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1956 Oldsmobile Rocket 88 Custom
This page highlights some of the cars features. A thanks and acknowledgement to Northwest Motoring Guys who took some of these pictures at a recent meet.
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The 56 Grill
This is one of the main features of the car and one I reluctantly changed for a more modern look. The original had an aerodynamic looking divider in the center to make it appear as a Jet inlet. It gave the car a cluttered look. The new grill was fabricated out of aluminum stock cut on a plasma cutter to form it to the curved opening. |
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The Finished Front Look.
Much of the hood was shaved to enhance a more modern look but not distroy what the car is. None of the lines or body panels were modified. The hood "rocket" and round "Olds" globe were also removed.
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The Engine Bay
An Older GM, LS1 series power plant moves the Olds. Some modifications have boosted the power output closer to 400hp. The car easily gets 24mpg. This is not surprising as some Corvette owners have boasted up to 29 on those trips that are driven with restraint. The Ceramic headers are responsible for part of the large increase. They are a custom "Tri Y" design. |
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Another angle shows the brake booster
Since the Olds first took the road, the brakes were horrible, even though the front 11in discs were a huge leap forward in efficency. It took a bit of research to finally find out that the LS1 only generates about 14in of Vacuum. The discs really like to see 24in. An electric pump was tried but the noise was horrible. The current system uses a booster from Hydroboost. It is a unit that bleeds hydraulic fluid from the power steering rack to operate the boost. Also, Willwood 13in drilled and slotted discs were added. Stopping now is effortless.
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Willwood Brakes
Six piston calipers for the 13in/12in drilled and slotted discs bring the olds to a quick stop at any speed. |
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This is one of my favorite images
The original car had damaged pitted badges and tail light lenses. I found a fellow on the web that was offering OEM units. When I called him he set the price at 75.00 for the Lenses and badges. When they arrived, they were still wrapped in 1955 newspapers. I guess they were new!!!
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Olds Rocket 88
The paint is a Candy Green shot over a sky blue fine metal flake, by House of Colors. The off White is a PPG color. The bodywork and painting was by Richardson Custom Automotive in Hoquiam Washington. Again, a big "THANKS" to the guys and members at Northwest Motoring for the excellent photos. |
