The Forward Look Network
The Forward Look Network
Search | Statistics | User Listing Forums | Chat | eBay | Calendars | Albums | Skins | Language
You are logged in as a guest. ( logon | register )

my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible
Jump to page : 1 2 3 4
Now viewing page 2 [50 messages per page]		View previous thread :: View next thread
   Forward Look NON-Technical Discussions -> 1955-1961 Forward Look MoPar General DiscussionMessage format
 
Doctor DeSoto
Posted 2017-03-03 12:24 AM (#535065 - in reply to #535064)
Subject: RE: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



5000500050005000200050025
Location: Parts Unknown		I do not own old cars for their handling. If that were the point, I'd have a Jag,
Corvette, or Ferrari. No, ... I own these cars for their looks FIRST, mechanicals,
performance, safety all fall to a distant second.

There are many things a person can do to improve the reliability and performance
of these cars without making them look like an old beater. NOTHING makes a finned
car look like a beater moreso than ugly-ass radials. I would crush my cars before I
ever drove them around on radials. It is one point I will not budge on.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
1957sotos
Posted 2017-03-03 5:08 AM (#535068 - in reply to #534814)
Subject: RE: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible


Regular

Posts: 65
2525
Fireflite56, Yes they are. That last photo shows a good comparison of the tire differences in the front wheel well.

My wife drove the black one 3 hours to the meet with no driving issues. (She chose that car because of the A/C.)

That was one hot meet. Perry
Top of the page Bottom of the page
Viper Guy
Posted 2017-03-03 9:15 AM (#535073 - in reply to #534814)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



Expert

Posts: 2007
2000
Location: Branson, MO		Here's a suggestion that will work for any tire size to help fill up the wheel well for looks on FL cars. Since the factory stock wheels are set "in" toward the chassis (not wide track), put about a 5/16" spacer between the brake drum and the wheel. It will move the wheel out a little and you will still have enough threads on the studs to properly hold the wheel in place. I would only recommend this if you are not using the car for a daily driver and I also suggest that you check the lug nut torque occasionally. I've driven thousands of miles with no issues whatsoever and, in my opinion, it does improve the looks and no one will know they are there - except you and those you tell.

Also, I've driven older cars that came with bias ply tires and tried radials just to see and feel the differences. I like the radials for driveability and safety and would prefer them for those purposes only. For authentic original appearance, I stick with the factory original bias ply and they work well enough for occasional driving like cruise in's, shows, etc.

Top of the page Bottom of the page
dlyle
Posted 2017-03-03 11:40 AM (#535078 - in reply to #534814)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



Veteran

Posts: 236
10010025
Location: Morgan Hill, CA		I choose to go with the 8.00 x 14 Goodyear Custom Super Cushions. Would have preferred a radial but they would have been close to an inch shorter and I don't want puny looking tires. Now I need to focus on cleaning up the wheels. Were the wheels originally gloss black or another color?

Edited by dlyle 2017-03-03 2:11 PM
Top of the page Bottom of the page
Powerflite
Posted 2017-03-03 12:16 PM (#535081 - in reply to #535078)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



Expert 5K+

Posts: 9856
5000200020005001001001002525
Location: So. Cal		I think Jay Leno said it best when he said "You want to keep an original car original; except disc brakes and radial tires...disc brakes, and radial tires." I couldn't have said it any better.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
soiouz
Posted 2017-03-03 1:54 PM (#535084 - in reply to #534814)
Subject: RE: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



Expert

Posts: 3490
20001000100100100100252525
Location: Montreal, Canada		This thread has diverted to a bias vs radial debate for too many posts, now, but I just have to put this here.. I'm with Doc on this, and I too, am interested in these cars for their looks above all, and on looks alone (not discussing safety or handling), to anyone debating bias vs radial (or wire wheels vs hubcaps too, for that matter), here are two pics of my car, a before and after, just for good measure.

I did change a few things here and there between those two pics, but mostly, the change is wheels and tires. I think the pics speak for themselves:



Edited by soiouz 2017-03-03 1:56 PM




(17078545_10154360127461938_180963136_n.jpg)



(17101964_10154360127791938_1028086624_n.jpg)



Attachments
----------------
Attachments 17078545_10154360127461938_180963136_n.jpg (191KB - 324 downloads)
Attachments 17101964_10154360127791938_1028086624_n.jpg (128KB - 320 downloads)
Top of the page Bottom of the page
dlyle
Posted 2017-03-03 2:09 PM (#535085 - in reply to #535084)
Subject: RE: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



Veteran

Posts: 236
10010025
Location: Morgan Hill, CA
soiouz - 2017-03-03 10:54 AM

This thread has diverted to a bias vs radial debate for too many posts, now, but I just have to put this here.. I'm with Doc on this, and I too, am interested in these cars for their looks above all, and on looks alone (not discussing safety or handling), to anyone debating bias vs radial (or wire wheels vs hubcaps too, for that matter), here are two pics of my car, a before and after, just for good measure.

I did change a few things here and there between those two pics, but mostly, the change is wheels and tires. I think the pics speak for themselves:



There were some very similar pictures I found that helped me decide. I think these Goodyear Custom Super Cushion 8" x 14" tires look perfect.



Edited by dlyle 2017-03-03 4:16 PM




(supercusion.JPG)



(park4.JPG)



Attachments
----------------
Attachments supercusion.JPG (105KB - 337 downloads)
Attachments park4.JPG (79KB - 319 downloads)
Top of the page Bottom of the page
big m
Posted 2017-03-03 3:46 PM (#535091 - in reply to #534814)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



Expert 5K+

Posts: 7814
50002000500100100100
Location: Williams California		Those appear to be the Goodyear Super Cushions.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
dlyle
Posted 2017-03-03 4:15 PM (#535094 - in reply to #535091)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



Veteran

Posts: 236
10010025
Location: Morgan Hill, CA
big m - 2017-03-03 12:46 PM

Those appear to be the Goodyear Super Cushions.


Yes, 8.00" x 14" Look just about perfect for me.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
dlyle
Posted 2017-03-03 4:17 PM (#535095 - in reply to #534814)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



Veteran

Posts: 236
10010025
Location: Morgan Hill, CA		Got one thing accomplished this week. Got the car registered and insured in my name and cleaned up the license plate.



(IMG_2002 small.jpg)



Attachments
----------------
Attachments IMG_2002 small.jpg (347KB - 313 downloads)
Top of the page Bottom of the page
Doctor DeSoto
Posted 2017-03-03 10:09 PM (#535121 - in reply to #535095)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



5000500050005000200050025
Location: Parts Unknown		I think you'll be very happy with the Super Cushions. I have a fresh
set in the shop that I will dye the whitewalls black on (they do not offer
them as blackwalls) and put on my Plaza:







(rr qtr shot 2 06 Feb 2013.jpg)



Attachments
----------------
Attachments rr qtr shot 2 06 Feb 2013.jpg (41KB - 331 downloads)
Top of the page Bottom of the page
GregCon
Posted 2017-03-03 10:59 PM (#535123 - in reply to #534814)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



Expert

Posts: 2524
2000500
Location: Houston		The issue is not so much radial vs. bias itself, but the rubber compounds used in bias ply's is often less 'scienced out' and the contact area is so small.

I don't own FL cars for handling as in gonna race around a track or up a mountain...but handling in terms of being able to navigate public roads? Yep, they gotta be able to do that. A FL car here in Houston with drums and bias ply's is gonna be good for about 1/2 the speed that all the other cars are driving, which in and of itself is a hazard even if you could stand it.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
Doctor DeSoto
Posted 2017-03-04 12:40 AM (#535126 - in reply to #535123)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



5000500050005000200050025
Location: Parts Unknown		Is there an "up" side to living in Houston ? The towering mountain
vistas ? The clean air ? The heat ? The humidity ? The delightful
country atmosphere and good "old car" backroads ?

It took me 30 years, but one day it occurred to me that living in a
sh!thole was a CHOICE, and no one was holding a gun to my head
and making me stay. It took another year to research where I wanted
to go and get my affairs in order. Never regretted anything except
taking so long to come to my senses.

Live as if you are dying. Life is too short to make excuses for bad
prioritizing.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
GregCon
Posted 2017-03-04 7:59 AM (#535131 - in reply to #535126)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



Expert

Posts: 2524
2000500
Location: Houston		LOL. Well Houston is not the greatest place in the world but it's better than people think it is. Plus you can make a lot of money here...which comes in handy when you have Forward Look Disease.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
Doctor DeSoto
Posted 2017-03-04 2:28 PM (#535156 - in reply to #535131)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



5000500050005000200050025
Location: Parts Unknown		I made a lot of money in Seattle, but it cost a lot to live there. Was a bit
of a wash. What sunk the deal for me was the 8 days of warm and sunshine
each year, 600 days of rain (I think my math *might* be off a little, but it is
close ) ....
the endless sprawl that makes it a major production to get out in the sticks,
and the attitude .... the Beemer/Lexus douchebag, look-at-me, stunt driver,
looking down there nose at everyone attitude of gated neighborhoods, glassy
high rises replacing everything old and cool, endless "retail" filling in all the old
farms and open space ....

Everything I love to do is outdoors and basically the place is just not friendly
to outdoors activities, metal objects that rust, top-down driving, ANY sort of
pleasure driving without the stunt driver team up your ass or throwing you
into panic braking situations .... it was time to leave.

I had sold 30 years of my life down a rathole andhad nothing to show for it.
I left and it remains one of the best decisions I ever made. Quality of life out-
weighs just about all other considerations. I'll never get those 30 years back.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
firedome
Posted 2017-03-05 1:27 PM (#535208 - in reply to #534814)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



Expert

Posts: 3156
200010001002525
Location: NY & VT		Couldn't agree more when it comes for a place to drive... and live, life it too short to compromise on quality of life. It's why we spend 6 mos/yr in Vermont, and soon will move back full time. Gorgeous mountain back roads, pristine air, fabulous lakeshore drives, lowest crime rate in the US, and you'll never see another FL, well, one 57 Dodge and 59 Imperial represented here excepted lol. And we can be in Montreal, better than ANY US city, in a bit over an hour.

AS far as the subject '57 DeSoto, the bias Goodyear Super Cushions look sooo much better!

Edited by firedome 2017-03-05 1:30 PM
Top of the page Bottom of the page
soiouz
Posted 2017-03-06 9:46 AM (#535263 - in reply to #535208)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



Expert

Posts: 3490
20001000100100100100252525
Location: Montreal, Canada
firedome - 2017-03-05 1:27 PM

And we can be in Montreal, better than ANY US city, in a bit over an hour.



I am planning on moving back to Montreal later this year. I love that city so much!




I cannot wait to see pics of the DeSoto convertible when its new tires are installed. It will really compliment that gorgeous car!
Top of the page Bottom of the page
61_Imperial
Posted 2017-03-06 11:33 AM (#535267 - in reply to #535263)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



Extreme Veteran

Posts: 480
100100100100252525
Location: Georgetown Texas		Beautiful car, I doubt you need anything, but I just got a 57 Desoto I am parting out (posted on this forum)

Thanks,
Ryan
Top of the page Bottom of the page
Doctor DeSoto
Posted 2017-03-06 1:16 PM (#535272 - in reply to #535267)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



5000500050005000200050025
Location: Parts Unknown		Montreal, ..... I love the swaying palms on a cool summer evening.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
dlyle
Posted 2017-03-06 1:16 PM (#535273 - in reply to #535267)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



Veteran

Posts: 236
10010025
Location: Morgan Hill, CA
61_Imperial - 2017-03-06 8:33 AM

Beautiful car, I doubt you need anything, but I just got a 57 Desoto I am parting out (posted on this forum)

Thanks,
Ryan


Just sent you a PM Ryan. Im on the hunt for these parts.

pinchweld chrome (by rear bumper)
air cleaner brackets
battery hold down and inner post
rubber hood stoppers (for sides of hood on body)
front emblem (may have found one)
chrome piece on passenger door (handle goes through)
exhaust venturi pieces
Seat belts (may have a lead on these)
dual rear antenna plastic/rubber base pieces
power window switches
Top of the page Bottom of the page
dlyle
Posted 2017-03-06 1:19 PM (#535275 - in reply to #534814)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



Veteran

Posts: 236
10010025
Location: Morgan Hill, CA		Did a little work on the car this weekend. Brakes locked up while backing out of the garage so I've got brake parts on order. In the mean time I did a little polishing. Paint looks great. Needs to get some pictures outside because the garage lights make it look like different shades of yellow.


Edited by dlyle 2017-03-06 1:24 PM




(IMG_2027 small.jpg)



(IMG_2028 small.jpg)



(IMG_2030 small.jpg)



(IMG_2032 small.jpg)



(IMG_2029 small.jpg)



Attachments
----------------
Attachments IMG_2027 small.jpg (197KB - 319 downloads)
Attachments IMG_2028 small.jpg (279KB - 326 downloads)
Attachments IMG_2030 small.jpg (344KB - 317 downloads)
Attachments IMG_2032 small.jpg (372KB - 323 downloads)
Attachments IMG_2029 small.jpg (386KB - 333 downloads)
Top of the page Bottom of the page
soiouz
Posted 2017-03-06 1:46 PM (#535280 - in reply to #535272)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



Expert

Posts: 3490
20001000100100100100252525
Location: Montreal, Canada
Doctor DeSoto - 2017-03-06 1:16 PM

Montreal, ..... I love the swaying palms on a cool summer evening.


Climate is not the only thing to take into account when thinking "quality of life".

Montreal has bustling culture, incredibly diverse and good quality restaurant scene, cheap accomodation, incredibly low crime rates, world-class museums, parks everywhere, farmer markets with high quality produce on the cheap, very relax and cool lifestyle, good and stable investment environment, world-class hospitals (yes, even in our free universal health care system), etc, etc. ....plus, the very hot and humid summer evenings almost make up for the cold and dark winter evenings.






....back on the DeSoto at hand: it does looks like the paint is very nice. That's a good polishing job!

Edited by soiouz 2017-03-06 1:56 PM
Top of the page Bottom of the page
Lancer Mike
Posted 2017-03-06 5:47 PM (#535296 - in reply to #535275)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



5000200020005001001002525
Location: The Mile High City		Looking better all the time! ...and it started out great!
Top of the page Bottom of the page
dlyle
Posted 2017-05-25 5:05 PM (#540907 - in reply to #534814)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



Veteran

Posts: 236
10010025
Location: Morgan Hill, CA		Progress has been very slow with the kids soccer practice and games and everything else. Right now the whole front end is off the car. Just about everything has been powder coated. NOS front end suspension and brake pieces have been lined up and are cluttering up the garage floor. I've got to find the time to get the front end and brakes back on. Then the exhaust will come off for replacement. I've got a stainless steel Waldron's exhaust that will go on it.

Below are some pictures of the under car detailing. Still has a long way to go. The rear end is getting cleaned in car but will come out soon to get final cleaning and new seals etc. I'm sure the pinion seal needs replacement. there was about 0 pounds of caked on grease on the center section. The gas tank was pretty dirty underneath but is slowly getting cleaned. Most of the rust spots are coming off. I prefer to not have to replace it. Will eventually take it out for cleaning on the inside. One thine at a time its getting closer to driving again.



(IMG_2058 small.jpg)



(IMG_2059 small.jpg)



(IMG_2060 small.jpg)



(IMG_2062 small.jpg)



(IMG_2063 small.jpg)



(IMG_2064 small.jpg)



Attachments
----------------
Attachments IMG_2058 small.jpg (393KB - 308 downloads)
Attachments IMG_2059 small.jpg (442KB - 320 downloads)
Attachments IMG_2060 small.jpg (424KB - 317 downloads)
Attachments IMG_2062 small.jpg (298KB - 318 downloads)
Attachments IMG_2063 small.jpg (454KB - 324 downloads)
Attachments IMG_2064 small.jpg (441KB - 318 downloads)
Top of the page Bottom of the page
Lancer Mike
Posted 2017-06-21 5:34 PM (#542589 - in reply to #535064)
Subject: RE: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



5000200020005001001002525
Location: The Mile High City		any updates?
Top of the page Bottom of the page
dlyle
Posted 2017-06-28 1:49 PM (#543056 - in reply to #534814)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



Veteran

Posts: 236
10010025
Location: Morgan Hill, CA		Progress has been slow. I've spent countless days under the car with a wire brush getting it all cleaned up and painted. The exhaust practically fell off the car. Some parts I just tore out with my bare hands. All the parts are getting cleaned and painted. I'll try to get some pictures.

I took out the gas tank for cleaning. The inside didn't need anything. It was very clean inside. I've got new stainless brake lines and stainless exhaust. Still need to take the driveshaft out to detail and replace the u-joints. Will also replace the rubber on the shackles.

Edited by dlyle 2017-06-28 2:30 PM




(IMG_2065.JPG)



(Copy (1) of IMG_2066_1.jpg)



(IMG_2067.JPG)



(IMG_2068.JPG)



(IMG_2069.JPG)



Attachments
----------------
Attachments IMG_2065.JPG (36KB - 313 downloads)
Attachments Copy (1) of IMG_2066_1.jpg (70KB - 315 downloads)
Attachments IMG_2067.JPG (44KB - 312 downloads)
Attachments IMG_2068.JPG (38KB - 296 downloads)
Attachments IMG_2069.JPG (50KB - 295 downloads)
Top of the page Bottom of the page
61_Imperial
Posted 2017-06-28 2:14 PM (#543058 - in reply to #543056)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



Extreme Veteran

Posts: 480
100100100100252525
Location: Georgetown Texas		You are going to turn those drums before you install them with the paint on the shoe mating surface, right??
Top of the page Bottom of the page
dlyle
Posted 2017-06-28 2:23 PM (#543060 - in reply to #543058)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



Veteran

Posts: 236
10010025
Location: Morgan Hill, CA
61_Imperial - 2017-06-28 11:14 AM

You are going to turn those drums before you install them with the paint on the shoe mating surface, right??


already turned....that's masking tape that's painted over. Notice the one on the lower right has it removed......





(IMG_2064.jpg)



Attachments
----------------
Attachments IMG_2064.jpg (159KB - 296 downloads)
Top of the page Bottom of the page
dlyle
Posted 2017-06-28 2:37 PM (#543061 - in reply to #534814)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



Veteran

Posts: 236
10010025
Location: Morgan Hill, CA		All the hardware that came off the car got a bath in Evapo-Rust to remove any rust. Most came out pretty clean. The second picture is one of the small piles of stuff that has to go back on the car. Everything wrapped in brown paper is the stuff that came back from powder coating.


Edited by dlyle 2017-06-28 4:42 PM




(IMG_2070.JPG)



(IMG_2071 small.jpg)



Attachments
----------------
Attachments IMG_2070.JPG (456KB - 301 downloads)
Attachments IMG_2071 small.jpg (408KB - 292 downloads)
Top of the page Bottom of the page
57desoto
Posted 2017-06-29 6:23 AM (#543106 - in reply to #534814)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



Expert

Posts: 1492
1000100100100100252525
Location: New Castle PA		Where did you find the exhaust extensions that bring things up through the bumper ends? Originals or repros? The one I see looks great. That would be something to carefully document/measure for reproduction purposes, and I'm sure could easily be sold. I had my local bumper shop make mine, but yours looks better.



(epetrus_s26a_ bumper_venturi.jpg)



Attachments
----------------
Attachments epetrus_s26a_ bumper_venturi.jpg (175KB - 322 downloads)
Top of the page Bottom of the page
dlyle
Posted 2017-06-29 12:53 PM (#543133 - in reply to #543106)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



Veteran

Posts: 236
10010025
Location: Morgan Hill, CA
57desoto - 2017-06-29 3:23 AM

Where did you find the exhaust extensions that bring things up through the bumper ends? Originals or repros? The one I see looks great. That would be something to carefully document/measure for reproduction purposes, and I'm sure could easily be sold. I had my local bumper shop make mine, but yours looks better.


I hunted and found all original NOS parts. I only have found the left connector but found both venturis. I still need the connector on the right side but Ive got my exhaust guy duplicating both sides in stainless. He's been pretty busy so no movement yet.

Funny thing with this car I can always find various pieces that go on the left side of the car. The right side is always tougher though.

Edited by dlyle 2017-06-29 1:00 PM




(IMG_2072.JPG)



Attachments
----------------
Attachments IMG_2072.JPG (113KB - 303 downloads)
Top of the page Bottom of the page
Powerflite
Posted 2017-06-29 1:03 PM (#543134 - in reply to #534814)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



Expert 5K+

Posts: 9856
5000200020005001001001002525
Location: So. Cal		Smart move to go to stainless while you still have the good dimensions available.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
dlyle
Posted 2017-06-29 1:21 PM (#543135 - in reply to #534814)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



Veteran

Posts: 236
10010025
Location: Morgan Hill, CA		One of the things that has stalled my progress is trying to find a good set of replacement lower ball joints. I've tried several and am avoiding the oversea variety. I have a set of NOS Mopar joints but am shocked at how loose they are. I've read some things that say "Chrysler ball joints are allowed vertical looseness". Still can't bring myself to use these. The 60 year old ball joins that came off feel very tight. I'm used to new ball joints being stiff but these NOS pieces are just way too loose (see video).

I've got a set of older Moog lowers on the way. I've heard the older Moog stuff is really great.

https://youtu.be/a8ivqymcKHk
Top of the page Bottom of the page
Powerflite
Posted 2017-06-29 1:41 PM (#543136 - in reply to #534814)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



Expert 5K+

Posts: 9856
5000200020005001001001002525
Location: So. Cal		I don't understand. If your old ball joints are tight, why are you replacing them? You could just clean them up and replace the boot.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
dlyle
Posted 2017-06-29 1:52 PM (#543137 - in reply to #543136)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



Veteran

Posts: 236
10010025
Location: Morgan Hill, CA
Powerflite - 2017-06-29 10:41 AM

I don't understand. If your old ball joints are tight, why are you replacing them? You could just clean them up and replace the boot.


Yeah, I'm wondering that myself. Just seems 60 year old parts would be worn out. The new ones are Mopar 1843248 which is the same thing thing that is in the car.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
dlyle
Posted 2017-06-29 2:37 PM (#543146 - in reply to #543134)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



Veteran

Posts: 236
10010025
Location: Morgan Hill, CA
Powerflite - 2017-06-29 10:03 AM

Smart move to go to stainless while you still have the good dimensions available.


Stainless hasn't let me down yet. The old exhaust system could be twisted and bent to remove because there was so little that hadn't rusted away. Brake lines are all stainless now too. The Waldron's exhaust I got was all stainless so I thought I might as well have the collectors done to match.

The venturis will be ceramic coated too so they don't rust or deteriorate. I'm toying with the idea of an electric cutout so I have the option of going out the venturi or a turn down. Don't want to ruin my tail light towers.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
1957sotos
Posted 2017-06-29 7:36 PM (#543180 - in reply to #534814)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible


Regular

Posts: 65
2525
I wouldn't let the myth that the exhaust discharge out the bumper corrodes the pot metal towers bother you. I've got several sets from those with and those without the bumper discharge, and
they all corrode the same. Even from Firesweeps that have a blankoff on the back-up socket. It's just normal pot metal. I like how the surround is satin black in the background. Has anyone
tried the spraychrome application on the towers? I've heard horror stories of distortion when trying to do the "normal" chrome plating route. Just looking for an easy way out. The biggest
problem I have with the bumper discharge is the gasses tend to be sucked back into the trunk when going down the road. By driving with the rear vent windows open, this tends to help, even
when running the A/C. Perry
Top of the page Bottom of the page
BSoto
Posted 2017-07-06 5:13 AM (#543623 - in reply to #534814)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



Veteran

Posts: 118
100
Location: Nawth Kerolinuh		1957sotos - you're night about getting the taillight towers rechromed. They're such thin pot metal that they will often distort. When they are buffing them the heat builds up and they tend to get narrower in the back - which shows up after you put them on and the body color shows through because it's too skinny to cover the gap. When I had mine done, one was close enough that we pulled it apart (hold your breath when you do it) and it fit fine. The other one was just too distorted - so I talked with the guy who did chroming. He explained the process and said if I could get another one, and build a wooden buck to go on the back it would help hold the shape during buffing. He also did the plating free the second time, which was a nice gesture on his part. I just traced the outline on a piece of 1" shelving and cut it to fit the inside. Then you have to bevel the edges because the taillight tower flares toward the car. I filed the edges with a rasp until it fit inside pretty snug and sent it along with the new piece to get chromed. This one came back in great shape. If you're going to get them rechromed, do yourself a favor and make a couple of bucks to fit inside them. Its pretty easy to do and the results will look a lot better.

Also - dlyle - incredible car with a great story. I love it. I went through the same thing with the exhaust on my 58 and its a pain to get done, but I vote to do it original. Don't worry about the chrome - if you have to redo a few pieces in 10 years then its not a big deal.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
dlyle
Posted 2017-07-06 11:52 AM (#543649 - in reply to #543623)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



Veteran

Posts: 236
10010025
Location: Morgan Hill, CA
BSoto - 2017-07-06 2:13 AM


Also - dlyle - incredible car with a great story. I love it. I went through the same thing with the exhaust on my 58 and its a pain to get done, but I vote to do it original. Don't worry about the chrome - if you have to redo a few pieces in 10 years then its not a big deal.



I agree. It's been a lot of trouble finding the pieces so I want to celebrate when I see that exhaust coming through the bumpers.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
Powerflite
Posted 2017-07-06 1:09 PM (#543656 - in reply to #534814)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



Expert 5K+

Posts: 9856
5000200020005001001001002525
Location: So. Cal		Thanks BSoto for the great info on using the bucks for polishing.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
flagator10
Posted 2017-07-24 10:49 AM (#544736 - in reply to #534814)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible


Member

Posts: 15

I agree with getting exhaust through the bumper ends. I'd be very interested in the dimensions if your exhaust guy can pass this on as I've not been able to find any as I restore my '57
Thanks!
Top of the page Bottom of the page
dlyle
Posted 2017-08-21 4:27 PM (#546692 - in reply to #534814)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



Veteran

Posts: 236
10010025
Location: Morgan Hill, CA		Finally a little progress. Got most of the front end back on the car and started installing the new stainless steel brake lines too.



(IMG_2124.JPG)



(IMG_2125.JPG)



(IMG_2126.JPG)



(IMG_2127.JPG)



(IMG_2128.JPG)



(IMG_2122.JPG)



Attachments
----------------
Attachments IMG_2124.JPG (114KB - 308 downloads)
Attachments IMG_2125.JPG (112KB - 302 downloads)
Attachments IMG_2126.JPG (119KB - 282 downloads)
Attachments IMG_2127.JPG (94KB - 286 downloads)
Attachments IMG_2128.JPG (81KB - 295 downloads)
Attachments IMG_2122.JPG (94KB - 282 downloads)
Top of the page Bottom of the page
bbrasse1
Posted 2017-08-21 6:33 PM (#546702 - in reply to #534814)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible


Extreme Veteran

Posts: 537
50025
Location: Upstate NY		Nice job!
Top of the page Bottom of the page
dlyle
Posted 2017-08-22 3:19 PM (#546758 - in reply to #534814)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



Veteran

Posts: 236
10010025
Location: Morgan Hill, CA		Thanks. Wish there was more time to work on it. Ive only driven this car about 2 miles so Im ready to get some more miles on this.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
dlyle
Posted 2017-09-06 12:49 PM (#547842 - in reply to #534814)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



Veteran

Posts: 236
10010025
Location: Morgan Hill, CA		A little more work completed on the brakes. Got the new shoes, wheel cylinders, seals, and rubber and hard lines in. Will be going with DOT 5 Silicone all the way.

Waiting on the retainers and springs for the rears. My car didn't have them when I got it.


Edited by dlyle 2017-09-06 12:55 PM




(IMG_2130.JPG)



(IMG_2131.JPG)



(IMG_2132.JPG)



(IMG_2134.JPG)



Attachments
----------------
Attachments IMG_2130.JPG (109KB - 278 downloads)
Attachments IMG_2131.JPG (107KB - 276 downloads)
Attachments IMG_2132.JPG (108KB - 285 downloads)
Attachments IMG_2134.JPG (92KB - 268 downloads)
Top of the page Bottom of the page
dlyle
Posted 2017-09-26 4:38 PM (#549219 - in reply to #534814)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



Veteran

Posts: 236
10010025
Location: Morgan Hill, CA		Finally made a good amount of progress on the Fireflite I was trying to get it ready for a show this past weekend but it didn't happen. I did get it running and driving for the first time in many months though.

The big job was getting the exhaust and front end all back together. That took a lot of doing but is mostly done.

The engine detailing still has a way to go. My intent was to just get the car to move under its own power again. Now that is I need to focus on electrical. I don't think the headlights are supposed to come on when you hit the brakes

On the to do list are, electrical, generator rebuild, possibly a power steering pump rebuild, plugs wires, Pertronix, cap rotor. When I do that I'll pull the valve covers and get them bead blasted and detailed. Then I can paint the spark plug wire covers too.

Edited by dlyle 2017-09-26 4:51 PM




(IMG_2142.JPG)



(IMG_2144.JPG)



(IMG_5569.JPG)



(IMG_5570.JPG)



(IMG_5573.JPG)



Attachments
----------------
Attachments IMG_2142.JPG (132KB - 274 downloads)
Attachments IMG_2144.JPG (120KB - 277 downloads)
Attachments IMG_5569.JPG (105KB - 266 downloads)
Attachments IMG_5570.JPG (124KB - 269 downloads)
Attachments IMG_5573.JPG (111KB - 271 downloads)
Top of the page Bottom of the page
dlyle
Posted 2017-09-26 4:52 PM (#549221 - in reply to #534814)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



Veteran

Posts: 236
10010025
Location: Morgan Hill, CA		This car had been in a 10 plus year slumber but with a little effort and some ATF the power top went down.





(IMG_5565.JPG)



(IMG_5566.JPG)



Attachments
----------------
Attachments IMG_5565.JPG (99KB - 264 downloads)
Attachments IMG_5566.JPG (81KB - 276 downloads)
Top of the page Bottom of the page
dlyle
Posted 2017-09-26 4:55 PM (#549222 - in reply to #534814)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



Veteran

Posts: 236
10010025
Location: Morgan Hill, CA		I love the color combo with the green seats. Need some chrome redone on the windscreen frame pieces by the sun visors.



(IMG_5571.JPG)



(IMG_5575.JPG)



(IMG_5567.JPG)



Attachments
----------------
Attachments IMG_5571.JPG (96KB - 275 downloads)
Attachments IMG_5575.JPG (91KB - 272 downloads)
Attachments IMG_5567.JPG (101KB - 252 downloads)
Top of the page Bottom of the page
dlyle
Posted 2017-09-26 4:59 PM (#549223 - in reply to #534814)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



Veteran

Posts: 236
10010025
Location: Morgan Hill, CA		The 8.00 x 14 Super Cushions look better than I thought too. Wish they were a little bigger but these will do. Need to find a set of good hup caps now. All of mine have curb rash.



(IMG_5574.JPG)



(IMG_5577.JPG)



Attachments
----------------
Attachments IMG_5574.JPG (69KB - 258 downloads)
Attachments IMG_5577.JPG (70KB - 262 downloads)
Top of the page Bottom of the page
dlyle
Posted 2017-09-26 5:05 PM (#549225 - in reply to #534814)
Subject: Re: my "new"' 1957 DeSoto Fireflite convertible



Veteran

Posts: 236
10010025
Location: Morgan Hill, CA		Almost forgot the most fun part. It works and keeps time for many days so far.



(IMG_1854 (2).jpg)



Attachments
----------------
Attachments IMG_1854 (2).jpg (380KB - 265 downloads)
Top of the page Bottom of the page
Jump to page : 1 2 3 4
Now viewing page 2 [50 messages per page]
Jump to forum :
Search this forum
Printer friendly version
E-mail a link to this thread

* * * This site contains affiliate links for which we may be compensated * * *


(Delete all cookies set by this site)