"lil red" 1965 Mercury Comet Caliente

[sugarmaker]

Ford and Merc Folks,
(note I have a thread on the 32 to 53 portion of the Ford Barn about our 32 truck)

Back Story:
I stopped to see a four door 1949 Merc setting in a drive with a 64 Ford truck in the garage in process. That was almost two years ago. The 90 year old owner allowed me to go into a back storage building with him to look at more of his cars. He had just sold his very nice jet black original 1940 Ford. As I wiped the tears from my eyes and drool from my lips,. i spied this red unit in the corner.
It was a red Mercury Comet, I liked it and asked him if he was selling some of his cars like the Comet. He said no he had guys standing in line 6 deep to buy the Comet. So I cooled down and thanked him for allowing me to look at his cars.
He invited me to a local car show and said I could park in his drive.

I came back in the summer took some pictures and he let me drive the car a couple miles. Both Cheryl and I thought this might work for us. Yes the car had some issues. But in general it was going to meet our needs of a good driver that was pretty much turn key. Not perfect by any means, But it tripped my kid trigger. and at 72 we need that!

We continued to talk over the next year, him and his wife wanted to drive the Comet all last summer. He told me he might sell the car in 2024 due to tax reasons. So last November I stopped to see the owner and his wife and made him a offer on the Comet. He said that number was about what he thought he needed for the car.

I stopped Christmas eve 2023 and we sealed the deal with a hand shake, in his warm kitchen next to his wood stove. Just after the first of the year 2024 we brought the car home on a nice day in winter.

Enough talk, some pictures:

As I found it:












My friend John and son Adam brought the Comet home about 10 miles:






Home in the shop:


The car has 81K miles. It was brought from Tennessee to Erie about 20 years ago. 289 V8 with C4 auto tranny. It is the Caliente trim pack, with bucket seats and console.




Cheryl trying it out too:




More later.
Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[Bob from Northport]

Very nice car!! I had one-my first car in High School. Paid 1600.00 from a Ford Dealer in Dearborn, Michigan

[oldbugger]

thats a beautiful car. I had a 60 pea green 2dr, daily driver we called it the vomet

[ms fowler]

A presentable COMPLETE car --looks great

[ms fowler]

Originally Posted by oldbugger

thats a beautiful car. I had a 60 pea green 2dr, daily driver we called it the vomet

That was the punch line of a joke back in the day. A new car was to be produced as a joint effort, combining the Mercury Comet with the Plymouth Valiant, to be call the Vomet. It would have throw up windows and bucket seat.

[RKS.PA]

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Congratulations, Chris!!! She's a beauty and you and Cheryl are in for some great times!!!

Love everything about that car, right down to the classic PA licence plate!!

Well done!!

Regards...Dick.

[oldave57]

That is a beautiful car. Very straight and nice interior, looks like it's ready to drive and enjoy. Congratulations !!!!

[paul2748]

The 65 Comet hardtop with the HIPO engine was my dream car. Then decided to wait a year and got a 66 Fairlane which had a big block in it.

[sugarmaker]

Folks,
RSK mentioned the license plate: Yes a vintage 65 plate with the "65 sticker" in the corner. John got the plate for me before I had purchased the car!
This was the last time it will get PA inspected, as we moved the title to Antique.


Our son Adam has been helping me work on the Comet recently. Front tires have been changed to 235-60/14. The clearances was much improved.
We rebuilt the steering control valve. Also new exhaust donuts. Replaced the boot on the power steering piston shaft. (rev )See the pictures below!
Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[sugarmaker]

Folks,
Thanks for the replies on the Comet. Most folks that see it, like the car too. Yes it brings back some memories of when we were in our teenage years too!

When we got the car home the inspection began. The trunk was in good shape with only minor surface rust and a couple places that needed some seam sealer:




A good cleaning and some wire brushing then primer and a coat of red to freshen the trunk area. I did order new side boards for the trunk also. Original trunk mat cleaned up nice and the bumper jack components and spare are in place.


Color looks a little off, but was wet. It matches really well with the exterior Carnival Red.



Here is John Kelley cleaning the front bumper. John has helped me a lot with that car even finding some parts for me on line too! John had a Cyclone and can relate to these better than I can. I think he is having as much fun as I am!


We changed out the old plugs with a new set. Like many other things they had not been touched for many years:


The 10 inch drum brakes were inspected and cleaned with brake Kleen. The right front had the shoes on back wards so that cam apart and was corrected. Rear drums were turned at ORiely's:




Front wheel bearings cleaned and repacked. All brake drums were sandblasted and coated with high temp black:




The front tires which were too large in diameter 225-70/14 were swapped out for new 235-60/14s. The Ford Magnum 500 rims were cleaned and the black touched up. They are 14 inch rims, 7 inch wide and 4.25 back spacing:


Again John right in the action:


This smaller tire provided adequate spacing from the tire to the fender. Note 5/16 spacers were added on the front, to allow the tire to clear the ball joint area:


The rear air shocks were pumped up to 55 psi to provide the needed tire to inner fender clearance needed.


The lift in the shop was great!


Inside the car several little things were addressed. The center console emblem was missing and these are impossible to find? So I made a piece of black walnut in the correct shape and applied satin gloss. It matches the other wood grain in the car: Yes its not the correct piece but will fill the empty spot on the console for a long time.


test fit prior to the spray polyurethane:


Also a piece of the chrome race track trim had broke and was glued back in place on the console lid. Drivers arm rest was replaced with a repro from Ecklers in palomino, then sprayed with SEM Super white to match the interior:


The bulb in the courtesy light in the door was changed out. John found a NOS lens on line for me should I need a spare some day:



Sorry for the picture overload!
Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[sugarmaker]

Folks,
Over the last several days Adam has helped a lot working on the Comet. Sure is nice to have a young guy right there helping the old man!

Adam getting his chance at the wheel of the Comet for some much needed throttle blipping, of the healthy sounding glass packs!:


We rebuilt the control valve and tested the steering. Yes this helped the system preform as it should. The oil-lite bearing in the assembly was not moving freely due to corrosion If you haven't done one of these they are really fun!








We then replaced both exhaust donuts. This was the major exhaust leak that we were hearing in the engine bay. Custom dual exhaust was added to the Comet at some point in the past and it was another challenge to get these exhaust donuts in place and secure with new stainless 7/16-20 nuts.
Here is the old and the new above:




More parts arrived and we took on the replacement of the boot over the power steering piston rod. The before:


After:


Thanks for checking in on us. Our maple season will begin soon and the Comet will get a break.

Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[Als48]

Hey Chris,

The Comet is really nice! Should be a good addition to the fleet.

Al Hook

[sugarmaker]

Al, Folks,
Thanks! Having fun working on it to be ready for spring!
Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[5851a]

Nice looking car.

[sugarmaker]

5851a, Folks,
Thanks for checking on me.
We had the comet out for the first drives today, so more baby pictures:








I need more seat time to get comfortable with the almost 60 year old car.
Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[ms fowler]

The condition of the trunk makes me jealous! If that is the extent of the rust you have a truly great find. I did that power steering power valve about 40 years ago. I modified a pair of regular pliers to make R & R one of the clips easier. It was "tedious", but not impossible.

[BW]

Very nice car have fun!

[RKS.PA]

Chris, I can't believe the progress you've made!!! If I've got the time line right, you picked up this beauty in early January, so basically you've done all these "restoration" things in a little less than a month??....including making the black walnut insert??

You and your team are a group possessed!!!...and having the time of your lives!!!

Cheers.....Dick

[sugarmaker]

ms fowler,
I found one small rust area in the inside rear fender well, probably caused by the drain in that are being plugged with years of dirt. That area had been repaired with filler. So yes this car had some very good previous owners. The paint job is adequate to be a great driver car. I dont plan on painting it again as that could cost as much as the car!

BW,
Thanks, looking forward to some good weather to get the comet out and stretch its legs.

Dick,
A lot of parts are shared with Falcon and Mustang so parts seem to be available. Sure helps to have a warm shop with a lift to work in. Yes we are having fun. Still some moves to clean up some details. Always something to do.

Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[Ford56]

That car is gorgeous; I love every picture of it!

[scicala]

All this talk and pictures about the Comet, with no mention of which engine is under the hood, other thn a picture of 8 dirty spark plugs and a right side exhaust manifold.
So, I assume it's a 289, but which one ? Two barrel or 4 barrel ?

Sal

[sugarmaker]

Sal, folks,
Yes this Comet has a 289 with stock 2V carb. It does have duals and glass packs. Also has C4 auto transmission. (information hidden in post number 1)
Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[sugarmaker]

Folks,
We have been tuning and testing and learning about the 2 barrel carb on the Comet. Good instructions have helped get the choke settings much closer. The car is starting better, and not stalling.
Adjusted the trunk and hood. Some new parts coming to help clean up some details.
Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[rjlester]

Finally read thru this thread. Congrats on a great car! You've made some nice improvements and it looks fantastic.

[sugarmaker]

rj,
Thanks! The seat refurbishment will be a large project for the car this spring. New foam and improved seat springs for the front buckets too. I didnt realize these seats were so worn and sagging. They have been covered once in material that matches the original style very well. The plan is to reuse the current covers.
Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[sugarmaker]

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Ford Barn folks,
New seat foam and the right back up light lens:


John helped look at the lens today.


Old:


new:












Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[KULTULZ]

You know, a 64/65 COMET (the 65 more so) were beautiful cars.

Those MAGNUM wheels really set it off.

Tell that lovely wife of yours I said she looks sixteen again behind that steering wheel ...

[5851a]

Very nice, great colors. Nice lenses too.

[sugarmaker]

KULTULZ, 5851a,
Thanks for the positive comments. Cheryl would be tickled! We have been together since we were kids. The Comet may help us relive a few of those memories.
We are doing an oil change, filter, and maybe fuel filter change also. Then carb rebuild and the seat project. We hope to be ready for spring car cruises.
Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[sugarmaker]

Ford Barn folks,
The Comet project is moving along nicely.

Changed the oil and filter. Also changed the fuel filter canister.

The seats are being reupholstered, improving the spring system and new foam. Also going to move the seat back a couple inches and try it.


Carb has been rebuilt with new gaskets and a good cleaning. The car is running much better on several starts:


Adjusted the drivers door latch post on the door jam just a smidge. Working like a new one!
In the shop living room for a needed bath.




Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[Oldmics2]

Nice car

[slumlord44]

Love it. I’ve had 3 65’s over the years back in the day. I had both a Calante and a Cyclone. Am I wrong or is this a Caliente with a Cycone interior? I’m not criticizing just relating my experience.

[Jeff Norwell]

That is one beautiful Merc. Just Lovely.

[Greg Rogers]

Love that car!!

[sugarmaker]

Oldmics2, slumlord 44th, Jeff, Greg, Folks,
Mic,
Thanks for the compliments on the old Comet.
Slumlord 44th,
I believe that the interior is correct factory buckets and console from the factory.
Jeff,
Thanks! Wow you do amazing work! Might need a Comet drawing added to your works too! Just saying.....
Greg,
Thanks, We have talked somewhere?? Maybe on the 32??

Update on the Comet:
cleaned up the back of the center console


The wood insert is my own creation. Black Walnut shaped to fit in where the unobtainable plastic insert went.




Had new foam installed over the old springs and under the old covers. Local shop did a nice job making this happen and look good in a couple weeks. Seats are now much more supportive. Spring was broke and repaired.


I made custom rails to set the seats rearward 3 inches. Rails can be removed to return seats to stock positions.




Re stripped the arm rest and painted it again with SEm white.


Installed a repro mirror on the passengers door today. I even moved it back from the more correct position so I could see out of it:




Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[sugarmaker]

Folks,
Continuing to make minor improvements to the 65. The carb needed the float reset, to allow more fuel in the bowl. That seems to allow it to run better.
Cheryl and I have driven to several local ice cream shops! It always gets looks and comments.
Yesterday I reworked the door weather strip that was falling off.
Also added a little brake fluid. Washed the exterior and Adam cleaned some of the chrome with a nevrdull polish.
Getting ready for car cruise ins, and several car shows.
My tractor events may take a back seat as I need to spend much more time with Cheryl.
Hope things are good in Ford land!
Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[sugarmaker]

Folks,




Several 50 mile rides with friends and to ice cream stops along the way too.
Still tuning but getting better and still learning!


Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[RKS.PA]

Chris, wonderful to see you and Cheryl out and about in Lil Red!!! Hoping she continues to do well...rides for ice cream certainly can't hurt anyone!!!

[sugarmaker]

RKS.PA, folks,
The ice cream trips with lots of 50's music seem to be a good thing for both of us!
We have a car show in our little town this Saturday but the weather is not going to be great. So we may travel to the tractor plow day with the Allis D17 and two bottom Dearborn plows attached? Will try to get some pictures too.
I still feel that the Comet has a slight miss at various times. More checking and tuning required I guess?
Noticed differential leak on right rear wheel. Ordered seals and gaskets from NAPA for that project. Have never pulled an axle on a car before. So that should be fun.
John and I did manage to remove the chrome eyelids on the headlights. I think I like it better with just the full bulb look.




Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[RKS.PA]

Hi, Chris,

Pulling your right axle is no big deal compared with pulling one on John's coupe!!! At least I'm hoping that's the case for you!!!

By the way, you might pose a quiz on here to see how many of us know what a "two bottom plow" is. (I'm a farm kid and I know!!!)

Regards,

Dick.

[sugarmaker]

Dick, Folks,
We had fun plowing and I do have pictures. We plowed about 10 acres before we got rained out.
On the Comet, John and I took a look at the vent on the differential. It was plugged. Got that vent cleaned out. Have drove maybe 50 -60 miles and have not had any more leaks. Keeping my fingers crossed.
Just replaced a nearly rotten rubber fuel line on the Comet. It may not have been replaced for a long time?
I may have to take the carb off and clean it more thoroughly? I am still learning on these for sure. It has a miss and it may be in the carb passages?
Cheryl and I are planning a trip around our local state park in Erie (Presque Isle) tomorrow evening with our AACA club. Hope to get a good group of our cars out for a spring tour.
Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[sugarmaker]

Folks,
Some picture updates
John and our car at the White Turkey ice cream stand:




Still tuning and learning on the Comet. had the carb off and cleaned again. New repro short yellow top coil. We also had a plug with zero gap! That did not help the engine perform as it should. Next up will be a new idler arm and bracket to improve the steering

Our Comet at my high school


Comet friend Mike R and his awesome 65 Cyclone at local show:



Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[sugarmaker]

Folks,
Swapped front buckets seats for a better ride.









The new idler arm improved the steering on the Comet. This is the worn old one, it had about a 1/16 inch of slop.


Several other carb parts coming next week to see if the surging can be eliminated?
Hope things are good? We have car shows several times a week and ice cream trips if we run out of things to do.
Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[sugarmaker]

Ford folks,
The comet is running and driving better. Like a lot of these cars that are 60 years old they need some maintenance and attention and driving!
Will set timing up a tad to about 9 degrees BTDC and also check fuel level in the float bowl while it's running. Wish me
luck.

We have had many trips for ice cream with the weather being great!
Regards,

[RKS.PA]

Chris, she's looking better and better. Love that interior!! And judging from your posts and pictures, you, Cheryl, and John are having more fun than anyone has a right to!!!!

Betting everyday when you go out to see the "lil red", it just makes you smile!!!

Cheers,

Dick.

[sugarmaker]

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RKS.PA, Folks,
We all have been having fun with the old cars! Today we drove the Comet and John drove his wife's 55 to our AACA car show. We had a good day and stopped for dinner on the way back home.
Cheryl and i have a car show tomorrow night in Erie and a car cruise somewhere almost every day of the week if we wanted. Good to test on the Comet! Found out today from the nephew of one of the previous owners that the Comet has been repainted a couple times and had some minor body work done. car did come up to Erie from Tenn. I remember the guys uncle because he had a 1955 Crown in pink and white years ago. Always reminded me of the 55 Crown Cheryl and i had for 30 years.
We are looking forward to visiting with friends next week at the Early V8 meet in Auburn next week too.
Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[sugarmaker]

Folks,
Still working with the Comet. Replaced most of the front suspension and steering components. In for alignment today hop to get it back in a few days. Found or hearing a issue in left front wheel area.
We also added new front disc brakes and dual master cylinder.
Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[sugarmaker]

Folks,
John and I took the Comet for a spin around the block. Within a mile of our house we stopped to look at a 1941 Srudebaker four door. A Commander model, in very good original condition. It needs about the same things as Johns 46 Ford. Brakes probably need work. Car has the straight 6 Cylinder engine. And the owner says it runs pretty good with under 60K miles. It's a family car. Pretty cool to see another barn find that hasn't been on the road in 20+ years. (we had to rinse and wipe the Comet off when we got home)

Back to the Comet.
Here are some pictures from this fall as Cheryl and I spent a lot of time taking rides:
These were from Presque Isle in Erie. This is a very nice ride around the 17 mile park with many places to stop and view Lake Erie.








Several things we did after the front end work was to put new tires on the front. They are all the same size at this time. Also have had the front end aligned. I am much more comfortable to run the Comet up to 60 and it steers pretty good.

Hope things are good out there as we head into some weather with wind, rain and maybe some snow.
Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[KULTULZ]

That is one CLEAN COMET!

The MAGNUM 500's really set it off.

Will you be bedding her down soon for winter?

[sugarmaker]

KULTULZ,
Thanks! I like those period correct Ford Magnum wheels also. It was one of the things I wanted to keep on the "lil red Comet". Yes the weather is heading towards winter. But if the roads are dry it may come out at any time to take a ride! Its running and driving pretty well after all the work last spring. We took it to Erie for pizza several times last month. One of the things planned for this winter is to replace the rear springs with some new Eaton units.
Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[sugarmaker]

Guys,
I did get a nice car cover for the Comet.


some other pics from last month when I was bored:
























Happy New Year!
Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[miker98038]

Happy New Year to you, too. I really have enjoyed reading your posts and adventures with that gorgeous car.

[Ford blue blood]

Very nice! My ride with the 61 S-22 will be starting soon. Still in the "Frozen Tundra", will put a couple of pics up when we get home.

[Ford56]

That Caliente looks so good, in every single picture. I luv looking at your car.

[RKS.PA]

Happy New Year, Chris and Cheryl!!! Yes, "lil red" is a beauty and thanks for posting the latest pictures!! That car cover will keep her toasty, even though I think your shop is heated!!

How long before the Maple Syrup operation cranks up!! Sure has been cold enough in your parts for the sap to be getting ready??

Regards,

Dick.

[sugarmaker]

Mike, Bill, Ford 56, and Dick,
Thanks! Just adding some pictures for folks to get enthused about their cars or projects, during the winter months!

I really like the 56 Victoria! I look often for one, but I really don't need another car! We had a 55 Crown Vic when we were young and owned it for about 30 years. I did a shade tree restoration on it and we had some fun with it.

Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[Flathead Fever]

I had a 4-spd '65 Cyclone around 1984, kind of wish I still had it. My friend drove it to college and when he got out school, I bought it from him for $400.00. It had a big cam, Offenhauser intake, headers, reworked heads with big valves. By the time he was out of school it had burned valve, and the clutch was just about gone. I bought it and pulled the heads and had a valve job done on them and put new clutch in it, kept it a month and sold it for $1200.00. It was a good running car; it could beat my '66 Shelby GT-350 which I still have. When he was in high school, we'd all pile in it and go to the beach. It had a huge trunk for beach trips.

[mhsprecher]

Always liked them.

[1942deluxe]

cyclone.jpg
My 65 Cyclone in front of our first home back in 1981.

[51504bat]

[sugarmaker]

Folks,
Those two black Cyclones are a great looking pair!
John has help me a lot with the "lil red" Comet. His support and information on these cars sure was a great asset as we worked on improvements to the 65. Many trips this past year with the Comet and Johns 55 to car shows, ice cream stands and just rides in the country.
Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[mercman from oz]

1965 Mercury Comet Caliente Two Door Hardtop

[mercman from oz]

1965 Mercury Comet Cyclone Two Door Hardtop

[5851a]

Very nice great colors.

[Ford blue blood]

The adventure begins......

[51504bat]

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[Ford blue blood]

Car came out of TX, sun baked seals and window felts, all need replacement. Has a 78 200 in it, haven't gotten all the numbers off the head and block to know exactly what I have. It runs and drives but will need some "tinkering" to make it good.

[sugarmaker]

Bill,
Congrats on the Comet! A great project!
Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[sugarmaker]

Ford folks,
Some pictures from Easter cruise to PA state park Presque Isle in Erie PA.
Looking into the bay:


A cool but sunny day to take Cheryl for a ride and ice cream at Sara's when we exit the park after a 20 mile drive:


This was at Perry's Monument. wind was very cool!:


Along the beach (yes the sand is that high) on the lake side of the trip:


Sara's restaurant:


Got home and ordered new rear springs to bring the Comet a little above stock height in the rear. The current air shocks are doing most of the work to keep the car up and level. Hopefully new springs and conventional shocks will improve the ride also.


Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[5851a]

Very nice

[lpgambler]

Just a quick note from south of you in Brookville , Pa. I have a brother of your Comet , same color , but black interior and 4 speed hence a brother..I have not spent the time on mine that you have spent on yours , but it fills a gap in my collections of Ford Products !

[1942deluxe]

lpgambler, you're about 100 miles from Chris and I. Been to Brookville to get charcoal for our local Lions Club's chicken barbeque.

[sugarmaker]

lpgambler,
If you get a chance post some pictures please of your Comet. John and I both would like to see them. I am sure other folks would also. We are not that far apart, would be nice to get together at some point. Lots of car cruise in's in Erie area. Some Comets there also! Your always welcome to stop in and visit!
I like your 5 window!
Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[mercurycyclone]

My Comet bought new in 1965.

[Zeke3]

Merc, that is a really short option list, so what transmission is in your car, 3 speed manual?

[sugarmaker]

Mercurycyclone,
We need some additional pictures. I assume you still own it?

Here are some recent pictures of our lil red Comet. Cheryl has been so patient to allow me to work on it for hours. With Johns help we installed new rear leaf springs, installation kit and conventional rear shocks. The goal was to set the rear of the car about the same height as when the air shocks were pumped up near the max. The air shocks which were on the car when we bought it. They worked but did leak down over winter. I did not want them to fail and let us down on the road.
So in my infinite wisdom, Ok a best guess, I ordered new leaf springs from Eaton. I specd 2 inches higher ride height. They raised the back of the car more than expected. maybe about 4 inches.
Oh yeah pictures.....
Yesterday (mothers day) we went for ice cream up near Lake Erie and then to Raccoon Park about 3 miles to the west. Right on the lake.


Cheryl like the ride and the AM comett radio had to be called upon since there was not cell reception:


So today's project was to put the old 225-70R14 tires on the rear of the car. Yep that made it even higher!


John helped me get these on and stretch the new springs again.


The concept here was to fill up the rear wheels more than the 235-60's.




Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[mercurycyclone]

I sold the car many years ago. I special ordered the car as shown with a 289 and three speed manual transmission. Black cloth interior.

[sugarmaker]

Guys,
(picture heavy)
I spend some time learning and sharing ideas on the Comet Forum too. Thought I better update a little with some pictures here. These are from three car events in the Erie PA area. Too much rain and 50 degrees or we would be going to one in North East Ohio tonight. Maybe next week?

Linesviille PA










64 Falcon
















Erie Bayfront cruise in












Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[sugarmaker]

Guys,
Edinboro PA Cruise in


John's Nice 55








We bought the Comet from the guy that owns this Pontiac. He is 93!














On this short trip I lost one of the small Mercury hub caps on the Magnum 500 wheels. Ordered another set from the Auto Krafter folks. It was my fault I found it was loose and didn't take the tire off and reattach/ tighten the screws that hold it on!
I did put four new headlights in it. Two were from 1964. Man you would think Ford stuff should last longer! Low beam pass side had burnt out.
Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[atch]

Originally Posted by sugarmaker

Ford and Merc Folks,
(note I have a thread on the 32 to 53 portion of the Ford Barn about our 32 truck)

Back Story:
I stopped to see a four door 1949 Merc setting in a drive with a 64 Ford truck in the garage in process. That was almost two years ago. The 90 year old owner allowed me to go into a back storage building with him to look at more of his cars. He had just sold his very nice jet black original 1940 Ford. As I wiped the tears from my eyes and drool from my lips,. i spied this red unit in the corner.
It was a red Mercury Comet, I liked it and asked him if he was selling some of his cars like the Comet. He said no he had guys standing in line 6 deep to buy the Comet. So I cooled down and thanked him for allowing me to look at his cars.
He invited me to a local car show and said I could park in his drive.

I came back in the summer took some pictures and he let me drive the car a couple miles. Both Cheryl and I thought this might work for us. Yes the car had some issues. But in general it was going to meet our needs of a good driver that was pretty much turn key. Not perfect by any means, But it tripped my kid trigger. and at 72 we need that!

We continued to talk over the next year, him and his wife wanted to drive the Comet all last summer. He told me he might sell the car in 2024 due to tax reasons. So last November I stopped to see the owner and his wife and made him a offer on the Comet. He said that number was about what he thought he needed for the car.

I stopped Christmas eve 2023 and we sealed the deal with a hand shake, in his warm kitchen next to his wood stove. Just after the first of the year 2024 we brought the car home on a nice day in winter.

Enough talk, some pictures:

As I found it:












My friend John and son Adam brought the Comet home about 10 miles:






Home in the shop:


The car has 81K miles. It was brought from Tennessee to Erie about 20 years ago. 289 V8 with C4 auto tranny. It is the Caliente trim pack, with bucket seats and console.




Cheryl trying it out too:




More later.
Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

Chris,

Color me jealous. There were three 1965 Cyclones in my small Missouri hometown when they were new. One red, one black, and one dark blue. All were 4-sp bucket seat cars. The blue one had the three factory gauges up on top of the dash. 1965 Comets were the absolutely best-looking Mercs of the 60's; and several other decades, too. If Sherry would just win the lottery (I've never bought a ticket) I'd have one in a heartbeat. The man who had the black one bought a burgundy one a few years ago.

I just found this thread and have only read the first half page but will go back and read the whole thing when I have the time.

Love your car. Congratulations on finding it and procuring it.

[atch]

Originally Posted by sugarmaker

Mercurycyclone,
We need some additional pictures. I assume you still own it?

Here are some recent pictures of our lil red Comet. Cheryl has been so patient to allow me to work on it for hours. With Johns help we installed new rear leaf springs, installation kit and conventional rear shocks. The goal was to set the rear of the car about the same height as when the air shocks were pumped up near the max. The air shocks which were on the car when we bought it. They worked but did leak down over winter. I did not want them to fail and let us down on the road.
So in my infinite wisdom, Ok a best guess, I ordered new leaf springs from Eaton. I specd 2 inches higher ride height. They raised the back of the car more than expected. maybe about 4 inches.
Oh yeah pictures.....
Yesterday (mothers day) we went for ice cream up near Lake Erie and then to Raccoon Park about 3 miles to the west. Right on the lake.


Cheryl like the ride and the AM comett radio had to be called upon since there was not cell reception:


So today's project was to put the old 225-70R14 tires on the rear of the car. Yep that made it even higher!


John helped me get these on and stretch the new springs again.


The concept here was to fill up the rear wheels more than the 235-60's.




Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

Chris, I wish I had known you were going to order new springs. I could have given you a bit of free advice. About 30 years ago my friend wanted to lower the front of his 1956 F-100 so ordered new springs with reversed eyes. Got them and installed them. Raised the front 2". New springs replacing old weak springs will always raise the car/truck.

[KULTULZ]

So in my infinite wisdom, Ok a best guess, I ordered new leaf springs from Eaton. I specd 2 inches higher ride height. They raised the back of the car more than expected. maybe about 4 inches.

No reason for that. Did you get back to EATON?

EATON was the supplier to FOMOCO and have all of the spring ratings.

They offer stock or modified. If nothing else, maybe lowering blocks?

[sugarmaker]

folks,
Atch, yes they di raise it more than I expected. May live with it/ Its not a bad look and with the front higher it sets pretty close.
KULTULZ,
I did get back to Eaton they are very knowledgeable. I asked for two inches higher than stock. If you look at the brochure pictures this is about 5 inches higher.
They said to push the spring eye back to get the shackle angled back. Doesn't work on these springs More arch in them. I may call them again.
Also Local spring shop could de-arch them if needed.
I am not loosing any sleep over it and several folks at shows have said leave it alone they like it.
Got my new Merc Man hub centers from Auto Krafters. They should work fine!
Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[atch]

You can always de-arch them yourself. All it takes is patience and elbow grease.

I'm sure you already know how but at our ages I probably wouldn't attempt it myself either.

[sugarmaker]

Mike,
Yes I think I could do it, Brute strength. Take them apart. hammering or pressing a little every couple inches a long the back side of each leaf. Thus deforming the leafs just right. Sounds straight forward, Maybe easier said then done. My luck they would be about like the ones I took out A tracing of the spring leaves before would allow you to sneak up on the new shape. Plus some dimensions. I can flatten the spring in the car with the port a power. Thus I could get the desired look and dimension with the spring loaded.
Not sure I will attempt this de arching. Not sure its worth the effort or gain.
I have checked most of the boxes with all the new suspension components added to the Comet. It steers and handles better. Stiffer than our 2015 Edge.
Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[atch]

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I have neither the strength or stamina that I used to have and knowing your age I doubt you do either.

Just drive the wheels off of that thing and enjoy every minute of it.

[sugarmaker]

Folks, atch,
We are still driving the Comet. With Johns help I did tighten the adjustment on the Comet steering box a 1/4 turn and it did tighten up the slop in the steering wheel. Keep tuning! Keep driving!
Have spoken with Mike at Eaton and they are building me a new set of springs with less arch and slightly longer. We will see how those set the car. Looking for something near 24 inch dimension at the rear wheel well.
Last night, John and his wife in their nice 55 Club Sedan. We crusied to the ice cream stand and then to a park on the lake:




This is from last week in Erie:


Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[KULTULZ]

Have spoken with Mike at Eaton and they are building me a new set of springs with less arch and slightly longer. We will see how those set the car.

Gad to hear that. Are they on an exchange/warranty basis? I would expect better from EATON.

I didn't want to say anything, but it ruined the look of the car (IMO).

[sugarmaker]

KULTULZ, folks,
The look is just a tad higher than I would like and the ride is pretty harsh. Mike at Eaton is working on design improvements to the rear leaf springs. The dimension I am looking for on the rear is about 23-24 inches from floor to the rear wheel well. We shall see.
Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[sugarmaker]

Guys,
John helped me put the redesigned rear leaf springs. It reset the rear of the car about 1.5 inch lower. Shackles are more in the slight rear direction as desired when we set the weight of the car on the springs. The shocks now have a 1.5 inch of stroke. That should provide a much better ride.

Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[KULTULZ]

Originally Posted by sugarmaker

Guys,

John helped me put the redesigned rear leaf springs. It reset the rear of the car about 1.5 inch lower. Shackles are more in the slight rear direction as desired when we set the weight of the car on the springs. The shocks now have a 1.5 inch of stroke. That should provide a much better ride.



Regards,

Chris and Cheryl

Now that is more like it ...

I forgot to mention as to shock travel length/stroke/mounting needing to be modified if a car is lowered or raised. Bad things can happen.

Now Miss Cheryl will not have to worry her ice cream may fall out of the cone if hitting a bump in the road ...

[atch]

Originally Posted by sugarmaker

Guys,
John helped me put the redesigned rear leaf springs. It reset the rear of the car about 1.5 inch lower. Shackles are more in the slight rear direction as desired when we set the weight of the car on the springs. The shocks now have a 1.5 inch of stroke. That should provide a much better ride.

Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

Good job Chris.

Some folks might argue with me but imho those '65 Comets were the best looking car Mercury ever made. And that includes the '40 and '49-'52 Mercs which have such a cult following.

[sugarmaker]

Guys,
The look is fine. The shocks should function better now. We took the Comet to a cruise in last night. The ride was good. But there is a problem somewhere in the drive line. turning to the right there is a grinding noise? We had to leave early due to not feeling well. Kidney stones. These things are nasty! Better this morning. Will do some testing and evaluation on the Comet noise. Sounds like the noise is from the rear??
Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[atch]

Sherry had a kidney stone some years back and said it was MUCH worse than childbirth. Hope you all get through this.

[sugarmaker]

atch, folks,
I am learning lots of things these days! Health and cars.
John came over and we looked the underside of the Comet over to see if we found somewhere something was rubbing. Still did not find the issue. On hard fairly slow right turn is sounds like something is rubbing. Like a tire in the wheel well noise? That might be it?? Need to put something there to mark the tire if rubbing.
John took the Comet for a test drive and said it drove and felt ok!
We drove about 20 miles last night and i was very pleased with the ride and handling! Steering is pretty good and hope will be even better after another alignment next week.
A cruise in tonight in NE Ohio tonight. We will do some additional testing.
Found the right rear axle seal is leaking. Ordered a new one from NAPA.

Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[dmsfrr]

Originally Posted by sugarmaker

. . .

Chris and Cheryl

That is one thoroughly excellent looking car!
I regret not being able to look at this thread very much before, first had to get an extra thick bib to cover the keyboard.

[sugarmaker]

dmsrff,
Thanks for the compliments. I am the fourth owner at least? The guys before me need the credit! They cared for it for 58 years! Being 13 in 1965 I was not able to get my first car until 1970 and it was not a Comet. I liked this red car when I first saw it. It has never had a total restoration, just upgrades and improvements.
I am going to make a slight adjustment to the spring setting on the choke. Maybe it will flip to full choke and fast idle better?
We still have a rubbing or grinding sound in the rear area of the car more work to do there, figuring out what that noise is on a sharp slow right turn.
I did call Eaton Detroit Spring and thank them for their support on the updated Comet suspension.
Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[dmsfrr]

Originally Posted by sugarmaker

dmsrff,
Thanks for the compliments. I am the fourth owner at least? The guys before me need the credit! They cared for it for 58 years! Being 13 in 1965 I was not able to get my first car until 1970 and it was not a Comet. I liked this red car when I first saw it. It has never had a total restoration, just upgrades and improvements.
. . . .
Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

Back in '71 my second car, first new one, was a Comet. Still have a soft spot for them all these years later.
If I'd had something better than a 19 yr old brain at the time I should have bought a low mileage Comet from the mid 60's and saved money on the purchase price. But I already had a cheap used chevy and didn't want another project car that might or might not get me to work if I was inclined to take something apart for a 'cool factor' upgrade.

I didn't buy a Mustang cuz I figured I'd wreck it while driving it like an idiot.
The '71 Cougars were a larger body style I didn't like as much as the late 60's versions, and pricey.
I bought a '71 Comet very similar to this one. It had the factory optional trunk lip spoiler (not shown in these photos) and no large black stripe on the sides.
302 with a 3spd on the floor, and nicer looking than the same vintage Maverick they were based on. Sort of a sporty/performance version of an econo-box(?) about the time emission controls were hitting the market. It survived very well thru a few engine parts upgrades and a transmission change.

It's the one I most regret 'letting get away'. Possibly because it was my first Good fun car.
Sold it after 12-ish years and 130k+ (rust free) miles to buy a full-sized van that would more comfortably pull a trailer with my off-road car, both of which were eventually sold also.
.

[sugarmaker]

dmsfrr, folks,
I like the blue Comet!
Yesterday I pulled the right rear axle and replaced the axle seal. I boogered this seal up last year not using the correct size socket to drive it into its seat. Back together for a ride to get a root beer float with Cheryl. The car is driving pretty nice! Very little wheel movement while at 55 or 60 mph. Took it in for alignment after all the changing of the rear springs and it was still in spec. I am very happy with how it runs down the road. Suspension feels pretty solid compared to when we brought "lil" red home.
Have an appraisal coming on the Comet and the 32. That will be interesting.
Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[65Comet521]

I have a 65 Comet Caliente as well. It is a very special personal car. Have previously owned many mustangs, and also a 66 Comet Cyclone Gt. Fords and Merc's forever..........

[65Comet521]

Comet 5.jpg

c18.jpg

[65Comet521]

521 BBF cu.in, C6 tranny, 9 inch rear.

[sugarmaker]

65Comet521,
Wow awesome white Comet! You have some serious high performance items added to your car. I have trouble getting the old automatic choke to work on the 289!

Our neighbor getting some pictures with our car


Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[sugarmaker]

Folks,
We have had a local shop work on aligning the Comet front steering. The steering is improved. Maybe my expectations are to high for a 60 year old steering system. It does not drive like our newer 2016 Edge for sure. You have to kind of "drive" the Comet. I have not driven at more than 70 MPH.
We traveled into Erie yesterday and toured Presque Isle State Park. A beautiful 17 mile drive around the peninsula. The Comet got a lot of looks!
Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[sugarmaker]

Folks,
We have had a local shop work on aligning the Comet front steering. The steering is improved. Maybe my expectations are to high for a 60 year old steering system. It does not drive like our newer 2016 Edge for sure. You have to kind of "drive" the Comet. I have not driven at more than 70 MPH.
We traveled into Erie yesterday and toured Presque Isle State Park. A beautiful 17 mile drive around the peninsula. The Comet got a lot of looks!
Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[dmsfrr]

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Did they add extra caster to the alignment?
When I had the front end of my '55 rebuilt the shop recommended more positive caster than the factory setting. It helps the front tires self-center and track straight ahead more easily.
.

[sugarmaker]

dmsfrr, folks,
The alignment shop was able to remove shims and get about 2 degrees of Caster. Set at almost 0 degrees of Camber. Also the toe in was set at 3/16.
Would have liked to have more Caster but they said they could not get any more on the drivers side?
It drives better. Since I am not a good judge of how these actually should drive I think it is better and will do for a while.
Having some missing in the engine. Maybe carb, maybe points? We have driven the Comet about 7000 miles in a year and a half. Might need a tune up?
Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[sugarmaker]

Guys,
We have attended lots of car cruise in's this summer with the Comet. I am going to do some additional investigation on the control valve and the front tire pressure.
Weather has been great in our area. We went out to dinner with John and his wife last night. He drove their very nice 55 Ford. We did stop for ice cream after also.
Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[sugarmaker]

Folks,
Not much new here. Have most of the toys running for spring. Including Lil red!




Hope things are good in Mercury land!
Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[Jim.UT]

Thanks for all the pics! I had a 65 Ranchero with the same design console. I like your homemade emblem replacement.

As for brakes, mine had broken springs in the front and the MC went bad so I converted to disk in front with a dual MC. Much improved braking. I used a bracket made by Scarebird and off the shelf parts for the calipers, pads, hoses and rotors. Scarebird gives you a complete list of what to get to go with their bracket. Scarebird.com

[sugarmaker]

Jim,
I agree on the improved braking and potential safety upgrades on the brakes! Our weather has not been great and Friend John and I have been working on my 66 F100 project truck.
Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[Ford56]

I've said it before, and I'll say it again: I love the look of your Comet Caliente.

[sugarmaker]

Ford 56 and folks,
Had to go get some tools for the body work on the 66 floor pan. So I drove the Comet. I did not want to run good until completely warmed up. Driving on the road, well it still trys to weave a little. But I got several waves and thumbs up and a women at the gas station wanted to trade me her Honda.

Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[Ford56]

Originally Posted by sugarmaker

Ford 56 and folks,
Had to go get some tools for the body work on the 66 floor pan. So I drove the Comet. I did not want to run good until completely warmed up. Driving on the road, well it still trys to weave a little. But I got several waves and thumbs up and a women at the gas station wanted to trade me her Honda.

Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

luv it!

[sugarmaker]

56 and Ford folks,
We had guys pizza day at the shop. Weather still was not great. We tried to start the Comet, very hard to fire! Put in new points gaped them at .017 inch. No difference. Finally started with gas pedal to the floor. Ran rough. Friend Jim tried a smidge of ether and it loved it. So we siphoned the 6 gallons of gas from the tank. Added 2-1/2 of new fresh fuel. After a couple minutes it ran pretty smooth and started good!
Nice to have friends that help solve issues!
Regards,
Chris and Cheryl

[atch]

It's too bad there's no "like" button.