Backfire

In February 2011, someone in Long Beach, California, called me, offering to sell a 1956 Plymouth station wagon project vehicle with no engine. Otherwise, thanks to zoning enforcement people, it was going to go to the junkyard within a week. To save it, I purchased it sight unseen, and quickly had it transported to North Carolina. Restoration work did not begin until 2015, but meanwhile, I was acquiring parts for it. I purchased a 1958 Plymouth 318 A engine that needed a complete rebuild. I also had power steering, power brakes, lap belts, and air conditioning added, which were the only other changes to the car. I wanted the car to look as original as possible. The restoration was finished in June, and I enjoy driving and owning the Suburban, the top-of-the-line wagon offered in 1956. I was age 13 when the car was manufactured. During my teenage years, I was a big fan of the styling of the “Forward Look” cars. The appeal never left me and, in last 20 years, I have restored a 1956 Plymouth two-door and four-door. I also rescued a 1956 Dodge four-door from the crusher, repaired it, put it back on the road, and someone is driving it today.

There are only six 1956 Plymouth station wagons listed in the roster of our national Plymouth Owner’s Club. Most people under age 50 have never seen a 1956