Vehicle Description
The street rod world is full of amazing cars with wild paint
schemes, extreme drivetrains and custom interiors that make most
luxury penthouses self-conscious. While those creations are awesome
to look at, ten minute start-up procedures and blind hunts for kill
switches and accessory controls wear on even the most enthusiastic
rodder. Anyone who's been around customs will tell you there is
truly something special about owning an authentic, well-built
classic that can comfortably carry you across the country if the
need arises. This 1946 Ford Super DeLuxe is just that - a
completely functional vehicle wrapped in an awesome, old school
shell. And, since the car is a former Dearborn Award winner, you
can rest assured that it's clean and authentic. Tired of
impractical parade pieces? Take a closer look as this all-steel
Ford!
BODYWORK/TRIM
Approaching this sweet drop-top, it's difficult not to be taken
with its sleek profile. To achieve those striking good looks, the
car had to be a solid starting point that benefitted from top notch
metalwork. And, once that metalwork was complete, it had to be shot
with some of the best Dynamic Maroon two-stage on the market. Now,
I know paintwork is often questionable on wartime classics, but
this Ford's shine is first rate all the way. Reflections are
straight and unbroken. There are no major imperfections visible
anywhere. And overall, the car has aged exceedingly well since its
2002 frame-off restoration.
Essentially a carryover from Ford's pre-war days, the '46 Super
Deluxe is both ergonomic and attractive. The car's classy design
definitely proved its merit aiding the war effort; and today, it's
a stunning example of American industrial elegance. Front and
center, a red-trimmed, '46-exclusive grille anchors streamlined
marker lamps between clean headlights, a sporty "SUPER DELUXE"
emblem and a broad chrome bumper. At the sides of that grille,
textured stainless spans from NOS fenders and an "8" branded hood
topper past dual chrome mirrors and low-profile door handles. Above
that stainless, like-new glass seats small windshield wipers
beneath a burgundy-piped, power-operated roof. And behind that
glass, a stainless-trimmed trunk rides between red-trimmed lighting
and a "Ford" branded bumper.
ENGINE
If Henry Ford perfected one aspect of his automobiles, it was the
Ford V8. Introduced in 1932 as a durable, torque-rich competitor to
more expensive and labor-intensive 8-cylinders, the 'flatty' has
established an unmatched reputation as the go-to mill for classic
and kustom car enthusiasts. And, in keeping with tradition, this
stellar hot rod is powered by a 239 cubic inch 69A. Spinning smooth
6.75 to 1 compression into exactly 100 horsepower and 180 lb./ft.
of torque, the throaty engine growls with the help of a roster of
vintage parts. Air enters through a correctly decaled cleaner and,
juiced by a small Holley carburetor, exits through correct, cast
iron exhaust manifolds. Pliable belts turn a traditional generator
while a beefy radiator cycles water through big hoses and tight
screw clamps. Aesthetically, the block, which perches a
correctly-decaled oil canister on 24-stud heads, has been painted a
familiar blue hue. Cool details like metal-loomed wires, a Ford
battery and a correct horn add enough shine to sit at the show. And
overall, this classic's super smooth engine bay is a charming and
100% functional step back into a much simpler, and some would say
better, period of American automotive history.
DRIVETRAIN/SUSPENSION
Take a look under this roaring rag-top and you'll see just how much
the automotive world has changed when it comes to ride, handling
and structural integrity. The car's body-matched floors make a
suitable backdrop for a Satin Black frame and factory-accurate
suspension. A correct, 3-speed manual transmission sends power to a
Columbia electric, 2-speed axle. In front of that drivetrain, a
beam axle and transverse leaf spring remain just as they looked
back in 1946. And the same holds true behind that drivetrain, where
a second leaf and the aforementioned Columbia add integrity and
grip. 4-wheel drum brakes are a welcome addition and big
performance upgrade. There's a familiar, single-pipe exhaust system
which, with the help of a beefy turbo muffler, gives the flathead
its unmistakable voice. And everything rides on painted and
pinstriped wheels, which spin fresh 6.00-16 BF Goodrich Silvertown
whitewalls around stylized trim rings and "FORD" branded hub
caps.
INTERIOR
Open the car's doors and you'll find a simple but stylish interior.
The good looks start with factory-style side panels that combine
wood-themed toppers with small armrests and correct chrome
hardware. Step in to the cockpit and find your footing on correct
pedals, which are framed by clean, stain-free carpet. Your current
seating position is provided by a tidy maroon bench that, like its
aft counterpart, is wide enough for about three people. In front of
you, the factory steel dash anchors rebuilt gauges at the sides of
optional heat and a vintage radio. Control is granted through a
large, Ford-branded steering wheel, which spins a chrome horn ring
around a correct shifter and retro turn signal indicator. And
luggage is stowed in a cavernous trunk that features a full-size
spare tire.
DOCUMENTATION
The sale of this timeless Ford includes a vintage Operator's Manual
and judging sheets for the car's 1991 Dearborn Award.
In summary, this cool convertible is the perfect car for someone
who wants a fully-sorted cruiser that's more substantial than the
latest 'fiberglass fantastic'. The work is done, the money is
spent, and the result is a great-looking classic that you can drive
home for a fraction of its original cost. If you're shopping for a
professional build that features an unbeatable combination of old
school style and vintage appeal, your search is officially
over!
SUMMARY
Correct 239 cubic inch Ford V8
Correct 3-speed manual transmission
16-inch wheels
All-steel body
Dynamic Maroon paint
Power convertible top
Leather interior
Optional heater