Buick questions from a Ford guy

I got a call recently from an old friend who wants to know if I have any suggestions for what to do with his uncle's "old Buick". Turns out to be a 61 Electra 225 4 door, which hasn't been started or left the garage in about 30 years. Of course I told him that I'm interested in seeing the car. I haven't seen the car yet, but he says it has some rust (we're in New England), dents, and about 100K miles. So I don't think it's a hidden gem, I'm thinking in terms of it being a donor vehicle for a future rod project. I'm hoping to see the car this coming weekend.

My questions:
- Did all '61 Electras come with the 401 nailhead?
- Is the ****** ok to use, or is a swap to a later trans recommended?
- Would this car have aluminum brake drums?
- Is there any value or interest in the rest of the car (trim, etc)?

thanks!
Rick Wilson
65LTD

 

In 61 the Electra was top of the line so it should have the 401, look at the air cleaner it will give the torque rating, all the 364's were 2 bbl carb.

The Dynaflow was the only automatic. I don't remember if they still had torque tube driveshafts in 61, (I was only 1 year old). The Turbo 400 is a much better trans, available with "switch pitch convertor", but was only built for Nailheads about three years. (My ex was a Buick user in the early days).

There were several different styles of finned aluminum drums used over the years. This one should have them, unless a brake job was done and cast drums were installed (common in "salt" states).

There is always interest in trim pieces, try one of the many Buick clubs or list on Evil-Bay.