1942 Ford Deluxe

The Ford car was thoroughly updated in 1941, in preparation for a time of unpredictability surrounding World War II. The 1941 design would continue in an aborted 1942 model year and would be restarted in 1946 and produced until 1948 when the more modern 1949 Fords were ready. During the initial year of this car, it evolved considerably. The front fenders came in three pieces, the theory being that small damages could be replaced easily. During the year, it evolved into two pieces with the lower front and back sections being joined. The hood risers changed, the early ones being the same as 1940 Fords, changing during the year to the better later version.

The 1942 model year lasted only four months before the government ordered a halt to civilian automobile production starting on February 10, 1942. So, for consignment, an original 1942 Pre War shutdown Super Deluxe which has gone through the restoration mill about 10 years ago, the decision was made to upgrade to a 12 volt system. An award-winning head turner with a Flathead V8, nice paint and new bumpers it's a nice presentation and a pre war numbers car, which means there are not a lot of these left. And some upgrades thrown in for ease of operation and snappy looks on the interior

Exterior
The “electric shaver” grille, 3 part fenders for easier repairs in case of a mishap, and no running boards are just a few of the traits that came with this new design. Our example is bathed in miles deep maroon, with a bit of splotches particularly on the sides of this car. Otherwise, it has well minded gaps, no rust. Snappy lines and curves were coming of age and this car is the definition of this design trend of the early 40's. Plenty of chrome trimmings which would be done away with during war production, (Ford solved this problem by using silver paint!), however this car has the chrome appearing in various areas like the beltline spear, rocker trim, and mid fender accenting spears. The line of the back of this car is nothing short of spectacular with its long sloping trundled and rear glass on either side for the rear passengers emulating the line of the C pillar. It just has the 40's look that has become very desirable and even hints at aerodynamic thought, although it was not a concern in 1942. All finishes are excellent and body matching wheels wrapped in wide whites and covered in the middle with the dog dish caps all chromed and we can now say Hee Haw!

Interior
With a swing of the doors we can see efforts were made to retain its original charm with tan broadcloth seat coverings, maroon vinyl covered tubs and two tone door panels in the same colorway form. All this floating in a sea of deep red carpeting. The original chromed art deco inspired dash in maroon painted metal and lots of chrome trimming is in front of the large steering wheel with complete circular horn ring and cloisonné Ford center badge. Nice presentation for this dash which retains its originality but does have all new Dakota digital gauges and a working clock on the passenger's side. A tan felted headliner is above and is nice with no stains. The rear bench is looking comfy and now Vintage Air and heat are added in so you can go and show in less than desirable weather.

Drivetrain
Under the long bulbous hood within the fully restored engine is a flat head V8 showing 239 cubes with a single 2-barrel carburetor under an original oil bath air cleaner. A 3-speed manual transmission is on back with a 3.78 rear axle installed in this model. All looking good in chromed metal hose extensions and black shiny restored bolt ons for this healthy mill. A new aluminum radiator is in and some of the hoses for the Vintage Air and heat are seen and looking like new. The heads were rebuilt in 2020, and there is a new fuel cell and carb, with an electronic distributor.

Undercarriage
No surface rust on the X frame and floor pans and some light patina, but solid as a rock underneath on the structural end. We note some new components for the fuel delivery to the engine, and a stock style single style exhaust. Transverse leaf springs for the suspension are on as also are drum brakes on all 4 corners.

Drive-Ability
Just a solid car and looking great as we were off for the test drive. This car started right up and ran smoothly, great acceleration from the Flathead V8, and good cornering. Braking requires a bit of planning but overall bias free and they work! All functions were working like we just drove off the showroom floor.

A head turner, nice finish and good job on the restoration of this vehicle. Pre war car just before the cut off in 1942, you will have all chromed trimmings, a flathead V8, and 40's design that drips aerodynamic looks. Time to go back in time and enjoy the simpler things in life, all in maroon painted and chrome trimmed glory.

Classic Auto Mall is a 336,000-square foot classic and special interest automobile showroom, featuring over 650 vehicles for sale with showroom space for up to 1,000 vehicles. Also, a 400 vehicle barn find collection is on display.
This vehicle is located in our showroom in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, conveniently located just 1-hour west of Philadelphia on the I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. The website is www.classicautomall.com and our phone number is (888) 227-0914. Please contact us anytime for more information or to come see the vehicle in person.