Barn Find/239ci Flathead V8/Convertible

1949 Ford Custom Convertible

NO TITLE-SOLD ON A BILL OF SALE ONLY

The 1949 Ford Custom V-8 (exc. Sedans) should be a Milestone car because of its adroit styling -- albeit in part the work of moonlighting Studebaker people -- and traditional V-8 performance (the engine was much improved this year, though the horsepower rating didn't change).

Can you imagine how great it must have felt in '49 to go for a summer evening drive with the top down in this Ford? Actually, I'd feel pretty incredible going for a ride in it today! Don't get me wrong, back when it was new it would have been fair nicer and cleaner. But boy would it feel great to climb into it, lower the top and just cruise! Here's your opportunity with this '49 barn find Custom Convertible.

Exterior
Not unlike those old pair of shoes you just cannot throw away because they still are comfortable to walk around in, this old custom convertible is well worn, but you just cannot put it down. Certainly, a barn find, certainly needs work, but only in there sense that you personally may want to upgrade it. It can run and drive as is with all tight 1949 patina. Bathed in tan paint has its nicks and scratches, dirt marks and slight rust, but panels are all there and fairly straight. The coming jet age front grille has the central located jet turbine smack dab in the center of the grille, and frames the bulbous hood, and side single headlight fenders. Chrome is a bit beat up, showing signs of rust, and dimpling as well as delimitation, but it all goes with the original charm of this car. On the steel slab sides is a trim spear which runs from the door's rearward to the oval tail lighted rear. A split front windshield backs up from the art deco “Spartan-esque” hood ornament. The canvas convertible top has long since rotted away, but still can be enjoyed in the warm weather, wind in the hair sun in your eyes, rolling along.

Interior
Seat coverings are tattered but reveal what may be the original plaid broadcloth seats, with white vinyl bolsters. The dash is all original shows crazing, paint scratches and soiling, but its original in light green painted metal. An original steering wheel is fronting this dash and sports a rarely seen stylized “F” badge in the center of the wheel. Floors are in need of repair due to invasive rust, and lower door panels are rusted underneath the panel coverings.

Drivetrain
Surprisingly clean for the overall condition, a 239ci V8 flathead engine in under the hood. This has a single 2-barrel carburetor on top, a 3-speed manual transmission complete with overdrive, and a 3.91 rear axle. Hoses are like new and engine looks in good condition. The engine was running about 2 years ago but has not been run since. It will turn over and is not seized.

Undercarriage
Plenty of surface rust, road dirt, grease and what's leftover of a long ago undercoating cover all surfaces underneath. The frame is sturdy and structurally sound, and just slight invasive rust has encroached into the rockers at the rear of each wheel well. Independent coil spring suspension is upfront, and leaf springs for the rear, as well as drum brakes bringing you to a stop on all 4 corners.

A well worn example, borderline barn find but working condition from 1949, all in convertible form. An ambitious restoration or a parts car, or just turn the key and drive to your heart's content and enjoy the sunshine.

NO TITLE-SOLD ON A BILL OF SALE ONLY
Please note, this vehicle does not come with a battery.