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59 Desoto convertible
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w.weiland
Posted 2013-08-17 7:11 PM (#391892)
Subject: 59 Desoto convertible


Expert

Posts: 1482
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Location: Lordstown, Ohio
Well after several years of searching, I have aquired a Desoto conv. Its a 59 Firesweep. Not really my first choice, would much rather have a 57-58. But hey, its a start.
So here's some thoughts
1, restore it to its former self
2, resto-mod late model efi and the like
3, use it for a donor towards a 57-58 hardtop

PS, is a 59 Dodge 361 engine the same as the one thats in here now

Edited by w.weiland 2013-08-17 7:16 PM




(1959 Desoto conv 003.jpg)



(1959 Desoto conv 004.jpg)



(1959 Desoto conv 005.jpg)



(1959 Desoto conv 006.jpg)



(1959 Desoto conv 009.jpg)



(1959 Desoto conv 011.jpg)



(1959 Desoto conv 015.jpg)



(1959 Desoto conv 019.jpg)



(1959 Desoto conv 021.jpg)



(1959 Desoto conv 024.jpg)



(1959 Desoto conv 031.jpg)



(1959 Desoto conv 034.jpg)



(1959 Desoto conv 035.jpg)



Attachments
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Attachments 1959 Desoto conv 003.jpg (130KB - 357 downloads)
Attachments 1959 Desoto conv 004.jpg (149KB - 165 downloads)
Attachments 1959 Desoto conv 005.jpg (159KB - 156 downloads)
Attachments 1959 Desoto conv 006.jpg (125KB - 178 downloads)
Attachments 1959 Desoto conv 009.jpg (129KB - 160 downloads)
Attachments 1959 Desoto conv 011.jpg (116KB - 179 downloads)
Attachments 1959 Desoto conv 015.jpg (155KB - 161 downloads)
Attachments 1959 Desoto conv 019.jpg (163KB - 288 downloads)
Attachments 1959 Desoto conv 021.jpg (163KB - 223 downloads)
Attachments 1959 Desoto conv 024.jpg (159KB - 172 downloads)
Attachments 1959 Desoto conv 031.jpg (125KB - 200 downloads)
Attachments 1959 Desoto conv 034.jpg (126KB - 176 downloads)
Attachments 1959 Desoto conv 035.jpg (135KB - 175 downloads)
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christine-lover
Posted 2013-08-17 7:16 PM (#391893 - in reply to #391892)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible



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Posts: 2996
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Location: Sept. 1958
Congrats, that's a very rare car. I would choose restore to original, and if you want to change colors, engine to what was offered, do it.

Or offer to trade for a 57 or 58 convertible in similar condition.
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rogerh
Posted 2013-08-17 8:17 PM (#391900 - in reply to #391892)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible


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Posts: 455
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Location: seattle, Wa.
Sell it to someone who WANTS it!
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Myke
Posted 2013-08-17 9:42 PM (#391910 - in reply to #391900)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible



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Posts: 1110
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Location: Tulare Ca
I would Restore To Original Or Original-Like, But Im A Little Bit Of a Purist.
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The Chrysler Kid
Posted 2013-08-17 9:51 PM (#391914 - in reply to #391892)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible



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Location: Ocala, Florida
What a cool find!
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Finsinthemirror
Posted 2013-08-17 9:55 PM (#391917 - in reply to #391910)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible



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Location: CA
IMO if you've got good metal/body/restoration skills get a rust-free 2-dr car and restore this '59 back to its original glory. Drive it around for awhile and get lots of compliment and see if it grows on you, if not sell it and get what you're really after. It looks like all the hard to find conv parts are present and in decent condition but the lower body metal is bad. Restore it original, drive it and give 'er a shot, if you don't like it and still want a 57 or 58 sell it. At the restored point it won't be hard to get some decent money out of it especially if it's done well and original.
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ronbo97
Posted 2013-08-17 11:08 PM (#391931 - in reply to #391917)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible


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Location: Connecticut

WOW ! So rare ! Would love to see this brought back to original.

What happened to the right quarter ? Looks like it got too close to a campfire (or garage fire).

Ron

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rockerarm
Posted 2013-08-17 11:31 PM (#391937 - in reply to #391892)
Subject: RE: 59 Desoto convertible



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w.weiland - 2013-08-17 7:11 PM Well after several years of searching, I have aquired a Desoto conv. Its a 59 Firesweep. Not really my first choice, would much rather have a 57-58. QUOTE]

It's supprisenly complete. Great find. It needs to get into the hands of someone who will show it the love it needs to be restored to it's original glory.

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d500neil
Posted 2013-08-17 11:43 PM (#391938 - in reply to #391937)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible



Exner Expert 19,174 posts. Neil passed away 18 Sep 2015. You will be missed, Neil!

Posts: 19146
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Location: bishop, ca
Definitely resto-MOD it, using the cheapest, most convenient, aftermarket-available parts that you can find.

Dont forgret the disc brakes, 17" wheels, and the best ghetto-sound system that you can afford.

JappoKorean metalflake colors are always desireable, and don't forget the cross-rams.

Why restore a 1959 Chrysler product?

That would only take more time and money.

Do it the cheapest way possible.

That's where the satisfaction is.



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main-wire
Posted 2013-08-18 12:25 AM (#391941 - in reply to #391892)
Subject: RE: 59 Desoto convertible


Member

Posts: 49
25
W-
Now that you've searched for years and come up with your second choice, your first choice will show up soon. It always happens, right? I agree with rogerh that you should sell it to somebody who has a '59 as their first choice. If you keep it, I vote for restoration back to original. These cars were like customs compared to other '59s from the competition when they were new. I think you or your buyer may be one of the last to find a '59 Desoto convertible that can be saved. Good luck!
Waynus
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w.weiland
Posted 2013-08-18 7:54 AM (#391960 - in reply to #391892)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible


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Location: Lordstown, Ohio
Well my choice is to restore it. Yes its true after you get second choice first one pops up within 2 weeks. I already have a big patch panel lined up. Car was wrecked in rear. Some folks think I'm foolish for buying this. My dads one friend called me a dumbdonkey for even considering it(Chevy fan). And it is complete other then the missing floor and quarter metal

Still need a answer if a 59 Dodge 361 engine and trans is the same
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Windsor59
Posted 2013-08-18 8:04 AM (#391961 - in reply to #391960)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible



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Posts: 2596
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Location: Upplands Väsby, Sweden
Wow you found a conv projektcar, great find
Have you this "belt" moulding (3 parts) to the car?

And I say like christine-lover "I would choose restore to original, and if you want to change colors, engine to what was offered, do it."
or sell it.

Edited by Windsor59 2013-08-18 8:12 AM




(1959 Desoto conv 011.jpg)



Attachments
----------------
Attachments 1959 Desoto conv 011.jpg (119KB - 162 downloads)
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bbrasse1
Posted 2013-08-18 8:12 AM (#391962 - in reply to #391960)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible


Extreme Veteran

Posts: 537
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Location: Upstate NY
I am not knowledgable on Dodges but my 58 Firedome has a 361 and I see what appears to be a torqueflite 3 speed transmission from the buttons. I thought most Dodges has a two speed powerflite but there are guys here that can quickly answer that. GOOD LUCK WITH THE CAR! Lots of work and money there but if you stick with it it will be worth it.
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w.weiland
Posted 2013-08-18 8:17 AM (#391963 - in reply to #391961)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible


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Location: Lordstown, Ohio
Windsor59 - 2013-08-18 8:04 AM

Wow you found a conv projektcar, great find
Have you this "belt" moulding (3 parts) to the car?

And I say like christine-lover "I would choose restore to original, and if you want to change colors, engine to what was offered, do it."
or sell it.


Yep got all that. One of the many reasons I bought this car ALL conv parts are present
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Windsor59
Posted 2013-08-18 8:23 AM (#391964 - in reply to #391963)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible



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Location: Upplands Väsby, Sweden
w.weiland - 2013-08-18 8:17 AM

Windsor59 - 2013-08-18 8:04 AM

Wow you found a conv projektcar, great find
Have you this "belt" moulding (3 parts) to the car?

And I say like christine-lover "I would choose restore to original, and if you want to change colors, engine to what was offered, do it."
or sell it.


Yep got all that. One of the many reasons I bought this car ALL conv parts are present


Perfect-
I have only see two complete sett at Ebay at 13 years.
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christine-lover
Posted 2013-08-18 9:45 AM (#391968 - in reply to #391964)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible



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Location: Sept. 1958
I believe 59 Firesweeps would have had a 361 as standard engine. Senior Desotos got 383. Trans would be the same.

Not a stupid buy at all! Many 57-59 Conv projects today look this bad, I have 2! When you buy a solid never wrecked 2 door donor with good chrome, you will be so far ahead.

I picked up those 2 larger Conv belt line moldings in a yard back in 2008, but put them back when I realized they had different button holes. Stupid move!

Wayne, did you also buy a 59 Firedome Conv recently?
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1961plymouthfury
Posted 2013-08-18 10:42 AM (#391973 - in reply to #391892)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible


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Location: Minor Hill, TN
Good luck with the restoration . I would like to see photos during the restoration and when it gets done.
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ronbo97
Posted 2013-08-18 10:56 AM (#391974 - in reply to #391960)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible


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Location: Connecticut

w.weiland - 2013-08-18 7:54 AM  Still need a answer if a 59 Dodge 361 engine and trans is the same

Yes, they are. Think of the the 59 Firesweep as being a 59 Dodge Royal. Same drivetrain.

Ron

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FIN ME
Posted 2013-08-18 11:22 AM (#391980 - in reply to #391892)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible



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Location: USA - KY

Rare, cool car, w. weiland!

Another vote for bringing the car back to its original glory.

Sending you a PM.
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chuckie
Posted 2013-08-18 11:44 AM (#391988 - in reply to #391892)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible


Member

Posts: 18

I would go the restomod route - you will get a much more drivable, enjoyable and safer car, and more money when selling.
Find a wrecked late model charger / 300 / ram truck with the 5.7 hemi ( better yet find an SRT car) and transplant the whole
drivetrain. If you follow auctions like Mecum / Barrett-Jackson etc. you will see this trend. This weekend I have seen 1957 -1962
corvette restomods going for way over $100K - no way a perfect original restoration brings that money. Even saw 69 camaros
going for $80K and these were not even SS or Z/28 models just cool restomod.
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59 explorer
Posted 2013-08-18 12:39 PM (#391994 - in reply to #391892)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible


Extreme Veteran

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Location: Hershey PA
Wayne: As a purist, restore the car to it's original beauty

Please copy the data plate and let us have some fun translating it

Advise the VIN M412 1xxxxx
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Doctor DeSoto
Posted 2013-08-18 1:05 PM (#392011 - in reply to #391994)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible



5000500050005000200050025
Location: Parts Unknown
Build a 57-58.
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big m
Posted 2013-08-18 1:56 PM (#392019 - in reply to #391892)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible



Expert 5K+

Posts: 7805
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Location: Williams California
Nice find!!

My next project will be a '59 'Sweep I will restore for M'lisa.

---John
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henricthornsund
Posted 2013-08-18 5:06 PM (#392061 - in reply to #391892)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible



50010025
Location: Sweden
Nice car Wayne! Here is some inspiration for you: http://hasselsvensson.se/Desoto%20bilar/59/de59_11.htm
Best of wishes for you to fall in love with the car or finding 57-58. IMO, As for FL Desotos the 59 is the best looking
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d500neil
Posted 2013-08-18 7:34 PM (#392076 - in reply to #392061)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible



Exner Expert 19,174 posts. Neil passed away 18 Sep 2015. You will be missed, Neil!

Posts: 19146
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Location: bishop, ca
Now, how do you expect Wayne to Restomod that car, after seeing THOSE photos?????


Chubbie owners will not approve of that!



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Mike McCandless
Posted 2013-08-18 7:47 PM (#392081 - in reply to #391892)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible


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Posts: 1886
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It's your car, do what makes you happy. No matter what you do, people will be mad. No matter what direction you go it's a massive project, good luck with it!
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d500neil
Posted 2013-08-18 7:59 PM (#392086 - in reply to #392081)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible



Exner Expert 19,174 posts. Neil passed away 18 Sep 2015. You will be missed, Neil!

Posts: 19146
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Location: bishop, ca
...says the Restomodder.

Do it the EASY way, Wayne.

The Chubsters will love you for it.

Do they still sell metal-flake seat covers?




Edited by d500neil 2013-08-18 8:01 PM
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Mike McCandless
Posted 2013-08-18 11:19 PM (#392135 - in reply to #391892)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible


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Posts: 1886
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Yes, the restomodder who sold a 60 imperial convertible because I felt it needed to go back original vs being modded. That imperial was in better condition than this car. Given this cars condition, I see no reason why he can't restomod it if that's what makes him happy. His money, his car. I listen to a bunch of trailer hauling car owners bash my dads car all the time. The 300G with a 5.7 in it. Most of the people bashing it have cars that never get seen by people other than those already interested in them (i.e. mopar shows). Many on this board complain about cars that never get driven, yet those same people want these cars done 100% original. Which puts them in a value range that keeps people from driving them, irony. At least some restomods get driven, allowing all types of people to see the cars.

I will never apologize for modifying a car, especially a car I have ZERO intention of selling. I enjoyed getting 27mpg, running 89 octane, with the AC on, in a triple black car on the way to carlise. It was nice having my cruise set and ipod playing the whole way. There are positives and negatives to both sides.
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DIF-RNT
Posted 2013-08-18 11:34 PM (#392140 - in reply to #391892)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible



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Location: NE Ohio
Nice car Wayne...do as you wish as I am sure it will be a winner

Edited by DIF-RNT 2013-08-18 11:35 PM
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Finsinthemirror
Posted 2013-08-19 3:13 AM (#392163 - in reply to #391892)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible



Elite Veteran

Posts: 1115
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While you may not be in love with the '59 it's undeniable that the '59s seem to be VERY popular overseas. Doing a resto-mod/alteration would be a gigantic mistake.
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Chrys 68
Posted 2013-08-19 7:15 AM (#392170 - in reply to #391892)
Subject: RE: 59 Desoto convertible



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Posts: 673
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Location: Malung, SWEDEN
Nice project! Please send a pm if you decide to sell.
I know things are different in U.S. but I can tell interest would be zero
for this ride over here if it was "restomodded". Please restore this to its
former glory and do the modifications on some less unusual car instead.
Just my thoughts
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w.weiland
Posted 2013-08-22 7:18 AM (#392823 - in reply to #391893)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible


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Location: Lordstown, Ohio
christine-lover - 2013-08-17 7:16 PM

Congrats, that's a very rare car. I would choose restore to original, and if you want to change colors, engine to what was offered, do it.

Or offer to trade for a 57 or 58 convertible in similar condition.


that would be nice
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Doctor DeSoto
Posted 2013-08-22 12:25 PM (#392854 - in reply to #392823)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible



5000500050005000200050025
Location: Parts Unknown
I am most curious to see if you can pull off a swap. You have the internet today. Something that
I did not have for searching and exposure. But I found people all talk a big game about selling and
trading (as if it involves some common, late model car), but when you're sitting in the driver's seat
and you very specifically want a 57 or 58 DeSoto convertible, ... no 59, no Firesweep, but a REAL
1957 or 1958 DESOTO RAGTOP, you suddenly find yourself being the only one in the universe !

Finding ANY Forward Look convertible is pulling off a major accomplishment, even if it's a rustbucket
and the WRONG car (for what you want).

I see two options:

1. Sell it as a heap of parts (because that is all anyone will really pay you for it in anything but restored
condition (been there and done that too many times), OR

2. Keep it yourself as a heap of parts to build the car you want. At least in this case, you have the tangible
unobtainium in hand, whereas once sold, all you have is a small wad of cash and the unobtainium is gone.

3. A third option *might* be to just sit on it in the mad hope that a miracle guy WILL produce the trade
you want AS you go on searching for that 57-58 yourself. That involves more years spent without the
car you want and for those of us that know that frustration, it isn't an attractive option.

Restoring this one will cost you upwards of $60K, more if you have it professionally done. And in the end
you're stuck with an "almost" car that only reminds you how you sold out on your dream every time you look
at it, ... and at a cost in dollars and years of what ? Personally, if I were looking at committing cubic dollars
and years to a project, it would be for WHAT I WANT, not something ALMOST like what I want. But that's
just me.

To build a big body 57-58, you are going to need a 57 or 58 frame (not the same) and a big body X-member
to get started. In other words, you will need a decent donor coupe for the frame and body. Once you have
rolling chassis, the rear quarters and box rail need to be swapped. Something that this rusty car will need
to have done anyway, and then, with rust repair and fin swaps done, set it on the chassis and install a 57-58
nose and interior and drivetrain and you're off to the rodeo. Hopefully, somewhere along the line you can find
a donor set of convertible body tags to make it all "correct".

=====================================================================

This argument takes a whole different spin if a 59 or a Firesweep is "as good" to a person as a big body 57 or
58. To me, that's like wanting a Cadillac and settling for a Corvair. But to some, one is as good as the other.
They're emphasis is more on OLD and "cool" than it is on a specific car and model.

Good luck. I feel your pain.
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Lancer Mike
Posted 2013-08-22 4:10 PM (#392880 - in reply to #392854)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible



5000200020005001002525
Location: The Mile High City
did 1959 De Sotos still have the 122" and 126" frames?

how do you tell the difference on these?
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d500neil
Posted 2013-08-22 4:29 PM (#392884 - in reply to #392880)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible



Exner Expert 19,174 posts. Neil passed away 18 Sep 2015. You will be missed, Neil!

Posts: 19146
5000500050002000200010025
Location: bishop, ca
BOY; this car did not lead a pampered life!

All the pics, above, were not initially posted.

This car is a perfect (sad to say) candidate for a proper-European-quality restoration.

Most Gringos would lose money and/or interest in seeing this project through to its ultimate OEM completion (hence:
"Restomodification").

The manual brake pedal is wiped-clean of its raised-contacts (and then the pad got partially torn off from the pedal)
and the accelerator pedal is badly worn, too, and probably not from contact with a high-heeled shoe.

WAITAMINUTE....just went back and looked, and the photos show a power brake system installed, but, the 'manual'
brake-pedal is absolutely hammered (as is the similarly worn out accelerator pedal).

Something is not 'right' with the manual-brake pedal's damage, in regards to a power-brake system being installed.

The rear end collision apparently took out the deck lid, as it has been replaced, but the owner didn't/couldn't find a decent
quarter 'patch' panel to install, so, he got out his BFH and went to 'work' on it.

The two rear frame 'horns' are also probably (still) bent, but they can be (further) repaired and aligned.

Somebody 'liked' its radio, but not its relatively rare antenna.

Unless someone like Big M can come to the rescue, finding good side spear trim might be the hardest repair
part(s) to find.







Edited by d500neil 2013-08-22 4:40 PM
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d500neil
Posted 2013-08-22 4:42 PM (#392887 - in reply to #391892)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible



Exner Expert 19,174 posts. Neil passed away 18 Sep 2015. You will be missed, Neil!

Posts: 19146
5000500050002000200010025
Location: bishop, ca
The amount, and the frequency of the force, that would be needed to be applied to a power brake pedal, in order to wear
it out as badly as this car's brake pedal is worn....is scary to think about.






Edited by d500neil 2013-08-22 4:46 PM
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Doctor DeSoto
Posted 2013-08-22 6:21 PM (#392919 - in reply to #392880)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible



5000500050005000200050025
Location: Parts Unknown
Sweeps retained the Dodge "underskin" components to the end. This is why I refer to
Firesweeps as "Firesweeps" and NOT "DeSotos" ... they might LOOK similar, but they are
a different car for most intents and purposes.

So, this is a DODGE 122" WB frame with a small (Plymouth-Dodge) X-member (not the
same as a 126" WB car) in it.

Let's just say we were at "the factory" and the build sheet came down the line to assemble
a 1958 Fireflite convertible. First thing we'd do is grab up a coupe frame (also fits 126" Chryslers)
and grab a 126" WB X-member and weld it into place. These are easily located by pin holes
in the frame. Now we have proper 58 convertible frame.

Add in appropriate chassis gear and drive train, and now we move on to the body. The cross-
engineering of the bodies allowed inter-swapping of parts to create different cars. In this case,
a convertible body is the same for both 122" and 126" WB cars. The difference between THIS
car (59 Firesweep) and a 58 Fireflite is the rear quarter skins and the box rail framing at the
rear (where the trunk latch mounts to.

This changed for 59 to fit that dumpy new rear bumper, so it is a little more structural than
just outer body skins. But that's OK, because I am betting dollars to donuts this car's box rail
is shot from rust like most are. So, that has to be built back using the 57-58 box rail frame
and outer quarter skins ... something this car requires, no matter what it is built back as.

So, we locate the proper body and drop it on the previously finished chassis, and bring in a
58 Fireflite nose clip and sink a proper 58 Fireflite dash and interior into it, and VOILA ! We
have an "as factory built" 1958 Fireflite convertible as they really did build them there on
Wyoming Avenue.

Easy as pie. Just add cubic dollars !

And Mikey ... the difference is easily spotted in the short spread of sheetmetal in the fender
between the front wheel opening and the front of the door. It is a full 4" shorter !
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Doctor DeSoto
Posted 2013-08-22 6:23 PM (#392920 - in reply to #391892)
Subject: RE: 59 Desoto convertible



5000500050005000200050025
Location: Parts Unknown
Wayne,

Haul this tub to Spokane and go fetch the parts I'll ask for, and I'll hand you back a proper
57 or 58 (your choice). Oh yeah, and add cubic dollars.

Don't be afraid to charge that hill.
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d500neil
Posted 2013-08-22 7:01 PM (#392930 - in reply to #392920)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible



Exner Expert 19,174 posts. Neil passed away 18 Sep 2015. You will be missed, Neil!

Posts: 19146
5000500050002000200010025
Location: bishop, ca
So, the 59 Firesweep will be a good handling car, on its 122" wheelbase.

Kool!

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w.weiland
Posted 2013-08-22 7:59 PM (#392940 - in reply to #391892)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible


Expert

Posts: 1482
1000100100100100252525
Location: Lordstown, Ohio
BOY I didn't think all this would transpire. By the way, I did find a 59 Fireflite 2 door hardtop thats in real decent shape to use as a patch panel for this car. I already considered prior to it being brought up about doing that. The way I see it, if its made out of wood, metal or plastic you can do anything in the world to it. Its a mind set. After 25+ years of heavy line collison repair this car is nothing to do.
Thats why I threw those options out. Restoring it would be really nice. The car does look a whole lot better with the top down. I think its growing on me. You don't see them. Very few were made, so how many survied????
THEN that resto md thought keeps popping up HMMMMMMM

OK Doc Im loading up tonight for the swap for the 57-8 you got

Edited by w.weiland 2013-08-22 8:00 PM
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Finsinthemirror
Posted 2013-08-22 10:02 PM (#392963 - in reply to #391892)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible



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Nobody could answer the survival rate of this car, it's VERY low I'm sure. Unless it's a 300 or one of the more expensive (special from day one "prestige" cars) it would be very difficult to gauge.
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Adventurer 60
Posted 2013-08-23 3:36 AM (#392993 - in reply to #391892)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible



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It so easy to say "restore it to original glory" Amateur restoration for this kind of rustbucket could take 5 to 15 years or 200.000 dolars to make it professionally. While that you might end up to divorce, unemployed, sick.. what ever.
Sorry, there is no sense to restore this car, not even make it a rat rod.
Only valuable thing in this Soto is convertible parts! rest are less or more crap, unfortunately.
What I would do is to sell this car (or its conv parts) to Scandinavia
Seriously, sell it for convertible converison. Or if you are handyman, buy a 57-58 2 door hardtop (what you like) with less rot and rust and do it yourself.

Or buy a good 59 2 d hardtop Desoto. You can use the frame from original car, perhaps drivetrain etc. So you still have same identity for the car and you can say it is restored.
Converison is relatively easy - lot easier then change that body to its original glory.

i
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firedome
Posted 2013-08-23 12:31 PM (#393048 - in reply to #391892)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible



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By that logic, if a 122" Firesweep is a Dodge, then a 126" DeS is a Chrysler, Mopar didn't build a separate chassis or body strictly for DeSoto, there was no "true" DeSoto... 126" models were strictly downscaled Chryslers, as DeSoto always played 2nd fiddle to the company's namesake make. In fact the actual basic body shell (not the exterior sheet metal) and floor pan is the same on all of them. There's no more interior room in a NYer than in a Firesweep iirc. Companies did this kind body/frame sharing all the time, they all did it: there were big and small Mercurys, big and small Buicks, Olds etc. In reality the cars were what the companies said they were, there were no "pure" DeSotos, "pure" Buicks, Mercurys, ad nauseum. Perhaps the more status conscious owners of more "upscale" models liked to disassociate themselves from the "humble" origins of lower models within a given make, but the marketers knew full well that the name mattered, and they took full advantage of that. Given that there's no more interior space, the superior handling may have been more important to those for whom actual driving qualities mattered over having non-functional front end overhang strictly for appearance, being that the length difference was totally in the frame and fenders in front of the cowl, obstensively to lend added "prestige".

On topic, I love this '59, just imagine how magnificent this car will be when put back to her former glory. All FLs are unique and great in different ways , and there is no need to denigrate any particular FL year or model; personal preferences need no validation, and repetitious expression of it over and over becomes rather tiresome.

Edited by firedome 2013-08-23 12:36 PM
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d500neil
Posted 2013-08-23 6:02 PM (#393100 - in reply to #393048)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible



Exner Expert 19,174 posts. Neil passed away 18 Sep 2015. You will be missed, Neil!

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It's more than just the car's wheelbase, it's its running gear, which is shared by Dodge, as the car was built on the Dodge
assembly lines.

So, it's got the 'heart' of the Dodge, not the 'soul' of the Chrysler.

And, its 122" wheelbase will translate to a very responsive handling car.

The 57+ Fury has a 118" W.B., and it handles better than the Dodge.



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d500neil
Posted 2013-08-23 6:07 PM (#393101 - in reply to #391892)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible



Exner Expert 19,174 posts. Neil passed away 18 Sep 2015. You will be missed, Neil!

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Hate, again, to say this; but very few Gringos, today, have the time/MONEY/interest/ability/facilities to restore a basket
case car.

This car should be restored, not resto-modified.

If I were Wayne, I'd sell it for $10,000.00, and sleep well at night, knowing that some Northern (or
SOUTHERN; hallo, Max; ciao, Raffa & Antonello!) European-Type is properly and lovingly restoring the car.

(throw-in your newly-found parts car for additional dinero, as part of this deal, too).









Edited by d500neil 2013-08-23 6:19 PM
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w.weiland
Posted 2013-08-23 10:50 PM (#393131 - in reply to #391892)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible


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I'm getting the impression a lot of people would be afraid to take this. Car on you know when I look at this car I don't see a rust bucket or a parts pile . I see what it can a d will be . Unlike a vast majority of you my experience would NOT cause me to run from it . Like Doc said the fact of finding one in ANY shape is a feat. So when this came up I jumped. Yes it's not my first choice, but it's a very good second place. Would I trade it? I sure would if a 57-58 came along I would, maybe even a Dodge
You know this may ruffle a feather or two but tuff beans , you people wonder why ALL the combs went over seas,it's because some people in this country are lazy and afraid of a little sweat,busted knuckle or rust in the eye. Well I'm not
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d500neil
Posted 2013-08-23 11:36 PM (#393134 - in reply to #393131)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible



Exner Expert 19,174 posts. Neil passed away 18 Sep 2015. You will be missed, Neil!

Posts: 19146
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I dunno what this car's fate may be, but I can visualize it cruising down one of the Rivieras, at night, causing a
sensation.

Big nasty redhead at my side.....we were born to ride.

You can have your modern $buxomobiles; this ride would make a STATEMENT upon its arrival at a venue.

And, it AIN'T red.







Edited by d500neil 2013-08-23 11:38 PM
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big m
Posted 2013-08-24 11:27 AM (#393171 - in reply to #393131)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible



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w.weiland - 2013-08-23 7:50 PM

I'm getting the impression a lot of people would be afraid to take this. Car on you know when I look at this car I don't see a rust bucket or a parts pile . I see what it can a d will be . Unlike a vast majority of you my experience would NOT cause me to run from it . Like Doc said the fact of finding one in ANY shape is a feat. So when this came up I jumped. Yes it's not my first choice, but it's a very good second place. Would I trade it? I sure would if a 57-58 came along I would, maybe even a Dodge
You know this may ruffle a feather or two but tuff beans , you people wonder why ALL the combs went over seas,it's because some people in this country are lazy and afraid of a little sweat,busted knuckle or rust in the eye. Well I'm not


Wayne-
That is definitely a do-able car. A decent parts car is really all you need, as well as time to do it. That car is ten times better than the Plymouth was that I am currently working on,
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christine-lover
Posted 2013-08-24 12:09 PM (#393174 - in reply to #393171)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible



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Yes. You basically use most sheet metal from the parts car hardtop to restore body shell. Convertible rockers are reproduced in Sweden. Wayne is a body man so he can do it. This car is about what my Plymouth is like. Very difficult work, but you just don't give up. What if America gave up after the first few knockouts from Japan in 1942.
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christine-lover
Posted 2013-08-24 12:30 PM (#393176 - in reply to #393174)
Subject: Re: 59 Desoto convertible



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Btw, there were 596 of these built.
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