Anyone recognize this car? Just bought it out of central Kansas. Looks like a 60’s build. Had an early Pontiac in it.
Very unique chrome front suspension on there, I wonder how well it worked? Should be identifiable by that, I'm sure it's one of a kind. What is the rear suspension?
I think when guys use quarter eliptic springs as a links ( as in a four link) as well as a spent they sometimes don’t use a shackle
Given that it's set up with quarter-elliptics, I wouldn't worry about that so much as the difference in the center of the suspension pivots between the radius rods and the springs themselves (that act as a front suspension component). If the front suspension doesn't tear itself apart first, the caster is going to change radically as the suspension goes through it's normal travel. I see it has what looks like cowl steering as well. I think there's a reason it's sitting in a barn without an engine.
The axle is being controlled by the bones , radius rod whatever, the spring is being used as a spring , without shackles to allow free movement , it will bind . The caster is not being controlled by the spring ( unless it overpowers the radius rod .
I won't join in on the engineering side but it appears to be an era common home interpretation of what "might" work. I will say, like many from back in the day it could be one loose bolt away from disaster. Sure hope ALL the bolts have some form of locknut on them when finished.
Good to see another early T-Bucket. I'll add a comment on the front suspension design. You have heard what to look at and check carefully. I will mention that most Ts only have 3-4 inches of travel, so while things may not be freely moving and have different angles, it's not as crucial as a long travel setup. Does it show signs of road use, or more like an unfinished garage dweller? It looks like it was wired and plumbed, so it probably was taken around the block, at least. Can you share pics of the steering box and rear suspension too? That front end should be the main identifier, but more info is always good. What are your plans? Member for 15 years, only 36 posts, Hope to hear more.
I concur on all the concerns for the front end. Also agree that it likely didn’t see many miles. It is fully wired and looks to have been complete and drive-able at some point. As far as plans, not sure just yet. I need to determine what transmission will fit in the tunnel and go from there. (It is setup for a manual trans so I am a little concerned an automatic won’t fit under the floor). I have a 392 hemi with a 3 speed manual that might go. Good intuition on my 15 years and very few post. Been busy being a dad. Still love cars. Particularly like the old T-buckets from the 60s. They are cheap and a form of art. (I bought this T-bucket for $2000). I will post more pictures. It has some cool old stuff up underneath.
Glad to hear it. As far as a trans fitting, the floor is most likely plywood, although some were 'glass. Either way, clearance is a saw blade away. I'd hesitate on hacking until everything is checked out and a plan of end product firmly established. On desktop, you can just hover over the member's avatar and those stats show. I've been following T bucket threads for a while and got my own a year ago, so keep an eye out for new people. Don't worry, no cause to press stalking charges!
Is that the one that said no butterflies or shaft in the hat but the are available? Looks ok. I agree that it would be a driver.