Im looking at a 57 ford del rio wagon. Since most cars have unique problems for their year and model anybody got any specific things I need to check.

Thanks Kenny

Kenny  Onalaska, Texas

I believe some trim on that model is rather hard to find if it's missing. Not sure on that, but I know that 56 Parklanes had a couple of pieces not found on other models or years... And check the Tailgate for rust out evidence.. A good Del Rio is worth a fair $$.

Paul

Usual places-rear floor pans,bottom of tailgate,bottom of doors,lower front fenders of course rockers.

That should keep you busy

Oldmics

I believe the side stainless and the gold trim are the same as a 57 Custom300. My dad bought one new in 57  and just hated it. Said the engine was worn out at 20k and it rusted out in just a few years. I think all of them did back then though. Sure wish I had that car now, rust & all.

Dan      Kingman Az.      86409

Yes Dan, they were somewhat rust prone, particularly if driven in major cities where salting the roads was becoming the norm around 1957. The worst area on 57-58s was around the headlite housings, due to the body design. The grill was set into a flat topped sheet metal housing, which extended over in front of the wheels. And that along with the eyebrow area above the headlites, was an invitation to trouble unless it was flushed out regularly. It was a perfect place for mud, water & salt to accumalate, and rust out all around the headlite area. The problem could have been easily prevented by installation of a flat shield in front of the wheels. Of course that never happend. As for your Dad's low mileage engine problem, I don't think that was common..

Paul

All 57's were prone to front floor pans rusting out, there is a rubber hose that drains the windsheild/cowl/wiper area, the hose pass's through the interior to the upper inner fender.The hoses deteriorate,even in good climates, the water seeps under the carpet and soon you are pedaling like Fred Flintstone.





thanks, Mark

well I got the wagon. Back floorboards are the main rust issue. thanks for the info everybody.

Kenny  Onalaska, Texas

Always are

EMS has the floor pans that you need.

Good luck on your project.

Oldmics