While the Germans have gone down in history for their air cooled automobiles, the American made air cools are much less common to find. Although equally as cool, the design and layout differ significantly, and I feel that Franklins are one of the more interesting cars of their time. It is clear that this 92 year old car has been tucked away somewhere safe, but it is unclear how long this Franklin has been at rest. With several days remaining, this rare American delight is currently bid up to $3,025. Take a look at it here on eBay out of Eugene, Oregon.
While you could have purchased a dandy and fine Model T in 1926, this Franklin was certainly an interesting choice for its styling, if not its mechanical layout. You will notice that there is a faux radiator on this car to cater to what was a more standard design appearance of the time. The engine is a unique American marvel as it is an inline 6 cylinder engine with a large air collector that draws air through the front of the vehicle via a fan mounted to the crankshaft. Air is then forced over the top end of the engine down onto the cylinders themselves. Certainly a marvel of American history, this old 6 cylinder hasn’t run in many years.
While this view of the interior appears fair, the rest of the interior needs attention. I am guessing that this Franklin found itself in a humid or moist environment as there is some light mold to be found inside of this car. If I had to guess further, this car looks to be a stalled restoration project as some interior items are removed, and some things appear new such as the steering wheel. I wouldn’t want to have to do it, but I feel that the moldy interior upholstery has got to go, unless somehow it survived well enough to sustain a satisfactory cleaning.
While there is surface rust to be seen, there is still a lot of what could be original paint on this Franklin. The body has aged nicely with only two major concerns to make mention of. First of all the driver rear fender has a small amount of rot on the rear inner edge, and the passenger rear door has a hole punched in it. There looks to be a few areas on the rear of the car where it looks like someone either primered or performed some minor body work. A few bends can be found in the fenders, but none of which have any creases so they could likely be straightened out with little fuss. Certainly, a unique and stand out veteran machine, this Franklin would be sure to draw attention at events for its quirky styling, and unique engine. Have you ever seen one of these rare air cooled veterans?
LS swap! No, this is a neat car, I hope it gets the restoration it deserves.
A unique car that needs to be restored and driven.
Along with Abner Doble’s steamers, Franklins have always fascinated me since I was not much more than a toddler (Eisenhower was President to give you a timeframe).
Hopefully, this one will be picked up by an appreciative enthusiast.
Skorzeny, just to follow on from your tongue-in-cheek opening line, perhaps I should call my friends at the Tatra factory in the Czech Republic and see if they have one of their air-cooled diesels that could be shoehorned into the Franklin’s engine compartment..? ;-)
Now that would be a one of a kind ride!
It’s an interesting company, Skorzeny, with a fascinating history.
I lived in CZ in 2004/05, teaching Business English and professional skills – call it a ‘working holiday’ from my usual business activities.
While there, I pitched my services to Tatra’s CEO, to see if there were ways to ramp up production of both its truck range and find markets for the company’s air-cooled diesel engines.
While an old design, the mills were able to meet the then Euro emissions specs using the old mechanical fuel injection system and with a switch to electronic injection, could meet future requirements.
I saw the range suitable for marine and industrial use, which would have fitted in well with Tatra’s manufacturing capabilities.
Unfortunately for me, just as the discussions were leading to formalising a contract, Terex decided to quit its ownership of Tatra and put the business on the market. C’est la vie…
I now have a new respect for beatnik bedouin. Fascinating!
I am humbled, Skorzeny… seriously.
Let’s just say that I’ve had an interesting – and sometimes colourful – life, which anyone could replicate to suit themselves, once they realise they can do so, too.
Helen Keller said, “Life is a daring adventure, or nothing…”
If you’re even in mid-state New York, visit the NorthEast Auto Museum in Norwich, NY. They have the largest collection of Franklins I’ve ever seen (literally an entire wing dedicated to them), including a few one of ones and if I’m remembering right the last one ever manufactured.
Air cooled? I learn something every day.
You might find this of interest, Michael: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Franklin_(automobile)
Nice car for the area for the times. I had to laugh at the “Smith’s urinal” sight glass.
I should note that the “firsts” that the Franklin car company came up with are mostly still in use today. Credit where due.
Sold my 30 Franklin back in 65 to purchase my wifes engagement ring. Made the correct choice but still wish I could of had both. Lots of wood but a great auto. They were made in my hometown, Syracuse NY. Also builder of aircraft engines.
Art , wasn’t this the same aircraft engine company that Preston Tucker bought and used for his cars?
I actually got to drive one of my best hihh school Buds Dad owned and restored Franklin in the early 60’s.
His Dad was a $ guy in an old linageTacoma Wa. family of $ guys.
We actually cruised and took it out on nice eves on double dates when his folks were gone.
Loved driving it, as the bud liked to be hands free with his date; Driving and braking began 50 yards from lights kept my hands occupied.
For years in Skamokaway Wa. one of these sat in weeds of an old Communist Finns field that was full of all vintage types, but he would not sell even a piece of any cuz he was saving the metal for when the Commies came.
Yup , he was tiched in the head and when he died before the commies came some relative sold the whole thing land and all.
I did volunteer to help buds dad tinker a bit, and they took a lot of tinkering to keep up.
Restore, Restore, Restore, cuz guess what. there are rebuilable and rebuilt motors still out in the statosphere of $ boys wallets. As a flipper best know woods but mechanics which are simple and streight forward and fenderman has plenty thick metal to restreighten.
The car driven by the Baldwin sisters on The Waltons was a Franklin also.