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Old 11-15-2008, 07:32 PM   #1
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1971 31' Sovereign
1967 22' Safari
1958 22' World Traveler
Pardeeville , Wisconsin
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Possible tow vehicle...!

My buddys and I picked this up recently but only today brought it home...a 1966 Electra 225 (it has the Wildcat 430 in it) Its kinda rough, but has a trailer hitch and air shocks on it! Tires need replaced, carb needs cleaned or replaced...Bought it from the daughter of the original owner ! Is it spring yet??

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Old 11-15-2008, 07:55 PM   #2
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1984 29' Sovereign
Savannah , Missouri
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Given time...
1. Check the frame over real good.
2. Check the brakes on all points.
3. Make sure the trailer hitch is rated for the job.
4. I'd go over the engine/xmission real good~
5. Invest in a decent set of out-rigger mirrors. (I don't see any~!)
6. Invest in top of the line tires.(that are rated for your towing requirement.)
7. Make sure you have heavy duty cooling system for both the engine and xmission.
I am sure there much more to check for..
but..
Hey, it's a nice looking boat..Have fun~!!
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Old 11-15-2008, 08:02 PM   #3
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1971 31' Sovereign
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We're thinking of 'rat rodding' it...
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Old 11-15-2008, 08:13 PM   #4
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1964 26' Overlander
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Possible tow vehicle...!

Greetings Aircooled4!

The Electra 225s were one of the rather widely used tow vehicles of their time. It looks like you have most if not all of the difficult to find trim pieces and they appear to be in excellent condition. If my eyes aren't deceiving me, it looks like it might be the less common colonade sedan (pillars between the windows rather than pillarless). As far as exterior appointiments, the only fairly difficult to find piece that isn't in your photos is the fender skirt and trim piece.

Good luck with your Buick!

Kevin
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Old 11-15-2008, 10:10 PM   #5
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1971 31' Sovereign
1967 22' Safari
1958 22' World Traveler
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We have both skirts...ive never heard it refered to as a 'colonade sedan'....At first glance it appeared to me to be a hard top..but upon further looking, its kinda got a minimal B pillar...Im going to look closer tomorrow to see what motor it does have in it...
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Old 11-16-2008, 12:01 AM   #6
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1973 31' Excella 500
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AH, the Buick Electra 225 - one of the finest examples of overpowered luxury vehicles of the 60's. It certainly has the engine and frame to tow any Airstream. I am, however, familiar with 60s vintage motors and have restored my share. Complete frame check for straight with laser equipment, full suspension rebuild (no fancy stuff) and drivetrain restore including bearings and brakes. Next, proper towing setup is essential. Don't be stupid or take chances with your life or anyone elses. If done right, it will evoke smiles and memories from those who remember like myself. Happy sailing.
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Old 11-16-2008, 12:38 AM   #7
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1967 22' Safari
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Very possibly has DRUM BRAKES on all four wheels!!CAREFUL STOPPING!!!!
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Old 11-16-2008, 04:14 AM   #8
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1971 31' Sovereign
1967 22' Safari
1958 22' World Traveler
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Oh yes...all 4 are drum...with the front being ALUMINUM drums...I found a kit to upgrade them to front disks.that consists of 2 brackets and uses GM van calipers and 71-76 Rivera rotors... This would look good infront of my '67 Safari!
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Old 11-16-2008, 06:51 AM   #9
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You just brought back some memories. The old Duece and a quarter (land shark). Good luck with your car.

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Old 11-16-2008, 09:09 AM   #10
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Nice looking Buick. Should be a fun project.
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Old 11-16-2008, 11:04 AM   #11
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I'd bet that ole girl weights at least 5k lbs.,I had one was a good car. I wouldn't be afraid to pull a 16 thru 22 ft Airsteam with that ole boat. Should do good.
Good Luck with the project,
Roger
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