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1955 CDV

Started by Jim Miller, May 14, 2022, 06:00:18 PM

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Jim Miller

Looks at a very nice 1955 CDV. Rust free, 90,000 documented miles. Has been repainted in original color and the carpet has been replaced. Original upholstery in very nice shape. Engine and hydramatic have not been touched. Engine bay and undercarriage very clean. Wiring appears original. I've become pretty familiar with my cars, but not with 1955. Any issues or peculiarities of the 1955 year that you folks would suggest I pay attention to as I look at this? Reading the forum and paying attention to advice from several members has served me well!
Jim Miller

1941 6219
1949 6237X
1970 CDV
2021 XT6
Past:
1991 SDV
1999 DeElegence
2006 DTS
2013 XTS
2016 SRX

Mike Josephic CLC #3877

#1
Do you have any pictures of the car in question? 
That might generate some discussion.  I mean good
photos of the body from all angles, the engine
compartment, interior, etc.

I have a 1955 Eldorado that was restored about
10 years ago.  The mileage on my car "showed"
75k but the odometer was broken and it easily
may have been twice that.  As far as obvious
things that go wrong with the 1955's I can't
think of much.  It likely needs just the same
TLC as any other car that age.

The engine the 331 V8 had been in production
since 1949 and a proven design by then.  Since
1955 was the final year for the original design for
the HydraMatic it was also well proven.  In my
case, the engine and transmission both had
complete rebuilds.  The motor used a quart of
oil with every fill up and it was well worn.  The
block was bored out .030 and new pistons fitted.

Mike





1955 Cadillac Eldorado
1973 Cadillac Eldorado
1995 Cadillac Seville
2004 Escalade
1997 GMC Suburban 4X4, 454 engine, 3/4 ton
custom built by Santa Fe in Evansville, IN
2011 Buick Lucerne CX
-------------------------------------
CLCMRC Museum Benefactor #38
Past: VP International Affiliates, Museum Board Director, President / Director Pittsburgh Region

Jim Miller

Photos
Jim Miller

1941 6219
1949 6237X
1970 CDV
2021 XT6
Past:
1991 SDV
1999 DeElegence
2006 DTS
2013 XTS
2016 SRX

5390john

I have a '55 CDV that I did a full body off concourse level restoration on, taking seven years. I might not be an expert, but I'm at the very least knowledgeable. The car in the photos appears to be in exceptional overall condition. FYI, the condition under the car is every bit as important, or more important, than the outward appearance. If there's rust, especially covered up rust, that's a deal breaker. If it drives well, it looks to me as though it would be a dandy fine car to purchase, assuming that the purchase price is acceptable.
My $.02 worth.
John Adams
1955 CDV "Marilyn"

"Panic Accordingly"

Mike Josephic CLC #3877

Looks like a very well preserved original looking car.
Worth a visit and test drive for sure.  You didn't say
what the owner was asking for it but it's one I would
take a close look at if the pricing is agreeable to you.

Mike
1955 Cadillac Eldorado
1973 Cadillac Eldorado
1995 Cadillac Seville
2004 Escalade
1997 GMC Suburban 4X4, 454 engine, 3/4 ton
custom built by Santa Fe in Evansville, IN
2011 Buick Lucerne CX
-------------------------------------
CLCMRC Museum Benefactor #38
Past: VP International Affiliates, Museum Board Director, President / Director Pittsburgh Region

walt chomosh #23510

Jim,
  Couldn't get the pics to download but will say that I'm excited about your possible purchase. I've been driving my 55CDV for around 23yrs now and it's been a blast! I do have factory A/C but if your potential Cadillac doesn't I'd be sure to be looking for an add on unit. (nothing wrong with an add on) The forumn has a real pro in Georgia named Art who has had numerous 50s Cadillac so he would be a good one to contact....good luck!....walt...tulsa,ok

Jim Miller

Thanks folks for the feedback. Walt, that is a beautiful car - love your color. - if you are referring to Art Gardner, yes we have communicated on things. I purchased his dual master cylinder kits for my 41 and 49.
Jim Miller

1941 6219
1949 6237X
1970 CDV
2021 XT6
Past:
1991 SDV
1999 DeElegence
2006 DTS
2013 XTS
2016 SRX

Caddy Wizard

There are not a lot of real problems with 55 Cadillacs.  One of the best years from 1949 to 1962, IMO.  Plenty of power, reliable transmission, comfy, dependable.  12v, modern wiring (not cloth covered), electric windows instead of hydraulic, PS, PB.  Engine can have vapor lock issues, but most cars in this era have the same issues at times.
Art Gardner


1955 S60 Fleetwood sedan (now under resto -- has been in paint shop since June 2022!)
1955 S62 Coupe (future show car? 2/3 done)
1958 Eldo Seville (2/3 done)