Hello all So looking at a potential set of wheels for the summer, and it's not one I've seen too often. Found a '46 caddy convertible for sale that's not a king's ransom for once, but if there's one thing I'm not knowledgeable on, it's luxury cars. especially pre 60's. I mean they look good, but as for what to look for and what to avoid, I'm a novice. So for anyone here that's well versed on caddy's that look like they came right out of a GodFather movie, I'd like to hear your opinion of what I should be looking for, and what are big red flags, and well, what your experience has been owning one (or close to it.) For interest, this is the honey-do list that this set of wheels needs, according to the owner. And of course, pictures, because everyone loves pictures.
There's nothing wrong with an early Hydro, tough old transmission. And the expense of rebuilding one isn't bad if you do it yourself; they're not that hard to work on...
Looks nice. I'd do the standard used car deal, try everything at least once. Another generic thing I'd do is go over any convertible old enough to drink with a paint thickness gauge to check for rust and repairs. The list provided attest to some of this. I'd also ask who works on it, if the sale includes history, manuals extra parts, etc that most long term owners would acquire.
Good stuff at good prices can languish, but often is snapped up. Time to get your finances in order, sharpen your focus, research those that interest you, and be ready to inspect and jump. I would NOT jump until you have done due diligence on the car and are certain it meets your standards and you know how much it's worth, what issues there are and what it's going to cost to fix. Check you local title and registration situation, too. If casting a wide net, look into transport also. Lots of pitfalls out there. Knowledge is power.
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