Wayne Wright's 1953 Studebaker Starlight Coupe - The Karat Kart
1953 Studebaker Starlight Coupe owned by San Bernardino Krankers member Wayne Wright of San Bernardino, California. Known as the "Karat Kart," Wayne's Studebaker was a clean and understated custom that preserved the natural body lines of the 1953 Studebaker while adding personal touches throughout.
Contents
History
Wayne started with a stock 1953 Studebaker two-door Starlight Coupe. Cleanliness was his motto, so he decided not to change his car's style. He first nosed and decked the Stud and cleaned the body up.[1]
Body and Paint
The stock grill had to go. A wire-mesh grill with some chrome goodies seemed to be the best bet for a different look with little body change, but the standard wire mesh was all too common. The US Navy once again came through in the clutch and supplied the answer. Wire mesh from the air cleaners of a submarine provided a really unique grill backing. Chrome knobs from kitchen cabinets added the necessary highlight.[1]
The choice of paint color was a hard one. "Champagne Mist," rich in luster and full of metal, was finally chosen. A set of full-length lake pipes added a touch of decor to the sleek Studey lines.[1]
Four cheaters graced the underside of Wayne's ride. Instead of the usual cheater caps, four rod plugs from some Thermos bottles were used to plug the ends.[1]
Interior
To keep the same color theme inside and out, gold and white Tuck and Roll was installed. White forms the mainstay of the seatcovers and gold is used mostly as a trim. All the metal, dash, window wells, etc., had been painted black for contrast.[1]
Engine
Wayne built the Studebaker engine up to 3/4 race. The mill was a collection of many different makes of equipment. The four-barrel came from a 1956 Buick Century while the valves were from a Lincoln. Further pieces for speed were Jahn racing pistons and a Claysmith 3/4 cam. The engine had also been ported, relieved and polished.[1]
The engine compartment was very neat and attractive. There were liberal splashings of chrome around, and the block was painted gold. The compartment was kept very clean and served as a compliment for the little Stud which has been shown under the name of the "Karat Kart."[1]
Magazine Features and Appearances
- The San Bernardino County Sun January 23, 1960
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 Jim Harris, "Car Corner - Sleek and Sassy" (Photo by Ron Gravette), The San Bernardino County Sun, January 23, 1960
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