I won a 1953 Pontiac Chieftain Straight 8 from Copart!! Run and Drive?? You Won't Believe This!

[@lvmychvredline7514]

I'm starting to like seeing these older cars on the channel. Auction finds not field finds.

[@Chrisb8s]

Just put some patina sauce on it. Please don’t let Maaco paint it.

[@jason7078]

@@Chrisb8s He already decided he's getting it painted. I think it deserves a fresh paintjob

[@gregt722]

I like patina to an extent. This Pontiac has too much. Plus I’m sure Randy is tire of the rust look with the Hellair! Personally I’d have gone with a two tone pale green and buttercream, but I think Randy is going to go for a soft pale butter yellow.

[@AutoAuctionRebuilds]

Thanks man

[@steve-ph9yg]

@@clevelandmaker386 I don’t know where you are looking but original lighted Chief Pontiac hood ornaments are on eBay for $800-$900.

[@NickG123]

Contact the old owner about the chrome! It would look so good with all the chrome and fresh paint!

[@hobiem3378]

Love the old Pontiac’s. they were so unique from the others especially with the Indian Head that lights up but definitely find all the chrome to put back on it

[@jeffripplinger]

Put all the chrome back on it. It's part of what makes the car unique.

[@erikkarlonas180]

@Seinfeld Mix Tape really?

[@brian5o]

@Seinfeld Mix Tape As much as you don't like the car, I am surprised that you would put the effort into watching the video, let alone typing a comment on it. There is plenty on KZbin to watch. If you don't like it, move along. You don't have to announce your departure. You're not that important.

[@donaldhenak4585]

@@brian5o Gee! Now we have a self-appoinnted Something or another who likes to pass judgement on another by speaking at their back, long after their voluntary departure from the conversation and the site.

[@stephenhorbatiuk2811]

Randy: on the rear quarter panels. Covering the rear wheels are called, Fender Skirts. NOT arch covers. Cheers

[@jerrywatson7176]

Yes they are fender skirts and if you would check them the will fit other G.M. cars of that era possibly even the 55.

[@paulorr6686]

The wipers are vacuum operated - when you speed up the wipers will stop moving and when you are coasting the vacuum will run the wipers - might need to check for vacuum leak to the wipers

[@adotintheshark4848]

also, the vacuum is regulated by a second diaphragm on the fuel pump, believe it or not. That's so there isn't as much difference in wiper speeds when you step on the gas.

[@nigefoxx]

Vacuum wipers are pretty terrible at the best of times, but I had the vacuum motor rebuilt for mine by Ficken Wiper Service (no affiliation, just happy to pass on the name because he did a great job) and doing a rebuild on the fuel pump/vacuum pump made a significant difference to how well they work.

[@Chevy-cz9ge]

I just got an electric wiper motor for my 52 chevy business coupe, 2 speed for $230.00 but it was worth it. Stay safe people 🙂

[@billrodebush5]

As I recall, the transmission and differential back then, took 90 weight gear oil. Also, when shifting into 1st, when driving, you need to come to a stop, to keep from grinding gears. Back then they didn't synchronize 1st gear.

[@michaelbenardo5695]

If you have a double-action fuel pump, and it works properly, the wipers will work well.

[@armedinbama]

I have been waiting for this one, she's a real honey! Take time to correctly prep and preserve the metal for future generations. Replace the seals and broken glass. Have the interior completed. This car will love you back for a long time!

[@mcbehrski]

80w-90 gear oil for both trans and rear end, fill until it starts to drip out fill hole. pait seafoam green and put on fat whitewalls.

[@gregisdivorced]

He’s got the White Walls from Coker Tire at AAR HQ that’s a great idea.

[@ItsaRomethingeveryday]

Exactly

[@DeepSouthTechie]

Paint it please, this one deserves to shine. My favorite Uncle used to let me drive his old car on the two path farm roads when I was a kid. His car was very similar to that one, it was huge for a kid and at first I was terrified. So many of your classics bring back memories for me. I guess that makes me a classic too, lol. Well Sorta!

[@jerrywatson7176]

Yes paint it and replace the chrome pieces. You have the door panels in the trunk with the chrome pieces and paterns which can be redone. First gear does not have syncromesh and will grind if you try to shift it into first while rolling and that is normal.

[@Captain_DeSync]

If you can, try and put as much chrome from the factory as you can. I’m looking at pictures of it, and with the chrome, it’s stunning.

[@Chrisb8s]

The chrome is available. Another grand and you should have all of it. That nose piece is the most expensive and you have that.

[@noahenos2872]

I agree I think he should use all of the chrome and not just fill it in

[@danjones6279]

I think he overpaid for it compared to the Mktplace listing, he paid 4.8k at Copart then discovered it was actually on Mktplace for 4k! That's how I understood it anyway. That's why he was slightly pissed off 😂 as you would be!

[@donaldhenak4585]

@@danjones6279 For sure

[@jenniferstephany9231]

Just a thought if the tires you bought for the Dodge will fit you should put them on the Pontiac . That’s one cool car it deserves a paint job.

[@mr_angry1482]

I think that pontiac is a score! I would rock that daily. Sounds like it runs great 👍

[@Blah7785]

Yes paint it Randy! She's definitely a time capsule...AAR is the best Automotive channel on KZbin 💯

[@tonynaranjo2296]

That is a beautiful car I will keep it for myself seriously! It is a one-of-a-kind! I would try to find the missing chrome for it! If it's already running and driving, All the needs is some interior work and the paint job!

[@stephenandloriyoung5716]

Great find, great deal. I paid less for my 53 Catalina Deluxe Chieftain, though, just 46 years ago this month. It has served me long and well, and is nice on long cruises. I think the 53 is very handsome as a four door. I hope you have great fun with it. Charles Coker, from Missouri, is an expert on the 53 Pontiacs, and can tell you anything you need to know about them.

[@hughdudley1792]

My first car was a 53 just yours.. flathead straight 8 mine had a 4 speed Hydraulic transmission. I bought it for 6 bucks in 1967.

[@stevejanka361]

My buddy bought a very similar 53 Chevrolet 4 dr. Belair. Pretty much the same money and condition. Sold it at car show for 11,000 dollars. You did good.

[@ericward8010]

The first car I remember in our family was a '54 Chevrolet 4 dr 210 model with a 'Blue Flame' 6, and power glide trans, in Sherwood Green and Ivory. I'm 70.

[@brian5o]

My dad had a green 67 Chevrolet C-10 stepside in the early to mid 80s with a powerglide. I loved how it shifted. It seemed like you’d be driving forever and then out-of-the-blue, it’d shift into 2nd. I think my dad’s truck had a 305 or 350 in it. Btw, I found that very interesting that your 54 Chevy 210 had the Blue Flame 6. I didn’t know that engine was put into anything else besides the Corvette. I learned something new today. How was it to drive? Those are beautiful engines.

[@briantayler1230]

G'day, 3 speed with no synchromesh on first. That brings back memories. I love the Pontiac and looking forward to seeing more.

[@Chrisb8s]

Mr too I had a 63 dodge step side with that

[@gregpheysey6933]

These are videos that we love randy .the car is like you straight and honest with the viewers not a lot of truthtellers on you tube that's why your channel keeps growing enjoy the red eye you deserve it

[@Ricamundo]

I would get it painted. Patina, on an old pickup makes sense. After all they were work trucks, but that car when new, was bought by someone who wanted to impress the neighbors. So I think fresh paint would look amazing. Fwiw, I think the original color would be the way to go.

[@Natures_Intentions]

It's amazing how well it runs and drives. I say a fresh paint job is in order. Great video. I like the classic cars it's part of what makes your channel great to watch.

[@douglasbrown8175]

The guy has the chrome call him Randy before he throws it away.

[@Thanos.m]

That's a great find Randy! If you manage to get the chrome and fresh paintjob I think this car will look amazing

[@jean-marcandjoshua-petsjournal]

She is a survivor, great pickup Randy.

[@jastbrown]

I believe that headlight switch has a rheostat built in. To get brighter dash lights you may be able to get them by just turning the headlight knob in a clockwise direction.

[@billrodebush5]

Counterclockwise for brighter dash lights, as I recall.

[@neilforrest2677]

Born in 52, I year newer than me! A real keeper. 3 on the tree brings back happy memories. Looking forward to seeing what you do with it. First doesn't have synchronizers. Must be at a stop. Whippers are from vacuum. May have leaks.

[@Chevy-cz9ge]

I was born in 52 also and have a 52 chevy business coupe, when people ask me why I got a 52 I tell them because we were both born in 52. LOL. Stay safe people 🙂

[@robertsutton3068]

I had a 1951 Chieftain with the Straight 8, bought it in 1957 for $35. The rear fender openings are call Fender Skirts. Enjoyed seeing you so happy with this Pontiac. Keep up the videos we enjoy them very much. GOD Bless

[@jdmjib123]

Stunning car the way she sits Randy. Shame the chromes missing.

[@damolin77]

Awesome Randy you got a steal of a deal. Only thing I would do is contact GM to see if they can help you with the chrome parts or a viewer can after that If no luck plug the holes an paint it.

[@jacksonroy7480]

You should message the guy from Facebook marketplace, show up in that car and collect the Chrome trim. Love this car!

[@carlhorkavy2216]

You've GOT to find and re-install the side chrome. You will be shocked at the value and beauty it will add. Leave the holes on the re-paint.

[@dvddmc]

This is a Car you need To Keep ! take the Door cards that you have to an fabric shop they should be able to help you out maybe getting new cards. Paint It!!

[@christophermckinnon4920]

I geeked out about your engine compartment light , that still works?! The headlight switch might have a dimmer, give it a little twist Your Pontiac has A lot of options, visor, fender skirt, radio, reverse lights, deluxe heater?. All that's missing are dealer fog lights. Love that Pontiac. Can't for the next video

[@christophermckinnon4920]

In the video, it looked really dim. Was wondering if it brightened up after turning the switch. I saw a you tube awhile back. A feller put in an electric wiper motor. An exact replica of the vaccum, just bolted right in. If I find the company, I'll send the info your way

[@paulmorgan1897]

Randy, My wife is sitting here screaming “Don’t Screw It Up!” If you can’t find the door and fender chrome cover the holes But don’t mess up the hood and trunk chrome. Be aware, My son restores cars and he has always said the most expensive thing of his restorations on old big chrome cars is the chrome parts.

[@Chrisb8s]

Me too. Don’t pull my ride this car! No to maaco and filling in holes and skipping the chrome. Let someone else do this one

[@dworsak79]

That hood ornament is REALLY COOL! Cars like that are truly works of art.

[@davidspoonemore2721]

The light on the trunk lid should light up too, when the lights are turned on…

[@richroj]

Randy, that Pontiac Chieftain is beautiful. I can't wait to see the upcoming videos on it!

[@rayshutsa6690]

It is an excellent deal. Nothing is built as good as these cars. I learnt to drive a 3 on the tree in the 70's. Thanks for another awsome video. 😀🇨🇦

[@tommyhall8301]

Glad you won. The Pontiac good job buddy

[@doctorhugocat]

So happy to see the Pontiac Looking forward to seeing more. Would love to see it painted!!

[@DEXEuphoria]

I'm so jealous of your old cars in the USA, everything that's even remotely old and stylish has been driven to its death or its worth millions..

[@theflyingspringbk]

Try getting a straight 8 in South Africa, my dude. Damn near impossible/mind numbingly expensive

[@djsonic6533]

That is such a beautiful car and it still runs and drives the way it is. I'm loving all these old classic you're buying. It's great content!!

[@thaloszapispapos715]

I would love to see the 1955 truck up and running once you get all legal stuff taken care of so that it can tow around the Chieftain to up coming car show.

[@championmoose]

i second that with the 55 farm truck and the chieftain that would be crazy cool

[@stephenandloriyoung5716]

A couple of years or so ago, I used my 53 Catalina to tow-bar a much newer Caprice several miles, including a river crossing on a cable ferry. The ferry deck control guy said, "Shouldn't this be the other way around?" Nah, Pontiacs are Chevys' big brothers, they ain't heavy.

[@jeffgravel9042]

Painting will preserve this car; if you don't, it will continue to rust. Love the whitewall idea. I do prefer the original color, though. Great find. Glad you got it.

[@drumbeastgaming2327]

I've been waiting for this video Love all the 50s cars

[@steveosgood9182]

old car salvation is your destiny. Don't fight it. Embrace it

[@markhowes5669]

Can not wait to see this car look fantastic again, well done Randy

[@paulbartlett9054]

I would paint it back to sea foam green. 50’s color man! But it sounds like you want it darker. I’m sure it will look good either way.

[@8avexp]

My father's '53 Chieftain was two-tone green and had a straight 8 w/Hydramatic. It always started no matter how cold it got.

[@2003cobramustang]

Randy so happy you won this Pontiac! She’s a great old car! I’m so torn though i like the patina but painting it would be cool! Yes definitely do another video! Love this old car!!

[@marciowagner7808]

Congratulations for your discovery! I was only 2 years old in 1953 when my grandpa bought a brand-new 1953 Chieftain Pontiac exactly as this one, except for the color (black) and transmission (Hydramatic), that he kept until 1962. Your car reminded me the sound of the enormous 8-in-line engine.

[@stephencarr2216]

You definitely need to paint it Randy, I would also get in touch with the owner on market place and tell them you bought the car and you want the chrome plus any other parts, Even if you give them $200 for them it’s cheap and it will be complete, Love the car, Why not do a body swap on the hellair.

[@DaveGreg100]

When was the last time anyone actually saw a straight eight engine ? That would be a waste, actually.

[@slicksnewonenow]

Couldn't do a body swap... totally different chassis dimensions.

[@theflyingspringbk]

Yeah! Finally a straight 8 baby! The old girl still runs and drives after 70+ years. Deserves alot of love, and maybe a bit of maaco

[@RonThompson]

Love this car. can't wait to see it painted. but still looks good as is

[@antonmalmberg1830]

Put all of the chrome back and send it to paint! That car will look absolutely gorgeos when it is done

[@tenmillionvolts]

I say paint it. This one is too tidy to leave as is. It could look gorgeous with new paint. If it was rougher like the hellair, I would just clear coat it.

[@smokinjoesgarage6081]

Great purchase. Looked good at the Paul’s Valley Cars & Coffee. Also you did great with the balloons. Looking forward to the video 😁

[@Mitchell.Is.De.Naam.]

So I figure since you found the advert for the car on Facebook I guess you can get the missing trim pieces from the previous owner as well?

[@robertwisbey6892]

Keep the paint as it is and clear coat it Randy it looks awesome! Another great video 👍

[@raybonecrusher4516]

It looks like a good buy in your video. If the frame is solid and the body is surface rust only it would be worth painting. Take as far as you feel you can and pass it on.

[@frankoliver200]

I think that it was an excellent deal!! I love that Pontiac!!

[@dalecain1158]

Can’t believe you didn’t know how to shift a three on the tree. Lol. The wipers are probably vacuum operated too.

[@brian5o]

I can't imagine many people these days know how to operate a 3-on-the-tree. I believe that the last vehicle sold with on was the 1986 GM C/Ks, Ford ended them a year earlier and I think even among people who know how to drive a manual transmission (we're a dying breed) only a small portion of them likely know how to drive a 3-on-the-tree. Granted, the shift pattern is like a 3-speed on the floor, moved up to the dash and 90 degrees to the column but even 3-speeds on the floor have not been produced in a very, very long time by the automakers. I figured Randy might not know when he first looked at this at auction, I told him how to in comments but he likely missed it because he does get so many comments. I am very happy he figured it out and I am sure that Santa could've helped him, that is if he didn't. He's old enough to know for sure. I'm probably one of the youngest people to know how to drive a 3-speed on the column and I am 46 and probably one of the few even in my age group that knows how. My grandfather had several of them , some I drove when I had my learner's permit and my stepdad had a few too. I'd actually love to buy one, I am always on the lookout for a 1965-1979 F100 or F150 with one in original shape. I haven't driven a 3-on-the-tree since my grandfather's blue 1979 F100 back in maybe 1991 or 1992 but I love driving them and desperately want one of my own.

[@mdogg1604]

@@brian5o I was wondering when the last three-on-the tree was made. Thanks for that info. I learned on my '52 Plymouth back in 1969. It's a simple H-pattern which was often diagrammed in owners manuals.

[@tripfall224]

the last "three on the tree" Ive seen was in the early 70's.

[@hullinger]

I love, love, love the vintage stuff. It's super cool and awesome to see it show up at a Copart auction too. Congrats!

[@robertthorpe2401]

Randy, is there any way to get in contact with the former owner and ask him to sell you Crome For the Pontiac, maybe worth a try! She's totally worth putting the Crome back on after painting. It would make a big difference. Love the car!

[@wineinbeautifulplaces1200]

I was thinking the same

[@duanemckamey9655]

Absolutely a classic louder exhaust note. That waterfall hood on this GM makes this one of the most beautiful domestic cars ever built IMHO. Burnt Orange or Light Copper might be my color choice. This to contrast green and emblems. I learned on 3 on the tree! Congrats!

[@robbieamsterdam1]

Great video! One thing you never should do is shifting to first gear while the car is rolling. That second gear will get you trough any corner.

[@verrierjoseph]

You bought a beautiful 53 Pontiac Cheiftain and it’s reminds me of my Dad’s 57 Pontiac Star Chief (Top of the line model). You got a great car. 😁👍

[@Ticncae]

Love it this video is awesome met you at copart a couple weeks ago super cool to see you around okc

[@AutoAuctionRebuilds]

Hey man it was good meeting you!

[@karlcrane7719]

@@AutoAuctionRebuilds paint the car

[@nayyeriqbal7142]

you did it again Randy, Win our heart. Love it, Love it, Love it classy beautiful we really want you to restore it to its glory.You the Man yuppie. Bring all your buddies to this project TK, Santa, and Austin. It will be fun watching more content on this. Thank you, Randy. And after a while, if you think of selling this GEM, I would prefer selling it to Gas Monkey Garage Yup...

[@jayswartzbaugh8553]

Everyone is doing patina these days. I suspect that trend, while cheaper to pull off with just a clear coat, will eventually fade - no pun intended. You have a fine old car there in great running condition, and it deserves to have the chrome re-installed, if you can get it from the prior owner and to receive a proper paint job. It would shine like a jewel.

[@israelballew4155]

Holy crap that thing is DRIPPING with cool. Love that light. They put money and effort into illuminating the engine so you were able to fix it yourself. Those times are long over.

[@anthonypoli8937]

Just wanted to add to the channel, paint it, two tone to break it up. Looks solid randy keep it up.

[@MrChrisbreezy10]

My grandpa had one of those way before my time he always talked about that car and how the chief would light up at night he loved his too

[@jayswartzbaugh8553]

The “wheel arch covers” are called “fender skirts”.😉

[@michaelbenardo5695]

Just like the young-uns think the lap-robe cord in the back rest is a hand-hold.

[@markfaas4052]

Sweet deal for a runner! I believe that is a pipe holder up on the dash. Those old 3 on a tree shifters get a bit gummed up on the linkage tube going to the engine compartment. Some compressed air and light oil free’s them up nice. Love it!

[@jimdavis3913]

Great car has much potential.cant wait to see what you do with this car.

[@bccphotec]

Whatever you do, DO NOT beat on this car like you do all your others. This thing deserves much more respect than that !

[@1978ranger]

I got a 3 on the tree in my falcon. 1st:in and down Reverse: in and up (like you did) 2nd: out and up 3rd: out and down

[@TimidToaster]

Looks very sharp, little clean up and it'll be a real head turner. Grats dude!

[@Grulaz]

beautiful car i can't wait to see it restored...

[@MrGavinspoppop]

I have to admit I got a kick seeing you find out how to shift a 3 on a tree ,,,, but you did it !!!! Bravo ~~~~ those covers are called Skirts paint it dark metallic purple

[@farber442]

Find the chrome for her I'm sure Pontiac parts would be available. She's awesome Hail to the chieftain.

[@haskellburks]

Hello Randy. Congrats on the Pontiac Chieftain. Can't wait to see what you're going to do with her.

[@stephenhorbatiuk2811]

Randy: I feel you paid fair money for the Pontiac. I think you will get awesome content out of that car. Love those fender skirts! Look forward to watching you do your thing. Cheers

[@MuzzleMike]

Fresh paint would look so cool on this one .

[@ernest922]

Randy this is such a great deal, im keen to see how its going to be transformed

[@conorbentley6175]

Love the patina on this thing! If you could find the chrome for it, just clear it, put the chrome on, do the interior. Car would look amazing! True survivor!

[@markpirateuk]

Dont fill the holes, find & replace ALL THE CHROME! Thats what makes this car awesome, whatever colour you paint it.

[@shoominati23]

Yeah, this car needs to be a PROJECT! not a quick flip.. find the chrome, replace the windows - heck even if you need a partscar (that might be the more economical option rather than buying each item piecemeal) take your time and it will be worth it in the end

[@larzDJ]

That lighted hood ornament is worth 5 grand alone! LOL LOVE that car! The door panels will be good to use as a template or custom panels. It's so beautiful, 4 doors don't matter!

[@DaBurt42O]

ATF for the power steering, 80w90 for the Trans and Rear Diff should be fine

[@diemaschine2287]

Man my first car at 16 was a 67 tempest. Straight 6 with 3 on the tree. All original with everything. This brought back memories. My mom didn't know stick at all so had to learn like you. Cool car

[@AnEverydayGamer]

That is one beautiful car! Would love to own one some day.

[@NoahClay6]

Really love that Pontiac and that hood ornament is just so awesome plus it still lights up! Also those could be original GM keys maybe and it could be a low mile car. I would love to see the door panels saved or get another set maybe. Also I would paint it and complete it. As always great video Randy.👌

[@russell11fitzgerald]

If you just imagine the shifter column on the floor Reverse is left end up first is straight down second is to the right and up and third is straight down to the right

[@PaddyBoy644]

3 on the tree is just a H pattern, 1st gear is a non synchro so do change into 1st unless your standing still. Put the extra money into finding the chrome work. I live the patina in my opinions I’d just keep it as is! Great work Randy Cheers Pat 🇦🇺

[@JoeManLARockinEmpire]

Action packed Video. Very addictive. Smash that thumbs up👍 Randy please paint it that would be awesome content.

[@stephensmith4666]

Fantastic Deal!!! That is one of the coolest cars Ive ever seen! Unbelievable!! I would keep that one at all costs.

[@s24gav]

you need to put the chrome back on it

[@gregt722]

Damn Randy! That’s a deal! Love the patina!

[@johngriffith7032]

Hard to believe that you have never driven a 3 on the tree. I'm guessing first gear is not synchro so you cannot shift into first without stopping first, unless you want to crunch the gears. You also made a mistake calling the engine a flathead V8 - it's a flathead straight eight. It sounds just like I remember my uncle's '54 Chieftain sounding. Its amazing that everything seems to work, so the prior owner(s) spent a good deal of money keeping it sound mechanically. Definitely a great car. I doubt the keys are original, they look too shiny and are not worn enough but they are definitely older GM key stock. Deal or not? If you're happy, that's what counts. Oh by the way, at the time my uncle had the '54 Pontiac, my other uncle, his brother, had a '55 Bel Air. One day, by accident, they discovered that the keys were interchangeable. The keys to the Pontiac worked in the Chevy and vice versa. And, I say paint it and put the white walls on!

[@DaveGreg100]

Yes! My grandfather drove home from a club in someone else's look a like 50 Pontiac many years ago.

[@donaldhenak4585]

Seeabove to learn the little trick to shift, quierly down into 1st gear while moving. No one here but me (an experienced farm machinery/truck driver, at age 16) seems to know this technique which comes second nature to me.

[@michaelbenardo5695]

That reminds me of my mother's Olds. She and pop both had Oldsmobiles, his was stick, her's was a HydraMatic. One day, she got into somebody else's Olds - her keys worked in it - that was a stick. She didn't think anything of it, but realized when she opened the trunk what had happened! When she got back to that place, the owner of that car was sitting there waiting, as he did not know how to drive with an automatic.

[@michaeldaniels921]

Your Pontiac was shown a lot of love and maintained , a very nice original 53, keep it original , paint it , finish the interior, I had a 54 ford same condition, would take me anywhere, enjoy it and hang on to it .