1947 Desoto Cars Described

1947 DESOTO CARS DESCRIBED

1947 DESOTO - GENERAL: There were virtually no changes in the 1947 DeSoto models. Prices for DeLuxe series were changed and a weight increase of a few pounds was registered. Whitewall tires were reintroduced as an option after April 1, 1947. As in 1946. burl and grain garnish moldings, large full vision steering wheels and chrome trim were found in the interior. The body structure was all-steel, a longtime Chrysler Corporation characteristic. Body insulation included the interior structure of the body, roof, side panels, floor, cowl and trunk. "Safe Guard" hydraulic brakes and a permanent "Oilite" fuel tank filter were also standard. Rustproofing now protected the interior structure of the body. Inside. A speedometer that changed colors in increments: green to 39 mph, amber to 50 mph and red at higher speeds. All other standard equipment features remained as in the 1946 Models.

1947 DELUXE SERIES S11-S (6-Cylinder): Identification of the DeLuxe models was provided by nameplates found on the sides of the hood. Standard equipment on DeLuxes included dual sun visors, dual two-speed electric wipers, directional signals with parking brake light, cigar lighter, stainless steel trim rings, illuminated glove box with lock, dual outside door locks, map light, counter balanced luggage compartment lid, illuminated luggage compartment, right and left front door arm rests, interior door locks and bumper guards front and rear.

1947 CUSTOM SERIES S11-C (6-Cylinder): Custom models were identified by the nameplates on the sides of the hood. Custom models were indiscernible from their 1946 counterparts. Custom models were DeLuxes with upgraded trim and interior appointments. Standard equipment on Customs included white plastic trim rings (offered prior to introduction of white sidewall tires late in the year), plastic steering wheel, foam rubber seat cushions and tailored front carpets. Three colors of broadcloth upholstery were available: green, blue, and tan. The convertible coupe had Bedford cord and leather in various colors. As in 1946, 9 passenger Suburbans (taxi), 7-passenger Sedans and Limousines sat on the special 139.5" wheelbase chassis. These long-wheelbase models, unique to the Custom Series, were built on the stretched 139.5" platform. The front compartment was equipped with tailored carpets and chrome plated window sashes. Front seat cushions included a foam rubber pad. Interior trim and seating varied in each of these models.

MODEL/ENGINE I.D. DATA:

 DeLuxe serial numbers. DeLuxe serial numbers began with 6172863. Taxi serial were from 5102501 to 5105413. Engine numbers ran from S11-68558 and were sequentially interspersed with Customs.  Custom serial numbers. Custom Serial numbers ran from 5784001 to 5825784. Engine numbers started with M5383-100001. Engine numbers ran from S11-68558 and were sequentially interspersed with DeLuxes. Serial number codes were on the left front door hinge pillar post. Motor numbers were located on the left side of the block below cylinder head between first and second cylinders.

BODY PAINT CODE/COLORS:

 1 Military Blue  2 Saint Clair Blue  3 Newport Blue  4 Heather Green  5 Polo Green  6 Meadow Green  7 Dove Gray  8 Gunmetal  9 Catalina Tan  16 Regal Maroon  17 Sumac Red  19 Spice Brown  20 Palace Spice Brown

DESOTO ENGINES:

 DeLuxe and Custom Series Standard Engine. Cast iron block. Displacement: 236.7 cubic inches. Bore and stroke: 3.438" x 4.25". Compression ratio: 6.6:1. Horsepower: 109 @ 3600 RPM. Torque: 200 @ 1600 RPM. Four main bearings. Solid valve lifters. Carburetors: 1-barrel Ball and Ball ELI or EX3R.

CHASSIS:

 Wheelbase: Long wheelbase models - 139.5". Standard wheelbase models - 121.5".  Overall length: Long wheelbase models - 225.25” Standard models - 207.25".  Overall width: All models – 78.625".  Tires: Long wheelbase cars - 6.50 x 16 until car number 5802797, then - 7.00 x 15. Short wheelbase cars - 6.50 x 15. Whitewalls were available in the Spring of 1947.

POWERTRAIN OPTIONS:

 DeLuxe: Three-speed manual transmission standard with Fluid Drive optional.  Custom: "Fluid Drive" with "Tip Toe Shift" four-speed was standard.

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SIGNIFICANT OPTIONS:

 Cigar Lighter  Fluid Drive (Optional DeLuxe)  Heater  Heater/Defroster  Tip Toe Shift (Optional DeLuxe)

HISTORICAL BACKGROUND: Whitewall tires were reintroduced as an option after April 1, 1947.

PRODUCTION: Production totals for 1946, 1947, 1948 and early (first-series) 1949 models were recorded as a single total, with no model year breakout available. The totals shown have been extrapolated by a review of serial numbers. Serial numbers are recommended to differentiate between model years.

See the attached chart for the estimated model breakout.

CAR IMAGES

The 1947 DeSoto Custom 4-Door Sedan was quite similar to the Seven Passenger model except it rode on the shorter 121.5" wheelbase. It was identical to the Deluxe version except for trim.

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CAR IMAGES Continued

The 1947 DeSoto Convertibles were only available in the Custom line.

The 1947 DeSoto Custom Seven Passenger Sedan sat on the 139.5" long wheelbase. The Limousine and Suburban were identical except for interior trim.

The 1947 DeSoto Custom Brougham was a semi-fastback. This was identical to the Deluxe model except for trim. and where it was called merely "2-door sedan".

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CAR IMAGES Continued

The 1947 DeSoto Custom Club Coupe. This was identical to the Deluxe except for trim.

The 1947 DeSoto 3-Passenger Coupe was only available in that line.