Re: [A/S] Bless Those Big Blocks...

["overlander_64" <overlander64@xxxx>]

The old Cadillac 501 cubic inch (8.2 Liter) V8 was something of a 
surprise in my '75 Eldorado Convertible given its 2.70 final drive 
ratio. It actually handles my 6,000 pound '64 Overlander with 
comparative ease (I wouldn't consider taking this combination 
through the Rocky Mountains, but here in the Mississippi River 
Valley it is workable). The only disconcerting thing is when the 
front wheels break loose and start spinning on damp pavement when 
trying to start from a stop sign (this only happens when I don't 
have the weight distribution bars pulled up quite far enough). At 
least in its stock form (with 6,000 pound factory trailer tow 
rating), the Eldorado is better suited to the lighter Minuet 6.0 
Metre - - there have been many times when I have thought how nice it 
would have been if the Eldorado had rear wheel drive which would 
simplify changing the final drive ratio.

If all goes well with the mechanics on Wednesday, the Eldorado will 
be my tow vehicle for the Minuet next summer (major front end work 
is needed to keep the front suspension from bottoming-out). The 
highway (US 60) from Sikeston, Missouri to Springfield, Missouri is 
one of my favorite stretches of highway for top-down motoring so I 
am really looking forward to the WBCCI International Rally in 
Springfield. 

Kevin D. Allen
WBCCI/VAC/Free Wheelers/Computer Club #6359
1964 Overlander International/1999 GMC K2500 Suburban (7400 
VORTEC/4.10 Differentials)
1978 Argosy Minuet 6.0 Metre/1975 Cadillac Eldorado Convertible (8.2 
Liter V8/2.70 Final Drive)