Surf City '38

Ok, 1936 model LF 35, so this is serial number 8390948, production began Dec. 1935 and ended Dec 1936. They made 19,302 total units in Michigan and this unit is number 2,747, making this an early model 1936. Not any roads on the Island so very interesting how it made it there and why.....

Looks like a 1936 1 1/2 ton with a 136" wheelbase, the notch on the top of the radiator shell and the rear dual axle tells me its a 1936 1 1/2 ton. Take a clearer photo of the serial number and I can then confirm.

Wish I could...I have checked with Chrysler Heritage, cross-referenced Build Cards, and even checked with some of the "old timers", the answer I always get is, "its a body tag, used to ID the body back to the traveler prior to getting the serial number/VIN stamped". I even researched the Budd Plant records to see if any of the door part numbers would correlate back to these numbers with no luck...

Yes this is the original engine from the build card, T58-1958, stamped just below the "Motor No." box below.

One piece, but with many holes.....all over the place....I will be so glad once i get the drive train in....all down hill after that.

Final engine assembly, after dyno engine break in, blue printed and molly coated....

Old and new water distribution tubes....

Newly vulcanized frame bumpers...even have the Dodge Chrysler Plymouth Desoto logo embossed and a part number, amazing job....

Agreed this is a rare City of Commerce (LA) Maywood Assembly plant unit, only 2,686 units produced.

Bonds on the title expire after 3 years in Cali, title is solid after that. Q: Does a Bonded Title look different than a regular title? A: Not really. The only difference between a Bonded Title and a regular title is that a Bonded Title is branded ‘bonded’. A Bonded Title and a regular title function exactly the same and allow you to register, insure, and sell your vehicle. The ‘bonded’ brand can be removed from your title usually within 3-5 years (depending on the state you live in). The 3-5 year time period starts from the date the original bonded title was issued. It does not start over if the title is transferred into someone else's name. Once the 3-5 year period ends, it is the responsibility of the current title owner to go to the DMV and apply for a clean title.

Same for Cali

What part of SoCal you in, i.e. SF Valley, San Gab Valley, South Bay, OC? I know of several shops but not a one stop shop...what systems need repair, i.e engine, transmission, rear end, body...etc...?

You can try Linda here, https://www.ramreproductions.com/ last time I talked to her she had a '35 & '36 frame....

They are available on ebay too....

'36, '37 and '38 are basically the same in many ways....so unscrew the four tapered screws in the side center, on each side, and release the block inside the track, both halves should come apart. I had to use a drill to get my screws out, they had rusted. I have searched and purchased many items online from various vendors trying to save a buck or two...9 times out of 10, I always get the right part/fit/feel from DCM the first time...they may not be the cheapest, but they save me a bunch of time...I do not have to worry about if its right. Steve and Todd are also rebuilders so they know exactly what we are up against....rust, oil, rats, broken glass....they even can provide step by step instructions if you need it....good guys. (This is not a paid endorsement and is my own opinion)