Projects Fly in, Drive home in my late Dads car. Attempting 2000 miles

I flew From my home up north to Arizona a couple weeks ago to be with my dad, who was in the hospital. Sadly, he passed away. My dad was a car nut his whole life, who subscribed to Hot Rod magazine from the 2nd year of its existence until now.

Here is my Dad back in the 50's and some of his cars from back in the day:







As he aged, and his health declined, his project cars became very neglected. But he kept dreaming of all his project cars, making plans, and even continuing to drag home more forlorn project cars.
So I decided that, in his honor, rather than fly back home, I am going to attempt to drive one the cars 2000 miles back home! And to make it even better, my son Cam who is a hot rodder and car nut too, is flying down and we are making the trip together.

The car that I figured needs the least work is his 63 Corvair Spyder convert.
It is a survivor, with original paint, interior, engine, all that stuff. But is has been off the road for probably 15 years or more. Previously, the turbo was removed and rebuilt, and a dual carb, non-turbo set-up and non-turbo exhaust had been installed in the interim. To save time and reduce risk, I'll leave it that way for the trip home.
In dads garage:




The first thing was to get it out of the garage and wash it up. But it wouldn't start until I went thru the carbs and got them all unplugged. Then I discovered that the brakes were stuck, and the rf was locked up. So i drove it out under the carport to start the work with the tire dragging!




I am currently going thru everything to get it road worthy. I mounted some tires on it that dad bought new about 5 years ago, went thru that carbs, and am currently working on the brakes and greasing the front and rear wheel bearings, as well as replacing the U-joints. Then I need to test drive it to see if it is road worthy enough. I realize, this could be a no-start, if I uncover a major problem. Then I'd have to fly home after all. Or we could break down on the road. We'll deal with that if it happens.
I'll try to keep the HAMB updated from time to time as we progress. Wish us luck, we'll need it!

 

Sorry to hear about your Dad, may he RIP. I’m sending my best regards for a fun and safe trip in the Corvair.

 

Condolences to you and your family in the passing of your Father...

What an emotional time this will be...I give thoughts to you and Cam on a safe Spirited journey and thank you in advance for sharing it...

The Ole Flatfloor looks pretty sharp shined up...

 

Why worry about the trip home? I'm sure he'll be looking out for you...

 

Sad times - and a great tribute road trip in his honor.

Plan B for a major breakdown on the road is a Uhaul truck and trailer. If the repair is to big for a quick fix (or you just have to report back to work) this is an option.

 

Sad News
Prayers to Family
Good luck with trip

 

It sounds like you have good memories and thoughts of your pops. I'm sorry
for your and Cam's loss. Good luck on your endeavor.

 

Sorry to hear about your dad. That seems like a cool tribute to him. What other cars does he have now? Love the Corvairs just look out for rust.

 

Condolences to you and your family in the passing of your Father...

A road trip with your son, making memories, is a great idea.

 

Sorry to hear about your dad.
From reading about your other exploits I can full and well figure that you aren't going to go off on a road trip without proper prep of the car nor will you be unprepared. Keep us posted on progress and the trip it's self.

 

So sorry for the loss of your Dad. What a great tribute to him, a trip back home in one of his cars with his Grandson along as well. Have a safe and memorable trip. Your Dad will be riding along in spirit every mile of the way.

Any HAMBers along the way: Please keep an eye out for Joel and Cam and be there for them if they need a helping hand. .............Don.

 

Sorry to hear of you losing your Dad. He would be proud of you and your son driving his beloved Corvair back to our place, I am sure he will be looking down on you. Have a safe journey.

 

Wonderful way to honor your dad and bond with your son.
A spare generator and belt in the trunk would be good insurance. At least you don't need anti freeze or hoses! Check those wheel bearings!

 

As others have said, condolences on your dad passing away, I know the emotions are high right now, I'm sure he is constantly on your mind as you and your son work to get the car up and running.

Look around the house and find a photo of your dad and put it in the glove compartment, I wish you and your son a memorable & trouble free adventure.

BTW, as a former owner of a Corvair, l would advise you to buy a spare fan belt. HRP

 

Sorry for your Loss, Good Luck/Best Wishes to you and your Son on your adventure homeward bound.

 

Should be a fun trip!

 

The spirit of your father, lives on in you and your son. So very sorry to hear of your father passing away. So very glad that you and your son, are prepping the Corvair together for the cross country trip! Agreed on the suggestion made by HRP.

 

My condolences to you and your family. Good Luck on a safe trip.

Pat

 

What a great way to pay tribute, and make some great memories with your son! Throw the turbo parts in the frunk, maybe someday you'll put it back on! If you have any problems on the way that HAMBers can't help with the Corvair Center forum is a great resource. I'll be watching, post lots of pics!! Oh, throw a tube of icy hot in the glove box, your lower back will thank you.

 

Good son

 

swi66

 

Sad to hear of Your Dad’s passing. You are not only carrying on his passion, but passing it on to Your Son, what a Fine way to Honor Your Dad! That is one great looking ‘Vair, save the turbo for the future. Best Wishes for a safe adventure, Carp.

 

Have a great trip. My condolences to all your family.

 

So sorry to hear of your dad’s passing. Praying for you and all other family members in this time. I can appreciate your desire to drive one of his cars home and pray for a safe and fun trip. I am sure there are plenty of folks along the route that could help if you did encounter any issues.

 

What an awesome tribute to your dad. This is probably THE absolute best tribute that I’m sure is making him smile right now.
Maybe you could post your route and timeframe for the big trip, and I’m sure all HAMB’ers along the way will help your dad keep an eye on your safe journey. God Speed!

 

RIP on Dad.. Lost mine last Oct... If you need help along the I-17 send a PM.. Hope you have a good trip.

 

RIP Dad. Nice Corvair. I also flew to pick up Dad's car, 427 Caprice. Only 800 miles though, and still on the road.

Safe travels.

 

Sorry for your loss, good trip ahead, making memories.






Bones

 

Wow. @blowby I always loved those big block brutes! Saw one with a console,gauges and 4 gear once. It was a battle cruiser