Charles DeLacy's 1951 Studebaker
1951 Studebaker Starlight Coupe restyled by Charles DeLacy of Los Angeles, California. Charles customized his Studebaker in his spare time, working by night at an aircraft plant, going to college by day, and working at an body shop during his "idle" hours. The build took 15 months to complete.[1]
Up front Charles created a new grille made from a 1947 Oldsmobile top bar, and a 1949 Mercury grille.[2] The headlights were replaced by a pair of 1952 Ford lights.[2] In the rear Charles replaced the stock deck lid with one from a 1952 Nash. A forward panel was made from a 1934 Ford hood. He also restyled his Studebaker using 1950 Oldsmobile rear fenders with 1952 Ford scoops, and 1952 Lincoln taillights.[2] The exhaust tips were inset under the bumper.[1]
Charles lowered the car by installing lowering blocks front and rear and sectioning the body 3 inches.[2] The Stude retained its flathead six engine but it was equipped with a 3/4 race cam, oversize valves, dual carbs, headers and re-shaped combustion chambers which brought the compression ratio to 9:1.[1]
The car's interior featured custom button-tufted upholstery.[1]
October 26 to November 1, 1953 Charles' Studebaker was shown at the 4th annual Motorama in Los Angeles, California.[3]
Magazine Features
Motor Trend November 1953
Trend Book 116 Custom Cars 1955 Annual
References
Did you enjoy this article?
Kustomrama is an encyclopedia dedicated to preserve, share and protect traditional hot rod and custom car history from all over the world.
- Help us keep history alive. For as little as 2.99 USD a month you can become a monthly supporter. Click here to learn more.
- Subscribe to our free newsletter and receive regular updates and stories from Kustomrama.
- Do you know someone who would enjoy this article? Click here to forward it.
Can you help us make this article better?
Please get in touch with us at mail@kustomrama.com if you have additional information or photos to share about Charles DeLacy's 1951 Studebaker.
This article was made possible by:
SunTec Auto Glass - Auto Glass Services on Vintage and Classic Cars
Finding a replacement windshield, back or side glass can be a difficult task when restoring your vintage or custom classic car. It doesn't have to be though now with auto glass specialist companies like www.suntecautoglass.com. They can source OEM or OEM-equivalent glass for older makes/models; which will ensure a proper fit every time. Check them out for more details!
Do you want to see your company here? Click here for more info about how you can advertise your business on Kustomrama.
