1960s Where to buy replacement coffee can

[Cadillac George]

Hi,

Can anyone tell me where I can buy a new can?  Or should I just take it off and paint it.  Also what does the silver unit, that someone pried open do?  Can I replace it.  The car is a 1966 Coupe de Ville.  It was in a garage for 20 years, got it running but working the bugs!  Thanks for your assistance. 

[Cadillac George]

Sorry, I guess the picture was not attached in my last post. 

[V63]

I would clean and paint the bean can.  ReSeal the vacuum port, verify its vacuum storage. The saucer disc can was a vacuum operated control for HVAC.

[TJ Hopland]

IF you are just looking for a functional replacement many parts places have universal models.

https://www.summitracing.com/parts/sum-g1464b?srsltid=AfmBOopLxqgGsXMIQ7W6OVBESYHkjumxrSQ1hDV4w_VrJdrNK27K5WT1MiA

[James Landi]

Yep-- that can CAN create  subtle vacuum leaks and cause your engine to idle rough.  The can stores vacuum for various appliances when the engine is off.  I had one fail on my 65 CDV WAY back in the 70's... the bottom of the can developed a crack along the seam from the constant flexing created by variations of internal/external pressures.  If you don't already own one, purchase a vacuum gauge and read up on just how important this gauge is as a diagnostic tool.   Hope this helps,  James

[dn010]

Do you have a better picture of the "silver unit, that someone pried open" for us to see?

[TJ Hopland]

There is usually a check valve involved somewhere so there is a chance that is the problem.  The ones I have worked on (not Cad specifically) the inside of the can didn't appear to have any sort of coating on it or if it did it had deteriorated so they rust inside out.  Ford used them into the 90's so that may be a source for something similar looking. 

[The Tassie Devil(le)]

I have one from a '66 SDV that I parted out many years ago.

Postage would be a killer though.

Bruce.

[Cadillac George]

Thanks for your replies.  I will get a better picture of the pried open part this week.  Plan to remove the can, check it for leaks and paint it.