by Mike » 2015 Apr 07 Tue 5:45 am
Cool...
Welcome.
Yes, it's a 55 alright. Obviously in need of a windshield. While not cheap, check both e-bay and Studebaker International, see what they turn up. I've seen verious windshields for Studes on E-bay. Someone's remaking them.
As for the hood being "stuck", maybe not. Clean out some of the "stuff" from under the front-center of the hood. There should be a safety catch you need to...hmmm...pull or push, I don't recall. I'll check mine when I get home tonight.
Overall, the body doesn't seem to be too bad, probably look MUCH better after a good bath..!
The engine could be either a 232 or a 259, two or four barrel carburetor. You'll have to check the numbers, right next to the oil filler tube, front top, just to the left of center of the block to see what the engine is.
All of the front end appears to be in decient shape. Some of "that" stuff can be hard/expensive to find. That stainless steel sun shield is worth it's weight in gold to many.
There's more parts available than you might think for these cars, body, suspension, and mechanical. I have a new (reproduction) complete 12 volt wire harness if you are interested, when you get to that point. I went to an aftermarket wiring system. For the front fenders (other areas), patch panels are available for many of the normal rust areas, complete floors included.
What's your current plan, keep and build or sell ?
Mike