[bbscamp]

I took delivery on the 4cyl. auto 61 Tempest a couple of weeks ago. Then snow....then the "Polar Vortex" cold...brutal. Finally it was dry and 45 degrees today. I got home at 3:30 and took the Tempest out for a little 15 min. spin. 1st drive!!!

Impression? actually it was a little rough to start, but ran quite smooth. Plenty of power. 2 speed shifted well. coming to a stop, it tended to almost stall, so I popped it in neutral, she evened out, then back in drive and idle was fine. Maybe float level? I don't know. It was very driveable, just a minor hiccup. Road suprisingly well. very smooth in fact. Much better ride than the early 60s Mopar A bodies I've had. IRS seems to work well!

I'm impressed with the little car. It seems that front window isn't too far away though. but better than the 66 bug I had!

Drum brakes stopped firm and fine. Steering felt a little loose, but nothing much.

Can't wait for more good weather.

Sent off an order to Ames for Door seals, channels, and catwiskers to cut the rattly windows and wind noise.

[63Banshee]

Welcome to the world of slant 4s. Start with the choke making sure it's opening correctly and fully when warm. Then move to idle screw function, points, idle rpm, timing chain stretch (timing light), etc. Second order inertial engine forces in these engines exacerbate tuning issues.

Good to hear you got to drive it.

[pontiaclady]

Post some pictures, love to see the 61!

[bbscamp]

I don't have many at this point, but here are a couple. Original paint, always serviced. I've got some decisions to make about her though. But man....she drives nice!

[mechanickeith]

That car is sweet!! Just some safety upgrades like dual master cyl & disk brakes. Add a fire ext. & put a good stereo in the glove box & drive the tires off of it!!!

[higgenslake]

What is below the heater control/headlight switch?

[mechanickeith]

Aftermarket turn signal switch??

[demonic68]

Originally Posted by bbscamp

I don't have many at this point, but here are a couple. Original paint, always serviced. I've got some decisions to make about her though. But man....she drives nice!

Wow that is one nice car good find

[bbscamp]

Thats an aftermarket delay wiper box.

I have a new stereo for it and an underdash box. I purchased the stock speaker position 6x9 dual cone thingy from ames. I'll put rear speakers in a box or rear shelf. I haven't decided yet.

Also bought some window channel sets and door seals to stop the glass rattle and door drafts! Door seals will go on "later". if/when painted.

[pontiaclady]

Nice! Looks in great shape. Thanks for sharing

[GaryK]

I got to meet bbscamp (Mike) today and talk Tempests! Its always cool to put a face to a name and talk cars. He came up, so I will have to make the trip down to him next time to see his 61.
Gary