A 'Woody' with the Works

MELBOURNE, Australia, Aug. 24, 2009 -- ‘Woodies’ have always been treasured by American enthusiasts, with a private collection of these distinctive timber-paneled vehicles from the 1930s and 1940s selling earlier this month for AU$8.5 million in California.

Originally the preserve of wealthy families, ‘Woody’ wagons became cult vehicles in the late 1950s and 1960s as a new generation of young surfers began using them to transport their surfboards and they soon found their way into pop music culture.

Now with Australians warming to Woodies, Shannons are offering the ultimate timber twosome at their August 31 Melbourne Spring Auction.

The spectacular custom 1934 Ford ‘Woody’ Station Wagon and its matching ‘Teardrop’ camper are a unique award-winning combination that has been featured in several magazines and recently won the ‘Best Custom Commercial’ award at the Victorian Hot Rod Show.

Completely rebuilt four years ago, the Ford now runs a 351 Cleveland V8 with a 650cfm four-barrel carburettor, an FMX column-change automatic, Chrysler diff and fully independent Ford front-end with power disc brakes.

Painted in striking Festiva Blue with a red pearl overlay and hand painted pinstriping, the Ford has a steel body with fibreglass mudguards, while the station wagon section was built from marine ply, finished with nine coats of clear marine varnish.

Inside, the upholstery is trimmed in leather with matching carpet, while the roof is covered in BMW blue cloth.

Fitted with air conditioning and a premium sound system (with concealed radio and speakers), the finishing touch is a Malibu surfboard done in matching pinstriping.

The Ford’s brand new ‘Teardrop’ trailer was built to an original 1950s design, but incorporates many modern features.

It is fully insulated, with 12-volt and 24-volt electrics throughout and features a double bed mattress, linen, blankets, pillows, a portable gas cooker, car fridge and, of course, a record player on which to play your Beach Boys favourites,

Shannons expect this unique Ford and its camper to bring AU$75,000-$90,000.

The Woody rig is one of 35 vehicles in Shannons Melbourne Spring Auction, with 13 of the lots being sold with no reserve.