Quote:
Originally Posted by Mister Pontiac
I have a new thread idea here...
Machine: 1974 Bonneville 4dr Sedan, 455. Stock. Owned since 2011, and long ago amortized her debt to zero. Driven 45,000 miles in the ensuing 12 years, and currently sitting at approximately 135,000 miles. At the end of this journey, she should have close to 200,000, at which point I will retire her from this weekly use.
Mission: Maximum of 17 years remaining until I fully retire, and planning to use Bonne for weekly transport to/from the airport until that day. Approximately 3000-5000 miles/year usage for another 50,000 or so to go by retirement day. Occasionally a road trip thrown in along the way, but primary duty is transport to/from work.
Method: Update this thread as needed, based on the repairs and upgrades that arise out of this regular usage. The goal is to keep Bonne as close to original in look/operation/function while maintaining a high degree of regular reliability. She will be operated from rush hour traffic, to light cruising. Hot Phoenix summer days, to cooler winter days. No snow anticipated, but rain or shine otherwise.
Any interest? Please vote in the attached poll so I know whether or not to continue with this idea. Thanks in advance!
I've attached a couple of pictures of Bonne both when purchased (2011), and how she looks today (2023).
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I regularly drive my 72 LeMans 455 long distance. Last summer it was getting 9mpg. Not ideal. This summer after using an air fuel gauge to get the carb tuned and installing an OD transmission on top of a 2.7_ rear axle it's getting 17.5mph highway.
If you can swing it a 700r4 will make a big difference. At 2000rpm I'm at 78mph.
If you're mechanical at all the rebuild process can be done at home.