CHRYSLER 300
1955- 1970
BODY & CHASSIS
The shift in 1960 from separate to integrated body/chassis design creates problems for buyers of later 300-Series cars. Rust through the floors, around suspension and sub frame mounting points is more dangerous and costly to eradicate than with chassis versions and may not even be justifiable in a lowvalue car. Panel rust isn’t a major problem but check wheel arches, rear quarters and the boot floor. Good sheet metal is difficult to find, even from the USA, but some repair sections including floor-pans and sills are available. Chromed parts are equally scarce and usually costly, with used bumpers likely to need expensive rechroming. Examples of items recently offered include a second-hand 300E grille at US$990 and replated 1967-69 bumpers, ex-USA for A$2950 plus freight and import costs.
ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
Parts for early Hemi engines are getting scarce and even the specialist US suppliers have significantly increased their prices. Cracked or warped cylinder heads can dramatically increase renovation costs so beware any car, even with the later 383/440 cubic inch motor, that is overheating. Finding the correct carburettors for a Hemi is very difficult and even repro distributors were offered at US$12001500. Vibration and underbody thuds when accelerating can be due to a collapsed transmission mount. The ‘Sure-Grip’ differentials fitted to 1950s cars needs special fluid to prevent wear and are near impossible to rebuild, so listen for diff clunks when accelerating out of corners.
SUSPENSION & BRAKES
Everything under a 300 is fairly simple, with spare parts even for early cars still available. Crunching, crackling noises from the front-end point to problems with torsion bars and their mountings, including serious rust. Post-1962 cars share virtually everything with other 1960s Chryslers so won’t be too tough to maintain. RHD conversions must be inspected by an expert to make sure you’re not buying a car with dangerous faults or failing components. Disc brake conversions are available and worthwhile if your 1960s 300 is going to be used regularly.
INTERIOR & ELECTRICAL
The interior of any 300 demands detailed inspection and that could be a problem if the car is being bought sight-unseen from overseas. Assume when pricing such a vehicle that much of the electrical equipment will need repair or replacement. Seriously torn or worn seat trim will be difficult to repair as original-pattern fabrics and leather are unavailable and may necessitate a complete retrim. Carpet sets can be found but detail items including stainless cabin embellishments will need to be bought second-hand. The roof mechanism used by 1960s convertibles is complex and repairs can swallow many thousands of restoration dollars.