–By Eric Fantin– In the follow up of the beginning of the restoration of the 1955 2CV here is the latest update:
After the body and frame were separated and sent to the sand blaster I had time to pull the drive train to assess the condition of the mechanical bits.
The 12 hp 425 cc motor and drive train had not been started since 1974!!! After doing a basic compression check, I assumed the best course of action was to see if the motor would actually run. Missing were a few parts like carburetor and ignition. I was able to procure the needed parts in France (early 2CV parts are a bit harder to find). New point and condenser and used carburetor along with a starter and coil, completed the engine. I gravity fed the engine with fresh gas and after a few hesitations, the engine roared back to life, a very satisfying feeling!
The next move is to purchase a new muffler system, fuel pump, motor mounts and install the front inboard brakes, after that, the steel fan and shroud will remove and refurbished. Once all this is completed, the drivetrain could be installed on frame once it is ready, maybe this late spring a running chassis could be a possibility….