For decades, the use of DOT 5 Silicone brake fluid has been surrounded by "mystique" and misinformation. Did you know that Avanti Motors was the first American OEM to install silicone fluid in production cars starting in 1975? In this technical deep-dive, Dan Booth uses original Dow Corning factory data and his 45 years of service experience to debunk common myths regarding fluid compatibility.

Have you noticed a series of unusual holes drilled into the inner fenders of your 1970s Avanti? Often called "Bird House Holes," these were a unique factory attempt by Avanti Motors to lower under-hood temperatures. In this article, Dan Booth explores the history of this design—from the early "progressive" hole sizes to the standardized four-hole pattern used after 1973.

Have you ever experienced a mysterious "hammering" sound coming from the rear of your Avanti during acceleration or braking? This is often caused by a broken front mounting stud on the frame bracket for the rear axle radius rod. While many mechanics assume this requires a complex frame repair, Avanti Motors actually engineered a specific solution.

How can a man who purchased his Avanti brand new in 1963 still learn a factory secret 58 years later? In this fascinating case study, Dan Booth explores the history of Avanti R-4009, a Turquoise Supercharged 4-Speed. By cross-referencing the original Build Sheet, Inspection Tickets, and Dealer Cost Invoice, Dan uncovers a rare "Code 99" tag: the "Advance the Market Campaign."

Can a car cause a 25-year grudge? In one of the most unusual tales in the Avanti community, Dan Booth shares a letter regarding the history of Avanti 63R4302. This wasn't just any 1963 Studebaker; it was originally a display car at the Turin Auto Show in Italy, gifted to an Italian artist by her well-to-do husband and shipped to the USA in crates.

Looking to sharpen your Avanti’s handling and eliminate body roll? In this technical guide, Dan Booth explores the history of factory stabilizer bars from 1963 through 1985. Discover why the "bigger is better" philosophy of the 1983 Anniversary Edition led to unexpected rattles and how Avanti Motors engineered a 7/8" solution that provides the perfect balance of performance and comfort.

Are your Avanti's kick panels looking ragged or rusty? Specialist Dan Booth identifies one of the most frequently ignored trim pieces on 1963–1985 models: the cowl kick pad molding (Part #1347528x61). Originally made of painted steel, these vertical retainers are magnets for moisture and foot-traffic damage

Did you know there were actually three different factory designs for the Avanti rear license plate bracket? Many restorers struggle to find the correct fitment, especially for the transitional 1983–1985 models. In this guide, Dan Booth decodes the factory changes that occurred when backup lights moved from the trunk lid to the tail pan.

Do you notice a strong gasoline odor inside your Avanti, especially after a full fill-up? This isn't just an annoyance—it’s a critical safety issue. In this comprehensive guide, Dan Booth explores the history of the Avanti fuel system and the specific structural failures that plague 1977–1985 models.

Have you ever wondered what’s hidden in the unreachable corners of your Avanti? While most owners find dust and old gum wrappers, one owner discovered something far more startling: a loaded .32 caliber handgun.

Are you tired of the "decades of neglect" and water damage caused by a leaking factory sunroof or moonroof? For many 1971–1985 Avantis, the original steel housings have rusted or separated from the fiberglass, making traditional re-bonding nearly impossible.

In this masterclass restoration guide, Dan Booth details the definitive way to solve the problem for good: deleting the opening entirely by installing a New Original Stock (NOS) Roof Skin #1350250.

Imagine pulling into a busy intersection and suddenly having zero accelerator response. For one Avanti owner, this nightmare became a reality when a 50-year-old ball stud simply popped out of its socket. In this critical safety guide, Dan Booth explains why the original 1963–1980 accelerator linkage rods are a "ticking time bomb" for drivers.

Are you 100% sure your brake lights work every time you hit the pedal? The original hydraulic pressure switches (Part #666858) used on 1963–1973 Studebaker Avantis and Avanti IIs are notorious for short life expectancies and heat-related failures.

Following our initial safety alert regarding the 60-year-old rubber steering rag joints, Avanti owners across the country began inspecting their own cars. The results were startling. In this follow-up, Dan Booth shares the feedback from readers who discovered their steering was "holding on by a thread."

Are your Avanti's brakes constantly "on" or wearing out pads prematurely? The culprit might be a hidden mismatch between your power brake booster and master cylinder. In this guide, Dan Booth reveals a common factory oversight involving the reach rod end.

If you own or drive a 1984 or 1985 Avanti, your front wheels could be at risk of coming off while driving. Specialist Dan Booth reveals the hidden history of a dangerous factory oversight involving the one-inch aluminum wheel spacers used during the Stephen Blake production era.

Can an Avanti be born without a radio? While most enthusiasts view the radio as a standard fixture, Dan Booth uncovers the fascinating history of the "Radio Delete" option through the lens of a unique 1963 Gold Avanti (63R-4301).

Replacing a leaking A/C evaporator core in an Avanti is traditionally a nightmare job requiring the removal of the entire dashboard or the complete heater assembly. In this technical guide, Dan Booth shares the "unthinkable" shortcut he has used for over 40 years: a strategic diagonal cut to the fiberglass console that makes this repair significantly easier and faster.

Does your Avanti suffer from the dreaded "leaky roof" reputation? While many believe factory sunroofs are destined to leak, specialist Dan Booth reveals the unknown facts behind the American Sunroof and Sky Top systems used from 1971 to 1985. Properly maintained, these units were originally trouble-free—and they can be again.

Did you know that most 1974–1983 Avantis are pre-wired for fog lights right from the factory, even if the option wasn't chosen? In this technical guide, Dan Booth traces the history of Avanti Motors' auxiliary lighting. From the original $50 "Do-Ray" option in 1967 to the iconic Lucas, Cibie, and Hella lamps used throughout the Altman and Newman eras, learn how to identify the correct brand for your specific year.