1953 Nash rambler custom convertible
Meet Betty.
She was an acquaintance of Lois Lane, the other Nash Rambler Custom, convertible.
The current owner acquired two Nash Rambler convertibles a couple years ago from an "orphan car" collector. The original idea when the collector had them, was to restore them both. Unfortunately, the 51 had a cracked block and this 53 was seized.
He replaced the engine on the 51, got her running and she went on her way.
The 53 took a little massaging but the stuck engine finally came to life but was making a horrendous noise. With the head off, it was discovered she had no head gasket and it was also discovered that the oil pan had been installed backwards by some previous owner, even before the collector. He created a new gasket, reinstalled the oil pan correctly and Betty fored up and ran like a top .. well, a slightly smoking top. Betty Grable was a known smoker and so is this Betty, just some blow by, that seems to be getting less and less the more she's run. The owner, very familiar with this era of automobile, feels the rings just need to be set with continued running.
The engine was now doing what it was supposed to, there was some sloppiness and noise coming from the 3 speed overdrive transmission. It was pulled apart and found to have a bad bearing, it was replaced the others checked, found to be OK and reassembled. She shifts just fine now.
Betty would now run and move, she needed to be able to stop securely, so the 4 wheel drum brakes were attended to. Unfortunately, it was found that the right rear hub is a little bent, and a new one wasn't readily available, so it has been shimmed ever so slightly and it's hardly noticeable when driving her.
All the electrical bits work, including the power convertible top. Her original top was in tatters, he was able to source a used one that has a small tear in it, but it fit and moves up and down. It does sometimes need some attention .. this is not a new car, Betty is 72, (55,000 miles on the odometer) so it should be no surprise some things may need a little help now and then. Gauges, lights, horn, the wipers are vacuum operated and currently negatively affect how the engines runs when they're on, so they have been disconnected. They will turn when connected.
The overdrive on the 3 speed manual trans turns on but has been finicky.
She will need tires. These hold air, but not much else.
The original gas tank was removed as it was not reliable and an aftermarket fuel cell installed in the trunk.
Body-wise, she is very solid. The Sea Mist Grey paint definitely needs attention but as a neat convertible cruiser that possibly 5% of those who see her will know what she is, that can be overlooked, at least for the time being. There is a very small non structural hole in the passenger floor.
The owner will provide a folder of all receipts and a notebook with every bit of work done.
So, what you're getting is an orphan car, Nash, that most people will wonder what the heck it is, that can be started and driven with ease. to local cruise nights, shows, etc. She may not win any trophies (but you never know about that survivor class) but you'll have fun, especially meeting all those people who will want to know what she is.
Asking price is $7500.
Any questions, for many more photos and video,to schedule a time to see her in person or to make an offer, please don't hesitate to contact me.
Thank you for the interest!
