I know Sean well and was interested in car for years finally bought it do you think it’s a worth wile project.. I like the car and always wanted it but realized now that there is a lot involved! Not too many places want to do this!!!
He's a cool guy! He showed me his other cars in the barn when I was there too. I was supposed to go back in the spring time last year to look at the cars more in depth but then covid hit and shut everything down. I never did get back out to look them over. I was planning to buy both from him if we were able to strike a deal. To answer your question about restoring it, well that depends on alot of things. How good/bad is the condition of the car and how bad do you want to restore it. Also how much time or money do you want to spend on it. The parts for these cars are extremely hard to find, next to no aftermarket parts/support for them so you're stuck with hunting down good usable original parts. The only repop panels I've found are floor pan sections. Maybe post up some more pics and info of the cars condition, that way it's alot easier for us to help guide you in which direction to go with the car? Does Sean still have the 67 Riv?
This site is the #1 place to be for info, help/support and to find/buy parts you need. I would spent some time on here reading and researching about these cars before you start tearing into it. Alot of parts that you would think are easy replaceable items actually aren't unfortunately. PM me any time if you like and I'd be more than happy to help you out with info on the car, I've learned a ton about these Riv's from this site. Also another shop came to mind. It's called Radical rods and restorations, it's located in Innisfil, ON (where I'm from) just north of you. They specialize in restoring old cars. I've been to their shop and it's nice, they do nice work too from what I've seen. Whatever you do DO NOT, I repeat DO NOT go to the classic car guild in Bradford, ON they will rake you over the coals until they bleed every last cent out of you and the craftsmanship (or lack there of) is not that great. I've had no experience with them personally but have heard alot of horror stories from guys at cruise ins who have.
Also if you go to the "a boat load of fun" section on this site you'll find alot of info on the "big cars" like our Riv's.
I really like the shape of the Riviera, very unique that why I want to restore it!!! You have seen the car what do you think? Is there too much work?
Me too that's why I picked the second gen Riv I think they look the best out of the 3 generations. Don't get me wrong the earlier 60's (especially 65) Rivs are nice too and I love a tastefully done Boattail. I did see your car but I didn't get a chance to really look it over when I was there. There was quite a bit of ice/snow still under and around the car to get a good visual underneath it. I never inspected the engine in depth or try to start it but Sean did say they did run but have sat for a few years. In my opinion from what I seen both the cars need some love and TLC inside and out. I wouldn't condemn it a parts car until it was really gone over. The main part of concern is the body, frame and interior to see what needs to be done there as those are the hardest areas to get parts for. The engine and trans can be pulled and rebuilt or replaced. The rear on these cars are almost bulletproof so as long as nothing is completely rusted out or seized it shouldn't need to much. That being said the 9 3/8 rears on these cars are quite unique and share nothing with other rear ends and also have no aftermarket support for gears and carriers. You said the car is in Shelburne now, that's not too far from me. I could meet up with you and go over the car with you to help get a list and plan of attack for it if you'd like?
Hi that would be great i have to go up there this Saturday I should be done sometime in afternoon I will message u and if you have a moment maybe we can meet up!!!
I couldn’t open the driver side door or trunk both stuck it was a decision I made purely on emotions!!!that is to get the car!!!
This Saturday (as in tomorrow) I'm working and won't be able to meet you but possibly next weekend? But yes PM me and we'll exchange numbers and get something set up to help you with this car.
I would rent a trailer and take it down into the US to have the bodywork done. Or buy a welder, practice and then do the work yourself. We have a bunch of pro body guys on here that will spend the time to help you. I learned bodywork from an old guy, maybe all you need is guidance.
