I've been lurking on here for a couple of years now. Actually, I graduated from the FWD forum (1991 Triple White CDV) as I've always been a RWD kinda guy. I really appreciate eveyone's advice and knowledge, not to mention "civil" dispositions as you rant and rave about each other's cars- like 'em or not.

Like many of you, I've always been into cars, but there has ALWAYS been something special about Cadillacs. Since my first ride in my uncle's new baby blue '79 CDV when I was 6, I was sold!

Presently, my fleet of cars stands at 5-Cadillac, 3 "other brands". I was @ 6-Cadillac, 4-"other" but I've sold a couple recently. Still into the import scene (former NSX owner), vintage VW circle ('57 Ragtop Oval), and custom truck crowd ("SoFine" Sierra), but Caddys outnumber the collection and take precedent. Yes, I am a full-blown "Cadilladdict"!

Anyways, here they are-

*Before I sold it my *MINT* '96 FWB, I searched for several months for the *right* triple black 95-96 FWB, and found this '95 in Texas with less than 50K and moonroof. Here's the work so far:

-20" Wheels (FINALLY!!!)
-Impala SS suspension/Bilsteins/Hotchkis sways
-Ram Air
-Billet Grille
-9C1 airdam/coolant hoses
-TB coolant bypass
-Corvette starter (don't you just love that sound, Elias?)
-Roadmaster Climate Control
-Tint (Sorry Occifer, is there a legal limit?)
-Shaved trunk lid
-Bumper guard delete
-Color matched license surround
-Ultra Silver side mouldings (to accentuate the chrome rockers)
-Fully color sanded/buffed (EVERY piece of trim, lights, bumpers, etc were removed for this TEDIOUS task)
-Blacked-out window mouldings (to highlight the upper chrome trim<-new, of course)
-Tinted tails/rear reflectors&side markers (by paint shop-check that gloss!)
-Full led lighting
-Euro signal repeaters
-Ford "V8" emblems (I know, the mother of all blasphemy)

On the agenda to be completed *soon*-
*PCM retune
*160 Stat
*Exhaust (still can't make up my mind- Borla, Dynomax, Flows?-read the thread, listened to clips
[thanks,Elias] what to do-what to do)
*Headers (?)
*Interior [in progress]
*Embroidered headrests
*Custom mats
*Illuminated emblems
*DVD entertainment/custom stereo
*Billet wheel, pedals, door sills
*Custom coated trim (goodbye woodgrain)
*Exterior signal mirrors
*More????

Additional pics of the wheels:

http://www.cadillacforums.com/forums/rwd-19xx-1985-deville-fleetwood-1985/84054-20-inch-wheel-question-93-96-a-2.html

http://www.cadillacforums.com/forums/rwd-19xx-1985-deville-fleetwood-1985/84054-20-inch-wheel-question-93-96-a-3.html#post807233

*Now the SLABS- '81 CDV. Rare(?) 1-year only color- NEPTUNE AQUA, over white leather. This color has to be seen in person! Esp. at dusk, when it looks blue-green. It's currently undergoing a FULL Fleetwood Couple transformation complete with exterior trimmings and new D'Elegance pillowed interior in factory white. Additionally, GOLD-SPOKED STAR WIRES + Vogues, composite headlamps (Caprice), Classic grille, full gold package and 42" Moonroof.

*Next, another rare color on a rare model- '81 Fleetwood Coupe in (Eldorado only) SAXONY RED with matching red interior. Special ordered in this color by the original owner-perhaps the ONLY one in existence (?). The interior was custom made at the factory and installed by the dealer prior to delivery. This one is getting a 42" moonroof also, and more than likely, it will be 90'd out once I locate a suitable (cheap) donor car. Of course, STAR WIRES and Vogues for this one, too.

>> I've been collecting parts for these 2 for almost 2 years now. Man, it's like having twins (kids)- you buy something for one, and the other has to have the same or it gets jealous..... The tires, wheels, grilles, NOS gold packages and moonroofs were a small fortune in themselves! <<

*Well, Halloween is around the corner, and what would that be without a hearse? Or two. That explains the license plate on the black FWB. Dressed appropriately in black (only because I couldn't find one any darker!), is my '61 Miller-Meteor Cadillac. Last but not least, a '61 Eureka Cadillac patient awaiting my decision on respray color-presently grey and similar in appearance to the first one. Actually, these are not my first introduction to private hearse ownership, nor my last. I had a 72 Superior previously..... and I'm working a deal for a *cherry* '69 at the moment. Pics of these and the aforementioned "other brands" posted upon request. Otherwise, I won't bore you!

ENJOY!

Beautiful cars!! I love them all, keep those things in awesome shape.

holy cow they're all perfect!!

Wow! Very nice! I hope you're going to participate in our 2007 Cadillac Calendar! Can I see some more pictures of that black Brougham??

Black Brougham is PERFECT! And those 20" wheels are the BEST DAMN WHEEL treatement I've seen for that size. Absolutely spot-on!

Well done all around,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, ,,,

Nice cars! As nice as that '96 is, I really like the '81 Fleetwood Brougham Coupe the most!

I'd really like to hear a driving comparison from the '61 to the '81s and the '96. That would be real interesting to read!

I also think it's real cool that you don't keep them stock, you modify them to fit your tastes. Which brings me to my next point, the wheels on the '96 are probably some of the best I've ever seen on a FWB. They're not the 5 spokes that everyone else does, but they remind me of the mid '90s Mercedes S Class rims, which is a very good thing!

Phenominal collection you have there! Thanks for posting, it's always nice to see o many Caddies well-cared for.

Beautiful vehicles!!!

When I was reading your list of modifications I thought I was reading about my car for a bit!! We both even have moonroofs in our vehicles :thumbsup:

Keep up the great work, you are an inspiration!

Regards,
Elias

P.S. The Vette starter is a great upgrade (sounds awesome too), and Borla is by far the way to go. No need to make a Cadillac sound like a truck!

:2thumbs: :jawdrop: :jawdrop: :jawdrop: :shocked2: :shocked: :bulging: :holycrap: :worship: :worship: :eek: :thumbsup:

Thats all i can say!


I need to go breath now....

Great caddys, the '81 DeVille is my favorite, love the color. A Fleetwood kit will set it off, I've been thinking of doing that to my '83.

Why would you want to change the '81 Fleetwood at all? Its gorgeous! If it was so rare, why would you cut it up?

Beautiful cars, all of them. Just curious, does your '81 have the 8-6-4 engine and is it still hooked up? How does it work? I read some interesting articles on the Caddy 8-6-4 and it was actually a very good system. The problem was the computer speed available at the time was not fast enough to activate/deactivate cylinders at the precise time and many people felt hesitation or stalling when cylinder mode changed. I'm sure if you put the high speed computers from today in that same car, the 8-6-4 would work perfectly.

First of all, thanks for the kind words and compliments. I knew you guys would go ape! B/C I know the type of "emotion" these cars still evoke in me, as the owner who's kinda "used" to having them around. Once you've caught your breath, maybe I'll post a couple of pics of the equally impressive (IMO) "other brands", but this is a Cadillac site though.... so I might have to make sure a wreath&crest shows up in the background somewhere.....

Can I see some more pictures of that black '95 Brougham??

Of course! I hope to take some more pics tomorrow. Especially of the front so you guys can check the BILLET grille.

Nice cars! As nice as that '95 is, I really like the '81 Fleetwood Brougham Coupe the most!

I'd really like to hear a driving comparison from the '61 to the '81s and the '96. That would be real interesting to read!

The wheels on the '96 are probably some of the best I've ever seen on a FWB. They're not the 5 spokes that everyone else does, but they remind me of the mid '90s Mercedes S Class rims, which is a very good thing!

You know, I tried for over 2 years to get my hands on that red Fleetwood Coupe. The owner put it on eBay 3 times- the first time, reserve wasn't met. Then he just up and said he wasn't going to sell it after all. Next, it appears again a year later the second time, & I got outbid in the last 2 seconds. The buyer backed out after making him wait a month. So he put it back on eBay a third time. No reserve. Well, no one must have been looking, b/c I finally picked it up for HALF of what auction #2 sold for. I knew it was special due to the color scheme - and just had to have it. Persistence (and a little luck) paid off.

Driving each of these cars from different generations only serves to remind you how far automotive engineering, technology and advancement have all come. The '61 Hearses drive just like you'd expect of 45-year old cars- 1 finger power steering, 110% body roll, yet a ride that can best be described as "heavenly" -with that long wheel base contributing. But the 390 has plenty of torque compared to the 368s. Overall though, it's antiquated, but in a way that makes most of us love older cars (charm?). Granted these are heavier than the standard production models, but from the front doors up, it's pretty much the same. Well, not really, but I won't get into that right now. Of course the '81's are more modern, and in line to what most of us are accustomed to in regards to driving convenience, amentities, ease of operation, economy and vehicle dynamics (handling, ride, stability, braking, etc). Now you can just in the '95 and just go. The LT1's power is light years ahead of the 368's, and so ecomony. "Up to date" so to speak compared to the previous ones. BUT the most distinguishing factor in the driving experience are the cars themselves. In the early 60's, you had few safety provisions, extensive chrome (metal) surrounding you inside, and with the wrap around windshield as a constant reminder (commercial chassis only), you now never forget that you are driving a true, vintage car. By the 80's, vinyl, plastic and tufted plush opulence is the standard fare. Think back to DALLAS, polyester suits, striped tube socks up to your knees and feathered hair. Moreover, you have to always remember that in their day, each was perhaps the best you could get- so it's like steppin' back in time a little and experiencing something that you were not around for, or old enough to drive and enjoy. That's the best thing about nice older cars- blasts from the past for those like us to appreciate and preserve.

The RIMS on the '95 have elicited NUMEROUS positive comments and compliments both here and locally. If I had a nickel for every camera phone I've seen pointed at it this week.......

the '81 DeVille is my favorite, love the color. A Fleetwood kit will set it off, I've been thinking of doing that to my '83.

Why would you want to change the '81 Fleetwood at all? Its gorgeous! If it was so rare, why would you cut it up?

Man, I just love Fleetwood Coupes. The first one I ever saw was an '81 back in '87. Triple black D'Elegance with a moonroof. It was stunning! That's why I have been in a constant search to for parts to convert the CDV (I have some extra pieces if you are interested!). Finding donor cars with undamaged parts has been the biggest ordeal-especially the trim. Had to pull from 4 donor Fleetwood Coupes in all- which are sooo hard to find in the bone-yards. As stated before, it's taken quite a while to locate what I needed. Since the Fleetwood Coupes use a different quarter glass combined with a bonded filler piece for that smaller glass, the trim shop will use the RED Coupe as a guide.

The CDV's color IS simply breathtaking, esp. in person. I've NEVER been a big fan of blues, but when I first laid eyes on that car, it was all over. I'm a sucker for white interiors also, and that sealed the deal for me. The last Fleewood Coupe parts car I found had *perfect* door and quarter interior panels in *WHITE* so now I'm set. Just waiting for the trim shop to finish the D'Elegance seats. Also, all of the woodgrain is being custom coated in GOLDEN bird's eye maple.

You did get me thinking about my plans to '90 the RED Coupe. In the end, I may just do the front header, grille and headlights. I was considering the full 90 pack b/c I wish to have it resprayed, so "why not?" was my thinking. But I may go more conservative. It is rare indeed as a true FW Coupe, but the color has to be one of a kind (from the factory). If anyone knows of another, I have a finder's fee in place.....

HOWEVER, both cars will be cut for the 42" sunroofs. I just happen to be lucky once again and secured (2) discontinued NOS Sky-top units. Combined with headliner boards and overhead consoles I pulled from sunroof equipped cars, it will look as close to a factory install as you can get now. Gotta let the sun shine in!

Beautiful cars, all of them. Just curious, does your '81 have the 8-6-4 engine and is it still hooked up? How does it work? I read some interesting articles on the Caddy 8-6-4 and it was actually a very good system. The problem was the computer speed available at the time was not fast enough to activate/deactivate cylinders at the precise time and many people felt hesitation or stalling when cylinder mode changed. I'm sure if you put the high speed computers from today in that same car, the 8-6-4 would work perfectly.

Both '81s were deactived by the original owners, well before 2500 miles. Neither could stand the hesitation, shuddering, etc. experienced with the cylinder deactivation/activation. It's ironic that Cadillac had this technology back then and yes, b/c of computer speed, it earned them a sour grape. Now look at DaimlerChrysler capitalizing on it 25 years later. I have extensive experience with the 300C, and it's remarkable. If no one told you, you'd never know it was equipped as such.

Sensational. These cars are nothing short of fantastic. Excellent work, although 90'ing out is not my style. I'd keep those babies looking the way they were meant to look. But I can't disagree with a guy who has this much good taste. Well done. Post many more pics of all these cars so I can have something fun to do while I'm in class, missing my Caddy.

There's an actual Fleetwood Brougham Coupe for sale here in Nova Scotia. Came into our shop this year for some work. Dark burgundy. VERY clean, just in need of some minor repairs. Don't know if you'd be interested in that one. I might be able to look into it for you. Price would not be very high.

- josh

Your Caddy's are GORGEOUS!! Are you re-doing the interior of the red one in white leather or replacing the seats w/ those from a newer model? If your are re-upholostering the leather i'm curious how much that costs if you have any idea?

CADBOY425- my first Caddy was a triple-white CDV! Wish I still had it..... Sigh...........

The RED Coupe has a near perfect interior, so I'm not messing with that one. Although a white interior would be soooo fine.

The AQUA CDV is being converted to a Fleetwood Coupe, and in doing so, I'm replacing the door panels and rear interior panels/trim with factory white pieces pulled from a donor car. The seats are D'Elegance button-tufted style. After much consideration, I decided to go with a premium grade vinyl (99.9% match, both color and grain to original) opposed to leather. We all know what happens to white leather after a while..... Anyways, it was more of a personal decision that was independent of cost.

Speaking of which, I was quoted $2950 leather, $2250 vinyl to do the front/rear seats at a local trim shop. "That's alot of buttons to cover", they said. True, and surrounding each of the buttons are squares of material to be sewn together. Thankfully, there's a little lady down in Alabama that my dad grew up with. She has 30+ years experience in auto upholstery restoration, specializing in show cars- you should see the trophies won for best interior-both original and modified. Her work is reasonable, yet phenomenal. Folks bring cars to her from all over the South. Front and rear seats, including custom embroidery (wreaths on the seat backs)- $850!

Wow! Very nice! I hope you're going to participate in our 2007 Cadillac Calendar!

Sorry I'm a little late to the party. It looks like the submissions thread has been closed by urbanski- true?
I've got one perfect for the month of October...:stirpot:

Sorry I'm a little late to the party. It looks like the submissions thread has been closed by urbanski- true?
I've got one perfect for the month of October...:stirpot:

HAHAH no ;)

that was a joke dude

i mean....well, you know what i mean

I thought that was the case. I mean, those last pics of that girl is enough to stop ANYTHING in it's tracks.

$850 is not bad at all!! Post pics when its done!

I really want a Lincoln Mark IV or '77-78 Eldorado Biarritz...but maybe I'd buy a 80-85 FWB Coupe instead as my "project/ classic car"... Those Brougham Coupes are just so damn beautifiul!

Can I see some more pictures of that black Brougham??

Here you go!

Plus more of the grille:

http://www.cadillacforums.com/forums/rwd-19xx-1985-deville-fleetwood-1985/85333-93-up-billet-grille.html#post810054

Love the stance -- nice and low!

Hey Hearsecutor, nice collection there man but I'm not posting about your fine Caddies instead I'm posting in regards to your "Chattanooga and not by choice" thingy. I'm moving to TN as soon as I sell my remaining real estate plus my home here in FL and was wondering why you dont like Chattanooga?. I was in Chattanooga 2 months ago scoping things out and came away with mixed feelings, I was wondering if you could give me the scoop on that place, pros/cons, etc.. I'm taking a trip to Nashville next so I can compare it to Chattanooga cause I'm hearing that its nicer than Chattanooga. Any input?. Thanks.

Destroyer-

PM your email address and I'll fill you in. Hate to bore the rest of you with it.

-Thanks!

haha, just noticed that! I'm glad somebody knows where I'm coming from ;)

BTW those are the nicest custom wheels I've ever seen on a Fleetwood, I love 'em, and usually I can't stand custom jobs on Fleetwoods.

Benzilla-

Gotta give credit where it's due! Your comment 'bout where you stay was inspiration for my declaration.

Thanks for your kind words about the rims. I would have to agree with you 110%- I couldn't be more pleased with how they compliment the style of the car and the acres of chrome trim. It is absolutely amazing how these wheels have transformed this car! If I had a nickel for every compliment and camera phone shot I've received on the street in the last couple of weeks, it would almost pay for them. Almost.

Those rims are like the originals updated for a new generation. I guess thats what I like about them, still very classy without being over the top. The lines are perfect. For once they don't look like a luxo-yacht trying to be a Corvette.

For me, they were definitely worth the wait- full face/disc, solid centered rims seem to work well on big cars. From a visual standpoint, they help anchor the car's size with the balance and proportion of a "strong" foundation.

You know, if you squint just right, you just might see a little bit of the Voyage concept.....

Benzilla-

I've got a lead on some Fleetwood Coupe roof trim for your CDV that you may be interested in. PM you email address at your convenience.

-Daved

Thanks, but i'm still not totaly sure I want to do it. I sort of like having it all DeVille. And if I was going to go Fleetwood, I'd switch out everything, in which case it would be easier to just buy a Fleetwood. Plus I'm putting all of my time/money into the Phaeton right now, so the '83 is probably staying a Deville. But thank you for telling me none the less :) Is the trim a whole car or just the parts?

-Ben

The trim is for the vinyl top. Came across the set online today. On eBay, there's the lower rocker trim (between the doors ONLY) currently at $365! I paid $20 for my set. The interior trim for the quarter windows, I have 2 sets- one of which you could have if you wanted to convert yours over.

Like I said, still not sure, but thanks for thinking to ask me. The lower rocker trim goes fot ALOT with the lowrider guys. Before that trend, nobody really cared and you could get stuff a lot easier.