Please help identify a Chalmers???

[Tom Laferriere]

Hi All,

I just purchased what I think is a late teens/early 20's Chalmers chassis and running gear. Someone suggested it has a Hudson rearend. The rear wheels do have Hudson hubcaps on them. Please see the link below to several hi-res pictures.

What do I have here?

Click for photos

Thanks,

Tom

[Leif Holmberg]

The headlights looks like Buick 1924-1927.

[Guest BobD735]

Hi Tom,

I believe your Chalmers is a 1917.

Your engine is prior to 1918, when Chalmers introduced the "Hot Spot" and "Rams Horn". These terms basically describe the device used to pre-heat gas going into the carburetor, and the rams horn shape of the intake manifold.

The 1916 and 1917 models used a "hot air stove", and the manifold went over the top of the engine as your photos show.

I believe Chalmers went to a square vs. round Westinghouse generator in 1917, but I would have to investigate that further. The rear end and brake parts appear to be Chalmers. The rear wheels, from the hubcap, appear to be Hudson, the front Chalmers, the headlights and their attachment are not.

You might want to check your wheelbase. Chalmers Six-30/Y Series used the 117" and 122" wheelbase, from 1917 thru 1923.

You might also consider purchasing David Chalmers Hammond's book, "Hugh Chalmers The Man And His Car", through the Chalmers Registry. This book has a lot of useful information and data, to help identify the year and model of all the Chalmers cars.

Note: Chalmers used the "Hot Spot" engine on the 1917 "Speedster" model.

Regards,

BobDB

[Tom Laferriere]

Hi Bob,

This information has been very helpful. Thank you very much! Most likely it will be for sale once I get it running and driving in the yard. Seems like the Speedster is the way to go considering there is no body left.

Thanks again,

Tom Laferriere