Sunday, June 28, 2009

1963 Studebaker Gran Turismo (GT Hawk)

Restoration: 1963 Studebaker Gran Turismo (GT Hawk)

Standard equipment includes power sterring, 289V8 engine with R-1 cam , radio, standard transimission with overdrive.

Car underwent a near frame off restoration in 2003 but was apparently well cared for in its previous life. For example, the original sub floor boxes (a rust prone area) are solid. The minimal rust in the fender and trunk was cut out and replaced with 20 ga rolled steel welded in place – no Bondo to cover up rust and no pop rivets. Rust prone areas were chemically treated. Stainless was removed and polished. A few chrome parts were re-chromed, otherwise the original chrome remained. Gauges were restored and of course the clock works.


The interior reflects years of careful ownership – door panels are original (except carpet), as is the upholstery (except for cloth inserts which were Phantom recreations) as was the headliner, sun visors, floor carpet and package tray and windless.


The largest restoration expense was in the mechanical area where the objective was to bring it back to another 46 years of reliable service. This included restoring rebuilding, and/or replacing virtually every removable part. The engine was overhauled .30 over using SI’s major engine re-build kit with R-1 cam. Starter, alternator, power steering, clutch, carburetor, water pump and just about everything else was included. The window tracks, and registers were refurbished and even the much overlooked window rollers were replaced. It has new brakes, coil and ignition parts, exhaust, shocks. Over $20,000 was invested to develop a good looking and reliable ‘63 Studebaker that can successfully compete from both appearance and reliability standpoint against any ‘63 out there. It was painted with Valspar basecoat/clear coat in a two tone red/white that best matched Studebaker color.


The theme for its restoration was to maintain as much of its actual appearance as feasible yet update it to make it highly presentable and reliable. It looks like an exceptionally well maintained "driver" from the early 60's, not a museum piece and is being sold only for health reasons and I have too many hawks.



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Additional photos of 63 Hawk