Updated Feb. 26, 2004
This 1956 Continental Mark II is one of 1000 still in existence. It has not been driven in at least 10 years. This has become my new project. My goal was to have the car running and rolling for the Woodward Dream Cruise. The car measures 18 feet 2.5 inches long and weighs in at 5,100 lb. This was my great grandfather's (Bops) pride and joy and it is in his honor this car will once again drive the open road to be appreciated by the public. See the links below for information about Continentals:
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Mark II Report
April 5, 2001
This is how we found it, dirty dusty, and with 4 flat tires, oh and the spiders!
Interior is in great shape. Just imagine what it would look like if it had been covered!
May 19, 2001
We aired the tires and pulled it from the grave.
Now that it was looking like a car again we loaded it for a cross country journey. Thanks to all of the pit crew (camera woman also).
August 13, 2001
Three months later after a new ignition system, brake system, and many other parts it was ready for its first drive. The car ran beautifully. It has a 64,700 miles and after 10 years was ready to roll out some more, just in time for the 2001 Dream Cruise.
One serious high pressure wash, two coats of wax, and a whole can of chrome polish later it was ready for cruisin'. It goes to show that there is always a little shine in all of us. Its just a matter how deep are you willing to go.
May 14, 2002
The body restoration has started. The front fenders and doors have been stripped and all the dents, damage and surface rust removed. Next is the hood and cowl panels. Stay tuned.
MAY 21, 2002
Piece by piece the front half was stripped, filled, and primed. No more dings, scratches, dents, bumps, or scuffs. Paint goes on next week, wet sanded to a flat finish, repaint, and then polish. It will be an interesting contrast between front and back. The back will be done later this year including the door jambs and all new seals. Excellent progress!
June 17, 2002
The restoration and body work has continued on to the back. The rear has been stripped and will be repainted. The front and rear glass will be removed and all new seals installed throughout the car.
The trunk lid has been primed and looks fantastic!
October 11, 2002
Working hard on the rear and the roof. Next step, prime the rest then reassemble.
This is the painful part, it looks like we have gone back to square one, however, if your are going to do it, do it right, remove the glass, get all new seals. Oh, it hurts to look at it like this!
The tech says the body is in great shape, solid like a rock!
June 13, 2003
Well, a lot has been done since last seen. As you can see its reassembled, the glass reinstalled, and the paint complete. What a finish!
Just need the finishing touches, reattach the chrome and emblems and we are back in business.
September 6, 2003
Finally the day has come! New paint, new carpet, new seals, no dents, perfect!
The finish is as smooth as glass and reflects as well as a mirror. T&W did an awesome job with every detail. I couldn't be more happy.
Now for the journey back to Oklahoma. Don't worry we will be back to cruise Woodward, many times.
January 15, 2004
November 20, 2005
May 21, 2006
And here is the Continental and its proud owner in 1983.
The Continental Mark II Specs - from the www.markii.com web site and club
Technical Information:
Engine: Lincoln 368 c.i., V8 engine, 285-300 bhp with Holley 4-barrel carburetor (13-17 mpg)
Transmission: Turbo-Drive 3-speed automatic; Differential: Hotchkiss type
Power steering, power brakes, power windows, power front seat, leather upholstery
Air conditioning, Town and Country AM radio, vacuum windshield washer and wipers
Length: 218.5" (18' 2.5"), Width: 77.5" (6' 5.5"), Height: 56" (4' 8"), Weight: 5100 lbs (2.55 tons)
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