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This project was a gift for my first child. It combines two of my hobbies, woodworking and classic cars. My wife and I own a '55 Chevy BelAir and travel every year to the Back To The Fifties car show in St. Paul, MN. I was inspired by many other customized Radio Flyer type wagons at the show. Because I have more experience in crafting wood than steel I chose to make a wagon based on a 1920's Chevy Depot Hack. Depot Hacks, or Station wagons, were the Airport shuttle buses of the rail age. They were generally a large truck frame and engine with a big wooden body for hauling passengers and luggage. My miniature version is also, of course, modified to with the classic hotrod treatments; a "small" block V8 engine, dropped I-beam front axle, headers and a chopped roofline. Almost all of the wagon is made of ash, expect the steering wheel and handle grip, which is walnut, and of course the wheels and such. The headlights are for a bicycle and were purchased online. Our daughter has enjoyed "driving" the wagon so far, and loves ringing the bicycle bell (added after these photos). I wish I had more pictures of the making the different parts, but I was trying to squeeze in this project where I could with a new baby in our home. The only thing I would change is to find a way to make it lighter, because it is very heavy. We have received many nice comments from people at car shows and walks around town. It was a fun project and hopefully will last a long time.



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Comments

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7,192 Posts
Matt, that is absolutely outstanding! What a fun idea.
 

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Wow nice the job. I like all the details you put into this project.
 

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that is just about the coolest thing that ever I did see …......probably because it's made from wood …..and also combines my favorite things also …...... very very neat looking …....... GREAT JOB
 

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BITCHIN' project! I'd say you earned THIS today !

 

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What a fun project. Turned out great. Looks like there will be many miles of fun to come!!
 

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Car nut-sawdust fanatic-FANTASTIC Project!

I do also like that it is YOUR DESIGN! Others are sure to "borrow" the idea!

I even like the "drilled" hitch! That is also easily removed! Graat ideas all the way.
 

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Wow! Pretty realistic, with stearing wheel, wheels and engine. Colours are authentic too.
 

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That is just so neat and had to be one fun build.
One cool thing is you don't put it on a shelf but pull it around, this will help your young un to really feel part of the action when you go to a show.

The air filter and valve covers are way cool for sure!!!
 

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A very nice wagon!
 

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This is too neat. Great little wagon
 

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Fantastic idea, I have a grandson that would love one!
can you provide any details on the front axel ?
 

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What a great build for your child. Great post, but where are the pictures of your 55? I also have always wanted one. I'm not a car builder, so always rely on others to do the building and each time I thought I was ready to buy one, the price was out of my market…still is I guess these days. I sure do like to look a them
 

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Unbelievable idea, great job! That will be a family heirloom!
 

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What a great idea and really well done. Keep up the good work.
 

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I like it! You really captured the look.
 

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This sure stopped my scrolling. Really neat job. Love the work. Unique presentation. I'm sure it stopped heads and earned the looks. Well done.
 

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Now that is just Way Too Cool . It should take First in Class at the Car Show.
 

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WOW, Lovely…., with soul. GREEN LIGHT on traffic lights.
 
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