ABOVE:  Ken Madden’s prized 1997 Lincoln Town Car frolicking in a field of fresh flora.

By Ken Madden

Originally published in the March-April 2025 Lincoln and Continental Comments magazine (Issue # 383)

Photos courtesy of the author.

Let me tell you what brought me to Lincolns. Lincoln builds cars for the affluent and successful members of our great country. These are people who have worked all their lives, building estates worthy of leaving a legacy for the children to enjoy for generations. A  Lincoln was, and still is, a big part of that.

On the other side of the tracks was me, in 1995. I was broke and soon to be a dad. Unmarried and working at Wizard Custom Studios in Andover, Minnesota. We restored cars and built very cool custom cars as well as motorcycles. At the time, I was driving a 1968 Ford Ranchero GT with a four-speed and a 302! It sounds awesome, but this was the epitome of a beater.

So, I had no money and needed a better and safer way to haul around my newborn daughter. Alas, a friend of the shop had a car for me- a 1982 Lincoln Town Car. It was brown with a tan velour interior and was rusty, but it ran and drove perfectly…almost.

I was in New Hope, Minnesota, and the car was in Ripon, Wisconsin, about five hours away. Here is the “almost” part. The exhaust was gone from the driver’s seat back. Let’s just say it was a rather loud ride back, but for $350, I was not complaining! I drove that poor old girl for many years, and all I ever needed to fix were rust-related things like all the brake lines.

Sometimes, you look back on the things you did in your youth and wonder how you survived. Consider the gas lines on a car exposed to many salty upper Midwest winters. It was -15 degrees F, and I needed to replace the high-pressure line from the tank, along the frame to the engine, in the driveway. So I found a bunch of cardboard, placed it around the bottom of the car to stop the wind, pointed a kerosene torpedo heater under the car, and went to work. How that didn’t explode is truly an act of the almighty God!

All that said, what a great car! I was hooked. In 1997, my father retired and bought a brand-new black Town Car. I instantly told him that if he ever wanted to sell it, I would get first dibs, knowing full well that he would have it for many years. That was good, because I had no way to buy that car for years.

In 2015, he called and asked if I still wanted “that old Lincoln,” as he had bought a newer 2007 Town Car that caught his eye one day. Of course, I jumped at the chance. He gave me the car with the caveat that he would get half of the proceeds if I sold it. He knew I would never sell it. Over the years, we drove the 1997 Town Car from Wisconsin to Arizona, where my folks live many times. He passed away in October 2022, knowing his prized car was in good hands.

Dad’s Town Car is how the LCOC found me. I attended a couple of our shows over the years, and finally, in 2023, I joined up! To be honest, I didn’t think the Club would be as accepting as they all are! I mean, this ’97 isn’t a 1956 Continental Mark II or a 12-cylinder Continental. It’s just a ’90s Lincoln. Heck, they made a ton of these! But there I was, and the Club has been so welcoming, treating me like they have known me for decades.

I wanted to give back somehow. I helped at shows and co-admined the Northstar Region’s Facebook page gladly, but wanted to do more.

I am, first and foremost, an artist. I have an unrelenting passion for cars, so automotive art is my focus. I have done hundreds of portraits of some great cars of all makes and models. If you read this far and are interested, take a look at my website, maddkstudio.com. What you will see is 40 years of practice and love for the craft of illustration. Then it hit me- I can do an original painting of the “Best of Show” winner at our annual Northstar Region show in Hugo, Minnesota!

This past year’s winner was a spectacular 1948 Continental. What a car! So, I created a 16″ x 20″ acrylic painting on stretched canvas. And I felt like I at least made one man’s day with something very special, more than a nice trophy and handshake. This is something that tells a story. A painting spurs conversation and evokes memories of great and not-so-great times. It tells the story of a life just from an image.

I write this to tell everyone who reads this that so often, a car club is just a car club. I’ve been in dozens of them over the years. When you find a club like the LCOC, where fascinating folks with similar interests and hobbies meet, you also find a community that stands the test of time.

Speaking of time, I want YOU to take the time to talk to the younger Lincoln enthusiasts and encourage them to join our merry band of highway cruising, luxury riding, freedom machines. I am relatively new to the LCOC, and finding a home in the car world is priceless, so let’s spread the word!

INSET ABOVE:  The artist’s 1997 Town Car on canvas.The author created this stunning painting of the “Best of Show” winner at the Northstar Region’s show in Hugo, Minnesota.

ABOVE:  The author’s ‘97 Town Car in repose.

Ken Madden is an LCOC member from Baldwin, Wisconsin.

ABOVE:  This 1939 Lincoln-Zephyr Coupe, owned by Rich Atwell, occupied a premier location in the dealership.

By Pat Corbett

Originally published in the March-April 2025 Lincoln and Continental Comments magazine (Issue # 383)

Photos courtesy of the author.

The Grand Re-Opening celebration of North Park Lincoln, located at 9207 San Pedro Avenue in San Antonio, was held on Thursday evening, Jan. 16, 2025, and was a delight for all who attended. Texas weather blessed the event with mild dry temperatures in the mid-60s to lows in the 50s.

We showcased the North Park Lincoln Dominion store’s Grand Opening in Comments Issue 361 (July-August 2021). The San Pedro store event coincided with the LCOC National Board Meeting at the Crown Plaza Hotel just up the highway. Jackie Gleason, a staunch Lincoln owner, would have responded to this event with, “How sweet it is!” I will comment using an old Lincoln advertising slogan, “Nothing could be finer!” 

Chad Binder, the general manager of North Park Lincoln at Dominion, extended an invitation to the LCOC National Board to join the 400-plus attendees in an event celebrating the latest remodel of the over-50-year family-owned Lincoln dealership location. Several open bars and heavy hors d’oeuvre lineups served the masses in grand fashion. I thought half-inch slabs of pork loin were an entrée to a full course meal and not a snack, but this is Texas, where everything is bigger. Even the ice cubes used to serve drinks were embedded with the Lincoln star. No detail was left untouched, and no expense was spared.

The 2025 Navigator prototype was on display, giving attendees a sneak peek at the latest innovations in automotive transportation. The full dash display of water falling with audio support, the full body-massaging seats, and a burst of aroma therapy essential oils allow the owner to give up their spa membership. The vehicle gives new meaning to roadside rest area.

ABOVE: Tables were set with care at North Park Lincoln, with room for guests aplenty from far and near.

Local Lincoln owners contributed their pristine cars for display. Scott Aronstein, Texas Gulf Coast Director, shipped his black-on-black 1963 Continental Convertible from Houston, which occupied a prominent corner in the air-conditioned owner delivery area. A unique feature of this dealership, this area is where the car is presented to the new owner. They are thoroughly educated in all the facets of their new ride before being handed the keys. Then, the dealership representative watches the new owners drive off into the sunset. Service to the Lincoln owner is just one reason North Park Lincoln has been the #1 Retail Dealer in the United States for several consecutive years, as well as consecutive winner, year after year, of the prestigious President’s Award for dealership excellence in many areas.

David Boullosa shared his impeccable 1979 Town Car, which is his daily driver.

ABOVE: Shrimp cocktail and Lincolns…nothing could be finer.

BELOW:  A meeting of the minds.  Members of the LCOC Board of Directors enjoy the grand reopening.

Being one of the largest land barges in American automotive history, it garnered lots of attention from the guests. This car is in 100-point condition. David also used this Lincoln to transport LCOC members between the event and the hotel.

Showcasing the main car showroom, a 1939 Lincoln-Zephyr Coupe, owned by Rich Atwell from Fredericksburg, Texas, is a flagship example of automotive craftsmanship and styling illustrating the rich history Lincoln has created over its more than 100-year history.

Upon arrival, we were greeted by the Mariachi band, Los Galleros, with servers presenting shrimp cocktails to whet your appetite. Valet service whisked away your vehicle for safe parking in their multi-story parking garage. Entering the open-air service bay, transformed into a cocktail lounge, the guests were greeted by servers treating them like dignitaries at a presidential inauguration. There, the band, Finding Friday, entertained the guests with smooth rock and other familiar and popular dance music.

Mr. Kahlig delivered a special address and introduced several Lincoln executives, including Diane Craig, Lincoln Motor Company president. Also attending were the Director of Lincoln North America, Heidi Young; Head of Lincoln Sales, Client Experience, Service and Market Representation, Mike DeYoung; Head of U.S. Lincoln Retail Network Shawn McDermott, and Lorraine Alston, Central Market Area regional manager.

ABOVE:  Pat Corbett, Dan Stahle, and Scott Aronstein quench their collective thirst at North Park Lincoln.

BELOW:   Dedicating this place.  A crucifix is placed in a special location in the showroom.

Afterward, as in all his dealerships, the new facility was blessed by Father Norman Ermis of St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church. A crucifix was placed in a prominent location in the sales showroom. Following this special moment, the ribbon cutting featured Ms. Craig with Mr. Kahlig and other dignitaries officially opening the new facility. Ms. Craig mingled with the crowd while giving photo opportunities to those wishing for a photo.

All in all, the night was a special event that will be remembered for many years to come. The genuine hospitality, the warmth extended by the staff and its management, and the hard work of General Manager Diego Iturbe, which is just an extension of the relationship the dealership has with its customers, are just a few of the reasons why attendees will think fondly of this evening for years to come. When dealing with North Park Lincoln, you become part of the family, not just another customer.

ABOVE:  Scott Aronstein’s 1963 Lincoln Continental convertible.

BELOW:  Time to celebrate! LCOC Board Members and Lincoln CIPs share a joyous moment.  (Photo courtesy of Carl Villone.)

Pat Corbett is an LCOC member from Manchaca, Texas.

ABOVE: The first time many Hoosier Region members met “Buttercup” was at the 2021 Annual Meeting at the Hilltop Restaurant near Spencer, Indiana.  (Photo courtesy of Jeff Shively.)

By Charlie & Becky Griffith

Originally published in the January/February 2025 Lincoln and Continental Comments magazine (Issue # 382)

ABOVE:  Photo by Becky Griffith

Charlie and Becky Griffith, LCOC members from Indianapolis, attended with their 1966 Lincoln Continental Coupe named “Buttercup.” The rare coupe was well-received by many of the spectators. Fellow Hoosier Region member George Odom of Fishers, Indiana, brought his 1946 Lincoln Continental Cabriolet. Unfortunately, the authors didn’t get a chance to meet up with Mr. Odom. This was a fun event, and the proceeds go to a great cause. We hope that we can stir up more interest for next year.

Charlie & Becky Griffith are LCOC members from Indianapolis, Indiana.

ABOVE: Many of us have found ourselves in this situation…a former automobile now a two-ton jigsaw puzzle.  But there is hope!

By Pat Corbett

Originally published in the September-October 2024 Lincoln and Continental Comments magazine (Issue # 380)

Before I delve into the subject matter, let’s define “repair” and “restore” as it pertains to working on the motor car. Repair in this article refers to replacing a broken or damaged part to make the car function as designed. Restore or restoration will mean to bring back to a former condition or to make new again. Their meanings sound very similar, but in reality, there is a world of difference between the two.

The Lincoln & Continental Owners Club was founded to be dedicated to the preservation and restoration of all Lincolns, Lincoln Continentals, and Continentals. There’s that word again: restoration. But do you truly grasp what that entails?

For the daily user of the modern automobile, maintenance and repair are generally considered to be the cost of ownership. if you drive a car long enough, and that would be past its warranty period, things break. Engineered obsolescence raises its ugly head, and something fails to function. When this occurs, the next step is to identify the problem, get the part or parts, and change out the broken one. Today, that probably requires a code reader or computer to display codes or other information to direct the technician as to what to do. Whether we do it ourselves or take it to a mechanic, we are all familiar with that process.

The author is no different from you, the reader. Our passion for the Lincoln motorcar is evident by our membership in LCOC, as well as many social media sites focusing on one particular style or model. That brings me to the crux of the matter. Having done major restoration work on a 1969 Continental, a 1970 Mark III, a 1983 Mark VI Pucci Edition, a 1973 Mark IV, a 1971 Chevy Impala Convertible, and now a 1977 Corvette, I have learned some things to pass on to the newcomer in the fabulous world or car restoration. In so many ways, I am still a newcomer after dabbling in it for only the last 15 years or so.

Restoration of any car older than 25 years is not for the feint of heart. Especially if, like me, you like doing your own work. You are the focus of this column: the do-it-yourselfer. For some cars like the Corvette, aftermarket suppliers are on every corner, with everything needed to build a Corvette from the ground up. Not so with the Lincoln of yesteryear. It has to do with the numbers in production and, of course, the interest in the particular marque. Too many enthusiasts with a love for the beauty of the classic Lincoln let emotion get ahead of them in the purchase of their dream car, only later to find that parts are hard to find in some cases, and the work of restoration is a formidable task beyond their knowledge and capability to stick to it. Did I mention the lots of spare cash you can assign to the project? Let’s just go with the idea that you are a gearhead at heart with some money to spend.

The last thing this author wants to do is dissuade anyone from taking on the mantra of the LCOC. But to do so, you should know a few things going in if it’s your first adventure. The car of your dreams was built at least 30 years ago when we consider the popularity of the ‘90s Town Cars, many of which are daily drivers among us Lincoln aficionados.

Regardless of the decade, mechanics from that era are few and far between. The first and most important thing when you get the car in your garage is to purchase the authentic Ford service manual, wiring diagrams, and, in some cases, vacuum diagrams. Google and eBay will guide you to them. It’s the best money you can spend. The manual describes how many things work and takes you through a step-by-step process to replace many parts, beginning with “disconnect the negative battery cable.” But be careful. I have found some directives are too overzealous, so study the directives carefully. For example, the procedure for replacing the crank position sensor on a ‘90s Town Car tells the mechanic to “remove” the A/C compressor. Not so! The compressor can be moved to the side enough to replace the sensor and then simply bolt it back in place.

ABOVE: Restoring a vintage Lincoln, whether you do it yourself or hand it off to the pros, can often be a tedious process. The perfect paint job requires hours of sanding to get the surface right.

Today’s YouTube videos, when paired with your manual, allow you to watch the process before tackling it yourself. I highly recommend videos prepared by mechanics in certified shops that do the work regularly. Shade tree mechanic videos can offer shady advice. A mechanic may be required, considering the tools and task complexity. An example would be dropping the steering wheel and pulling the entire dash assembly onto the front seat to replace a $35 blend door actuator in the ‘80s and ‘90s Town Cars. You would think that in 20 years, they would improve that repair process. Nope!

The next best thing you can do is to develop your brain-trust circle of vintage mechanics. Most of the mechanics who serviced these cruisers when they were new have long since retired or may have even passed away. This is where club membership with like-minded people pays off. Some of these mechanics have a love for these classics, too, and getting to know them can be most beneficial to your quest.

I mentioned the factory service manuals and YouTube videos as a guideline for repairing and restoring the classic. This is true, but there is another element brought to you by these gray-haired gearheads: the “art of mechanicing.” There are unique techniques for doing certain tasks and an unwritten order that should be followed in some cases that are not printed in any manuals. If you don’t follow a prescribed practice, then possible premature failure will arise. For example, if you are familiar with the 460 CID engine and replace a water pump, it is imperative to put gray gasket compound on the threads of the bolts to prevent the coolant from leaking into the block and mixing with the engine oil.

The advice here should be clear. Surround yourself with experienced people who know your car and its quirks, and you won’t be disappointed. These folks are generally happy to share their experience and wisdom with you as we carry on the American tradition of classic car restoration or even simple repair. Some still work for money, and I can tell you it is good money spent considering some of the special tools needed they have hidden away in their tool chest collecting dust.

Dangers are lurking in a few places that can maim you. The scissor action of the power window regulators in 1960s and 1970s Lincolns must be supported securely, considering that when you remove the electric motor, the heavy coil spring can collapse the regulator, catching your fingers and relieving you of their function. The same thing applies to working on suspension control arms. Using a spring depressor can be dicey at best, considering the potentially catastrophic results of a coil spring unleashing itself against human frailty. Many tasks require literally a bigger hammer with forces applied that may seem unnatural to the inexperienced DIYer but are required nonetheless.

If you are lucky, some wise mentors will join you to tackle a more invasive task or project. I would not have rebuilt my first Lincoln engine without the oversight of an experienced veteran mechanic guiding me and, in some cases, assisting where four hands are required to do the job correctly.

By delving into the world of auto restoration, you are taking a major step into a potentially satisfying as well as disastrous world of seemingly never-ending work. Go into it with your eyes open and ears hearing. Not many things are as gratifying as taking a senior Lincoln struggling to survive and turning it into a road-worthy restoration of its former self. You have to forget about the hundreds of hours dedicated to the task, the ingenuity required to improvise where off-the-shelf replacement is unheard of, or two to three times the budget you initially set forth for the project. The deeper you dig into these road warriors of yesteryear, the more you find to work on. Keep your eye on the goal, the end product. You can always sell your project and may even make a few bucks at the end of the day. However, no one can ever pay you for the self-satisfaction gained in making something new again and showing it to the world as you cruise down the highway. Back in the day, the journey was just as important as getting there. It was part of the fabric of the American dream. Your work restoring your dream car of yesteryear is an important contribution to keeping the idea of the great American road trip alive and well.

BELOW:  The effort is worth it. Transforming a rusted, deteriorated assemblage of parts back into a beautiful automobile can be incredibly rewarding.

NOTE: Images of 1961, 1962, and 1963 Lincolns from the sales brochures and The Continental Magazine were used to illustrate this article. Photos courtesy of Ford Motor Co.

Pat Corbett is an LCOC member from Manchaca, Texas.