Starting over.. need advice

First post... spend most of the time over on the dodge diesel sites (my 5th wheel hauler shakes the rollers at 475 rwhp;)) anyway I sold my past rig:CRY: see signature and am looking for a project to do with my two kids as they grow up just like I had done to me, as a kid.

Anyway I am looking for a 30's somthing I think, along the lines of a 3 window coupe but maybe in a dodge if there is. I have a donor car ready that I want o use, it is a 78 plymouth volare' with a 360 auto, it was my dad's first "new" car and I am trying to encorperate three generations in the car I am building, I hope to use all the running gear from the volare', I like the two seater units but wouldn't be object to somthing my wife and the kids could all cruise in. Suggestions of cars to keep a look for or maybe pics.

Glad to be member of the site looks well run.

Thanks again

Jason:D

Since no one is jumping right on this one, maybe I'll get it started. I think the 360 and drivetrain are a great start, especially since you have some history and attachment via your Dad owning it since new.

I think the logical car to put this package in would be another Chrysler product, such as a Dodge or Plymouth from the late '30's. The '38-'39's I see selling seem to go for a very reasonable amount, compared to Fords of that era. Their engine compartments aren't the widest, as they originally held straight 6's, but it should still be do-able.

For suspension, I would use something like a Fatman or other Mustang II set up, and out back an 8 inch Ford, or maybe your Volare' rear, if the width isn't too much. If you choose one of the sedans in either a 2 or 4 door version, the cost will be significantly less than the coupe version, and you will have room for that family you mentioned.

Outfitted with Air , cruise, with comfy seats, one of these cars would be a great long distance cruiser. Parts are still no problem, and the bodies seem to be built out of some of the heaviest gauge steel I've seen (we're chopping my '39 Dodge pickup, and have burned up a few cutting disks)

I wouldn't change the frame, as they are pretty beefy as is, and I really like the idea of keeping the engine and body in the same family. With a simple paint job, simple wheels, and a nice interior, this would be a standout from all the other, more common brands out there.

Just my thoughts................

Thanks for the reply don, I did some searching before joining here since I have always been into the 50-70's era cars/trucks and never really thought about prior years for some reason, my knowledge base is small. Anyway the late 38-39 dodges are nice but a little boxy, unless I chopped the roof fairly sinificant(unless I am picturing the wrong years), To be honest the body look I like is the same or close to the picture of the forums decal on the top of the page, kinda a boydster I guess.... I realize they are the big craze which will make them more expensive, but half the fun of finding a ride is looking for one, I can recall spending many weekends in farm feilds and behind barns looking for my 56.

I am no expert just trying to narrow down the search possiblites

Sounds like you are getting it sorted out.

Good luck............

how about a 38 studebaker or a 39 nash both coupes or a 32 willeys 3 window coupe ( i think its a 3 window)or a 46 chevy coupe. and if he still has it a 35 ford 5 window. a friend of mine has these cars out at his farm by lincoln ne. if any of these trip your trigger let me know and ill get pics and prices for you.ill make a phone call today to se if a 35 dodge 4door secan is still for sale or if the guy sold it if that would be something you might want. hey if any wants these cars let me know but green works gets first choice. good luck finding what. take your time looking get what you want dont settel for something just because it was easy to find. dennis

I've always liked the '33 and '34 Mopar coupes, you would probably have to do a ton of searching to find one. You could try the "parts cars" section on Ebay, they show up their from time to time.