First Drive

[shavdog]

I will be accepting delivery of my 1932 Lasalle town coupe today...it has a 353 8 cylinder engine and has been claimed to be a  "driver" by the seller....my question is on my very first drive, is there anything specific before, during or after that I should be watching for....I'll check the fluid levels including adding some gas before I leave...I was planning on a five mile trip...whats the cruising speed of this car...thanks for any help...on that first trip I think I'll have my wife follow me...craig.....does this car take regular unleaded gas?

[TJ Hopland]

I would be having a close look at is tires.   Look close for cracking and other signs of age.  Next I would be looking at brakes.  If they are hydraulic look close at the lines if mechanical have a good look at the linkage. Same with steering, have someone rock the wheel back and fourth while looking at the linkage to make sure there is not excessive play anywhere.  If I had the equipment I would be jacking things up for a spin and wiggle making sure its all looking and feeling good.   Engine or transmission problems would me very minor if you planned your route well but loosing a wheel or a brake or steering failure would really ruin your day.     

[35-709]

The 1932 LaSalle brakes were mechanical, if you've never driven a car with mechanical brakes don't expect a whole lot.  Get used to the braking action you have before you venture out into traffic.  With the engine's low compression regular unleaded gas is all you need.
Geoff

[Otto Skorzeny]

I would fill the gas tank to the top if it just has a small amount in it. This will help displace any moisture that may have condensed in an empty tank. I would also add a can of Heet or similar moisture displacing fuel stabilizer.