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Posts: 2788
   
Location: USA - KY | 
I took my 1957 DeSoto Firesweep Sportsman (2-door, hardtop) off the road last June. Work on the car has slowly progressed since. After saving some dough for three years, I decided to just bite the bullet and get all of the "improvements" over with in one go, if I could.
I'm adding original power steering and power brakes systems, a new "Vintage Air" under-dash AC system, an original pattern "Code 516" upholstery, paint, radial tires, a hidden sound system, dual rear antennas, a whole boatload of trim, and other assorted extras. (I'm a self-admitted Bling Junkie, so whaddyagointodo?) Don't worry, it's not going to be a "Trailer Queen"; I love driving the car way too much for that.
Although the changes that I'm making won't be "original" to my car, most of them will be "correct" for a 1957 Firesweep, even if it isn't MY particular Firesweep. And some items will not be originally "correct" such as the swivel seats, AC, under-car exhaust, dual master cylinder, radial tires, brake light switch, and headliner. But, I'm trying!
Unfortunately, I am NOWHERE nearly as talented as most of you guys, so I'm having to hire others to perform most of the work for me. I get to work on some of the little tasks, but sometimes I think that the guys at the shop give me those little jobs just to keep me out from underfoot. I'm afraid that my talents don't come anywhere close to matching my raging enthusiasm.
Apparently, my main job is to work like a fiend to pay for it all!  I am also the official "Researcher" for all of the projects. I really enjoy that part of the resto.
My car was in great shape when I bought it in 2011. The previous owner had taken such good care of his beloved DeSoto for over twenty years, and now it's my turn to continue with the improvements that he had in mind for the car. He had the engine and tranny professionally rebuilt already, so that was a bonus. The car was originally black with white accents, back in '57. The original interior according to the cowl tag was "Code 564" (red and taupe vinyl/fabric). No one knows when the swivel seats were installed. As far as we can tell, the skirts were dealer installed in '57.
The FL and NDC members have been such a great help during the process, so thanks to all!
BTW...I'm having the time of my life!
Not great photos, but hopefully good enough to get the idea. I'll eventually be adding more photos.
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Edited by FIN ME 2014-04-13 2:02 PM
 (2011.JUST.BOUGHT.jpg)
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 2011.JUST.BOUGHT.jpg (145KB - 331 downloads)
2011.JUST.BOUGHT2.jpg (165KB - 358 downloads)
FIRSTDAYatSHOP.jpg (184KB - 352 downloads)
DASH.BEFORE.jpg (27KB - 366 downloads)
INTERIOR.BEFORE.jpg (134KB - 359 downloads)
DEC.2013.jpg (145KB - 363 downloads)
GET.EVERYTHING.OUT!.jpg (268KB - 356 downloads)
GET.EVERYTHING.OUT!2.jpg (259KB - 350 downloads)
GET.EVERYTHING.OUT!3.jpg (246KB - 378 downloads)
BATTERY.SHELF.NEEDS.REPLACING.jpg (206KB - 363 downloads)
PARTS.COMING.OFF&OUT.jpg (243KB - 344 downloads)
SEATS.OUT.jpg (199KB - 338 downloads)
HOLY.REAR.SHELF, BATMAN.jpg (226KB - 353 downloads)
PEEKABOO.jpg (180KB - 357 downloads)
SORTING.TRIM.jpg (207KB - 342 downloads)
SORTING.ROOF.TRIM.PIECES.jpg (192KB - 354 downloads)
CHROMELESS.IN.KY.jpg (194KB - 347 downloads)
MORE.TRIM.FOR.REFINISHING.jpg (161KB - 345 downloads)
YET.ANOTHER.BOX.OF.TRIM.FOR.REPLATING&POLISH.jpg (213KB - 339 downloads)
NEW.STEERING.WHEEL.BEFORE.jpg (195KB - 353 downloads)
NEW.PB.PS.SYSTEMS.BEFORE.jpg (101KB - 358 downloads)
NEW.PB.PS.SYSTEMS.BEFORE2.jpg (112KB - 343 downloads)
POOR.OLD.STEERING.COL.SEALS.jpg (132KB - 341 downloads)
PRIMED.ENGINE.COMP.jpg (207KB - 361 downloads)
PRIMED.ENGINE.COMP.NEW.PANEL.COMING.FROM.BIGM.jpg (145KB - 363 downloads)
ENGINE.WORK.IN.PROGRESS.jpg (243KB - 348 downloads)
ENGINE.WORK.IN.PROGRESS2.jpg (219KB - 348 downloads)
NEW.PB.PS.ENGINE.PAINT.jpg (234KB - 343 downloads)
NEW.ENGINE.PAINT.WRONG.PULLEY.jpg (212KB - 341 downloads)
STRIPPED.SWIVEL.SEATS.jpg (198KB - 345 downloads)
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VINTAGE.FABRIC.FROM.SMS.jpg (315KB - 375 downloads)
SWIVEL.SEAT.BACK.jpg (225KB - 356 downloads)
NEW.UPHOLSTERY.SWIVEL.SEATS.jpg (201KB - 338 downloads)
RECHROMED.REAR.BUMPER.EXTENSIONS&ROCK.GUARDS.jpg (179KB - 364 downloads)
NEW.UNDER.DASH.AC.UNIT.jpg (90KB - 365 downloads)
RECORD.PLAYER.LIKE.THIS.ONE.jpg (184KB - 358 downloads)
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Veteran
Posts: 117
Location: Kättilstorp Sweden | Wonderful job you have done to your car. Really nice.
Magnus |
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Location: Sweden | I second that! Show us some green exterior pics, Rosy! |
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Posts: 2120
Location: atlanta | In a word, WOW!! |
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Expert
Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
Thanks, to my Swedish friends!
Exterior is still in primer for the most part. I'm waiting for the engine work to be closer to being finished prior to painting.
But here's some more shots:
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EARLIER.IN.2013.jpg (233KB - 335 downloads)
EARLIER.IN.2013.B.jpg (222KB - 360 downloads)
DASH.OUT.jpg (195KB - 356 downloads)
ENGINE.IN.PROGRESS.jpg (212KB - 350 downloads)
ENGINE.IN.PROGRESS2.jpg (204KB - 343 downloads)
ENGINE.IN.PROGRESS3.jpg (204KB - 342 downloads)
ENGINE.IN.PROGRESS4.jpg (242KB - 344 downloads)
NEW.PAINT.jpg (136KB - 331 downloads)
STARTING.ENGINE.FIT2.jpg (194KB - 338 downloads)
STARTING.ENGINE.FIT.jpg (223KB - 343 downloads)
TRUNK.PAINT.jpg (180KB - 367 downloads)
BACK.FROM.THE.BLOCKERS.jpg (183KB - 355 downloads)
BACK.FROM.THE.BLOCKERS2.jpg (150KB - 340 downloads)
OLD.HEADLINER.jpg (209KB - 345 downloads)
OLD.HEADLINER2.jpg (146KB - 336 downloads)
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Board Moderator & Exner Expert 10K+
Posts: 13050
 
Location: Southern Sweden - Sturkö island | Looks really like the car has a steady good progress Rosy - keep it up and keep us posted. Is the ARC record changer working? |
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Expert
Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY | fenix - 2014-04-13 12:40 PM
In a word, WOW!!
Thanks, fenix!
It's been a real journey.
I've been driving the poor painter crazy, "...paint that bolt, but leave that one bare...paint that little spring blue, but paint the big ones red...strip the paint off that bracket...", and on and on and on with the details!
I think that by now, he's entirely lost the will to live.
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Expert
Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY | wizard - 2014-04-13 1:04 PM
Looks really like the car has a steady good progress Rosy - keep it up and keep us posted. Is the ARC record changer working?
Thanks, wizard!
I got the ARC from a super nifty, fellow FL member. It had been over-hauled mechanically, and re-chromed as well. Good thing the car has a wide dash for both the under-dash AC unit, and the ARC record changer. 
BTW - the photo above is not the ARC that I have, just a photo of one that looks just like it, except the one I have has "perfect" chrome.
Edited by FIN ME 2014-04-13 1:19 PM
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Expert
Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
Here's my concept drawing of how my car should look when it's all done - as best as I can manage using a computer to alter an original ad from 1957.
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Edited by FIN ME 2014-04-13 1:31 PM
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ROSYSCAR.jpg (65KB - 330 downloads)
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Extreme Veteran
Posts: 500
Location: Upper East Tennessee | Rosy, that looks WONDERFUL! It's a lot of hard work and headache but that Firesweep looks awesome! I'm glad you kept the swivel seat. The upholstery looks great on it! I wish mine was this far along. Thanks for giving us an update!!! |
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Expert
Posts: 2905
Location: little rock, AR | The "Ole Bling Mo-chine", Nice !!!
Edited by oldwood 2014-04-13 1:59 PM
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Expert
Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY | tnlowrider - 2014-04-13 1:45 PM
Rosy, that looks WONDERFUL! It's a lot of hard work and headache but that Firesweep looks awesome! I'm glad you kept the swivel seat. The upholstery looks great on it! I wish mine was this far along. Thanks for giving us an update!!!
And thanks for providing me with the PS, PB's and steering wheel and column, Tim!
Couldn't have done it without ya!
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Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY | oldwood - 2014-04-13 1:58 PM
The "Ole Bling Mo-chine", Nice !!!
LOL - yep, my goal is, that it can be seen from outer space!
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Expert
Posts: 1906
Location: Ontario, Canada | A great restoration of a wonderful solid car. Well done Rosy.
Greg |
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Veteran
Posts: 279
Location: Klein, TX | Rosy, your concept is fantastic. I hope all goes smoothly with the rest of your project. It will surely be a hit wherever you drive it. I look forward to reading more progress reports and viewing the great pictures. |
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Elite Veteran
Posts: 673
Location: Malung, SWEDEN | Thumbs up!  |
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Expert
Posts: 1384
Location: Ocala, Florida | I love your car it looks so good! I have always loved the Firesweep for its Dodge nose never liked the big body cars (same way with the Chryslers). I hope you dont mind but your car is my computer background lol. Nice work! Please keep us posted!
Edited by The Chrysler Kid 2014-04-13 7:09 PM
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Expert 5K+
Posts: 7207
Location: Victoria, BC, on Vancouver Island, Canada | Looking good - I'm looking forward to seeing the finished product! |
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Elite Veteran
Posts: 1159
Location: D-70199 Heslach | Rosy, the concept looks great, I think the final result will looks better than great. |
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Member
Posts: 34
Location: nova scotia | Looks great Rosy Nearly the same paint as my 59. Will try to post Pict of my rad shroud. Will we see you in Ft Wayne? Barrie
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GetAttachment[7].jpg (9KB - 314 downloads)
GetAttachment[7].jpg (9KB - 346 downloads)
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Member
Posts: 34
Location: nova scotia | Try again
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GetAttachmentQS2XWY2C.jpg (11KB - 343 downloads)
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Expert
Posts: 3155
Location: NY & VT | Didn't realize, or more likely forgot, that color change was part of the process... that's a fabulous combination!!! Love it!!!
What a BEAUTIFUL car! Gives me inspiration to try and get going again. |
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Expert
Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
Thanks, guys, for all of the nice comments!
It's a work in progress but hopefully my car will be all done within a few months, and then I can enjoy driving it this summer.
I've missed driving the car a LOT.
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Expert 5K+
Posts: 7807
Location: Williams California | Looks fantastic, Rosy!!!!! |
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Exner Expert 19,174 posts. Neil passed away 18 Sep 2015. You will be missed, Neil!
Posts: 19146
Location: bishop, ca | Rosy, if the driver's door A-post area hasn't already been pre-painted: the VIN tag is very (TOO, actually...) easy to pop off
from the dog leg pillar.
I can be easily re-positioned after the pillar is painted, and can be epoxied back onto that pillar.
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Posts: 1488
Location: New Castle PA | Neil, I didn't know you were that kinky! LOL! |
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Expert
Posts: 1508
Location: new york | WOW! outstanding Job! OI can't wait to see her finished! HAPPY MOTORING & Keep us posted! Victor. |
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Expert
Posts: 1493
Location: Jamaica Plain, MA | That's great Rosy! I think you, Bill, Tim, Ed and I may make the 57 Sweep famous. Didn't know about the color change! Cool! Mine is off to the paint booth in June. Only a year behind. |
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Expert
Posts: 1493
Location: Jamaica Plain, MA | Lose the 2bbl though!!!!! Xo |
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Expert
Posts: 1906
Location: Ontario, Canada | I agree. Go with a WCFB. You will get much better mileage!
Greg |
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Expert
Posts: 1906
Location: Ontario, Canada | I agree. Go with a WCFB. You will get much better mileage!
Greg |
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Exner Expert 19,174 posts. Neil passed away 18 Sep 2015. You will be missed, Neil!
Posts: 19146
Location: bishop, ca | You can say that again.
Unfortunately, that is, also, not true.
You will get the best mileage with a 2-bbl carb 24/7/365 over a 4-bbl carb
Of course, your best PERFORMANCE will be given by the 4-bbl carb, but that was not the question.
Regardless of the carb type, you should have your car's distributor and its vacuum advance be
custom-tuned to your engine and its carburetor, to maximize both the engine's economy and its
performance capabilities.
Edited by d500neil 2014-04-16 1:50 AM
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Expert
Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY | d500neil - 2014-04-14 4:48 PM
Rosy, if the driver's door A-post area hasn't already been pre-painted: the VIN tag is very (TOO, actually...) easy to pop off
from the dog leg pillar.
I can be easily re-positioned after the pillar is painted, and can be epoxied back onto that pillar.
Good advice, Neil! The VIN tag and cowl tag were both removed and preserved for reinstallation after painting. Even though my cowl tag "numbers" won't match anymore, it's still nice to have the original tags in place.
Thank you for the very nice comments, guys!
It took FOREVER for me to decide what colour to paint the car. I must have changed my mind twelve times! I love black cars, but I got worn out trying to keep that black paint looking its best.
So I'll paint the roof and sweep black, as a nod to the car's original black paint, and the body will be painted using a 1957-only, Firesweep-only (as far as DeSotos go) colour called "Mist Green". (It might have been used on Dodges - no one seems to really know for sure.)
I have never seen a Desoto painted using "Mist Green" before, either on the body, or on the roof and sweep. I've seen some photos of DeSotos that were painted in a colour that was close, but no cigar...usually "Willow Green", a '58 colour. Documentation that I've found seems to indicate that "Mist Green" was used for '57 Firesweeps that were painted in one, solid colour, and without the accent colours on the roof and sweep. But I am now convinced, as are many "older" car fellas, that you could order a 1957 Mopar in any darn colour combo that you wished to, using any of the colours available that year for that model. Could be wrong, but what the heck.
Anyway, "Mist Green" seems to be one rare colour for '57 'Sweeps as far as I can tell after three years of trying to find one painted that colour. I have found none. I asked Chrysler if they had any info regarding paint colours statistics, but they do not for '57 Firesweeps.
I have a vintage, 1957 DeSoto Dealer's Fabric/Vinyl/Paint sample book that has huge paint chips, and my painter matched the paint very well indeed to the sample. I'm really liking the colour, esp. with the black accents. It looks a little less "there" in sunlight, which calms the green down a tad.
Glad other folk's are liking it too - I respect youz-guyz' opinions!
Edited by FIN ME 2014-04-16 5:43 PM
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Expert
Posts: 3155
Location: NY & VT | Rosy I saw an all Mist Green '57 single headlight 4 dr sedan 'Sweep once, it had dog dishes, minimum chrome, PF not TF trans, no radio! A real stripper car, and very cool, this was back in the 80s when I still lived in rural N central Maryland. Had bad rust but the old geezer at the wheel was still using it as a daily driver!
Agree with Neil, the 2 bbl will get better gas mileage, the old Mobil Economy Run results bore that out at the time. And that's why Ma Mopar put 'em on the lower model in the line in the first place, their buyers were more economy than performance oriented. I intend to leave the 2 bbl on my 354 poly.
Edited by firedome 2014-04-16 11:17 AM
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Extreme Veteran
Posts: 440
Location: Vermont | Wow looks great. 1957 Desoto is one the best looking cars. Enjoy! It's going to look amazing when it's done. |
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Expert
Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
Thanks, lownslow!
firedome - that's so cool! I wonder if that old geezer is still driving his "Mist Green" car?!
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Expert
Posts: 1906
Location: Ontario, Canada | Rosy, it appears that the same colour ( or close to it) was called Misty Green for 57 Dodge. Check out the photos of my 57 Dodge CRL vert. In my FWLK art gallery thread. That was its original colour and right after we painted the body it looked so "blaaaa" we almost chose to repaint it in a different colour.
The best part was that as we trimmed the car out the better and better it looked!! It didn't matter whether we added SS trim, chrome, black or dark green bits, it just looked better at each stage. Your combination of black with the Mist green should be dynamite!!
I restored that car for me to keep and it sat in one of my trim bays for months as we slowly found time to complete it. My friend and repeat customer would call and kept throwing money at me to buy the car during those months. I finally caved and sold it to him. I never did get to drive it on the road!
The same opportunity will likely be offered to you! I restored a lot of these cars but it was the Misty green one that shed a whole different light on things.
You have fun times to look forward to.
Greg |
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Expert
Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
Thanks, LD3 Greg!
I wish you still had that car. It sounds great!
You're right about the "offers". I once had a guy offer to swap me his two 1960's and early 1970's (somewhere) Mustangs for my DeSoto. I gracefully declined.
I've seen the "Misty Green" Dodge paint colour that you mentioned, and it is DARN close to the "Mist Green". It indeed might have been the same colour, back in the day. The two colours look slightly different according to the vintage paint chips and actual paint samples that I've collected, BUT I hasten to say that those vintage paint chips come in a wide range of condition - some are more faded than others, some are quite yellowed with age, some have darkened by being kept in damp surroundings, and some are outright dirty and stained. So it can be difficult to compare paint chip to paint chip sometimes.
I've also noticed a green paint on some late 40's-early 50's (?) DeSotos that looks similar, but that colour looks more "seafoamy" to me, at least from the photos I've seen.
I wish I could have found a Firesweep that still had its original "Mist Green" paint in place. If I could have nabbed a sample of the original paint from a protected area on such a car, I could have likely matched the new paint for my car exactly. I think I have a really good match for the original colour with the paint that I'm putting on my car now, but I might never really know for sure. Plus, my car is going to have a highly polished finish, unlike the cars in 1957, so that alone might alter the colour's appearance somewhat.
Of course, there are paint companies out there that will supply "Mist Green" paint, but several that sent us samples missed the mark by a mile. I don't know where they get their colours sometimes. Maybe they just let a computer do the matching, which isn't always the best way to go. If I hadn't had that huge, original paint chip from my old dealer's paint book, I might have just gone with one of those colours, not realizing that what the paint company was sending me was in no way the correct colour. The painter at my shop was also a great help when it came to finding the right colour. He didn't lose patience with my fussiness. He rocks!
I've done my best to match the original "Mist Green" paint, but apparently no other '57 Firesweeps that were painted that colour originally are still in existence (as far as I know!) to confirm that I have. And even if they were in existence, their paint might now be faded or aged to an extent where it was no longer useful when it came to matching the colour. And so many original paint chips have been so altered by the ravages of time that few of them are of any real use. So, I just had to take my best stab at it.
You're sure right about the bright work. It will surround all of the areas on the car that will be painted black, and it will make the black paint really pop, which will ground and anchor that "slap happy" pastel, green paint. The bright work has a natural blue cast to it, and the black paint being used on my car really has a lot of very dark blue base paint in it, and blue (being the complementary colour of orange) will bring out the yellow of the new green paint, and calm the blue in the green paint. So the green paint will look less "vividly green" over all once the work on the car is all done. That's just my old interior designer colour theory gibberish, but I think it will work. LOL
Anyway, thank you for the kind words of encouragement!
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Expert
Posts: 3967
Location: DFW, TX | FIN ME - 2014-04-13 12:12 PM
Here's my concept drawing of how my car should look when it's all done - as best as I can manage using a computer to alter an original ad from 1957.
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Rosy, I felt like I just had to help you out here... lol
 (57-DeSoto_Firesweep_Sprtsmn.jpg)
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57-DeSoto_Firesweep_Sprtsmn.jpg (411KB - 348 downloads)
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Elite Veteran
Posts: 827
Location: tailFinland | Looking good! |
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Board Moderator & Exner Expert 10K+
Posts: 13050
Location: Southern Sweden - Sturkö island | Great Danny! That shows Rosy's choice perfectly - it will be a great looking car!!!!!! |
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Expert
Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
That looks COOOOOL, 57burb! Thank you!
Add half a ton of bling, and it's perfect!
'
Now that I see your great drawing, I'm glad that I ordered new, reproduction rear light lenses. That green paint really makes those red lenses stand out!
Looks FAB!
I'm going to send my painter that pic for inspiration!
Edited by FIN ME 2014-04-17 4:40 PM
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Expert
Posts: 3155
Location: NY & VT | My cousin teaches Color Theory in the Art Dept at the local Com, College, and when we asked him for complementary color ideas for our Light Mint Green and Black tiled mid-50s bathroom, he came up with Pale Lavender walls & bath curtain -and it looks absolutely fabulous... so a 3 tone DeSoto maybe? ... Wow! |
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Expert
Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
Sounds pretty! Green and purple always seem to live well together if they are of similar tone/tint. The yellow in the green complements the purple, and the red in the purple complements the green. So they are two colours that seem to make each other pop but not in a jarring way, likely because the blue in both the green and purple ties the two colours together in a calming/cooling way, IMHO.
Your bathroom sounds cool!
As would a tri-colour DeSoto!
BTW - I did ask Chrylser if any '57 DeSotos were originally factory painted using three paint colours, and they stated that they had, "no records showing any tri-coloured '57 DeSotos leaving the factory.". Oh well...
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Edited by FIN ME 2014-04-18 6:08 PM
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Expert
Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
More photos - engine compartment is almost done. A bit more painting here and there, and the addition of a few more AC system hoses, some firewall rubber bits, and the new master cylinder, are among the finishing touches still needed.
Those two high pipes coming off the top of the AC are not staying in that configuration.
Sorry about the bad photos - still getting used to the new camera.
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ENGINECOMPART.AC.jpg (150KB - 320 downloads)
ENGINECOMPART1.jpg (164KB - 333 downloads)
ENGINECOMPART3.jpg (150KB - 353 downloads)
ENGINECOMPART5.jpg (188KB - 320 downloads)
ENGINECOMPART2.jpg (173KB - 341 downloads)
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Elite Veteran
Posts: 1120
Location: Brisbane, Australia | Coming along nicely Rosy. Love the way you've installed the A/C compressor- very neat! |
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Elite Veteran
Posts: 873
Location: ALABAMA, HEART OF DIXIE | FIN ME - 2014-04-13 11:14 AMAlthough the changes that I'm making won't be "original" to my car, most of them will be "correct" for a 1957 Firesweep, even if it isn't MY particular Firesweep. And some items will not be originally "correct" such as the swivel seats, AC, under-car exhaust, dual master cylinder, radial tires, brake light switch, and headliner. But, I'm trying! : )
Absolutly breathtaking....! I share your opinion of period correct but make it your own. My 61 Fury convertible will be all 61, but just a couple of additions and changes to suit me. ( I tried to order a new one .... was told they quit making Plymouths ....,especally 1961's).You don't see many surpentine belt driven generators ........ Nice job. |
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Location: Jamaica Plain, MA | Looks awesome Rosy! |
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Posts: 2634
Location: Minor Hill, TN | Very nice |
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Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
Thank you for the nice comments, guys and gals!
Found another photo. I know, I know...they just keep on comin'!
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Posts: 2596
Location: Upplands Väsby, Sweden | Super nice renovaiting at your Desoto
Looks so Good |
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Expert
Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
Thanks, Windsor59!
Here are even more photos of my car's engine compartment. I took them yesterday.
I realise that the photos are getting a bit repetitive, but the engine compartment is changing a little bit every day, and getting closer to completion! Yay!
Still a bit of painting and rubber bits needed for the engine compartment. The yellow tape is coming out, along with a few other temporary bits and pieces.
Wiring is next, then paint!
Hopefully the photos might be of use to anyone considering similar changes to their car.
The rebuilt master cylinder is in place. The power brake bellows will pull up and back a tad more, once they are fully secured in place, so there is more room above the master cylinder than it may seem by the photos.
Really nice work by the mechanic/fabricator with the fitment of the AC and hoses IMHO. That "Z"-shaped pipe-bending to the left of the front of the rad/AC condenser is nice. I think he has done a great job, and he has even stood up well with my never-ending fussiness, even if his left eye has started to twitch. Think I will kidnap him. I do take pie and doughnuts to the shop occasionally, just to keep his sugar levels up. I think he will be taking a long vacation after this.
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Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
BTW, don't know if anyone has noticed, but I have a four-belt pulley coming off of the front of the engine, where a two-belt pulley would do. Therefore, there are two empty, unused grooves on this pulley.
It works fine, but if anyone knows where I can get a two-belt pulley, I'd be grateful.
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Elite Veteran
Posts: 774
Location: Atlanta GA USA | Great looking car! Likes "NICE", lol. That guy in Williams CA would be a good place to look for a pully. Big M. I am a big fan of poly engines.
Where is the brake light switch? I noticed that dual m/c. Nice touch.
Edited by 1956DeS 2014-05-09 2:05 PM
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Veteran
Posts: 279
Location: Klein, TX | Excellent Rosy.... I need to get more info on your A/C compressor mounting system. I think I will be changing to a Sanden compressor. |
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Elite Veteran,, James Passed away March 2021, He will be Missed
Posts: 1028
Location: Melbourne, Australia | Your car is looking very nice rosy . |
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Posts: 2634
Location: Minor Hill, TN | The more photos the merrier |
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Location: Parts Unknown | FIN ME - 2014-04-17 6:05 AM
It took FOREVER for me to decide what colour to paint the car. I must have changed my mind twelve times! I love black cars, but I got worn out trying to keep that black paint looking its best.
So I'll paint the roof and sweep black, as a nod to the car's original black paint, and the body will be painted using a 1957-only, Firesweep-only (as far as DeSotos go ) colour called "Mist Green". (It might have been used on Dodges - no one seems to really know for sure. )
I have never seen a Desoto painted using "Mist Green" before, either on the body, or on the roof and sweep. I've seen some photos of DeSotos that were painted in a colour that was close, but no cigar...usually "Willow Green", a '58 colour. Documentation that I've found seems to indicate that "Mist Green" was used for '57 Firesweeps that were painted in one, solid colour, and without the accent colours on the roof and sweep. But I am now convinced, as are many "older" car fellas, that you could order a 1957 Mopar in any darn colour combo that you wished to, using any of the colours available that year for that model. Could be wrong, but what the heck.
Anyway, "Mist Green" seems to be one rare colour for '57 'Sweeps as far as I can tell after three years of trying to find one painted that colour. I have found none. I asked Chrysler if they had any info regarding paint colours statistics, but they do not for '57 Firesweeps.
I have a vintage, 1957 DeSoto Dealer's Fabric/Vinyl/Paint sample book that has huge paint chips, and my painter matched the paint very well indeed to the sample. I'm really liking the colour, esp. with the black accents. It looks a little less "there" in sunlight, which calms the green down a tad.
Glad other folk's are liking it too - I respect youz-guyz' opinions!
==========================================
As a committed fan of the seafoam greens with my Plaza, I completely understand the attraction.
I like the period-unique pastels, and in a contemporary sense, am drawn to the unusual. Few car
guys like the light green shades, preferring to go for macho red or other colors LONG before they'd
consider "Buzzard Puke" Green. Maybe it's the A.D.D. ? .... but seeing the same cars or colors gets
real old, real fast for me.
I am interested to hear your decision making process that landed you at Mist Green, as opposed to
the many other also good color options they had.
As a kid, we moved to a farm about 5 miles out of Kirkland in 1969. In a draw not far from the house,
a neighbor had bushed an early 50's Chevy sedan over the edge in a fit of frustration (he told us so) when
it would not run. It was that similar light yellow-green. I had previously thought seafoam type greens
were about the ugliest color one could ever put on a car, and this one really set that thinking in stone for
me.
But fast forward through the 70's, and the quaint-i-tude and character of finned cars and related colors
and such began to sink in, and it wasn't long before that green started to look appealing, if only because
it was period-unique and was becoming more and more rarely seen.
It must have been about 1980 that I spotted the soft green Plaza that really kicked off my affection for
this color. Ray's Auto Wrecking was opened in 1945 and I doubt he ever crushed much out until the 80's,
stacking cars sometimes five deep in giant blocks of 20 x 40 or more cars.
I wasn't really interested in Mopars at the time, and was on the bottom of a stack, pulling a very nice aqua
cloth interior out of a 60 Invicta, when I took a break from the work to take a sip off my beer, and took a
deeper notice of a 58 Plymouth sedan in that charming puke green. For some reason, this one really clicked
for me. The short wheelbase and high, bubble-shaped roof. It was far from sexy, but had a cuteness to it
that was only accentuated more by the dog dish hubcaps and blackwalls against that soft green paint. I was
hooked.
Some cars wear it better than others, but it is such a pleasantly refreshing different color to the usual colors
we see too often.
BTW - back when I was at the helm of the NDC chapter in the NW, a man contacted me, interested in joining
our club. He had just purchased a nice, original 58 Firesweep 4HT in this soft yellow-green color with a black
top and sweep. It was a very striking car.
Sadly, but predictably, I later learned he had enthusiastically painted the car blue and white to "git rid of that
hideous green". 
Your car will be quite attractive in this color and will really stand out from all the others.
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Elite Veteran
Posts: 1120
Location: Brisbane, Australia | It will be like buying and driving a new car with all the familiarity of a pair of old comfortable shoes!
Please keep the photos coming Rosy. |
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Expert
Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
Thanks, guys and gals, for the compliments and encouragement! I will be sure to give my car a big hug from y'all next time I am at the shop. Yep, I hug my car...whaddyagointodo? I strongly suspect that I am not the only car-hugger here at this site...you know who you are! Anyway, you are all very nice to post such sweet comments.
1956DeS - there is a mechanical switch attached to the brake pedal itself. Nothing too fancy.
I have heard more than one 1957 Desoto owner complain that they didn't realise that their brake lights were not lighting up when the brake pedal was depressed until someone told them. So I guess that the original set up wasn't that reliable once it became old? I really wouldn't know for sure, because my car had this mechanical switch installed before I bought the car, but I am leaving it in place. (It doesn't seem to bother the show judges either, if showing your car is something that you do.)
Doctor DeSoto - regarding the decision-making process that brought me to choosing the "Mist Green" body colour,
Hooo-Boy! What an ORDEAL. Of all of the decisions that I had to make during the resto of my car, choosing the paint colours was by far the most difficult. It was a loooooong process, as you can see below...and likely rather boring to read about...but here ya go!
I first decided to limit myself to only the paint colours originally available to the '57 Firesweep, as I hoped to keep the car as "correct/original" in as many ways as I possibly could, for the make and model year of my car, despite the plans that I had for the installation of a few modern "improvements". (To be honest, I prefer the paint colour choices that were available to the '58's, esp. that "lavender" colour.) I really do love the look of black cars, but I had decided long ago that my car's black paint was going to be way too much work for me to keep looking as good as I would want it to be as the years went by. So a colour change was therefore going to have to be part of my car's future.
I mentioned that I am lucky enough to own a vintage, '57 DeSoto dealer's paint/fabric book that has very large paint chips which all seem to be rather unchanged by the ravages of time. So my next step was to go through all of the paint chips for the Firesweep, comparing and contrasting, trying to see what colours looked best with others, over and over and over again. Yikes, there were so many colour combinations available to a two-toned car! I had decided that whatever colours I chose, that I was determined to make myself happy, and to pick what I liked best over all.
During the two NDC conventions that I had attended, I noticed that the '57 and '58 DeSotos that had roof/sweep colours that were darker than the body of the car, looked more anchored to the ground, and even longer and lower than those with the lighter roof/sweep colours - at least they appeared that way to me (but that might just be me ). I liked that look, so I decided to paint the roof/sweep darker than the body for those reasons. I liked the way that black made all of the other colours pop, so I decided that the roof/sweep would therefore be black, plus I liked the idea of keeping some part of the car black as a way to sort of honour the car's original body colour...kind of. I think I can deal with keeping a black roof clean, instead of a whole, black car. I knew that adding AC to the car would help to offset any rise in cabin temperatures that a black roof can sometimes cause (along with a lot of roof insulation. ).
During the endless shuffling of the paint chips, I kept coming back to the "Mist Green" colour as being my favourite colour, especially when paired with black. I just really liked the impactful combo, and the way those two colours played off of each other. Besides, green is my favourite colour, especially lighter shades of green and yellow-green.
I decided to not paint the body of the car white, because I thought that I might be back where I started, constantly struggling to keep the car looking clean, here in the land of red mud, dust, and endlessly falling pollen...but maybe not. I toyed with the idea of painting the body of the car in either a light or dark gray, which would have been very tasteful IMHO, but I thought that I might struggle trying to keep those colours looking their best as well.
I am not really a red/pink/coral car kind of gal. I really do enjoy other folks' cars that are painted in those beautiful shades, but they just are not "me". Yellow and black would look striking too. I know of a gorgeous yellow and black '58, but again, yellow is just not "me". "Light Aqua" and black looks great too, but I live DEEP in the land of the Bel Air, and there is an aqua '57 Chevy around every corner, here in our part of the country. So I wanted a paint colour that would be unmistakably '57 Mopar.
So, I ended up choosing my favourite '57 Firesweep colour, "Mist Green". I just like the colour, esp. when paired with black. I admit that it is one minty, slap-happy colour, as I have called it. But to me, it is just SO 1950's, so it suits the era of my car...an over the top colour for an over the top car. There will be nothing subtle about my car's paint scheme once it is done, but I don't suppose that anyone would ever label any '57 Mopar as being "subtle".
Hopefully anyone driving a FL Mopar enjoys driving something different, as do I, so why not have a really different paint colour? It is a bonus to me that this "Mist Green" colour is also (apparently) unique among '57 Firesweeps. I didn't choose to paint my car using the colour for that reason, but I admit that I like the idea of having my car looking different from others of its kind. So much so, that I think that I might have to keep my old DeSoto dealer's paint/fabric book handy in the trunk for anyone who doubts that it is an original, '57 Firesweep paint colour, but what the heck? The doubters don't really bother me, but I don't want folks to think that I was careless in choosing my car's paint colours. I would rather be viewed as someone who wants to know as much as they can about their make and model of vintage car...a process that hopefully never ends.
I gotta say that the guys at the shop really seemed to hate the idea of painting my black car "Mist Green" when I first showed them the vintage paint chip last year. But once they saw the colour on the various parts of the car that are painted, along with the already-painted black roof, they all really loved it. I think they had difficulty imagining how the car would look when it was done, but now they are getting the idea, and are now fans of the colour combo. Visitors to the shop seem to love it too.
So that's the scoop, Doc. A bit "War and Peace" in its evolution, but...
Thanks for asking!
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Location: Parts Unknown | Your painters got an education in "period sophistication". Something they thought would look
terrible (as most people would) actually works in harmony with the also period-unique design
and feel to create an even stronger "period" feel for the larger package.
I believe most people are only tuned in to "impact" colors such as black and red and gold and
unable to grasp the more subtle sophistication of period elements in design to create a different
level of "impact". It is my argument against red cars. Is red a great color ? Of course it is. But
when you see it ALL THE TIME, it loses its impact to being common or ordinary. Whereas a less
"sexy" color like the Mist Green actually becomes more "sexy" BECAUSE it is less sexy, if that makes
any sense. You just never see it, and it works so well with the body styling, that it comes out as being
far more "impactful" than the commonly seen red. At least, to those who have any developed sense
of design.
I envy your advanced state of restoration and deliciously uncrusty sheetmetal. I will be back under
my car today welding in new metal to the wheel tub.
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Expert
Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
I know it's been a while, but a new job and vaca' have been keeping me occupied.
More pic's - there's been even more progress on my car since these photos were taken, but hopefully it's enough to get the idea...
Gotta flip that battery around - new cables waiting for installation too. A bit more fuss and bother and the engine will soon be all done. Hood going back on this week. Trunk all done.
Gotta tuck some hoses down, out of sight.
The dash pad is from Scandinavia. Fit really well! The edges around the vents have been heated and molded downward to take the shape of the inside edges of the vents. That didn't really have to be done, but still a really nice touch, methinks.
AC is a new Vintage Air, retro-look, under-dash unit. Nifty...and of course "cool".
It won't be long before I can get my old car back onto the roads! Yay!
BTW - anybody got a gas filler door spring they don't need?
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Elite Veteran
Posts: 1120
Location: Brisbane, Australia | G'day Rosy
that engine bay is as full as a state school hat rack!
it wont be long now
this car is a must see when I get to the States
great work!!!!!!!!
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Expert 5K+
Posts: 7402
Location: northern germany | oh wow thats a killer paint combination! i'd have painted it in the same colors! |
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Expert 5K+
Posts: 8443
Location: Perth Australia | Looks great Rosy
If they havnt got them yet, there are felt washers you can get that are supposed to stop your battery treminals corroding (hogwash, they still do), but, they will cover over the space around the battery posts for your t/topper cover
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Posts: 1488
Location: New Castle PA | Rosy, I think I already have an "August" calendar car for my website, but may I use yours for the November calendar? I think the picture of the car's backside is incredible! |
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Veteran
Posts: 279
Location: Klein, TX | Beautiful Rosy. You have really done a great job on your car. |
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Extreme Veteran
Posts: 500
Location: Upper East Tennessee | Rosy that looks incredible! |
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Posts: 4042
Location: Connecticut | Looks great ! Have you started her up yet ? Ron |
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Expert
Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
Thank you for all of the nice comments, guys! The shop crew has been working really hard, and they have put up with me and my never ending requests for this, that, and the other thing.
The final details are being worked out, and while it's exciting to be closing in on a completion date, those final details can drive a person totally mad. In fact, I am pretty sure that the guy who is currently installing the trim is quietly planning on converting his paint booth into a padded cell for the time when I finally drive him right around the bend.
Thank you for the tip about the felt washers, ttotired!
You can use any photos you wish, Ed!
Have not started the car yet, Ron. Tense times ahead! Augh, let's hope that all of those new systems can get along with each other.
Edited by FIN ME 2014-07-28 11:54 PM
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Expert 5K+
Posts: 7207
Location: Victoria, BC, on Vancouver Island, Canada | Rosy, the car is looking great! You should put up some pics of those nifty seat belts you got. ;-) |
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Extreme Veteran
Posts: 440
Location: Vermont | Can't wait to see it all done. The color combo is amazing! |
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Location: North Australia | Wow, what a car, and you did it your way! I will be studying the engine bay photos for hints on installing air in my own FL car.
I must admit, I don't hug my car, cant get my arms around it. I pretty much find an excuse to go into the shed to make sure I glance at it every morning before I go to work!
Love your work.
Steve. |
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Location: USA - KY | imopar380 - 2014-07-29 12:25 AM
Rosy, the car is looking great! You should put up some pics of those nifty seat belts you got. ;-)
Here is one of them, Flookerang and all.
Thanks for your help, Ian!
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Location: WHEELING,WV.>>>HOME OF WWVA | she's a real sweetheart Rosy ---------------------------------------------later |
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Posts: 2905
Location: little rock, AR | I know my stress level goes up the closer I get to heavy traffic and my cars are no beauty queens. I'm sure your stress level will also have highs and lows. I really like the personal touches that you've made. I think the last 2 cars that I've bought should quench my thirst for a while. Talking pastel colors around a group of men says it all, HA!!! The '59 Dodge that I just bought has 1 of those Merry pastel colors.lol Rosy, ya did good!!! |
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Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
Trim! I need more trim! LOL
The new radial tires are waiting to be installed.
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Thank you for the comments, guys!
Latest photo:
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Posts: 1384
Location: Ocala, Florida | !!!!!!!! She is gorgeous! I hope I have the chance to gawk at this car in person one day! |
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Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
Thanks, Randy!
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Posts: 781
Location: Montreal, Canada | Rosy, great car and super restoration. Where did you get those seat belts???
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Posts: 3155
Location: NY & VT | Just beautiful... one of the nicest '57s I've ever seen. |
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Posts: 7807
Location: Williams California | Rosy-
Your Desoto is beautiful!! All the hard work shows!
---John |
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Posts: 1159
Location: D-70199 Heslach | Rosy, - I'm a little jealous that you're going to be ready soon, great work ! |
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Location: The Mile High City | Purrrrfect! Way to go, Rosie! Once you change your avatar, we know it will be done!
It is like having a new car - all over again. |
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Expert
Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
Thanks for the nice comments, guys!
Rodger and Big M, you guys have helped me with car parts along the way, and I thank you both!
I'm also very grateful to everyone on this site who has helped me by very generously sharing their knowledge/advice/experience!
catman - I bought reproduction "vintage" style seatbelts and found a very gifted engraver who was able to engrave the Flookerang onto the seatbelt latches. Not easy to do as the chrome on these seatbelts is pretty thin and cheaply done. But they did turn out pretty darn nice, I must say. A few folks on this site have the original versions of these seatbelts which were apparently made in Canada. I am a self-admitted bling junkie and I just HAD to have these Flookerang seatbelts.
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Location: USA - KY | Lancer Mike - 2014-08-18 4:59 PM
Once you change your avatar, we know it will be done!
Hahaha! You read my mind...what there is left of it.
The "Resto-Fever" has sure taken its toll.
Edited by FIN ME 2014-08-18 5:08 PM
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Member
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| Who did your steering wheel ? i need mine to be done but my car is a 59 desoto |
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Posts: 2120
Location: atlanta | I have asked this before and never got an answer, do you need a CDL to drive a bemoth like that on the hiway? |
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Expert
Posts: 4589
Location: Northern New Jersey | Rosy,
She's Beautiful!
That is The Perfect Color for Your Fins.
Enjoy The Ride!
Steve |
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Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY | LAGTONE420 - 2014-09-11 7:28 PM
Who did your steering wheel ? i need mine to be done but my car is a 59 desoto
D&D Automobilia did a great job! Nice guy too! I have yet to install the new, wider chrome horn ring that fits this "deluxe" style of steering wheel for the '57 DeSotos.
http://danddautomobilia.com/Welcome.html
D&D Automobilia
2284 Reepsville Road
Lincolnton • NC 28092
(704) 748-3447
bob@danddautomobilia.com
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Expert
Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY | FIN_NV - 2014-09-11 8:55 PM
Rosy,
She's Beautiful!
That is The Perfect Color for Your Fins.
Enjoy The Ride!
Steve
Thanks, Steve! Hopefully we'll get a chance to park our great finned cars side by side at a car show some day!
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Location: USA - KY | fenix - 2014-09-11 8:31 PM
I have asked this before and never got an answer, do you need a CDL to drive a bemoth like that on the hiway?
Well...if by CDL, you mean "Clenched Derriere Langour", then yes!
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Expert
Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
Sorry, no new pic's to share - just a quickie update for anyone who may be curious and/or interested.
I've decided to leave my car in the warm and toasty shop until the spring of 2015 - that will give my shop crew a rest, but mainly I have run into a delay related to the door panels, so I may as well wait until they are ready to be installed before trying to get the car back onto the road. SMS is working on the door panels as I type...I hope. If they prove to be incapable, my upholsterer is more than up to the task, now that we have collected enough of the appropriate vinyl.
My new job has kept me busy too; too busy for me to find the time to become impatient to get out and drive my old car. So I will be content to leave the car where it is over the winter where it will be safe and sound, and I will have some extra time to fiddle around with some of the smaller tasks that still need to be completed.
The only larger tasks that need to be done are the final installation of the interior by my awesome master upholsterer, and the installation of the side window frames and windows, followed by a quick undercarriage once-over, and the installation of the new tires.
So I guess that I will have to be content with the occasional visit to the shop for a quick "visitation" and a "fin hug" or two.
Meanwhile, I will live vicariously through the posts of my fellow FL enthusiasts!
Needless to say, I am really looking forward to spring of 2015!
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Posts: 3155
Location: NY & VT | It's going to be worth the wait! ... I know all about that "living vicariously" thing, been doing it for years while waiting for that winning PowerBall ticket!
My event horizon is out to about 2022 at this point... if I'm still around! |
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Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
Nothing really exciting to report lately...but I did FINALLY find the time to finish restoring my car's cracked headliner bows.
Three of the four bows each had several, semi-circular pieces missing; probably from someone carelessly prying them off when they were cold and brittle.
I'm sure a lot of you have already done this kind of repair work - I filled the areas of missing plastic with 2-part epoxy, let it cure really well, and then sanded them back into shape.
The difficult part was making sure that the tiny channels on the back of the bows were free of extra epoxy once I was all finished...thank goodness for the Dremel.
A quick scuff, priming, and coat or two of nice shiny white paint, and they should be all ready to go! Yay!
Baby steps...
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Location: little rock, AR | FIN ME - 2014-08-16 11:53 AM
Trim! I need more trim! LOL
The new radial tires are waiting to be installed.
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Thank you for the comments, guys!
Latest photo:
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Edited by oldwood 2014-12-07 10:23 AM
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Posts: 2308
Location: The Bat Cave, Fairborn, OH | Awesome 1957 De Soto and I really like the color combination. I'm curious to know one thing though and that is did you keep the generator in your charging system or did you replace it with one of those alternators that are built inside generator cases to keep a period correct look about the engine bay? The photographs aren't clear on this point. For my part, I see nothing wrong in using an alternator as it is superior to the generator, especially if one uses one's FL car as a daily driver.
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Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
Thanks, guys, for the nice words.
58 DeSotos Rule - the original generator was replaced by a modern alternator that had a period-correct-ish case. For the life of me, I cannot recall if this case had to be painted black before it was installed or if it came that way? I think it already was black, come to think of it.
We saved the old, metal label from the original alternator and glued it onto the new alternator, just to make things look even more convincing...hopefully.
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Posts: 4654
| Beautiful job Rosy, I really like the color combo. You are a great inspiration to all on this site! |
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Posts: 2519
Location: central Illinois | Great job Rosy! Nice to see you invest and take the car to another level. Hopefully I'll see it in person at an NDC event in a few years. |
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Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
Well, whaddyaknow? Hell FINALLY froze over and I received my car's door panels from SMS. 
They look very nice.
And...I couldn't resist...I obtained a Benrus steering wheel clock from our good FL friend roadkillontheweb. It's SO Purdy! It looks brand new and it happily tick-tocks away, sitting here on the dining room side table. It sure doesn't seem to take much motion to keep it ticking. Our other good FL friend, Raffie has graciously offered to fabricate the mounting retainer for me.
Some folks might fuss that a 'Sweep couldn't have a steering wheel clock back in the day. But I figured that if a Firesweep could be ordered with the "deluxe" steering wheel (which it could), and the Benrus could be bought as an after-market item (which it could), then anyone whose Firesweep had a "deluxe" steering wheel could also order a Benrus clock to fit into that steering wheel...although I really doubt that many folks would have bothered back in 1957. But that's my story, and I'm sticking to it. (Any excuse for more bling, huh?)
The "small jobs" continue - could the end of the resto be in sight?
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Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
Check out the nifty FL Flookerang gas cap and Desoto dealership key cover thingy that I also got from our good FL friend roadkillontheweb.
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Posts: 3155
Location: NY & VT | Cool FL trinkets there!
So lets see them thar SMS panels! |
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Posts: 1488
Location: New Castle PA | Hey, Rosy, I have the same "key cover thingy", and use it to hold my Firedome keys...
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Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
Finally got some photos of my new door panels that arrived from SMS; they look really good.
The new headliner is in (perforated white vinyl), and the repairs that I made on the bows stood up to the reinstallation...whew!
The dash is almost all done; we have all of the parts ready to go.
There is now Dynamat in the ceiling, doors, floor, and trunk. So now no one can hear me screaming "yahoooo" when I'm driving.
The "new" day-night mirror was pieced together from several donor mirrors. (The glass in the mirror is really good, it is just reflecting the scratches that are on the counter top.)
So we plod on...but it's a lot of fun!
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Board Moderator & Exner Expert 10K+
Posts: 13050
Location: Southern Sweden - Sturkö island | Really interesting to follow this hih class restration! Keep them photos coming.... |
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Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
Thank you, wizard!
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Posts: 1886
| First time in this thread and that car is beautiful. 100% awesome |
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Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
Thank you, Mike!
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Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
Looking to have this resto done by early May...as in MAYbe...
Wish me luck! I've got a great team, so I'm optimistic.
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Posts: 3155
Location: NY & VT | Really really nice!
Removing and re-installing those white plastic headliner bows is a real bear, I managed to break one on my old 58 FireSweep, they're super fragile. I replaced mine with a stainless set, I'd imagine originals are very rarely seen. |
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Extreme Veteran
Posts: 500
Location: Upper East Tennessee | Rosy this looks awesome!! Great Job! |
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Posts: 1728
Location: Fleetwood, Pa | Love the color combo on this car and it's great to see that you're doing a top-notch resto also....I hope you decide not to put those skirts on after it's done though... 
Edited by sidesho_bob1961 2015-03-30 10:25 AM
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Expert
Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
My DeSoto and I thank you for all of the praise, guys!
Hehehe...those skirts sure do generate a lot of discussion. Not to worry, though; they can be popped off and on at a moment's notice to please everyone!
A couple of days ago I received an order I had placed with Gary Goers back in February. Yay! Gary came through with a bucket load of those fiddly little rubber bits and pieces that I just couldn't do without.
The resto is now down to the fine, detaily, O.C.D. kind of work that we all love so much (groan), and then the "Big D" shall surface yet again, hopefully better off for all of this resto madness of mine.
I tell ya, we F.L. folks are just not right in the head! But I'm still having the time of my life!
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Posts: 3155
Location: NY & VT | That looks like quite a facility there, who is doing the restoration? The quality of their work looks fabulous. |
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Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
"502 Auto Club" - they're Da Bomb! A collection of super talented guys. The owners gathered some of the best guys in town to work at the shop when they first opened their doors several years ago.
They've been great at doing the work according to my overly-detailed research. I think that my car has been the only Chrysler product that they've ever done this much work on, yet they've done a great job. There are a lot less Chryslers in this part of the country than there are Fords and Chevys, so they were honest about needing to depend on my research. They never looked down their noses at me because I was female either, which was one of the main reasons that I chose their shop to do the work. I knew that it would be a long haul; too long for me to put up with any of that "now, now, little lady" nonsense. They have some super high end cars at their shop, but they still treat my Mopar with the same kind of care as they take with their fancy cars. They also never pushed me to do work on my car that I didn't think needed to be done.
I was told that my car would be the last average restoration that they will be doing. They will be focusing more on reproducing really fancy iconic cars for folks with deep pockets. The cars that they are now producing are amazing - see second link below. They recently took some of these cars to Amelia Island.
One of their Spyder reproductions in the photo.
http://www.502autoclub.com/
http://www.502motorworks.com/
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Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
My car and an awesome Austin Healey like the one in the photo below, have been undergoing their restorations together.
When I visited the shop a long while back, each car had its chrome and stainless all lined up on the floor for sorting in the same positions that the chrome and stainless had come off of the cars...kind of like chrome and stainless "skeletons".
The Austin Healey had such a cute, little pile of tiny chrome and stainless bits and pieces. Awww.
The Desoto had a HUGE, not so cute, heap of giant chrome and stainless lumps and spears that were longer than the entire Austin all together. Ewww.
I sure do envy that Austin Healey owner's plating and polishing bills!
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Elite Veteran
Posts: 1120
Location: Brisbane, Australia | G'day Rosy cant wait to see this car in the flesh ..... Hope you ARE coming to Carlisle?!
Bob |
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Posts: 1493
Location: Jamaica Plain, MA | Really fantastic, Rosy! Xx |
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Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
Thanks, guys!
There are soooo many events from which to choose this summer, but I'd sure like to finally make it to Carlisle this year seeing how the show will be featuring F.L. cars!
We shall see; it might depend on how much time I can get off from work.
Hope all y'all will be there!
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Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
Nothing that exciting to report today - just had new shocks installed the other day.
But what was very COOL, was that my car's former owner and his wife passed through town on their way home from wintering in Florida, and they had time to drop by and see their old DeSoto (now my DeSoto) in the final stages of its restoration.
They were both really happy with the changes, which made me feel good.
They still own a '56 DeSoto which is a very nice car.
Here is a photo of the FORMER OWNERS checking out their old car - and a pic of their '56:
Edited by FIN ME 2015-04-21 10:23 AM
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Exner Expert 19,174 posts. Neil passed away 18 Sep 2015. You will be missed, Neil!
Posts: 19146
Location: bishop, ca | There is a relatively 'large' industry, now, devoted to the unabashed re-creation of mostly-English
classic (sports-type) cars.
These mega-buk rides can be savored within the beautifully presented pages of "Octane" magazine.
Rosy's restoration shop appears to be a domestic iteration of a high-end European facility, as are so lovingly
represented (and detailed) within 'Octane'.
"Octane" costs 10-bux(!), but it is a slow-nightly bedtime read, and worth every (English-) penny.
I get Octane from Barnes & Noble, when I get to Reno, about once every-other month, now.
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Location: North Australia | Rosy, can you please bring your car to Carlisle this year? Would be awesome to see it.
Steve. |
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Posts: 3155
Location: NY & VT | Wow, their facilities, abilities, and re-creations are pretty impressive!
Looks like they have quite a few MGs too, I've had a bunch of them, as well as a few Jags and TRs, all fun, but living up to their cantakerous reputations! I'm done with English cars' tinny construction, leaky seals, and Lucas "Price of Darkness" electrics.
In their current "projects" they should show your beautiful '57! The former owner's '56 is a real beauty too, I bet they liked their former car's new colors!
Edited by firedome 2015-04-23 10:52 AM
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Expert
Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
OK, OK, guys, I know that I keep on saying this, but there's not much left to do on my car before I'll consider the resto finally done....no, really!
Still left to do: align the wheels, buff the paint, finish hooking up the sound system, finish a few small, interior details, and polish the front windshield ( ).
Some other good news is that the new glove box liner that I made fits. It was rather difficult to know if I was getting the shape correct because the original glove box liner was so crumbly that it pretty much fell apart when I attempted to use it as a template for constructing the new liner. But all is well.
And I found some very nice wheel covers on Ebay to replace a couple of my less-than-charming wheel covers.
The "plexi-glass" sun visors turned out well. I got them for a super good price. They polished up really well. The "plexi-glass" itself was too wavy from melting in the sun for decades on end, and it was also too scratched up to be reused, so a piece of clear plexi-glass was placed into each visor frame, and then each side of the new plexi-glass was covered with modern window tinting flim in a shade the hopefully looks very close to the colour of the original sun visors.
And best of all, the engine started on the first crank after sitting idle for sooooo long. And there have been no subsequent under-car leaks onto the shop's rather pristine flooring.
I am a very patient sort when it comes to getting those final, little details right, but I have to admit that I can't WAIT to take my old car back out on the road again.
I'll post some pic's once I get back on the road again!
Thanks again, for all y'all's help!
Edited by FIN ME 2015-06-07 10:31 AM
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Expert 5K+
Posts: 7807
Location: Williams California | Hope to see you at Carlisle, Rosy! The car sure looks great!!!
---John |
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Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
More progress photos that I took today.
The resto of the tinted "plexi-glass" sun visors went well. The shop's fabricator made the attachments that connect them to the roof...he did a great job!
The "Flookerang" seat belts are bolted in place.
Half the carpet is back in; the carpet just needed a new and improved edging.
The interior and exterior door handles and the window cranks were plated and they all turned out great, along with the new door panels.
And the rear seat is in back in place.
The MP3/Ipod player that is hidden in the glove box now has the controls hidden in the ashtray.
Counting down to the finish line!
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Posts: 1906
Location: Ontario, Canada | Beautiful job Rosy. Well done!!
Greg |
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Posts: 3480
Location: Montreal, Canada | Excellent restoration of a beautiful car! Thanks for posting! Hope to see this car in person some time. |
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Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
Thank you for the compliments, my fellow countrymen!
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Posts: 1384
Location: Ocala, Florida | Gorgeous! I love those seat belts. Hopefully I will be able to eventually find some. Will this beauty be making it to Carlisle? |
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Location: The Mile High City | Rosy - you must have very, very long legs (and long arms too)!
It looks quite roomy for a two-seater!
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Posts: 1295
Location: Nasco , SWEDEN | Totally Awesome, supernice car Whats the name of those colors? Mist green and jet black?
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Exner Expert 19,174 posts. Neil passed away 18 Sep 2015. You will be missed, Neil!
Posts: 19146
Location: bishop, ca | Hey, Rosie; how well does your side glass align with the roof and to each other?
I recall that my DAD'S 1957 Dodge 2-dr Ht's side glass was stiff to operate, but that the glass DID
fully operate, using the OEM window cranks....Horrie needs to have 'you' grip the leading edge of the
window, and then PULL the window to its 'final-up' position.
Going down, H.'s glass initially needs to be pushed backwards, to get it to be 'wanting' to move.
Edited by d500neil 2015-06-18 1:34 AM
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Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
Carlisle is iffy at the moment, but we did reserve a room at a local hotel, just in case we do make it.
I can barely reach the pedals even with the front seat pushed as close to the steering wheel as I can get it!
Yep, "Mist Green" and black. The original interior code is #516.
The side windows fit and operated well when I got the car in 2011, but the weather stripping was another story! The side window weather stripping and channels have been replaced with reproductions and that has greatly improved things. I couldn't find the weather stripping for the sidelights, so the original weather stripping (which had shrunk and hardened over the years) was reconditioned with "Eastwood's Rubber, Plastic & Vinyl Restore" several times over, and now it is in much better condition and there are currently no gaps between the side windows, sidelights, and the roof, pillars, and doors. I hope it stays that way!
Edited by FIN ME 2015-06-18 9:29 AM
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Exner Expert 19,174 posts. Neil passed away 18 Sep 2015. You will be missed, Neil!
Posts: 19146
Location: bishop, ca | If your trim panels are not all-installed, yet, you (everyone-) can apply a liberal application of "Lock Tite"
to all of the movable internal door/window connections, because they WILL tend to loosen up, and rattle,
over time.
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Expert 5K+
Posts: 7207
Location: Victoria, BC, on Vancouver Island, Canada | FIN ME - 2015-06-18 6:26 AM
I can barely reach the pedals even with the front seat pushed as close to the steering wheel as I can get it!
:cool:
LOL, When I bought my Saratoga, I noticed that the brake and gas pedals had another set of pedals actually bolted over top of the original pedals - obviously a very short person owned / operated the car at one point. I removed the"overlay" pedals, and filled the holes in the originals ( which have minor wear, indicating the overlays weren't always on top) with black silicone cement. |
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Posts: 34
Location: nova scotia | Looking really GOOD Rosy. See you at the Convention next month |
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Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
Thanks, guys! I sure hope that my plans to finally get my DeSoto back to the NDC Convention work out, Barrie. Keep yer fingers crossed!
imopar380, that reminds me! - I had one of those old, wedge-shaped back bolsters that I found used in an obscure little store a LONG time ago. I used that thing for years while driving a string of old-style, used cars. Finally I was able to start buying new, modern cars in which I could reach the pedals without using my back bolster. Jeepers, I miss that thing, especially now that I'm back to driving a big, old car with a bench seat; the oldest car I've ever had.
I wonder if they still make those old style, wedge-shaped bolsters for us wannabe Hobbits out there?
I guess I can always start wearing platform shoes, a la Frankenstein.
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Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
Breaking news...naw, not really.
I've decided to have the under-dash record player attach with a quick-disconnect mounting thingy. I think that there's enough leg room with the record player in place, but I can understand how a "normal" person might want/need more leg room on a long trip. The under-dash AC sits under the middle of the dash, so the record player will be attached under the passenger side of the dash.
My shop's fabricator came up with the thought for the quick-disconnect...cool.
Don't mind me...these days, ANY news that gets my car closer to completion seems to excite me greatly...I must remain calm.
As you were...
Edited by FIN ME 2015-06-20 9:55 AM
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Expert 5K+
Posts: 8443
Location: Perth Australia | It cant be far from done now Rosy
I just ordered personalized license plates for my dodge
I got "60DODGE", I was trying for "PHOENIX" but they were not available
Now the rush is back on to get it finished before the plates turn up (however long that takes)
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Posts: 2312
Location: Arizona | My plates say 60DODGE too. Yet I've had many people look at the car and then ask what year is it. I guess they are so dazzled by the fins they don't even notice the plate. |
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Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
That's cool about the 60DODGE plates, guys. But I bet you'll still get asked what year your car is. LOL I've had folks look right at my car's rear plate and ask what year my car is.
I could NOT believe that "57 FINS" was still available for custom plates when I obtained them for my DeSoto. There are a TON of '57 Chevys in my area, and I thought that one of their owners would have snapped up those particular custom plates.
It's nifty here in KY because you can have both custom plates AND antique plates for the same car, and change them out whenever you wish, ie: antique plates for the more fussy car shows out there. We also don't need front plates here, which is also a bonus.
BTW...Did I mention that I miss my DeSoto? Here's me, being a big cry baby in my temporary, substitute ride...
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Posts: 2312
Location: Arizona | Is that red a factory color? The whitewalls look a bit narrow for true originality too! |
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Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
Some bad photos I took yesterday - the end of this resto is in sight; just a few more days to go...I hope...(have I said that before? )
The upholsterer is busy polishing the windshield as I type - so far, so good.
The record player has been installed with a quick-release disconnect. There's a phone jack and an IPod/MP3 hidden in the glove box, and the controls are hidden in the ashtray.
My upholsterer even found those tiny size 2 screws for the pushbutton gear plate. That took some doing.
Front seats are in and now they are adjustable; not locked in place like they were prior to the resto. And the new seatbelts look good too, methinks. They are cheapy copies of the original Flookerang type from back in the day.
Carpet is back in and it fits much better than it used to.
Still need to finish installing the rear view mirror, charge the AC, buff the paint to high gloss, align the wheels, and finish up a few tiny little OCD-induced tasks, and it all shall be over...well...it's never really over when it comes to these old cars, is it?
I'm soooo tired, working like mad to pay for it all, but it has sure been worth it, IMHO.
Sorry for the poor photo quality. (Oops! A photo of a rather odd white car that was at the shop crept into this post; must've hit an extra "enter" while posting - ah well, I'll leave it there for giggles.)
.
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Extreme Veteran
Posts: 500
Location: Upper East Tennessee | This looks awesome Rosy! |
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Location: Perth Australia | Wont be long Rosy
Looks like you, me and John are all going to finish at about the same time
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Location: MN | What an attractive car, great color combo. I like it |
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Posts: 1493
Location: Jamaica Plain, MA | Love her! BTW her sister in my stable is now fully functional with the body only needing a tiny bit of work, eg: minor surface imperfections, etc., before paint. Chrome will have to wait until I win the lottery or roll a wealthy widow. It took long enough. Pics soon. She looks like your car's bad girl sister. All black interior, muted tones, and so forth. Rosy, when she's done and you want to do more, consider a 4 barrel manifold and a WCFB (unless you haven't). It will give her a notable spring in her step without doing anything that cant easily be undone.
Awesome job! Xx
Jonny |
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Exner Expert 19,174 posts. Neil passed away 18 Sep 2015. You will be missed, Neil!
Posts: 19146
Location: bishop, ca | Ya done good, Rosy!
And, when you consider installing those Twice Pipes, you might also consider connecting them to
dedicated exhaust deflector-extensions...and get a real Jet Age experience, with the exhausts exiting via the bumper!
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Location: temperance, MI | Love the color combo, and looks awesome with the interior colors, classy |
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Expert
Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
Thanks, guys!
BTW the glass polishing went very well (whew!), and my car still has a front windshield. Yay!
BRACE YERSELVES, all ye fellow Forward Look-ittes!...the day has FINALLY arrived - my car will be ready for pick up today! It is done-like-dinner!
I'm going to fuss over a few little details and then post some photos (IF it ever stops raining, that is!).
All y'all have been SO helpful during my car's resto!
JT Vincent, your car sounds awesome! Lean and street-mean! Love it! My car is more of a drag queen...hahahahaha.
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Location: Klein, TX | Great to hear that the car is done Rosy. I look forward to seeing the pictures. |
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Location: Connecticut | Congrats Rosie ! Have you had a chance to drive it yet ? Ron |
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Expert
Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
Thank you, folks!
Here's a review!:
I drove the car for a solid 120 miles yesterday, a lot of it on winding roads, and the car drove great; especially with the new, "old" rebuilt power steering and brakes systems. You really could steer that car using a pencil, just like they used to demonstrate in those old timey, Mopar car ads. The car had manual steering and brakes when I got it, so I appreciate these new improvements a lot. Even the new "deluxe" steering wheel feels nicer that the standard one that the car used to have. The radial tires are nifty too and give me at least the impression that the car is easier to handle...no more sliding in and out of grooves on the road. They are "Diamond Back" tires...a little more "rumbly" than I thought they would be, but still a great improvement over my car's former poly tires, IMHO. And the car still "floats" along, like a big boat, as it always has.
You could hang meat in that car now, with the new Vintage Air AC. Wowza, that little under-dash unit works super well. I had it set on the lowest settings, and that was enough to cool the entire car, front and back. The new seats and arm rests are nice and firm; they used to be a bit too puffy and too soft for comfortable support during a long trip. I'll have to come up with something to deal with catching the occasional drips from the condensation that collects on one of the AC lines that runs under the dash, but otherwise the AC system is great! It is quiet too with the fan set at the lower speeds, which is all I think that I will ever need.
I was a tad worried that the car might run hot with the new AC running - I found a 6-blade rad fan for the car, but decided to not install a rad shroud because it would've taken way too much jiggery-pokery to get one installed. My car also does not have a heavy duty rad, as did the cars that had factory installed AC. But, as per usual, that temp gauge needle did not move more than it's usual 1/8th of an inch away from the "COLD" side of the gauge, even after 120 miles of constant AC use, on a hot day, driving in a "spritely manner" (aka speeding). When I first bought the car, I thought that the temp gauge was not working, because that needle didn't seem to budge, but it was working just fine. I've heard that the '57 Mopars are difficult to overheat; I tend to believe it.
The concerns:
The car needs some electrical bugs worked out; the shop's electrical guy is working on it as we speak. I think the new alternator (disguised as an original generator) is giving us a little bit of grief. The windshield wiper motor is also a work in progress...isn't it always? We also need to get the emergency brake warning light hooked up, as well as getting the dash clock set and ticking again. I never could find a gas door spring, so I had to go the "decorative magnet" route for now. The doors don't have a perfect fit, like they used to, but methinks (mehopes) that the new, repro weather stripping will loose some of its puff in time, and will shrink back in a tad. At least that's my theory. I found the power steering system a tad noisy, a little like heavy breathing...and this time it WASN'T me.
The new MP3/Ipod sound system works great - rear speakers, controls hidden in the ashtray. I was rockin' the tunes as I drove along, which was a treat as the car's original radio didn't work very well at all. It's kind of ironic that I spent so much time (and money) finding and installing that set of rear antennae, yet I have no plans to use the radio.
The sidelights are quieter than they used to be, but wind noise is still a bit of a factor...but not really that bad now that the weather stripping has been reconditioned.
The Dynamat in the doors, floor, and truck did make a noticeable difference reducing the road noise.
The whole car feels more solid, and less rattle-prone. But it still drives like an old car, and smells like an old car (in a good way). It still has little pings and mini-rattles that come and go, mostly behind the dash somewhere. I caledl those noises "the rattle du jour" because they change every time I drove the car. I think that's all just part of the car's charm...just like the "bouncing speedometer once ya drive over 80mph.
I stopped a couple of times during my trip, and folks stopped what they were doing and came over to see the car and to ask questions. Everyone liked the paint job, which was cool.
Before I picked the car up, a fellow came over to the shop to polish/buff the car, using some kind of aerospace products on the paint, and on the tires and chrome too, that made the car extremely shiny and slick. I ran my hand over the black roof, and no handprint smudge was left behind. That was weird...that product is spooky, but it worked. After 120 miles, some of it in a light rain, the car was still clean and bug/dirt free...even the whitewalls...spooky.
The rear view mirror and the side mirrors all stay in place now, and don't start to droop after a mile or two, like they use to. Bonus!
The lights are much brighter than they used to be with the old generator, especially the rear lights, which makes me feel way better, and safer.
I'll keep y'all posted...more reports as events warrant, and I'll post some photos...if the DARN rain ever stops...there's a tornado warning as I'm typing this...groan...
Edited by FIN ME 2015-07-10 11:09 AM
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Expert
Posts: 4042
Location: Connecticut | Awesome, Rosie ! We had the same door fit issue on my 58 Plymouth, where they'd stick out a tad too much when the door was closed. What my body guy ended up doing was elongate the door hinge bolt holes where the hinge meets the door. Then he was able to get perfect alignment. Door opens and closes great now. Are you using the Gary Goers door weatherstrip ? That was the problem with mine. His stuff is too dense (at least what he was selling back in 2006, when the doors were aligned). Same issue with the trunk rubber. I purchased some GM A-body 1968-72 trunk weatherstrip, which fits perfectly, and the problem of the trunk lid sticking up went away completely. Pictures ? Ron |
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Exner Expert 19,174 posts. Neil passed away 18 Sep 2015. You will be missed, Neil!
Posts: 19146
Location: bishop, ca | NICE review, Rosy!
Your car's inside rear view mirror OUGHT to begin to vibrate badly at around 85-90 MPH...mine does.
I'm surprised that your ride still 'feels' or rides like an olde car.
You will probably NEVER stop attending to your car...right now, the opening of my car's driver's side door appears to require
a 'tightening up' of its internal release lever, inside the door....this is why I recently recommended that 'everyone' apply "LocTite"
to their cars' doors and windows attachment-points.....after their operation and alignments have been dialed-in perfectly....so that those
adjustments will remain in effect, and not begin to rattle or to loosen up.
Has your alignment shop dialed-in about 1.5 degrees of Positive Caster?
Positive Caster will make the car steer straight, but will also slow down the steering response....but who doesn't
like hands-off steering?
The "old car" feel might be related to the tire pressure or the tire construction, where the sidewalls tend to
roll under the chassis on turns.
You might try raising the tire pressure, to make your ride's handling more sprightly, and quick.
Beyond 1.5 degrees of positive caster, additional caster application will begin to affect the Camber adjustment (wheels looking knock-knee'd).
Its ride and handling should be nigh-on perfect; no lost-motion in its steering response (especially) and its brakes' application should be firm and smooth, with no oscillation in their engagement.
In Re: its brakes, you can have Firm Feel install their Carbon Metallic linings, so, you can really 'plant' your foot
into the brakes.
Those brake shoes will need to be sent directly to Firm Feel, for the linings' upgrading, so, this project is best left
to the winter-time.
The dash clock's timing can be adjusted by one minute per day up/down for each 12 hours that you advance or retard the clock's
time.
Edited by d500neil 2015-07-10 6:54 PM
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Expert 5K+
Posts: 7207
Location: Victoria, BC, on Vancouver Island, Canada | Sounds like you are really enjoying it, and going to enjoy it a whole lot more. Let us have some more pictures of the car when it's completely done and back in your hands!!
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Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
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Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
TA DA!
All done!
(well...almost )
I finally got the time (and some dry weather), so I grabbed a few photos of my DeSoto wearing his new duds.
The "Mist Green" paint on the car looks less "blue", and more pastel (lighter) in real life.
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Expert 5K+
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Location: Perth Australia | Brilliant
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Expert
Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
Good morning, Mick!
And thank you!
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Expert 5K+
Posts: 8443
Location: Perth Australia | Just send it over now Rosy
With all the other cars in there, I am sure you wouldnt miss it
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Expert 5K+
Posts: 7402
Location: northern germany | oh wow!!! what a beautiful car! perfect colors. this is exactly how i would have done it. just perfect! i like the interior too but think it would look even better with green/black cloth&vinyl to match the outside. |
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Expert
Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
Thank you, Sid!
It sure has been a journey, to say the least.
After playing around with a few choices, I stuck with installing an original interior (Code 516), but the same pattern did come in an all-green version back in '57 (blue too). I thought about installing the all-green version, but the black and gray were more "me"...black...like my soul. Just kidding! Don't mind me; I just have a bad case of post-resto giddiness!
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Posts: 1384
Location: Ocala, Florida | Stunning! What a great color combo for this car! Excellent work. Will she make it to Carlisle 2016? |
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Extreme Veteran
Posts: 500
Location: Upper East Tennessee | Magnificent Rosy! I know this has been a lot of hard work for you. The results are breathtaking! |
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Exner Expert 19,174 posts. Neil passed away 18 Sep 2015. You will be missed, Neil!
Posts: 19146
Location: bishop, ca | That is SOME car, Rosy!!!
Now, where are you going to drive it, during the rest of the Summer????
Which car provided its seat for your riding pleasure??
The dual ashtrays imply a New Yorker, etc....Big Dog model.
It's your baby, but I wish that you could have been talked into having the exhaust system
be routed through the rear bumpers.
Edited by d500neil 2015-08-03 10:19 PM
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Location: Victoria, BC, on Vancouver Island, Canada | Outstanding! Love it all the way through. |
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Board Moderator & Exner Expert 10K+
Posts: 13050
Location: Southern Sweden - Sturkö island | A real gem - looks totally fantastic, you can be proud of the car and all the work! |
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Elite Veteran
Posts: 1172
Location: Georgia | WOW! She's absolutely beautiful, Rosy! I could look at these photos for hours!!
Pete |
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Location: North Australia | Phenomenal car! Must feel good driving it down the road? A dream realised, well done!
Steve. |
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Posts: 2308
Location: The Bat Cave, Fairborn, OH | Wow! A perfectly restored Firesweep with cool colors! I'm jealous! I guess it wasn't too hard to adapt the swing out front seat to your application? Is that a power seat too that moves fore and aft? What's up with the odometer in your speedometer cluster? Why does it look orange? Or is that a trick of the light when you took the picture? I hope I'll see this car at a De Soto show in the near future.
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Location: USA - KY |
Thank you, all, for the super nice comments!
And thank you, everyone, for the great advice and help that I received during my car's resto. Finding this site was a real PLUS. You guys and gals rock!
Randy - I hope to make it to Carlisle next year; almost made it this year, but alas, the car was not quite ready for a long trip. I know that I missed out on seeing a really nice batch of FL cars. 
For now, I'm just going to stick to the shows around town. The HUGE "Street Rod Nationals" show is being held here in Louisville this weekend (approx. 11,000 cars), and I might enter my car in the Mopar "show within a show" which is open to any Mopar, street rod or not. We shall see. It's always 100 degrees during this show, so it remains to be seen if I will survive the weekend.
Neil and Stephen - the swivel seats were in the car when I bought it. The previous owner said that they were in the car when he bought it as well, and he bought the car about 20 years ago. So we don't really know where they came from, or when they were installed. It's a mystery, I guess. But I liked them, and they are a hit with folks who see the car, so I decided to have them reinstalled during the restoration. I had to come up with an upholstery design that fit with the original Code 516 interior that I was using on the back seat and the door panels. I think it looks convincing at first glance, especially to the non FL folks who see the car. The upholsterer worked really hard on getting everything ship-shape that was necessary for the front seats to function correctly. They worked fairly well when I got the car, but with some parts from Gary Goers, and a few odds and ends from the upholsterer's own stash of goodies, the seats now swivel really well, and the arm rest and seat adjustment function well too. (They are not power seats.)
The numbers of the odometer are a tad orange-ish in real life, but not nearly as neon orange as they appear in the photos. I was wearing a bright orange top when I took the pic's, so maybe it's just a reflection of sorts? They do look a bit "glowy", now that you mention it.
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Location: Connecticut | Now we need a photo of the car with its proud owner ! Ron |
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Posts: 1207
Location: Ponder, TX | Classy and beautiful! |
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Expert
Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
Thanks, for the nice comments!
Here are two photos comparing the original pattern of the front seat upholstery for the "Code 516" interior that was available for the '57 Sweeps, with the design that I came up with for the swivel seats that were already in my car. Close enough...
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Posts: 1488
Location: New Castle PA | As far as the color of the odometer letters, I have seen many with the red. I'd guess maybe 80% of '57 DeSotos odometers are white, and 20% red. Don't know if it's a "supply" thing at the time (different sources), or replacements versus originals, or what. |
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Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
That's interesting, Ed. Yet another example of Mopar using what was on hand on any given day as the cars rolled down the assembly line.
So I guess in reality, my car's odometer numbers are a tad faded, if anything?
BTW, folks, I know I've written this before, but 57desoto (Ed) was my main source of info during my car's resto, and I sure could NOT have done it without him. I think I about drove him around the bend with all of my frequently asked questions (sometimes on a daily basis), but thankfully, he is one patient dude as well as being super knowledgeable! Thank you again, Ed!
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Extreme Veteran
Posts: 481
Location: near St Augustine, FL | Stunning automobile Rosey! Can't wait to see it in Baltimore... |
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Expert
Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
Thanks, Dan!
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Posts: 4654
| Congrats Rosie, there is a great pic of your 57 Desoto and its engine compartment in the latest NSRA Street Scene magazine !!! If you don't have a copy, let me know, and I'll send you mine. |
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Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
Thanks, Dave. The car was a real hit among the crowds at the show...over 11,000 cars to see. Whew! We go every year, so it was really great to finally be able to enter a car into the Street Rod National's Mopar "show within a show".
Most folks around here (Ford and Chevy country) have not seen many finned '57 Mopars before, so it was fun watching them look the car over. It seemed to be equally popular with people of all ages, men and women alike. Everyone liked the colour, which was a relief.
It was a surprise to see a pic of it in the magazine dedicated to street rods and customs.
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Location: Northern New Jersey | Rosy,
Its just beautiful!
It was certainly Worth all you hard work.
Enjoy the ride.
Steve |
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Expert
Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
Thanks, Steve!
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Location: nova scotia | Your car always looked good now it looks great. All your hard work paid off. I am going to email you a picture of a car I saw want your opinion on fixing it. |
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Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
Shor ting, Skipper!
Was it that "moss" green Mini?
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Posts: 1488
Location: New Castle PA | Absolutely rewarding, Rosie, isn't it? You deserve all the accolades We're all proud of you and the beautiful 'Sweep! |
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Expert
Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
Thanks, Ed!
Couldn't have done it without you!
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Extreme Veteran
Posts: 452
Location: Southern California | Suddenly those skirts are looking mighty fine! Gotta have them on my beast! A real beauty! |
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Expert
Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
Thank you, Gidman.
As you know, some folks are fans of skirts on FL cars, others not so much.
IMHO, I think that it depends on the over all look of a car whether or not it will look good in skirts.
In the case of my car, I like the way that the skirts seem to work to "extend" the low, black trim paint on my car, anchoring that slap-happy green colour to the earth, and adding a strong impression of horizontality.
I think that they also add to the entire mass of the back end, making the rear quarters and fins appear more monolithic in appearance.
But that might just be me.
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Extreme Veteran
Posts: 500
Location: Upper East Tennessee | My dad got that Street Scene magazine and couldn't wait to tell me there was a 57 Desoto in it. He was shocked when I told him I knew that car. We really are a small group! Awesome showing Rosy! |
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Elite Veteran
Posts: 1159
Location: D-70199 Heslach | Rosy, what have you done with the heater control valve ?
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Extreme Veteran
Posts: 471
Location: MN | The swivel seats are incorrect for a 57, they should be pulled & sent to me for my 60 DART! Great looking car, color, love the full wheel covers & the Swivels asre a great addition! Keep up the great work |
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Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
I never did get around to posting final trunk and engine photos...for anyone interested...
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| those skirts really work because they are hidden and subtle due to that color sash. Only way to run skirts imho and they look great.
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Extreme Veteran
Posts: 537
Location: Upstate NY | I usually don't like fender skirts but they look great!! |
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Location: The Bat Cave, Fairborn, OH | Great looking car,. both engine and trunk. :laugh:Whoever was in charge of the restoration, he (she?) is a master craftsmen. |
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Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
Thanks, guys!
Our pal "Big M" and Gary Goers were great sources for parts, along with others here at the FL site.
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Posts: 4654
| Beautiful job! Love that color combo! I hope you can bring her to Carlisle next year. |
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Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
I'd really like to get to Carlisle next year if possible.
In the meantime, I'm really enjoying my old car. It was worth all of the time and investment IMHO. I'd like to keep the car for as long as I possibly can; we shall see how that goes, as one never knows these days how the future will develop.
I got the car in mid 2011, and it was in great shape to start with. But I got busy right away performing heavy-duty research for two over years, and then it took three years after that to get the car to the condition that it is now. It wasn't easy, but it was soooooooo much FUN!
Of course, like any old car nut, I still have those little tweaks and adjustments that I'd like to make to the car, such as finding someone to make my Benrus steering wheel clock mount, and improving the sound of the under-dash record player (it's so cool).
Good news is, that I have new repro doors sills on their way. Yay!
There is no way that I could have restored my car without the help of all of my pals here at the FL site, that's for sure.
Thanks again, guys and gals!
Edited by FIN ME 2016-10-25 9:12 AM
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Location: The Bat Cave, Fairborn, OH | FIN ME - 2016-10-25 8:11 AM I'd really like to get to Carlisle next year if possible. In the meantime, I'm really enjoying my old car. It was worth all of the time and investment IMHO. I'd like to keep the car for as long as I possibly can; we shall see how that goes, as one never knows these days how the future will develop. I got the car in mid 2011, and it was in great shape to start with. But I got busy right away performing heavy-duty research for two over years, and then it took three years after that to get the car to the condition that it is now. It wasn't easy, but it was soooooooo much FUN! Of course, like any old car nut, I still have those little tweaks and adjustments that I'd like to make to the car, such as finding someone to make my Benrus steering wheel clock mount, and improving the sound of the under-dash record player (it's so cool ). Good news is, that I have new repro doors sills on their way. Yay! There is no way that I could have restored my car without the help of all of my pals here at the FL site, that's for sure. Thanks again, guys and gals! :cool: Are there any records you could play on that Hi-Fi deal? My understanding (albeit imperfect) was there were only about 16 different records issued for that set up before Chrysler dropped the accessory in 1961 or 62. I agree though; it is cool to have recorded music you could listen to while driving; kind of like the Sirus satellite radio idea of its day.
Edited by 58 DESOTOS RULE 2016-10-25 7:42 PM
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Posts: 2596
Location: Upplands Väsby, Sweden | Rosy
Must say: What an incredibly well renovated and beautiful DeSoto you renovated. Nice to see all the fine detail work. Then color composition that is fine.
Then fit it with fender skirts. Serous work.
Edited by Windsor59 2016-10-26 8:57 AM
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Extreme Veteran
Posts: 471
Location: MN | My uncle had a new 57 Royal 4dr sed 2 tone green D500 demonstrator w/ Hi Way Hi Fi which Dad drove home occasionally. Dad gave us kids a ride to school in the mornings listening to Johnny Horton Sinking the Bismarck or chasing the Brits through the brambles. What GREAT times to be a kid!! |
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Expert
Posts: 2788
Location: USA - KY |
Thanks, guys!
58 DESOTOS RULE - As far as I understand, the first record players available to Chrysler products could not play 45 rpm records at the correct speed. So one had to purchase special records from Chrysler for the under-dash record players...I think.
Luckily for me, the record player that I have is a later model that does play regular 45 rpm records.
It works, but the timing is off a tad. It sure makes folks stare, though. You can see them trying to guess what it might be.
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Expert 5K+
Posts: 9675
Location: So. Cal | Looks like Rosemary sold her '57 Firesweep at Mecum today. It sold for $67K and has the same Big "O" with the forwardlook symbol on the trunk lid.
Sorry for the lousy picture. Idiot filmed it with his camera in the vertical direction, making the picture very small.
https://www.facebook.com/100056748705526/videos/284154460956677?idor...
Edited by Powerflite 2024-01-07 9:28 PM
 (Rosemary's 57 Firesweep Sold 67K.jpg)
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Rosemary's 57 Firesweep Sold 67K.jpg (32KB - 30 downloads)
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Expert 5K+
Posts: 7402
Location: northern germany | Thanks for the update. Last log on more than 6 years ago... Hope she is alright and still with us. She did a great job on the car. Beautiful colors and restoration
Edited by 1960fury 2024-01-07 10:08 PM
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Expert
Posts: 3967
Location: DFW, TX | 1960fury - 2024-01-07 9:05 PM
Thanks for the update. Last log on more than 6 years ago... Hope she is alright and still with us. She did a great job on the car. Beautiful colors and restoration
"This '57 Firesweep was owned by NDC member Rosemary Stolowich. She and her husband are moving to her native Canada from Louisville KY and cannot take the car so took it to auction." |
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