1949 Ford Custom Convertible

This 1949 Ford custom’s story has appeared in many publications, including Street Rodder Magazine in 2017, and the car is now available from Maxmotive’s Boca Raton FL showroom. Built by noted customizer Joe Bailon, it made its debut in 1954 at the legendary Oakland Roadster Show, at a time when radical customs ruled the hot rod world. This one was not only converted to a pickup, it was chopped, channeled, and sectioned with frenched headlights from a Merc and taillights from a ‘54 Pontiac. It would then lie dormant for many years before being resurrected by Jeff Nickell’s Customs. Jeff lovingly restored the car — called the “Shampoo Truck” due to its use as a promotional vehicle for hair-care products — which is believed to have been driven just 497 miles since the restoration. It pays homage to a great period in automotive history. The PPG red and black paint is highlighted by period-correct hand pinstriping. The custom two-tone bench seat interior features more striping on the dash. A big 1957 Cadillac V8 provides smooth torquey power and a 700R4 automatic makes it easy to drive. The build is well engineered with extensive body and chassis reinforcements to handle the power. This historic 1949 Ford custom is a show winner that can be driven and enjoyed.