1952 Pontiac Other

6 passenger station wagon

Straight 8

Hydromatic dual range

K8WH6029

Clear

Gasoline

1952 Pontiac Chieftain DeLuxe Woody WagonIn the late 1940's and early 1950's, General Motors manufactured Station Wagon’s based on classic Woodie Wagon design, largely geared toward people that lived near the ocean or wanted to feel like it. The most elaborate model was the Pontiac Tin Woody Wagon, which actually didn't include very much wood in its design. However, the vehicle was popular because of its huge interior, providing an open-air feel with the large amount of glass that was used. After World War II, Pontiac had been looking for a new model series to increase annual sales and offered the Chieftain in 4 body designs. By 1952, a total of 6 body designs were available, including a newly introduced Chieftain Station Wagon. These first generation Chieftains were produced through 1954. The Straight Eight Pontiac’s were certifiably some of the most reliable cars on the road at their time. Today these automobiles are a favorite among station wagon collectors because of its classic design and relatively low production numbers. There are no exact numbers available about this classic Chieftain Surf-wagon, but according to some sources, less than a 1000 were produced in 1952. Tin Woodies might not have the style or appeal of a true woody wagon, but repairing sheet metal is much easier than replacing hand fit wood body panels. Crafting a real wood and metal body is an expensive and labor intensive process, so Pontiac decided that rather than build a genuine woodie, they would build an all steel car and paint wood panels onto the body. It saved vast amounts of money during production and also means that these cars are easier and cheaper to restore and to maintain today. Rather than needing a wood worker to carefully craft and install new panels, all you need is a painter or vinyl wrap printer, skilled in replicating the look of wood. This Cherokee-Red 1952 Pontiac Chieftain DeLuxe Tin Woody Wagon spent the last 30 years or more in the desert between Yuma and Gila Bend AZ, in an impound lot along Highway 8. The business amassed a number of vintage vehicles over the years, not letting go of any collectibles they acquired, possibly through non-payment for services or just by towing them off the highway for minor breakdowns. After the business owner passed, the whole collection was purchased as a lot. Although the majority of the inventory was of common example, this wagon stood out as one of the unique picks in the group. Far from being a pristine example, it is for the most part, an unmolested original that has been weathered over years in the elements and will need a full reconditioning to achieve original appearance or serious elbow grease for a great patina driver. Rust issues are present, but not overwhelming. The driver’s door has rusted through at the bottom and by the lower hinge, as has the entire bottom of the lower tailgate. Both repairs would best be addressed by replacement, although the tailgate may be salvageable by metal work. Parts are common with Chevrolet and Oldsmobile cars of the era, therefore availability is spread over the makes. Otherwise, notable rust is present in the areas of the rear wheel housings, where they meet the rear cargo floor behind the rear wheels and a few holes in the leading area of the spare tire well. Floors, rockers, frame and body seem solid. The interior real wood for the most part appear in fair condition. This is not a complete “rust bucket” and appears worthy of rehabilitation by someone that appreciates the rarity and unique-ness of a very special Pontiac. This 1952 Chieftain DeLuxe came equipped with the large 268.4 cubic inch straight eight with high compression head and Dual Range Hydromatic 4 speed automatic transmission. Options included the seven-tube Chieftain radio, Venti-Seat underseat heater and electric clock. The car is not in running condition at this time, but has clean oil and turned freely when voltage was applied to the starter. I would not be surprised if this car would fire up after an afternoon of attention, but - no warranty expressed or implied. The radiator was removed over the years and is not present, otherwise it seems mechanically complete. The wagon appears to have been used for some target practice during it’s life out in the field (see pics), but in my opinion the bullet holes could add character for a rat rod. Some of them can be easily addressed in restoration with readily available replacement pieces - most trim is shared with the more common Chieftain sedans and all the glass is available online. It has a new reproduction translucent Indian Head hood ornament and a fresh set of tires. Please look over the pictures and if you have any questions please contact me and I can supply a great deal more pictures and answer any specific questions you may have. Would make a terrific "surfmobile" for the aficionado. Woodies and Tin Woodies and highly desirable and rapidly increasing in value. The nice thing about the all steel cars is that they are maintenance free and much less costly to restore and maintain.Thanks for looking, and happy bidding!