1948 DeSoto Project

[Guest nshimala]

Hey guys, I'm Nic.

Just joined the forum, hoping to get some pointers and insight on some stages for my new little project. I picked up a 1948 DeSoto Custom Sunday. Right now, I'm just sort of staring at it, planning my attack and making notes of what HAS to be replaced and what options I have when restoring. So far, I've decided on keeping as much as I can as it SHOULD look, but I'm running into problems finding parts and layout info. Right now, the main stopping point is the dash. i have no clue what all the levers do. I know a few, but not all. Nor where to find parts for the dash. Need a rear driver side fender, too. But that'll come up later. Thanks for any input guys. I have attached some pics of the project as it sits now.

[keiser31]

Welcome to the AACA forums. First of all you need to purchase a shop manual. Then you will be more familiar with what you will be needing. Your car's parts will more than likely interchange with 1946 and 1947 DeSoto parts. There are also a lot of parts from the Chrysler that will work/match. Go here for parts and information....WPC Home - the World's Largest Chrysler Products Club !

[Guest nshimala]

Thanks for the link, I'll look into that today. I already have a shop manual for it, but it doesn't focus much on accessories. I plan on a different engine (no clue what to do with the one I have in there now, doesn't run),

[keiser31]

Why change engines?

[Guest nshimala]

The engine that's in there was already in pieces and rusted all over. Seemed like it might be too much trouble. I was thinking of dropping in a 350 small block or something similar, and keep the straight 6 to toy around with and slowly rebuild it.

[keiser31]

Oh no......not ANOTHER 350 SBC in a MoPar!!!

[Guest nshimala]

HAHA! Hey, I'm open to suggestions. Just want it to run. If is has a deep rumble to it, then that's a bonus.

[Guest 454Desoto]

Looks like you might find a dead hooker in the back of that there car.

[MCHinson]

nshimala,

Welcome to the AACA Discussion Forum. I have to admit that I know very little about DeSotos personally, especially those of the late 40's. I have a friend who has done some amazing work on a much earlier and rarer DeSotos. While I can't help you much, there are other members here who can certainly help you with information on how to properly restore your car. The AACA Discussion Forum is designed for discussion of restoration of vehicles as originally manufactured. The default position here should be that it is easier and better to repair, restore, or replace your engine with the correct original equipment. Dropping a GM crate engine into a DeSoto is not the answer. If you want to restore your car, people here can help you. If you want to create a modified car or a street rod, there are other sites on the internet where you will be able to find people who can better help you with that. I hope you choose to correctly restore your car, but only you can decide what you want to do. Good luck.