This ’64 Daytona is a rare bird – one of only 703 convertibles produced in the final year of operations at South Bend. The paint color is Jet Green, which is a Studebaker color. The original body color (as delivered from the factory) was Desert Sand. Not one of the most exciting Stude paint colors.
I replaced suspension, brakes, did body and paint and some engine work.
Installed new upholstery and carpet and topped it off with a new white convertible roof. I also repainted the interior trim, steering wheel and column.
Did a complete disassembly of the body for repair work and paint. The car had several points of previous damage – shoddily covered up with bondo, more bondo and failing paint over rust. A not uncommon condition for a 63 year old metal car.
I replaced the front lower valance and replaced the inner fender on the driver’s side with the correct two light panel. Cleaned/refurbed the light housings to replace the front park light lens. I installed a re-chromed rear bumper and replaced the front one with a new bumper. New window and door weather striping all around. Also welded on the correct brackets for the dampener weights in the front of the car, which were missing.
The owner, who does some of his own mechanic’n will install the front grill, the headlights: rims and lens and finish the detail work, such as painting the rims and other small jobs.
Minimal engine work was done. I freed up the valves, rebuilt the distributor and changed the carb to a four barrel with an aluminum Quademon intake manifold. This manifold is a rare aftermarket Studebaker piece of speed equipment. Then tuned it – this old car now starts on the first crank and purrs like a kitten.
Yep….I restore more than just Avantis!
My work on this Daytona is finished and it’s ready to roll – waiting for owner pickup. What a classy ride! As I think of driving this baby with a light breeze blowing back my hair…I’m a bit jealous.
Bez Auto Alchemy 