Tomorrow I will go to look at a 1959 Sutdebaker Hawk, and since this will be my first Studebaker, I need advice on what to look for and what to look out for. Thanks.
Rust in floor and lower cowl. Frame rust and old collision damage. Treat the hood gently, as it is big and heavy, and the hood hinges are strong. Wouldn't want that baby to buckle while closing it. Since I don't know the quality of car you're looking at, I'd suggest a bit of online research to figure out what belongs on a '59 Hawk, and what doesn't. Best of luck!
Number one thing that doesn't belong in a Studebaker Hawk is a Chevrolet engine - or any other off brand engine for that matter. The Studebaker V-8 is a strong, well designed, and well-built engine with plenty of power. Also gets reasonable gas mileage, and sounds great. Dave.
Go here: http://www.studebakerdriversclub.com/sdcforum.asp You can register(it's free) and ask any questions you may have.
The big thing I'd look for is any rust in the front fenders under the side-vents and where they meet the rockers. There will almost always be some, but rust-through is a problem, and is kind of a pain to fix due to the semi-complicated way that the fender, vent-door, and duct all come together there. Also look under the car in that general area, there is one latitudinal brace per side that tie the frame into the body they like to trap moisture and debris and if they rot through, good luck. That said pretty much every part of every Hawk, and most Studebakers, is available from a great many suppliers, so don't sweat the small stuff like trim and the like...
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