HISTORY: I purchased this Cougar XR7 in 2003 from Cascade Classics owner John Benoit. Mr. Benoit is a long time participant with winning entries in the large annual "Cougar Prowl" gathering at the XXX Drive-In at Issaquah Washington. He advised this XR7 was especially desireable for full restoration as it was a solid rust free car with no crash damage, was fully optioned, and was owned by a local older couple. The car was transported to Alabama for my friend John Farr of Cullman AL to restore. Mr. Farr is now on his second Shelby Mustang after having won National awards with his first. Mr. Farr completed the mechanical restoration and body prep and another expert completed the paint and body work in 2005. Mr. Farr is available to advise those with any questions as to the depth and detail of the mechanical restoration. The car was transported back to Seattle where I entered the Cougar Prowl Meet in 2006 and won the category. This was probably the most fun I've had with any of my collectible cars....but sadly was the last time I entered any of the Meets at the "XXX" with any of my cars. The Cougar was taken into Seattle to have it appraised by one of the more experienced local certified collectible car appraisers. I have included the two page report done by Mr. Walter Blair in November 2007. About two years earlier Mr. Blair had done an appraisal of a restored '68 Cuda 340 "S" which was subsequently sold for almost the appraised amount. Mr. Blair rated this XR7 at a "Number 1" on the "Old Cars Price Guide" rating system. Mr. Blair appraised the value of this XR7 to be $27,500. CONDITION: The Cougar developed a fuel system problem and a tank replacement was done in 2011. The car has been in my barn and was driven very little until about 2014. With some competent engine bay and other detailing, this would truly be Barrett-Jackson" quality. I simply do not have the garage space or time to do detailing or continue to own this beautiful car. If desired, Mr. Benoit might be able to do this...since that is his business (see his website). The carburetor was cleaned and reassembled, as was a new sending unit installed when the fuel system repair was made. I have only run "alcohol free" gas in the car for the last couple of years. The car starts easily and runs great now but could probably benefit by further adjustment. With carbs, careful adjustments will make the car can indeed "run like new". Since restoration the front headlight have become sluggish in opening. It's been two cold and raining in Seattle to work on these. They do close easily. This is probably a result of the cold weather here. RESTORATION: During restoration, the engine, transmission, and brakes were rebuilt by John Farr. He is by far (pun intended) the best mechanic I know and builds race engines for "gentlemen" racers on the retro- racing circuit. He, of course, races his own retro '68 Mustang with speeds up around 150 plus. The only rust was a small spot at the base of the rear window which was repaired with metal. DOT 5 brake fluid was used in the 4 piston Kelsey-Hayes disc brakes. All lights are working in the dash and in the overhead console. A new cover for the spare was obtained for the trunk. When the body work was done, all new rubber part, felts, gaskets, labels, etc. were used. A new power steering unit was installed. A new speaker was installed for the rare AM/FM radio. I'm sure everything was done right....since it cost me a lot of money. I have most of the receipts for the work/parts used. The wheels were changed as they just seem to "make the car". There is much more that is new....it's easier to say what isn't. I just can't think of anything that wasn't replaced. DRIVING: Except for the winter weather, this car would be a blast to drive across country. It tracks straight and true. If you wish, I can continue to store the car in my barn with a cover over it and a tarp underneath. The car may be inspected and driven at the address below. Please call and give me a heads up to arrange an inspection. I store collectible cars for the public in my big barn. Right now there is everything from a '37 Packard, '37 Dodge Coupe, to a '48 Hornet, all restored to show quality. In the Spring, you can come up and drive back across country. The A/C was converted to R134A but has leaked out over the last 11 years. DELIVERY: I have auto trailers and can transport the XR7 in the appropriate trailer for a reasonable fee. Please click on my "other items by seller" which includes these my trailers. I can transport the Coug about the end of March. You are very welcome to provide your own transport or pick it up locally. Please contact me for delivery schedule and charges: (256)734-5078. PAYMENT: Full payment must be made within 5 days of auction end unless other arrangement is made. Full refund is given if there is substantial misrepresentation. I know you will be happy with the car....it will only appreciate over time and you'll have a blast owning her. Garland Hall 22417 SE 4th St. Sammamish WA 98074 (256)620-5756
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