Overview
A nice appearing, low mileage 1953 Cadillac sedan was purchased by the current owner to relive fond childhood memories. After some time it was decided to restore the car. Thus began an unfortunate series of events that led to Anderson Automotive Enterprises (AAE) being retained to fulfill the owner’s dream.
The first restoration shop disassembled the car and performed extensive work to replace rusted metal hidden behind the car’s trim before going out of business. A second shop was contracted to finish the metal work, apply the finish paint, and re-assemble the car. Although the second shop provided a good paint job, assembly was very poor – panels were not properly fitted, doors were incorrectly assembled and not aligned, bumpers, grille and trim were not properly aligned or installed, the windshield and rear window were not installed, the dash was repainted but not properly assembled. The poor assembly resulted in an unusable car and led to the owner severing business with the second shop. Before the car was delivered to AAE, new seat upholstery, headliner, carpet were installed.
The assignment for AAE was to properly assemble the car to replicate a 1953 Cadillac 4-door sedan as it left the factory, except that underbody would not be restored to replicate factory appearance. Instead the underbody would be cleaned and painted semi-gloss black. This required disassembly and re-assembly of all components while simultaneously protecting the new paint and upholstery. The disassembly revealed many defects in the prior work. AAE discovered that problems also existed with the suspension, fuel system, and a previously installed exhaust system.
The owner also commissioned AAE to restore the engine compartment, front suspension to authentic conditions and install a new front wiring harness.
[Click on photos to enlarge] |
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1953 Cadillac doors and body panels poorly aligned
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Typical of component and trim assembly as received |
Rear end of the 1953 Cadillac was partially assembled |
Details on this project follow:
Chassis Restoration | Engine & Driveline | Interior | Body | Front End |
