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In 1953 the "Nailhead V8 " was introduced, so called because
of its small valves and vertical layout. The Nailhead is easily
recognisable by its nearly vertical valve covers, held down by two
bolts. Buick used this design between '53 and '66, in displacements
of 322, 364, 401, and 425 cubic inches. Its lightweight, compact
size and high-rev ability made it popular among street-rodders and
racers. In 1955-56 Buick was on par with other auto manufacturers,
the 322 in '55 was rated at 236hp, and 255hp in '56. In 1957, Buick
upped the ante, punching the engine out to 364ci, in the '57 century,
300hp was attained. In 1959, the size was bored out even further
to 401ci, which gave 325hp. The last incarnation of the Nailhead
came in 1963, with the 425ci used in the Wildcat and Super Wildcat
delivering 360hp of pure Buick grunt.
Hopefully as time goes by the Nailhead Buicks Across Britain register
will grow to incorporate all Nailhead engine Buicks, years 1953
to 1966. For the present time I will concentrate on `57 to `60.
The reasons for setting up the register were to help owners keep
in contact with each other, sharing knowledge of different aspects
of keeping a classic car on the road. These cover various subjects
such as where to find spares, addresses of specialists that members
have used and recommended, and services that might be of use. I
keep a record of cars for sale, so I can put a prospective purchaser
in contact with a suitable vehicle.
Setting up the register has been harder than I first expected. Getting
owners to make them selves known, even if the service you provide
is free to Buick Club members, takes time. I thought that first
getting an e-mail address ready, then publicizing the register in
Classic American magazine would be enough. A few have contacted
me this way but most have been found by contacting owners direct
when they have advertised their vehicle for sale, or locating them
at the various shows around the country. I regularly contribute
to the Motorvatin' USA magazine with features on Buick Club members'
cars manufactured between these years.
So '57 to '60 model owners wanting to stand up and be counted, join
the club, you can complete and print off a membership form on this
site, see right-hand column under Services. Or send an email with
your full name and postal address for membership form.
Email: nailhead@buickclub.co.uk
My '58 Buick Roadmaster - Ian Scott
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