51' crestliner
This 51′ Crestliner entered the shop as a impressive all original ford, right down to the plastic covered seats.
Original 51' seats still cevered in plastic
For this build the onwers the car wanted to retain all of its original looks but also for it to have modern creature comforts and reliability. This meant A/C and heat, AM/FM radio with ipod hook-up, a modern powertrain, and the suspension to handle it all safely.
The original flathead and transmission were removed. The front half of the frame along with the front suspension were then torn down. In their place went a “Heidts” front suspension and cross member.
orginal flathead being removed
51' crestliner front suspension before
Modified front suspension, frame, and steering
The next phase of the project was to choose a powertrain. To keep with the Ford brand the Ford 4.6l was chosen. For the transmission we went with a 4R70W automatic.
51' crestliner with a 4.6l installed
The 51′ crestliner also received a new wiring harness, air conditioning, and upgraded brakes to complete the transformation.
51' crestliner wiring
51' crestliner dash with A/C and modified original radio
Along with the upgraded brake master cylinder the Crestliner also received 4-wheel disk brakes.
51' crestliner brake system upgrade
The Crestliner was finished with a beautiful steering wheel that was offered as a dealer option in 1951.
Dealer option sttering wheel for 1951
Below are a few more pictures of the finished product.
For more build photos follow the link below:
