1959 Ford Fairlane 500 Skyliner
VIN: B9EW103593
The 1959 Ford Fairlane Skyliner, also known as the "Retractable", was produced from 1957 to 1959. The Ford Skyliner Retractable was a two-door full-size car that was only the second car in history to be series produced with a retractable hardtop and the first car produced to feature a roof composed of more than one segment. Additionally, the trunk-lid also consisted of two pieces and both the folding roof and trunk-lid are power operated through an exceptionally complex electrical system.
The car presented at auction was acquired out of Lewistown, MT many years ago. In 1998, this Fairlane was placed on loan to the Powell County Auto Museum in Deer Lodge, MT. When the owner passed away in 1999, his son acquired the car and continued displaying it at the Museum. In September 2017, the car was brought to Billings and put back in running condition. This included having the generator rebuilt, the radiator rebuilt, installation of a new water pump, new ram cylinder and new wiring and hoses where needed.
HIstory on the car is limited. The owner recollects his father having the car painted at some point, but does not know of any mechanical work performed. The car displays typical fluid leaks associated with long-term storage, but the car runs and drives and the retractable hardtop runs through the full cycle both up and down.
This is your chance to own a highly collectible Ford hardtop convertible. It is a perfect candidate for a concours level restoration or enjoy the car in its current original condition.
