1955 Buick Special sedan - diesel conversion

[wndsofchng]

I have started the rear end work. I have fabbed up trailing arms and brackets. I am just using the original springs, S-10 rear, and metal from the scrap bin at work (recycling?).

[MetroMPG]

Nice to see this coming along. I've added it to the list of projects that show up on the home page.

[wndsofchng]

Thanks Metro MPG..... Can't wait to get her going. Already sourcing out veg oil/biodiesel resources. She was about 12-15mpg on gas. Should get 20-25 on diesel/bio. IF (big if) I can keep a steady flow of used veg oil and dont have to buy my biodiesel, I should be on the road at about 60-70 cents per gallon!

*side note, traded my gas mustang in for an E85 chrysler and found 4 E85 stations in my area!!!

[dmodified1]

Nice project its definitely going to be a cool, efficient, and original ride once it is done

[wndsofchng]

also the f100 in the background of the last Buick pic is getting a cummins diesel conversion.... will also be biodiesel.... "Hi, I'm Matt and I'm an addict" HA HA HA

[cRiPpLe_rOoStEr]

Originally Posted by wndsofchng

also the f100 in the background of the last Buick pic is getting a cummins diesel conversion.... will also be biodiesel.... "Hi, I'm Matt and I'm an addict" HA HA HA

Awesome. Is it getting a 4cyl or 6cyl Cummins?

[phh]

Interesting project! Forgive me, my impression of cars from that era is that they are very heavy and not best for efficiency. No?

Anyways, I love old cars and am very interested to see how this is turns out. Good luck!

[bikeprof]

What a silly Subaru commercial...

[Flakbadger]

Originally Posted by phh

Forgive me, my impression of cars from that era is that they are very heavy and not best for efficiency. No?

True, but I suspect the efficiency bracket that this vehicle will fit into will be a different one from, say, a Prius. For what it is, it will be extremely efficient.

Also, removing the default equipment (engine, axle, etc. etc.) and replacing with modern components might save some weight, due to alloys and the fat-trimming that modern pieces have undergone.

That said, I don't think a modern diesel will necessarily be lighter than the cast-iron gasser it's replacing.

EDIT: It's also important to remember that a modern diesel engine will return much more torque-per-gallon of fuel than the old tech.

[greenpigs]

Nice to see someone taking old iron and re purposing it.