Old Ford Pick-Up Trucks: A Timeless Utility

Since you buy all your classic Ford parts from us, we thought we would enlighten you to a product that you might find useful! Let’s say you’re cruising around town in your Classic Ford… you’re reveling in the number of folks you see looking at your ride (yes your car, not you anymore). You roll to a stop easily and decide to turn the corner and drive down Main Street to see if any of your buddies have made it to the Burger Barn. Suddenly, you feel “clunk” and you KNOW the old Ford didn’t come that way from the factory, so you begin to wonder “Hmmm, what could the old girl need now?”Finishing the cruise you head home and call it a night. Next day you’re up and at ‘em, headed out to the garage. You whizz past your wife in your grubby's and wonder for a moment why she has a big grin on her face, “Oh well, she musta been on the phone” you figure. With a big grin on your face and a wave to the wife, you whistle out loud as you head out the door thinking, “I’ll be at this most of the day” After organizing your tool box and getting everything ready for troubleshooting you begin to diagnose what could be ailing your “baby”. After troubleshooting for a while, you begin to realize that the bushing in the upper steering tube has worn out. It turned to rock and the steering shaft is wobbling around in the tube causing the clunk you felt last night. “Well, that’s a relief” you gush, “I don’t need to tear apart the front end!” “I wonder if Ford has a warranty recall on those” you chuckle to yourself as you pull your dog eared copy of your trusty C&G Ford Parts catalog off the shelf. You see that there is a replacement rubber upper bushing that often gets worn out over the years. “Just what I need” you think. “Hold the phone, what’s this?” you spot a new- fangled “kit” that only C&G has! This Upper Steering tube bearing kit includes bearing, spring, and bushing sleeve that replaces the original rubber bushing for a longer lasting, easier turning, tight fit. The kit includes a diagram to show you exactly where to install the parts, and in it what order. “Excellent” you whistle. So you pick up the phone, call C&G and after speaking to some friendly and knowledgeable parts folk, you have your kit on the way. A couple days later, your classic Ford parts show up and you’re ready to install the new B-3517-K kit you ordered. Remove the steering wheel. Remove original rubber bushing from over worm shaft. Install in this order- bearing , sleeve , spring. Make sure the tapered ends are facing down on both bearing and sleeve, drive the bearing down the worm shaft about 3/4" with a large socket, then let sleeve follow. Finally, put spring over worm shaft, in-between the sleeve and the steering wheel. Put steering wheel back on and tighten down the steering nut. No more play in the upper part of the column! Steering Tube Bearing Kit B-3517-K

The 1955 Ford Fairlane: A Classic Icon of American Automotive History In the realm of classic American automobiles, the 1955 Ford Fairlane stands out as a significant model that marked Ford's return to prominence in the auto market. Named after Henry Ford's estate, Fair Lane, in Dearborn, Michigan, the Fairlane was introduced as Ford's premier car for that year. With a new frame and 11" brakes, the Fairlane replaced the Crestline as the flagship offering. Design and Styling The 1955 Fairlane was distinguished by its elegant and modern styling, characterized by a lower, longer, and wider profile compared to its predecessors. It featured a distinctive stainless steel stripe running along its side with striking 2 tone paint schemes, which became a hallmark of the Fairlane models. The car was offered in six different body styles, including two- and four-door sedans, hardtop, and a convertible known as the Sunliner. A standout among these was the Crown Victoria, which boasted a tinted, transparent roof panel, adding a futuristic touch to its design. Engine and Performance The Fairlane came equipped with options for both a 223 cubic inch (3.7 L) straight-six engine, a 272 cubic inch (4.5 L) V8, or a 292 cubic inch V8 (4.8 L) with a 4 barrel carb providing buyers with choices tailored to different performance needs. The V8, in particular, was a point of interest for its power and smooth operation. Transmission options included a Fordomatic automatic or a three-speed manual. Market Impact The introduction of the Fairlane was part of a broader effort by Ford to rejuvenate its lineup and recapture market share from competitors like Chevrolet. The Fairlane was not just a vehicle; it was a statement of Ford's commitment to innovation and style. In 1955, Ford managed to outsell Chevrolet, ending a 20-year streak where Chevy had been the best-selling car in America, a testament to the Fairlane's appeal and Ford's strategic marketing. Features and Accessories Ford emphasized luxury and convenience with the Fairlane. It included features like dual exhaust systems on higher-end models which improved both performance and sound. The car also introduced several firsts, including Ford's first factory-installed air conditioning system, known as "Select Aire," which was optional. Innovations like the panoramic windshields, new for 1955, offered drivers a broader view, enhancing safety and driving experience. Cultural Impact The 1955 Fairlane wasn't just a car; it became an emblem of the era's optimism and love for automotive style. Its design and engineering influenced subsequent Ford models and left a lasting impression on American car culture. The Fairlane's success helped pave the way for future models, including the introduction of the Fairlane 500. Legacy Today, the 1955 Ford Fairlane is celebrated by collectors and car enlthusiasts for its blend of style, performance, and historical significance. Restorations are common, and the car's parts are sought after, with companies like Classic Industries providing a range of reproduction parts for enthusiasts looking to bring their Fairlane back to its original splendor. In conclusion, the 1955 Ford Fairlane was more than just another car on the road; it was a symbol of Ford's resurgence and a reflection of the vibrant automotive culture of the 1950s. Its design, performance, and the enduring legacy it left behind continue to make it a beloved piece of automotive history.

As a classic Ford enthusiast, my journey in the realm of restoration has been nothing short of exhausting. The thrill of bringing a vintage beauty back to its former glory is unparalleled. However, this passion comes with its challenges, the most significant being sourcing the right parts. This is where classic reproduction Ford parts have become a game-changer for someone like me. For years, the pursuit of authentic, original used and NOS parts was akin to searching for a needle in a haystack. These parts, often scarce and very expensive, could mean the difference between a stalled project and a triumphant restoration. Then entered the world of reproduction parts – a world that has not only made restoration more accessible but also more reliable. Initially, I was skeptical about using reproduction parts. Would they fit correctly? Would they maintain the authentic look and feel of my classic Ford? These concerns, however, were quickly dispelled. Modern reproduction parts are crafted so that they seamlessly blend with the original components. Manufacturers use advanced technologies and materials to replicate parts. One of the biggest advantages I've experienced with reproduction parts is the availability of parts. Unlike original parts, which may have undergone decades of wear and tear, reproduction parts are brand new and often incorporate modern engineering improvements. This doesn't just bring peace of mind; it enhances the driving experience, making it safer and more enjoyable. From a cost perspective, reproduction parts are generally more affordable than their NOS counterparts. This affordability has allowed me to allocate resources to other aspects of restoration, like professional paint jobs or interior refurbishments. Moreover, the availability of these parts means less time scouring swap meets and more time in the garage, doing what I love. In conclusion, classic reproduction Ford parts have transformed the restoration landscape for enthusiasts like me. They bridge the gap between the past and the present, ensuring that the legacy of classic Fords continues to cruise down our roads, not just reside in our memories. They are a testament to the evolving nature of car restoration, blending tradition with innovation, and keeping the spirit of classic Fords alive and roaring.