Abbreviations Abound
by Bob Wannall #3069, President, Board of Trustees

The internet is awash in initialisms – abbreviations that are strings of capital letters that are each pronounced: think EFI or MPH. A lot of them leave me scratching my head, especially if the writer forgets the definition.

This one had me stumped: IANAD. It means “I am not a doctor.” It’s a caveat used online by people who aren’t medical professionals but who are providing some health-related advice. “IANAD, but you probably should get that chromed NailHead valve cover growing out of your shoulder looked at.”

I see scores of questions on the internet and many Riviera aficionados respond with answers. But I also note that answers often vary. Is there an authoritative source for general, and especially, technical questions?

That’s where ROA fills those gaps. Every issue of the Riview lists technical advisors for each of the eight generations of Rivieras. They are volunteers with years of experience with wrenching, tweaking, repairing, and rebuilding our classic Rivs. They know their stuff. These are our doctors. Give them a call. Even better, come to the International Meet or a regional event and meet them and many others.

Also remember that in the “members only” section of our website (www.rivowners. org) is every issue of the Riview, all 38 years’ worth, along with an index of every article. Plus, ROA has a huge library of materials to help with research and even reprints.

Here’s a good one: NP. It means no problem. For us in the ROA, it’s members helping members

Not What ROA is All About
By Ray Knott #1, Director/Editor
ray@rivowners.org

In January, the Mecum Auction in Kissimmee, FL included a 1965 Riviera Gran Sport that sold for $150,000. It seems that there is an epidemic going on at the auctions with investors willing to take home an overpriced car. This applies to many models, not just Rivieras.

Photos that appeared online show a shiny black paint and clean black deluxe vinyl seats. Sure, the dual-four engine was detailed. It included several add-on options such as four-note horns, cruise, power antenna, rear seat armrests, radio reverb and wood steering wheel.

Mileage was not listed with no photos of the undercarriage. The photos indicated a repaint, as the cowl grilles were chrome, not black, and the factory wheels were gloss black rather than gray. The area around the front ashtray was badly chipped and scratched and the lower-left corner of the glove box door showed wear from being forced open, both indications of years of use. The interior wood appeared to be reproductions.

The reserve price was $50K, but four anxious bidders drove the price up to $150K. Some, especially owners of ’65 Gran Sports, may be elated to see these prices. But we know they are not realistic and, in my opinion, only tend to destroy the hobby by taking the affordability away from the average collector. The ROA exists for those who want to enjoy and drive an exceptional American car. Leave the outrageous bidding to those investors and speculators. They are not what the ROA is all about.