Tom Griffin's 1950 Ford

This 1950 Ford represents a significant piece of American custom car history, showcasing extensive modifications that highlight creativity and craftsmanship. Owned by Tom Griffin and currently located in Portland, Oregon, this vehicle's journey from its initial customization in the early 1950s through various transformations to its present condition provides insight into the evolving trends and techniques within the custom car culture. Photo courtesy of Dale Moreau.

The car's first major customization supposedly occurred in the early 1950s, and according to rumors, the 5-inch sectioned body might be the work of Valley Customs, a shop known for their expertise in automotive modifications. Photo courtesy of Dale Moreau.

In the mid-1980s to mid-1990s, Johnny's Customs in Salinas, California, further enhanced the vehicle by installing a rolled rear pan, incorporating a Camaro sub-frame, and upgrading the engine to a small block Chevy 350ci V-8 paired with a 350 three-speed automatic transmission. These modifications not only improved the car's performance but also its aesthetic appeal and road presence. Photo courtesy of Dale Moreau.

The most recent known modifications were undertaken in 2013 by Hot Dog Customs in Temecula, California, focusing on updating the vehicle's paint and upholstery. This phase of customization aimed to refresh the car's appearance while preserving its historic character and custom features. This 1950 Ford Custom embodies the innovative spirit of custom car culture, reflecting the ongoing evolution of automotive design and customization from the 1950s to the present day. Its journey from an ambitious customization project to a celebrated classic car underscores the importance of craftsmanship, creativity, and community within the custom car scene. Photo courtesy of Dale Moreau.

Photo courtesy of Dale Moreau.

Photo courtesy of Dale Moreau.

Photo courtesy of Dale Moreau.

Photo courtesy of Dale Moreau.

Tom Griffin, the current owner, and Dale Moreau, a friend and fellow custom car enthusiast, are seeking to connect with individuals who have knowledge or historical information about this vehicle. Their goal is to document the car's history more thoroughly. They encourage anyone with information, memories, or connections to this old custom to reach out to Kustomrama at mail@kustomrama.com to share their stories. Photo courtesy of Dale Moreau.

Lost and Found

This 1950 Ford represents a significant piece of American custom car history, showcasing extensive modifications that highlight creativity and craftsmanship. Owned by Tom Griffin and currently located in Portland, Oregon, this vehicle's journey from its initial customization in the early 1950s through various transformations to its present condition provides insight into the evolving trends and techniques within the custom car culture.

Initial Customization and Specifications

The car's first major customization supposedly occurred in the early 1950s, and according to rumors, the 5-inch sectioned body might be the work of Valley Customs, a shop known for their expertise in automotive modifications. Additional modifications during this period encompassed rounding the hood corners, integrating 1955 Chevrolet headlights into the front fenders, installing a rolled front pan, adding a floating 1955 DeSoto grille bar, and frenching the taillights, all contributing to the car's distinctive appearance.

Subsequent Modifications

In the mid-1980s to mid-1990s, Johnny's Customs in Salinas, California, further enhanced the vehicle by installing a rolled rear pan, incorporating a Camaro sub-frame, and upgrading the engine to a small block Chevy 350ci V-8 paired with a 350 three-speed automatic transmission. These modifications not only improved the car's performance but also its aesthetic appeal and road presence.

The most recent known modifications were undertaken in 2013 by Hot Dog Customs in Temecula, California, focusing on updating the vehicle's paint and upholstery. This phase of customization aimed to refresh the car's appearance while preserving its historic character and custom features. This 1950 Ford Custom embodies the innovative spirit of custom car culture, reflecting the ongoing evolution of automotive design and customization from the 1950s to the present day. Its journey from an ambitious customization project to a celebrated classic car underscores the importance of craftsmanship, creativity, and community within the custom car scene.

Can You Help Us Trace the History of the Car?

Tom Griffin, the current owner, and Dale Moreau, a friend and fellow custom car enthusiast, are seeking to connect with individuals who have knowledge or historical information about this vehicle. Their goal is to document the car's history more thoroughly. They encourage anyone with information, memories, or connections to this old custom to reach out to Kustomrama at mail@kustomrama.com to share their stories.