Hallett's '35 Convertible

Pieced together over a six year period using bits from a sedan and a coupe...

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The concept of this car was probably hatched some 20 years ago by my cousin, Ian Hardman, who has been my hot-rodding influence for most of my life. His passion for early Fords is infectious and after completing my last build, a 1963 Ford Falcon Sprint convertible that was featured in Australian Street Rodding, issue 285, I was looking for a project.

Ian had been collecting parts for years with the ’35 convertible in mind, but like most rodders, had too many projects and not enough time to complete them all. He suggested that it might be something I may consider, and with his infectious passion, I was soon hooked.

The deal sealer for me was that the chassis had already been completed, original ’35 rails boxed, HK Holden front end, Commodore rack, Jag rear, and the motor being a 351 Cleveland to which I later added an AOD four-speed overdrive auto. Ian had also made custom extractors and engine pipes back to the mufflers, a Ford XB brake booster and the master cylinder had also been installed. Ian had completed lots of custom work including a sump modification to allow for the steering shaft, heat shields for both battery and brake components and a Rod-Tech brake pedal was mounted and connected.