Anybody have a complete 1953 or 54 Chevy Wagon?

I need help referencing a part for the rear hatch that I don't have. It is the latch that is on the back side of the "T" handle. It's what turns to line up with the striker plate on the tailgate. I would love to see a detailed picture of the part or any information to where I could buy that part. If I can't find one to buy, I'm going to try fabricating something out of steel. I would need to have the dimensions (HxWxL) and how to attach it to the squared rod on the back of the handle. This should be the same on the 53 & 54 wagons, could on other years too. Thanks in advance for any help!

 

I have a '53 wagon that I'm building now. If you need the picture, I'll try to snap one tomorrow when it's more light outside. I know there's a '54 wagon at the Antique Auto Ranch, here in Spokane and I think it still has the latch on it. Give them a call and ask: (509) 535-7789. They're open from 8-noon on Saturdays.

 

I'll check back in a few days. If you don't get a pic. I can go take a pic. of mine (an 85k mile survivor bought brand new by my grandfather).

 

I'm still looking for the latch piece or photos if anyone can help.
Thanks!

 

I'll take a picture, did you call the Antique Auto Ranch?

 

Those are hard to find. took me a year to find mine. I do not see a picture of mine in my photos.. I actually came across a 53 forsale here locally I might go look at. I have been wanting another since I sold me (worse thing I ever did)

 

Thanks Wayfarer,
I'll try to call them today or tomorrow. Are they located in Spokane?

 

Do you remember how much you dropped yours and how?


Mine needs to be dropped right away. I feel like I'm a Suburban or something.

 

I finally got around to taking some pictures for you. My wagon was originally the same color combination as yours until it was "restored" sometime in the 80's. Now I'm putting it back together the right way. As of this weekend, it's sitting on a mustang II and the front radiator crossmember sits 11 1/2" off the ground. The rear has 3" lowering blocks on it. Anyway, here are your pictures:










Hopefully, you can scale what you need off the pictures.

 

Oh, and it doesn't connect to the T-handle. The square shank just fits into it like a door handle on older chevies.

 

Thanks for the great detailed photos wayfarer. I'll figure out something to get me by.
I'm getting ready to install my 3" blocks and cut the front 1 1/2 coils to see where it puts me for now. Should be fun!