1940 Pontiac Goes International

[Larry]

I have been getting my 1940 Pontiac model 2519 ready for its spring trip to Missouri where two of our Pontiac loving friends will begin its transformation. They have already picked up a Trans Am 400 and 350 transmission along with a new rear end.

Sadly for you purists, my old Pontiac, which I've had since 1978, will become a resto rod of sorts. It will get a modern drivetrain with all the creature comforts. Being 63 and living in Florida, it is essential to enjoying your hobby car year 'round. But, other than modern tires and nice wheels (probably chrome reversed with baby moons), it will remain stock in appearance. And it will not be a snorter either, just a mild running car.

In a twist of fate, while I thought the original 6-cylinder power train might never see use again, I was contacted by someone in the United Arab Emirate (Yes, the UAE!) looking for everything for a 1940 Pontiac Woody Wagon. So, I have dragged the car out and begin prepping the engine for starting up to make sure all is fine before pulling and shipping on a long journey.

My question here is, what happened since I was in my late 20s and completely dismantled the car for restoration? Now that I have finally gone back under it, when did it get so much lower? And when did everything get so out of focus? The bolts are all tighter, and everything is heavier too. Has anyone else noticed this happening to their old cars over the years?