Sunliner was the surname Ford used to market its full-size convertibles from 1952 to 1964. In 1962, when this barn find was built, it was part of the Galaxie 500 lineup. A two-owner vehicle, this dirty drop top has been in hibernation for many years and will be a challenge, though at least the engine isn’t frozen. Located in a dust bowl in Yates Center, Kansas, this once proud cruiser is crying out to be saved. It’s also available here on Facebook Marketplace for $5,500.
Convertibles were probably at their peak in the early 1960s, which would explain the demand for cars like this Sunliner. Ford built more than 42,600 Galaxie 500 Sunliners plus 13,000 more in the sportier 500XL format (bucket seats, for example). The big Fords were redesigned in 1960, but styling updates that occurred every year going forward had the ‘62s looking nothing like the ‘60s. The 1962 big Fords were perhaps the best-looking of the decade (IMO).
This ragtop (emphasis on “rag”) has a 352 cubic inch “FE” and an automatic transmission. We’re told the engine turns (by hand?), but the Ford hasn’t been started in many years. The odometer reads 8,700 miles, which probably means it’s on its second time around. Whether the car is complete is anyone’s guess. For example, where are the chrome spears on the sides of the exterior (the seller confirms they’re there somewhere)?
Back in the day, this Sunliner wore red paint with a matching interior. The body contains no Bondo or patches, so this could be a solid foundation to perform a full restoration. The seats are pretty rough, and the top is long gone, though the hardware seems to be in place. There’s an old-school air conditioner hanging under the dash, which would have been a rarity in a convertible in those days, especially in mid-America. Once again, “Zappenduster” delivers a great tip.
Wow! I bet this was something in it’s day!
Steve, is it restorable?