New owner of a 1952 Pontiac Chieftain

[MercMontMars]

Hi there, I am new to the Forever Pontiac forums and joined to ask some questions about my new to me 1952 Pontiac Chieftain. I do not know much about it and would love to know everything this forum can teach me. The car is VERY original, with original paint, interior and trim. Motor was swapped by the previous owner to a 1954 Straight-8. I do not know what transmission is in it but it is an automatic and feels like there is more than 2 gears. The vehicle runs and drives well, but the moment I got it to my shop a coolant line under the drivers side door blew and I think my rear main seal is leaking oil (leaking around the flywheel.)

What I’d like to know is how to maintenance and care for this motor, general tips and tricks and anything else I could possibly need to know. Going to do a mild restoration on this car, enough to make it a comfortable and safe reliable daily driver. Thank you for any help, and please enjoy the photos.

P.S

If anyone has any parts for sale, specifically the front sunshade and a few other things, let me know. I need to restore the spotlight and interior components. 

[Ringo64]

Thats one nice looking Chieftain!

[JUSTA6]

That's one fine ride there. Welcome to the site.  Lots of owners to swap thoughts with around here. 

[MercMontMars]

@JUSTA6 @Ringo64 Thanks! I can’t wait to get her where she needs to be. Bought her for how simple these cars are. Will be a fun daily before long.

[Fitzy]

That beautiful art deco hood ornament is a testament to decades long gone, when you paid honest money and you got plenty of metal for it. It's a work of art.

What a stylish old beast it is.

[MercMontMars]

@Fitzy Very much so, post war vehicles had true Americana soul and their manufacturers had so much pride for their work. I imagine her first owner couldn’t stop smiling on the drive home, admiring the glorious interior and comfort. Can see the hood for miles from the drivers seat!