1949 DeSoto Custom Series 4 Door Sedan
VIN# S1383301
Mileage Shown: 50384
Engine: 237 cu.in. Flat head Inline 6 cyl
Transmission: Three speed Tip-toe Fluid Drive with optional Factory under-drive
Clean Washington State Title
Departing from the design of pre-war models, the 1949 Desoto had a completely restyled body shell, characterized by a taller roof structure and shorter overhangs at the front and rear. The Custom Series featured extra chrome trim on the front fenders, an enriched interior and the semi-automatic Tip-Toe Shift with Fluid Drive hydraulic transmission that allowed the company to advertise “DeSoto lets you drive without shifting!” Base price new in 1951 was $2,174.
This 1949 DeSoto 4 door Custom is a solid original car with a decent repaint and solid body and floors. The car sports a dealer badge on the glove box Winthrop motors, DeSoto – Plymouth, Tacoma. The car has the factory underdrive which was a special order option as well as a Heater, Clock, Radio, extra exterior trim such as door handle guards and the bumper over rider front, and optional interior rear armrests. This model was advertised by Desoto as “Designed with you in mind“.
The dash and instruments are present and in good condition. The carpet and interior appears to be original to the car. The front carpet shows wear and is faded; the front seat upholstery is covered by an aftermarket seat cover. This would be a great car to make a solid reliable driver. The floors and body are solid. The windows look good but we wish to note that there is a crack in the lower windshield and a chip in the left rear door glass.The bumpers, exterior trim, bright moldings and hubcaps are all there and are very presentable!
The engine is complete but appears to have a bit of a coolant leak at the middle core plug and at the water pump. The engine oil and fluids have been freshly changed; the engine does turn over by hand. No battery will come with the car. The transmission is a Fluid Drive and has the optional under-drive controlled by a button on the end of the shifter. The correct spare wheel and tire are in the trunk.
The car has been part of a large private collection for many years, has been kept inside and regularly tended and cleaned. From sitting the brakes will need all wheel cylinders, master cylinder and front shoes. The Park brake does work. Tires look good for display but recommend replacing before driving.
