My first in1977 was a 1967 cougar, I was 21, still got the car, now I'm 67, 46 years with my cougar! I drive it a few times a month now, total restoration here in north California, thanks!
I had a 67 Cougar also. Boy what a pretty car. I wish there were more restored and valued like it's sister car the Mustang. It was a prettier , more luxurious car and had such beautiful lines and what about the grill, pop up head lights and those turn signals ?
My first car was a '59 Chevy Biscayne 4-door body in red/white. All gray interior, with Inline-6 and 3-on-the-tree. It had holes in the trunk floor, but otherwise looked fairly good top side. I recall it didn't require a key to start the engine. The ignition switch functioned without key if it wasn't locked out. That was about 55 years ago now. I didn't keep it long, replaced it with a used '66 Buick Skylark hardtop V8 that I still have. I admire the work you did to restore your Bel Air and keep it nice.
Yeah, my Bel Air docent need a key unless the switch is turned to "lock" also. Nice your first car was a 59 Chevy..... Nice you still have your 66 Buick.
I've had my first car for 11 years as of yesterday. Bought it a week before I got my permit. All of the people my age I know have been through more cars than girlfriends at this point. Funny you mention blocking the EGR line off, my dad said they used to do that with a steel ball bearing in the end of the line until people caught on to it and made it illegal. I also used to trash pick and even ran a craigslist ad for outdoor power equipment repair, then worked in a hydraulic repair shop for 4 years while working at UPS all at the same time for a while. I paid for my truck mowing lawns and repairing lawnmowers and started doing dump runs for certain people with it for quite a while. People like us aren't very common anymore. I didn't grow up with wealthy parents so anything I wanted past age 13 or so I earned the money and bought it myself. I still have my 16 drawer Craftsman toolbox I saved money up mowing lawns with, had that for 15 years as of last month.
Thats awesome..... you sound a lot like myself. I still garbage pick power equipment to fix and sell.... sometimes even buying power equipment in estate sales to fix and sell. I didn't grow up with wealthy folks either. When I told my folks that I wanted a car, dad stated I can have one, but I need to pay for it and all its costs myself. He said I can have anything I want, as long as I pay for it! I ended up with a 59 Chevy. Mom was not very happy, but dad liked the car and helped me with fixing it up.... as long as I had the money to pay for the parts. Dad was great at solutions to fixing things, and often helped me with all my project cars over the years. We worked very well together.
I'm the youngest of 5 kids and only one not born in Warren, Mich. I really enjoyed your rambling. I felt like a neighbor, stopping to barrow a tool on a Saturday afternoon and asked about your Chevy. Ramble all you want. I envy you. My first car was a nicely restored '67 Cougar. It was beautiful and I always said I'd never sell it and keep it to give to my son or daughter some day. Well life isn't so predictable and I sold it in my late twenties. I kick myself every time I see a car restored and kept like yours. God I wish I still had that car. So many memories in that car and back seat. Some good , some bad. Like I said , I envy you. Ty, for your story ! P.s. the Catalina looked beautiful. Great lines.
Hi Howard, I think it is awesome that you still own, maintain & drive your first car, I have met a guy who also still owns his first car, however, it is full of stuff that he stores in the car in his garage, the car has not moved or started for over thirty years. He said he will never sell it because it`s his first car. I would always keep my vehicles running and driving, that is the only way to enjoy the car and keep making memories. Vehicles need to be driven , I have seen vehicles that have been parked outside for decades in backyards with the wheels sunk half into the dirt, & floor pans making contact with the moist dirt . most of the time these cars are scrap, mother nature will take back what was hers. I enjoyed this video Howard. Your 59 Chevrolet is a beauty, it stays this way from the loving care that you give it.
Yep, I'v see people park cars in the yard until they're sunk into the ground.... Leaving a un-used car outside really ruins them quick. My Bel Air has been driven every year since I purchased it, and garaged since 1981.
Howard, it's cold outside , what an interesting video as I sit here eating some homemade vegetable soup. Thank you for sharing all your memories of your 59. I greatly enjoyed it !!
As a teen back in the 60's, I used to cruise car dealer lots on my bike and I remember seeing many cars that had the odometers turned back. I'd see a car out back, then a week or so later, it would be cleaned up and parked out front in the used car lot. I particularly remember a '63 Ford Country Squire that had 93K on it when it was out back, but showed 43K a week later when it was out front. The Chevy dealer as a matter of routine, turned all their used car odometers to zero.
This is the first time that I saw your channel. After seeing your video we sound like clones! I graduated in1978. I was in auto shop 2 hours a day as a junior and then 3 hours a day as a senior because I was a teachers assistant. I was in the Washington state Plymouth troubleshooting contest in 1978. But our school came in second place so didn't get the scholarship. Glad that you kept your car. My first car was a 1956 Chevy 2 door 150 business coupe. Wish I would have kept mine. Thanks for the trip down memory lane.
I'm more of a Ford guy also, but have always had a special spot in my heart for 59 Chevy's. I just love the wild styling. All my everyday cars from the past 42 years have been Ford's.
Its cool i found your video,my first car was a 1960 Be lair.I bought it in 74 it had a 235 6 cylinder and power glide transmission ,paid 200 bucks.Sad to say sold it in 85 for 500 bucks. I rebuilt everything in it,put a 348 with try power and new power glide then someone hit the driver door in 84 and i moved to Oregon from So Cal in 85 . My one regret in life! But i still dream about that car!
Hello Howard. Thank You for giving us the history of you with your ownership of the car. The only thing I can say after watching the video is ONE GREAT MAN WITH ONE GREAT CAR. I have owned my 1972 Chevy Cheyenne since 1981. Great truck but I have to save all my money to be able to put gas in it. (lol) Hope to meet you one day. Take Care. Clint.
I enjoyed hearing your story. That's a nicely optioned car with the black paint and a 348! I have a 1960 Bel Air that I just picked up about a year ago. I'm trying to get in contact with previous owners to hopefully find out more about it. And I do actually still have my first car, a 1987 Crown Vic 2-door that I bought in 2008 when I was 16.
Howard, The longest I have owned any vehicle is 19 years. starting at age 16 my first car was a 1960 Plymouth Furry , it was a 2 door , V-8 (318 Polly eng.) Auto Trans- push button. Wish I still had it today.
Hi Howard, hope you are feeling fine. You look healthy and I hope you stay that way. This is a great video going down memory lane. I admire your stance on car shows and the Charity scams. The Belair looks great. Keep the videos coming.
SWEET RIDE... I like the rambling story line. Very interesting... All great memories and I might have seen you up north at the St Ignes car show. YES I DO remember the stupid one that crashed in to the crowd that year. I went a few more time but I have stopped going in resent years. Maybe this year I'll take a drive for the day type thing. I sold my 1947 Chev aero back. I'm looking into a 1956 Cadillac coupe deville but that will have to go through a completely once over to make sure I can do the traveling time safety wise. Have a great one.. See you in your next video..
Thats awesome you still have your first car. Being a first car, that scores big points in my book. It's not that I don't like them, I just see them everywhere..... but see the 56's the least. It's the 57 that has flooded the market.
Yes Howard, you sure can talk! Thank God for that you pick a half decent topic. I thoroughly enjoyed your ramblings on your life with the Chevrolet and all of the other side detours that you took us on. There is a lot for younger folk to learn from a guy like you. You seem to have the patience of Job on some of your projects which is good to share to the impatient, must have or happen now, younger generations that have followed us. Thanks again for allowing us to walk around in your shoes. Much appreciated!
i thought i was paticular with my cars 4 decades old paint job is crazy your car is just beautiful if i ever get to mich id like to look you up when i had my 59 conv 348 had a guy with a 60 belair 283 with a few mods he thought he could mop up the 348 i dont like to drag race but could not resist the challege well my 348 all stock walked away from him just another fun memory
Yeah, thee 348 has a lot more get up and go than the 283, even so called built ones. The 283 has small valves, so if you want performance from it, newer heads with larger valves is kinda necessary.
Howard, I've thanked you in the past but I need to say thanks again. Love hearing the history of you and your car. In 1980 living in Richmond Michigan. I bought my first and second car from L&H auto wrecking on 26 mile road. My brother in laws family owed the business and they were very helpful with car parts for me. My third car is my 67 Tempest I bought in February 1984 while in the military stationed in Arizona. Of course I still have it and it's coming alone nicely as my son and I rework it. Thanks again and look forward to more videos.
Still own my 3rd car bought in 1981,1968 SS396 Chevelle.Owned .3 late greats 1960 Impala convert 348 Turboglide, 1959 2 Dr hardtop and1962 Belair 4 dr.
@@nicksnarski5973 I had a 60 Bel Air with a 283 Turboglide. Out of the hole it was slow, but once it was rolling it was ok. The car did get great gas milage..... but I was not a huge fan of the Turboglide.
Great video. Amazing story on 45 years of your Bel Air ownership. Liked the picture of the Bel Air with the moon hubcaps and beauty rings although understand your preference for originality. Always liked the Vega and laughed when you said they rusted on the showroom floor. The 348 is an awesome motor and the top option for “59. The $7.00 per gallon gas was terrible and limited my driving as well. Agree with you about the rip off auto shows. I go to only one in Delavan, WI sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce with a $15.00 entry fee. Enjoy your rambling which is a great story.
What a beautiful ‘59 Chevy. I remember seeing those everywhere when I was young. My next door neighbors had a ‘60 with triple taillights, also white. My uncle had i believe a ‘59 also, 3 on the tree, no radio, no power assist. He called it his “sports car.” I miss the cars of the late 50s and 60s. So roomy and sensibly proportioned. Still handsome in 2023. Btw, I’m way behind you, but I have a Nissan Altima 2004, on its way to 20 years old, which I purchased new. Uses no oil, original except AC compressor, and alternator. Had some belts and hoses changed recently. I think it could last longer. I know it’s not a Chevy, or a classic. Should I keep it longer?
So cool! I drove my '00 Chevy Cavalier since new and had it all the way until '21 when the trans went out and didn't have the $ to get it fixed, otherwise I'd still be driving it.
Very nice story and car, keep it going for the next generation to enjoy, glad you kept it looking original and didn't hot rod it out My first ride was a 59 chevy apache short bed truck that I paid 100.00 bucks for when I was a freshman in high school. Long story short I ended up getting rid of it as I just got married to a woman that was born in 59, always said I traded my truck for a woman, over the yrs things happen and we went our separate ways, man I sure miss my ol truck
Yep.... life happens, and cars get traded or sold off. I just seemed to hang onto the Bel Air, first off because I loved the styling of the 59 Chevy, second off, I purchased a Vega and kinda needed a second car due to that. You will NEVER see that styling repeated of the 59 GM cars. The panels were difficult and expensive for the manufactures to make.
My friend Dave had all the 59 GM flat top cars. I think he has sold them all except for one 59 Cadillac.... he had two 59 Caddy's, but the one, his summer beater dropped a valve, so he sold it. It was 100% original, so the whole drivetrain really needed a good going threw. Seeing he has a second one that is like brand new, is why he decided to sell the every day one. I have videos of all his flat top 59 GM cars in past videos, even riding in some of them.
I live just 2.5 miles from the western end of Hwy 2 in Everett Wa. I’ve rode from one end to the other of Hwy 2 and as you said it is a great Hwy. Very scenic. Love your content. I still own my first ride as well, a 1964 F100, it was a rusted out Minnesota truck my father gave me on my 14th birthday in 1978. Believe it or not the same day I got my drivers license.
Enjoy hearing you reminisce about your 1958 Bel Air. I was able to keep my first car, a 1965 Dodge Coronet 500 Convertible from October of 1974 through March of 2012 when a financial emergency necessitated its sale. I have owned my 1985 Oldsmobile 1985 Oldsmobile Delta 88 Royale Brougham Luxury Sedan since April 21, 1985, and plan to keep it as long as I am able to drive. It currently has 108,000 miles.
A 65 Cornet convertible..... nice! I almost bought an 85 Olds 98 Regency Brougham a couple years ago, because it was super clean. It had a bad engine though..... it froze and cracked the block. He was asking $3000..... I offered him $2000 due to its needing an engine. It had the 3800 V6 in it. It ran and drove, as he had epoxied the cracks up, but they still leaked.
You really made my Sunday. I watched it in two parts Howard I wonder if you’re the longest Belair owner I don’t think anybody’s had a Belair as long as you have.
I have 2007 Civic Hybrid that I purchased new. Payed cash. 122,000 miles. I have never kept a car this long. I told my today that I plan to keep this car even if I buy a new one. 1 set front brake pads. 2 belts. Air filters,oil filters, wiper blades, and cruise control switch. Oh tires. It’s never had a light bulb. The headliner is starting to come done. I really like it. I get 43 mpg average. I only have to go to gas station once every 3 months.
Other than the switch, all the stuff you replaced is normal maintenance stuff, so that docent count, as any car would need that. Sounds like my 08 F150.... I got it new and really have never had to do anything to it. One axle seal and Ford had to replace the plastic intake manifold due to a crack. That was covered under warrantee.
You know, I worked at FedEx as mechanic and I have replaced hundreds of those intakes. We had over 1500 vehicles in Memphis, mostly Ford. Only 23 of us and the vehicles were on 120 intervals.
@@ricktotty2283 I have been under the impression that plastic intake was an issue with that 4.6L engine, as the truck was out of warranty when they replaced it, but Ford still covered it.
I was in fleet operations at FedEx. We were able to file warranty just like I did when I was at Ford. Many of our police cars had these plastic intakes also Unlike at Ford when we couldn’t have a rejection at the Fed we were expected to have a 50% rejection rate. When you a tech at Fed you are not just a mechanic. You the warranty, parts clerk, and tire specialist and so on. I was with Ford 15 years and Fed 21 years until I retired. I was aloud file warranty on any product we had. We had many vehicles with over 400,000 miles. Many of these vehicles had more than one intake.
@@ricktotty2283 If that intake ever cracks again, there are some good aftermarket manifolds I hear last longer than the factory ones. I don't drive the truck much anymore. I have put 3000 miles on it in the past two years. Most of those miles were from going up north to the cottage..... thats 380 miles one way.
Just discovered your site while searching for information about my 64 catalina, I've got windshield fog so I'm not a mechanic but I'm not stupid either plus we got Google now, right, so I guess it's got a coolant leak somewhere, long story short I found a hose ?I think it's a vacuum right in front of distributer cap thats unplugged, anyways I really enjoyed your 1960 catalina series and wondered if you still have it anyways keep up the good work
I sold the Catalina maybe five years ago. The new owner uses and enjoys it very much, often emailing me photos with blue ribbons and first place trophies he won with it.
I enjoy your yapping videos. It's nice to hear the stories behind your vehicles. I'm sure you would have loved to have been able to sit down with your friends grandfather and learn all the stories of this car's history from the time it was new. It would have been nice to really know the whole history of the car including all the stories.
His grandfather had passed away before I got the car. His dad did tell me all about the car, including the accident it was in, when it was still a new car.
@@OldCarAlley I know he had passed, my point was that although the family might have generally known about it's history the grandfather would have known all the nitty gritty details that became lost when he passed. You are lucky to have bought it from the original family and know it's history from brand new. I've never known that on any car I've owned as I've bought them all used from dealers.
@@tallboyyyy That would have been nice..... but from the sounds of it, he was not much of a car guy. He bought it new, then stopped driving it when he got sick in the late 60's, then passed a year before I bought it. I use to occasionally see the family I got the car from around, but even Jim's folks are gone now. They have seen it many times looking like it does now.
Howard, i feel the same way about car shows, there was a local show in my town that i felt the same way about, the people where putting the money in there pocket
Nope don't own own a car that long Now we live in Pennsylvania Pennsylvania territories cars of But we gotta trade it in by a new one every couple years Joy hearing you talk about years ago I had another UA-cam or it used to do that but nobody wanted to He stop talking about the years ago Hope you don't stop it's nice to hear what you did years ago just to forget about everything it's going on today Thank you for the video
My father gave me my first car when I was 12. Neighbor kids were jealous other kids in my elementary school found out too. ‘67 Datsun Bluebird. I would take grease or oil from under hood and rub on my arms and face so a horse girl neighbor would think I was a mechanic. I was wrestling with her one hot afternoon. Her horses thought I was hurting her so they both trampled me pretty hard I got bruised up. She laughed. I grew up to be a mechanic.
Throughly enjoyed watching you reminisce about your 45 year ownership of your Belair. If I remember correctly it was a Sunday that you got your car and it's Sunday today. March 10th was my 8th year anniversary for my ownership of my Belair. I don't think there are many people that can say they still own their 1st car. I always thought that was an amazing thing. When I talk about you and your car I always mention that it is your 1st car and everyone is amazed by that. Anyways, thanks again for celebrating this special anniversary with us. By the way, did you happen to seeing my spread in the current Hagerty magazine? Take care my friend.
Yes I did see the spread. Great photos and story. My Bel Air has been in a few car magazines and news papers over the past 40+ years or so. I still have copy's of them.... I should dig them out. I have no clue where they're packed away anymore. After the last two moves, I still have not opened all the boxes.... and there's lots of them to go threw. Thats also awesome we purchased our 59 Bel Air's two days apart, even though different years. Yes it was a Sunday in 1978, just like today..... thats one of the reasons I posted the video this morning at 10am. It was 10am when I met up with the sellers to purchase the Bel Air. Back then, in Michigan, car titles had to be notarized during the sale. A neighbor across the street was a notary, so she notarized the title for me on that Sunday morning. I also remember the weather that day well..... it was sunny but a cool, in the low 40º's with a bit of a breeze.
@@OldCarAlleyif you could find those magazines that would be great. You can share the excitement you felt seeing your Belair in print. I'm feeling pretty good seeing my car in the Hagerty magazine.
@@Martin48964 Yea thats super cool. I'm thinking I need to hunt them up sometime soon. It's just that I'd need to go threw dozens and dozens of boxes. They're in the mountains crap from cleaning out my folks house, so they could be in boxes at my brothers maybe even. When I find them, you can be sure I will video them.
Love your 59 I have one it's a Belair 2 door 283 3 spd not as nice as yours but I c you have an automatic shift leaver on a manual trans I c this alot do u know why
Most cars of that era were manual shift..... Automatic transmissions didn't really become decent and reliable until the mid 50's. Pre WW2 cars had floor shifters that got in the way of passengers. They found putting the shifter on the steering column (often referred to as a "three on the tree") saved space and made passengers more comfortable. Well into the late 50's and early 60's the "three on the tree" was very common, as a lot of people liked the old reliable manual trans. It's a regular "H" shifting pattern on the column.
The aerial is down..... it goes all the way down into the fender when its down. I put it down when I wax the car. I just forgot to put it back up. When I go to drive the car and wonder why the radio has no reception, that will remind me to put the aerial back up.
The standard drivetrain in the 59 Chevrolet's was a 235.5 inline six, three on the tree with a 3:55 axle ratio. All other engines and transmission's were optional. Ram Jet Fuel Injection on the 283 was offered until mid 59 as an option also, along with "Level Air" air suspension. In 1960 the 283 Powerglige with a 3:36 axle ratio was standard, with the 235.5 six, three on the tree being an option at lower cost. Level Air and Ram Jet were no longer offered in 1960, other than the Corvette was still offered with Ram Jet Fuel Injection on the 283.
I worked as a mechanic in Ford dealers for many years, drove a semi for a few years because I hated the rat race of the car dealers. The trucking company went under after six year being there, so I worked in robotics a year or so, but hated the 72 hour work weeks. I ended up working most of my years as a Marine Mechanic, even owning my own business repairing boat machinery. I thoroughly enjoyed working as a Marine Mechanic. Nothing like working on a yacht at the dock of a nice marina on a beautiful summer day. I always had January and February free, as not much was happening on the Great Lakes when they were froze over, so I worked on old car projects in the winter.
iam with you on car shows, ive shown many in shows but the last time was in florida, i had a 96 corvette, nice car mins you but not the best well the host club putting it on wanted new members, members meant dues etc for the club. well the first show i went to with this club cause i was thinking about joining, i took first place trophy and then won the the pot of money in the raffel , well i was so excited, i did join the club, why not the money i won payed my dues for 1 year, after words i went to many shows with the club after that but didnt have near the success in winning, oh 3rd maybe second place but not like the first show where i won ut all, one evening after a show i sat and thought about that first show and how i won it all, money to and since ti was always the same guys winning, especially the club president, then it hit me, the club president set that up with the car show outfit that judged the cars and presented the trophys.my car was nice but not first place, then i won the money in the pot same day. didnt take long for this old boy to figure out that i was being sucked into ths club, well that was it for me and since then its cruise ins at the steak and shake. by the way love hearing about your adventures , just a regular guy having fun with your old chevy or any car.
@@OldCarAlley I get it, and iam glad to see all 4 doors coming back in the collectable market, keeping your first car is a very rare thing, most guys would love to have kepted theirs, including, me and my 2nd car a 59 impala convertible black/red interior. 348/250 4bbl, 3 on tree. I'll send you a pick sometime. Only wish I still had the v.i n. I might be able to find it
I purchased the truck new when I lived in Savannah, Ga. I have never driven it in the Michigan winters. I only drive it when I am hauling or towing something now days..... thats not very often, as I have only put 900 miles on it over the past year.
My first in1977 was a 1967 cougar, I was 21, still got the car, now I'm 67, 46 years with my cougar! I drive it a few times a month now, total restoration here in north California, thanks!
That awesome. I love seeing first car's and long term owners of vintage cars.
I had a 67 Cougar also. Boy what a pretty car. I wish there were more restored and valued like it's sister car the Mustang. It was a prettier , more luxurious car and had such beautiful lines and what about the grill, pop up head lights and those turn signals ?
I still own my first car. I have had it since 1995. Love it, it's like a old friend every time I drive it
My first car was a '59 Chevy Biscayne 4-door body in red/white. All gray interior, with Inline-6 and 3-on-the-tree. It had holes in the trunk floor, but otherwise looked fairly good top side. I recall it didn't require a key to start the engine. The ignition switch functioned without key if it wasn't locked out. That was about 55 years ago now. I didn't keep it long, replaced it with a used '66 Buick Skylark hardtop V8 that I still have. I admire the work you did to restore your Bel Air and keep it nice.
Yeah, my Bel Air docent need a key unless the switch is turned to "lock" also. Nice your first car was a 59 Chevy..... Nice you still have your 66 Buick.
I've had my first car for 11 years as of yesterday. Bought it a week before I got my permit. All of the people my age I know have been through more cars than girlfriends at this point. Funny you mention blocking the EGR line off, my dad said they used to do that with a steel ball bearing in the end of the line until people caught on to it and made it illegal. I also used to trash pick and even ran a craigslist ad for outdoor power equipment repair, then worked in a hydraulic repair shop for 4 years while working at UPS all at the same time for a while. I paid for my truck mowing lawns and repairing lawnmowers and started doing dump runs for certain people with it for quite a while. People like us aren't very common anymore. I didn't grow up with wealthy parents so anything I wanted past age 13 or so I earned the money and bought it myself. I still have my 16 drawer Craftsman toolbox I saved money up mowing lawns with, had that for 15 years as of last month.
Thats awesome..... you sound a lot like myself. I still garbage pick power equipment to fix and sell.... sometimes even buying power equipment in estate sales to fix and sell. I didn't grow up with wealthy folks either. When I told my folks that I wanted a car, dad stated I can have one, but I need to pay for it and all its costs myself. He said I can have anything I want, as long as I pay for it! I ended up with a 59 Chevy. Mom was not very happy, but dad liked the car and helped me with fixing it up.... as long as I had the money to pay for the parts. Dad was great at solutions to fixing things, and often helped me with all my project cars over the years. We worked very well together.
I used to do that too. EGR really hurts part-throttle performance and hurts gas mileage too.
My current cars, a 73 GMC 3/4 ton and a 54 New Yorker wagon, don't have EGR and don't need smog checks.
I'm the youngest of 5 kids and only one not born in Warren, Mich. I really enjoyed your rambling. I felt like a neighbor, stopping to barrow a tool on a Saturday afternoon and asked about your Chevy. Ramble all you want. I envy you. My first car was a nicely restored '67 Cougar. It was beautiful and I always said I'd never sell it and keep it to give to my son or daughter some day. Well life isn't so predictable and I sold it in my late twenties. I kick myself every time I see a car restored and kept like yours. God I wish I still had that car. So many memories in that car and back seat. Some good , some bad. Like I said , I envy you. Ty, for your story ! P.s. the Catalina looked beautiful. Great lines.
What a coincidence. The next comment also had a '67 Cougar. Lol. Don't see them anymore at all. Just Mustangs. Cougar was prettier, though...IMO.
Hi Howard,
I think it is awesome that you still own, maintain & drive your first car, I have met a guy who also still owns his first car, however, it is full of stuff that he stores in the car in his garage, the car has not moved or started for over thirty years. He said he will never sell it because it`s his first car. I would always keep my vehicles running and driving, that is the only way to enjoy the car and keep making memories. Vehicles need to be driven , I have seen vehicles that have been parked outside for decades in backyards with the wheels sunk half into the dirt, & floor pans making contact with the moist dirt . most of the time these cars are scrap, mother nature will take back what was hers. I enjoyed this video Howard. Your 59 Chevrolet is a beauty, it stays this way from the loving care that you give it.
Yep, I'v see people park cars in the yard until they're sunk into the ground.... Leaving a un-used car outside really ruins them quick. My Bel Air has been driven every year since I purchased it, and garaged since 1981.
Howard, it's cold outside , what an interesting video as I sit here eating some homemade vegetable soup. Thank you for sharing all your memories of your 59. I greatly enjoyed it !!
Homemade soup sounds yummy. Glad you enjoyed my video.
As a teen back in the 60's, I used to cruise car dealer lots on my bike and I remember seeing many cars that had the odometers turned back. I'd see a car out back, then a week or so later, it would be cleaned up and parked out front in the used car lot. I particularly remember a '63 Ford Country Squire that had 93K on it when it was out back, but showed 43K a week later when it was out front. The Chevy dealer as a matter of routine, turned all their used car odometers to zero.
Ramble on brother! Good stories 👍
Great story. Very nice car. Obviously a labor of love.
Glad you enjoyed my video.
This is the first time that I saw your channel. After seeing your video we sound like clones! I graduated in1978. I was in auto shop 2 hours a day as a junior and then 3 hours a day as a senior because I was a teachers assistant. I was in the Washington state Plymouth troubleshooting contest in 1978. But our school came in second place so didn't get the scholarship.
Glad that you kept your car. My first car was a 1956 Chevy 2 door 150 business coupe. Wish I would have kept mine.
Thanks for the trip down memory lane.
Glad you enjoyed the video.
I remember the 66 galaxy project. I'm a ford guy so I followed that project. Good to see you again.
I'm more of a Ford guy also, but have always had a special spot in my heart for 59 Chevy's. I just love the wild styling. All my everyday cars from the past 42 years have been Ford's.
Its cool i found your video,my first car was a 1960 Be lair.I bought it in 74 it had a 235 6 cylinder and power glide transmission ,paid 200 bucks.Sad to say sold it in 85 for 500 bucks. I rebuilt everything in it,put a 348 with try power and new power glide then someone hit the driver door in 84 and i moved to Oregon from So Cal in 85 . My one regret in life! But i still dream about that car!
I had a 60 Bel Air for seven years, as a summer ride back in the 80's. It had the 283 with a Turboglide, power steering and power brakes.
Hello Howard. Thank You for giving us the history of you with your ownership of the car. The only thing I can say after watching the video is
ONE GREAT MAN WITH ONE GREAT CAR. I have owned my 1972 Chevy Cheyenne since 1981. Great truck but I have to save all my money
to be able to put gas in it. (lol) Hope to meet you one day. Take Care. Clint.
The 69 Chevy Custom 10 I had only got 9mpg. It had a 260hp 350.
Congratulations Howard on 45th anniversary with that beautiful car. All the best!
Thank you
Very beautiful 59 Impala brother
I enjoyed hearing your story. That's a nicely optioned car with the black paint and a 348! I have a 1960 Bel Air that I just picked up about a year ago. I'm trying to get in contact with previous owners to hopefully find out more about it. And I do actually still have my first car, a 1987 Crown Vic 2-door that I bought in 2008 when I was 16.
Your first car has a special place in your heart like first girl you fell for. Can't describe it, but stays with you forever. Great stuff.
I have a 65 Mercury as my first car I bought in 71 and still driving it.
Thats awesome. Does it have the roll down back glass..... I think called the Breezeway?
Yes it does.
Howard, The longest I have owned any vehicle is 19 years. starting at age 16 my first car was a 1960 Plymouth Furry , it was a 2 door , V-8 (318 Polly eng.) Auto Trans- push button. Wish I still had it today.
A 60 Plymouth.... wow there super cool cars. They bring in big bucks in today's market.
Thank you for the stories, Howard. The car has been your story for such a long time. I always enjoy hearing them.
As time goes on, I am sure I will tell more stories on the 59 Bel Air..... like when I am out cruising in it maybe.
Hi Howard, hope you are feeling fine. You look healthy and I hope you stay that way. This is a great video going down memory lane. I admire your stance on car shows and the Charity scams. The Belair looks great. Keep the videos coming.
Thank you, I am feeling really good. I do see the doctor later in the month for my every 3 months check up..... Hoping all is well.
SWEET RIDE...
I like the rambling story line.
Very interesting...
All great memories and I might have seen you up north at the St Ignes car show. YES I DO remember the stupid one that crashed in to the crowd that year.
I went a few more time but I have stopped going in resent years.
Maybe this year I'll take a drive for the day type thing.
I sold my 1947 Chev aero back.
I'm looking into a 1956 Cadillac coupe deville but that will have to go through a completely once over to make sure I can do the traveling time safety wise.
Have a great one..
See you in your next video..
I still have my first. One you don’t particularly care for. A 56 BelAir sport coupe. I’ve had since September 1968. Silver and white.
Thats awesome you still have your first car. Being a first car, that scores big points in my book. It's not that I don't like them, I just see them everywhere..... but see the 56's the least. It's the 57 that has flooded the market.
Great video Howard what a beauty!
I still have my first car, bought it when I was 16 in 1972
I still drive it around occasionally on a nice day
Its a 1966 Corvair Corsa
Thats super cool, owning a car 51 years and still driving it.
Yes Howard, you sure can talk! Thank God for that you pick a half decent topic. I thoroughly enjoyed your ramblings on your life with the Chevrolet and all of the other side detours that you took us on. There is a lot for younger folk to learn from a guy like you. You seem to have the patience of Job on some of your projects which is good to share to the impatient, must have or happen now, younger generations that have followed us. Thanks again for allowing us to walk around in your shoes. Much appreciated!
Congratulations on your 45th year and many more to come 👍❤️🎉! Loved the video, always glad to hear from you.
Glad you enjoyed the video.
Howard, thank you for sharing your memories. Giving the Bel Air a coat of polish on your anniversary is a great way to commemorate a great car story!
It needed waxing big time...... I thought the same, figuring the Bel Air would enjoy a good coat of wax.
Great Car! Great Story!
i thought i was paticular with my cars 4 decades old paint job is crazy your car is just beautiful if i ever get to mich id like to look you up when i had my 59 conv 348 had a guy with a 60 belair 283 with a few mods he thought he could mop up the 348 i dont like to drag race but could not resist the challege well my 348 all stock walked away from him just another fun memory
Yeah, thee 348 has a lot more get up and go than the 283, even so called built ones. The 283 has small valves, so if you want performance from it, newer heads with larger valves is kinda necessary.
Howard, I've thanked you in the past but I need to say thanks again. Love hearing the history of you and your car. In 1980 living in Richmond Michigan. I bought my first and second car from L&H auto wrecking on 26 mile road. My brother in laws family owed the business and they were very helpful with car parts for me. My third car is my 67 Tempest I bought in February 1984 while in the military stationed in Arizona. Of course I still have it and it's coming alone nicely as my son and I rework it. Thanks again and look forward to more videos.
Richmond was where I had to go to the Secretary of State to transfer the title for the Bel Air. I use to do business at that salvage often....
Still own my 3rd car bought in 1981,1968 SS396 Chevelle.Owned .3 late greats 1960 Impala convert 348 Turboglide, 1959 2 Dr hardtop and1962 Belair 4 dr.
Turboglide is not a good transmission.
@@nicksnarski5973 I had a 60 Bel Air with a 283 Turboglide. Out of the hole it was slow, but once it was rolling it was ok. The car did get great gas milage..... but I was not a huge fan of the Turboglide.
Great video. Amazing story on 45 years of your Bel Air ownership. Liked the picture of the Bel Air with the moon hubcaps and beauty rings although understand your preference for originality. Always liked the Vega and laughed when you said they rusted on the showroom floor. The 348 is an awesome motor and the top option for “59. The $7.00 per gallon gas was terrible and limited my driving as well. Agree with you about the rip off auto shows. I go to only one in Delavan, WI sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce with a $15.00 entry fee. Enjoy your rambling which is a great story.
My uncle Jorge had an identical Catalina! He loved that car!
I still have my first car the 1959 Edsel I've owned it for 9 years now and I plan on many more
Yep, you took me for a ride in it...... I love Edsel's.... keep it forever.
What a beautiful ‘59 Chevy. I remember seeing those everywhere when I was young. My next door neighbors had a ‘60 with triple taillights, also white. My uncle had i believe a ‘59 also, 3 on the tree, no radio, no power assist. He called it his “sports car.” I miss the cars of the late 50s and 60s. So roomy and sensibly proportioned. Still handsome in 2023.
Btw, I’m way behind you, but I have a Nissan Altima 2004, on its way to 20 years old, which I purchased new. Uses no oil, original except AC compressor, and alternator. Had some belts and hoses changed recently. I think it could last longer. I know it’s not a Chevy, or a classic. Should I keep it longer?
If it docent give you any trouble, why not keep it.....
Great car story and a super nice ride! Looking forward to your next car or truck project.
So cool! I drove my '00 Chevy Cavalier since new and had it all the way until '21 when the trans went out and didn't have the $ to get it fixed, otherwise I'd still be driving it.
Very nice example.
Very nice story and car, keep it going for the next generation to enjoy, glad you kept it looking original and didn't hot rod it out
My first ride was a 59 chevy apache short bed truck that I paid 100.00 bucks for when I was a freshman in high school. Long story short I ended up getting rid of it as I just got married to a woman that was born in 59, always said I traded my truck for a woman, over the yrs things happen and we went our separate ways, man I sure miss my ol truck
Yep.... life happens, and cars get traded or sold off. I just seemed to hang onto the Bel Air, first off because I loved the styling of the 59 Chevy, second off, I purchased a Vega and kinda needed a second car due to that. You will NEVER see that styling repeated of the 59 GM cars. The panels were difficult and expensive for the manufactures to make.
I Shure like that car, i have always liked 59 Gm cars, and i like the 4 door Flat roofs the best
My friend Dave had all the 59 GM flat top cars. I think he has sold them all except for one 59 Cadillac.... he had two 59 Caddy's, but the one, his summer beater dropped a valve, so he sold it. It was 100% original, so the whole drivetrain really needed a good going threw. Seeing he has a second one that is like brand new, is why he decided to sell the every day one. I have videos of all his flat top 59 GM cars in past videos, even riding in some of them.
I live just 2.5 miles from the western end of Hwy 2 in Everett Wa. I’ve rode from one end to the other of Hwy 2 and as you said it is a great Hwy. Very scenic. Love your content. I still own my first ride as well, a 1964 F100, it was a rusted out Minnesota truck my father gave me on my 14th birthday in 1978. Believe it or not the same day I got my drivers license.
My cousin actually lives in Everett, not Seattle......
Small world
Man, that 59 is really popping after the polishing!
It needed a good coat of wax.
my first too, $175 !
Enjoy hearing you reminisce about your 1958 Bel Air. I was able to keep my first car, a 1965 Dodge Coronet 500 Convertible from October of 1974 through March of 2012 when a financial emergency necessitated its sale. I have owned my 1985 Oldsmobile 1985 Oldsmobile Delta 88 Royale Brougham Luxury Sedan since April 21, 1985, and plan to keep it as long as I am able to drive. It currently has 108,000 miles.
A 65 Cornet convertible..... nice! I almost bought an 85 Olds 98 Regency Brougham a couple years ago, because it was super clean. It had a bad engine though..... it froze and cracked the block. He was asking $3000..... I offered him $2000 due to its needing an engine. It had the 3800 V6 in it. It ran and drove, as he had epoxied the cracks up, but they still leaked.
You really made my Sunday. I watched it in two parts Howard I wonder if you’re the longest Belair owner I don’t think anybody’s had a Belair as long as you have.
LOL.... could be.
I have 2007 Civic Hybrid that I purchased new. Payed cash. 122,000 miles. I have never kept a car this long. I told my today that I plan to keep this car even if I buy a new one. 1 set front brake pads. 2 belts. Air filters,oil filters, wiper blades, and cruise control switch. Oh tires. It’s never had a light bulb. The headliner is starting to come done. I really like it. I get 43 mpg average. I only have to go to gas station once every 3 months.
Other than the switch, all the stuff you replaced is normal maintenance stuff, so that docent count, as any car would need that. Sounds like my 08 F150.... I got it new and really have never had to do anything to it. One axle seal and Ford had to replace the plastic intake manifold due to a crack. That was covered under warrantee.
You know, I worked at FedEx as mechanic and I have replaced hundreds of those intakes. We had over 1500 vehicles in Memphis, mostly Ford. Only 23 of us and the vehicles were on 120 intervals.
@@ricktotty2283 I have been under the impression that plastic intake was an issue with that 4.6L engine, as the truck was out of warranty when they replaced it, but Ford still covered it.
I was in fleet operations at FedEx. We were able to file warranty just like I did when I was at Ford. Many of our police cars had these plastic intakes also Unlike at Ford when we couldn’t have a rejection at the Fed we were expected to have a 50% rejection rate. When you a tech at Fed you are not just a mechanic. You the warranty, parts clerk, and tire specialist and so on. I was with Ford 15 years and Fed 21 years until I retired. I was aloud file warranty on any product we had. We had many vehicles with over 400,000 miles. Many of these vehicles had more than one intake.
@@ricktotty2283 If that intake ever cracks again, there are some good aftermarket manifolds I hear last longer than the factory ones. I don't drive the truck much anymore. I have put 3000 miles on it in the past two years. Most of those miles were from going up north to the cottage..... thats 380 miles one way.
Just discovered your site while searching for information about my 64 catalina, I've got windshield fog so I'm not a mechanic but I'm not stupid either plus we got Google now, right, so I guess it's got a coolant leak somewhere, long story short I found a hose ?I think it's a vacuum right in front of distributer cap thats unplugged, anyways I really enjoyed your 1960 catalina series and wondered if you still have it anyways keep up the good work
I sold the Catalina maybe five years ago. The new owner uses and enjoys it very much, often emailing me photos with blue ribbons and first place trophies he won with it.
I enjoy your yapping videos. It's nice to hear the stories behind your vehicles. I'm sure you would have loved to have been able to sit down with your friends grandfather and learn all the stories of this car's history from the time it was new. It would have been nice to really know the whole history of the car including all the stories.
His grandfather had passed away before I got the car. His dad did tell me all about the car, including the accident it was in, when it was still a new car.
@@OldCarAlley I know he had passed, my point was that although the family might have generally known about it's history the grandfather would have known all the nitty gritty details that became lost when he passed. You are lucky to have bought it from the original family and know it's history from brand new. I've never known that on any car I've owned as I've bought them all used from dealers.
@@tallboyyyy That would have been nice..... but from the sounds of it, he was not much of a car guy. He bought it new, then stopped driving it when he got sick in the late 60's, then passed a year before I bought it. I use to occasionally see the family I got the car from around, but even Jim's folks are gone now. They have seen it many times looking like it does now.
Wow! If that's the original hood, you have a 348!
Yes it has a 250 horse 348. It's a replacement hood from when the car was new, due to it being in an accident when it was still a new car.
Howard, i feel the same way about car shows, there was a local show in my town that i felt the same way about, the people where putting the money in there pocket
Yes.... I refuse to let others pocket cash from my car!
Don't have my first car but, am rebuilding my dads old f-100 which I found at a salvage yard.
Thats awesome. What year F100?
@@OldCarAlley '64 long bed, installed crown vic front, explorer rear, notched rear. Will be turquoise and white. As it was.
Nope don't own own a car that long Now we live in Pennsylvania Pennsylvania territories cars of But we gotta trade it in by a new one every couple years Joy hearing you talk about years ago I had another UA-cam or it used to do that but nobody wanted to He stop talking about the years ago Hope you don't stop it's nice to hear what you did years ago just to forget about everything it's going on today Thank you for the video
Glad you enjoyed my video..... thank you for watching it.
My father gave me my first car when I was 12. Neighbor kids were jealous other kids in my elementary school found out too. ‘67 Datsun Bluebird.
I would take grease or oil from under hood and rub on my arms and face so a horse girl neighbor would think I was a mechanic. I was wrestling with her one hot afternoon. Her horses thought I was hurting her so they both trampled me pretty hard I got bruised up. She laughed.
I grew up to be a mechanic.
Thats a car you don't see often..... a friend had one.
Throughly enjoyed watching you reminisce about your 45 year ownership of your Belair. If I remember correctly it was a Sunday that you got your car and it's Sunday today. March 10th was my 8th year anniversary for my ownership of my Belair. I don't think there are many people that can say they still own their 1st car. I always thought that was an amazing thing. When I talk about you and your car I always mention that it is your 1st car and everyone is amazed by that. Anyways, thanks again for celebrating this special anniversary with us. By the way, did you happen to seeing my spread in the current Hagerty magazine? Take care my friend.
Yes I did see the spread. Great photos and story. My Bel Air has been in a few car magazines and news papers over the past 40+ years or so. I still have copy's of them.... I should dig them out. I have no clue where they're packed away anymore. After the last two moves, I still have not opened all the boxes.... and there's lots of them to go threw.
Thats also awesome we purchased our 59 Bel Air's two days apart, even though different years. Yes it was a Sunday in 1978, just like today..... thats one of the reasons I posted the video this morning at 10am. It was 10am when I met up with the sellers to purchase the Bel Air. Back then, in Michigan, car titles had to be notarized during the sale. A neighbor across the street was a notary, so she notarized the title for me on that Sunday morning. I also remember the weather that day well..... it was sunny but a cool, in the low 40º's with a bit of a breeze.
@@OldCarAlleyif you could find those magazines that would be great. You can share the excitement you felt seeing your Belair in print. I'm feeling pretty good seeing my car in the Hagerty magazine.
@@Martin48964 Yea thats super cool. I'm thinking I need to hunt them up sometime soon. It's just that I'd need to go threw dozens and dozens of boxes. They're in the mountains crap from cleaning out my folks house, so they could be in boxes at my brothers maybe even. When I find them, you can be sure I will video them.
Libby Owen's Ford is LOF glass.
I know Ford did make most all the glass for all the auto manufactures.... but had no idea what the LOF in the box meant.
Love your 59 I have one it's a Belair 2 door 283 3 spd not as nice as yours but I c you have an automatic shift leaver on a manual trans I c this alot do u know why
Most cars of that era were manual shift..... Automatic transmissions didn't really become decent and reliable until the mid 50's. Pre WW2 cars had floor shifters that got in the way of passengers. They found putting the shifter on the steering column (often referred to as a "three on the tree") saved space and made passengers more comfortable. Well into the late 50's and early 60's the "three on the tree" was very common, as a lot of people liked the old reliable manual trans. It's a regular "H" shifting pattern on the column.
Just ordered new tires working on car getting ready for summer realized they where 15 years old doesn't seem I bought them that long ago
lol.... I know it's crazy. I found the receipt with the new hoses yesterday, after I uploaded the video. I purchased them in 1994....
Saludos amigo Howard 😀
Saludos
I saw the EZ Eye printing on the glass. If I recall, my first car, 1978 Buick Century, had the same glass.
What happened to your radio aerial?
The aerial is down..... it goes all the way down into the fender when its down. I put it down when I wax the car. I just forgot to put it back up. When I go to drive the car and wonder why the radio has no reception, that will remind me to put the aerial back up.
I have a 20 year old car. Don't have my first car a 63 Impalla SS.
Nice.... a good friend had a 63 Impala SS....
was your car a special order with the 348 ? i bet most Bel airs came with 283s or a 6
The standard drivetrain in the 59 Chevrolet's was a 235.5 inline six, three on the tree with a 3:55 axle ratio. All other engines and transmission's were optional. Ram Jet Fuel Injection on the 283 was offered until mid 59 as an option also, along with "Level Air" air suspension. In 1960 the 283 Powerglige with a 3:36 axle ratio was standard, with the 235.5 six, three on the tree being an option at lower cost. Level Air and Ram Jet were no longer offered in 1960, other than the Corvette was still offered with Ram Jet Fuel Injection on the 283.
Thanks for the nice video. Was wondering what kind of work did you do or maybe still do during your adult life? Thanks Rob The Netherlands Europe.
I worked as a mechanic in Ford dealers for many years, drove a semi for a few years because I hated the rat race of the car dealers. The trucking company went under after six year being there, so I worked in robotics a year or so, but hated the 72 hour work weeks. I ended up working most of my years as a Marine Mechanic, even owning my own business repairing boat machinery. I thoroughly enjoyed working as a Marine Mechanic. Nothing like working on a yacht at the dock of a nice marina on a beautiful summer day. I always had January and February free, as not much was happening on the Great Lakes when they were froze over, so I worked on old car projects in the winter.
@@OldCarAlley thank you for your reply. Sounds like your technical skills are more than enough for the old car hobby. What is a semi? A truck?
@@robrobster9148 Yeah a semi is a big truck.
@@OldCarAlley Thanks!
iam with you on car shows, ive shown many in shows but the last time was in florida, i had a 96 corvette, nice car mins you but not the best well the host club putting it on wanted new members, members meant dues etc for the club. well the first show i went to with this club cause i was thinking about joining, i took first place trophy and then won the the pot of money in the raffel , well i was so excited, i did join the club, why not the money i won payed my dues for 1 year, after words i went to many shows with the club after that but didnt have near the success in winning, oh 3rd maybe second place but not like the first show where i won ut all, one evening after a show i sat and thought about that first show and how i won it all, money to and since ti was always the same guys winning, especially the club president, then it hit me, the club president set that up with the car show outfit that judged the cars and presented the trophys.my car was nice but not first place, then i won the money in the pot same day. didnt take long for this old boy to figure out that i was being sucked into ths club, well that was it for me and since then its cruise ins at the steak and shake. by the way love hearing about your adventures , just a regular guy having fun with your old chevy or any car.
Yeah, all I do is cruise in's now.
@@OldCarAlley I get it, and iam glad to see all 4 doors coming back in the collectable market, keeping your first car is a very rare thing, most guys would love to have kepted theirs, including, me and my 2nd car a 59 impala convertible black/red interior. 348/250 4bbl, 3 on tree. I'll send you a pick sometime. Only wish I still had the v.i n. I might be able to find it
Nice car but I am a truck guy like the truck you have
I purchased the truck new when I lived in Savannah, Ga. I have never driven it in the Michigan winters. I only drive it when I am hauling or towing something now days..... thats not very often, as I have only put 900 miles on it over the past year.
I sold my first car
>. Is 😊