The Slowmobile

[brokenracecar]

I have just acquired a 1986 Cutlass Supreme Brougham. It's nothing special, 88,000 original miles, boat anchor 307, column shift, bench seat.

I'm not sure if you gentlemen are aware but the 307 is a pig. So naturally, me being the type of guy I am, I've located a 455 and it's about to get dropped in. It's also getting a mini-spool.

Once all of this is done, I'm sending it off to be painted and then to find wheels I like. After that, it's getting some minor interior upgrades and then, I'll be on to another classic muscle car build.

 

[pontiacgp]

Are you not going to remove the body to strengthen the frame and change the body bushings to handle the power? All the suspension bushings should also be changed and brakes upgraded. I assume you are only going to race the car if you are putting in a mini-spool.

 

[brokenracecar]

I'm arguing with myself on what it's going to be. I want it to be a street rod that is capable of going to the track and is still fun to drive. I picked it up half done already, the gentleman who started this car passed away and it was left in his shop untouched for a few years before his daughter finally decided to sell his collection.

I looked at upgrading brakes but I feel like they will do fine..for now anyway. I know there are certain 3rd gen and monte rear ends that are a direct swap with posi and have rear disc brakes but I haven't found any local so I'm going to let it go for now.

 

[pontiacgp]

Just remember that you can add power and other bolt on upgrades but if you don't have a solid platform the car will never do what you expect and it may be dangerous. All the rubber bushings on your car are 30 years old and have passed their life expectancy. Plus you don't know what condtion the frame is in, personally I would not want to upgrade a car unless I knew what I was dealing with.

 

[CaliWagon83]

I'm not sure if you gentlemen are aware but the 307 is a pig.

You clearly haven’t lived with a 2-bbl 3.8 V-6 and 2.73 rear. 🤣

 

[brokenracecar]

Just remember that you can add power and other bolt on upgrades but if you don't have a solid platform the car will never do what you expect and it may be dangerous. All the rubber bushings on your car are 30 years old and have passed their life expectancy. Plus you don't know what condtion the frame is in, personally I would not want to upgrade a car unless I knew what I was dealing with.

The frame is in great shape. The car was being restored when the man passed. Judging by his receipt book I'd say he had replaced most of the bushings.
Like I said though, it's just a street rod for now. Going to cruise the streets, may make a few 9 second passes (if that) and burn some tires. If I decide to go any further with it then I'll be upgrading suspension, rear end, trans, mounts and bushing, ect.

 

[brokenracecar]

You clearly haven’t lived with a 2-bbl 3.8 V-6 and 2.73 rear. 🤣

You're correct, I wouldn't have ever given it a chance. lol 🤷‍♂️

 

[Longroof79]

I think running a mini spool on the street is flirting with disaster. Just my opinion.

Steve's right, I would do a thorough upgrade on this car....brakes, suspension, etc, to be able to accommodate the additional power of the 455.

Oh, and welcome aboard! Be safe out there.

 

[brokenracecar]

If I'm going to get a locker I might as well throw a Ford 9" under it.

 

[michmalibuman]

Welcome,Be safe and have fun and send pictures. 😎