1964 CADILLAC FLEETWOOD SIXTY SPECIAL

Typical onset: 80,000-150,000 mi

Symptoms: Deep knocking from crankcase especially when cold or under load, Oil pressure drops below 10 psi at idle when hot, Metallic debris visible in oil filter or pan, Progressive loss of power as clearances open up

Fix: Complete engine removal required for proper bearing replacement. With engine out, typical to do full rebuild including rings, timing chain, oil pump. Expect 30-40 hours labor for R&R plus machining. Crankshaft often needs grinding at 0.010" or 0.020" undersize. If crank is damaged beyond 0.030" you're hunting for a core.

Estimated cost: $4,500-7,500

Typical onset: 70,000-120,000 mi

Symptoms: Delayed engagement into drive or reverse (more than 2 seconds), Harsh 1-2 or 2-3 shifts especially when cold, Transmission slips under acceleration then catches abruptly, Burnt ATF smell or dark brown fluid on dipstick

Fix: THM400 is generally bulletproof but clutch packs wear and modulator diaphragms fail. Most need full rebuild with new clutches, bands, seals, and modulator. Trans can be done in-car but tight quarters. Figure 18-24 hours with proper cleaning and valve body work. These units are rebuildable but finding correct thrust washers and some hard parts getting scarce.

Estimated cost: $2,200-3,800

Symptoms: Transmission fluid pooling under radiator area or front crossmember, Sudden loss of all ATF within minutes if line ruptures completely, Transmission overheating on highway runs, Drips visible along steel cooler lines between trans and radiator

Fix: Original steel lines rust through where they route near frame rails and are exposed to road salt. Lines are NLA from Cadillac so requires custom fabrication or adaptation from aftermarket. Transmission mounts often need replacement simultaneously as they sag and stress lines. 4-6 hours labor for lines, mounts, and fluid refill. Critical repair—running dry destroys transmission in under 5 miles.

Estimated cost: $600-1,200

Symptoms: Hard starting when hot, floods and requires throttle pumping, Strong fuel smell in garage after sitting overnight, Black smoke on startup or at idle, Stumble or bog on acceleration from stop, Fuel leaking from carburetor base or accelerator pump

Fix: Rochester 4-barrel carbs gum up badly if car sits. Float needle seats fail causing flooding. Full rebuild kit with proper float setting typically solves it. Also replace fuel filter (often neglected), inspect mechanical fuel pump diaphragm, and check fuel lines. In-car rebuild takes 4-6 hours if you know these carbs. Modern ethanol fuel accelerates varnish buildup—monthly drives essential.

Estimated cost: $500-950

Typical onset: 60,000-100,000 mi

Symptoms: Steering wanders requiring constant correction above 45 mph, Clunking over bumps felt through steering wheel, Excessive play at wheel (more than 2 inches free play), Uneven tire wear on inner edges

Fix: These 5,000-lb cars eat idler arms and center links. Pitman arm bushings also wear. Full front end rebuild includes idler, center link, tie rod ends, ball joints. Alignment critical afterward—these cars need caster/camber/toe all dialed in. Parts still available reproduction. 8-12 hours labor for complete job. Don't chase individual components; do it all at once.

Estimated cost: $1,400-2,200

Symptoms: Pedal slowly sinks to floor when held at stoplight, Spongy pedal feel despite repeated bleeding, Brake fluid leaking at firewall or inside car at pedal, One circuit fails giving 'half brakes' feeling

Fix: Single-reservoir master cylinders common through '64 are dangerous when they fail—total brake loss possible. Internal seals fail from sitting or old fluid. Upgrade to later dual-reservoir master highly recommended for safety. Takes 3-4 hours with proper bench bleeding and system flush. Power booster diaphragms also fail on these. Drums all around mean long stopping distances even when perfect.

Estimated cost: $450-850