About

Just as I was completing my 1st restoration (my 42 Dodge 4 door), when I said to my wife, "if I ever do this again, I'ld like to do a convertible". I went downstairs to my computer to search for 42 Dodge spare parts. The first thing that popped up on the screen was a 1942 Dodge Convertible. It was an omen.

I never really thought I would find one, let alone in such remarkable condition.

Last driven in 1954 it originally belonged to a saleman. It broke down in rural Pennsylvania where it was purchased by one of the locals. He had planned to fix it up.

A few years it was sold and put in a barn as a future project. It was amazing how many projects that barn held. Unfortunately most never completed, however they were well protected.

After many emails and conversations, on April 1st of 2001, I was told it was mine. I just wasn't sure if they were kidding.

A few weeks later we had it home.

I'm still amazed at the wonderful condition of the car for its' age. We tinkered with it and got it running but I decided to just start disassembling it for restoration instead of messing around.

It is a work in progress. It will be a dream come true when it is complete.

Only 1185 Dodge rag tops were made for 1942. I know of 5 and possibly a 6th.

It will be a real Doll when it's done. A real Rag Doll.

Specs

230 CU. IN L-Head 6 Cylinder
Single Barrel Down-Draft Carburetor
105 HP
Automatic-Electric Choke
3 Speed Fluid Drive Transmission
Hydraulic Brakes
Independent Front Suspension
Leaf Spring Rear Suspension
Hydraulic, Telescopic Double Action Shocks
Electric Windshield Wipers
Color: Black with Tan top
Interior: Red Leather
Vehicle Weight: 3,476lbs.
Production: 1,185 (Custom Convertible)
Model Number: D-22
0-60: Possible

Factory Options

8 Tube Radio
Electric Clock
Directional Signals
Heater
Front Bumper & Guards
Wheel Discs
Rear Bumper & Guards
Oil Filter
Fluid Drive
Cigar Lighter
Fender Skirts

Mods

I plan to drive this and show it when I'm done so I will likely put an overdrive in this to reduce wear and tear on the engine at highway speeds.

White walls will be a must even though they were not available during the war.

I'll be using an original factory color but I have not decided if I will go back to black. The dash on the convertibles gets painted to match the exterior. The gauges are gold in color with chrome trim. I will post a color chart in the album. Suggestions and comments are welcome.

Of the 5 other convertibles that I have seen pictures of, 3 are Panama Sand (one with a factory blue accent), one is Squad Red and the last one I believe will also be Squad Red.

Browse Related Cars: 1942, dodge, convertible

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