First Post - 1972 Buick Skylark Convertible Just found this Board. I don't know why it took me so long to find this vibrant community that I expect will be the font of all Buick knowledge. I bought a 1972 Buick Skylark convertible for $1875. Nearly perfect and only 40,000 miles. It was a great deal back in June, 1975 when I bought the car from the original owner. It was a daily driver through college and beyond and then became a fun car to drive in the California sunshine. I've done very little to it since I bought it. Some upholstery and paint in 1984. Another top in 1994. After sitting unused for five years, I've got the bug again and want to get the car in good order. I don't plan on showing the car, but I wouldn't mind bringing it back to its former glory. Where to start? The interior is a problem. The dash pad is multiply cracked and still bears the scars from my old dog (deceased 1979) who tried to dine on the interior from time to time. The seats are cracked as well and the springs and foam are pretty bad in front. The car never stopped very well on its four-wheel drum brakes and the front end is original, so its time to go through the front end and upgrade the brakes. After that, a fresh coat of paint should do it. At 147,000 miles, the engine still has good compression, but the carburetor needs work. The exhaust system leaks. Well, I guess there will be more to do after the paint. I'm just learning of all the resources available. I worry that replacing the dash pad will be a problem. I'll post more questions as I move through the process. For now, I'll just say hello and thanks in advance. Marc
Hello There are dash pads for sale here from time to time. Does yours have the Buckle light or not? Advertise under parts wanted. There was a thread yesterday about after market disc brake conversions from different companies. An alternative is to get a set up from a donor car. see www.buickpeformance.com George N. who runs that site is oftentimes on this Board.
Hi Marc, Don't worry about the dash pad change. Removed my own a couple weeks ago , first attempt, piece of cake. I don't forget hindsight is always 20/20. On & off a few more times to solve some instrument bugs. Lots of guys here can give you some sound advice. Might take all of 15 minutes once you've done it the first time.
