Having lived a colorful life, literally and figuratively, this ’36 Chevrolet Master Deluxe is a very solid project that is moving in the right direction. With a freshly rebuilt engine, and a very original interior, this Chevrolet needs its mechanicals buttoned up to be a driver once again. You could make this Chevy yours for the buy it now price of $5,999. Check it out here on eBay out of Eau Claire, Wisconsin.
The original engine has been rebuilt with new aluminum pistons, and NOS connecting rods. Also new valves and modified new springs have been added. Everything you need to make a great engine is there, but the final details need to be worked out. The seller mentions that the oil pan is off as to shim the connecting rods for the correct tolerance. While that may be a bit of a chore, I know there are many folks out there that can accept that challenge. Once getting the rods right, and getting the valve train situated, simple reassembly would be needed to get this over head valve 6 cylinder running again. While you are at it, the brake and fuel systems would also be in need of attention. Many gaskets are included, and it sounds as if everything you need is there. All you need to do is make the time to get it all done.
While there is no complete image of the interior, from the bits and pieces that can be seen, the interior appears to be very original and in reasonable condition. The seller states that he has removed the seats for “ease of access” but that the seats are included and are not ripped or heavily damaged like most originals of this age. Beyond repair, the carpet is heavily worn needing to be replaced. I think a solid cleaning, and some detailing would make for a functional and original interior.
Originally black, this Chevrolet has changed colors a few times over the decades. The current blue isn’t a terrible shade, and actually has a pleasant patina. There are a few areas with chipped paint, but overall there is still a lot of paint coverage. While there aren’t any immediate signs of rust on this Chevy, the seller admits that there is some previous body work that occurred, as well as some current easily repaired rust as well. There is a minor dent in the front driver fender that could use some gentle work, but as whole the car appears very reasonable. I think you could get away with fixing the mechanicals, then cleaning up the interior and exterior to have a great cruiser. Do you have what it takes to get this Chevrolet Master Deluxe going again?
It’s a ’36 for sure. I’m surprised that it’s running spoke wheels instead of steel artillery wheels. That part wouldn’t be all that hard to change I guess. The engine would be the 206, which would still be running three mains. That’s OK in that it would likely be running a forged steel crankshaft. No problem shimming the conrods. If the babbit is true, then plastigauge will work just fine to determine the clearance. Just don’t get them too tight. The only thing I don’t like about many Chevys is that most of them had that ‘Knee Action’ front suspension. It worked OK when properly adjusted but could be knocked out of alignment quite easily. Then try to get it properly adjusted. I used to know a guy who was quite adept at Knee Action front ends but everything he knew ended up going in the ground with him. Overall I see a decent project here. Lots of work yet to be done but I don’t think it will break the bank.
$5000.00 headache
Engine does’nt look rebuilt to me, its still not together.if it runs its worth 4grand tops.
Yea Geomechs better pull the Babbitt pounder six out and make sure the bottom end is ok. Subbing in a 235 with inserts would be my choice, This is one cool little Chevy. Even a 283 would be cool, leave the outside alone. Good luck to the new owner!!
Cheers
GPC