Dave Dolman's 1949 Mercury Wagon

A photo of Dolman's Mercury Wagon taken at the 2009 Sleds in September show. Dolman was a featured builder at the show. Photo courtesy of Sleds in September.

Photo courtesy of Sleds in September.

Photo courtesy of Finks Garage.

Photo courtesy of Sleds in September.

1949 Mercury Wagon custom owned and restyled by Dave Dolman of Verdon, Nebraska. Dolman's Mercury Wagon is a unique and meticulously crafted custom vehicle that stands as a testament to the artistry and ingenuity of automotive customization. Created by Dave Dolman, a skilled enthusiast and custom car builder, this steel-bodied station wagon is a phantom creation that captures the essence of a classic 1949 Mercury while incorporating a range of custom modifications that set it apart from its contemporaries.

Background

During the late 1940s and early 1950s, the automotive industry witnessed a transition from wood-framed vehicles to those with all-steel bodies. The 1949-1951 Mercury series marked this evolution, with wood frame and paneling applied over an all-steel structure. However, Dolman's Wagon takes this transition a step further by reimagining the Mercury station wagon as an all-steel vehicle with numerous custom touches.

Creative Journey and Transformation

Dolman embarked on a creative journey fueled by the ambition to transform a 1949 Mercury coupe into a distinctive and unique station wagon. His dedication and craftsmanship led to a series of ambitious modifications that spanned from 1995 to 2007. During this period, Dolman meticulously worked on the vehicle, breathing life into his vision of a custom 1949 Mercury Wagon.

Chopped Top

One of the standout features of Dolman's creation is the meticulously chopped top of the wagon. By lowering the roof height by 3.5 inches, he achieved a sleek and distinct profile that sets the vehicle apart. This modification not only contributes to the wagon's aesthetic appeal but also captures the essence of classic automotive customization.

Custom Windows and Pillars

Dolman's attention to detail extended to the integration of unique elements. He incorporated a 1957 Ford wagon roof and 1956 Ford Ranch Wagon side windows into the wagon's design. These components were artfully chopped by 4.5 inches and paired with slanted B-pillars that elegantly matched the rear pillars. This harmonious blending of different elements created a seamless and captivating visual effect.

Tailgate and Liftgate Modifications

Dolman's commitment to customization extended to the rear of the wagon. The 1956 Ford Ranch Wagon liftgate underwent a daring 4-inch chop, resulting in a distinctive and balanced appearance. Additionally, the tailgate was thoughtfully narrowed and adorned with a 1956 Mercury emblem, adding a personalized touch that pays homage to classic Mercury branding.

Hand-Built Quarters and Taillights

The upper rear quarters of the wagon stand as a testament to Dolman's skill and dedication. He meticulously hand-formed these quarters to seamlessly blend with the wagon's new configuration. The crowning touch was the addition of 1952 -1953 Mercury taillights, which were carefully capped onto the quarters. This masterful craftsmanship further enhanced the wagon's visual appeal.

Interior Transformation

Inside the wagon, Dolman's creative vision extended to a comprehensive interior transformation. The most notable addition was a 1965 Buick power front seat, contributing to both comfort and functionality. The upholstery featured a tuck 'n' roll pattern, a nod to the classic styling of 1950s Mercury models. This interior makeover not only created a comfortable driving experience but also paid homage to the era that inspired the vehicle's design.

Modern Powertrain and Suspension

To complement the vehicle's distinctive exterior, Dolman modernized the wagon's powertrain and suspension. A 1979 Chevrolet Monte Carlo front frame clip was ingeniously integrated, housing modern suspension components and power steering. The heart of the wagon was a modified GM 350 crate engine, paired with a 700-R4 automatic transmission. Dropped spindles and airbags not only contributed to the wagon's lowered stance but also provided a modern and comfortable ride.

Exterior Customizations

Dolman's attention to detail extended to every aspect of the wagon's exterior. The 1950 Mercury front bumper underwent careful modification, resulting in a narrowed profile that harmoniously aligned with the body. Frenched headlights added a touch of sophistication, while rolled front and rear pans created a clean and polished appearance. The reworked bumpers, sourced from a 1955 Pontiac and a 1951 Kaiser, showcased Dolman's ability to integrate diverse elements into a cohesive design.

Sold to Yngve Eriksson

Early in 2023, Dolman had sold the car to Yngve Eriksson.