Cadillac & LaSalle Club Discussion Forum

Cadillac & LaSalle Club Forums => General Discussion => Topic started by: Cape Cod Fleetwood on December 07, 2022, 11:39:17 AM

Title: The Ark back into the shop(s) tomorrow
Post by: Cape Cod Fleetwood on December 07, 2022, 11:39:17 AM
Got some Arking in yesterday with the good weather. Raining today, the car goes to Tirrell Radiator, Inc. tomorrow for complete HVAC overhaul. (Tirrell does ALL of the vintage HVAC work for Hyannis Vintage). Every hose and vacuum line, manifold or connector to be replaced, every clamp replaced with tower clamps. The condenser was replaced 4 years ago and was sold as "working", the compressor 2 years ago, the $700 Harrison type radiator is in the trunk with a new dryer and the shop manual and a complete vacuum line diagram, I know they have all this stuff, I'm just being a girl. The shop obviously has a list of parts retailers, and they have 4 more from me including John Abend, Gar Tompkins and Jeff Burland. The heat, AC, blowers will work as new when the car is released. THEN next door to Michael at the WORLD FAMOUS Hyannis Vintage Auto when the HVAC is done for some electrical/stereo work, then into storage at Area 51. Repaint and bumper chroming waits until next winter. In other words I don't know when I'll drive this car again. I should be grateful it got its last sip of fuel yesterday for the next few months. Covers are on to help protect that 53 year old upholstery and carpets. Missing The Ark already....

Title: Re: The Ark back into the shop(s) tomorrow
Post by: James Landi on December 08, 2022, 07:56:00 AM
Laurie,

The work you're having done takes a good deal of anxiety about using a 1/2 century machine out of the equation of driving it.  I'm not a practicing CHristian, but every time my XLR executes a top down, top up cycle, I "cross myself" that the grand complication of the  coordinated origami ballet is still working perfetly  after 15 years and, Lord know, after
 hundreds of multiple cycles.  EMploying the expertise of your local specialists is also a very wise choice. And as for "return on investment," peace of mind is a terrific investment especially when you're stuck in summer Cape on route 6 traffic with the a/c  blasting and the engine  not overheating because you've invested in the original equipment designed to handle extreme conditions. All very wise decisions  Happy day,  James 
Title: Re: The Ark back into the shop(s) tomorrow
Post by: badpoints on December 08, 2022, 08:55:52 AM
Will be nice on hot summer days down on the cape.
Title: Re: The Ark back into the shop(s) tomorrow
Post by: Cape Cod Fleetwood on December 08, 2022, 09:51:05 AM
Quote from: James Landi on December 08, 2022, 07:56:00 AMLaurie,

The work you're having done takes a good deal of anxiety about using a 1/2 century machine out of the equation of driving it.  I'm not a practicing CHristian, but every time my XLR executes a top down, top up cycle, I "cross myself" that the grand complication of the  coordinated origami ballet is still working perfetly  after 15 years and, Lord know, after
 hundreds of multiple cycles.  EMploying the expertise of your local specialists is also a very wise choice. And as for "return on investment," peace of mind is a terrific investment especially when you're stuck in summer Cape on route 6 traffic with the a/c  blasting and the engine  not overheating because you've invested in the original equipment designed to handle extreme conditions. All very wise decisions  Happy day,  James 

James there are no atheists in foxholes, we create our own foxholes, LOL! These guys are great who will be doing the work, best to use them now while they're here. Route 6 isn't an issue, its 93, 3, the "expressway" in Boston on a hot summer day. And so far The Ark had no issues at all in extreme heat and stop-and-go traffic downtown. But I'm looking forward to actual AC vs 480AC and heat in the mornings for those early spring and late fall shows.
Title: Re: The Ark back into the shop(s) tomorrow
Post by: bcroe on December 08, 2022, 10:42:01 AM
Quote from: James LandiAnd as for "return on investment," peace of mind is a terrific investment especially when you're stuck in summer Cape on route 6 traffic with the a/c  blasting and the engine  not overheating because you've invested in the original equipment designed to handle extreme conditions. James 

Good investments, all my radiators have been
replaced with a new higher capacity unit.  But
for peace of mind, I need to see a coolant temp
gauge telling me what is happening.  This tiny
gas tube unit is only 1.5 in dia, easy to sneak
into the dash.  And that 270 deg scale makes it
easier to read than the bigger 90 deg gauges. 
Bruce Roe
Title: Re: The Ark back into the shop(s) tomorrow
Post by: James Landi on December 08, 2022, 04:15:39 PM
Quote from: bcroe on December 08, 2022, 10:42:01 AMGood investments, all my radiators have been
replaced with a new higher capacity unit.  But
for peace of mind, I need to see a coolant temp
gauge telling me what is happening.  This tiny
gas tube unit is only 1.5 in dia, easy to sneak
into the dash.  And that 270 deg scale makes it
easier to read than the bigger 90 deg gauges. 
Bruce Roe


Bruce,  I enthusiastically agree with you. During the last 20 years, I had three over temp  issues with Cadillacs--- the first time was during a summer night, pulling a 14 foot Whaler, and on inclines, the light came on---I saw the light because it overheated AT NIGHT.  THe other two overheat issues occurred during bright summer days--- those idiot lights are useless driving in bright sunlight. I wonder just how many dollars GM saved when they did away with the buzzer ANother data point... 5 years ago, my type S Jaguar went into LIMP mode. THe temperature gauge was right in the middle of the dial where it always lived.  TUrned out that the fan module had failed,the engine was overheated,BUT the gauge never moved past 1/2.  As our beloved cars age, I'm ALL about gauges.
Title: Re: The Ark back into the shop(s) tomorrow
Post by: Lexi on December 08, 2022, 04:38:09 PM
I am with Bruce. While I am basically a purist, I don't like the thought of my engine being destroyed by overheating, and relying on a 70 year old "Mickey Mouse" gauge as protection. So I also installed a mechanical gauge under the dash of my car. A tiny gas filled tube gives one an indirect reading which is very accurate. I also wired mine into the headlight switch so it can be seen with the rest of the cluster when driving at night. Clay/Lexi
Title: Re: The Ark back into the shop(s) tomorrow
Post by: 2011DTS on December 08, 2022, 07:43:50 PM
Laurie, gee your work is never done.... Glad you have scheduled the garage work during the non-driving season. OH, by the way I filled up the SDV a few days ago at Bucee's on I-95 at Dayton Beach. Ethnol Fee gas $2.65 a gallon, just one of the countless reasons to hurry up and get yourself down to the Sunshine State.... In one of your photos I see what you are having to pay for high test and just goes to show you the powers at be in the North East just want everyone walking. :-) :-)
Oh, PS on a serious note, did you talk to Scot Minesinger about what to tell the shop about these AC Systems, he is our club expert and has rebuilt more AC Systems in 1970-1976 Cadillacs then he can most like remember. Just a suggestion.
and PS2, have a Merry Merry Christmas....
Title: Re: The Ark back into the shop(s) tomorrow
Post by: Cape Cod Fleetwood on December 09, 2022, 11:33:21 PM
Quote from: 2011DTS on December 08, 2022, 07:43:50 PMLaurie, gee your work is never done.... Glad you have scheduled the garage work during the non-driving season. OH, by the way I filled up the SDV a few days ago at Bucee's on I-95 at Dayton Beach. Ethnol Fee gas $2.65 a gallon, just one of the countless reasons to hurry up and get yourself down to the Sunshine State.... In one of your photos I see what you are having to pay for high test and just goes to show you the powers at be in the North East just want everyone walking. :-) :-)
Oh, PS on a serious note, did you talk to Scot Minesinger about what to tell the shop about these AC Systems, he is our club expert and has rebuilt more AC Systems in 1970-1976 Cadillacs then he can most like remember. Just a suggestion.
and PS2, have a Merry Merry Christmas....

Hey honey! We're coming to THE END, trust me. Next winter will be re-chroming the bumpers and a respray, then stick a fork in me, I'm done and we'll hopefully see you at the Nationals in '24. Remember I started with a $2K burger cruiser, there was a lot to do if I wanted to save the car. Florida is not out of the question, even though the house prices have tripled from when I first started sniffing around years ago, they have up here too, its a wash. Scott is terrific for sure. This shop's owner had dealt with Cadillac Tim, he's done a TON of vintage work including Caddy's, and I gave them a lot of info when I dropped the car off. They have the ball. And Merry Christmas to you and yours my friend!
Title: Re: The Ark back into the shop(s) tomorrow
Post by: Cape Cod Fleetwood on December 09, 2022, 11:36:11 PM
Saw The Ark today, just dropped in for a moment. They've already started thrashing on him. This place is huge, mechs were thrashing multiple cars/trucks at 4:30pm. I said hi and good bye. #ArkNRoll #OhTheAmExPointsIGetThisTime
Title: Re: The Ark back into the shop(s) tomorrow
Post by: Cape Cod Fleetwood on December 22, 2022, 02:27:36 AM
I haven't seen The Ark in 2 weeks, time to visit, and its close to Christmas, I need to be with the car if only for a few moments.
 
So first stop Tirrell where The Ark is safely ensconced in the back of the massive shop well away from everyone but quite accessible to Shane who's doing a masterful job, a great guy who really cares about his work and the car. I know he's really busy, so a brief chat, brought up to date on where he's at, I'm going to look for a couple of parts, what's there could probably be made to work (the heater control valve, Shane said it probably works, he has to test it. They have a new one from NAPA too, the shape/size is wrong and will require a mod to the bracket that holds it. Options: find a NOS but I'd still be dealing with a 53 year old rubber diaphragm. Use the 'new' one and have to mod the bracket. Imma huge fan of new parts regardless of authenticity, this HVAC needs to WORK, and stay working. Shane saw the manifold vacuum "T" Michael had to replace. This part (plastic) blew out when I was going to Heritage Museums & Gardens car show 2 years ago, completely crippled the car, we were towed to HVA, I missed the show. Michael fit another part that's been working fine. But its yellow when it has to be black, and it has a spot to attach to at the fire wall, this one just kinda hangs there. This part is not produced, so find another from the era, and be prepared for it too to blow out. I'll keep the yellow one in the parts bag in the trunk, if that happens again its something I can replace on the side of the road. I saw the bag of new shiny tower clamps and some other new parts. He was glad I supplied a new dryer. They're having an issue getting the CORRECT heater core, they'll get one, the place I recommended sent one and it didn't fit. The one they ordered didn't fit either. They'll figure it out, no worries, this is what they do. The upper radiator brackets I had over nighted, are also the wrong size as the ones on the car, they're not long enough. So Shane had 2 pairs of brackets. He cut and welded until he had a pair that were the correct length. Then ground and painted them, they look factory new, I was dying. Such great work. Its why The Ark is there. Wished the car a Merry Christmas, a gentle touch good bye and off to next door...

To the WORLD FAMOUS Hyannis Vintage Auto, chats with Chris Pyne, Mike Staab, a quick hello as Gary Amster flew by and a longer chat with crew chief Michael Amster. They were really busy as always, thrashing on cars people only see in their dreams.

Such a fun day, my cousin Libby is here for a week for Christmas and I got to see The Ark and hang out with The Tribe, does it get any better? Blessed. Pics of The Ark in ICU at Tirrell with Shane attached. Hope you all had a dandy and Blessed day as well.
Title: Re: The Ark back into the shop(s) tomorrow
Post by: James Landi on December 22, 2022, 08:27:23 AM
Thank you Laurie for sharing an inspirational Cadillac Christmas narrative.  Alas, for most of us, finding local,  wonderfully talented specialists who enthusiastically work on our older cars is all but impossible.  My local "go to" young man told me, "James, I don't work on old cars." I was (am) seriously disappointment-- after  we purchased our "new" 55k miles 1988 Allante, I had a flex brake hose collapse, a mal functioning mastercyclinder, a faulty fan module, etc--- fortunately, I still have sufficient strength, patience, and accumulated experience to change out all of the brake hoses, replace a part of the master cylinder, and replace an electronic fan module  (as well as two of the four cranky amp-speaker Bose units).  but how long can a guy who's 77 do this kind of work?  Maybe Kristina I such move SOUTH to Cape Cod!   Merry Christmas Laurie,   James   
Title: Re: The Ark back into the shop(s) tomorrow
Post by: Cape Cod Fleetwood on December 22, 2022, 09:31:29 AM
Quote from: James Landi on December 22, 2022, 08:27:23 AMThank you Laurie for sharing an inspirational Cadillac Christmas narrative.  Alas, for most of us, finding local,  wonderfully talented specialists who enthusiastically work on our older cars is all but impossible.  My local "go to" young man told me, "James, I don't work on old cars." I was (am) seriously disappointment-- after  we purchased our "new" 55k miles 1988 Allante, I had a flex brake hose collapse, a mal functioning mastercyclinder, a faulty fan module, etc--- fortunately, I still have sufficient strength, patience, and accumulated experience to change out all of the brake hoses, replace a part of the master cylinder, and replace an electronic fan module  (as well as two of the four cranky amp-speaker Bose units).  but how long can a guy who's 77 do this kind of work?  Maybe Kristina I such move SOUTH to Cape Cod!   Merry Christmas Laurie,   James   

James Merry Christmas to you and yours. All the guys you need for classic cars, any breed, you can hit them all with a rock on Thornton Drive in Hyannis. And a LOT less snow here than you folks get in Maine being 40 miles out to sea. I think you're in FL now... LOL! Plenty of beautiful homes available on the Cape Cod for the discerning buyer.
Title: Re: The Ark back into the shop(s) tomorrow
Post by: 35-709 on December 22, 2022, 01:04:28 PM
If you would rather stick with the original type and look, quite sure I have read here that there are folkses that rebuild those heater control valves, maybe with better diaphragms than were available back then to. 
Just Googled "rebuild Cadillac heater control valves" and several sources came up.
Title: Re: The Ark back into the shop(s) tomorrow
Post by: Cape Cod Fleetwood on December 23, 2022, 10:01:04 AM
Quote from: 35-709 on December 22, 2022, 01:04:28 PMIf you would rather stick with the original type and look, quite sure I have read here that there are folkses that rebuild those heater control valves, maybe with better diaphragms than were available back then to. 
Just Googled "rebuild Cadillac heater control valves" and several sources came up.

I actually checked that out. Core charges between $75 and $150. A new one from NAPA is $24, just hand me a can
of flat black spray paint.

I'm *ALL FOR* originality, where it makes sense. I still can't believe I spent $700 for a $300 radiator just to
look 'original', but, whatever.
Title: Re: The Ark back into the shop(s) tomorrow
Post by: "Cadillac Kid" Greg Surfas 15364 on December 23, 2022, 11:44:48 AM
Laurie,
Late to the dance here, but as fr as the heater control valve, 69 and 70 are different than those after, so check applicability.
As far as a good copper/brass radiator $700.00 is what they are going for. I personally prefer them, not just for originality, but for their capacity to cool the 472/500 motors.
Greg Surfas
Title: Re: The Ark back into the shop(s) tomorrow
Post by: Cape Cod Fleetwood on January 04, 2023, 12:35:38 AM
I saw The Ark today! The progress the shop is making on the HVAC is awesome. Told Shane to just paint the new NAPA heater valve black, mod the bracket and go. That was becoming too much aggravation. Great to see AC lines connected, they got a heater core that was the correct size too, industry connections are everything. Tower clamps on all the new hoses and all the hoses are new.
 
I put the vacuum manifold I restored on the dash and texted Shane it was there, it "should" work. And it was damn warm and fuzzy to see the Good Book on the front seat when I left it in the trunk, attention to detail 101. I stopped at the WORLD FAMOUS Hyannis Vintage Auto first to show off the manifold, even Gary Amster gave me a scratch behind the ears for the job I did, that's as good as it gets around here. Shane texted and said he thinks he'll have the car 'done' by the end of the week. I think that's ambitious but whatever, I'm not rushing him. They're working out of 2 shops now, told Shane I'd have The Ark shipped to the other shop if it made things easier, he wants to finish where it is.

When done, The Ark drives across the parking lot to Michael and Chris at HVA so they can do their thangs this winter. Then The Ark goes across the street for an inspection sticker, then up the street and around the corner to Area 51 for storage. And if there's salt on the roads, he'll be shipped there. One thing for sure, he'll be getting a bath after the HVAC job, so dusty, I can wash him in the parking lot, I'm in-between 2 shops with tons of hoses and he'll be going right back inside, not worried about freezing.

I$n't thi$ fun? Imma tell you what, that car is going to be a LOT more fun to drive this year with heat, defrosters, AC and a working sound system. Shows this year? You bet, but NOT 32 like last year. We'll do the 'big' shows around here, support my local clubs at least once, repeat the 'new' shows I did last year IF I had fun there. Mostly out of state this year, LONG trips. If I have an LTC for your state or your state is Constitutional carry, we'll be seeing you soon... #ArkNRoll
Title: Re: The Ark back into the shop(s) tomorrow
Post by: cadillacmike68 on January 05, 2023, 11:04:18 PM
Hi Laurie,

They got a NAPA heater control valve to work??? I'm skeptical, until you see it in action. There are supposed to be 2 or three vacuum lines on these and "new" ones usually don't have these lines. You'll know one way or the other. Your pal John Abend (Capt Cadillac on ebay) usually has 65-70 heater control valves in stock - new old stock. I have a spare here on my desk that I got from him. the one I had installed in 1998 still works fine. Years 1968 and earlier they mount on the right side wheel well, but function in an identical manner.
The three most vexing issues with this era Climate Control systems are vacuum leaks, the rotary dials in the dash control and the power servo, and the heater control valve.

I thought that you already had it painted, you didn't? It looks good enough in the photos, but I've never seen it up close.

As for the necessity of a functional heating portion of Climate Control, I tooled around in the 1968 DVC on Christmas Eve and the temps progressively dropped to where I Needed heat mode. I've driven back from Old Town in Kissimmee with temps in the 30s, and the heat mode was definitely needed then!!

Be Very careful with that vacuum manifold. they break VERY easily. Ask me how I know that.

Brand new exact fit drop in heater cores are readily available. Spectra Premium and I got one from amazon of all places. your new one should last about 20 years, that's about how long mine lasted. same for the radiator. I had mine re-cored because I still have the original end tanks.

anyway, Happy New Year and best wishes for a great driving season for you in 2023 (driving season is all year down here ;)  ).



Title: Re: The Ark back into the shop(s) tomorrow
Post by: Cape Cod Fleetwood on January 06, 2023, 01:30:30 PM
Quote from: cadillacmike68 on January 05, 2023, 11:04:18 PMThey got a NAPA heater control valve to work??? I'm skeptical, until you see it in action.

Mike this a REAL shop, ALL they do is auto HVAC, antique to modern. They do all of Hyannis Vintage's work, Carini has sent cars to them.
They know to make it look 'stock', like the other mega show winners they've done.

I'm not worried.
Title: Re: The Ark back into the shop(s) tomorrow
Post by: jwwseville60 on January 08, 2023, 10:22:35 AM
Next time Im in Osterville, Im going to steal The Ark for a weekend and then return it with everything fixed!
Title: Re: The Ark back into the shop(s) tomorrow
Post by: Cape Cod Fleetwood on January 08, 2023, 10:37:24 AM
Quote from: jwwseville60 on January 08, 2023, 10:22:35 AMNext time Im in Osterville, Im going to steal The Ark for a weekend and then return it with everything fixed!

Everything will be fixed before you get here. PM me when you're coming to the 'hood.
Title: Re: The Ark back into the shop(s) tomorrow
Post by: cadillacmike68 on January 19, 2023, 02:38:14 AM
Quote from: Cape Cod Fleetwood on January 06, 2023, 01:30:30 PMMike this a REAL shop, ALL they do is auto HVAC, antique to modern. They do all of Hyannis Vintage's work, Carini has sent cars to them.
They know to make it look 'stock', like the other mega show winners they've done.

I'm not worried.

OK, that's good. Original NOS ones are still available, but I will go to the big NAPA store here and see what they are passing off as a 1965-70 Climate control heater control valve. Do you have a NAPA part # that you can share? If it looks right and is prices as you mentioned, I'll get one just to sit next to my spare here on my desk.

And, Happy New Year!
Title: Re: The Ark back into the shop(s) tomorrow
Post by: 2manycars on January 21, 2023, 01:42:42 AM
Just at the end of a long project on my 64 CdV that started out as non-functional HVAC. Led to rebuild engine and trans, and repaint everything under the hood after scraping out at least quarter inch of packed oily crud from everyplace.

I did my own. Original Air in Tampa rebuilt all of the refrigeration parts, and made new hoses for me. Took two A6 compressors to make one. New evaporator, a little smaller than original but that's all there are to be had. My original filter-dryer was recored. Radiator and heater core recored. New water valve. It had been gotten into by someone completely unqualified, not to mention the huge empty mouse nest in the cowl, where the evap sits. Everything was butchered, o-rings missing, electronics misadjusted, you name it. A ton of work, but it's ready to be recharged. The shop wants to wait about a month so that ambient temperatures will be higher when he recharges it.

Wasn't your car already repainted recently??
Title: Re: The Ark back into the shop(s) tomorrow
Post by: Cape Cod Fleetwood on January 21, 2023, 11:32:51 AM
Quote from: 2manycars on January 21, 2023, 01:42:42 AMJust at the end of a long project on my 64 CdV that started out as non-functional HVAC. Led to rebuild engine and trans, and repaint everything under the hood after scraping out at least quarter inch of packed oily crud from everyplace.

I did my own. Original Air in Tampa rebuilt all of the refrigeration parts, and made new hoses for me. Took two A6 compressors to make one. New evaporator, a little smaller than original but that's all there are to be had. My original filter-dryer was recored. Radiator and heater core recored. New water valve. It had been gotten into by someone completely unqualified, not to mention the huge empty mouse nest in the cowl, where the evap sits. Everything was butchered, o-rings missing, electronics misadjusted, you name it. A ton of work, but it's ready to be recharged. The shop wants to wait about a month so that ambient temperatures will be higher when he recharges it.

Wasn't your car already repainted recently??

Paint and body done last winter, it will get painted again (I don't like the job) and the chrome done next winter.
Engine was completely rebuilt and ALL pumps replaced the year of The Flu when they cancelled all the car shows for The Flu in '20. Transmission was rebuilt the summer of '21 and fluid switched to Ford, driveshaft was reconditioned along with the rear end at the same time.
Title: Re: The Ark back into the shop(s) tomorrow
Post by: Cape Cod Fleetwood on January 27, 2023, 12:26:37 PM
YAY! The Ark has heat and air conditioning again! The plan is to meet at Tirrell tomorrow morning with crew chief Michael Amster and go over it. The Ark will get a proper bath then be driven to Area 51 for storage. Michael can't take The Ark into the WORLD FAMOUS Hyannis Vintage Auto yet as that '41 Caddy is still taking up a double digit percentage of floor space, so The Ark will get back there when there's room. Long range weather on the Cape shows no snow at all. And the MINUTE I park him back in The Lair, we'll get a blizzard. All the credit to Michael, he said he'd come over and clear the roof if that happened and I really appreciate it. I'd rather avoid the stroke completely if I can. Psyched! HEAT and AIR CONDITIONING! This car was a blast to drive without either, it will be insane to have both functioning. YES!
Title: Re: The Ark back into the shop(s) tomorrow
Post by: 69Deville on January 27, 2023, 02:36:29 PM
Beautiful!

Love the license plate!!!
Title: Re: The Ark back into the shop(s) tomorrow
Post by: Cape Cod Fleetwood on January 27, 2023, 11:42:40 PM
Quote from: 69Deville on January 27, 2023, 02:36:29 PMBeautiful!

Love the license plate!!!

HA! Thank you  8)
Title: Re: The Ark back into the shop(s) tomorrow
Post by: Cape Cod Fleetwood on January 27, 2023, 11:53:02 PM
Quote from: cadillacmike68 on January 19, 2023, 02:38:14 AMOK, that's good. Original NOS ones are still available, but I will go to the big NAPA store here and see what they are passing off as a 1965-70 Climate control heater control valve. Do you have a NAPA part # that you can share? If it looks right and is prices as you mentioned, I'll get one just to sit next to my spare here on my desk.

And, Happy New Year!


NAPA is now out, here's the same one from Autozone, same price. These work fine. The shop modded the bracket to hold the valve, this is what
I pay for. If you need NOS John Abend has one for $120, I didn't want to use a part with an old diaphragm. Happy New Year too!
https://www.autozone.com/cooling-heating-and-climate-control/heater-control-valve?filterByKeyWord=heater+control+valve&fromString=search&isIgnoreVehicle=false&searchText=heater+control+valve
Title: Re: The Ark back into the shop(s) tomorrow
Post by: Cape Cod Fleetwood on January 28, 2023, 12:03:31 AM
Remember me making a 'new' vacuum manifold from the debris Gar Tompkins sent me? Jeez I worked hard on
that... Anyway, The Ark's fairy God Father Mike Josephic found the ONLY NOS vacuum manifold on Planet
Earth - and sent it to us, its been installed. Thank you Mike!  :-*

Title: Re: The Ark back into the shop(s) tomorrow
Post by: James Landi on January 28, 2023, 07:07:34 AM
My parents owned two '70's Cadillacs, and I vividly recall that the a/c is impressive... those large vents push out an amazing amount of cold a/c-- nothing lacking in climate comfort control on those models--- it's as if someone at the Cadillac division said, "No compromises on comfort"  Bring your electronic thermometer and get a reading...  (aside:absolutely no snow up here in Maine UNTIL last week!)   Happy day,  James
Title: Re: The Ark back into the shop(s) tomorrow
Post by: Cape Cod Fleetwood on January 28, 2023, 09:46:22 AM
Quote from: James Landi on January 28, 2023, 07:07:34 AMMy parents owned two '70's Cadillacs, and I vividly recall that the a/c is impressive... those large vents push out an amazing amount of cold a/c-- nothing lacking in climate comfort control on those models--- it's as if someone at the Cadillac division said, "No compromises on comfort"  Bring your electronic thermometer and get a reading...  (aside:absolutely no snow up here in Maine UNTIL last week!)   Happy day,  James

James about 3/4" so far this year on the mid-Cape, we're going to get slammed at some point.
Title: Re: The Ark back into the shop(s) tomorrow
Post by: Cape Cod Fleetwood on January 29, 2023, 02:44:23 AM
cut/paste from my fbook page post 10 hours ago -

Argh, its so nice to be sitting still hoping for the *NURSE* and the *BARTENDER* to kick in simultaneously. The
pain in my back and shoulder, is epic. BUT - I'm Blessed, I can still move, and there's a lot of folks in beds
and wheel chairs who will never be separated from either and being in my amount of pain but able to amble would
be a blessing for them. So -

Got The Ark from HVAC shop today, there are still "issues" but the system is working. Shane and Michael had a
phone chat, Michael knows what's going on, whatever. Sudden battery issue, I'm freaking out, Michael be like
"don't worry about it, here's a jump box, I'll fix it." Whatever.

Drove The Ark a staggering 30 yards to the WORLD FAMOUS Hyannis Vintage Auto for a needed bath, just covered in
dust. Adams car shampoo, used the Adams huge drying off towel for the first time (dried off the entire car and
never needed to be wrung out) after a good spray of Adams instant detailer all over the wet car, car looked it
just came out of the paint bay. Cleaned the glass in and out and dusted the interior as much as I could.

Then after a change into dry clothes, drove The Ark a mile to Area 51, and what a blast with blasting heat, oh
boy! The Ark is on a charger, jammies on, Michael, me, we, will get back to him. Right now he's safe, I just couldn't take the chance of a blizzard here, needing to get the snow off the roof of The Lair, physically being unable to do that now with my back and shoulder issue, having to call Michael again to rescue me... The car is better off there, I avoid the stroke, Michael avoids a 3am phone call which he would have gladly taken and responded to. There's a limit to how far you can push your friends when you can create your own solutions. Michael met me at Area 51, helped me get the car docked, and drove me back to HVA where my SUV was, so grateful. And grateful to Area 51 for holding a spot for me, not knowing "when" we'd be arriving and supplying power for the charger, so grateful.

Hot shower and into fresh soft sweats, car laundry done, cornish hen defrosting for dinner, to be stuffed with cornbread stuffing and glazed with strawberry preserves/honey. Later, much later. Right now, I need a nap. And pain relief.
 
Hope you all are having a Blessed Saturday, I sure am, I drove The Ark. So there. 🥰 Photos of The Ark after a bath then all tucked in attached....
Title: Re: The Ark back into the shop(s) tomorrow
Post by: James Landi on January 30, 2023, 07:06:11 AM
Thank you for the update. You've a terrifically engaging writing style--in spite of your painful condition--( sharing your serious physical pain with such grace and optimism ).  When you're feeling rested and better, tell us what the electrical problem seems to be, and whether it's related to the hvac work you're having done.   Hoping you're feeling better very soon,  James
Title: Re: The Ark back into the shop(s) tomorrow
Post by: Cape Cod Fleetwood on January 30, 2023, 10:36:15 AM
Quote from: James Landi on January 30, 2023, 07:06:11 AMThank you for the update. You've a terrifically engaging writing style--in spite of your painful condition--( sharing your serious physical pain with such grace and optimism ).  When you're feeling rested and better, tell us what the electrical problem seems to be, and whether it's related to the hvac work you're having done.   Hoping you're feeling better very soon,  James

Hi James, appreciate the comments, thank you.
Michael won't know what the issue is until he gets the car back on his lift, that's a ways off.
Speculation is always fun... They didn't have the car on the battery tender at the shop, they were
always in and out of the car, keeping the doors open, etc. Could have just drained down the battery.
One of the outstanding gripes is a resistor or something in the system, the HVAC shop does plumbing,
Michael and HVA do electrical, heck that could be the drain on the battery, who knows, that's their job
to figure it out. A couple of the judging mandatory tower clamps failed, instilling a lot of confidence
in me taking this car for long trips this year and next year to PA, Michael said don't worry about it.
All I know is I felt real heat when asked for heat, the AC blew ice cold, front and rear defrosters work
like jet engines. I'm happy. Michael will get it 100%, he always does.
Title: Re: The Ark back into the shop(s) tomorrow
Post by: bcroe on January 30, 2023, 02:29:48 PM
There is a system of battery maintainers here,
all IC engine start batterys are equipped with
a plug in.  If something is not in quite regular
use, it gets plugged in. 

Had another problem with doors open on the 79.
Some of the extra "luxury" overhead lights were
unable to survive operation for long.  On both
sides, the incandescent bulb melted the fixture
and shorted it out. 

I saw those tower clamps as service unfriendly,
single use.  None survive here.  Bruce Roe
Title: Re: The Ark back into the shop(s) tomorrow
Post by: 35-709 on January 30, 2023, 07:27:42 PM
"A couple of the judging mandatory tower clamps failed"

Been there, done that with those tower clamps on my '73.  They are now long gone, not worth the risk for a regularly driven car.
Title: Re: The Ark back into the shop(s) tomorrow
Post by: 2011DTS on January 30, 2023, 08:21:06 PM
Laurie, Here is what we do down our way to work around the Tower Clamp issue. Have Michael loosen all the Tower Clamps and slid them down the radiator/heater hoses, install Worm Clams, tighten the Worm Clamps, then wrap the Worm Clams with black electric tape, then slide the loose Tower Clamp over the elecric tape that is hiding the Worm Clamp and tighten it just enought to stay in place. This is a work around to prevent you from loosing a point for each incorrect clamp during Grand National Judging. This has worked for all of us who drive our 1970's Cadillacs to the Grand Nationals and do not want to take a chance that the Tower Clamp will fail and I do not know of anyone who has lost authenticity points using this method to hide the Worm Clamps. Necessity is the mother of invention..... :)  :)  :)
Title: Re: The Ark back into the shop(s) tomorrow
Post by: Highwayman68 on January 31, 2023, 08:30:50 AM
Those whitewalls look so awesome.
Title: Re: The Ark back into the shop(s) tomorrow
Post by: Cape Cod Fleetwood on January 31, 2023, 11:44:31 AM
Quote from: 2011DTS on January 30, 2023, 08:21:06 PMLaurie, Here is what we do down our way to work around the Tower Clamp issue. Have Michael loosen all the Tower Clamps and slid them down the radiator/heater hoses, install Worm Clams, tighten the Worm Clamps, then wrap the Worm Clams with black electric tape, then slide the loose Tower Clamp over the elecric tape that is hiding the Worm Clamp and tighten it just enought to stay in place. This is a work around to prevent you from loosing a point for each incorrect clamp during Grand National Judging. This has worked for all of us who drive our 1970's Cadillacs to the Grand Nationals and do not want to take a chance that the Tower Clamp will fail and I do not know of anyone who has lost authenticity points using this method to hide the Worm Clamps. Necessity is the mother of invention..... :)  :)  :)

Lynn I'm going to run that by the Judging Department. If they say good, I owe you a beer. Now, how many cars 'won' with this set up?
Title: Re: The Ark back into the shop(s) tomorrow
Post by: Cape Cod Fleetwood on January 31, 2023, 11:48:10 AM
Quote from: Highwayman68 on January 31, 2023, 08:30:50 AMThose whitewalls look so awesome.

Thank you Mark. I'm ridiculously happy with them.
Title: Re: The Ark back into the shop(s) tomorrow
Post by: Cape Cod Fleetwood on January 31, 2023, 11:56:27 AM
Trust me folks, I don't want to use tower clamps, I know they're crap. But when you're spending 5 figures to make a car competitive for a National event, you're compelled. And they'll be off as soon as we get home from PA, LED lighting installed all around, and The Ark will be a 100% out in the sun/rain/snow/ice daily driver. It would be nice to see the judging standards lowered for *Touring* to allow the safer worm clamps without penalty, like radial tires. My car is the definition of "touring class", its a driver, everywhere. Not a trailer queen with some 'signs of wear'. Lynn love your work around but - worm clamps 'can' loosen. Now you have to loosen the tower clamp, remove the electrical tape, tighten the clamp, then re-wrap everything?
Title: Re: The Ark back into the shop(s) tomorrow
Post by: Cape Cod Fleetwood on February 01, 2023, 12:18:57 AM
Quote from: 2011DTS on January 30, 2023, 08:21:06 PMLaurie, Here is what we do down our way to work around the Tower Clamp issue. Have Michael loosen all the Tower Clamps and slid them down the radiator/heater hoses, install Worm Clams, tighten the Worm Clamps, then wrap the Worm Clams with black electric tape, then slide the loose Tower Clamp over the elecric tape that is hiding the Worm Clamp and tighten it just enought to stay in place. This is a work around to prevent you from loosing a point for each incorrect clamp during Grand National Judging. This has worked for all of us who drive our 1970's Cadillacs to the Grand Nationals and do not want to take a chance that the Tower Clamp will fail and I do not know of anyone who has lost authenticity points using this method to hide the Worm Clamps. Necessity is the mother of invention..... :)  :)  :)

Lynn I ran that by a Caddy judge. And he laughed and laughed and laughed...
But I agree, the clamp IS THERE. WTF?