61' Buick

[Auto Rod Technologies]

A lil buick project in the works, this one is slow moving and needs a lot of work but we are continuously moving forward.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/DSC01204-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/DSC01206-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/DSC01209-1.jpg

[Auto Rod Technologies]

As seen in the pics above they thought this car was in a "ready to paint" stage.
As you can see in the pics below. This was far from the case.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/DSC01230-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/DSC01235-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/DSC01485-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/DSC01486-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/DSC01488-1.jpg

[Auto Rod Technologies]

now to start working in the other direction.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/DSC01861-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/DSC01866-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/DSC01867-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/DSC01872-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/DSC02053-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/DSC02055-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/DSC02058-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/DSC02307-1.jpg

[Auto Rod Technologies]

We started working on the doors a little today, hopefully make some more headway on them this week.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/DSC02437-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/DSC02441-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/DSC02447-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/DSC02444-1.jpg

[d.c.]

Nice to see another Buick fan. I have been working on my 53 on and off for a few years now.

[cluxford]

My next car. Look forward to seeing the progress what are the plans for it

[Auto Rod Technologies]

The downside to these buicks is that body panels ar tough to find. so time to break out the metal equipment and tig welder. lol..


Plans as of now are upgraded brakes, bigger wheels, suspension mods which have yet to be decided on, but lowering and air have both been discussed, I believe we are going air though.
Sounds like black body, I think he's keeping the teal interior but I think it's a mis match, one or the other should probably be changed. what are your thoughts??

Upgrading trans to probably a 700R4, not sure on motor, I have not seen what he had in it or discussed any plans to change.
Right now we are focusing on getting the body patches done and then on to the next stage.

Probably a vintage air set-up.

I kind of want to get it off of the rotisserie as well, because I have a impala resto project that may end up on that.

As of now that is all that is planned, but we know how these projects snowball.

[Auto Rod Technologies]

Here's a few sheet metal pics for you guys.

Should have some more pics coming soon too, hopefully going to stick with these doors till the patches are at least made and tacked on.


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/DSC02455-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/DSC02457-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/DSC02459-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/DSC02462-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/DSC02469-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/DSC02471-1.jpg

[gardnerme]

IMHO, The 1961 Buicks are some of the best looking cars to come out of Michigan. I would give my proverbial left *** to get one. I am excited to watch this build develop. Keep posting progress pics!

Agreed about the black and teal interior, too. It just won't be quite right, I am a "too each his own" kind of guy.

[Auto Rod Technologies]

They are actually a fairly rare car, and from what i've seen they don't gain much market value with that rarity.

[page2171]

Cool project! I will definitely be watching this project. I have a 62 Buick Electra that will be a project someday.

[FRENCHBLUE72]

Thats too bad the car was in such rough shape it sure looked like it was ready for some color... These cars really looks great when done up..

[Nothingface5384]

Awsome project there !
looking forward to the progessyou should also post up on v8buick.com if you havent already, lots of buick guys would like to see a nice 61

[Nothingface5384]

i know guys have put buick 300-340-350s in these with buick 215 motor mounts and slightly altered trans tunnel to fit st300 2speed auto and th350 3 speed auto.

Do you think it'll be hard to swap in a 8.5 ten bolt in the ass-end of these lil 61-63 Y-bodies?

[Auto Rod Technologies]

Thats too bad the car was in such rough shape it sure looked like it was ready for some color... These cars really looks great when done up..

You can say that again, this car was hurting.. He's bringing it back to life though.

[Auto Rod Technologies]

Awsome project there !
looking forward to the progessyou should also post up on v8buick.com if you havent already, lots of buick guys would like to see a nice 61

I've never been on that forum, seems the car has a lot of interest though, i've always been more of a mopar fan but have restored more chevy's than anything. This is going to turn into a fun project before it's over with,

[Auto Rod Technologies]

i know guys have put buick 300-340-350s in these with buick 215 motor mounts and slightly altered trans tunnel to fit st300 2speed auto and th350 3 speed auto.

Do you think it'll be hard to swap in a 8.5 ten bolt in the ass-end of these lil 61-63 Y-bodies?

I don't know what his plans are with the axle or drive train as of yet, but we may be doing some cutting for air ride suspension before it's over with, making any axle fit at that point wouldn't be much of a issue.

As far as trans I believe the ultimate goal is a 700r

[Auto Rod Technologies]

on a positive note, while i'm working on my dodge tomorrow, I believe dave is going to come in and do some tig welding on some of these patches, we will see, if not next week will come soon enough. lol

[Auto Rod Technologies]

Not much of a update, but also have door bottoms welded on too. I'll have to get some pics.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/DSC02489-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/DSC02492-1.jpg

[CruizinKev]

very nice project! looks good so far!! :twothumbs

[Auto Rod Technologies]

Made a little progress on a quarter panel patch today.
Long way to go but happy with the first contour line.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/10/DSC03461-1.jpg

[rektek]

white or red interior sure look great on these cars. light blue or platinum with a white top.


The downside to these buicks is that body panels ar tough to find. so time to break out the metal equipment and tig welder. lol..


Plans as of now are upgraded brakes, bigger wheels, suspension mods which have yet to be decided on, but lowering and air have both been discussed, I believe we are going air though.
Sounds like black body, I think he's keeping the teal interior but I think it's a mis match, one or the other should probably be changed. what are your thoughts??

Upgrading trans to probably a 700R4, not sure on motor, I have not seen what he had in it or discussed any plans to change.
Right now we are focusing on getting the body patches done and then on to the next stage.

Probably a vintage air set-up.

I kind of want to get it off of the rotisserie as well, because I have a impala resto project that may end up on that.

As of now that is all that is planned, but we know how these projects snowball.

[Glenn]

What a great project, love it.

[jlcustomz]

I'm sure more people will take interest here once you get past rust replacement & start with the cool stuff, but I always find pictures of metal fab inspiring to me. I don't always need actual instruction for a lot of things, just pictures for inspiration.

[BulldawgMusclecars]

We recently did some work on a '59 Buick LeSabre...love the old Buicks!

[r.a.w.rods]

Nice progress so far.

[BigO]

keep us updated

[Auto Rod Technologies]

Struggling with this quarter panel patch, trying to do it in one piece and also easy to reproduce.
I'm leaning towards press form or more press dies at this point.

stay tuned.. lol.

[CTX-SLPR]

I don't know what his plans are with the axle or drive train as of yet, but we may be doing some cutting for air ride suspension before it's over with, making any axle fit at that point wouldn't be much of a issue.

As far as trans I believe the ultimate goal is a 700rHe's thinking of the tiny Special/Skylark that's built off of the Corvair floorpan. The full sizes share the basic configuration with the 63-70 Riviera but have a different steering box arrangement and some other differences. Other than custom fabricating an oil pan, you're going to be hard pressed to fit anything into the rear steer, front crossmember engine bay other than a Nailhead or a Big Block Buick with a Riviera pan. You can do a 300/340/350 with an early 300 oil pan but it's some work. I custom fabed my Buick V6 pan out of an early 300 pan V8 and a 80's Regal V6 pan.
TH700R4 can be put behind a BBB, I did it with my 70 Riviera. Just need a BOP adapter and a custom driveshaft. Be aware these cars are 2 piece shafts through the X-frame and the center carrier bearing can be fragile.

Sorry for the old post but I'm interested in seeing how things are going as 61 "pointy fender" Buicks are second only to the 63-65 Rivieras in my list of favorite cars.

[Auto Rod Technologies]

He's now talking about a 400 trans with gear venders over drive unit.

[RMMiller]

I envy your metal working ability. It makes me thankful to live where I do, rust is not a huge issue when you live in a place that has less than 10" of precip per year.


Sorry for the old post but I'm interested in seeing how things are going as 61 "pointy fender" Buicks are second only to the 63-65 Rivieras in my list of favorite cars.

Couldn't agree more, those early Rivs are beautiful cars! I really like the not so common cars which is one of the reasons I parted ways with my 68 GTO. I have a friend selling a nice little 62 Olds Jetfire and if I didn't have my Maverick I'd be working a deal with him on it. Real clean car that would be a great foundation for a build.

[CTX-SLPR]

He's now talking about a 400 trans with gear venders over drive unit.I need to make a major correction!!! The steering box differences makes the 61's the only combo of X-frame and Rear Sump oil pan for a Full Sized Buick. That opens up the engine choices a lot (though it would pain me to see another chevy powered Buick). Going to the TH400 helps since nailhead and BBB both were backed by them as were the SBB and V6's. However fitting that GV with the X-frame still might be a problem.

[xs650shawn]

Just discovered this thread. Like the work, glad to see another Buick being built. Subscribed.

[Auto Rod Technologies]

[QUOTE=RMMiller;950615]I envy your metal working ability. It makes me thankful to live where I do, rust is not a huge issue when you live in a place that has less than 10" of precip per year.


Around here were luck to get anything with any metal left on it.. lmao.. I enjoy doing some of the rougher metal repair work, better than seeing these cars get crushed. On a temporary break on this car, but it's good timing as i'm getting some more tooling to make it easier to make these quarter panels.

[Auto Rod Technologies]

I need to make a major correction!!! The steering box differences makes the 61's the only combo of X-frame and Rear Sump oil pan for a Full Sized Buick. That opens up the engine choices a lot (though it would pain me to see another chevy powered Buick). Going to the TH400 helps since nailhead and BBB both were backed by them as were the SBB and V6's. However fitting that GV with the X-frame still might be a problem.

I'm pretty sure he is in the process of getting the original motor rebuilt for it right now. We're pretty busy here right now so him focusing on the motor is a good thing, plus then it will be ready when we get to it, he is planning on getting frame powder coated along with all of the suspension components so it should all look pretty clean when finished up.

[Auto Rod Technologies]

I think he's been looking at wheel choices to. not sure what he is going to pick.. anxious to see.

[Auto Rod Technologies]

This thread has been sleeping for a while, time to update it with a few pics, started putting some more effort into those quarter panels.
Started last week, here's some pics.

These pics are of the rear body mount section of the body, made some new mounts to weld in.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/DSC04531_zpsd708392d-1.jpg (http://s44.photobucket.com/user/projectpages001/media/61%20Buick/DSC04531_zpsd708392d.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/DSC04533_zpsed479a28-1.jpg (http://s44.photobucket.com/user/projectpages001/media/61%20Buick/DSC04533_zpsed479a28.jpg.html)

[Auto Rod Technologies]

Now for some quarter panel pictures. Want to dive in a little deeper into metal work, and perhaps cut back a little on how far I get into these projects..
Want to focus on metal work and paint/body work in the future, a little less mechanical..


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/DSC04720_zpsb39afaad-1.jpg (http://s44.photobucket.com/user/projectpages001/media/61%20Buick/DSC04720_zpsb39afaad.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/DSC04509_zpsefc7d866-1.jpg (http://s44.photobucket.com/user/projectpages001/media/61%20Buick/DSC04509_zpsefc7d866.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/DSC04529_zps7893acd7-1.jpg (http://s44.photobucket.com/user/projectpages001/media/61%20Buick/DSC04529_zps7893acd7.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/DSC04755_zps6a79fabd-1.jpg (http://s44.photobucket.com/user/projectpages001/media/61%20Buick/DSC04755_zps6a79fabd.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/DSC04756_zps52d5cd46-1.jpg (http://s44.photobucket.com/user/projectpages001/media/61%20Buick/DSC04756_zps52d5cd46.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/DSC04757_zps79c883e5-1.jpg (http://s44.photobucket.com/user/projectpages001/media/61%20Buick/DSC04757_zps79c883e5.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/DSC04758_zps5263300e-1.jpg (http://s44.photobucket.com/user/projectpages001/media/61%20Buick/DSC04758_zps5263300e.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/DSC04759_zpsfc566a00-1.jpg (http://s44.photobucket.com/user/projectpages001/media/61%20Buick/DSC04759_zpsfc566a00.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/DSC04789_zpsf490a77e-1.jpg (http://s44.photobucket.com/user/projectpages001/media/61%20Buick/DSC04789_zpsf490a77e.jpg.html)

[AusMarty]

Man... That takes some serious skill.
I would love to learn how to do that stuff.. but I ain't smart enough.

All I am good at is the driving side of things. lol.

[Auto Rod Technologies]

It's been a little bit of a learning curve for me but i'm starting to get the hang of it thanks to a class I took from Wray Schelin..
http://www.proshaper.com/

He's a great teacher, and very knowledgeable on metal..

It helps that I knew I wanted to go in this direction with work so I've been buying and building equipment over the last few years, I think i'm off to a good start now in progressing the shop into doing more sheet metal work..

I have spent a little bit of time on this today, I have the back section clamped into place, Almost ready to weld in but I need to do some final fitment work.. Maybe i'll post up a pic tomorrow.

[AusMarty]

Oh, that's cool.

See here in Australia...

We take four years of 1 day a week at TAFE, and the First two years is utter bullsh*t which is why so many people drop out - like I did.
Only after 4 years can you get a trade cert to allow you to run a business.
Same with Mechanical, electrical, etc.

I hate my country. :(

[Auto Rod Technologies]

Weird they have a 1 day a week class. Seems like a way to drag it out!

[Auto Rod Technologies]

his class is 3 days,, 9am-12am,, It can make for a long day but you can absorb a lot in that time frame.

[AusMarty]

Yes.
But does it take four years, and you don't learn anything 'til 3/4 the way through?
lol.

[Auto Rod Technologies]

I'll take the 3 days.. lol.

[Auto Rod Technologies]

Got the rear section pretty close this morning, then spent the rest of the day building some equipment.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/DSC04792_zpsfac53801-1.jpg (http://s44.photobucket.com/user/projectpages001/media/61%20Buick/DSC04792_zpsfac53801.jpg.html)

[71RS/SS396]

I'm not sure how I missed this thread but nice metal work. Do you want do a 61 post next lol? I have a post LeSabre in nee of some attention

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/09/61Buick1003-1.jpg (http://s1009.photobucket.com/user/tmackg71/media/61%20buick/61Buick1003.jpg.html)

[Auto Rod Technologies]

Sweet looking car.

thanks!!! Are you're quarters shot too?? Couldn't find them anywhere,, decided this was the only option. lol.

and how I wish that car were here to get patterns off of.. I had to mud and glass up a quarter just to get a template.. I couldn't find anyone around here with one. these cars are hard to find.

[nekkidhillbilly]

original motor would have been one of the nailheads. which is a great motor and would be my choice. downside he would need a adapter to run anything besides a trans that came on a nailhead. there alot more expensive than bop adpater around 800 bucks. but with that he can run any chevy trans. i wouldnt waste the cash if i was him on a th400 and gv really. a built 700r4 or 2004r and the adapter would equal out in every way for cost power overdrive and would be cheaper on gas.

[Auto Rod Technologies]

I usually put 700R4's in them, I can't remember why he was thinking to go with the 400 and gear vendors.

[Auto Rod Technologies]

made a little more progress.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/DSC04796_zps5ffb153d-1.jpg (http://s44.photobucket.com/user/projectpages001/media/61%20Buick/DSC04796_zps5ffb153d.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/DSC04798_zpsd72808f1-1.jpg (http://s44.photobucket.com/user/projectpages001/media/61%20Buick/DSC04798_zpsd72808f1.jpg.html)

[Auto Rod Technologies]

Took a little bit different approach on the other side.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/DSC04801_zps3f7c9a1a-1.jpg (http://s44.photobucket.com/user/projectpages001/media/61%20Buick/DSC04801_zps3f7c9a1a.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/DSC04803_zps7b991132-1.jpg (http://s44.photobucket.com/user/projectpages001/media/61%20Buick/DSC04803_zps7b991132.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/DSC04820_zps41948d26-1.jpg (http://s44.photobucket.com/user/projectpages001/media/61%20Buick/DSC04820_zps41948d26.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/DSC04824_zpsac1281be-1.jpg (http://s44.photobucket.com/user/projectpages001/media/61%20Buick/DSC04824_zpsac1281be.jpg.html)

[Auto Rod Technologies]

Before Vs. After
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/DSC04830_zpsc64b64b6-1.jpg (http://s44.photobucket.com/user/projectpages001/media/61%20Buick/DSC04830_zpsc64b64b6.jpg.html)


Sitting good!!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/DSC04831_zps1f7e994a-1.jpg (http://s44.photobucket.com/user/projectpages001/media/61%20Buick/DSC04831_zps1f7e994a.jpg.html)

[65falkone]

I'm not sure how I missed this thread but nice metal work. Do you want do a 61 post next lol? I have a post LeSabre in nee of some attention

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/09/61Buick1003-1.jpg (http://s1009.photobucket.com/user/tmackg71/media/61%20buick/61Buick1003.jpg.html)

This is the coolest looking car I have seen in a very long time - new desktop!

[Auto Rod Technologies]

Made inner wheel well patch today, wasn't sure how to make this one but I think it came out pretty good, especially for something that you will never see once the quarter panel is on.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/DSC04835_zps6962ac3d-1.jpg (http://s44.photobucket.com/user/projectpages001/media/61%20Buick/DSC04835_zps6962ac3d.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/DSC04836_zps63426b5f-1.jpg (http://s44.photobucket.com/user/projectpages001/media/61%20Buick/DSC04836_zps63426b5f.jpg.html)

[Auto Rod Technologies]

This was the previous repair!!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/DSC04841_zps11aaea75-1.jpg (http://s44.photobucket.com/user/projectpages001/media/61%20Buick/DSC04841_zps11aaea75.jpg.html)

Start of new floor extension.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/DSC04840_zps3e7a94b6-1.jpg (http://s44.photobucket.com/user/projectpages001/media/61%20Buick/DSC04840_zps3e7a94b6.jpg.html)

[Auto Rod Technologies]

Starting to feel like things are finally starting to come together!!
Got both sides in epoxy today, getting close to putting the quarter panels on for good.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/11/DSC04867_zps2256db7a-1.jpg (http://s44.photobucket.com/user/projectpages001/media/61%20Buick/DSC04867_zps2256db7a.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/11/DSC04877_zps55f2f945-1.jpg (http://s44.photobucket.com/user/projectpages001/media/61%20Buick/DSC04877_zps55f2f945.jpg.html)

[jlcustomz]

More boring rust repair:::::::::::

I love pictures of boring rust repair done up the correct way, I can learn a lot just from pics.

Nice work as usual on your posts.

[Auto Rod Technologies]

More boring rust repair:::::::::::

I love pictures of boring rust repair done up the correct way, I can learn a lot just from pics.

Nice work as usual on your posts.


Lol.. Metal work is one of the few things that doesn't bore me anymore!!

[Auto Rod Technologies]

I just threw in the towel for the night.. But finally got the quarters on for the last time.. I'm beat!!!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/11/DSC04881_zps9484d401-1.jpg (http://s44.photobucket.com/user/projectpages001/media/61%20Buick/DSC04881_zps9484d401.jpg.html)

Here's a pic of new body mounts, I think they should do the job.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/11/DSC04880_zpsb4d88c5f-1.jpg (http://s44.photobucket.com/user/projectpages001/media/61%20Buick/DSC04880_zpsb4d88c5f.jpg.html)

[Jon69RagTop]

Awesome work, I bet your ready for a few beers - I would be.

[Auto Rod Technologies]

YES!!!! I just had a few,, trying to unwind.. Tomorrow morning comes early!!!!

[Auto Rod Technologies]

Back to more panel repair on this one for a little while.
I think this trunk was the last of it.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/DSC05095_zps7f09ed1e-1.jpg (http://s44.photobucket.com/user/projectpages001/media/61%20Buick/DSC05095_zps7f09ed1e.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/DSC05102_zpseeb92550-1.jpg (http://s44.photobucket.com/user/projectpages001/media/61%20Buick/DSC05102_zpseeb92550.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/DSC05096_zpsdd508d57-1.jpg (http://s44.photobucket.com/user/projectpages001/media/61%20Buick/DSC05096_zpsdd508d57.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/DSC05140_zps15d9e938-1.jpg (http://s44.photobucket.com/user/projectpages001/media/61%20Buick/DSC05140_zps15d9e938.jpg.html)

[Radlark]

WOW EXCELLENT fabrication man!!! Looking forward to more progress on this I kn it has been awhile but really nice work!!

[Auto Rod Technologies]

WOW EXCELLENT fabrication man!!! Looking forward to more progress on this I kn it has been awhile but really nice work!!

Thanks, we have been discussing to start working on this one again but we have a few other things to finish up first.

[Radlark]

Thanks, we have been discussing to start working on this one again but we have a few other things to finish up first.

Post pics of those as well, your fab skills are pretty awesome would love to see more of your work I am sure others would too!!!

[Auto Rod Technologies]

Right now I am focusing on this project.
https://www.pro-touring.com/threads/107625-Auto-Rod-Technologies-Parts-Runner-SRT-10

And we just finished working on Dante's Chevelle for a little bit.
https://www.pro-touring.com/threads/102807-Dante-s-Chevelle


Should be seeing a lot of progress on the SRT over the next month if things go as planned.

[drylegmcrae]

Very nice work. Good to see you saving this old Buick. Nobody asked but here's a picture of my '62 Electra.

[Auto Rod Technologies]

Oh man.. that's nice,, this one is going to be black as well.