THE CLUB FOR ENTHUSIASTS OF ALL AMERICAN VEHICLES UK £3.50 USA $5.50 Multicylinder www.pre50aac.com November / December 2020 - Vol 54-6 STOP PRESS http://www.pre50aac.com/ The password for access to the Members TORQUETORQUE BACK BACK section of the web site is now I hope this issue of Multicylinder the designation the U.S. Army gave 1962Chevrolet finds you in good health, with this to the quarter-ton front-wheel drive The user id stays the same at second wave of COVID-19 it’s even reconnaissance car. [email protected] more poignant than ever to stay in The first prototype “Jeep” was touch with family and friends during developed by Bantam and designed these continued unprecedented in just 18-hours by Karl Probst. times. Hopefully a vaccine will be During WW II soldiers in some units developed and approved to finally called it “Bantams” after the original Front Cover: lead us back to normality very soon. manufacturer/designer. 1963 Mercurys During the months of August and An U.S. WW II veteran “Jack Keenan” Back Cover: September I’ve been actively seeking wrote that they were originally 1963 Mercurys my next daily mode of transport, called “Peeps” not “Jeeps” and the with my ever creaking knees and Dodge command car was nicknamed vulnerable back I’ve succumbed “Beep”, whilst the amphibious Jeep to the ever increasing masses and version was called “Seep”. decided to opt for an SUV. I can hear According to Colonel A.W. Herrington Later on a U.S Army soldier you say “you’re spoilt for choice; the the name was used in Oklahoma as converted the word “Jeep” into an UK market is saturated with them”. early as 1934 to designate a truck acronym “Just Enough Essential Well once I dismissed the Japanese, fitted with special equipment for Parts” Chinese and Korean it narrowed it drilling wells. Other vehicles had the In 1936 the popular comic strip down significantly and on the 16th same name including Minneapolis- Popeye by E.C. Segar unveiled September I took the plunge and Moline Power Implement Co., which “Eugene the Jeep” who was a small, purchased a new Jeep Compass produced an agricultural tractor in impish-looking animal that had the Limited 4x4 automatic. 1943 called “Jeep”. ability to go just about anywhere. The Jeep has had a chequered history Another source, Steven J. Zaloga’s The reference to “Eugene the Jeep” This photo was in taken in Boston during the 1950's with a variety of owners, initially book “Jeeps 1941-45”claims that promoted a 23rd April 1944 editorial with Willys-Overland, then Kaiser, the term “Jeeps” had been around in the Washington Post. As to the AMC, Chrysler and currently Fiat for years, which was a slang word origin of the monosyllable “Jeep” Chrysler. However, I’m now even used by the U.S. Army that meant there appears to be neither mystery more intrigued to learn the origin OFFICERS and REPRESENTATIVES insignificant, awkward or silly. It was nor controversy. of the name “Jeep”. Many people also used by U.S. Army mechanic’s to Rumours about Jeep’s plan to COMMITTEE Editor: Whilst every care is taken in compiling believe it comes from the slurring of Multicylinder, the publisher can take refer to any new vehicle. President: JOHN MILLER celebrate its 80th anniversary next no responsibility for any effects arising the acronym G.P. (General Purpose), ALAN MURPHY Richmond House, 14 Robins Lane, year with a few special editions have 41 Eastham Rake, Eastham, Wirral, Brockhill, Redditch B97 6GX therefrom. Editorial contributions been swirling around the internet for Cheshire, CH62 9AN. Tel: 07773 849717 are welcome and will be handled with [email protected] reasonable care, but must be accompianed a while and Fiat Chrysler has now Tel: 0151 327 2470 made it official. Not one, not two, but [email protected] by return postage, however the publishers Web Designer: assume no responsibility for return six anniversary models have been Secretary: MEL LLOYD or safety of artwork, photographs, prepared, so every single Jeep model LUKE ARNOTT 33 Squires Leaze, Thornbury, manuscripts or any digital information Holcotmoors Lodge, Hulcote, Milton gets the “special edition” treatment Bristol, BS35 1TB supplied. 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2 3 Once again, what to do? “This is maybe one of the best-driving vehicles I’ve ever owned,” says Bill. It An outside mount would certainly be cruises easily at highway speeds (and The biggest hot-rod project necessary, but it also had to look right. once got up as fast as 88 mph on a Something close to a proper appearance, freeway test), handles well, gets around else the whole idea of the project would 17 mpg, is quiet enough for tour use and be compromised. They looked at the is, in every reasonable way, a completely in Idaho various outside air cleaners on current modern vehicle built on a now 70-year- commercial diesel trucks, but all were far old school-bus design. too large and wouldn’t look right anyway. They just wouldn’t do at all. Sean wasn’t quite ready to have it in Portland for the first year after it was The thinking went outside the (air) finished, so Bill took it to shows around Pre-restoration. Well, that’s… spartan. box at that point. What was needed the Pacific Northwest. It always has was something of a reasonable size, received much attention, has garnered round, with a removable top that well over a dozen trophies in various would accommodate a current air filter. categories. It took a Best Interior award Something like a….stainless-steel at a show in Boise, over several other stockpot. vehicles with ten-thousand-dollar leather A trip to a local restaurant supply interiors. company — Bill recalls they got some Sean’s business, The Vintage Tour Bus funny looks while there — provided a Company, is up and running. The biggest proper stock pot, and a frying pan that hot-rod project in Idaho may now be the would fit over the top. Both had handles, biggest hot rod in Oregon, and regularly but on the stock pot, the holes on one side shuttles guests on winery tours, were used to fit to a mounting bracket sightseeing packages, and special-event Sean’s office, today. to the bus body, and on the other for a rentals tailored to his customers’ needs. custom-made identification plate. The There are seasonal specials, too, with handle was removed from the frying Valentine’s Day tours, wildflower trips, pickup frame was double welded into the pan, and a hole drilled in the bottom for and even Christmas-lights excursions. bus rails. There was enough space for the the long threaded rod to attach to the All but abandoned just a few years back, otherwise stock duct leading from the diesel engine and turbocharger within Sean’s bus doesn’t spend too much time original air cleaner to the engine. (The the original bus engine bay, but a larger parked these days. radiator was required to handle the heat frying pan handle holes are turned to the inside and aren’t noticeable.) Sufficient For more information, or to book a tour output from the newer, more powerful of your own, visit VintageTourBus.com. engine. space was left between the frying pan Sean Kennedy’s 1945 Chevrolet school when Sean saw the ad he contacted Bill. unknown territory. For Bill, it was a huge lid and the stock-pot body to provide The wheels and tires fit within the bus hot rod — note the custom air Yes, the bus was available. Sean drove challenge. He’d never done anything like enough air to the engine. It had a clean original fenders. The transmission cleaner. Photos courtesy The Vintage from Portland to have a look. It was this before, but he has the heart of an look, is smaller than the commercial mounts (the original was a manual and diesel truck external air cleaners, fits the Tour Bus Company. somewhat rusty, but not too far gone. old-school hot-rodder. He accepted the the new an automatic) were relocated. space nicely, and had the right “look” for After several decades in the film and Simple, as most post-WW2 vehicles were. challenge, knowing full well that it would a period-correct, if not entirely original, entertainment business, Sean Kennedy No complicated bodywork, and parts take much time and work, and not being The biggest challenge was to cut the factory installation. was ready for a career change. were available. Exactly the kind of thing quite certain what the final outcome original firewall and build a new one Sean wanted. would be. to accommodate the longer engine and Problem solved. But to what? transmission combination. Those had to But Sean had no — as in none at all — Bill remembers, “It was the biggest hot- The original windshield wipers were be moved back eight inches, intruding He had, for some time, entertained the experience with vehicle mechanics. Bill rod project in Idaho at the time.” Correct vacuum-operated and unacceptable. The into the interior. For servicing, the idea of running his own business — a said he would teach him, in return for in size certainly, since it’s hard to find Dodge wiper assembly wouldn’t fit. The custom-built engine cover was attached tour service offering geology tours of Sean doing some of the work. It was an bigger hot-rods than a school bus. And it replacements came out of a Jeep. with two latches, making it easily the Pacific Northwest. He had been unusual offer, but Sean jumped at the was big in the amount of time required, The Dodge also provided an entire new Before. The bus had potential, but not removable. The air conditioning was fascinated by its volcanic and tectonic opportunity. Having a bus that he knew too. rear end to the bus. Bill recalls it bolted much else. relocated to a place where the compressor history, and by its widely varied and inside and out would work just fine. Sean couldn’t afford to front the entire “almost perfectly” to where the original cannot be seen from looking inside the ever-changing landscape. cost to make it a hurry-up project, and Bill had been, and was off by only about a The original idea was to keep it all hood. “Just no other way to do it,” says told him that he’d work on it whenever quarter of an inch. Holes were drilled But modern tour buses are Chevrolet, so Sean found a used Chevrolet Bill. “The original never had air.” The and tapped and it fit well. The new rear is Sean showed up from Portland. In the dually with a 454, bought it and started stock turbocharger fit nicely inside the wider than the original to handle the new expensive. process, he’d teach Sean how to use the to drive to Twin Falls. re-done engine compartment, so that was dual tires, so Bill and Sean hand-formed Over the years, he had the germ of an equipment, how to cut and weld, and It blew up before it got out of town, no problem. a set of “fenders” to widen the rear, using idea that maybe refurbishing an old how to fabricate new body parts for the leaving Sean with a real quandary. an original Studebaker design, because bus, perhaps a school bus, would work. old ones. But Sean had to be there — Bill New brakes and suspension components Overhauling the original Chevrolet I-6 Bill is a Studebaker fan. Those kept a But most old buses, having been in had to make a living with other projects went with the front frame, greatly period look even though they are not the just wasn’t feasible. It was never really commercial service — sometimes for meanwhile. improving driveability and safety. The same as the original slab-sided body. decades — were pretty much basket cases built for reliable long-haul tour use, and power brake booster interfered with the So, that was the deal. It went on for No one in Twin Falls had a paint booth anyway. For some with diesel engines, it didn’t have enough power to maintain motion of the brake pedal, so that had Pre-restoration, the bus’ interior left five more summers like that. Sean large enough to handle painting a school restoration and maintenance would be speed on freeways and modern roads. For to be relocated within the new firewall much to be desired. would drive over on weekends, they’d do bus, so the entire bus was sprayed outside out of reach entirely. They got pretty a while, it looked like there was no good configuration. something to the bus, then Sean would in the stillness of mornings, one section complicated, with parts and servicing — solution. return to his day job and wait until the at a time. Sean picked the green body especially mechanics — hard to find. Then Sean found a 1992 Dodge dually That left one last thing — color. The roof is white to keep interior next week. with a 5.9-liter Cummins turbodiesel the air cleaner. temperatures down. What to do? Technically, there were some interesting in pretty good shape. It certainly had There was just no way the stock air Sean designed the interior. Originally it surprises. It turns out that once the front Enter Bill Ruby, of Twin Falls, sufficient power to get down the road, cleaner was ever going to fit inside the had carpet, but that wasn’t going to be frame and engine were removed from Idaho. Bill had his own auto shop it was reasonably fuel efficient, parts engine bay. A 1945 school bus wasn’t built suitable for hard tour use, so the floor the pickup, the frame rails came within (DreamRideBuilders.com) where he are readily available, and it was pre- with so much room that something the was redone in bamboo. The seats were 3 inches of lining up. It was decided to did some considerable hot-rodding to computer-era. If it could somehow be size of a shop vacuum would fit alongside reupholstered and the interior brought use the pickup frame from the firewall much regional acclaim. He’d been in mated to the school-bus chassis, it could all the other modern components. But an up to current design standards. It was forward. After narrowing the rails, they completed in 2014, after five summers the car hobby since 1975, and opened be the solution. air cleaner was necessary — the vehicle aligned with the originals on the bus, and and thousands of hours of work. The his business in 2006. He listed a 1945 This is where things got interesting. For simply couldn’t be operated properly Inside, today — not a bad place to spend with a 10-inch front-to-back overlap, the result? Chevrolet school bus for sale online, and Sean, a project of this magnitude was without one. time. 4 5 The RT was dropped its highChallenger performance was the 225 replacement was the Rallye, whichcubic inch was “Slant really Six”. The a shadow of the RT. The only enginesbase V8 wasoffered the 318,in if Dodge Challenger 1970-1974 the Rallye were the standard 318you or bought the optional an R.T. then Dodge Challenger 1970– 1974. 340. Much the same as in the ordinarythe base Challenger engine was a 340 except you could also have a 225 sixV8. cylinderEngines inavailable the base model. across the range as Dodge Challenger 1970– 1974. In common with most Americanoptions makers were at thethe 340 V8, time horse power ratings beganthree to differentfall. Due 383in V8’s, part to a different way of measuringthe 426 output, Hemi andbut two also because of the increasingly stringentdifferent emission440’s . Six controls. Some engines were droppedcylinder Challengerssome new must ones introduced. The Hemi was thebe first quite enginerare nowadays that disappeared completely. only about 13% of the first For 1973 the only real change onyears the production Challenger had the was the installation of Federally mandated.six cylinder. SafetyThe vast bumpers, the Rallye was no longermajority listed of customersas a 19721972 Dodge Dodge Challenger. Challenger. Note Note the the completely completely re-styled re-styled grill grilland andthe newthe separate series just an optional optedextra for pack.the base The V8. graphics on the side. Gold was a standard Dodge colour, not one of the six cylinder engine was no longer available in the new graphics on the side. Gold was a standard Dodge colour, not one Although the Challenger extra cost trendy ones. Challenger. The 318 was standard with the 340 as of the extra cost trendy ones. had the looks, the Dodge the only option. Dart Swinger was a good flash backs he was a racing driver, motor listed as a separate series just an optional extra pack. 1974 was the last year for the Challengeralternative, only especially just if you went for the Swinger 340. As the name cycle racer , in the army , a police man. It over 16,00 were sold before Dodge pulled the plug. The six cylinder engine was no longer available in the implies it was powered by the 340 V8, the performance was similar flash backs he was a racing driver, alsomotor tells of the people he meets along Challenger. The 318 was standard with the 340 as the The 1973 and ‘74 models were virtuallyto that of identicala 340 Challenger, but the insurance was very much cycle racer , in the army , a police man.the It way One scene was cut where he except for the fact the Rallye pack became rather only option. also tells of the people he meets along cheaper. picks up a hitch hiker, played by Charlotte more elaborate for ‘74. It still had the scoops behind 1974 was the last year for thethe Challenger way One only scene just wasover cut where he For 1971 the Challenger received the usual annual cosmetic the front wheels and the graphic tape running the 16,00 were sold before Dodgepicks pulled up thea hitch plug. hiker, played by CharlotteRampling, the studio thought people whole length of the car, but it alsoupgrades. had special In 1971 cast Dodge did rather a strange thing they introduce Rampling, the studio thought peoplewould not understand it. Newman said the Demon. A sporty fast back coupe version of the Dart aimed at The 1973 and ‘74 models werewould virtually not identical understand except it. Newman said wheels and different hood. she was an allegorical figure representing much the same area of the market as the Challenger. Demon’s for the fact the Rallye packshe becamewas an allegorical rather morefigure representing The Challenger never had the market penetration elaborate for ‘74. It still haddeath. the scoops behind the death. Dodge had hoped for, in spite didnof ’tbeing sell too onewell inof the Bible Belt southern states because of it’s front wheels and the graphic tape running the whole he best looking (I think) pony cars.name. ItThere came was eventoo a rumour, which I have not been able to In the end Kowalski crashes into a In road the end Kowalski crashes into a road confirm, that some southern preachers tried to have sales of the length of the car, but it also had special cast wheels and 1970 Dodge Challenger. Colour Plum Crazy, one of Dodges trendy new extra cost lateoptional to an already crowded market place. It was block and is killed. block and is killed. Demon banned. different hood. Introduced1970 Dodge in 1970 Challenger. the Challenger Colour Plum1970 Dodge Crazy, Challenger. one of Colour colours.Dodges Plum Go Crazy,trendy Mango one new of below Dodges extra was trendy costanother new optional extra one. cost heavier than most of the opposition which meant 5 Challengers were used making the film, was Dodges rather belated “Pony Car” optional colours. Go Mango below was another one. it needed the bigger engines to makeFor 1972 it theperform. Challenger was completely restyled, the most The Challenger never had four the 440’ markets with penetration4 speed manuals and5 one Challengers were used making the film, reply to the Mustang and Camaro.colours. The Go Mango below was another one. Plus the government and insurancenoticeable companies new feature was the new grill. The rear end received a Dodge had hoped for, in spite383 of automatic. being one Theof hefilm best has been ratedfour as 440’s with 4 speed manuals and one were clamping down on performance cars. The Challenger followed the tried and tested slight update. The convertible was deleted for 1972, only the two looking (I think) pony cars. theIt came second too best late car to chase an after Bullit.383 I automatic. The film has been rated as formula, two body styles , a range of Introduced inChallenger 1970 the also had a reputationdoor for coupes poor were build offered. It would be another ten years before already crowded market place.think Itit ’swas better, heavier the chase than is the film. quality. the second best car chase after Bullit. I engines and options. Challenger was Dodges rather Dodge offered a convertible again. most of the opposition whichThe car meantshown itas the needed wreck after the the final think it’s better, the chase is the film. Probably the most famous Challenger was the one bigger engines to make crashit perform.was actually Plus a ‘67 Camaro.the The body styles were the two door hardtop Introduced in 1970 thebelated “Pony Car” reply to The RT was dropped its high performance replacement was the driven by Barry Newman in the film “Vanishing government and insurance companies were clamping coupe, which was the most popular, and the Mustang and Camaro. The Rallye, which was really1974 a shadow Dodge of the Challenger, RT. The only identicalengines offered to the 1973 model. The If you have never seen it, it’s well worthThe a car shown as the wreck after the final Challenger was Dodges rather Point”. The film has been described as existentialist, down on performance cars. The Challenger also had a a convertible. A variation on the coupe Challenger followed the tried in the Rallye were the standard 318 or the optional 340. Much the watch. Anyone under the age of 50crash will was actually a ‘67 Camaro. belated “Pony Car” reply to it was typical of the early seventies. colour is an extra cost option Panther Pink.reputation Over the for life poor ofbuild the quality. was the SE or as it is sometimes listed and tested formula, two body same as in the ordinary Challenger except you could also have a 225 never understand it, but it is still worth The film was directed by Richard C. ChallengerSarakian. Dodge offered twenty different colours, including the Formal Roof. This had a padded vinyl the Mustang and Camaro. The six cylinder in the base model. 19741974 Dodge Dodge Challenger, Challenger, identicalProbably identical to the the 1973 most to model.famous the seeing1973ChallengerThe colour model. was isthe an Theone If you have never seen it, it’s well worth a styles , a rangeBriefly of engines it tellsand of Kowalski a car delivery driver who roof and a small back window. An R.T. seven extra cost cost options option Pantherwith trendy Pink. names.driven Over by These the Barry life Newmanwere of the in the ChallengerIn film case “ Vanishing you Dodge have Point ever”. wonderedwatch. Anyone under the age of 50 will Challenger followed the triedoptions. decides he will drive from DenverIn Colorado common with to mostSan Americancolour makers is at an the extratime horse cost power option Panther Pink. Over the life of the version was available, this had various offered twenty different colours, Theincluding film has seven been extra described “costVanishing optionsas existentialist, Point ”with is when itwas a never car understand it, but it is still worth Francisco in an impossible time. ratingsFor no began apparent to fall. BananaDue in part , Goto a Mango,different Hemiway of Orange,measuring outPlum Crazy, Sublime, modifications aimed at improving the and tested formula, two body trendy names. These were Bananatypical , of Go the early Mango, seventies. Hemi disappears Orange, into Plum the heat haze when The body stylesreason were thebut two simply because he can.put, The but alsostory because tells of the increasinglyChallenger stringent Dodge emission controls. offered twenty different colours, including seeing handling. What does R.T. stand for? Crazy, Sublime,Panther Pink Panther and GreenPink and Go. Green Go. driving on a desert road. styles , a range of engines anddoor hardtop coupe, which Usually it is translated as “Road and of Kowalski's life in flash backsSome heengines was were a dropped racing some new ones introduced. The Hemi The film was directed by Richard C. Sarakian. Briefly it seven extra cost options with trendy names. These were In case you have ever wondered Track”, but Chryslers official definition options. was the most driver,popular, motor and a cycle racer , in the armywas the, a firstpolice engine man. that disappeared completely. tells of Kowalski a car delivery driver who decides he It also tells of the people he meets along the way will drive from Denver Colorado to San Francisco in an “Vanishing Point” is when a car was “Rapid Transit.” convertible. A variation on the For 1973 the only real change on Bananathe Challenger , wasGo the Mango, installation Hemi Orange, Plum Crazy, Sublime, The body styles were the two One scene was cut where he picks up a hitch hiker, impossible time. For no apparent reason but simply disappears into the heat haze when The Base engine in the 1970 Challenger coupe was the SE or as it is of Federally mandated . Safety bumpers, the Rallye was no longer door hardtop coupe, which played by Charlotte Rampling, the studio thought Panther Pinkbecause and he can. Green The story Go. tells of Kowalski's life in driving on a desert road. was the 225 cubic inch “Slant Six”. The sometimes listedpeople the would Formal not understand it. Newman said she base V8 was the 318, if you bought an was the most popular, and Roof.a This had wasa padded an allegorical vinyl figure representing death. 13 R.T. then the base engine was a 340 V8. convertible. A variation on roofthe and a smallIn back the window.end Kowalski crashes into a road block and Engines available across the range as An R.T. versionis was killed. available, options were the 340 V8, three different 1971 Dodge Challenger RT. Colour, Go Mango. Note slightlycoupe was re-styled the SEgrill. or Theas it is this had various5 Challengers modifications were used making the film, four 440’s 383 V8’s, the 426 Hemi and two different RT version had several cosmetic differences such as the sometimestape on the sides listed and the wood Formal with 4 speed manuals and one 383 automatic. The 440’s . Six cylinder Challengers must grain interior plus the Rallye Pack instrument panel. The one above has the very aimed at improving the Roof. This had a padded vinyl film has been rated as the second best car chase be quite rare nowadays only about 13% rare 426 Hemi engine. handling. What does R.T. stand 1971 Dodge Challenger RT. Colour, Go Mango. Note slightly re- after Bullit. I think it’s better, the chase is the film. of the first years production had the six roof and a small back window.for? Usually it is translated as cylinder. The vast majority of customers The car shown as the wreck after the final crash styledFor 1971 grill. the TheChallenger RT version received had the several that cosmeticsome southernAn R.T.differences versionpreachers was triedsuch available, toas “ Road and Track”, but Chryslers opted for the base V8. usual annual cosmetic upgrades. In have sales of the Demon banned. was actually a ‘67 Camaro. the tape on the sides and wood grain interiorthis plus had the various Rallye modifications Pack official definition was “Rapid Although the Challenger had the looks, 1971 Dodge did rather a strange thing For 1972 the Challenger was completely If you have never seen it, it’s well worth a watch. Transit.” the Dodge Dart Swinger was a good instrumentthey introduce panel. the Demon. The oneA sporty above fast has re-styled, the very aimed therare most 426at Heminoticeableimproving engine. new the Anyone under the age of 50 will never understand it, but it is still worth seeing alternative, especially if you went for the back coupe version of the Dart aimed at feature washandling. the new What grill. doesThe rear R.T. end standThe Base engine in the 1970 1971Swinger Dodge340. As the Challenger name implies it RT.was Colour,much the same Go area Mango. of the market Note as the slightly received re -a slight update. The convertible In case you have ever wondered “Vanishing Point” powered by the 340 V8, the performance Challenger. Demon’s didn’t sell too well was deleted12for? for Usually 1972, it onlyis translated the two as is when a car disappears into the heat haze when styledwas similar grill. to that The of aRT 340 version Challenger, had in several the Bible Beltcosmetic southern states differences because door such coupes as “Road were and offered. Track ”,It butwould Chryslers be driving on a desert road. but the insurance was very much of it’s name. There was even a rumour, Barry Newman driving a 1970 Challenger in the film Vanishing Point. another tenofficial years before definition Dodge offered was “Rapid a Barry Newman driving a 1970 Challenger in the film Vanishing Point. thecheaper. tape on the sides and woodwhich grain I have interior not been plus able to the confirm, Rallye convertible Pack again. Transit.” Mel Atkinson instrument panel. The one above has the very6 rare 426 Hemi engine. 7 14 The Base engine in the 1970 12

Barry Newman driving a 1970 Challenger in the film Vanishing Point.

14 1/43rd Scale Autos The Fageol 1950 TC Editor’sEditor’s CargoLiner – A Trailer ScrapbookScrapbook Without A Tractor

1942 Oldsmobile

Station Wagon William B. Fageol and his brother Frank R. began the Fageol The demonstrator, fabricated in 1950 as part of an effort to Motors Company in 1916 at a location in Oakland, California. land an Army contract for 1,650 vehicles. The Fruehauf Trailer In the July/August edition of The first vehicle built was the sensational 1917 130 h.p. Fageol Corporation constructed the stainless body, and the front of Multicylinder, I wrote about the ‘42 Supercar that was an unfortunate causality of World War I. it was mounted on a steerable bogey axle with hydraulicly Oldsmobile B44 Club Sedan. Much of the Postwar the Company focused on the impressive Fageol Safety actuated controls. This front axle assembly is visible in the detail in that piece applies to the station Coach and a line of Fageol trucks. third photo below. wagon version, only the wagon is a much Louis J. Fageol, Frank’s son, ended up managing the renamed It appears the effort only resulted in one “Cargoliner” being rarer vehicle. Very few were built and I “Twin Coach” Company by himself after his brother Oren died built, but at about the same time Twin Coach won a contract believe that probably less than a handful in 1943. In addition to running the business, Louis was a well- to build over 1500 F-32-F “Convertible” buses for the US Army. now survive. known speedboat racer who won the Gold Cup in 1951 with his This was followed in 1952 by the production of the Twin Coach Fortunately, Brooklin Models had access hydroplane “Slo-Mo-Shun V.” He also constructed racing cars “Fageoliner”, a civilian bus. You can learn more about the to the car in the Nicola Bulgaria collection to run at Indianapolis and bought the unfinished Art Sparks Fageol Company and the vehicles it produced at Coachbilt.com. and their rendition of this lovely wagon in coupe built for Joe Thorne, and completed it with one of his own The photos are courtesy of the W.B. Fageol Collection. engines and named it the Fageol “Super Sonic.” dark blue is, as one would expect, superb. Sales of buses at Twin Coach and other bus builders dropped I decided to refinish the model in a when General Motors began to dominate the market in the late much lighter colour than standard. The forties. Needing a new product to bring to market in October wood framing and paneling have been of 1950 the firm introduced a new concept vehicle the Fageol improved and to give the car a different “Super Freighter.” This unique truck was a self-propelled look from standard I added a sun-visor trailer minus the tractor with the driver’s compartment located and a spare wheel carrier. I also added up front, and the engine mounted in the middle of the vehicle chrome accessories such as a spot light below the floor. and internal and external mirrors. Exactly who designed this new truck is not known, but Louis I hope the changes add a little more J. Fageol filed a patent application for the renamed Fageol character to an already excellent model. “TC CargoLiner” on November 30, 1950. It used an under-floor diesel engine and transmission (seen in the last photo below) that drove through a rear drive axle, both apparently were built John Ellis by International Harvester. 8 9 Custom Car magazines, or anything Hi Chris, Hi Nadine, Good day, with American vehicles in. I also at this I think I was the one rambling on too Thank YOU for writing about your recent I have been told that you might have time started collecting and building much about my books, I’m glad you liked acquisition and also a BIG thank you for some answers for me as apparently Letters to AMT/Monogram kits and entering them the cover photos of the 1976 Chrysler to the great work you do as a front line nurse DVLA cannot trace it. in competitions, with some degree of me it’s quite a striking photo and car. at the NHS. It really is a shot in the dark but….. success. Although to you and me it appears to be a Take care, cheers We left the UK in 1953 and at the time Like you I took out a subscription of modern car, however in reality it is now a John my father sold his 1939 Buick, Series the Editor Hemmings Classic Car, but stopped when classic car in its own right being 44-years 40 Dual Side Mount. Registration at they included featuring European cars. I old. the time was FLP117. I am quite simply have a copy of “Vintage Truck“ magazine Hi John, Greeting to you John and your wife, thank wondering if it is still around, and if it that you can have, duly as enclosed. You Well Chris knowing you are an avid you for running my colour advertisement The article in the September/October has been, or might even be, waiting for are most welcome to this and hope that FoMoCo guy, I hope you approve of this on page 29 of the September/October Multicylinder about the Dodge WF truck restoration. I am really just curious, it is not an issue that you already have. edition of the front and rear cover. magazine. prompted me to write this. nothing more, though I would love to see Take care, cheers I thought you may like this enclosed Like you I’m looking forward to the RoG I must admit I don’t know a great deal a recent photo of it. on 11th July 2021. article that featured in the US magazine John about Dodge trucks. So, I could be writing I enclose two photos of the car taken in “Popular Mechanics”, taken from the Regards about a completely different model. When 1950. February 1958 edition, which covers I first went to Malta, must have been late Cliff Marsh Hi John, In anticipation, 16 excellent illustrations by Ed Vebell. seventies early eighties I was fascinated This article is titled America’s Most Just to say another great Magazine, by the old buses. Many of them were Regards SIGNIFICANT CARS – a historical Hi Cliff, the front and back covers features one built on old American and Canadian ex- Diane Stuckey portfolio. After returning from a 12-day break in of my favourite range of cars, the mid military vehicle chassis. Dodges with a I also have a dozen or so of colourful Dorset I was looking through my post and seventies Chryslers. The "New for 76" similarly styled front end to the WF were brochures on American fire appliances, delighted when I opened your letter to find New Yorkers, with the waterfall grill has probably the most common, the rest of yes Fire Trucks John!! a copy of the “Vintage Truck” magazine, always been undervalued; much better the body work was locally built. The old which is an issue that I didn't have Eleven years ago I wrote to Pierce looking than the then current Lincoln’s petrol engines had been long replaced The photo of the orange Dodge shows until you kindly sent this to me. I really Manufacturing Inc. copy letter attached and certainly as nice as the seventies usually with British diesels. What had one that was working well into the appreciate your generosity and thank you from Wisconsin USA. Cadillac’s. originally been American Ford V8’s were 1990’s. The Green Dodge and the so much for your kindness. I wanted to Although, I have always understood that also very popular. By the 1970’s many Chevrolet are earlier pictures; they If you think you may want to do a future phone you to thank you personally, but I had been converted to forward control the New Yorker was to compete with changed the colour scheme sometime article on this type of truck, let me couldn't find your number and apparently only the Dodges and British Ford ET6’s the Olds and Buick top lines. Chrysler's in the 1980’s I believe. They have know and I will loan you the full set of the Pre50 club doesn't have a record of it (which would have been flathead V8 Imperial range was the corporation's all gone now except for a few left in brochures. either. powered when they were new) and the preservation, sadly to be replaced Thank you again for my adverts in offering to the Lincoln and Cadillac odd Bedford still retained the original Once again thank you, I now have 12 buyers. I owned a 73 New Yorker, which by anonymous Chinese buses, in the Multicylinder, we wish you and yours the copies of the Vintage Truck mag, ranging front ends. Back in the 1940’s over 50% Ed.. If you know the whereabouts of this I found to be well made, reliable, and a E.U.’s quest for clean air. Best of Health. from 2003 to my latest copy, 2019 which of Malta’s bus fleet was American based, car or have any information/photos, nice car to drive; perhaps not quite as I have also attached a photo of a Dodge Sincerely you sent me. with about 50 Dodges, over 100 Ford please contact Luke Arnott. luxurious as a Cadillac interior, but OK. V8’s, 73 Reo’s, a single Studebaker, plus truck, this one has been restored, John S. Warren & Eileen Take care, cheers I will send you some photos and words on but when I first went to Malta many several other makes. Hi John, John my Chrysler; they may be useful to you of these Dodges were still working, usually they were the smaller 1-ton Local guy dropped this letter off Hi John, THE CLUB FOR ENTHUSIASTS OF ALL for an article in the Multicylinder. AMERICAN VEHICLES UK £3.50 versions. yesterday; I said will take him for a spin Many thanks for the superb article/ MulticylinderUSA $5.50 Keep up the good work. www.pre50aac.com September / October - Vol 54-5 The artwork on the truck is a traditional in it! illustrations; which I will definitely be John Sewell. featuring in the Jan/Feb 2021edition of Maltese thing, most of the Luke Arnott Multicylinder. As regards to the Pierce old buses were decorated fire engines, I would indeed like to take Hi John, in a similar manner, and it is still used on commercial up your kind offer as I know that several Thanks for the kind words, as a Chrysler vehicles. members are interested in trucks and Corp. guy yes of course I totally agree being fire engines that always attracts with your comments! Mel Atkinson people. The amount of times that I’ve visited the States, when a fire truck Interesting to note that on 26th June 1973 Hi Mel, shows up, I’ve noted it automatically Chrysler Corp. builds its one-million ’73 draws crowds of people. The US Fire model, a Chrysler Newport sedan. I’m sure your holiday Department takes pride in their vehicles, Turn to pages 18-19 to see John’s photos of these elaborate they always look like that just came out Hi John, previously owned 1973 Chrysler New painted buses will put the showroom. I was pleased to see this issue of Yorker Brougham, does anyone know a smile on many of our members’ faces, especially Take care & Best Wishes to you, Eileen Multicylinder, especially your photo of where is this car now ? your collection of “Automobile Quarterly”. Nadine’s. and your sons. Take care, cheers Most impressed are the best words I can John come up with, I only have a few of these John books. I have concentrated on collecting Ford Books I have the complete set of the Hi John, Hi John, I have just received the latest issue of Lorin Sorenson leather books and the I loved the layout you did with the article “Multicylinder”, first rate as usual. I three Ford `Bibles by Nevins and Hill, on my 1947 Dodge truck, it really looked always start by reading your Torqueback which every motoring journalist seems to good in the magazine. Colin Rogers drove page and in this issue it rang true with refer to. I also liked your front/rear cover over to tell me how much he liked the me, like you I grew up on a healthy diet photos, described by some as modern of “Dinky and Corgi etc” and especially cars but when was the last time you saw article and I have also heard from some American cars. I made a point on my one in the flesh as it where. of my other friends. I better try and write limited funds of collecting the range Enough of my ramblings, a great issue. another article sometime! of cars and trucks of US vehicles. I All the best All the best, then started collecting Hot Rods and Chris Sanders Nadine Geary 10 When we returned to Dunster station, Ian Wedding of Majorie asked if I had had any luck with tracing Pollard to Jack Rawle the Buick history. He then recalled it was 2nd December 1939 at possible that his father in law had worked Porlock Weir MyMy ClassicClassic 1931 Buick at Staddons Motors as an apprentice just Monty Ridler before WW2. While waiting for the train he (fisherman) phoned his wife and she confirmed that was lifeboatman on left right! He gave me his email address so that Frank Cooksley I could send the picture and description of (butcher) on right straight 8, L-90 the Buick. It turned out to be extremely The wedding couple lucky that Ian was on duty that day as he had to pay a donation only worked one day a week at the station. to the lifeboat fund. Interestingly, aside from this story, the You can just see an Part Two train back to Taunton arrived and we were arm reaching into the amazed to see a youngish woman with rear window. flowing blonde hair and soot on her face, standing on the footplate driving the train. to meet up. By coincidence and a chain of her daughter married Arthur Luttrell a We were told she was the Vicars wife! people connections, it led to me finding out younger son of the Luttrell family, so there In due course, the disappointing day at about some of the history of my car and was a Dunster Castle link. Dunster turned out to lead to quite a lot of obtaining two lovely period photos of it in Another search brought up a newspaper the Buick’s history. I did email a photo of 1939. cutting from 1950 that Arthur Luttrell the Buick to Ian to show his father in law. At this point I had got no further in linking who had changed his married surname to Soon after a long email came back saying the Buick to the Luttrell family at Dunster Brocklehurst-Luttrell had a teenage son that he remembered the car very well. He Castle. who would, on the proviso he would change had worked on the Buick often and noticed his surname to his uncle’s which was it had wood spoke wheels now, the original I phoned Colin Rogers who in the early Munro-Ferguson, inherit a vast estate in wire wheels that he remembered often 1970’s had collected two of Staddons Ross-shire Scotland. needed adjusting in snow or icy weather Buicks (Mine and the hearse) from where when the spokes became loose. Staddons they had ended up resting in Bridgewater. I did write to Mr.Munro-Ferguson also Motors also ran a funeral business with Roger Burnell who had been an early Pre50 enclosing a photo of the Buick and three Buicks, two 1931 L90 eight cylinder member bought the cars. Remarkably, eventually received a reply from his son Limousines and one 1930 series 60 six Colin remembered when he was only 14 Ronald. His father had died in 1989 and cylinder hearse They often travelled to years old seeing a funeral cortege of three unfortunately, there were no details of the Bristol for funerals as this was the nearest Buicks in Stow on the Wold and at the front car or pictures of it. Mrs.Brocklehurst was crematorium to Minehead at that time. was OU 8314 (his American car enthusiasm his great grandmother. Her Buick would certainly started at an early age!) He then have been a visitor to the Castle but not On one such occasion, the Buick hearse mentioned that OU was a Hampshire resided there. He finished the letter by blew a piston on its way back from Bristol registration. I thought perhaps it had saying if ever I wanted to sell the Buick he Following on from my previous article Meanwhile I really wanted to trace the Castle, I had to be honest and say “not so a mechanic was dispatched to recover been registered on arrival from the U.S. at would be interested. about the adventures Geoff Baker had with early history of the car. As far as was particularly” then showed him a photo of the car. He cleaned all the broken piston Southampton. the Buick in his forty years of ownership. known the car came from the Luttrell the Buick and gave my reason for the visit, bits out and drove it back on five cylinders. Over the years I owned the Buick we had In 2010 I had managed to buy the car family of Dunster Castle near Minehead. he seemed very interested. In the nineteen eighties then member Bob Luckily the Hampshire records office at great fun travelling to rallies including from him and on becoming the new owner Winchester could possibly help. They would the 2012 Rally of the Giants at Blenheim, The old logbook was started in 1939 and Arriving at the Castle ticket office I Perry, of The Sugarloaf public house Bristol I relished the challenge to restore this not allow visitors to search their records, also because of its size taking all the was stamped “ORIGINAL LOST IN FIRE”. explained I had come to see the archivist eventually owned this car and converted wonderful vehicle back to somewhere near The first listed owner then was Staddons the hearse body to a Piccadilly coupe! however on paying £10 they would search family out in it. Having spent many, many its former glory. but disappointingly, when they phoned and post any findings to me. A week later a hours working on the car I realised it was Motors, Minehead, who were now long Meanwhile on phoning the Minehead through he was in a meeting and could card arrived stating OU8314 was sold new not going to be completely restored in my My first challenge was to replace the four gone so the next step was to call Dunster tyre company and speaking to the owner not see me. While all this was going on a by Criterion Motors Southampton to a Mrs. lifetime. Reluctantly I contacted Mr.Munro- road tyres, which had seen better days Castle and hope to speak to someone who Neil Arnold he confirmed that his large volunteer member of staff named Doug Brocklehurst of Boldre Grange, Lymington. Ferguson in 2017 to enquire if he was still several years before. Fortunately, on dealt with their archives. The guy wasn’t premises had belonged to Staddons Motors could see my disappointment so I told This was astounding information, as Boldre interested in buying the Buick. He was recommendation I contacted North Hants and he had found several photos. He looked too helpful but suggested I call in sometime him the tale of the Buick and showed the Grange is only about five miles from where and flew down to see it a few days later. Tyres of Aldershot who were very helpful at his framed pictures of cars that Staddons to see him. A month or two later we were photo. “That’s interesting” he said “a tyre I live! Unfortunately, on visiting there Typically when having a test run, out of the and gave me a good deal on four new Coker had owned or stored during World War 2 caravanning in Somerset and decided company has recently taken over a large I discovered the Grange has now been blue the fuel starvation problem started tyres (I managed to use two of the better but nothing seemed to match the Buick, to take the steam train (which is run by garage premises in Minehead and they converted to four luxury flats, so another and came back to haunt me, however as it old tyres for the twin side-mounts). then just before putting down the phone volunteers) from Taunton to Minehead, found some photos of 1930’s cars which dead end. The link with Dunster Castle had been his great grandmother’s car he Next urgent problem was kingpins and he said “wait a minute I’ve got a couple stopping at Dunster. When we arrived they had framed and put in the reception appeared to be unlikely too. wanted to restore the Buick and have it bearings, which were badly in need of more pictures hanging in the office…. at Dunster station there was the Station repainted to its original black finish. It was replacement. Geoff said they were not area”. Due to the train timetable, it was there’s one here with a registration number The time had come to start surfing the Master, Ian Grady dressed in resplendent a sad day for me when this Buick so full of brilliant when he originally bought the car! not possible to get to Minehead that day to OU something the photo isn’t too clear” I internet, this is a bit like fishing trying period uniform on the platform so I asked history was loaded onto a transporter that It was going to be very expensive to get some check it out, but luckily, he told me the tyre replied “OU 8314 that’s my car!” combinations of search details in the would take the car to Scotland, back to its purpose made with quotes in the region for directions to the Castle. We got chatting company name was Neil Arnold Tyres that hope something will turn up. Eventually A week or two later I had a phone call from £700! Whilst scanning the internet I came and he enquired if I was interested in the I could find on the internet. I had some success in discovering Mrs. family. Neil. One of his customers had spotted across the Antique American Automobile Brocklehurst was from a wealthy silk my Buick photo and said that his father Club forum and found a member who was importing family and appeared to have Vandyke Boubier owned the car in the early Vic Cheeseman looking for kingpins, someone suggested he moved to Minehead in the mid 1930’s when 1960’s when he ran Holford Glen Garage try Rare Parts Inc, of Stockton, California, just outside of Minehead. His unusual name so I thought I would try them too. On was actually on the registration book that I contacting them, they asked me to email had. Also a neighbour to the tyre company measurements and photos of what I was an Mr.Rawle had seen the photos and told looking for then soon found a complete Neil that his parents had used the Buick new old stock kit at $135 for a pair, plus for their wedding at Porlock Wier in 1939. shipping. They arrived in a week…fantastic His father had worked for Staddons and service, I would thoroughly recommend they had lent him two cars for the occasion. them. Further work included replacing I thought we just have to get to Minehead the ignition system and some wiring, a.s.a.p. to meet all these people! reconditioning door hinges and door handle My history search of the Buick was mechanisms, fitting a new exhaust system, St Johns Ambulance members, floor mats and carpets. These were just a becoming quite exciting and a date was a tradition to raise money few of the parts needing attention. arranged when everyone would be available 12 13 The workshop contains small industrial units, large parts storage and service area and Dan does most of his restoration 1936 Dodge D2 Coupe work. Our Man in Seattle - Returning to his cars, the ‘63 Dodge Dart convertible is a very pretty mid-sized car on the same basic floor pan as the smaller Barracuda’s. The slant six engine fits nicely as the cars were designed for it. When the V8 was introduced only the 273 size Dan Matthewson could be installed with the 900 series Torqueflite transmission and it is a pain to do some jobs as in reality the body needed major alterations. The starter motor has to be removed with the engine and transmission tilted, though not a major problem as one would last 100K miles. Dan has the Sport model S with 4 speed manual. I came across one of the later ‘67 remodelled body in Branson Missouri sporting a 360 with the 700 series transmission and stronger rear axle. Still petite in the early body style but underneath a brute of a car. The 1968 Barracuda is where Chrysler sizing up as it moved on and producing very powerful machines. The Chrysler TC Maserati (1989-91) is owned by his daughter and sits alongside her original Barracuda bought by her mother. In the 80’s Chrysler was in dire straits and the K series 1968 Plymouth Barracuda of Mitsubishi based cars were built. The Dodge 600 K series as a pretty convertible sold in the UK with the Chrysler Neon yet in the mid 80’s Chrysler set out to build an Italian deigned Line up of some of Dan's cars car with the De Tomaso owned Maserati group. Two versions were built, one powered by a V6 and the lower spec by a 2.2lt lot that I liked. Dan pointed out that it had been a 6 cylinder 4 cylinder. The 2 engines were built by Maserati both turbo charged and sporting Maserati labelled rocker covers. Both The man himself prior to being converted to a V8. Dan asked if I was interested engines were Mitsubishi with Maserati features. The standard Dan Matthewson in one as he had a spare original V8 model in his garage that he had bought 9 years ago for spares. It was too good to break engine was the US style 4 cyl,2 valve / cylinder and a 3speed and was complete. I pursued the offer and visited him at his auto as used in the UK sold Neon, a quick car but very thirsty. home in Tacoma positioned near to the Harold Lemay collection In an attempt to balance economy to performance the engine of 4,000 exhibits. A corner plot with a huge garage bought was fitted with a Maserati made head of 4 valves / cylinder and with the house and primarily built for a large marine vessel. It coupled to a 4 speed sporty gearbox. was soon converted to house cars as it was 4 huge bays wide, Maserati did make a V8 and a V6 engines which were used in 2 vehicles deep and high enough to double stack on hydraulic the Citroen SM and strangely the body styles of these and the service platforms. The Barracuda I was to purchase was in the Chrysler were 2 seat touring cars of which the SM was used for rear lower left looking solid and very restorable. The car was rallying. The sticker price in ‘89 of the Chrysler was $33K and bought originally for his daughter and she had started to tidy today $5K to 7K is the current value. Both the cars are beset it up. The car was driven out and I drove it around the block with parts availability monopolised by an entrepreneur who Chrysler TC Maserati - Dan's later compiling a list of parts bought from Layson’s, the Mopar had the foresight to acquire them. daughters car" people nearby. The whole lot was loaded into the car and was With the Tacoma Auto museum a recent addition and supported shipped back to the UK following my contract termination with by life time membership for supporters of which Dan is one. The Boeing A/C after 9/11. remains of the Harold Le May collection is run by his widow Dan’s collection varied slightly but still centres an early ‘A’ Nancy at the Marymount estate as well as the home site. The bodied Plymouth Barracuda’s interwoven with some oddities. garbage business which made the Le May money was sold The 1989 Shelby Dodge Dakota’s were featured in the previous off leaving a huge collection of vehicles. Every August there Multicylinder and the others are listed below: is an open day supported by a team of volunteer enthusiasts 1963 Dodge Dart GT convertible: 225 cu in Slant Six engine, who move and clean some beautiful cars normally parked like push button 904 Torqueflite transmission, Offenhauser dual sardines with an auction for additional entertainment. I was single carb intake, split exhaust and straight pipes (no mufflers), fortunate to see it in its former glory in 2001 before 9/11 and the 17” American racing ‘mag’ wheels, front disc brakes. collection was impressive. 1964 Plymouth Barracuda (black with red interior): 273 cu in Most of the club membership know of my constant interest V-8 2bbl carburettor 180 horsepower, factory Hurst shifted Mike ‘Hooky’ John in travel and it was during the decision making for the 40th A-833 four speed trans, first year for the Barracuda, first year Wedding Anniversary celebration we decided on 6 weeks in for a Chrysler four speed transmission, power steering. 1964 Plymouth Barracuda 1966 Plymouth Barracuda North America starting in Seattle (where I had worked for 1965 Plymouth Barracuda ‘S’ red with black interior: 273 cu Boeing A/C), followed by a 3 week package with Princess Cruises in V-8 4bbl carburettor, 235 horsepower, same owner since comprising an Alaskan wilderness tour and a cruise from January 1970. Anchorage to Vancouver, then a trip on the Rocky Mountaineer 1968 Plymouth Barracuda (green with black interior): 318 cu in gold class from Jasper to Vancouver via Edmonton, with a in V-8 4bbl carburettor, 340 TA exhaust manifolds 2 ½” dual final leg down to Las Vegas for a week. exhausts, A-833 four speed with Hurst shifter, American mag I intended to write articles on the various legs starting with wheels. my visit to Dan and Ann Mathewson, “Mr Mopar” who I first All four above are ‘A’ body cars. met at a Tacoma auto show whilst working in America and editing Multicylinder for the second period in 2001 - 2003. He 1989 Chrysler TC by Maserati: 2.2L turbo, Torqueflite auto was displaying the ‘63 Dodge Dart convertible and had business transmission, all factory options Basic model cards on his table showing his ‘36 Dodge coupe. At that time I 1936 Dodge D-2 coupe (silver): early 70’s Chrysler 360 cu in owned the unrestored ‘33 Plymouth convertible so conversation 2bbl V-8, A-727 Torqueflite transmission, Mopar 8 ¾” rear axle, was easy comparing originality with practicality. I mentioned power steering and disc brakes, Caddy tilt steering column that I have seen a ‘65 Plymouth Barracuda up the road in a sales transmission, suicide doors. 14 15 MyMy ClassicClassic

The engine used in the 1949 Studebaker pickup was the 169.6-cubic-inch Champion L-head six, which had been introduced in the spring of 1939. It was by far the lightest engine in the truck field, yet at 80 horsepower, it produced 1949 Studebaker half ton pick-up more horsepower per cubic inch than any of its competitors. Studebaker called it the Econ-o-miser, and for good reason. In the Champion passenger car, it consistently beat out all rivals in I bought my 1949 registered Studebaker ½ ton pick-up truck rings in one cyl. and stripdown exposed all liners had been supervised mileage contests. The engines were equipped with a (2.9 Champion Engine...3 speed with O/Drive) in Nov. 2005 welded (at their lower ends) to the block! A similar replacement vacuum-operated automatic spark control and incorporated an after seeing it advertised in 'Classic American'. Many months truck engine was sourced (through multitudes of co-incidences!) octane selector to adjust the timing to correspond to the octane later I was advised that it had made an appearance at the 2004 from a hot rod guy just a few miles away, of which he also 'threw rating of the gasoline. RoG having been trailered up from the importer's location in in' front and rear complete axles and s/box...total £200 !....all When coupled with the standard three-speed transmission Upminster, Essex....only 40 or so miles from me. But I certainly within 2 weeks of my initial disaster. This second engine and g/ together with the 4.82 ratio rear axle, it could deliver in excess had not seen it there that summer. It was a good, 90% 'actual box was OK for rebuilding and was in the truck and running by of 22 mpg at a 40-mph average. Even better results could be rust free!' complete California truck, non runner but free 2017...ongoing buck (sourced a replacement good used tailgate expected if one opted to spend the extra $93 charged for optional turning engine. With the usual broken/missing glass,dents, and from the States) and bodywork repairs etc. were finally ready overdrive (another Studebaker exclusive in the truck field). ½ eaten wiring,no seat, and a tailgate strengthened with a ½ for painting (summer 2018) and into the restoration shop ( R.M. On April 11, 1950, Studebaker announced it would make thick! steel plate strip across it with 'anchor' chains to match. Restorations,Birch,Colchester) I work for....body prep work available its 245.6-cubic-inch "Hy-Mileage" power-plant in the What started off (as many restorations do) as a reasonable fix followed and the Boss (Ralph Morse) did the paintwork....Come half-ton pick-up. This versatile engine was a direct descendent up job and have some fun with it,for the present...eventually the appropriate period afterwards, he and the other guys there of the one designed for use in the 1932-1933 Rockne. It was later led to a full restoration over the next 14 years. Weekends and assisted me with refitting all the major panelwork and buck. used in pre-war trucks as well as the Dictator and Commander holidays mainly. A 'Busman's Holiday', as over those years I The truck is basically 'factory standard' running gear with car lines. After the war, displacement was increased from 224 to was involved with restoration work on other peoples vehicles an original colour blue paint and cream contrasts...I made an 245.6 cubic inches; it was used in the 1947-1950 Commanders circa 1930's – early '60's...mainly European and UK stuff with error masking up the grill for the blue,as I later found out the and all of the larger trucks. factory painted them white to start with,as it was easier to later the odd Yank.I was familiar with the post war Yanks via Motor To differentiate the new model from the Champion-powered mask up over the white for the blue coat....it was a nightmare Trend ('57 onwards from my local station bookstall' 2R5, it would be referred to as the 2R6. The additional $50 (and stressful) trying to make a good job of masking over the Replacing the windscreen and rubbers led to the engine bay cost would seem to be justified inasmuch as the increase in blue up for the white...so I left the grill all blue...and reversed refurb and surprisingly exposing the bulkhead/cab factory and horsepower (102 versus 85) and torque (201 pound-feet versus to colour schemes for the front and rear bumpers....with a production worker's 'chalked on' reference numbers/letters. 133) was substantial. Studebaker, however, did very little to signwriter friend doing the tailgate lettering.....Full FatMat Replacing the old wiring was a next 'must do before engine sort promote the 2R6 and sales of it were slow. Sound deadening was added to the cab interior on fitting up... out', then the inevitable brakes and steering.The buck was off Radials were fitted to improve the steering. One novel feature exploited by Studebaker's advertising was next for access to stripping and painting the chassis. "lift the hood accessibility" to the engine and instrument panel. I had hoped to make the 2019 RoG but plans didn't work out,but I was then so far in that the bodywork repairs and painting was Indeed, there was no longer a need to stand on one's head under got out to a couple of minor local shows in Sept...... Looked a foregone conclusion that I had to get her completely finished. the dash to reach wiring, gauges, and dash lights. Simply lift forward to her being at the RoG this year,but not to be.....for all Whilest all this was going on I also had the engine up and the hood and all this became easy to reach and service. Engine of us....Looking forward to 2021 . running,with no nasty rattles etc...I had a suspect thermostat components were also within easy reach "without fatigue or and fortunately (as it turned out) led to a busted bolt in the block even standing on tip toes" because of the truck's low fenders (flat head, straight 6..2.9)..Lifting the c/head exposed broken Colin Tait and wide-opening hood. 16 17 MyMy ClassicClassic 1973 Chrysler New Yorker Brougham

Having sold my 1953 Nash Ambassador, tan interior, 440 c.i. engine with air car. The Schan’s lived in Birmingham, a I was soon back on American eBay, conditioning and everything worked. Detroit suburb! Bill went through the searching the listings for an interesting The dealer told me the price had been entire history of the car. Walter, Bill's new classic American ride. $15,000, and it had been a Grandpa's car. dad, had purchased the Chrysler on the I quickly found a car that appealed: a The family owners now wished to move it 7th July 1973, from Bill Snethkamp one owner Chrysler. The car looked in on, hence the price reduction. Chrysler inc. in Highland Park Detroit for $5,447.50. original condition, low mileage, just The dealer also told me that the car drove 41,000 and at a “buy now” price of $9,500. perfectly with no faults, with all the Walter Schan was a special agent, he sold I telephoned “Best of the Show” The bills together with full service history. cancer protection insurance and used the classic car dealer, who explained he had He suggested that I may like to call the car for business. When Walter retired taken the car in on a consignment stock owners, and he gave me their phone he toured the continent in the Chrysler, basis, as it was too modern for his normal number. visiting most parts of the States. stock. Bill Schan answered my call and he was When I went through the paperwork The Chrysler was a 2-door New Yorker amazed that someone near I found bills for; an alternator in Tallahassee, a service in El Paso and a Brougham, in Honey tan with Gold “ Birmingham” was interested in his dad's new muffler in Portland, The car had indeed travelled. When Walter died, the family kept the car for a few years, but now it was time to find the New Yorker a new home. I just had to buy the car, it seems so nice, and with good history, plus an excellent price; as the Dollar was trading at 1:95 to the Pound in November 2007. The deal was done and the car arrived on my drive at the beginning of April 2008. The Chrysler started up immediately and I drove off the transporter into my garage. Two days of cleaning and polishing made the plates made and on the next Sunday I drove to the AAC UK replaced with a new seal, the car ran perfectly. It always the car look almost new, an oil change Spring Nationals. And I was delighted that my New Yorker won returned 17 to 18 mpg with endless smiles per mile. At the and re-aligning of the headlights, the a trophy for Best Chrysler. Billing show in late August 2009 I received an offer for the car, Chrysler was ready for its MOT. And it For the next two show seasons the Chrysler took me to all and since I had found and bought a 1959 Cadillac, the car I passed easily. Next next day I drove to the shows: Rally of the Giants, Americana, Billing, and to the always wanted, I accepted the offer. I often wish I hadn't, it was the nearest DVLA office at Worcester Chrysler show at Brooklands, where I won the Best Seventies such a good car at little cost, I wonder where the car is now? for the registration. Three days later I Trophy. received the registration number, I had Apart from a small oil leak from the power steering box, easily John Sewell 18 19 Every Chrysler looked huge in 1973, a 124-inch wheelbase and overall however everyone referred to it as the enhanced by blockier lower-body length of 230.1 inches. All New Yorkers ‘New Yorker’ so Chrysler decided to sheetmetal and bigger bumpers that and New Yorker Broughams had the rename their flagship model the ‘New were a federal mandate. biggest passenger-car engine offered by Yorker’ in 1939. This model name Nineteen-fifty-five marked a terrific year entry-level Coronet, Royal, and ornate 1955 Chrysler line up, prompting Bill The 1973 Chrysler New Yorker Chrysler Corporation, the 440 cubic-inch helped define the Chrysler brand as a for Chrysler Corporation in general and Custom Royal, was a major departure Mitchell, head of General Motors styling, Brougham was top of the line and all ’73 V-8. Breathing through a four barrel manufacturer of upscale models, priced Dodge in particular. Coming off a dismal for the company. Driven almost out of to begin redesigning each car line, Chryslers wore a new face, thanks to the carburettor, the engine had a bore and sales performance in 1954, K.T. Keller business in 1953 and 1954, the Chrysler Chevrolet through Cadillac. Exner's new federal 5-mph bumper standards. stroke of 4.326 x 3.75. It produced 215 and equipped above mainstream brands work effectively changed the course of Instead of the loop bumper surrounding horsepower, 30 better than the 400 cu-in like Ford, Chevrolet/Pontiac, and Dodge/ passed Chrysler's presidency onto Tex Corporation was revived with a $250 Colbert, who broke the company down million loan from Prudential. The Dodge the American automotive design. the grille and headlights sported on V-8 standard in the less-fancy Newport Plymouth, but below full luxury brands into divisions and gave chief stylist Virgil lineup was positioned as the mainstream Dodge’s PR guys stated that 1955/56 the ’72s, a large chromed unit now sat and Newport Custom. Worthy of note like Cadillac, Lincoln and Packard. below a newly squared off fascia. It was that on 26th June Chrysler Corporation Exner free rein to remake its products line in Chrysler's hierarchy, pitched Dodges were “New as Tomorrow’s During the New Yorker's tenure, it reminiscent of the contemporary Lincoln builds its one-millionth ’73 model, a visually. That task fell to his staff stylist between DeSoto and Plymouth. Headlines!” competed against upper level models Continental, but without the hidden Chrysler Newport sedan. Maury Baldwin, who came up with a Exner is widely known for the “Forward Style and quality made them fashion from Buick, Oldsmobile and Mercury. "Darrin dip" for the Custom Royal model headlights found on the Lincolns. Chrysler used the ‘New Yorker’ model Look” he created for the 1955 Chrysler leaders and while the famous NASCAR range by running a stainless steel trim It goes almost without saying that these name from 1939 to 1996, it was in The New Yorker had certainly made its marques and was copied before the drivers, Petty and Kiekhaefer helped spear from hood scoop to tail lamps. were very large and very comfortable 1938 that Chrysler launched a new mark, because it is the longest-running designs hit the road, when GM designer Dodge lead the pack on the NASCAR cars. The New Yorker Brougham had model, named the "New York Special" American model nameplate. The 1955 Dodge line up, consisted of the Chuck Jordan spied Exner's hidden track. 20 21 MyMy ClassicClassic 1955 Dodge Custom Royal

My ’55 Dodge Custom Royal is a very similar spec’ to our editor’s John Miller, it’s fitted with a Super Red Ram Hemi engine with 2 barrel carburettor, manual brakes and steering. The car was imported last August by previous owner who lived in Dorset, he ended up having to store it at a relative’s house across town and reluctantly decided to sell as wasn’t able to use it enough. Car shows 78,000 miles which, although I’ve no history to prove, could be genuine. In the short time I’ve had it I’m really impressed with how well it drives & rides, there’s no squeaks/rattles/groans at all, very little wind noise (despite being 4 door with opening quarter lights front & rear. It feels really “tight”, everyone who’s ridden in it is amazed how good it is!! Agree with you on lack of power steering, pain at manoeuvring speed, but once moving pretty precise - radial tyres really help!! Doesn’t have stainless trim on the sills or the splash guards on rear wheel arches, if they’ve been removed and holes filled it’s impossible to see, doesn’t look as though sills have ever been replaced. I’ve since been in touch with owner in Seattle and apparently he had the car for about 4-years, replaced the interior, fitted radial tyres and front disc brakes. The fitment of front disc brakes have greatly improved the braking efficiency, however having no power assistance still means a heavy brake pedal but better than the standard drums brakes. When he bought it from Canada the body/paintwork had already been restored, not perfect, there’s a few small faults on paint, surface rust bubbling up on the black by stainless trims on top of fenders front and rear (window trims), but should be easy to rectify. John Daniel 22 23 American Car & Cars Truck Advertisements Wanted These superior reproduction adverts are from the original manufacturers printed ads that I have collected over many years. These are reprinted on the actual A3 size (16 ½ x 12 inches) paper, with exceptional high colour resolution. My Dear Mr Arnott, comprehensive range of period adverts covers 1900’s to 1969, many of these ads Thanks for chatting earlier. are 2-page spreads, so you will receive 2 As I mentioned, The Grand Tour x A3 pages, providing the complete ad as team are currently looking into it would have appeared in the original the prospect of doing a film on magazine. ‘American Cars in the UK’. I offer totally trouble free ordering, As part of this, we are interested in no exchange rate to worry about, and buying three American ‘compacts’ avoiding expensive USA shipping and to feature in the show. duty costs. So far we have been focussing on My price of £20.00 includes the 2-page vehicles such as: A3 spread, post and packaging. The list of my collection is endless, so please give - AMC Pacers and Gremlins, me a call during the evening to see how I - Chevrolet Chevettes, can help you on 0117 962 2069. - Ford Pintos, Welcome New Members I look forward to hearing from you. - GM X-body vehicles, e.g. Oldsmobile Omega Gordon Phillips - Uckfield...... 1918 American La France- Speedster John S. Warren This list isn’t exhaustive and we Michael Jackson - Woodbridge...... 1972 Dodge W200 Pick up (Pre50AAC member) are open to suggestions as to other Christopher Nash - Bracknell...... 1974 Ford Falcon American automobiles that might sit well alongside those mentioned Alan King - Lincoln...... 1937 Plymouth P4 Sedan above. 1939 Dodge Royal Sedan Due to the relative scarcity of 1941 Chevrolet Special Deluxe Sedan these cars in the UK, I would be 1941 Chevrolet Special Deluxe Sedan extremely grateful if you could circulate my email amongst your Alastair Hunt - High Wycombe ...... 1929 Chrysler 66 Speedster membership. If any of them have Errol Hutchings - Sandhurst ...... 1948 DeSoto Deluxe Two Door Coupe vehicles that they are looking to Philip Marshall - Rotherham...... 1973 Dodge Dart sell, I would invite them to reach out to me using the contact details David Golding - Paddock Wood ...... 1932 Ford Sedan below. David Morris - Toddington ...... 1959 Chevolet 3600 Pick up We aren’t necessarily looking Mark Steel - Beggarwood...... 1951 Chevolet 3800 LWB for something that’s pristine, it Callum Woodgate - Chelmsford...... 1952 Ford Pick-Up just needs to run, so this would be perfect for anyone with a Leon Folkes-Miller - Sudbury...... Ford Falcon restoration project they’ve never Mark Lee - Bournmouth...... 1956 Cadillac Coupe DeVille stop quite got around too. It goes without saying, Covid-19 Dave Mercer - Ringwood...... 1941 Cadillac Series 62 Coupe presser Stephen Hunt - Ferndown...... 1968 Buick Electra 4 door hardtop has made TV production – like many other business activities – Phillip Earwicker - Chard...... 1954 Dodge Custom Royal now cov difficult and the situation remains 1948 Ford Fordor Flathead 6 1900-2000 rather unpredictable. Therefore, I would be grateful for your membership’s discretion regarding this request. Very best wishes, EVENTS 2021 Jerome Lyte Assistant Producer APRIL - Sunday 25th 12.30 Lunch Meet “Ye Olde Saracen’s Head”, Balsall Common, Coventry The Grand Tour JUNE - Sunday 6th Bristol American Car Show, Yate Grand Tour Productions Ltd. 8b Ledbury Mews North JULY - Sunday 11th Rally of The Giants, Blenheim Palace, Wood stock, Oxford Notting Hill OCTOBER - Sunday 31st Annual General Meeting - details to follow London W11 2AF M: +44 (0)7812817647

24 25 FOR SALE 1950 Studebaker Cars for Champion 3 passenger 1928 Buick Sport Business Coupe Sale Roadster

A fabulous example of 1950’s Americana styling. This beautiful classic was restored in the UK in 2007 and has had FOR SALE very little use since, recently removed 1936/38/39 Buick from storage by County Classics. Left hand drive. Set of side-mount covers 2.8 6 cylinder engine, flat head. Offers invited 6 volt positive earth electrics. 1966 Cadillac This example if fitted with the 3 on- Our 1928 Buick, model 28-24X the-tree 3 speed column change manual Rochester 4-jet carburettor Sport Roadster has been a joy gearbox. complete with choke £50 to own and has given us lots Another interesting feature is the II plus carriage. of enjoyment, but the time has clutch pedal starter system, the car is come for us to part with it. started by turning the ignition key on Contact Subject to a body off and then depressing and holding down restoration in Australia the clutch pedal, which in turn pushes John Slayford on the floor mounted starter button, so 20 years ago, prior to our together with manual choke, it does 07850 134 766 ownership, the car had a new take a little time to acclimatize to its timber frame constructed at idiosyncrasies’. Once on the road the car the time, all the steel work drives beautifully. being very sound due to there Imported from the USA in 2007 by 1936 CHRYSLER climate. The car is still in pretty well-known Custom Car Guru Andy good condition. Everything Saunders. Restoration undertaken by AIRSTREAM MODEL works as it should with the its former owner who owned it from addition of subtle indicators to 2007 until February 2020, there are C7 CONVERTIBLE lots of photographs and various bills aid driving in modern traffic. and documentation recoding a lot of the COUPESold WITH As can be seen from the picture, works here in the UK. RUMBLE SEAT it is an eye catching car, a great A great cruiser which runs beautifully, combination of the colour, hood will be fully checked over and serviced colour and wood spoke wheels. on sale. No MOT or road tax required, All sides screens for inclement inexpensive classic car insurance. Parts weather are there. availability is still relatively good with plenty of USA Studebaker specialists In addition to the car, there is and an excellent UK owners club. another mechanically complete Be very different from the crowd with a car for spare parts, this was Studebaker! a functioning item before £25,999 disassembly. Also a pair of front wings, front apron and radiator www.countyclassics.net This is an extremely rare car, I surround and core. These are have never seen another, ready to disassembled for ease of indoor Tel 01452 731289 or drive but really needs painting. storage but could be quickly 07595 218406. RHD Detroit export model, reassembled for transportation. reducing my collection, time for someone else to enjoy. £30,000 ono 01254 888557 or WANTED £20,000 firm As a new Pre50AAC member I am SContactold 07751251812 seeking to purchase a 1937 to 1940 Lincoln Zephyr 3 window coupe, if Colin Rogers; petercornwell55@ you happen to know where there is gmail.com one for sale, please contact me on 01454 318 665 or the following; 07709 246 386 James Simpson T: 44 20 7483 8346 S: 44 20 7586 2777 M: 44 7976 237 784 Email: James.Simpson@ knightfrank.com

26 27 Hughes Print Ltd. Units 4 & 5 Ashford Industrial Estate, Dixon Street, Wolverhampton. WV2 2BX Tel: 01902 457261 Fax: 01902 351508 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.hughesprint.co.uk