New Member from Ohio

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tcolvinOH

Not-quite-so-new-guy
Aug 4, 2013
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Hello to all from Ohio, where its currently 71F (Did I miss out on summer?)

I just recently decided that I wanted a fun project to occupy what little free time I have and to clear my mind of work related things. As such, I decided that an 80's style Oldsmobile would be right up my alley. I actually owned an 82 Buick Regal about 12 years ago that I absolutely adored, even though it was a clunker. It leaked more oil than it burned fuel. However, for having the 3.8L V6, it was a fun car to drive. Since I decided to go down the path of a "fun" car, I figured a car from the same era would be ideal. With all of that in mind, last week I became a proud owner of a black 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Brougham with maroon interior, equipped with the 5.0L V8 (307) engine. This car also has the pillow top seats, which are incredibly comfortable, power locks and windows and a mostly functioning AM/FM radio (however, the tape deck does not appear to work). The car handles incredibly well and appears as if it was mostly well maintained, mechanically. Aesthetically, the car is not without issue, especially for its age. There are several spots of rust (albeit small) throughout the car, as well as a couple of missing pieces of trim and brake lights that are not currently working. Since it was purchased as is, I have very little history on the car as far as tuneups, but after checking the oil and coolant, it looks like it needs some maintenance.

Overall, its a pretty slick ride. Im super excited to resurrect an old hobby of mine and turn this car into an even better ride. About 3 days into owning the car, the starter went out and I was able to get under the car and easily replace it. This only solidified my desire to turn this car into something better than it currently is, even though the starter was not planned. As of this moment, my current tasks are to tune it up (oil, filter and air filter are already purchased and on deck for installation), repair the turn signal switch (which I believe is what is causing my brake light issue), and overhaul the entertainment system (separate post coming for that).

As far as me personally, I work in the IT field for a software development company in NE Ohio (which I probably spend far too much time). I would like to say that Im mechanically inclined, but it has been several years since I've had to spend any serious time or effort under the hood (or undercarriage) of a car. It was a necessity that turned into a hobby that then was put on the back burner for more pressing matters.

I look forward to talking with you, learning from you, and I appreciate your patience in advance. In the meantime, here are some pictures of the car for your viewing pleasure. http://imgur.com/a/1eKUG

Let the games begin!
 
It's mostly in need of cosmetic changes. I need to take some additional pictures but there are some minor rust spots all over the car and about a bazillion scratches that need fixed. The vinyl on the roof and back window also needs touched up a bit. The interior could also use an overhaul. I'm looking to swap motors at some point, probably with a 383.

As it currently sits, the car is in wonderful shape for its age and was decently cared for, as far as I can tell. I definitely would like to get it into show shape, but having some power under the hood isnt a bad thing either.
 
yeah my 86. i bought from a neighbor about 8 years ago. the car came from thee south.it had the 307 in it,i was told by him the head gasket was bad. i replaced the front pass fender had a small dent in it,i put 403 in it. i am in the process of redoing the interior,putting buckets and council. then just need paint. but looks like you got a good one to redo.
 
tcolvinMI,

Welcome to a great site! You've come to the right place for what'll cure your cutty's problems (all though they seem small!).

Doug
 
wonderboy24:

Nice!

One of the features that makes the Brougham trim stand out are the pillow top seats. They're definitely worn, so Im considering just having them redone at some point. As far as a center console, I did find a unit that would just lay in the center of the seat, rather than changing out the seats completely. Although, I can certainly understand the appeal of having more of a center console.

Did you completely rebuild the 403? Unfortunately, my understanding of some of the different engine offerings for these cars is lacking a bit right now. Any particular reason why you chose the 403? Was it a difficult swap?
 
Doug:

Thanks! So far, the issues seem to be relatively small. I thought they were even smaller until I had to replace the starter last week, but overall, that wasn't bad. I need to invest in a service manual for the car, since documentation seems to be sparse (both the Chilton and Haynes manuals are pretty vague). A lot of the issues I have to deal with are a result of the car being almost 30 years old and driven as a daily driver. But as a project car, I don't think I could have asked for a better canvas to start with. The car was originally advertised with the 3.8L v6, but found out when I arrived at the dealership that it had the 307 and I bought it for under the asking price, so realistically, the entire experience has been good so far. I don't have a lot of information on the maintenance history of the car. After checking the fluids, it is definitely in need of a tune up, which I'm planning on starting this week with an oil change and an air filter replacement. I'll probably short change the oil after about 1500 miles and invest in a better air filter down the road (looking at a K&N). At this point, Im just considering short changing everything to get the systems all cleaned up. I'm also looking into a full stereo upgrade, which I've posted about in the Cutlass board. Struggling a bit for info there, but thats part of the fun.

Thanks for the welcome!
 
yes the engine was rebuild,didnt need to be. the reason i choose the 403. i had a 81 cutlass about 16 years ago with the same 403.i sold the car 81 to my brother in law he was going to stick it in another gbody but never did,the 403 is a 77. i sold him the car for 250.00 and got the motor back for 250.00. when i had it in the 81 i could smoke the tires for ever lol. so i knew what the engine had,i had a local shop rebuild it for me,it is board 40 over.mild cam. new flat top pistons.new crank.older 350 heads everything was replaced.i only have about 400 miles on the engine.as far as the swap it was pretty easy. also have turbo 350 with shift kit,3200 stall converter. am supposed to be getting new paint in September. so trying to get the interior done before then. it is a father son project. my son will be getting it not to long after it is finished,then i find another project.
 
Welcome aboard! Where at in Ohio are you located? Im in the Sandusky/Bellevue area myself.
 
83MONTESS:

In the Akron/Canton area.
 
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