Take a look at these awesome finds, The 1959 & 1960 Pontiac Bonneville Convertible Barn Finds!
In the world of classic cars, few discoveries stir the hearts of enthusiasts like a barn find. Imagine the thrill of unearthing not one, but two legendary Pontiac Bonneville convertibles from 1959 and 1960, hidden away in a Nebraska barn for over three decades. This is the story of Jeff, from Chief Classic Auto Sales, who embarked on an extraordinary journey to revive these long-forgotten gems.
The Discovery
Jeff’s adventure began with a tip about a collection of vintage cars stored in central Nebraska. Upon investigation, he discovered seven cars, among them the star attractions: a 1959 and a 1960 Pontiac Bonneville convertible. These cars had been parked since 1991, gathering dust and awaiting a new lease on life.
The Initial Assessment
Excitement was palpable as Jeff and his neighbor carefully unloaded the cars from the trailer. Remarkably, most of the tires held air, and the wheels moved freely, indicating the cars’ potential despite their long hibernation. Initial inspections revealed surprisingly clean oil, minimal rust on the spark plugs, and intact bodies under layers of dust.
The Restoration Begins
Jeff’s first task was to get the engines running. He meticulously cleaned and replaced parts, addressing issues like burnt wires, rusty valve mating surfaces, and outdated ignition systems. His dedication paid off when the 1959 Bonneville roared to life, albeit with some fine-tuning needed for the carburetor and idle adjustments. The 1960 model, while promising, required specific parts that had to be ordered, putting its revival on temporary hold.
Success and Challenges
Bringing these classics back to life was not without its hurdles. Jeff faced numerous challenges, from flat tires and idle circuit issues to a fluid-less power top motor. Despite these setbacks, his enthusiasm never waned. The 1959 Bonneville, once coaxed into running, showed signs of its former glory. It maintained oil pressure, did not overheat, and demonstrated a responsive throttle. Jeff’s meticulous work on the brakes, engine treatment, and fuel system underscored his commitment to preserving the authenticity of these vehicles.
Looking Ahead
The journey is far from over. Jeff plans to continue restoring the 1960 Bonneville once the necessary parts arrive. He also aims to rebuild the transmission and fine-tune the brakes of the 1959 model. His ultimate goal is to restore both cars to their original splendor, showcasing the timeless beauty and engineering marvel of the Pontiac Bonneville convertibles.
A Labor of Love
For Jeff, this project is more than a restoration; it’s a labor of love. The satisfaction of seeing these cars transform from dusty relics to gleaming classics is unparalleled. Each step of the journey, from discovering unique parts to overcoming mechanical challenges, adds to the rich tapestry of these cars’ histories.
In the end, Jeff’s dedication and passion exemplify the spirit of classic car restoration. The 1959 and 1960 Pontiac Bonneville convertibles are not just vehicles; they are pieces of automotive history, brought back to life by a true enthusiast. As Jeff continues his work, these cars will undoubtedly become cherished icons, admired by classic car lovers for generations to come.
Whether you’re a seasoned car enthusiast or a casual admirer of classic automobiles, Jeff’s journey with the Pontiac Bonneville convertibles is a testament to the enduring allure of vintage cars and the joy of bringing them back to life.
