Greetings and salutations, my fellow ‘49ers! Spring has sprung and you know what that means: time to fire up our ’49 Cadillacs and get them ready for another season of cruise nights, shows and general enjoyment.
As part of the spring start-up ritual, I always recommend the following be done: 1. Remove all the spark plugs and squirt a couple of tablespoons of oil into each cylinder and crank the engine over by hand. During storage, the cylinders may become “dry” as gravity causes the oil film to seep downwards; 2. Change the oil and filter. Condensation can build up in the oil pan over the winter; 3. Check all fluid levels; 4. Check all tire pressures and examine the tires for signs of dry rot or other defects/damage; 5. Check all belts and hoses. Turn the fan belt inside out and closely examine it for cracks and splits which may not normally be visible; 6. Check the condition of the battery with a hydrometer. Fill low cells with distilled water. Remove both battery cables and clean them and both battery posts. Apply a small amount of grease to the top of each post and re-tighten cables firmly; 7. Performa thorough safety insection. Check proper operation of headlights (high and low beam), tail-lights, brake lights, directionals, wipers, horn, emergency brake, front end and steering components; 8. Examine all brake lines and hoses and look for telltale signs of brake fluid on the inside of the tires, which could indicate a leaking wheel cylinder; 9. When was the last time you cleaned, re-packed and adjusted the front wheel bearings; 10. Don’t forget to check the fluid level in the differential! This list is not all-inclusive, but I believe I’ve covered the salient points. Adherence to this preventative maintenance routine could save you a lot of grief on the road and, more importantly, possibly prevent an accident!
The ‘49ers chapter continues to grow, and we have well over 200 members in 38 US states and 10 other countries. We extend a hearty welcome to new members. Unfortunately, I won’t be able to attend the Grand National in St. Augustine, Florida, but Jay Friedman, newsletter editor Art Gardner and many other members will be there. Meet chairman Len Berman has informed the Times that a room has been reserved for our annual Forty Niners chapter meeting at the host hotel, the Renaissance Resort, at 4:15 pm on Saturday, June 16th, immediately following the car judging. Be sure to check the registration desk and hospitality room for the location of the meeting.
Remember, if you’re in the market to purchase Steele Rubber Products, please call our friend and chapter benefactor, Ed Cholakian at AllCads of the ‘40s, telephone: 702-454-1147 or online at allcads.com to place your order. Mention that you are a member of the ‘49ers and Ed will extend a 20% discount. Allcads also stocks a massive supply of new and used ’49 parts.
Wishing all of you the best for 2012. Get your ’49 out and have fun.
Keep ‘Em Rolling!