1954 Dodge Coronet Sedan Hemi V8 on 2040-cars

VIN: 34686562 Year: 1954
Number of Cylinders: 8
Make: Dodge
Model: Coronet
Trim: Coronet
Power Options: Power Steering
Drive Type: Automatic
Mileage: 49,993
Sub Model: Sedan
Number of Doors: 4
Exterior Color: Red
Warranty: Vehicle does NOT have an existing warranty
Interior Color: Red

Condition: Used: A vehicle is considered used if it has been registered and issued a title. Used vehicles have had at least one previous owner. The condition of the exterior, interior and engine can vary depending on the vehicle's history. See the seller's listing for full details and description of any imperfections. ... 

This is a 1954 Dodge Coronet sedan with the 241 Hemi V8, Powerflite 2 speed automatic transmission, power steering, deluxe 8 tube radio (works), optional clock (works sometimes), exterior period correct sun-visor (not the Fulton), vent window shades, door handle guards, fender skirts, and true dual exhausts.  We added some chrome accessories from the top-of-the-line Royal series, such as the fender spears and medallions on the c-pillars.  I have the owners manual, shop manual and options brochure from the factory.  Everything on the car is correct for the period, and was available on the Coronet as optional equipment in 1954.  Dad purchased the car about 5 years ago from a private owner in Miami.  I have 2 videos on u tube - search for 1954 Dodge Hemi.  We are a private family, and will describe this car as honestly as possible.  We are not looking to "hurt" anyone, and don't want to get "hurt" either.

This was my dad's car, and his last restoration project.  I inherited it when he passed away March 2012.  The car has been garaged, and very rarely driven.  The tires are Coker wide whites and like new.  The manual brakes work fine, and the power steering is great.  The car has a nice smooth ride - shocks replaced about 2 years ago.  He tried to keep it as original as possible.  It still has the 6 volt positive ground system.  The battery is relatively new and is the largest 6 volt that would fit - I think its 975 amps.  We have won some plaques at local shows.  The car shows very nicely and gets a lot of attention.  It was originally a kind of boring maroon color, but dad had it painted red with a white top (more 50's festive).  The original chrome looks great.

Although the car looks and sounds very nice, it is NOT perfect.  There are some issues that need attention, but I am not familiar with classic car restoration although I helped dad whenever I could.  Below is an honest description.

Engine:  The engine has never been opened up and has less than 50,000 original miles.  Whisper quiet when idling, with no valve knock or noise.  Does not leak or burn any oil, and runs cool. The car had been sitting over a year, and I noticed some hesitation when I drove her last night.  I put fresh gas and I was on the highway at about 55-60 mph and noticed that she hesitates, although maintains speed.  Tune-up maybe?  The car idles fine though, and all gauges work.  The generator was rebuilt and synchronized with the voltage regulator. 

Transmission:  The transmission was rebuilt a couple years ago, and has been driven about 100 miles since.  After driving her 30 miles each way to a show last night (won a plaque), I noticed there is a transmission leak.  While stopped at a light, a little smoke puffed from the passenger side.  When I parked in the garage, I saw transmission fluid dripping from near the filler tube.  It's not coming from the tube though; just in front of it.  The drip looks like it splatters onto the exhaust pipe, causing some smoke.  The transmission pan doesn't leak.  I'm not sure if the transmission was overfilled, but it does leak transmission fluid, especially after driving.  For this reason only, I would NOT recommend driving the car long distances.  I noticed some water stains on the radiator, so the radiator may have a leak.

Steering:  The power steering is effortless and the front end seems tight.  The tires are Coker wide white walls and like new.  The rear passenger tire gets low after sitting a while though.

Interior:  The complete interior was redone, including the headliner, sun visors, door panels and carpet.  The seats have vintage seat covers on them, and they look very nice and period correct.  I saved the 1950s box they were in.  Not sure what's under the covers though.  Extra sound deadening pads and insulation were glued above the headliner, under the carpet, and inside the doors.  The weather strips were replaced around the doors and window channels.  The car does not rattle at all, and actually rides very quietly inside. 

Glass:  All glass is original and clear, except for the front passenger.  The original window was cracked, and when dad tried putting in the replacement, he cracked it too.  So the front passenger side window is cracked.  I think he paid $60 for it, so it's a cheap fix, but I don't know how to do it. 

Paint:  The car shows nicely, but there are some minor paint chips/scratches that could be addressed.  Overall, she looks very presentable.  Enough to win awards.

Feel free to ask questions.  I'm sure these are easy repairs for someone with the knowledge and expertise working on these cars.  Inspections are welcome PRIOR to auction end.  There is a modest reserve on the car, very fair for the condition and rarity of the car.  Shipping is buyer's responsibility, and there is no warranty.  I will assist as much as possible in coordinating shipping.  The car can be driven locally for shipping purposes.  We will accept cash or money order/certified check.  Good luck and happy bidding.