Want a Cadillac

[koya1893]

Good evening, I am new at the idea of getting a 1937 Lasalle four door.  Currently the car does not run, it seems fuel is not getting to the carb.  Owner poured fuel in the carb, it started as suspected it would not stay running.  I smelled the tank, fuel did not smell nothing like gasoline.  He is asking 22,500.00 for it.  I am considering buying it as it is.  I would like an idea what to offer and what I will deal with trying to get is started.
If this was a corvette (C3), it wouldn't be a problem.  It will be my first classic of this caliber.  Thank you.

[tturley]

I am not an expert on prices but that seems like a lot to pay for a non running Lasalle sedan unless it is in very good shape

[The Tassie Devil(le)]

Congratulations on looking at the LaSalle.

As for "If this was a corvette (C3), it wouldn't be a problem", actually, there is virtually nothing different between the two, as the same problem could be a problem with a C3.   All cars are virtually the same, except for the shape, size, quality of build, and cost.

Sounds like the fuel in the tank could be rotten, and the lines could be clogged up, all the way to the Carby, and probably inside the carby as well.

Bruce.

PS.   You have an email from me that requires your attention.

[Scot Minesinger]

There is a huge difference between a driving and non-driving car in price.  Even though the car does run, it may not run well and you do not know the condition of brakes, suspension, and etc., which could be very expensive to bring to drivable service.  I generally stay with the 60's to 70's Cadillacs, but a neglected 1970 Cadillac can easily cost 20k to bring what was a marginal running and driving car to ready to drive to Alaska from Virginia and back condition.  A 1930's LaSalle would suffer parts availability, and more than likely a restoration shop would be required to perform any mechanical work you do not.

If it was easy to get the LaSalle running and driving, then the current owner would do it if they were smart.

If you are not mechanically inclined bring a CLC member who is and is familiar with this type of car.  Only one guy I know is Harry Scott, our local chapter treasurer and he lives in northern Virginia.  I would go on very low on this offer.  Even if this car was perfect, there is not a big market for them and they can take a little while to sell when they run and drive.

[Caddyholic]

I know of a 38 4 door lasalle in very good condition. You could drive it home for a lot less than that. 

[koya1893]

There is a huge difference between a driving and non-driving car in price.  Even though the car does run, it may not run well and you do not know the condition of brakes, suspension, and etc., which could be very expensive to bring to drivable service.  I generally stay with the 60's to 70's Cadillacs, but a neglected 1970 Cadillac can easily cost 20k to bring what was a marginal running and driving car to ready to drive to Alaska from Virginia and back condition.  A 1930's LaSalle would suffer parts availability, and more than likely a restoration shop would be required to perform any mechanical work you do not.

If it was easy to get the LaSalle running and driving, then the current owner would do it if they were smart.

If you are not mechanically inclined bring a CLC member who is and is familiar with this type of car.  Only one guy I know is Harry Scott, our local chapter treasurer and he lives in northern Virginia.  I would go on very low on this offer.  Even if this car was perfect, there is not a big market for them and they can take a little while to sell when they run and drive.

Thank you.  I agree, like the corvettes the longer they seat still the bigger the restoration.  Few things I consider when looking at a low mileage corvette, it sat, barely driven and never seen rain.  All are bad news to me, hence I took the same attitude for the car.  I am going back to the seller with an offer taking in consideration what has to be done to make it drivable from seating too long.

Judging my initial assessment, I probably can take care of any mechanical issuer I face.  I checked on parts availability,  I was WOW.  Very $$$ for the parts, but not an issue I am not paying anyone to touch the car. 

I am excited, I like the look of the car.

[Barry M Wheeler #2189]

Ben, one of our vice presidents had a 1940 LaSalle for sale that if he still has it, I am certain that you can drive it home. Click on my name to get to my profile and you'll find an "envelope" to get to my e-mail. This car is done, I believe.

[Carl Fielding]

Ben , getting a sleeping beauty running is relatively easy. What condition is the REST of the car in ? You know , like paint ? Interior ? Chrome ? All there ? Well preserved Original ? Professional high point restoration ? Deteriorated ? Any rust ? Recent work ? Brakes ? Tires ? Glass ? Window felt & seals ?  Etc. Etc.Etc. Etc. Etc................................. .  What would you say if I posted on a Corvette forum : " I an interested in making an offer on a Corvette. It runs well , but has some cosmetic issues. What do you think it is worth ?" Could you give any meaningful answer whatsoever ? I sold a '37 2 door sedan (rare , desirable) fairly recently. I had a dead accurate description of the car in the ad , and 50 or 60 pics of , in , and under the car. Second guy to call me bought it. Sometimes I will not bother with responding to evaluations questions with no clues to help anyone determine anything meaningful. I am sick in bed at the moment and have nothing better to do than aid you in your first old car purchase. Wanna help me help you ? Wanna see 5 , 10 , 15 , 20 , 30 , 40 pics of the '37 I sold ? I would LOVE to help you evaluate YOUR "first love" Cadillac. And I know very well , Ben. Only a '37 REALLY IS a '37. Gimme something to go on.    - Cadillac Carl

[Carl Fielding]

Oh also , Ben. Please join us in Cadillac & LaSalle Club. Of course you know this is a very active , large club. The guys have camaraderie , and share any and all information and parts sourcing. Our award winning club monthly , "The Self Starter" alone is worth the price of a membership. You are very wise to enter the pre-war car world with a Cad/LaSalle of the period you are considering. Strong cars , large brakes , well-engineered IFS , capable of 55-65 mph highway driving. They handle well for the period. Just don't expect a Corvette ! Stay in close touch and become one of us during and after your purchase. Welcome !  - Carl