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New member with a new 1964 Catalina

 
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hz536n



Joined: 29 Aug 2021
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PostPosted: Sun Sep 12, 2021 11:37 pm    Post subject: New member with a new 1964 Catalina Reply with quote

Hello All,

My son and I recently purchased a South Gate built 1964 Pontiac Catalina Ventura. Our first classic car. The adventure begins. Questions arise, problems surface and solutions are not near at hand.

I have decided the VIN and Fisher Body tags with the exception of one item from the body tag. The item reads, "ACC 880". It is a factory accessory, but what is it? My guess is that it may represent the Ventura trim option.

Beyond that we have a hard pull to the left when braking and apparently a rear main seal leak as well that need attention.

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Larry
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Joined: 01 Jun 2006
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PostPosted: Wed Sep 15, 2021 12:58 pm    Post subject: New Catalina Reply with quote

Congratulations on a great old Pontiac. The '64 has always been one of the Pontiac hobbyists favorite.

I do not know right off hand what that accessory code might be for. These are not readily available in the normal manuals and such because they were mostly used internally. The best way to get all the documentation on your particular car is to contact PHS (Pontiac Historical Services) in Michigan. Just do a search for them. They are the only source to al of PMD's old documentation. They should be able to supply you with original invoice and more outlining how your actual car was built and sold. They charge for this service, but it is worth it.

A pull on braking is most likely a brake shoe(s) grabbing. It wouldn't be a bad idea to pull all the drums and check/adjust the shoes.

As for the rear main seal. those can be a pain. There are procedures for this in manuals we have, but it might be worth checking with a local mechanic who is familiar with these older cars if you don't wish tom tackle. Remember too, that this is not abnormal for a small amount to drip.

Good luck!

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hz536n



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PostPosted: Wed Sep 15, 2021 1:21 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

Thanks. My son found a Fisher Body tag decoder on an Impala site that explained the "B80" code. (I misread it as 880) B80 is the option code for bright metal roof-drip scalp mouldings on sport coupes.

We have not had luck finding a local shop willing to work on old drum style brakes. I guess that will accelerate our change to front disc brakes and a dual master cylinder. Again, we have not found anyone local willing to do this conversion. This work is beyond our skill set and tools on hand.

The rear main seal leak will necessarily take a back seat to the expense of getting the brakes converted (which also necessitates larger diameter wheels). Any input from others who have already gone through this update process would be greatly appreciated.

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Larry
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PostPosted: Thu Sep 16, 2021 2:10 pm    Post subject: New Catalina Reply with quote

There should be a large number of auto shops in your "Motor City" area. I did a quick search and see a few. However, what I would suggest is visiting some local car shows and asking people there who they know and would recommend.

The standard drum brakes should be fine for your use. They worked well back when we drove them then. Of course switching to a dual master cylinder is always a good idea.

The conversion to discs for the big cars has lagged behind the intermediate cars, but a place called Scarebirds has for the full-size 1959-1965 cars (https://scarebird.com/index.php?route=product/category&path=63).

They have a very good reputation in the hobbyplace. Their setup doesn't require going to larger wheels either. I always recommend calling and speaking to the people before you buy. Don't be afraid to tell them you're a novice either.

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PostPosted: Thu Sep 16, 2021 3:51 pm    Post subject: 1964 Catalina Reply with quote

https://flic.kr/p/2mjLStT
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Larry
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PostPosted: Fri Sep 17, 2021 12:59 pm    Post subject: 1964 Catalina Reply with quote

WOW! What a beautiful car! Really a great looking color too.
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