Barn Finds

[h=1]1956 Corvette Pulled From Missouri Basement[/h]
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/5-1956-corvette-front-view-rare-find-e1463761537285-630x354.jpg
There have been been some pretty cool barn finds being discovered lately. Our buddies over at Hot Rod recently featured one of those amazing finds. Longtime writer Jerry Heasley wrote about this 1956 Corvette story in April, 2016, and it’s a good one.


image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/1-1956-corvette-duntov-cam-rare-630x418.jpg
Apparently, only 111 Corvettes were ordered with option code 469, which was the 2×4 barrel carburetors on the standard 265 cid engine, and code 449, the Duntov special high-lift cam that raised output to 240 horsepower. This complete and original Vette was hidden away in Jennings, Missouri, in the basement of the original owner.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/2-1956-corvette-engine-bay-630x418.jpg
Original owner Harold Pohlmann ordered and this ’56 Corvette from Paul Luehrs’ Chevrolet in Mascoutah, Illinois. “He kept a record of every gas purchase from the time he bought the car new until the day he stored it in his basement garage in 1983 and never drove the car again,” according to new owner Bob Kunz.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/6-1956-corvette-interior-630x418.jpg
Pohlmann did not order a radio, and thus the block-off plate. The four-speed is not correct but Kunz has the linkage for the original three-speed.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/10-1956-corvette-notarized-invoice-630x418.jpg
Tragically, Pohlmann, in his 80s, suffered a terrible beating during a home robbery of his gun collection. “In order to take care of him in a nursing home, they had to sell everything he had.”
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/11-1956-corvette-order-form-e1463764250685.jpg
Kunz, who is himself well known as a carburetor rebuilder, had to buy the entire estate, including Mr. Pohlmann’s house and an unfinished Crosley dragster in order to get the Corvette he really wanted.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/8-1956-corvette-duntov-rare-find-rear-630x418.jpg
Kunz wanted a driver, and this virtually original car was just what he needed. Kunz changed the oil, adjusted the tappets, and pulled the carbs to completely rebuild them. Otherwise, he left the engine as is to preserve the original, numbers-matching 265. The new owner cleaned the interior and exterior of the car, and now drives it regularly.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/13-1956-corvette-rare-find-trunk-630x418.jpg
When pulled from the basement, the car had about 41,000 miles on it. No one really knows why Mr. Pohlmann stored the car in 1983. He had replaced the original three speed tranny and the differential in 1962. The original differential is gone, but the original transmission and linkage came with the car.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/1956-corvette-spare-tire-630x418.jpg
Original spare! Apparently, Pohlmann was an enthusiast of Duntov’s racing activities. Kunz found “all the times for Duntov and (John) Fitch and whoever drove these cars at Daytona and Sebring.”
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/14-1956-corvette-original-woodern-spare-tire-cover-630x418.jpg
Original spare tire cover too! What an incredible find! Even if this car was just a plain ’56 Vette, it would have been special. But to have the rare high performance options and full documentation really puts this find over the top. All of us dream of finding such an amazing old car hidden away and forgotten. Except for the terrible circumstances that made this car available to Bob Kunz in the first place, this is as close to a perfect car as you can get, if you are a true fan of barn find stories. We know the new owner is enjoying this car, and can only hope its original owner is doing okay, despite what happened to him.

Tags: American / Chevrolet / Corvette / Stories

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/1956-corvette-pulled-from-missouri-basement/#40RqpobR5KvMB7QZ.99
 
[h=1]Is This The Ideal Project E-Type?[/h] image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/j2-e1463876691454-630x421.jpg
Ok, so it’s not a Series 1 or even a 1-1/2. But that just makes it more affordable! This would be my ideal project E-Type; a true garage find that hasn’t been driven since 1996, but has been stored on a concrete floor and has minimal rust. Jim S. sent in this tempting kitty, which is located entirely too far from me in Marshall, Michigan and is up for sale here on eBay at no reserve!

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/j4-e1463880794528-630x421.jpg
That shiny fender really has you wondering, doesn’t it. As it turns out, the owner had the E-Type stripped to bare metal and repainted shortly after purchase in 1976. Unfortunately, there is some rust poking it’s way back through, but based on the excellent detail pictures provided by the seller I don’t see anything that would worry me too much. I would like to see some under car pictures, though, as there are some E-type rust spots that can be really expensive to repair.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/j6-e1463881196652-630x421.jpg
You can see some of the rust on this closeup of the right rear fender lip. Again, nothing I’m terribly worried about, but I don’t think there’s any hope of keeping this paint intact, and it’s dangerous to leave any rust in an E-Type. Obviously after twenty years in Mom’s garage (thanks, Mom!) you’ll need to replace tires, weatherstripping, hoses, belts and other soft goods. And considering you already know that the clutch needs replacement (that’s why the car was taken off the road in the first place) you can plan on an engine-out period of time. And if you’re doing that, you might as well detail under the hood…oh my, this is how I end up restoring cars instead of enjoying driving them! Follow my lead at your peril!
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/j5-e1463881709507-630x421.jpg
If you are expecting to be let down by the interior, forget it. Apart from a shift boot that needs replacing, the seats have just the right amount of wear to be comfortable. And with air conditioning, the last thing I need is there! Yup, there’s a hole for the radio. Ask me if I care! I don’t want to listen to the radio, I want to listen to that beautiful XK 6-cylinder engine!
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/j7-e1463881999109-630x421.jpg
Speaking of engines, here it is. The seller makes it clear that it hasn’t been started in 20 years, and it looks the part in these shots. It does look complete and unmolested, though, so that’s a plus. That being said, these engines are robust, and this one only has 53,485 miles. It wouldn’t surprise me that after freeing the engine up, rebuilding the Strombergs (gee, I have a kit for those on the shelf) and checking the ignition system if the engine wouldn’t start. So, to me, this is the ideal project E-Type. What yours, and is this it?

Tags: British / Jaguar / Projects

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/is-this-the-ideal-project-e-type/#mDDAUwg6dimlkvQb.99
 
[h=1]Barn Find Tired Triumph: 1971 TR6[/h] image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/t2.jpg
From reader Chuck F. comes this inexpensive but needy barn find Triumph TR6 find just removed from storage in Belle Chasse, Louisiana. It’s listed for sale here on craigslist, where the price is an attractive $1,500 but there’s a lot to be done.

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/t3.jpg
The seller tells us that this was to be a project car and was stored at a friend’s house, but now that storage has been lost and it’s time to sell the car. The pictures are typical craigslist quality, which means they don’t tell us much, but considering the location and the fact that a lot of cars got flooded during Katrina, I’d be very careful about purchasing this one without looking very closely.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Triumph_TR6_1970_10.jpg
Just as a reminder, this is how nice this car once looked. Makes you wonder what happened! The seller tells us that the engine is free, but there’s major rust in the trunk lid and floor boards, and I’m guessing there’s also rust in the typical TR6 spots in the seams of the rear deck, rocker panels and lower front fenders. I’ve repaired all of those, some more than once, and I’ll tell you now rockers and floors on a TR6 are not to be taken on lightly.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/t1.jpg
I would definitely want to do an in-person inspection before pulling the trigger on this one. But bear in mind, if it has the optional Laycock overdrive version of the transmission, that alone could be worth the purchase price. If any of you end up checking this one out, let us know what you find!

Tags: British / Projects / Triumph

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/barn-find-tired-triumph-1971-tr6/#mgIQu0JgccerXIIE.99
 
[h=1]35,500 Miles! 1968 Ford F-100 Survivor[/h] image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/a1-1-e1463895135213-630x421.jpg
This truck looks too clean to be real! The seller states that “a lot” of the two-tone paint is original and that they drive it frequently on weekends to shows and flea markets. Appleton, Wisconsin is where this truck currently resides and it’s up for sale here on craigslist for $19,500. I thought that was pretty expensive at first until I really looked the pictures over. Unusually for a craigslist ad, the pictures are pretty good.

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/a3-2-e1463895588476-630x421.jpg
The clean lines of the fifth-generation F-series trucks debuted one year before this model in 1967. While trucks were still seen as utilitarian, there were increasing efforts to improve driver comfort throughout this period. Cabs were getting larger and featuring more glass area, and the F-100 was no exception. Two-tone paint, chrome bumpers and body side trim were dress-up features on this particular model.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/a2-2-e1463895796360.jpg
The narrow white wall tires, white painted wheels and factory stainless steel center caps really add to the look of this truck to me. Ford offered some full size wheel covers for their trucks, but they were generally modified car versions and really reduced the ruggedness of the look. The factory (thanks, Geomechs) mirrors (I think they are aftermarket?) fit the image of a quality work implement perfectly.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/a5-2-e1463895955920-630x421.jpg
I challenge you to find me a better condition original interior than this one. This truck must really have been someone’s toy–either that, or this is a restoration being passed off as a survivor. I thought at first that the black dash top meant it was a replacement, but about half of the pictures I found of original dashes had black tops with other color interiors, so who knows? (Do you? If so, tell us!)
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/a4-2-e1463896207459-630x421.jpg
The seller says that some “light detailing” has taken place under hood. While things could still be cleaned up, I’d be pretty happy with it as is. The seller doesn’t specify if this is the 240 or 300 cubic inch version of the inline six, (thanks to Charles H., we now know it’s the 240) but either one is pretty torquey and reliable. Assuming it runs as good as it looks, I wouldn’t change a thing. One great feature of this truck is the overdrive, which makes up for only having a three speed transmission offering relatively quiet highway cruising. Yes, it’s a lot of money, but look what new trucks cost now! A 2016 F-150 XLT with the smallest engine starts at $31,905 (MSRP), and it’s pretty easy to option one up to $50,000. Now how does that price look to you?

Tags: American / Ford / Survivor / Trucks

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/35500-miles-1968-ford-f-100-survivor/#iW6B2zYKjmDlSEej.99
 
[h=1]Museum Piece? 7 Mile SVO Mustang[/h] image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/m1-3-e1463704585861-630x416.jpg
It’s pretty common looking through ads for collector cars for the seller to mention something along the lines of “it should be in a museum.” This is one time when I actually agree with the seller, as this 1985 Mustang SVO, an already rare automobile, has only 7 (that’s seven) miles! Not only that, it looks like it’s been stored correctly as well, with shiny paint and supple-appearing rubber. It’s located in Leesville, South Carolina and is listed here on eBay, where bidding is already over $15,000. As you might expect, Jim S. discovered this find!

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/m4-3-e1463704945637-630x421.jpg
With it’s distinctive “ladder back” rear spoiler, rear disc brakes, performance suspension and low profile tires and of course the intercooled 2.3 liter turbo four-cylinder, the SVO Mustang made a lot of waves when it was first introduced. However, a high price and straight line performance that wasn’t quite what folks were looking for doomed the model after a short period. This car is actually one of 1515 produced in 1985, and one of only 229 in this color.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/m2-2-e1463705346175-630x409.jpg
As you can see, it truly is immaculate. Yes, that is the original window sticker that has never been removed from the window, but in the closeup pictures isn’t even faded. Unlike a lot of cars that I have seen stored for a long time, this one genuinely looks like it is still sitting in the dealer’s showroom!
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/m3-2-e1463705447591-630x422.jpg
Apart from the cheesy aftermarket floor mats, which must just be there to protect the original carpet, the interior really looks like a 7 mile car. Unfortunately, this beautiful example wouldn’t work for me, even though I’m a Mustang fan, because I love to drive my cars too much. I wouldn’t have the heart to roll up the miles on this car! If Larry Miller were still around, I’ll bet he would have picked this car up in a heartbeat.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/m5-3-e1463705700889-630x421.jpg
Kudos to the seller for showing a picture of the engine running. Of course, everything is said to run perfectly, and this car even has the optional sunroof and leather to make it even more exclusive. I sure hope this does end up in a museum, because it would be an awesome reference tool to anyone that is trying to restore an SVO. Me, I’ll pass on this one, but tell me–do any of you have cars too rare or too low-mileage to drive at all?

Tags: American / Ford / Mustang / Survivor

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/survivor-doesnt-cover-it-7-mile-svo-mustang/#eGfb7mykEtMLAytO.99
 
[h=1]Special Driver: 1973 Barracuda 340[/h]
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/1973-Plymouth-Barracuda-340-e1463977220183-630x354.jpg

While a Hemi Cuda might be the more desirable muscle car, I would be perfectly happy to own this Barracuda 340. The 340 was definitely an improvement over the 318 and offered a reasonable 240 horsepower. This example has been in storage for the past 18 years. The seller has it back on the road, but has decided to part ways with it. Find it here on eBay in Marlboro, New Jersey.



image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/1973-Plymouth-Barracuda-e1463977266100-630x354.jpg

This car isn’t perfect, it has a non-original transmission but is otherwise in good shape. It’s had an older respray, but the paint looks good. They claim they were able to drive it from Staten Island to New Jersey without any issues, so hopefully it is still running this well.

Tags: American / Muscle Cars / Plymouth

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/1973-plymouth-barracuda-340/#GdFJ7D0YmqHK2MUd.99
 
[h=1]Soggy 1978 Camaro Z/28[/h] image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/1978-Camaro-Z28-e1463978198872-630x354.jpg
This Camaro has a lot going for it! Besides being a dusty barn find, it’s a Z/28 with a 4 speed. That’s a great combo if you ask me! I’d rather have it in black or a bright color, but brown works. There’s just one problem though, this car has some water damage issues. We featured another ’78 Camaro that came out of the same barn, but being a Z/28 makes this one far more desirable. Find it here on eBay in Toms River, New Jersey with bidding just over $1,500.


Tags: American / Camaro / Chevrolet

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/soggy-1978-camaro-z28/#6dSmWvLOi3OA4ily.99
 
[h=1]A Fast Truck: 1979 Dodge Lil’ Red Express[/h] image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/00p0p_2tujTDUoyZ6_1200x900-630x473.jpg
While the late 1970’s were not a good time for performance cars, Dodge was able to pull a neat trick in 1978 with the introduction of the high performance Lil’ Red Express pick up truck. A loophole in emissions regulations allowed this truck to be offered without catalytic converters. In fact, the 1978 Lil’ Red Express pickup was the fastest American passenger vehicle built that year based on a Car and Driver magazine test from zero to 100 mph.


image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/00f0f_2rpJpH3Ht8X_1200x900-630x473.jpg
Dodge made 2,188 examples of this special truck in its first year, powered by a special high performance 360 cubic inch small block, with a four barrel carburetor. This engine was a modified version of the 360 police engine (E58) with output of 225 net horsepower at 3,800 RPM. The package also included Hemi style mufflers with a crossover pipe exiting through two chrome stacks located behind the cab, also a special 727 transmission and 3.55:1 rear gearing.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/00s0s_3bRvqHFnQm3_1200x900-630x473.jpg
In 1979, the Lil’ Red Express package proved even more popular, with 5,118 examples sold. However in this second (and last) year of production, a catalytic converter was required, forcing the use of unleaded gasoline, and presumably, slightly less horsepower, though the looks were just as good. The 1979 version rode on LR60x15 raised white letter tires mounted on good looking 8-inch chrome wheels.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/00i0i_6WUXYtGUDZ1_1200x900-630x473.jpg
While this truck is a well-known collectible, many of them were thrashed when new and there are not many left in all original condition.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/00A0A_eUNz36NfzoA_1200x900-630x473.jpg
The example shown here is for sale in Salisbury, Massachusetts on Craigslist and is claimed by the seller to be “all original” in excellent condition.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/00e0e_65bi9NhnKSL_1200x900-630x473.jpg
The paint and decals look extremely good in the photographs provided. Along with new tires, the seller says the truck also has “new front and rear bumpers, new carpet,” and that does cause one to wonder if this truck is indeed, all original, as claimed. If the bumpers needed replacing, then is the very shiny paint original also? Are those decals factory original as well?
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/00Q0Q_5qE8mvKuJ95_1200x900-630x473.jpg
The word “original” is thrown around by sellers in ways that sometimes cause doubt about the definition of the word, as it is applied to old cars and trucks. For most of us, I think, “original” means that a car is the way it came from the factory, allowing for normal use and wear and tear. We tend to accept that parts like sparkplugs, brake pads, batteries, and the like will have been replaced over time. It’s when we look at paint and interior materials that definitions seem to get fuzzy. When a seller says that a truck is “all original” as this one does, that should mean that the paint, interior, and yes, the bumpers, are what the Dodge factory put there.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/00N0N_kU6b3nFZk3Y_600x450.jpg
Even though this truck really does appear to be in great condition, whether and how much it’s original (or not) will make a big difference to quite a few buyers. That’s something that has to be discussed with the seller, if you are a potential buyer.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/00b0b_gWWH3MDGhjW_600x450.jpg
Regardless of its actual originality, this truck looks terrific and will be fun to drive. It has either been maintained incredibly well, or it’s been repainted and the decals and pinstriping have been redone to a very high level. The seller does not mention the number of miles on the truck. The asking price is $15,000, and given the current values of Lil’ Red Express trucks, this appears to be a reasonable price. In fact, if it really is “all original,” you might not want to drive it the way it was meant to be driven. So ironically, if this truck is indeed wearing a repaint, its new owner might actually be even happier with it. You would not feel so bad then if the paint got chipped while you are on the road driving the hell out of it, as Dodge intended for this truck when it was built. If you like these very cool trucks, read more about them here.


Read more at http://barnfinds.com/a-fast-truck-1979-dodge-lil-red-express/#mxi3hUfpscvJ5IyD.99
 
[h=1]Unconverted: 1974 Triumph TR6[/h] image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/front-left-10-630x354.jpg
This TR6 is listed on eBay in Midvale, Utah with no reserve and bidding is at about $3,500. It’s been stored for almost 30 years. It was being converted to a V8 and the project was abandoned. The seller says he has undone most of the conversion work and most of the original parts are included. The original drivetrain is back in the car. The only rust is superficial. Take a look at this YouTube video for a really good look at the car inside, out and underneath. This is one time, perhaps, when someone knowledgeable of Triumphs could be confident enough in it’s condition, thanks to pictures and the videos, to purchase the car sight unseen on eBay.

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/inside-copy-630x323.jpg
The inside is bare. The original seats are included but they will need upholstery. It will need a new top as well. The floors are as solid as the rest of the car.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/engine-18-630x354.jpg
The engine needs a bit of finishing, including ignition wires, hoses and such.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/right-rear-5-630x354.jpg
This TR6 looks pretty good from every angle. The puzzle is, if this is such a good car, why did they not finish this and get it running? They have put a lot of work into it so far. What would it take to finish this car? Could it be purchased and completed for less than what it’s worth or would you be upside down? One big question is how well was the repair work was done to the floors, engine mounts, etc. Your comments on this are going to be very interesting.

Tags: British / Projects / Triumph

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/unconverted-1974-triumph-tr6/#At8Ieb4wOlW5Uhws.99
 
[h=1]Survivor 1970 Plymouth Cuda?[/h]
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/1970-Plymouth-Cuda-340-e1464027816811-630x354.jpg

The seller of this Cuda 340 claims it is highly original, right down to the paint, but I’m not sure how original it really is. We actually had a look at a different Plymouth earlier today that clearly wasn’t as original as the seller tried to make it out to be. This one looks like it might be a little closer to original, but there are just a few issues I see that leave me wondering if it really is. You can take a look at it for yourself here on eBay in Knightstown, Indiana.



image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/1970-Plymouth-Cuda-Interior-630x420.jpg

There are just a few spots where the paint just doesn’t look right to me. The seller does admit that a few spots have been repainted at some point, so the paint isn’t completely original, just original in spots. I do see some road rash that looks 40 years old, so the majority of the paint might just be all original.

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/1970-Plymouth-Cuda-340-Engine-630x420.jpg

They also admit that the driver’s seat upholstery isn’t original, nor is the engine block. The engine looks to be a warranty replacement from 1970 though, so it is at least a documented engine that wasn’t just recently installed. If this were a Hemi powered car, I’m sure buyers would be more critical of the numbers, but where this is a 340 car I don’t think buyers will be as worried about the engine’s numbers.

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/1970-Plymouth-Cuda-630x420.jpg

Originality is always a tough one for me. I want my cars to be as original as possible, but obviously things happen in 40+ years of use. I’d rather have my car on the road than sitting in the barn not being used because the original engine is damaged beyond repair. So that leaves me wondering how you guys feel about things like engines that were replaced under warranty? If the documentation is there, does it still hurt the value of the car? This one will be interesting to watch unfold.

Tags: American / Mopars / Plymouth

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/survivor-1970-plymouth-cuda/#i1bfUlwIEODrKxgm.99
 
[h=1]Rough 1966 Chevelle SS396 Project[/h] image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/1966-Chevelle-SS396.jpg
The photos of this Chevelle aren’t particularly great, but the seller at least did a good job capturing photos of all the rust issues. And boy is this thing rusty, but it is a real SS396 with it’s original engine and transmission! I’m sure there are plenty of Chevelle fans out there that would love to give it a good home. If you would like to be the one to rescue it, you can find it here on eBay in South Hackensack, New Jersey with bidding at $6k, but be sure to act fast!


image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Chevelle-SS396-Engine-number.jpg
The seller claims this Chevelle is all original. The small photos make it hard to really tell, but it looks like it could actually be original. They do provide photos of the engine numbers and the trim tag, so you can check to see if it is the correct engine.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/1966-Chevelle-SS396-Interior.jpg
The 396 was is a hot ticket, with 325 horsepower and more torque than any rusty classic should ever have. I would want to get this thing structurally sound before ever hitting the road with it. The rust really has me worried, but what about you? I’ve seen worse saved, so hopefully someone will take pity on this Chevelle and save it!

Tags: American / Chevrolet / Projects

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/rough-1966-chevelle-ss396-project/#uUx2LTYteZwVWxSS.99
 
[h=1]Copart Find: 1973 BMW 2002 Tii[/h] image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/707bd229-38c5-4af1-8158-4fb2fff18ef2-630x473.jpg
Over the weekend, one of the biggest annual pilgrimages of vintage BMW owners wrapped up in North Carolina. The event simply known as The Vintage is a bucket list item for me, but I’m waiting until next year to attend once my field-find BMW 320 is completed and road-worthy. In the meantime, cars like this 1973 BMW 2002 Tii spotted here on Copart provide some welcome inspiration for the types of cars that would be wicked road-trip machines en route to a massive gathering of like-minded enthusiasts. Thanks to Barn Finds reader Tony D. for the find!

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/8e2b7e86-7bc5-49dd-9ab9-71a322749d59-630x473.jpg
I don’t know how a desirable car like the Tii ended up on Copart, especially one that looks relatively complete. The listing says it has damage to the rear, but my eyes can’t identify what went so wrong that the only choice was to total it out. Perhaps a previous owner didn’t have collector car insurance, or maybe didn’t care enough to buy it back. The interior looks very close to being OEM correct, right down to the Tii-specific clock mounted on the dash. I can’t tell for certain, but it even looks like a period-correct Blaupunkt radio in the console.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/fcefbda7-d3ff-4ccc-b9b8-e5ed5d3e098d-630x473.jpg
The 1972 Tii’s tend to get all the attention because of their rare plastic intake pipes. The big deal factor comes in because over time, plastic cracks and the pipes were replaced with the more common aluminum intake pipes. This being a ’73 car means it came with aluminum pipes from the factory, and thankfully (well, depends on which side of the coin you’re on) this ’02 retains its original fuel injection system. Some owners had a tendency to swap over to a carb set-up, which was not necessarily an upgrade.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/3a3c6a6f-e21e-4a42-be35-79fe56365f87-630x473.jpg
Perhaps the most desirable aspect of this 2002 (in addition to its paint code and Tii specifications) is that it’s a round tail light model with the smaller chrome bumpers. Overall, there’s very little not to like about this car unless there’s frame damage lurking or a lot more rust present than is immediately obvious based on the photos (I’m looking at you, rear shock towers). I can see some rust beneath the license plate and along the sills, but no way to tell how deep it goes. What do you think this ’02’s history is? Did it belong to an enthusiast at one point or has it lead the life of a used car, being treasured by no one?


Read more at http://barnfinds.com/copart-find-1973-bmw-2002tii/#dcjjTCoouY5fbsCm.99
 
[h=1]Affordable Classic: 1968 Oldsmobile Toronado[/h] image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/t1-1-630x420.jpg
Thanks to reader Charles H., we have here a remarkably original looking, claimed rust-free 1968 Oldsmobile Toronado that isn’t going for a ridiculous price. It’s advertised here in Hemmings Motor News for $7,750 and is located in Columbus, Ohio. I personally prefer the earlier cars, but perhaps the condition of this one outweighs anything else!

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/t3-1-630x420.jpg
By 1968, the Toronado had started to soften a bit from it’s original “GT” intentions. The facelift for the front end was less radical than the original styling, and now you had to order the W-34 option to get the stiffness of the original 1966 Toronado suspension. But the car was still quite capable of covering huge distances almost soundlessly and easily. 1968 was the first year for the 455 cubic inch V8, so torque is certainly not an issue! The vinyl top looks to be in great condition in these pictures, and the single repaint appears to have been a high quality one.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/t2-1-630x420.jpg
Shut lines look pretty decent for this car considering the heavy doors, and the only thing that really detracts from the side views is the ill-fitting aftermarket side mirrors. I was able to find reproduction mirrors here for only $65 each, so it wouldn’t take too much to make these look right as long as the mirror holes will be covered by the bases.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/t4-630x420.jpg
Apparently these unusual combination fabric/vinyl seats are original for the car, although looking at some online makes me wonder if part of the cloth has been replaced with vinyl on the outside panels of the seats. Either way, even with a black interior the factory air conditioning and tinted glass will keep you cool in the summer, and the power steering and brakes will make your trip down the road quite easy. Is that a flasher unit I see hanging down from the dash? The other wire loop has me wondering, too, but there might be a good reason for both of them.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/t5-630x419.jpg
Here’s that 455 (assuming it is the original engine). That may be the longest upper radiator hose I’ve ever seen! The transmission and engine are known for long life as long as they haven’t been abused, and I’m hoping since this car has been kept inside by a collector that it’s in decent mechanical shape as well. Is it worth checking out? I think so if you like these large front wheel drive cruisers–let us know what you think!

Tags: American / Oldsmobile / Survivor

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/affordable-classic-1968-oldsmobile-toronado/#2Mt37ALBhUDXkIlI.99
 
[h=1]Scout Project: 1968 International Harvester Scout[/h] image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/052316-Barn-Finds-1968-International-Harvester-Scout-1.jpg
Thanks to Jim S. for sending in this tip! This is a 1968 International Harvester Scout and it’s located in beautiful Selma, North Carolina; 45 minutes southeast of Raleigh. The owner has it listed on eBay with an asking price of $1,995 or make an offer. The photos aren’t the greatest here, so bear with me.


image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/052316-Barn-Finds-1968-International-Harvester-Scout-2.jpg
IHC made the Scout from 1961 through 1980 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. This is a first-generation (1961 through early-1971) Scout and the seller says that it’s very complete but that it “has a good supply of rust, but doesn’t look bad.” This would be an ambitious project for someone with a welder and other restoration tools and skills, but it’s not an impossible task. The first-generation Scouts should be the most coveted by collectors, and actually this one doesn’t look that bad.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/052316-Barn-Finds-1968-International-Harvester-Scout-3.jpg
That’s a blue tint to the photo, but both the interior and exterior of this Scout are blue. It’s hard to tell from some of the photos if it’s black or blue. You may be a little black and blue after working on this one, it needs a lot of work. Or, it does if you intend to restore it, maybe not so much if you plan on getting it working and just using it without making it a trailer queen.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/052316-Barn-Finds-1968-International-Harvester-Scout-4.jpg
The owner says that the engine isn’t “running but wouldn’t take much to get it going and driving.” It has a fair amount of new parts towards that end, including a new battery, ignition coil, and “a Holley 2 bbl conversion and electric fuel pump,but needs to be hooked up.” It also has a new master cylinder but the brakes will still need more work. You’ll probably want to put all new lines (both fuel and brake) on here anyway. What do you think about this Scout project, what would be the top dollar for this one considering the amount of work that it needs?

Tags: American / International Harvester / Projects / Survivors / Trucks

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/1968-international-harvester-scout/#dZLJH3PTp9t4v2ZO.99
 
[h=1]Frame Job: 1971 Pontiac Trans Am[/h]
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/58f808ed-9677-4f0a-a696-e2715f493676-630x321.jpg

A few days ago, we featured a BMW 2002 Tii on Copart, which had many of us confused as to what the actual issue was with the car. That’s the trouble with Copart classics, as it’s sometimes difficult to discern whether a project vehicle has been in flood or simply neglected. You can ocassionally get lucky and Copart will tell you what went wrong, but not always. In the case of this 1971 Pontiac Trans Am here on Copart, the ugliness is a bit more readily apparent, as this example was sent to a salvage facility with a bent frame. Thanks to Barn Finds reader Michael K. for this find!


image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/460e5f1d-ef11-495b-9e40-2e88814275db-630x473.jpg

When running the Trans Am’s VIN through a decoding site, it does show as being a true TA car. Though it is located at a Copart facility in Rochester, New York, the Trans Am bears a Florida registration. This could mean the car has somehow changed hands through various insurance agencies and salvage lots, or more likely, it formerly belonged to snowbird who kept the vehicle registered in Florida to enjoy the lower taxes levied on vehicles in the Sunshine State (one of the many reasons I’d like to relocate there). The interior is driver-quality at best, and that’s not a bad thing for a cheap project. If it weren’t for the frame damage, we’d be calling this the ultimate survivor.

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/070fe60c-8968-4f88-9d2c-95ee48812fba-630x473.jpg

1971 was a big year for the Trans Am, as the famed 455 made its debut. Although lower compression numbers were quickly becoming a reality, this engine still churned out healthy horsepower and torque numbers. While it’s no Super Duty, this engine and a manual transmission remains a desirable combination. Obviously, one of the big risks of buying a car from Copart is not knowing the health of various mechanical systems, and worse for this car is we don’t know how the frame damage occurred. From this photo and others, I see no obvious evidence of a hard hit – do any of you see any clues either in the engine bay or along the body that might tell us what happened?

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/0a6d6db3-468e-4362-84b4-b4fe0ed66235-e1464290556340-630x322.jpg

There were only two color options for the ’71 model, and this one appears to wear its original Lucerne Blue and white stripe combination. It could be an older repaint, but it certainly appears consistently weathered enough that it could be original. There’s currently a bid of $1,800, but the seller has set a reserve which hasn’t been met. In the photo above, I wonder if the door that’s ajar is indicative of the frame damage underneath. How would you approach this Copart project: is it worth taking a chance on, or are there too many questions that make the risks unappealing? If you are considering it, either an in-person viewing or hiring an inspection service is definitely recommended.

Tags: American / Muscle Cars / Pontiac / Projects

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/frame-job-1971-pontiac-trans-am/#mzYQq4xsFwQG0ydQ.99
 
[h=1]383 Stroker: 1969 Camaro Z/28[/h] image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/1969-Camaro-Z28-630x354.jpg
As I was reading the seller’s description of this Z/28, I just about cried when I got to the part about the car currently being powered by a 383 stroker rather than the original 302. The 302 in these cars was absolutely fantastic and made the Z/28s hot machines. For this one to be without it’s original engine just seems like a shame, but then I continued to read their ad and discovered that while the original 302 is out of the car, it’s still with it! That’s great new for purest and customizers alike. Find this blue beauty here on eBay in Burbank, California with bidding already to $25k.


image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/1969-Camaro-Z28-302-Block-630x354.jpg
So why would having the original engine with the car be so important, well we all know that cars with their original engines are always worth more. In the case of this car, I have a feeling the 383 is no slouch and would be just as much fun as the 302. So if you are the type that likes to tinker and modify, you can continue to upgrade the 383 without hurting the originality of the 302. And if for some reason you get tired of working on this project, you can put the original 302 together, reinstall it in the car and be able to find a buyer that’s willing to pay for a Z/28 with it’s original engine!
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/1969-Camaro-Z28-Interior-630x420.jpg
I’ll admit, I’ve always liked the Mustang just a little bit more than the Camaro, but there’s no denying that the ’69 Z/28 is a good looking car! I would love to have this one. Even if it isn’t a perfectly original survivor, it would be fun to have. Of course there will be lots of work to do to make it a top notch driver. Starting in the interior, a new headliner is needed. The seats look nice throughout, as does the dash. The carpets are faded and either need to be replaced or dyed.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/1969-Camaro-Z28-Engine-630x420.jpg
The seller admits it has some rust issues, as it is originally an Ohio car. So ad rust repair to the list of things to be done. The rust that concerns me the most is the rust the seller describes but doesn’t provide pictures of, that is said to be in the rear section of the frame. It could be a minor fix or could require some serious surgery to remedy. I’d really want to at least see a picture of it before bidding.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/1969-Chevy-Camaro-Z28-630x354.jpg
Yes, this Camaro has some issues, but it’s a Z/28 and is definitely worth saving! Personally, I would rebuild the 302 and get it back in that engine bay right away, well if the rust isn’t terrible that is. They make every pieces to restore this car, so it shouldn’t be too difficult to find what you need to fix it properly. So would you like to have this project in your garage?

Tags: American / Camaro / Chevrolet

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/383-stroker-1969-camaro-z28/#zk3j0DW5MtuzwRyF.99
 
[h=1]Garage Collapse: 1978 Ford Mustang Rallye[/h] image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/13177308_10209565617488379_5922526214466213879_n_zpsucyck17h-e1464124918408-630x367.jpg
At one time, this 1978 Ford Mustang Rallye package here on eBay lived a quiet life in a carport, accumulating a mere 47,041 miles from new. Then, the safety of its storage was shattered when the garage collapsed and gave this pretty pony car the bruises you see here. Unfortunately, the roof collapsing on the car smashed the left T-top glass and dented the top of the windshield. Is it worth repairing? The car is located in Washington state with the reserve unmet.

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/13164195_10209565623928540_6135359310287074875_n_zpshqa5gh9v-e1464124951331-630x354.jpg
The interior on this Mustang looks fantastic. Given how many of these we’ve seen over the years with roached-out insides, this is a refreshing change of pace. Tan is not an easy color to keep clean after all of these years, so that carport must have done a good job of protecting the Mustang from sun damage before it collapsed. The steering wheel looks mint as well, and you have to love a seller who actually vacuumed the car out before posting pictures of it! The Rallye packaged consistent of some handling improvements and color-coordinated cloth seats.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/13151412_10209565621968491_5989431797813736439_n_zps5l9oxbyu-e1464124969778-630x345.jpg
Now, for the really bad news: it’s a six-cylinder. The seller says the car feels pretty gutless, which I don’t think will be affected by his recommendation of a proper tuneup. None of the engines in this Mustang range were particularly powerful, but at least the V8 could get up and go when provoked. Unless you swap this motor out, plan on owning a leisurely cruiser vehicle – configurations like these are why the lower-spec Mustangs have sometimes earned the title of being a secretary’s car. Still, with the T-tops popped out and the windows down, I’d be fine with taking my time.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/13173634_10209565618288399_1757965874126544701_n_zpsyewljqdx-e1464124990403-630x361.jpg
In my opinion, the real attraction is the clean body and interior, low miles and T-top roof. Unfortunately, that roof is going to be one of the bigger challenges. My suspicion is that fixing that section of the windshield can be tricky, given it’s already a bit weaker structurally thanks to the T-tops. Or perhaps it’s an easy fix, because access is so generous. I’ll leave it up to our readers to weigh in on whether fixing this Mustang’s bruises are a walk in the park or painful enough that it renders this ’78 Rallye package a part-out candidate. What do you think?

Tags: American / Ford / Projects

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/garage-collapse-1978-ford-mustang/#gPbzPtiQJUOxFtlc.99
 
[h=1]Cleaned Up Nicely: 1968 Chevelle Malibu[/h] image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/left-front-6-630x354.jpg
This Chevelle was in a barn for almost 30 years. It’s totally original, numbers matching, rust free and original. It started easily after the usual tune up and tank flush. It’s listed on craigslist in Atlanta for $17,500. That seems like a lot of a 327, automatic Chevelle, but it is really nice and original. The paint was redone in the late 1970s. There is a little body damage.


image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/in-garage-e1464226383403.jpg
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/left-rear-dirty-e1464226451565.jpg
And here it is before being cleaned up and “re-tired”.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/dash-12-630x473.jpg
They don’t show much of the interior, but it looks like it should clean up OK. It appears to be a factory AC car.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/right-front-3-630x473.jpg
They don’t give you much more than a peek under the hood, but it looks complete and unmolested. The AC bits seem to be there as well.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/under-8.jpg
It looks pretty solid on the bottom side as well. It’s not covered in undercoating, so nothing is hidden and there appears to be only surface rust.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/left-6-630x473.jpg
The seller is offering a built 396 and a 4 speed for an additional $6800. I can easily imagine the buyer wanting a 4 speed and more power. Perhaps the buyer will keep the original engine and trans in case someone wants to go back to original. I’d enjoy it just as it is. I’m not so sure about the rally wheels and tires combination, but it’s better than those wire caps. It’s a lot of money to spend for a driver, especially one with manual drum brakes. I’m thinking this Chevelle will spark a lot of folks imagination, so your comments should be interesting.


Tags: Chevrolet / Muscle Cars / Survivors

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/cleaned-up-nicely-1968-chevelle-malibu/#5QIg5M61Wc4SiML4.99
 
[h=1]Clipped Wings: 1956 Ford Thunderbird[/h] image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/left-front-4-e1464101192191.jpg
1955 to 1957 Thunderbirds are popular cars and nice examples can sell for crazy money. The $9,000 asking price for this project for sale on craigslist in Roseville, California reflects those prices. The seller has done a lot of work, including having the engine rebuilt, and lots of parts are included, many new. The seller has provided lots of pictures, 5 pages in great detail. This project appears to be a case where the light at the end of the tunnel wasn’t getting any brighter. He has likely sunk a lot more than $9,000 into this T-Bird.


image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/inside-8-e1464101219232.jpg
The interior looks mostly complete and ready for door panels and upholstery.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/unser-e1464101326472.jpg
What you can see of the underside looks pretty solid.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/right-6-e1464101346421.jpg
It’s going to need lots of bodywork. $9,000 seems like a lot of money for this car, but compared to this one listed on Craigslist for $4,200, the price doesn’t seem so high. If you didn’t include your labor, (and did all the body and paint work yourself) could you restore this for $10,000? Would you leave it stock or add things like bucket seats and a modern front end? What do you think this old bird is really worth as it is? I look forward to seeing your comments?

Tags: Ford / Projects

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/clipped-wings-1956-ford-thunderbird/#B2YTvh8xxleHkOQ5.99
 
[h=1]A Few More Miles: 1978 Corvette Anniversary[/h] image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/1978-Corvette-Anniversary-630x420.jpg
A few days ago we featured our buddy Chip Lamb’s most recent find, an anniversary Corvette that has just 4 original miles. Well the one you see above has just a few more miles, alright quite a few more miles, but it’s also not bid up to $90k! It’s absolutely astonishing how much ultra low mileage classics go for these days. So this other ’78 Anniversary Corvette has 63k miles and isn’t quite as nice. It’s also an L-82 with a 4-speed. Find it here on eBay in Old Hickory, Tennessee with bidding at $3,150!


image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/1978-Corvette-Engine-630x354.jpg
Yes this car doesn’t have the appeal of Chip’s car, but if seeing his has got you interested in the 25th anniversary Corvette, this one seems like a much more affordable alternative! While I get the desire for a 4 mile car, I’d rather save my money and buy one I can drive. Or perhaps the buyer of the other car while buy this one too? That way they have one to show and one to drive!
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/1978-Corvette-Interior-630x420.jpg
1978-Corvette-Interior-630x420.jpg

As you can see, this car isn’t in nearly as nice of condition as the other. Looking this one over, I can see why people are willing to pay so much more for ultra low mileage cars that are still like new. This car is going to need attention in just about every area, from the outside to the inside.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/1978-Corvette-630x420.jpg
While I can’t afford $90k for late ’70s Corvette, I could afford this $3k example. Of course it’s going to cost a lot more than that to get it running and driving, but I could at least spread the expense out over a few years. I’m not sure I would want to invest much into a late ’70s Corvette, but this one has a lot going for it from the options standpoint and could be a fun car to work on! So which would you rather have? The high dollar 4 mile car or the cheap 63k mile project?

Tags: American / Chevrolet / Corvette

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/a-few-more-miles-1978-corvette-anniversary/#FPq7zrWpTxMss73M.99
 
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