Vehicle Description
Like most American cars of the early post-war era, Chevrolet's 1946
models were essentially warmed-over versions of their 1942 lineup.
Americans were clamoring for new vehicles, and it was the Big Three
did everything they could to meet demand amidst material shortages
and the time and expense of retooling from supporting the war
effort. Chevrolet quickly assumed the role of the sales leader with
their conservatively styled and engineered Stylemaster,
Fleetmaster, and Fleetline series. Based around the overhead-valve,
cast-iron "Stovebolt" inline-six, these cars were robust,
economical, and of outstanding quality. With roots going back to
1929, the dutiful Stovebolt six served General Motors for some
seventy years in various forms. Between '46 and '48, not much
changed in the Chevy line except for some minor trim and equipment
variations. Customers seemed perfectly content with this, as they
kept Chevrolet firmly in the lead of the sales charts. Typical for
the era, Chevy offered a diverse range of body styles. Prices
started at $1,380 for the 2-door Town Sedan and climbed up to
$2,013 for the Fleetmaster Station Wagon. The 1948 model year
marked the end of an era, as it was the final year for Fisher's
beautifully crafted all-wood station wagon. While it shared the
same 116-inch wheelbase chassis, the wagon was 207-inches long
overall, which allowed for a capacious, eight-passenger interior.
The labor-intensive nature of building these cars drove up the
price and kept sales down, with just over 10,000 built - compared
to more than 93,000 four-door sedans. This 1948 Chevrolet
Fleetmaster wagon is a marvelous example that is the subject of an
award-winning restoration and presents with a lightly mellowed
character following years of enjoyment. A Pennsylvania car for much
of its life, the first owner was from Philipsburg, not far from
State College, PA, and the car still wears its original 1948 state
inspection sticker in the windshield! It is believed the second
owner purchased the car in the early 1950s. An avid collector and
lifelong member of the AACA, the second owner kept the Chevy in his
care for the next 55 years. His time with the car included a
high-quality restoration in the late 1980s/early 1990s which earned
it an AACA National First Prize in 1991, followed by a Grand
National First Prize in 1992. The restorers were careful to
preserve significant original features, such as the original 1948
date-coded Hi-Test Safety Glass. As a Deluxe model, it includes
rare and desirable equipment, including rear fender skirts, a
fully-enclosed rear-mounted spare wheel, deluxe heater, and factory
AM radio. The current owner acquired the Chevy in 2014, and it
presents today with a matured restoration that invites regular
enjoyment. The Oxford Maroon paint is excellent, finished to a high
standard and exceptionally well-maintained. There are a few minor
touchups that do little to detract from the overall presentation.
Woodwork is in similarly excellent condition, with a warm luster to
the varnish and solid ash-frame structure with beautiful mahogany
panels. Doors open and shut well, including the large tailgate that
also carries the fully enclosed spare wheel. Brightwork and plating
are quite good, and the car wears original deluxe trim including
the lower rocker moldings and stainless chip guards on the rear
fenders. Likewise, the bumpers and intricate grille are in
excellent condition, with just some light hazing to the finish from
age. Form follows function inside the cabin, with the seats
upholstered in original-style brown vinyl material, rubber-lined
floors, and rich interior woodwork finished to the same high
standard as the exterior. The dash features gorgeous
woodgrain-effect paint and houses the factory pushbutton radio
flanked by the large round speedometer and clock. Minor instruments
such as the fuel and temp gauges sit directly in front of the
driver, along with a beautifully restored original steering wheel.
Lifting the hood reveals a highly-detailed Stovebolt OHV
inline-six, finished appropriately in gray with gloss black
ancillaries and inner panels. Components such as the manifolds and
carburetor show some evidence of use, while the paint on the block
and valve cover is in excellent condition. The wiring, plumbing,
and minor hardware all appear period correct and appropriate for a
high-level AACA award winner. The engine runs well, sending power
through a column-shifted three-speed manual transmission, and the
most recent owner has enjoyed the Fleetmaster in local events,
parades, and shows. Like similar cars of the era, the wood body
attributed to a high attrition rate. By the 1950s, California
surfers were snapping up cheap used woodies to haul people and
boards from beach to beach. Hot rodders, too, took to the
Fleetmaster's lines and as a result, very few unmodified examples
exist. The next owner of this lovely Fleetmaster is sure to delight
in the beautifully mellowed restoration and attractive colors. This
rare and delightful Chevrolet is ideally suited for enjoying on
family picnics or cruising unhurriedly to your favorite country
retreat. Trades welcome and offers considered.
