US barn find 1960 Cadillac Coupe DeVille neglected for 50 years successfully resurrected
- This 1960 Cadillac Coupe DeVille was found in the lean-to of a US barn
- It’s a piece of American automotive history on the road for the first time in 50 Years
- It can be yours for $20,000
Published on Jul 30, 2024 at 6:03 PM (UTC+4)
by Amelia Jean Hershman-Jones
Last updated on Jul 31, 2024 at 1:03 PM (UTC+4)
Edited by
Tom Wood
This 1960 Cadillac Coupe DeVille was a surprising gem of a barn find.
It had been abandoned in the lean-to of a barn since 1974.
However, when a YouTuber and repair shop owner bought it two years ago he gave the nugget of American automotive history a new lease of life.
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The 1960 Cadillac Coupe DeVille
It was bought for by YouTuber and automotive expert, Thomas Mortske, who had all the skills to bring it back to life.
After sitting in a barn lean-to for 50 years – it wasn’t immediately road-worthy.
Once out in daylight, it was clearly covered in rust and barn dust.
An initial power wash uncovered minor cosmetic damage including a cracked tail light and busted trim.
When the engine is inspected, the team discovers more rust and some stuck valves that need to be replaced.
The team removed the spark plugs, oiled the cylinders, and cleaned out the dirt, noticing previous amateur repairs and modifications to the engine bay before they begin to reassemble it.
They install new rings, bearings, and a camshaft, ensuring all components are fitted and cleaned to perfection.
Issues with the transmission, exhaust system, break, master cylinder, and brake lines must all be addressed.
Inside the cabin, the interior is cleaned and prepped for new parts and carpet.
After all that, the team fires up the engine with a smooth and comfortable ride indicative of the Cadillac Coupe DeVille’s reputation for luxury and comfort.
Like it?
Well, you’re in luck – because it can be yours for $20,000.
Other important US barn finds
In the past, a ‘barn find’ was usually stumbled upon by pure chance.
Today, content creators and car enthusiasts alike eagerly seek them out.
Not unlike the Cadillac, this 1958 Chevrolet Impala is missing several parts but its original and working engine made it a great barn find.
Meanwhile, this secret warehouse that was hidden from the public hid rare Ford Mustangs and Shelbys inside.
Another gem is this Aston Martin DB6 barn find that is not just stunning but exceptionally rare.
London-based Amelia cut her journalistic teeth covering all things lifestyle, wellness and luxury in the UK capital. Fast-forward a decade and the experienced content creator and editor has put pen to paper for glossy magazines, busy newsrooms and coveted brands. When her OOO is on you can find her spending quality time with her young family, in the gym or exploring the city she loves.
