1912 Cadillac engine, needs TLC

[Peter]

I found this engine (1912 cadillac)... outside for very loooong time. i wonder if parts are available for anywhere reasonable or is it sufficiently valuable that rather than spend a fortune on parts, it could be sold to get somethine else nice? This would look pretty sharp with brass jackets and dual ignition, but its really really a mess.

[Patrick McNallen]

I used to have an owner's manual for a 1912 Cadillac, but I sold it back in 1969. My grandad had a 1912, but it was long gone before my time. The 1912 Cadillac was the first production car to have an electric self-starter. It may also have been the last year for the 4 cylinder engine, but I'm not sure about that. I don't know how many 1912 Cadillacs were built, but it wasn't many, and very few survive in any condition. Your engine is quite rare, and its condition may not be as hopeless as it looks.

[Peter]

Thats funny, cause I got the owners manual with this engine too.

I assumed this was rare engine and 1912 cadillac a valuable car. The question is, what would make more sense, restoration of this engine, whichs needs two heads, both ignition systems (plus whatever else) or would a car person give me enough to finace a nice one lunger?

Can anyone recommend a good car site or cadillac site? Do the car guys have an equivalent to Harry's?

[John Davidson]

Originally Posted by Patrick McNallen

I used to have an owner's manual for a 1912 Cadillac, but I sold it back in 1969. My grandad had a 1912, but it was long gone before my time. The 1912 Cadillac was the first production car to have an electric self-starter. It may also have been the last year for the 4 cylinder engine, but I'm not sure about that. I don't know how many 1912 Cadillacs were built, but it wasn't many, and very few survive in any condition. Your engine is quite rare, and its condition may not be as hopeless as it looks.

The Cadillac 4 cylinder engine was used 1911 thru 1914. In 1915 they came out with a V 8 engine. The Horseless Carriage Club list 48-1911, 41-1912, 46-1913 Cadillacs owned by members in the 2002 roster. The 1913-14 engine was upgraded from 286ci (4.5x4.5) to 365ci (4.5x5.75).

[markH]

Hopefully this picture will come thru. Saw one of these restored at a car show , the engine was beautiful. I would think you could sell that motor in Hemmings.

[Robt.]

So that's what these cylinders are from...

[pre16]

Originally Posted by Peter

I found this engine (1912 cadillac)... outside for very loooong time. i wonder if parts are available for anywhere reasonable or is it sufficiently valuable that rather than spend a fortune on parts, it could be sold to get somethine else nice? This would look pretty sharp with brass jackets and dual ignition, but its really really a mess.

I can be of some help either for you rebuilding at for turning it inro cash for other interests...or a swap for make and brake.
email lburt@maine.rr.com

[Peter]

I sent replies to Rob (cylinders for sale?) and pre16(what do you have for trade?)

please drop me a note, if you dont get my email - sent via harrys

This thing is just sitting. it should either go to someone who can use it or I'd like to try and bring it back (doubtful).

thanks guys

[vern0n]

That looks like the engine I saw on Ebay a while back. Looks only good for parts to me.

[Peter]

GOD No! -- Its not from ebay. I got that will some sawmill parts back in 2004.

I agree, I think its best for parts. Then it is potentially a beautyful engine as shown in the post here. That would be a big job for someone. I had a reply telling me this particular engine often developes a cracked block, so it could be the ideal part for such a person and he (pre16) has offered too ask around.

[pre16]

Had a puter HD crash...please resend your last email
lburt@maine.rr.com
Bert

[OneWelder]

I may have seen a starter-generater comb for this at Volkman Electric- Goffstown, NH (603) 623-6945