Qwiglee
Active Member
I acquired this Cuda from my Dad's cousin who had owned it for 53 years. My dad purchased it new in 1969 and drove it for 2 years and then sold it to his cousin who owned it ever since. Cousin Bill did his best to keep the Cuda in good condition over the years. I don't know the full history of the car during this time but obviously when he acquired it from my Dad in 1971 it was just a car that he used as transportation, not yet a classic. In the discussions that I have had with cousin Bill, I understand that he had a few people in his local area that would work on the car for him. So I believe he didn't do much of the work himself, especially in recent years.
The car presents well from 10 feet away but when you get up close and start examining closer, there are multiple issues in almost every area. So what I am faced with is not exactly what you would call a restoration but instead I will be sprucing up, tidying up and restoring or replacing worn or shabby looking parts. I plan on doing as much of the work myself as I possibly can. I have some experience tinkering on classics because I have been the proud owner of a 1960 Pontiac Bonneville convertible for the last 11 years. My work on the Pontiac was much the same as it should be with the Cuda as it was in fair condition when I acquired it but just needed attention to small issues all over the car.
I thought I would make this thread as a way of sharing my work and progress as I deal with various issues and maybe we can learn from each other.
Here are some pictures from day one when I acquired the Cuda.
The car presents well from 10 feet away but when you get up close and start examining closer, there are multiple issues in almost every area. So what I am faced with is not exactly what you would call a restoration but instead I will be sprucing up, tidying up and restoring or replacing worn or shabby looking parts. I plan on doing as much of the work myself as I possibly can. I have some experience tinkering on classics because I have been the proud owner of a 1960 Pontiac Bonneville convertible for the last 11 years. My work on the Pontiac was much the same as it should be with the Cuda as it was in fair condition when I acquired it but just needed attention to small issues all over the car.
I thought I would make this thread as a way of sharing my work and progress as I deal with various issues and maybe we can learn from each other.
Here are some pictures from day one when I acquired the Cuda.
