1955 DeSoto Desoto

Firedome Other

8 - Cyl.

Automatic

55229914

Gasoline

Up for your consideration is a 1955 Desoto, Firedome, 2 door hardtop. I'm listing this car for my Dad who lovingly restored it in the early 70's. Restoration included body work, paint, seat covering, carpet, light mechanicals, and tires. It has always been garage kept since the restoration and was never driven in rain or snow during his ownership. Overall the car is 90% original. The exterior red color, seat fabric, power brake booster, and radiator core are the only known changes from original equipment. The 292 cubic inch, Hemi V-8, starts and runs well and has a fresh NOS carburator. There are no abnormal engine noises or smoke. A new battery was installed in November of 2010. The two speed automatic transmission was rebuilt within the last 4 years and shifts and performs fine. Rear brakes were rebuilt at the same time as transmission rebuild. Car is equiped with power steering and brakes. All lights and guages function including the radio and clock. Three of the wide white tires are near new with 85% tread, and one is brand new. Seats have been re-upholstered with correct color fabric and are in flawless condition. The original headliner is intact with no cuts or tears but is showing its age with stains. Dash and guages are in very good condition. Carpet is in near new condition. Floors and trunk are solid with no rust holes or repair. Exterior stainless steel trim is all in good condition. Red exterior paint, although showing its age in a few places, is in good condition and shows well when clean. White exterior paint is in good condition with the exception of the lower rear quarter panels. Some of the chrome trim is pitted with age and exposure but its all there and intact. There is an original shop manual, new NOS fuel pump (not installed), and few misc. spare parts. Car does have the original jack and a spare tire. The car has been sitting for approximately 3 years and has developed a few issues that can be easily fixed. Brake master cylinder has failed and will most likely need replaced. Front brake shoes and cylinders need attention. With the brake master cylinder and front brake issues the car is not drivable but can be moved under its own power and stopped with the parking brake. There is an exhaust leak, most likely in the cross over pipe. Lower rear quarter panels have rust repair that is now showing its age and starting to bubble and seperate. Rear bumper is dented. To sum things up, myself, 3 brothers, and one brother in-law, all helped my dad during the restore and we hate to see it go. My dad is at the age where its time to pass this piece of history on. I've been with on several trips to car shows and it never failed to draw attention and admoration. It did win an award in 1994 at a local Walter P. Chrysler Club meet for "Best of Show" Desoto. Although its nothing like our modern cars, for its age and design, it is a pleasure to drive. For those of us who remember what a true "hard top" body style is, this is one of them and a "all windows down" cruise brings back fond memories. With some light TLC, and minor body/paint work, this car will again be a good show car. I've attempted to provide as much detail as possible but please e-mail any further questions. Car is for sale in "as-is" condition. There are no warranties expressed or implied. A $1,000 downpayment is due within 72 hours of auction close. Full payment is expected within 7 days of auction close or at pickup, which ever occurs first. Personal checks will not be accepted. Please take the bidding process seriously. Don't waste our time by bidding on something your not prepared to, or capable of, paying for. Thank you.