That is all good information and in general is true, but it's just not that simple. Very early '38 Deluxes are not the same as very late '38 Deluxes and there was some mixing in the middle as well as trim options. '39 Standards as far as I have seen all had the same sheet metal but there were some trim options there as well as the black '39 sedan above shows.
So is mine a late 38? I was told that someone had to change this one but I do not see where any 38 trim holes have been welded shut. It has a 38 body and a 39 Front sheet metal,
Since any car can be modified, it's impossible to guess what it's birth certificate might say. But there is zero doubt that the hood, grille, and side panels are from a 39 Standard. I used to own an unmolested '39 Standard and currently own a '38 Deluxe.
Do you have a picture of the back? One wiper makes me think Standard but the stainless trim on the grill makes me wonder. I don't know what add ons were available. I'm sure there were also Canadian variations as well. And who knows what was done before you got the car. I remember seeing '38-'39s with '40 Deluxe front ends. Like I said before it's not simple or maybe I am.
'38 Standards had one wiper. '39 Standards had two wipers. Here's a handy guide to identifying '37-'40 Ford Deluxe and Standard, as well as Mercury '39-'40
Cowl is totally different, battery is in the firewall on 39 standard and earlier, Deluxe and 40 had it on a tray on the frame. The front cross member, radiator, generator, crank pulley... all different.
The Jalopy Journal
