1939 Chevrolet Master Deluxe Business Coupe, Custom
This is a Custom 1939 Chevrolet Master Deluxe Business Coupe that was a no-expenses-spared project completed soon after the millennium began. It is powered by a modern GM 350 V8 sitting under the power-operated hood – check the video on this, not to be missed. The engine just starts the modifications list. This is a one-of-a-kind ’39 Chev. It also features Dakota digital gauges, power windows, one-off Billet custom wheels, shaved door handles with electric opening mechanisms and a 3.73 rear differential. Built in Oshawa Ontario and sold new by a dealer in Grimsby, this two-place Business Coupe is about as Canadian as they come.
The cream-on-cream colour scheme yields a very clean look and it’s a good choice for a sunny summer day. The monochromatic exterior paint look is complemented effectively by the polished one-off Billet Specialties custom wheels and the black of the Yokohama tires, installed in 2015. The brightwork of the wheels is matched by the twin dual pipe exhaust and the differential plate visible underneath, given the aggressive stance. The power hood operates flawlessly and is a conversation piece at any cruise night or show.
On the inside, the car remains very clean, as finished when the restoration concluded in the early 2000s, about 18,000 miles driven since. The list of features is both impressive and interesting. Power windows and power driver’s seat are commonplace in modern cars but, despite not being so in 1939, this Custom is so equipped – windows can even be operated by the remote fob. Tilt steering is on offer and the power hood operated by remote fob is an impressive customization. A functional cowl vent lets fresh air into the cabin for occupant comfort. The electrically-operated door latches are controlled by a fob. Shave trunk handles are also fitted, controlled the same way – with a remote fob. The seats are upholstered in a cream-coloured leather.
The mechanicals of the car will command respect from the enthusiasts. The engine was sourced from a 2000 Suburban in 2000 after the SUV was written off following a collision with a train. It was a low-mileage engine at the time – removed from the Suburban in its model year – and has powered the truck approximately 18,000 miles since. Electronic ignition, 200 amp alternator and roller rocker valve train are in place as are a Be-Cool radiator with electric cooling fan. The rear wheels have power sent to them through a TH-350 three-speed automatic transmission shifted by a floor-mounted Lokar shifter. The rear-end features a 3.73 gear, as in use by GM in the ’67 – ’73 Camaros and Novas. Power brakes are discs all around and the front end is a Nova clip with A-frames and tie-rod ends changed during the restoration, there is a parallel leaf set up in the rear suspension. With the low mileage, this car’s oil has been changed annually – most recently in June with Amsoil – the remainder of maintenance needed has been limited to a brake fluid flush in 2022.
This 1939 Chevrolet Master Deluxe Coupe Custom is available with a car cover, some receipts for parts and fluids as well as a set of unused brake pads from the 23-year owner, who undertook the restoration, himself in Welland, Ontario.