Can anyone tell me how come there is a difference in the grille bars on the side panels on a 38 standard. Some have completetly straight grille bars while some have a slight dip in them that gives the impression of a continuation up the side panel of a 37 style grille. I doubt that I've explained clearly so I've included a couple of pics. Was there a change in the stampings during the year making a difference between those made earlier in the year, compared to those produced later in the year, or were they made in two different places?
I see what you are referring to but my "Illustrated History of Ford" book only mentions that, "At mid-year, Ford decided to install horizontal chrome trim bars in the grille to enhance the model's frontal styling". I would guess that they were made buy a different plant or supplier. I know that '37 side panels were made at different plants and vary slightly in their shape, probably the same deal. Don't know for sure though.
I have never noticed that before. I am going to check out my photos to see what I wasn't seeing. Here's mine.
Those white upper grill panels don't look factory. My dad has a '38 Standard- I have only seen the second style in 30 years of looking at '38 Standards. Dad's car. One of 12 made at the factory with all the stainless.
I have never noticed that before, but then again there is VERY few 38 standards here in Oz. It seems they all went to the great WWII scrapper. Mine had the 'lumps' in them as did every other one I have seen, leads me to believe that it would either be a factory stamping thing or an owner tidying up the front. I always thought they would look cleaner without the 'lumps' wish I had one of those grilles! Doc. PS, Jim, only 12 with all the stainless? Is that in the sedan delivery's or all 38 standards in the US? I still have a complete set for the coupe that I didn't use.
my dad has 3 38's none deluxe and all nose's are different. some have the grooves/notches, some do not, all three are different lengths too.
My dad has a tudor sedan and he has owned it since 63 and is the second owner his grille does not have the lumps. it is just like the white one and we have extra set of side panels that are the same just in case we ever need them. His was a org 85 hp car I had always wondered if the diff was what engine came in the from the factory? My dads car has the stainless also and so does the extre grille that we have.
WOW!!! Learned something! Thanks guys! Honestly in 30 years I've only seen two hoods and one pair of upper grille pieces not on a car. The stuff is super rare!
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