QuestionI am a wanna be car buff. I found a 1949 Studebaker Champion that looks to be in fairly decent shape. Little rust along the rocker panels, the fenders and qrt panels. The interior is not in very good shape but it runs. I haven't looked it over really well yet but plan to soon. They want $2500 for it. Is it worth it and are there parts readily available for these vehicles? I did notice I would need to replace interior door panels, carpet kit and the seats. I didn't pay attention to the headliner though. I also noticed the mecanism for the blickers is taped to the steering colum with electrical tape and where could I find a service mannual for it?
AnswerThe Studebaker Drivers club is a world beater of a support group. You'll find all the information you need, and a wealth of parts there. I have been a member for over 30 years - it's the best club in the hobby, bar none! Contact them at www.StudebakerDriversclub.com
I can only guess at the value of the car without seeing it. If it is running and driveable, and shows no major problems, it is probably worth around that - you won't get hurt at that price. Be advised, though, that it is expensive to do major repairs on any old car, so be prepared to pay twice that before you are proud to be seen in it!
These are great cars. We drove one for years - it was reliable, comfortable, and certainly unique in our neighborhood! And, they get great gas mileage, especially if it has overdrive (most do).
Get it, then tell me about it - I'll help you get it going as much as I can!
Dick.
