Sharp 72 convertible..

[Smartin]

A little overpriced, methinks. It still needs quite a few things to be right.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=300082631076&ssPageName=ADME:B:EF:US:11

I may have to call this place and see where they are, just to see the car.

[Smartin]

You're probably right on, Keith. Kind of reminds me of that red 71 that was on ebay 4 times recently. Good from afar, but far from good.

[Centurion]

I must say that, regardless of the car's deficiencies (and I agree that there are some), this auction includes the most stunning Centurion photographs I have ever seen. The triple black color scheme looks dynamite in the setting used for the photographs.

[Brad Conley]

A triple black convertible, from Arizona, without air????? I bet that was one hot ride!

I'm in total agreement about the detail of the car, chrome especially. Also, the paint looks very thick with quite a bit of orange peel in in the lower areas of the body where blocking would be difficult. Adam could always ask to look over the car and, ahem, ask to see the trunk lid trim up close and personal...one can never have too many sets of Centurion trunk lid trim!!

[Centurion]

The car appears to lack -- on both sides -- the short, bright molding that fits between the front bumper and front wheel opening molding, under the front marker lamp.

Adam, I do hope that you'll have an opportunity to check the car out personally.

[Smartin]

It's also missing the fabric shields on the inner wheel wells in the engine compartment. Right dash bezel is from a 73, and the other bezels are trashed. Grille is pitted. Aftermarket door guards (black rubber, tough to see). The white stripe on the bumper rubbers is poor. Aftermarket inside rear view mirror (looks like mine:laugh: ). The right front fender Centurion emblem looks to have broken the N off, and re-glued/attached at some point. Incorrect master cylinder, brake booster needs blasted an plated correctly. As I look closer, the booster looks like the wrong style.

I looked at the top again - it appears that the #2 bow is installed right next to the header. Notice the absence of the bump where the #2 bow should be. I wonder who thought that was right:rolleyes:


Anyone have anything to add?:spank: :laugh:

[buicks4ever]

Adam, did you check it out in person? What was the condition of the body and paint? Was there orange peel and did you investigate for any rust repairs? I don't understand how a car from Arizona could have such badly pitted pot metal. What do you think this car is worth? Thanks, Mark

[Smartin]

I am scheduling an appointment for Saturday to look at it. I had another guy email me about it to have a closer look...so I better go. It's about 15 miles from me.

[Smartin]

Off I go! Armed with a camera and a legal pad:coffee:

[Smartin]

Let the list begin.

4P67T2X178091

Cowl Tag Info:

ST 72 46667 X 00828
TR 478 A65 19-B PNT
03C

Chrome & Stainless: Bumpers rechromed 15 years ago and need it again - looks like it was cheaply done. Stainless is nice, but pot metal pieces are pitted in spots. Rear view mirror chrome is cloudy. I will elaborate in photos to follow.

Tires/ Wheels - wheels look pretty good. Tires look old and should be replaced.

Interior: Door panels good, seats good, aftermarket radio installed (dash is not cut), has 73 radio bezel with cruise and trip odometer cutout, but the options are NOT on the car! All dash besels are faded and need replacement or restoration. The chrome bezel/nut that holds the light switch in is gone. cigarette lighter is incorrect. There are no cracks in the dash pad.

Top: Obviously, there is a problem with the #2 bow. I was informed that this happened when they cycled the top in-house, and are having someone look at it for repair before car is sold. It has a glass back window, and the top looks good. My conly concern is the damage done by the #2 bow being stuffed up front like that. There HAS to be more damage than what I can see.

Undercarriage: Difficult to see anything - car was ziebarted and undercoated. The door jambs have the plugs where it was drilled for the coating. There is no visible rust on the car.

Rust rapair: Fortunately, the car is very solid. It did spend most of its life in AZ. I found NO evidence of any rust repair anywhere. They either did a knockout job, or there was no rust to begin with.

Paint: 15 year-old cosmetic restoration. Black paint looks very nice, and has only light surface scratching that can easily be buffed out. Black paint shows every flaw, so I was pleasantly surprised at the condition.

Engine Compartment: It's ugly...never been properly restored or taken care-of. I was informed of the fact that they will be replacing the lifters and rockers. I asked WHY? He started the car, and it was tick tick tick tick tick city. He told me that they dah diagnosed the problem and already have parts ordered to fix it. I would need to see an oil pressure guage on this car before I bought it. The ticking could be a multitude of things: exhaust manifold leaks, a couple bad lifters, or a broken valve spring, etc. It sounded to me like it might be starving for oil....or the lifters are leaking down and causing the diesel-like noise. Other things in the engine compartment include - wrong brake booster & master cylinder (they are operational), needs dust shields installed on the wheelhouses, needs proper decal on air cleaner. Engine compartment needs to be gutted and painted.

Exhaust system is a single exhaust....appears to be solid, but sounded a little loud and rattly, recommend replacement.

Weatherstripping/Rubber - most of it is in good shape. The door rubber was new when car was restored, and makes both doors very difficult to close. Slamming doors is not good for them, or the parts inside them. Recommend door rubber replacement. U-shaped rubber pieces under quarter windows in the door jambs need replacement...they are cracking and falling apart. All other rubber is good. I had mentioned the bumper rubbers were in need of replacement in another post, they are OK for a driver....might be able to be worked over to look good.

Sunvisors need replacement.

Missing front lower rocker trim in front of front wheels...this was mentioned already by Brian.

Car has a block heater and no A/C - which makes me believe this was a northern car for at least the first few years of its life. No ones orders a triple black convertible with no A/C and a block heater in AZ.

I DO know the car was in AZ since 1980, the car has EVERY repair receipt since then in a binder.

A $13k restoration final invoice is also in there. It appears the paint and top were done in 1991-1992. That is some big bucks to spend just for paint and top in 1991. Original bid was $7k:Dou:


OK! Pictures...


You can see the condition of the upper taillight surrounds...they look just like most of the other ones you see....very pitted.

http://www.buickpartsdirectory.com/ajesh/small/triple_black001.jpg


Here you can see the aftermarket radio and 73 bezel with the cruise/trip odo holes...and no cruise OR trip odo on the car. There is an odd knob on the lower portion of the dash...it has two cut wires on the back side of it. Unknown purpose....and another pull knob that I didn't see when I was there below the odd knob. This appears to be another pull knob for the vents.

http://www.buickpartsdirectory.com/ajesh/small/triple_black002.jpg


A fairly good representation of the condition of the dash bezels...faded and worn. This is very typical of sun-soaked southern cars. Note the missing light switch chrome nut.

http://www.buickpartsdirectory.com/ajesh/small/triple_black003.jpg


This is the only "bad" spot I could find with the paint. They obviously missed a spot...drivers door front door jamb. Note door rubber is broken in two pieces.

http://www.buickpartsdirectory.com/ajesh/small/triple_black004.jpg


Wrong booster and master cylinder! And spray bombed black...I HATE that. The restoration, as you can see, did not include the engine bay components.

http://www.buickpartsdirectory.com/ajesh/small/triple_black005.jpg


Note the solid mount on the fan - no clutch - this is correct on non-AC cars. The fan shroud was spray bombed black, it should be bare plastic.

http://www.buickpartsdirectory.com/ajesh/small/triple_black006.jpg


This is a rare shot of the passenger side...it's not too often you can see so much space in these cars, due to a large percentage of the cars having AC

http://www.buickpartsdirectory.com/ajesh/small/triple_black007.jpg


Missing hood insulation:rolleyes:

http://www.buickpartsdirectory.com/ajesh/small/triple_black008.jpg


The dreaded broken N on the centurion emblem...this is the passenger side. The letter is secured on the car, but I'm not sure how.

http://www.buickpartsdirectory.com/ajesh/small/triple_black009.jpg


This one hurts...

http://www.buickpartsdirectory.com/ajesh/small/triple_black010.jpg


You can see the #2 bow stuffed up into the header bow.

http://www.buickpartsdirectory.com/ajesh/small/triple_black011.jpg


I belive the #2 bow ripped the inner fabric of the top when it got lodged in the header. Personally, I don't know how this was physically possible....I would've liked to see what they did when they cycled the top.

http://www.buickpartsdirectory.com/ajesh/small/triple_black012.jpg


Here is your ripped fabric, and location the bow is SUPPOSED to be.

http://www.buickpartsdirectory.com/ajesh/small/triple_black013.jpg


The car has at least 117k miles on it...the brake pedal is nasty....very worn. The carpet appears to have been replaced at one point...the high beam switch hole is missing the grommet.

http://www.buickpartsdirectory.com/ajesh/small/triple_black014.jpg


This is the only rust I could find on the car....it appears the heater core was leaking at some time, and therefore it put some surface rust on the top floor board. After seeing this, I got under the car and checked for weaks spots in the floor...none found.

http://www.buickpartsdirectory.com/ajesh/small/triple_black015.jpg


Passenger side bezel...could use replacement to look perfect. It's faded and worn just like the others.

http://www.buickpartsdirectory.com/ajesh/small/triple_black016.jpg


Just another shot of the instrument cluster..

http://www.buickpartsdirectory.com/ajesh/small/triple_black017.jpg

[Bob Alberini]

You did a beautiful job of inspecting the car, Adam. It reflects the many suspicions we had about the car and included more things that we never would have known about. What you did provides living proof that a vehicle really needs to be examined in person to really know how good or bad it is.

[buicks4ever]

I'll second that. Thanks for checking the car out. Love the color combo, but I'm going to have to pass on this one.

[Smartin]

Mark, Kevin had mentioned someone from Chicago was in communication with him regarding the car. Was that you, perhaps? He wondered if I was inspecting the car for said person in Chicago.

[buicks4ever]

Most likely it was me. I talked with Kevin once on the phone, but it was after hours and he said he'd call me back the next day to go through the documentation, but never did. I did make an offer on the car, but it was not to his liking, so I let it go. As I stated before, I love the color, and of course, the trunk stainless, but with so few options, and all of the work (as you've noted) is needed, I can't see making that kind of investment. What do you think is a fair price for this car?

[Smartin]

$15,100 and rising!!!!!

[buicks4ever]

Adam, I see what they're (the people at St. Louis Car Museum) bidding. I wanted your personal opinion as to the value of this car.

[Smartin]

$9k? Tough call...

It would be nice if I saw the car when the top was fixed...and the motor wasn't tapping.

[Doug Bethune]

Adam,

In review of your notes and photos on the 72' Black convertible that sold yesterday at high bid of $15,400.00. The For Sale asking price of $18K or best offer on my original condition '72 Gold convertible in comparison is right in line based on the difference in conditions of the two cars. You could virtually eat off of my dash-board as it is clean as the kitchen table and as new. Thanks again for all the information. Doug Bethune :coffee:

[Centurion]

Doug, I commented to Bob Alberini on Saturday that your Champagne Gold '72 convertible would be a far wiser buy for someone seeking a '72 convertible! Your car is absolutely stunning.

[Doug Bethune]

Thank you Brian for the complement. As an update, I did talk to a man today at the museum in St. Louis and the Black '72 will be sold to the highest bidder even though the bidding had ended and their reserve was not met. Evidently the final negotiations were underway by both parties to reach an amiable price. He would not confirm but I believe $16K is the number. Doug Bethune

[Smartin]

It's back!

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Buick-Centurion-1972-Buick-Centurion-Convertible-TRIPLE-BLACK-455-CID_W0QQitemZ300086385723QQihZ020QQcategoryZ6144QQ ssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

[EEE]

I saw the grill and thought what the hell.. That's alot of cash for that car..

There was a tripple black '72 conv. only a few blocks from me that had a bump on the front bumper. I left my number on the windshield and he called me and wanted to sell it, engine was supposedly fitted with a bunch of chrome. He ended up putting it on ebay where it went for 3.500$ or similar, the guy didn't let it go, I guess he didn't understand the reserve function, and now I'm not sure where it is. I think he wanted like 7.5k$ for it.

[EEE]

Regarding the 2nd top bow, mine was in the same position when I got my car, but only on one side. It had bent the small arms that holds it and jammed it against the front. I got a replacement arm, and put it back in it's rightful position; it still kind of wants to do the same when you bring it up, and you have to help it settle in the right position.

[buicks4ever]

The triple black Centurion is sold. They just pulled it off ebay.

[dewbers]

Gents, I wish I read your posts before I bought the 72 Buick Convertible from the St Louis Car Museum... :(
I am damn near heart broken. Not being as wise as you fellas and still learning my through this, but I was excited to see a Centurion Club and was exicted to join you all with this new ride. Now, I am not sure.... Nothing peronsal, you were just sharing your thoughts, but I kinda feel like I have bought a car I thought I was getting a deal on, to find that I perhaps I have over paid for something less than desirable.
Thanks,
Steve

[scottrod]

Hang in there, Steve. You still bought a beautiful car and it's value is only going to go up since there weren't many of these built and there are very few in equal or better condition than yours. Besides, what good is an old car if you can't work on it's weak points. Get whatever help you can from the experts on this board and drive it proudly.

[Centurion]

Steve, we're glad you're here! I must agree with scottrod. It is easy for us to nitpick every detail, but that does not diminish the fact that the car is a Centurion convertible that is beautiful in many details.

Few of us have Centurions that can stand up to intense scrutiny. Most of us have cars that are works-in-progress, but we enjoy showing and driving them just the same.

As noted, any problems can be corrected over time, and I do think that this car can be driven proudly.

Please keep us posted and let us know any way that we can help you. And I hope you will join the BCA and participate in some of the many Buick events during the years ahead.

[Smartin]

Welcome to the forums, Steve.

I have to ask: What did they say about the ticking lifters, and what are they doing about the top? They said to me, that both of those conditions would be addressed before the car left.

Please take note to the others' responses above. The car is definitely a head turner. You're ahead of the game with a really nice paint job already. A little engine compartment detailing, and you'll be doing great:beers: Keep in mind that I was extremely hard on that car with the description I gave. Honestly, I'd like to see how all of our cars would hold up to that kind of grilling.

Keep your chin up - we're here to help with any questions or help you need. We usually know where to find the best parts, too:Brow:

[Bob Alberini]

Hi Steve,
Pay real close attention to what all the guys have said! We're thrilled to have you as part of the community and your new acquisition will give you many hours of enjoyment. Are there flaws? Sure, but like Adam said, which of our cars don't have them? You'll draw lots of attention driving a beautiful automobile and I'm sure all of us will do what we can to help you locate some of the things you may need and want along the way. Sorry, I've not been home this evening but I'll get the number of black interiors built on the 72 C converts and answer that question for you. Once again, welcome to Centurion Central. Some of us have appreciated them since they were new; for others it is a new discovery. Regardless, you're part of the family now.

[Bob Alberini]

Here are the production numbers for interior colors for 72 Centurion convertibles: white - 1211, saddle - 527, black - 390 and green - 268.

[Robroy]

We have all made them, those deals that just went a little too quick.
I agree with the others on this thread, it’s dam nice car and prices are going up not down.
Life is short, so enjoy your new beautiful car!!!:xyxthumbs:

[dewbers]

:beers: Ok guys, I feel 100% better right now than I did at this point yesterday!
THANK YOU!!! :laugh:
One of you mentioned family, and I gotta tell ya, I feel like it now. Very kind words and great encouragement from each of you. I've been a buick guy for a long time. Started with a 71 Buick Skylark Convertible that I sold when it was time to "grow up" and get married. Now, 16 yrs and 4 kids later, I said screw it, I have to find a ride that can hold us all when we want the wind blowing through our hair! Tried a jeep and it was a blast, but I could only take a few at a time. Started looking at muscle cars and almost bought an Olds 442 convertible, but it was a project car and I wanted instant gratification. So I kept looking. I found this one and I had to have it. Realizig it wasn't perfect, I stll felt it was a good deal. BTW, I DID NOT PAY $19,900 for it as stated on their web page. Didn't pay their ask price either. Don't know if I should post what I did pay or not. If you all ask, I'll share...
They did replace the rockers and lifters in the engine that resolved the tapping sound, plus they cleaned up the engine compartment. They also replacee/fixed the "problem" with the roof. (I can't remember what you all called it.) So those two items were taken care of.
What else? I need to go back and re-read some of the "critiquing" you all offered, because you know what you're talking about and I don't! It sounds like you have good idea's about needs to be done! Once I get the car, I'll be asking for a bunch of help. (ie, where to get parts, cost of stuff, etc...)
You all have been very gracious with your comments and with welcoming me into the "family"....... I am thankful. I've been part of these types forums before, and not everyone is as welcoming as you are, nor as polite. I tip my hat to you....... one of these days, I'll buy the first round! :beers:
Thanks again,
Steve

[Bob Alberini]

Steve,
You may not be quite ready to hunt parts yet but there is a 72 LeSabre sedan -- interior only -- that is currently running on ebay. The car was pretty basic but he might still have the right hand dash bezel you need. The ebay number is 120093891670 and the guy is asking folks to contact him for the parts they need so it might be worth your effort to find out. The car did not have cruise or speed alert and trip set so the right hand bezel would be correct for your car.

[dewbers]

Hey Bob, thanks for the heads up. I'll check it out. I am not 100% sure what that is, but I'll go look....... Can I ask for help once I see if he has it? :o
Steve

[Bob Alberini]

Steve,
This is the dash bezel that surrounds the radio and clock openings. Your convertible has one from a 73 and, as best as I can recall, the LeSabre sedan had a pretty nice interior. Your car does not have either speed alert and trip set or cruise control and the LeSabre sedan lacked them as well so the piece would be correct for your car. Of course, ask any questions if the guy still has the item and there is something you are unsure of.