’38 BUICK SPECIAL

Car: 1938 Buick

Other Goodies: Like many hot rods and street rods, this Buick has had more than one shop, and multiple sets of hands work on it. When it came to us, some parts were correctly done and some should have not been on the road (before and after pictured below)! It already had a well installed Heidt's MII front, but the rear was sketchy at best. To top it off, the coil over springs were way too heavy. Our goal was to get it riding right, while having that show stance.

We stripped it bare to the rails and started over. Using a Ridetech universal 4 link, coupled with Ridetech air struts, we were able to deliver both these goals. The car also utilized computer control ride height via an Accuair Elevel system with Endo VT tank/valves combo and ride height sensors. Front and rear sway bars were added in order to better the handling. The system was plumbed with seamless stainless 3/8" lines for trouble free operation.

(NOTE: All Pictures Below can be Clicked to Expand. Press ESC to close.)

Part 1:

The best thing about working on hot rods, is seeing the work that was done before. These are just a couple shots of the rear axle control arm tabs that were welded in. Someone had taken an early A body rear end and just stuck it in the chassis with the stock arms, then welded the tab wherever the arms lined up. Needless to say, the geometry was way off and that led to the harsh ride due to the lack of travel.

Part 2:

After getting everything cut away, the frame was plated and the new Ridetech 4 link tabs we welded in place. We use a combination of old school tape measures, and new school lasers to make sure the 4 link geometry is correct and the tabs are in the right places.

Part 3:

Someone had previously notched the floor to clear the axle, but the panel was riveted in place then construction caulk was used to seal it. This was all cut out and a new panel fabricated in its place. “Custom interior work" to hide the previous repairs. Finally, take a look at the final product...clean and beautiful!

Part 4:

With the Ridetech Shockwaves and the new sway bolted in place, it's starting to look like a complete rear end. Accuair systems are great when properly set up. The key is to have the ride height sensors mounted sturdy and with the arm in the correct position. With all custom bent stainless hardlines running to the bulkhead fittings, the result is a nice clean, functional Accuair system.

Part 5:

The last item the customer was ready to ditch was the old carburetor. An EZ EFI system by FAST was installed including an in tank pump that utilized a custom fabricated mount and top plate to house it. We have found that the frame mounted in-line pumps wind up creating so much noise that most of our customers opt for the in tank option.

’33 CHEVY 3 WINDOW