opinions Needed

[Floogeldy]

I've got a 1972 Cadillac that I've had for about twenty years. I actually drove it semi-regularly for about 10 years and kept it looking pretty nice. I LOVE this car but it was a bit of a money pit. The damn thing ate air conditioner compressors like candy.

It has been sitting in the driveway now for over six years. It was running when I parked it there. I don't think it is using a lot of oil or leaking oil, which might be amazing because it probably has close to 200,000 miles on it (when I got it the odometer was stuck at 96,000).

I suppose if I were going to drive it again, it would have to have a thorough going-over mechanically, and possibly even an overhaul. The seats need to be recovered, it needs painting, new tires, a new vinyl roof, and new carpet. It needs all of this to look really nice, instead of an old klunker.

I guess what I'm asking is whether or not I should bother spending the money for all of this? Will I end up eternally replacing old parts? What is the cheapest way to go about doing this sort of thing? If I need an overhaul, should I just try to by a rebuilt engine instead? I'm sure there are more questions a professional or knowledgeable person would ask.

Any suggestions, opinions and advice will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Floog

[Ready4Change]

1. How do you want to use it?

Do you just want to drive it some? Do you want to keep it forever out of emotional attachment? Do you expect it to ever become collectible?

If you just want to drive it, take it to a trusted garage and see what they find that needs fixing up. After 6 years of sitting around it WILL need work. Cars like exercise unless they are stored VERY carefully.

If you want to keep it forever, the best thing would be to give a it full up restore. Very pricey. But, it's the best way to make sure it will last. After the restore, you'll need to continue meticulous maintenance.

I'm not a fan of Cadillacs, so my opinion of its potential value shouldn't be given much weight. However, if you think it might have value, now or in the future, then perhaps you should do the full up restore. Parts are only going to get more expensive as the years roll by, and a car that has been restore is easier to maintain than one that isn't. Then again, you'll also be needing a storage facility, ie, nice garage. Under a car cover off the side of the driveway will, over time, negate any restoration job.

My .02

[Floogeldy]

2. I want to drive it

I will use it if I restore it, though it probably won't be my only car.

As far as collectibility, I've been offered $2500 for it by several people, as is, and the nice ones are going for about ten grand on the Internet.

I appreciate your input.

Thanks,

Floog