Barn Finds

[h=1]Rust Free & Ready? 1966 Jaguar E-Type[/h]
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/j3-e1479401862321-630x373.jpg

Typically when we feature an E-Type on Barn Finds, we find rust. A lot of it. This car has paint that is truly awful (unless you like satin silver) but the seller tells us there is no rust and that it’s ready for you to cosmetically restore it. The coupe is for sale here on eBay and is located in Laveen, Arizona. Bidding is up to $17,600 as I write but hasn’t yet met the reserve.


image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/j4-630x419.jpg

The seller tells us that the paint looks the way it does due to having been stored under plastic for nearly 20 years. In most areas, that would be the kiss of death to the metal, but in dry Arizona perhaps you can get away with it. I do see what looks like it might be some rust on the rear valence here, though. Do you think that’s rust?

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/j2-630x419.jpg

Part of the attraction of any E-Type is the typically British interior. This one looks completely original. I’m wondering if it’s possible to replace the torn leather portions and save the rest with cleaning and treatment. I’m a big fan of worn but not worn out leather seats! The big original steering wheel and the purposeful looking shifter add to the ambiance. The odometer is showing 89,900 miles and I can believe it looking at the inside. I wish we knew more about the history of the car–why was it stored in the first place? Was it a long-term single owner car? Was anything done with the car during its storage period?

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/j1-630x419.jpg

While there is some surface corrosion under here, it does look remarkably good compared to a lot of other E-Types for sale. I wish the seller would tell us whether or not the engine was free, or if attempts have been made to start it. I see those three SU’s and want to try myself! Would you?

Tags: British / Jaguar / Project

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/rust-free-ready-1966-jaguar-e-type/#jtf6DCwpGyM7ymjB.99
 
Nice Little Muscle car.
[h=1]Masquerading Muscle Car: 1972 Rally Nova[/h]
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/1972-Rally-Nova-630x394.jpg

Some people are more worried about looks than they are about actual performance. Chevrolet figured that out long ago and has been offering affordable, but fast-looking versions of their top performers for years. Take this 1972 Nova for example. It came with the stripes and the rally wheels, but was lacking where it really counted. Fitted with a two-barrel 350, it wasn’t exactly a fire breathing monster. It was cheaper to buy and insure though. This particular one was stashed away in a barn until the current owner pulled it out and proceeded to make it their daily driver. It’s now listed here on eBay for $10k or best offer.



image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/350-Badge-630x394.jpg

We have to give the seller props for using this Nova on their daily commute. Many people buy old cars and just park them in their garage, but driving a car is the best way to find all the faults and get them fixed. The brake system should always be your number one priority when bringing a car out of long term storage. New hoses, pads, and fresh fluid went in. No mention is made of the master cylinder so that might be on the next owner’s to do list. A new clutch went in though so that makes up for it.

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/350-V8-2V-L65-630x394.jpg

Sounds like someone also installed a four-barrel carb and intake so perhaps there’s a bit more muscle here than we initially thought. The 350 V8 is be one of the cheapest and easiest engines to upgrade, so honestly I could see the appeal of these when they were new. Budget minded enthusiasts could buy them and add speed parts when they had enough saved up. A four-barrel carb, hotter cam, and breathed upon heads could really make a big difference here. I’m not so sure what the draw is today though.

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Rally-Nova-Stripe-630x394.jpg

Well, like I said, some people are more concerned about looks than anything else. This was the most plentiful year for the Rally Nova with over 33k built. This car doesn’t appear to be all original and there’s some serious rust in the rear fenders. Still, the 350/3-speed combo and Rally Nova package do make it desirable. Just be sure to get proof that this is a real RPO-YF1 car before making an offer. What do you think – would you pay a premium for an appearance package or are you more concerned with what’s under the hood?

Tags: American / Chevrolet / Drivers / Muscle Cars

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/masquerading-muscle-car-1972-rally-nova/#9CgU29wvGgCVTomK.99
 
Bidding will only go higher on this Blue Chip Gen 2 Vette.

[h=1]Meticulously Maintained: 1963 Corvette Split Window[/h] image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/1963-Corvette-Coupe-Survivor-630x354.jpg
It doesn’t matter whether you collect Porsches, Ferraris or Corvettes, you always want to find the best example you can and that typically means finding one that has been stored most of its life, but has been meticulously cared for. Well by the looks of it, this is one of those cars that many of us dream of finding parked in a garage. For one, it’s a split window Corvette Coupe, something lots of people are hunting for. Add in the fact that the previous owner has taken immaculate care of it and you have the kind of survivor we would want to buy! You can find this beautiful Split Window here on eBay in Bedford, Pennsylvania with bidding to $44k.


Tags: American / Corvette / Survivors

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/meticulously-maintained-1963-corvette-split-window/#v1uPzuLQfvJk0FiD.99
 
First time I've seen one of these. [h=1]ASC/McLaren Special: 1986 Mercury Capri[/h] image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/1986-McLaren-Capri-Convertible-630x354.jpg
Ford’s Fox platform was quite versatile and served as the base for a wide array of vehicles. Of course, most of us associate it just with the Mustang. However, it was used for all kinds of family sedans, coupes and hatchbacks wore the names of Lincoln, Mercury and LTD. One of my favorites to use this platform is the Mercury Capri, although it’s really just a restyled Mustang. While the Mustang was offered as a convertible, Mercury opted to only offer the hatchback body. The good people at ASC/McLaren decided to corner the market on drop top Capris, so they got Ford to send them a small number of hardtops to be customized. They also built some tuned coupes, which are quite cool too. This Capri is one of their convertible conversions and is one of about 350 built. It needs a complete restoration, but would be a fun driver! You can find this rare drop top here on eBay in Deerfield Beach, Florida with a BIN of $1,950!


Tags: American / Mercury / Projects

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/ascmclaren-special-1986-mercury-capri/#ecYZFSxFShF9BV8o.99
 
[h=1]Short Take: 1977 Triumph Spitfire–A Bargain?[/h] image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/e1-2-e1479495522145-630x354.jpg
We don’t have much to go on for this little Triumph Spitfire 1500, but maybe you don’t need much information at this price! It’s available here on craigslist in Roanoke, Virginia and is listed for only $1,100–and it runs, has new tires and the factory metal hardtop!

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/e2-2-e1479493563398-630x403.jpg
Not only does it run, but the interior, although not original upholstery, doesn’t look bad at all. It needs a gear shift knob, dash control knobs and you can bet there’s a good reason that center dash panel has been unscrewed. More than likely it has to do with the lighting switch that’s in the middle of that panel. The hard top on this one means you can use it in chilly weather as well, as Spits of this vintage actually have pretty decent heaters and fans. It also stiffens up the body on frame structure considerably. If I didn’t have so many Triumph projects already, I’d be going after this one myself! Let us know if one of you does!

Tags: British / Drivers / Triumph

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/short-take-1977-triumph-spitfire-a-bargain/#qhjWTGAWPWKP81tW.99
 
Crazy Paint Job and Crazy Price. With a Good Regular Paint Job this car would be a Nice Ride for 25-30 K.
[h=1]Lovesick Show Car: 1973 Chevy Camaro[/h]
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/funny1-e1479672406682-630x350.jpg

Bear with me on the post title: you’ve got to see the detail of this crazy paint job up close to understand! This 1973 Chevy Camaro has quite a story to tell, and the seller has done a great job documenting and preserving its history, while also making some subtle improvements to make the car a better driver. You’ll find it here on eBay with a Buy-It-Now of $49,950 and only 28,650 original miles!


image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/funny5-e1479672438130-630x413.jpg

See what I mean above lovesick? These images populate the paint throughout, of a man and a woman locked in a romantic embrace with an impressive landscape in the background. That’s sweet and all, and I suppose indicative of the era in which this car was made. I’d love to understand the motivations behind 70s paint jobs like these, and I’d also like to know why the original owner bought a Camaro instead of a porthole’d Dodge or Chevy van!

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/funny2-e1479672455980-630x354.jpg

The current owner tells us quite a tale about the original owner decking out his newly purchased Camaro, and then hitting the skids shortly thereafter. He went to his pastor for a loan to keep making payments, and the pastor agreed – provided he held title and rights to the car. The owner couldn’t pay his bills, so the pastor took ownership of the Camaro and it sat in his garage until his passing. Wouldn’t you like to know if the original owner has seen his pride and joy for sale?

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/funny3-e1479672471873-630x368.jpg

Though the Camaro still wears its low mileage proudly, the seller did make some enhancements, including boring out the 350 to make a true 383. He also installed vintage factory air conditioning and supposedly made a host of other improvements, but that information has yet to be posted. Interestingly, he is up front about the $23,222 price he bought the car for on eBay a few years ago, so the question is whether his improvements justify the $50K asking price. What do you think?

Tags: American / Chevrolet / Muscle Cars / Survivors

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/lovesick-show-car-1973-chevy-camaro/#MmBGR4KuAdIEwrGi.99
 
Has a 429 !!!
[h=1]Air Force Officer Owned: 1970 Ford Torino GT[/h] image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/DSC09076_zpsgcxruavx-e1479660484481-630x363.jpg
I did a double take at first because this 1970 Ford Torino GT seemed quite familiar to me. Credit the factory “laser stripe,” which must have been a popular feature, for my deja vu: we profiled a similar car back in June. Well, this example is indeed a different car, and it has those trick hideaway headlights everyone goes nuts for. You’ll find the Torino here on eBay where bidding is just under $5K with the reserve unmet.

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/428a-e1479660519935-630x370.jpg
This big-block equipped Torino is said to have belonged to an Air Force officer from new and remained in his family’s care ever since. I feel like throughout history, military personnel have always had excellent tastes in cars, no matter which country the vehicle hailed from. The Torino is a matching-numbers example and is said to fire right up, but the seller still recommends a thorough mechanical refresh before daily driving it.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/429c-e1479660539578-630x373.jpg
The interior features “Ginger Knit Vinyl” which the seller says is in excellent condition. It’s probably acceptable for the age but I still see a fair amount of work needed inside. The other area of concern is the rear lower quarters, which are quite rusty, and the seller also references dings and dents incurred while the car was in storage. The dash pad looks to be in good shape and areas of polished trim still look shiny.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/429d-e1479660560284-630x406.jpg
The 429 is a motor that should certainly deliver plenty of smiles when running smoothly, and is a nice match for a big cruiser like this Torino GT. About the only departure from originality are the hubcaps, and the seller indicates he may be able to track down the correct pieces. All told, this does look like a nicely presented driver with some bodywork needed, but it all depends on what the reserve is.

Tags: American / Ford / Muscle Cars / Projects

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/air-force-officer-owned-1970-ford-torino-gt/#YYd9dTtMSR9dypmH.99
 
[h=1]Ready To Be Finished: 1964 Corvette L76[/h]
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/1964-Corvette-L76-630x381.jpg

The seller doesn’t offer much in the way of this Corvette’s history. They state that it’s a barn find and they provide this one photo of it sitting in a garage with junk piled on it. I’m going to guess this is how they found it, as it’s a bit cleaner in their other photos. The seller doesn’t say which 327 it has in their ad, but one of their photo’s reveals that it is an L76 car with the 4 speed manual transmission. Now for those of you that don’t know your Corvettes, the L76 was the highest output carbureted Vette you could in ’64 with 365 horsepower on tap! It’s been pulled out of storage and is now up for grabs here on eBay in Union, New Jersey with bidding already to $26k.



image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/1964-Corvette-Convertible-L76-630x354.jpg

I can’t tell if someone was repairing this car after being in a collision or if they were just restoring it, but it looks like a lot of body work as already been done. The seller claims it’s ready for paint, but I see a few areas that still need some work. It sure would look good finished up, especially with the hard top on and the blacked out steelies.

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/1964-Corvette-Interior-630x354.jpg

The inside is looking really nice, but if the mileage really is just 53k, it really should be in good shape still. The seller claims the car runs and drives, although the front looks a bit high to me in their photos and they don’t provide any shots of the engine bay. They also claim the engine and wiring have both been gone through, so maybe the engine was out of the car when these photos were taken.

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/1964-Corvette-Convertible-630x354.jpg

A triple black C2 Corvette is definitely on my list of dream cars. With some work, this could be one killer machine, but it’s going to take a bit to get it there. I would like to know more of the history, like what the front end has been repaired. So am I the only one that would love to have an L76 just like this one sitting in my garage?

Tags: American / Corvette / Projects

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/ready-to-be-finished-1964-corvette-l76/#YmJhm7ZfcWYHoI0f.99
 
[h=1]Stored 32 Years: 1966 Chevrolet Chevy II Nova SS[/h] image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/112116-Barn-Finds-1966-Chevrolet-Nova-SS-1-e1479762416564-630x370.jpg
Let’s see a show of hands for everyone who dreams about opening some long forgotten garage and finding something like this? I thought so; me, too. This 1966 Chevrolet Chevy II Nova SS is in Owego, New York and can be found here on eBay with a current bid of just under $5,000, but the reserve isn’t met. There are six days left on this auction. This one will probably surprise me, and also make me very sad that these cars are out of my price range.


image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/112116-Barn-Finds-1966-Chevrolet-Nova-SS-2-630x354.jpg
Chevrolet redesigned the Chevy II in 1966 and this car is the first year of that new body style. For $159 (around $1,170 today), a 1966 Chevy Nova 400 buyer could get the Super Sport package. SS wheel covers were part of that package, and this car looks like it has exactly one, with all of the other three wheels wearing different rims. Wheel covers probably aren’t what most folks would want on a performance car, or at least on a sporty car, but I love that look and, luckily, the seller mentions that all four wheel covers come with the car. This car was originally Lemonwood Yellow, which is by far my favorite color for these cars. It’s a bummer that it was painted the current (literally) purple’ish, red’ish, magenta’ish color sometime in the 1980s, but there probably aren’t many folks here who would want a ’66 Chevy Nova SS in yellow with wheel covers other than me!
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/112116-Barn-Finds-1966-Chevrolet-Nova-SS-3-630x473.jpg
This car is a mixed-bag of.. stuff; improvements, or what someone thought were improvements over the years. You can see the automatic floor shifter in-between the seats, but you can also see what is now a dead third-pedal. Yes, this was a manual car that was converted to be an automatic. Doesn’t that usually go the other way? The seller says that they have a new interior kit for this car, which is nice because it’ll need one. The seat backs look good as does the back seat, so maybe just the door panels and seat bottoms need to be tweaked. The body is in decent shape, no doubt from being off of the street for over three decades. You’ll have the usual work to do here, though, unless you just want to get things working and drive it while you pick away at it over the next couple of years.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/112116-Barn-Finds-1966-Chevrolet-Nova-SS-4-630x473.jpg
The seller has the VIN blocked out other than the first three numbers, so there’s no telling what this engine is. It could be a 283 or a 327, who knows. The seller was “told” that it’s a 327 SBC, but as with all ads, just because someone told someone something does not make it the gospel. Can I get an amen on that? Thank you, brothers and sisters. We’ve all been (insert un-pc phrase here) by buying something that we were told was something when in fact it turned out to not be that special thing. But, a quick run of the numbers should tell you what this is, if you can talk the seller into getting those numbers to you. I’m sure that they’re totally honest and just haven’t run the numbers yet, they just started a business and don’t have time to restore this car which is why it’s for sale. This looks like a nice spare-weekends project if anyone has the room for yet another spare-weekends project. I wish that I had the room, although I’d want to restore it back to bone-stock spec. That yellow with black interior, manual transmission, and wheel covers is a great look, in my opinion. Is this Super Sport worth restoring or would it be better to just get it working and drive the wheels off of it as is?


Tags: American / Chevrolet / Projects / Survivors

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/stored-32-years-1966-chevrolet-chevy-ii-nova-ss/#g6vDQzRpjqPKyF8j.99
 
Tri Five Chevys are common enough at summer car shows. This Buick would make a nice resto mod.
[h=1]Nice Driver: 1956 Buick Special[/h]
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/56-buick-survivor-1-630x354.jpg

We love 56 Buicks! Especially this 2 door hardtop model. In ready to drive condition, this 56 Buick Special is a nice example. The engine and tranny have been rebuilt and really this Buick needs nothing to be enjoyed as-is. With 6 days remaining in the auction, this Buick has reached $3,000 with no reserve. Find it here on ebay out of Mahopac, New York.


image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/56-buick-survivor-3-630x420.jpg

The 322 cubic inch “Nail Head” V8 and two-speed automatic transmission have been rebuilt and are in good health. The power steering operates properly as well and the engine bay wears an even coat of black paint showing little in the way of rust or corrosion.

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/56-buick-survivor-5-630x420.jpg

The blanket technique has been executed on the front seat, so we assume it’s due for a recover. Overall the interior looks reasonable. There are some good and bad things to point out though. The seats need some attention, as the front has already been mentioned, the back looks to have originally been blue, but that someone made the decision to spray paint it black. The door panels are present, but need a complete restoration. They suffer from sagging vinyl, but the driver side in particular is in poor condition. There is an updated cd player built into a small audio console that also doubles as a cup holder. This small console was a delicate way to go about adding modern tunes to this Buick, as it could easily be removed. The dash and steering wheel are very nice in this Buick, making for an easy interior restoration. Examining the body reveals a mostly rust free body. In fact the only rust we could really find was in the driver side door jam, and some minor bubbling in the rockers. The paint is the biggest drawback of the exterior, but this patina may not put off everyone. The chrome bits are nice with some minor rust, and minor pitting.

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/56-buick-survivor-6-630x354.jpg

This Buick is right on the edge of one of three paths. The first path being a full on restoration, the second being a partial restoration, and the third being maintained as is. We love the look of this Buick, but we would at the least make some moves on the interior of this one. What would you do with this ’56 Buick Special?

Tags: American / Buick / Driver / Original

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/nice-driver-1956-buick-special/#gER8pKbkkv2dTO6Y.99
 
[h=1]Menacing Machine: 1970 Ford Torino GT[/h] image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/1970-Torino-GT-630x355.jpg
It may be a little rough around the edges, but I think this could be a fun driver with a little work. The exterior is ratty, but the inside isn’t too bad and the 351 could be made to scream. Someone obviously started “working” on the car before parking it in 2008. It is drivable, but I would plan on addressing its needs soon. It’s located in Mahopac, New York and is listed here on eBay where bidding is currently at $3,700.


image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Blue-Bench-Seat-630x354.jpg
The light blue over bright blue color scheme actually isn’t too bad. That bench seat looks nice, but the velvet dash cover needs to go as does the custom speaker box in the trunk. Drop a new molded carpet in here and things probably wouldn’t be too bad.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/351-V8-630x355.jpg
There’s a two-barrel carburetor on top of that 351 right now, so I would suggest you source a four-barrel intake and carb right away. Later on you could add a cam, headers, and some better breathing heads. Then if you wanted to get real ambitious, you could stick a shift kit in the tranny and some new gears in the rear end. Checkout this scan of a Muscle Parts catalog for more ideas.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Menacing-Look-630x284.jpg
I really enjoyed my ’69 Torino, but always liked this body style. The rust appears to be minimal here so it could make a great restoration candidate. Personally, I would clean it up and focus on the mechanicals before dropping too much money into it. Most people start sanding the body before finding out how much a new paint job costs. It looks like that may have happened here, so make sure you don’t make the same mistake.

Tags: American / Ford / Projects

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/menacing-machine-1970-ford-torino-gt/#WrxRfjD95jwGCFmi.99
 
[h=1]Unbelievable! 1969 Yenko Chevelle With Only 1,200 Miles![/h] image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/b1-5-630x387.jpg
Undoubtedly, the 1,200 original documented miles on this 1969 Yenko Chevelle were mostly acquired 1/4 mile at a time! This is a genuine two-owner Yenko with documentation from day one when it was delivered to a dealer in Hinsdale, Illinois. It will be sold at auction in January in Kissimmee, Florida–you can learn about it here.

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/b2-5-630x383.jpg
The stance, wide tires in the back and skinny ones in the front make the purpose of this one of ninety-nine (!) car very clear. Nick Morocco was the original owner and campaigned the car throughout the Midwest after purchasing it–and making one very important change. The original L72 iron head 427 was replaced with an aluminum head 427 race engine right away, but unlike what you would expect, the original engine has stayed with the car.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/b5-5-630x372.jpg
In 2003, the Butternut Yellow car was sympathetically restored cosmetically by “the renowned Supercar Workshop in Latrobe, Pennsylvania” and was also freshened mechanically. Obviously, the car has been kept very carefully since then.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/b3-3-630x361.jpg
As you might expect given the mileage and the care, the interior looks mint. Of course, gauges were added to keep track of things for racing purposes. I find it interesting that a bench seat was specified rather than a bucket; of course, perhaps the assumption was that a racing seat would be installed instead.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/b4-4-630x387.jpg
Here’s the heart of any Yenko modified car; the engine. Since this one is the “almost original” racing engine (remember, the real original engine is included as well) it even offers more horsepower than the L72’s claimed 425 horsepower (generally believed to be higher, but downrated for insurance reasons). The claim in the auction listing is 450 horsepower; honestly, it wouldn’t surprise me if there were even more than that! How many chances do you get to drive history? I know I’d love the chance! What do you think this Butternut beauty will sell for?

Tags: American / Chevrolet / Race Cars / Survivor

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/unbelievable-1969-yenko-chevelle-with-only-1200-miles/#z6X4wde8XVbKZ2Vc.99
 
A Winter Barn find.
[h=1]S’no Foolin’! 1973 AMF Harley-Davidson Y440[/h]
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/112216-Barn-Finds-1973-Harley-Davidson-440-Snowmobile-1-630x630.jpg

Never seen snow! Just kidding, but it’s not too often that a person sees a snowmobile sitting on gravel. This one is a 1973 AMF Harley-Davidson Y440 and it’s listed on eBay. The current bid price is just under $120 (!!) and there are four more days left to get your shipper lined up. They’ll want to know that it’s located in the remote, northern town of Libby, Montana, where they know a thing or two about snow. Plan on adding a few hundred dollars onto the final price if you’re 2-3-4-5+ states away from Montana. This Y440 should be at least in the mid-to-high-hundreds of dollars by now if not more, this one could be a steal!



image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/112216-Barn-Finds-1973-Harley-Davidson-440-Snowmobile-2-630x630.jpg

Much like the Harley-Davidson / Aermacchi motorcycle saga, the Milwaukee company’s foray into the snowmobile market was filled with mergers and acquisitions, changes and stagnation, successes and failures, joys and heartaches… jeez, well, maybe it wasn’t that bad. But, after five short few years of producing some very cool and now very sought after sleds, they were out of the snowmobile business.

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/112216-Barn-Finds-1973-Harley-Davidson-440-Snowmobile-3-630x630.jpg

AMF Harley-Davidson snowmobiles had a fascinating history and for anyone interested in snowmobiles, a set of books by Mr. Pierre Pellerin called “Snowmobile History“, a three-volume set, is among my most prized possessions. He explains that with a hostile takeover on the horizon in 1969, Harley-Davidson merged with American Machine and Foundry (AMF). AMF had been producing a snowmobile called the Ski-Daddler since 1966 and by 1971 the combined company decided that they could sell more Harley-Davidson branded snowmobiles so they stopped production on the Ski-Daddler and concentrated on the new Harley-Davidson line. Willie G. Davidson designed what would be the new Harley-Davidson snowmobile, although it was built on a 1971 Ski-Daddler frame. By 1975, along with a myriad of other snowmobile manufactures, for a variety of reasons, AMF Harley-Davidson got out of the snowmobile business.

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/112216-Barn-Finds-1973-Harley-Davidson-440-Snowmobile-4-630x630.jpg

This is the 433 CC, twin-cylinder model, the Y440, with 37 hp. The company also offered a 398 CC model called the Y400 in 1973 and it had a white cab as opposed to the black cab (both had blue and red accents) on the Y440 model as seen here. These engines were made by Aermacchi in Italy which Harley-Davidson had purchased a large share of back in 1960, and they also made Harley-Davidson’s small motorcycle line in this same era. This Y440 was bought new in Sacramento, California and was with the first owner for 42 years. It has supposedly spent its entire life in the northern mountains of Idaho; I’m jealous! This one has an amazingly-low 131.8 miles on it and, as you can see, it’s not perfect looking but it starts, runs, and rides perfectly. It has a new drive belt, plugs, and battery and it has been meticulously maintained. All the lights and other electrical systems work like new, as well. This will be a great deal if this one stays below $1,500, but then there’s the shipping to think about. I know that a big portion of Barn Finds fans aren’t in areas that even get snow, let alone have ridden or owned a snowmobile. But, hopefully everyone can appreciate the history, design, and engineering of the AMF Harley-Davidson snowmobiles even if it’s a foreign concept to have fun in the snow!

Tags: American / Harley Davidson / Italian / Snowmobile / Survivors

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/sno-foolin-1973-amf-harley-davidson-y440/#dAPGfhIY1kPro6Wf.99
 
Last edited:
[h=1]Less Than 50,000 Miles: 1973 Trans Am[/h]
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/73-trans-am-1-630x420.jpg

Wearing an uncommon shade of green this ’73 Trans Am is a beautiful survivor. Having covered only 47,000 miles this is a Brewster green dream come true. With 5 days remaining, bidding has reached $25,100. Find it here on ebay out of Lincoln, Nebraska.


image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/73-trans-am-4-630x420.jpg

The large and powerful 455 cubic inch V8 is in good health and looks pretty clean despite some paint chipping and mild corrosion. The massive hood scoop, and its paint look quite nice though there is some mild wear, or paint chipping on the front edge of the scoop. Equipped with power steering, air conditioning, power brakes, and an automatic transmission, this Trans Am is ready for your next cruise in comfort.

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/73-trans-am-3-630x354.jpg

Looking inside of this Trans Am reveals what can only be described as a perfect interior. This interior shows no evidence of use. The carpet is plush and rich in its shade of black, and the seats are wear and wrinkle free. The door panels look to have never have seen an elbow before, and the steering wheel looks like it is a showroom new piece. Though we are sure in person someone may be able to find something to nitpick. The lovely Brewster green is such an unusual color on this Trans Am, as it almost appears black until the sunlight catches the green just right. The paint looks very close to flawless, though there are some condition issues. The front of this Pontiac is lightly peppered with rock chipping, as are the rockers. There also looks to be a small rust area forming in the bottom of the passenger fender. The air damn has a hole in it, and looks to have some discoloration. The spats ahead of the rear wheel arches also look to be minimally discolored. The lower part of the rear quarters are starting to develop some rust, though it appears to be minimal at this point. The upper part of the driver side door into the driver quarter panel appears to have some sort of a finish issue. It almost looks to be the early onset of clear coat failure on this Pontiac. Still, this Trans Am is a beautiful survivor, with some flaws proving its age.

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/73-trans-am-2-630x355.jpg

With some mild condition issues, this Trans Am is still an amazing beauty, in original condition. We would opt to maintain this one in its current condition as the mileage is low and the condition is nice. Would you pick up this Pontiac Trans Am?

Tags: American / Pontiac / Survivor / Trans Am

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/less-than-50000-miles-1973-trans-am/#Q2uVRX6A3d1GlsIO.99
 
[h=1]Shed Cave In: 1972 Ford Torino Sport[/h]
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/1972-Ford-Torino-Sport-630x354.jpg

This Torino Sport has been parked in a shed in Terre Haute, California for many years. Sadly, the shed caved in on it and left a few scars. It also has some rust issues, but some of it has already been repaired. It still needs plenty of work, but it would sure be a sweet machine once it’s all finished. It’s packing a 351 V8 and an automatic, but that massive front end could house a 429! You can find this Ford here on eBay in Indianapolis, Indiana with a BIN of $7,500.


Tags: American / Ford / Projects

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/shed-cave-in-1972-ford-torino-sport/#CRfrJM6WW51lCq1V.99
 
[h=1]Digital Dash & Window Louvers: ’83 280ZX[/h] image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/00y0y_drPBZVQu674_1200x900-630x473.jpg
Not too many details are offered on this sweet 1983 Datsun 280ZX, but I don’t need much more than the photos to convince myself that I want it. Digital dash cluster, a low-mileage straight six, manual transmission and the must-have rear window louvers make this Z-Car one to own for yours truly. Check out this claimed original-paint specimen here on craigslist for $8,873.

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/00c0c_hApX3nYg754_1200x900-630x473.jpg
I’ve never given these malaise-era Z’s much attention, but I guess the old saying of “absence makes the heart grow fonder” is at play here since I can’t recall the last time I saw one of these vehicles in such great shape. The period-correct details push this one into the “Buy” column for me, thanks to the aforementioned louvers, gold-tipped blade-style wheels and jet-black original paint.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/00N0N_bAEt03Xf7XQ_1200x900-630x473.jpg
The interior on Z-Cars of this era is usually a huge let down, thanks to years of being available as a cheap sports car for new drivers. Thankfully, this one has clearly been loved, with a clean beige cockpit, uncracked seating and dash surfaces, the original headunit and equalizer combo, and lots more to smile about. The digital dash cluster is a must-have, in my opinion, along with three pedals and a turbocharger.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/01515_ksoeiLKLFaJ_1200x900-630x473.jpg
The 80s love-fest continues with the delightful tail light panel that features the full garnish treatment, with the classic “Turbo” script across the center and 280 ZX in huge letters. This Datsun hails from an era where you wanted everyone to know what you were driving, malaise-era horsepower numbers be damned. You looked good and everyone behind you in traffic as going to know about it. Now, who wants to own this preserved Z?


Tags: Datsun / Japanese / Nissan / Survivors

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/digital-dash-window-louvers-83-280zx/#Djf6aUpzFseWm87U.99
 
Sticking with today's Mopar theme.


1971%20CUDA%20%27ELVIS%20078.JPG
 
[h=1]Almost A Barn Find? 1968 Mustang Fastback[/h]
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/1968-Ford-Mustang-Fastback-630x354.jpg

The seller of this Fastback call it a “Barn Find (almost)”, but I’m not exactly sure what that means. It was in the same owner’s care from 1978 until 2014 and had been parked for 19+ years when the seller came across it. It wasn’t running, but complete and quite original. That sounds a lot like a barn find to me, but I guess since all the hard work of making it a driver has already been done, they don’t feel it’s a barn find now. I actually have to commend this seller for being thorough and honest about this 6 cylinder Mustang, they present every flaw and detail every item that’s been replaced. If you’d enjoy making this “almost” a barn find yours, it can be found here on eBay in Beaverton, Oregon with an almost realistic starting price of $13,500.



image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/1968-Mustang-Fastback-630x354.jpg

Even being a 6 cylinder car, it would typically be worth the starting bid and more, but this car suffered from some type of front end damage prior to the seller getting it. The front fenders and hood were replaced and given a poor quality paint job that hasn’t held up so well. That hurts the value of what is otherwise an original survivor. It might not be as bad as the seller makes it out to be, but the lack of good front end photo leaves me wondering if it’s worse than described.

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/1968-Mustang-630x354.jpg

It’s too bad about the front end, but what’s done is done. All that you can do now is either live with it or repaint it. Matching the original gold could be tricky and it would be sad to see the original paint lost. So what would you do with this Pony? Would you fix any rust and body damage and give it a full repaint or would you just leave it alone and daily drive it as is?

Tags: American / Ford / Mustang / Pony Cars

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/almost-a-barn-find-1968-mustang-fastback/#OqVAMVIbxtR3cbKq.99
 
[h=1]No Reserve 1969 Camaro Project[/h] image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/1969-Camaro-X44-e1480370844496-630x354.jpg
It might not be an SS or even an RS car, but this 350 equipped Camaro might actually be a worthwhile project, well at least for the right price. It’s a base model X44 car and has lots of rust issues. Someone slapped Z/28 badges on it, but hopefully that’s the only “upgrade” it’s received. Given that it’s being offered without a reserve, it could turn out to be a good buy for those who want to take on a major project! You can find this Camaro here on eBay in West Creek, New Jersey with bidding still under $3k.


image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/1969-Camaro-350-V8-630x354.jpg
While it might not be a high performance engine, it’s still a 350! With a new intake and carb you could squeeze quite a bit more power from it. I’d like to know if it was originally optioned with a floor shifter or if it was originally a column shift car and has been upgraded. It would be interesting to know more of the cars past, but I doubt we will ever know the full story.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/1969-Camaro-Trunk-630x420.jpg
The rust issues look to be extensive, but the seller claims the trunk isn’t too bad and the areas around the windows are solid. It’s going to need the floors and rockers replaced. Thankfully repair panels are available for both.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/1969-Camaro-630x354.jpg
1969-Camaro-630x354.jpg
The Camaro was offered in several trim levels, with most people wanting SS and RS cars. You don’t often see base model cars anymore, with many of them being upgraded to SS spec, or at least given the cosmetic treatments to look like one. I’d get rid of the Z/28 badges and return it to it’s original configuration, you see far more Z/28s than you do X44s (granted there are more SS and Z/28s today then were ever built). It’s going to need a huge amount of work, but if you don’t mind getting your hands dirty, this could be a great buy! What do you think? Is it worth taking on?

Tags: American / Camaro / Chevrolet

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/no-reserve-1969-camaro-project/#sf0kgfzrsgKQ5w7a.99
 
[h=1]Are You Dreaming? 1960 Corvette Survivor[/h]
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/c1-9-e1480371146111-630x354.jpg

This one might just be the real thing! Sporting what appears to be nice but not perfect original paint, this Powerglide equipped 1960 Corvette is said to be exactly as it left the factory. It’s for sale here on eBay and is located in Germantown, Tennessee. The buy it now is a tick under $60,000, but you are welcome to make offers lower than that. I’m not sure they’ll do much good, though.


image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/c2-9-e1480371364996-630x354.jpg

It’s unusual to me to see a Corvette with “dog dish” center caps and no performance upgrades. Especially one that is supposedly wearing all it’s original paint, chrome and interior. The car certainly looks striking! I’d like to see some documentation that the car really is that original before bidding. I’ve noticed that some folks’ idea of original is “original type” or “original color”, but not “the actual part it left the factory with.” What do you call “original”?

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/c3-10-630x420.jpg

The convertible top seems in splendid shape for an original one; I know any top like this for a British car would have disintegrated a long time ago!

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/c4-8-630x420.jpg

I really like the light blue interior with the white. While I can’t say I’d prefer the Powerglide, there were certainly enough sold in Corvettes for me to believe the original purchaser chose it. I guess that’s another thing I’d like to see with a supposed survivor like this; what is the ownership history? The ad doesn’t sound like it’s being sold by the original purchaser or even their heirs–so what’s the story behind this preserved fantastic plastic car?

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/c5-8-630x420.jpg

Here’s the original 283 engine, and as the seller tells us, the factory heads, intake, carburetor and air cleaner are all in place. A little bit of cleaning under this hood could work wonders, but it’s so pretty, I’d have a hard time convincing my better half that the car would be better off being cleaned than driven!

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/c6-3-630x420.jpg

I appreciate the seller including under car pictures as well. All looks good under here, too. No, certainly not show quality, but I don’t see anything to worry about, either. Is it worth $60,000? As the seller states, they are only original once!

Tags: American / Chevrolet / Corvette / Survivor

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/are-you-dreaming-1960-corvette-survivor/#lpLgp5UhFEvpHo14.99
 
Back
Top