10/02/2021
Here is a beautiful example of an all original 1963 Lincoln Continental convertible in Rose Beige both inside and out. This car nick-named “Rosie” initially came in for troubleshooting on the dash lights (alternator & oil lights), an auto drop problem and heat/AC refurbishment.
So, the car is ready to go back to its owner and guess what? It wouldn’t start. I think that “Rosie” may have been having some separation anxiety. The cause of the trouble was the starter solenoid. So I changed it and since the solenoid had a short, the battery was drained. Switched out the battery and “Rosie” started right up. Lesson -if you don’t know how old your starter solenoid is, change it! (I’ve had three old solenoids fail in the last four months on customer cars)
Then after bringing the AC system back to life, the compressor decided that it needed to be replaced. (lots of noise that didn’t go away). Changed the clutch bearing too…..And since “Rosie” is with me for another week, why not put the correct three port fuel pump on with a heat shield, a new distributor vacuum advance and the “infamous” fuel pump push rod. Whew!
I like to do what I call a dependability service. Every time I’ve purchased a car, I go through these items. For the last forty years, it has served me well-my cars usually get me home and then die in the driveway!
Always check/replace or rebuild:
Battery cables
Starter solenoid
Belts
Spark plugs, points, rotor, condenser. Check your plug wires too!
Hoses (don’t forget about your fuel lines too!)
Vacuum lines
Cooling system (180 degree thermostat only please)
Distributor vacuum advance
Fuel pump (look at your push rod if it is a 430 or 462)
Carburetor (rebuild it -who knows how old the gaskets are)
How do you “feel” about your alternator or generator?
How do you “feel” about your starter?
Look inside your master cylinder -dirty? You need some brake service.
Tire age
Brakes -take off every drum and look.
Check the oil level in your differential
Oil change w/ filter
Air filter
