Vehicle Description
1909 Sears Model-K Runabout. Older Restoration. Serial No.( K3016)
The Sears Motor Buggy offered here is the Model K version with
fenders, lights and a top. Shown Hershey AACA Annual Fall Meet
1957, Glidden Tour 1957-1958. Sears, Roebuck and Co. offered buyers
with a convenient way of purchasing a vehicle at the turn of the
century - just by opening a catalog and placing an order. The Sears
Motor Buggy was available for purchase by mail order and ranged in
price from $325 to $475 depending on which model was selected. All
of the models were powered by a mid-mounted engine that displaced
50 cubic-inches and offered around 10 horsepower. The drive was to
the rear wheels via two chains and a variable speed friction-drive
mechanism. Braking was by friction-pad brakes and there were
four-wheel elliptic-spring suspension. Perhaps the most
distinguishable feature about these motor buggys were the large,
38-inch wheels that were fitted with hard rubber tires. This height
offered excellent ground clearance over the muddy rural roads. The
company's slogan for their vehicles were 'Lowest in Original Cost -
Lowest in Upkeep Cost,' and 'so safe that a child could run it.' In
the end Sears discovered that it cost more to produce their little
car than it was selling for and it was discontinued in 1912. Sears
was not done as they would also offer the AllState car in 1952, but
the Motor Buggy from Sears represents a time when simplicity ruled
the road and life was much more modest.� For the discriminating
collector of early cars, this Sears Model K Runabout is a charming
reminder of how purchasing a new motorcar could be done from the
pages of a catalog. The Sears Motor Buggy offered here is out of a
prominent collection and has not been publicly offered in years.
This Sears is the deluxe Model K version with fenders, lights and a
top. Being first shown in 1957 this car is now considered an older
restoration. Although still very presentable it does show signs of
wear and paint loss as seen in the photos. The different show and
tour plaques are mounted in the rear of the car dating from
1957-1958. When this car was chosen to be restored you had the
luxury of picking out a good solid unrestored vehicle complete with
an original body, chassis, hardware and accessories. Although we
have not started this vehicle yet we feel if will run with very
little effort. We plan on starting the car in the near future so we
can drive it and do a full evaluation. This is a great opportunity
to obtain a proper, authentic and correctly restored Sears
Autobuggy. This Sears is fully eligible for HCCA events and could
be used on the 1 and 2 cylinder Tours. Please let us know if you
need any additional information or if we can be of any other
assistance.
