To everything there is a season....

"To everything there is a season and a time to every purpose under the Heavens..."
Ecclesiastes 3:1.

I've been racing and building Buick motors since 1968, I can't even estimate the number I've done, but the last 20 years since my real job retirement has been particularly busy.
I do a lot of 482 strokers, street and strip, since my machine shop is very good at off set grinding crankshafts. From Alaska to South Carolina,to Oklahoma,to New Jersey and Denmark theres Buicks sporting my strokers. I've enjoyed building these motors and its helped me to build my own stuff and attend race programs.
It's gotten to the point however where age is catching up,(76) and its taking longer to build motors and tiring to be in the shop anymore.
I have 2 more, a 464 and 482, to complete on stands, after they are done so am I. I'll be able to focus on my own cars and motors more without being whipped when I come in the house.
I'll still be available for consultation or recommendations for machine work or machinists.
There are many good people and shops out there that know Buicks, seek them out.
Thank you to everyone that put your trust in me to build a reliable and fast motor or a concours worthy mill. It has been my pleasure to serve you.
See you at Buick events. The GS Nationals is next.
Sincerely, Gary

 

Sounds like you have truly earned your retirement.

 

Congrats on your almost-retirement Gary. I'm no kid anymore either, and things that I would have shrugged off ten years ago tire me a bit now. Today is typical; I decided to vacuum the floor of my garage about an hour and a half ago. When I got the shop vac out it wouldn't roll. All of the wheels were full of gook. A bit later - after removing all four, disassembling all of them, getting what looks like fur out of everything, and reassembling the wheels and reinstalling them, I'm taking a computer break. I still have to vacuum the garage.

 

yep the dash lights go on without much warning

 

Dang Gary,
Being selfish,I always hoped that one day with inheritance I could get one of your motors my friend.
Guess that’s not going to be in the cards but still glad for my buddy getting one of your motors & I’ll get to experience one of your creations in a ride along hopefully.
Happy 2nd retirement buddy,guess I’ll be seeing you pretty soon though to pick Jacks motor up (and my heads & intake you are fine tuning) but until then take care & thanks for always being there for the Buick “brotherhood” .

Kindest Regards,

Herr Fritzenshiftin

 

Take a break and do your own stuff. I'd love to join ya in that. However.. I still got several more years until I can afford to do so.

 

Yep, Jacks is the finale, and your stuff. Jack is still on hold,waiting on a girdle from TA. Thanks Fritz

 

...your words resonate with many here. We all know someone whose services we never managed to get to and are sorry we didn't. I'm glad for you that you made the choice to spend your time how you want. Some never get there. Good luck in whatever you do here on out...

 

LOL, I do that too, thought I was the only one

 

Gary,
Thank you for the help you gave me in the past with 2 minor motors I did you have helped support me as I learned. As I assemble the Stage 1 motor I may give you a call or message for moral support as I work though it. You have provided a good service for those Buick challenged many have benefited from your service. Tony

 

...this seems like a good time to say thanks to all here for all you provide. Every time I read a thread, there's always someone with an answer, recommendation, part, etc., and I come away smarter, even if topic wasn't about something for me. Being acutely aware of my age, I find myself responding more than I used to, not because I think I've gotten smarter, but because what's contributed here may last longer than we do...

 

I turned 70 last year Gary and alarms started to go off. I still help some close friends with engines but need to focus on my stuff and family. It may seem selfish but we have earned it....be well.....see you in the lanes....

 

The last engine I had in my car was from GARY. I always love sharing what it sounded like. Thanks GARY for all your help over the years!

 

I’m glad you are going to be able to work on your own cars. I’ve seen two of them and had hopes of getting to see Thumper. Enjoy your time. Hope to see you at the Nationals

 

I know exactly how you feel!!

 

You earned it my friend - big time. In the past 17 years I have gotten 50 years of experience chatting with you about all kinds of Buick stuff. You have been my well of knowledge, and you have always helped me in any way posssible.
My Buick endavours over here would not have been possible without you.
Thank you Mr. Buick

 

Thank you my Danish brother.

 

I'm also always impressed w/the bredth of knowledge amongst us for such a small group.

Gary, was a pleasure to finally meet you last summer! You're truly one of the legends in the Buick world.

 

Congratulations and enjoy your 2nd retirement!
Troy

 

All the best Gary!