This Sunday, (2/13) I'm going to look at a 1954 Coupe DeVille to possibly purchase. Anybody have any input on what I should look for? Problem spots, common issues with the car.. etc... The car is a bit of a fixer-upper, but not a wreck. It does still run and drive. From what I understand the car prepped for a new paint job 10 years ago, but was never completed. Just lookin for some insider info on what to look for. Thanks.

 

I would be paying close attention to the condition of the bumpers, especially the rear bumper, exhaust ends. Very expensive to replace/rechrome! Does all the electrical function? What is the condition of the glass and the seats?

 

my #1 by far? frame RUST !

where the frame makes contact with mounts and misc components is critical and mighty expensive to fix if the structural integrity is at question.

be sure you know the difference between SURFACE RUST which we call 'oxidation" and real rust that has eaten into the structure .. surface rust can be removed with steel wool, while real rust requires cutting, welding, grinding, and sometimes heat treatment ..

the frame is the 1st building block of cars of the 70's and older .. ...


rust of body parts and panels is not as a big deal, it can be repaired in many ways, including patches or even finding a replacement panel ...


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