Hot Rods 1949 Chrysler Traveler

I say if you want, split manifold, different head, and more carbs if a manifold is available. Leave everything else alone. Other than getting all the factory stuff working as it should. Maybe disc brakes for safety. You would never come close to getting your money back if you changed the drive train, since it's a 4 dr sedan.

 

Get your favorite sign painter to trick up the outside with vintage Panamerica racing graphics and drive it.

Google search: "vintage 1949 Chrysler panamerica racing"

 

https://imcdb.org/vehicles.php?resu...n&mk=&cl***1=1&origin=&madein=&madefor=&role=

 

It's beautiful! Maybe this is silly, but you could have fun and make a few bucks and join some parties by renting it out for weddings, anniversaries, etc. You driving, of course.

 

A car that cool doesn't need much. I'd maybe drop it a bit and leave it be unless I could dig up some period correct performance parts for it. Even then I'd keep any work clean and minimalist.

 

A little pep for the engine and enjoy!!!

 

It should last a long time if it’s been maintained well and in good condition. I think these engines were more bulletproof that the slant 6 that eventually replaced it.

 

Thanks for the input everyone. For now, the plan is to clean the interior and exterior. Do some routine maintenance while I look for some vintage speed equipment. Maybe an Offy intake and some headers. I will be looking for some of the exterior trim that is a little hammered. No plans of doing any body or paint work for now.

 

Yeah I know this is a Desoto, but just a thought...

 

Looks like a driver to me. I wouldn't do anything but clean and polish.

 

I saw more photos of your car on the AACA website.
Looks great!

 

I love it as it is. Can't be too many of those around in that condition.

 

Does that have the straight 6 flathead, or the straight 8 flathead?

The straight 8 flathead would be able to keep up with todays traffic, and if the brakes are adjusted correctly, they should do pretty well too. There are some easy suspension upgrades for the original suspension that helps drivability if you want to go that way. Dodge made a straight 6 flathead up the 265 ci in the truck division, those too would keep up with todays traffic. Those were very solid cars with great engineering that minor tweaks can improve some things a bit.

A hemi swap is a pretty big change.

 

Hello,

It looks to be in great shape and has plenty of room for a couple with suitcases or a family. At the time, I would drive it the way it is, but some people cannot get over the different color on the rear fender. If so, then re-paint the whole bottom portion.

Although it is for road trips and such drive it until it doesn’t work or too much money is going into it to justify the drain. But, if there is a chance, an A/C system is going to be necessary, for us anyway. Then you might as well move to a v8 motor, the stock motor probably will not be the most enjoyable without A/C on a long road trip for a couple or the family.

Jnaki

One thing we noticed on all of the old cars we have seen and inspected, is the flooring. The carpet absorbs all of the smells and odors from shoes, bags, animals and whatever. The same thing goes when inspecting homes. The carpet installed in rooms takes on the odor/smell of the occupants or animals that reside in the home. Wood flooring or large tiles takes care of that. But, in your old Chrysler, despite the color matching carpeting, one must get used to it real fast or the road trip will not be pleasant. Or even the daily drive to work or play. So, replace the carpeting before any daily usage...YRMV

 

It has the Flat Head 6. It drives fairly well for what it is.

 

Definitely will be on the lookout for a Fulton type sun visor.

 

It's been almost a year since getting the Traveler. Almost a thousand miles have p***ed since purchase.
Only have had to do routine maintenance on it. Definitely doesn't like hot weather. Coolant temp climbs above 200 under heavy load (Mostly up hills). Otherwise, cruises along between 180-190. Haven't really investigated why. But overall, it has been a great cruiser.

 

If it still has the original style radiator, don't try a higher pressure cap. Look at the surface area of that upper tank and then think 15 pounds per square inch to see why.
Glad to hear it's happy being awakened! Enjoy!

 

Good to hear you are driving and enjoying it.

 

These old Mopar flathead sixes had a thin metal coolant distribution tube that ran internally in the block from the front to the rear of the engine. It wasn't uncommon for them to rust away with time and cause overheating problems. Replacements seem to still be available.

https://p15-d24.com/topic/48957-water-distribution-tube-installation/

And look! There's already some other helpful information on curing similar problems on old MoPars right here on the HAMB.

https://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/threads/chrysler-flathead-overheating-help.453329/

 

Since @ClayMart brought it up, this is a good thing to check and flushing until you swear it's gotta be clean, then once more is called for when doing this.

 

Thanks for the links. The PO told me the motor was rebuilt. So, I imagine that had been addressed. But I take that with a grain of salt. Not sure that the distribution tube is something I'd want to fool with. I had read that they may be difficult to replace depending on how corroded they are.