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Joined: Jul 2014
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Shade Tree Mechanic
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Shade Tree Mechanic
Joined: Jul 2014
Posts: 31 |
I am ready for my first long distance drive in the 40 special delux. What would be a reasonable max. speed for my 40 without pushing it too hard?
Thank You
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Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 30,701 Likes: 141
ChatMaster - 25,000
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ChatMaster - 25,000
Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 30,701 Likes: 141 |
All depends on the condition of the engine (loose rod bearings, sludged up oil intake screen, etc.)
I would suggest starting at 50 MPH for the first hundred miles and if every thing seems OK 55 MPH.
With the engine in known good condition many drive them from 60 to 65 MPH.
Last edited by Chev Nut; 08/26/14 07:07 PM.
Gene Schneider
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Joined: Apr 2008
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ChatMaster - 1,000
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ChatMaster - 1,000
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I've found with my '40 Special Deluxe that if I give it 10 - 15 miles to warm up it goes much better. I've been told it takes the cast iron pistons a while to get heated up and expanded compared to modern aluminum pistons.
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Joined: Oct 2007
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ChatMaster - 2,000
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ChatMaster - 2,000
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Hi ggvette,
How many miles have you put on your car driving short distances at slower speeds? What has been the feel of the car when you have driven it so far? Have you noticed any vibration in the drive train or front suspension? What is the condition of your tires? How well does the brake system perform? Have you done a complete inspection of each brake component including the emergency brake system? Have you noticed any engine performance issues (overheating, excessive oil usage, sluggishness, engine knock, condition of the plugs)? How long have you had your car? What is its maintenance history (previous owners repairs)? Do you have seat belts in the car? Why do you think your car is ready for high speed driving? How many miles have been put on the car in the previous year? Will you be taking anyone with you on your test run? Spouses tend to be not good first time passengers. They have memories like elephants and form opinions that are indelible. Did you ever hear the story of the guy who took his wife on his cars maiden drive after a complete restoration, and the hood came unlatched on an expressway? The hood ended up hitting the front windshield. I sold him new hood hinges, his wife may choose to never want to ride with him in the car again? What arrangements have you made for towing? How much liability insurance do you carry?
Don't be in a hurry to get to know your car well. A lot of bad things can happen if you think it is okay to take a long trip at speeds over 40 miles an hour. These are not modern cars with a list of safety features a mile long.
Good luck, Mike
P.S. I guess I am trying to say better to be safe than sorry!!! By the way, why did you decide to replace your radiator?
Mike 41 Chevy
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Joined: Sep 2012
Posts: 300
Backyard Mechanic
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Backyard Mechanic
Joined: Sep 2012
Posts: 300 |
David Martin-Hendersonville NC, Pine Island Fl....... 1940 Chevy SDSS,
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Joined: Sep 2009
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ChatMaster - 6,000
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ChatMaster - 6,000
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Merely maintain minimum interstate speed. Either 45 or 50 should do it. That's fast enough. If on a two lane and you're creating a parking lot, pull over once in a while and let the faster cars go by. Use four or more lane highways when practical and stay in the right hand lane except when you are in a  country, past or present   . In the latter use the left lane. Reduce speed. In  try to find a paved road. If you are lucky and find one, use it. Be careful, though, if you maintain the 45/50 MPH you will be passing a lot of cars. Be alert for moose. They can puncture your radiator and are too big road kill to toss on the front fender.  You're welcome, Charlie 
Last edited by 41specialdeluxe; 08/27/14 11:31 AM.
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