Traded Pontiac Tempest for a 1972 Pontiac Catalina.

It had about 3,000 miles, was used at the Greater Milwaukee Golf Open to transfer golfers to and from the airport.

Performed engine maintenance after mileage was getting up there, approaching 200,000.  I was concerned about the timing chain wearing out and valves needing attention.

This was in the days when leaded gas was used.  The lead served as a lubricant for the valves.  After leaded gas was made illegal, the engine manufactures were forced to use more expensive valve and valve seat material.  Since then valves have not been an issue.

I took it apart, replaced the timing chain and took the head's in for refurbishing.  I did not do a good job putting it back together (failed to retorque the head bolts).  After a few weeks one of the head gaskets started leaking.  Retorqued the head bolts and it was better but continued to weaken power in two cylinders.  Later gave Catalina to Cathy and Scott.  They drove it for a while and the transmission failed.  It was pretty much rusted out and was junked.