For
1955 Ford Thunderbird (40A R
XB 24C143)
292 CU V8 190 HP 8.1:1 compression Ratio
Three speed manual transmission
Body Code 40A “Thunderbird”
Paint code R “Torch Red”
Trim code XB “Red/White”
Production code 24C “Built March 24,
1955”
Plant F “
Factory options: Power brakes, Power Seat, Radio, Heater, White side walls, Soft top, Full Wheel Covers, Windshield washer
Dealers installed options: Tonneau Cover,
Floor Mats
The T-bird is street driven. (Never
been on a trailer since I have owned it) I drove it about 3000 miles a few
years ago year.
I have entered it in 3 AACA national shows Metropolis IL, Dublin OH,
Jeffersonville, IN and it finished second in all, it has gotten a trophy at
every show it has been in and it was driven to every show.
The car has never been totally restored, it was freshened up and painted the original color about 20 years ago. (From what I was told)
Engine was overhauled and repainted at that time
Interior is original except the red vinyl has been replaced at time of painting.
The white vinyl (except kick panels) is original.
I was told Cloth top is original. (But I question this because the top is white) ( I read all 55 came with black tops)
Tonneau cover has been replaced.
It has Stainless Steel exhaust (all replaced)
New 4 core high efficiently radiator (best made) new heater core, hoses, belts, clamps
I also installed a custom overdrive water pump pulley (I have stock) so over heating is not an issue
Seat belts of correct style (1956) were added for safety 3 sets, quickly removable clips
I replaced the fuel gauge and sending unit
I redid the front end, ball joints, control arm bushings, tie rod ends, sway bar bushings, bolts, washers etc.
Replace shocks and u-joints with correct parts
New floor mats never used and older ones in car.
I found and installed the correct oil filter. I have the adapter to use a spin on.
I replaced the cheap reproduction air cleaner with an original (over $300)
Now has Correct a hard to find 3 blade chrome fan with correct “Ford Recall” strengthening plate to correct cracking problem.
I have replaced about $1000 worth of little T-bird Items (trim weather seals).
I fixed to power seat and made to go back farther than stock.
I replaced the tail light lenses.
It has trailer hitch that can be removed without and damage. I pull a small motorcycle trailer, with a show bike and modified to haul the hard top.
(5) New reproduction Firestone tires.
All new tubes and vibrator in Radio.
I have some spare parts including 2 extra teapot carbs, original radiator, heater core, hubcaps, paper element air cleaner, spin on oil filter kit.
Know problems:
Horn ring broken,
Paint 20 years old
All information is to the best of my knowledge and what I was told before I purchased the car.
Current mileage as of March 2005 (76,680) As of June 2007 (77438), I believe it is original and have found no reason to doubt it.
Car is driven so it will have more when delivered.
$45,000 obo will trade for something interesting.
The Krause Old Cars Price
Guide 2008 Collector Car Price guide shows:
1955 Ford Thunderbird
#6 $2,640
#5 $7,920 #4 $13,200 #3 $29,700
#2 $46,200 #1 $ 66,000
Add $1800 for Hardtop (I
have hardtop) so
#6 $4,440
#5 $9,720 #4 $15,000 #3 $31,500
#2 $48,000 #1 $ 67,800
I
will trade for something that strikes my fancy that I haven't already had.
Only car I have had that I want again if an 810-812 Cord sedan.
Things I would consider are Pre-war Packards, any
Steam, Most Electrics,
32-35 Flathead RSR, some other Classics (with a capital C), maybe Brass.
Fairly open just not interested in much post war unless it's a woody, Hemi or
special interest.
I may be willing to trade for something I don't even know exists.
I will trade CCPG value to CCPG value will take less for a cash buyer.
As I said it doesn't cost anything to ask. Any questions email me:
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