1953 Commander project

[Richard Archi]

Greetings. I'm new to the forum. We have a 53 Commander project in the shop in Maryland which is starting to pick up "speed". It will be one of those "modified" studes. Basically a Corvette C4 front suspension (done) and an adjustable 3 link rear (done) withQA1 single adjustable coil overs, with adjustable mounts coming soon. Ford 9 inch rear, braced, with Moser axles, Strange center section, with a 3.42, if memory serves me correctly, and locker. 1 1/8 inch splined anti-rollbar and chrome moly track locator. One of the pics shows a min-monte carlo bar in trunk area. A monte carlo bar will be added in the front, also. Engine is a 5.3 LS type (basically installed) and a GM automatic, using the original interior. 18 inch wheels up front, 19 in the rear, Michelin Pilot Sports. Wilwood disk brakes all around. Should handle very well. A few pictures if I can figure out how that's done. Limited pictures, but more soon to be available. We may add a turbo. Thanks.

[Monte101]

Welcome to the family.

Great looking project for sure. We all love to see the projects as they come together. You will find a lot of people hear that can offer assistance on just about anything that might come up during your build. Another thing to think about is joining the SDC you can find alot of info there as well.

Please post more pictures it is always a pleasure to see the progress...

[Silverplate]

Welcome Richard. Awesome project, keep us updated on the progress…Mike

[studegary]

I would be concerned with that much blockage of the lower air intake. You can completely close the upper (parking light) openings and still have enough cooling. Most all of the cooling air is through the lower opening.

[Richard Archi]

Thanks. You are correct. However, the modernization of this car includes an aluminum block engine, five core aluminum radiator and some "air management" adjustments, which we hope will manage cooling issues. But , yes, the original configuration of these "bottom breathers" is an issue when doing modifications.

[Captain Billy]

Good choice.....keep us posted

[J_Cole]

Where are you at in Maryland? I live in Rockville and am a little partial to commanders, I've got 2 😃 would love to see your car!! Welcome to the forum and keep us posted

[Richard Archi]

J. Cole: I'm in Potomac. Real close. Sure, would like to get together, compare notes. The car is in Severn. You can text me at 3029226702. Calling is an issue, because I have a spam call blocker. We get many of those. so, text first, at your convenience.

[J_Cole]

Richard Archi i tried texting you but the number keeps bouncing back as invalid. My number is 813.545.6443 so shoot me a message at your convenience! Would love to see the rides!