Vehicle Description
1953 Ford Crestline Sunliner
The shoebox Ford starting in 49 was a big success and a slight
redesign came in 1952. Although the overall shape was still similar
the look was modified in a lot of places included a new grill
design and very cool rear fender accents in lieu of skirts. A few
different models were available starting in 52 which included the
Crestline which was considered the top level. The Crestline was
then split into to groups which included the Sunliner convertibles
and Victoria hardtops. The car you see here is a nice 53 and this
is a very special year in Ford history. This was actually the 50th
anniversary for Ford and all of the vehicles released that year
came with a special commemorative steering wheel which this classic
still has a NOS wheel in place. While this car has the original
look and a lot of the original features it has been all redone in
more of a resto-mod style. This car has always been in Texas and
was originally put into storage in 1971 where it sat for 45 years.
It was purchased in 2016 along with a 40 year collection of NOS
parts. It was then totally redone. It was not a frame off
restoration but that is not because it was too much work. The
chassis was thoroughly inspected and the decision was made that it
was just too solid and nice to pull the body. It is painted in
Sungale Ivory that has a nice finish and looks great. The body is
completely rust free and doesn't show any signs of damage or
repair. All of the exterior pieces like the bumpers, bumper guards,
side trim, and even door handles were replaced with NOS parts. All
of it shines nicely and has zero pitting or issues. The new Hartz
Black convertible hydroelectric power top raises/lowers easily. The
wheels are the originals with a new set of NOS wheel covers and
wide white wall Diamond back radial tires.
Looking at the car from the outside there is nothing indicating
that the drivetrain is anything other than the original 6 cylinder
or Flathead. Pop the hood though and you will see it has been
entirely redone. Before you Ford guys get too nervous check out
that distributor location because this classic is still Ford
powered! Getting those wheels turning now is a 302 cubic inch V8
that has been completely rebuilt. The motor runs extremely smooth
with no smoking or issues. It even features custom valve covers, an
Edelbrock RPM air gap intake, chrome air cleaner, Taylor wires, and
more. The engine compartment itself has been redone nicely as well
with the typical Black inner fenders/firewall being redone to match
the body. Cooling is of no concern due to the aftermarket aluminum
radiator with electric push fans. The brakes have been redone with
disc up front and they are power. When initially photographed the
power brake booster had not yet been installed but pictures are
available. A Borgenson power steering system has also been added.
The transmission is a rebuilt C4 automatic that sends power back to
the Granada 8 inch rear end. It is pretty cool to think that this
53 now has the drivetrain featured in a lot of the early
Mustangs!
The interior of the car is complete in a Maroon color which
contrasts perfectly with the lighter exterior. All of the
upholstery work from the seats to the door panels and carpet are
new. The interior was done by Shawn Cook Custom Interiors. It has a
split bench up front and full bench in the rear. That commemorative
steering wheel sits nicely in front of the driver and is matches
the upholstery color. All of this was completed by Hartz interiors
and was very well done. The dash matches the body and features the
original gauge layout and a deluxe radio that was converted to FM.
The trunk of the car is cleanly done as well in Black and is
solid.
There really isn't a weak area anywhere on this classic and it is a
beautiful example of one of these cars. If this is the model you
are after but want to be able to hop in and drive anywhere look no
further!
Give this Sunliner a new home for $45,000.00!
NOW REDUCED DOWN TO $39,500.00!
Check out the video at https://youtu.be/pgoeVwUGSX0
