'71 Catalina Cruiser Project start

[carmen1]

Well here are some photos of my 1971 Catalina 4dr with a 400 under the hood. I got the fluids drained out here and am getting ready to pull the radiator and get the accessories off the front of the block. The interior is in very good condition, good dash, headliner, door panels, and floors! The seats on the other hand are a different story, found a local guy who is going to re-do them and will be pulling them real soon. I will keep pictures posted of my progress. Hopefully I will have her done in time to go cruisin for some burgers with the family!?

[Larry]

It's good to see someone enjoying their car as a family project. That is how many of us enjoyed the best years of our hobby. Sure it's nice to have a top point winning car, but then again it sure is a sad day when one of the kids gets ice cream on the seat!

Those early '70s Catalinas are going to take off as collectable Pontiacs for a number of reasons: good engine power with lots of flexibility to build, great road cars for familys and traveling, super strong and durable, and very good looking lines. All the body styles were good looking in 1971, and your hardtop is an extremely attractive Pontiac.

Keep us posted on your progress, and the fun you have with it.

[duncan2plus2]

Your '71 looks great! I bought a '72 Catalina new w/ the 400 engine & drove it 14 years before selling to my brother who drove it several more. It was a good looking car that was a great road car. I hope you enjoy your new Poncho as much as i did. I look forward to watching your progress pictures.

[carmen1]

Thanks for the encouragement guys! Well, I put some more work in today. Pulled the radiator, the alternator, and attempted to tackle the A/C. What is up with the A/C in this car, it weighs more than me and it had six bolts holding it in, and that's not including the hoses??!!?? Well Again being new at this is definately an adventure, and the upside was I didn't think about work once LOL! I will keep you guys posted, found an engine shop I am comfortable with so hopefully I will be pulling the block very soon!

[super]

It is hard to beat the full-size Pontiacs. Good power and performance, unbelievable ride quality with the big wheelbase and great styling.

I am wanting to find a full-size Pontiac for a back up car. I'll use it to occassionally carpool to work, cruise on the weekends, take a family trip, etc.

Catalinas, Grandvilles, Bonnevilles! All great cars.

I really like your '71. You don't see many of these cars around. Most of them were destroyed in our area because of salvage yards crushing them or demolition derby guys.

Great Pontiac you own!