1955 Questions`

[Michael H.]

A few questions regarding 1955's (I resort to your collective knowledge as I believe Roy is still on vacation.) (1) Is there supposed to be any sheen at all on the upper dash (i.e., effectively flat versus eggshell). (2) Is there anyone who makes a correct '53 to '55 gas tank. Based on the pictures in the major supply house catalogues, the early C1 tanks appear to have a different upper meter sending unit hole placement than the '56 and later tanks. (3) Is the drive shaft really supposed to be semi-gloss as stated in the Judging Guide (which seems somewhat inconsistent with the relative flatness of the rest of the under-chassis) or does that JG reference really mean more of an eggshell black on the driveshaft (e.g., not really semi-gloss, but perhaps with somewhat more sheen than Krylon #1613 or SEM Trim Black). Thanks in advance for any input.

Mike

[Russ U.]

Re: 1955 Questions`

When I looked around a couple years ago, nobody was making a reproduction gas tank for 53 to 55s. I restored mine. Took it to a guy who specializes in restoring old gas tanks (not a radiator shop guy). Works great.

I found my gas tank guy by calling a local mechanic who works on and restores vintage cars (some of which are uncommon).

53 to 55 Gas tanks pop up on ebay every now and then. Getting a good restorable tank on ebay might be a good option. I think they ususally go for $200 or so, but I could be off on that.

Hope this helps,

Russ

[Brett H.]

Re: 1955 Questions`

Personally, I have always used a new 56-57 tank with baffles. The sender mounts right to it and the wiring also has plenty of length for the sender. It has the advantage of the baffles also. I just wash it with lacquer thinner and then powder coat it smei-gloss clear for posterity. Little of the tank shows and it will look good forever. Everything was ordered from C. Central.
Just my own personal preference.

[Mike M.]

Re: 1955 Questions`

56 and early 57 tanks lacked baffels. agree with use of baffles in 56 and early tanks in spite of non-originality. without baffles,pressure builds as temp increases. mike

[Dave Suesz]

OK,

The top of the dash is low-gloss. Mine has been repainted, too shiny, but the inside of the top boot and well are original, and they are low glass as the dash was.

If you cannot save your tank, I would get a used original from MaryJo, Grossmeullers, or Paragon. Grossmeullers also offers a new stainless tank, but I have never seen one.

[Dave Suesz]

OK,

The top of the dash is low-gloss. Mine has been repainted, too shiny, but the inside of the top boot and well are original, and they are low glass as the dash was.

If you cannot save your tank, I would get a used original from MaryJo, Grossmeullers, or Paragon. Grossmeullers also offers a new stainless tank, but I have never seen one.