I have been in remission since about 1988 but recently saw the infamous Leno car on a show recently and my affliction returned in full force with the result that I purchased my first Toronado in more than 22 years.
My first Toronado was a 1968 W-34 with the bucket seats and center console. (weeps gently)
It was a New England rustbucket in 1982 after less than 14 years. So sad. But it is what infected me and before I knew it I had another '68, a '69, a '70 and eventually inherited a friend's '67 and another friends '73 and I even strayed into Delta 88 territory when I purchased a '70 Delta 88 with a fine motor in it and then a '67 a bit later. After buying my brand new Grand Prix in 1988 I retired the last of my cars and pulled the 455 I had rebuilt along the way and put it into storage in a friend's barn where it is to this day.I now am the proud owner of a 1969 Toronado with a good body but in need of a major mechanical and suspension overhaul. At present it is in my garage and I just finished dismantling the front suspension only to find that the lower passenger side control arm is ripped where the ball joint mounts. I found a replacement but now hope to find a '74 to '76 car so I can update the entire front end with the newer knuckle so I can save $210 in ball joints. If anyone knows of such a car in the Seattle-Tacoma area for a good price appropriate for a parts car with limited applicability ( less than $600) I would love to hear about it.
My goal is to upgrade the car to Air Conditioning, Power Windows and Locks. I plan to obtain some new Cadillac seats from a CTS or STS and a center console (my attempt to replicate my original car with modern seating). I hope to fully rebuild the engine and transmission in the spring with the intent of having a very drivable GT tourer. This is likely the first of several Toronados I will eventually own with a '66 and a '68 on the list for the future.
I look forward to being a member of the club and hope to meet some of you soon!
