An earlier discussion about my '50 convertible has got me thinking about placing this old car on a newer chassis, making simpler the task of upgrading to better suspension, disc brakes, big motor, newer trans, and positraction. I'm thinking that this is a good way to go.

My '50 Buick Super has a 121 1/2" wheelbase. I think the Rivieras from '71 - 76 are compatible (122"?), but are there any others?

many thanks for the help--

Steve Little

I thought I'd bring this to the top again, and see if some of you might be able to give me a hint or two. The more I think about it, the more I am convinced that a later-model Riviera is the way to go with this old convertible.

My question is this: do I use go ahead and replace the 1950 floorpans first or use the floors from the '73? I've located a running '73 Riv with a 455 and TH400 for 500 clams. I'm thinking I should snag it, even if I use the '50 frame, because the engine, trans and rear end are well worth the price. I believe I need to replace the '50 floorpans, because in lifting it off the old frame, I'd need the support. Wouldn't it be easier the set this down on the bare frame of the '73?

I'm hoping you more experienced guys can help. Any thoughts?? I'd sure like to talk to somebody who has done this kind of thing...

many thanks--
Steve

HAY HOSS I KNOW THIS IS AN OLD THREAD BUT I'VE DONE IT THERE IS ALOT INVOLVED AND ALOT OF MEASURING AND FABING. I PUT A (EXTENDED) 82 REGAL UNDER MINE.
HOPEFULLY THE PROS OUT THE CONS
GOOD LUCK
:thumbsup:

There is more to it than just the wheelbase, so I'll try to give you a picture. First, the floors. You need to determine the difference in shape, width and length, not to mention firewall location between one car and the other. There are also body mounts to consider. If the floor is really bad in the 50, the best thing to do is probably cut it out; BUT, before you do that you will need to cross-brace the body since, with the floors gone, you'll lose a lot of stiffness and will have a hell of a time getting it to line up later. New body mounts will have to be fabbed to match those on the new chassis; and make 'em beefy. Just a couple of holes in the right place ain't enough. Where are the controls in the new car as they relate to those in the old car? How does the radiator, gas tank, brake lines etc. relate between cars? Will the wheels on the new car sit with enough clearance in the old body to allow no scrubbing? How about spring hangers and shock mounts? Electrical wiring will be a project all by itself, although from a mechanical standpoint, it's probably one of the easier jobs. Will the new engine fit in the old bay without cutting any sheetmetal? Are there any humps in the new chassis that will interfere with the seating in the old body? I'll quit now, I think I've given you an idea of what's involved. Like anything else, if you have the tools, the knowledge, the skill, the money and the time, there ain't a whole lot that CAN'T be done. Good luck!!