Hi guys. I am the proud (I hope) new owner of a 1950 Olds wagon. I haven't even seen it yet but I,m trembling in anticipation. I'm an old hot rod guy and have owned several old Fords & Chevys but never an Olds so I am hoping I can count on members of this forum for info & education. Thanks in advance for that. As far as I know the car is stock with the exception of a later 324? engine and a 4 spd trans. I intend to drive it so I am particularly interested in any tips to improve ride, handling, & performance as well as the best parts sources for all stuff 50 Olds.

 

Hi Bud, and welcome to the site.

I live an hour north of you and love wagons as well--especially hot-rod wagons like yours.

 

Welcome and congrats. Look forward to some pictures.

 

Do you know anything more about it other than it's a '50 Olds wagon? Olds actually offered two wagons for 1950, one in each of the 76 and 88 series. If yours is a 76, then the original engine was a 257 cubic inch straight six. It would seem reasonable that someone might want to replace that with a V-8 from the same era. If your wagon is an 88, then the original engine was a 303 V-8. The 324 V-8 was first offered for the 1954 model year and was offered through 1956.

As far as transmission, for all 1950 Oldsmobiles, including the 98, a manual transmission was standard and the Hydramatic automatic was an option.

 

Thanks for your reply. The wagon is described as and badged as an 88. The previous owner said the engine is from a 56 model. It also has a 4 spd trans with reverse gear located in the right rear of the shift pattern. I don't know what that might be. The Muncies and Saginaws I am familiar with had reverse in the left forward position.

 

Welcome aboard. We are talking about a slant pan hydra matic 4 speed not a stick shift 4 speed. The reference of the reverse located at the right bottom of the indicator would mean it's a Slant Pan and not a Jet-away 4 speed , all are automatics both available in 56. The Slant Pan being stronger and the Jet-away being a little smoother in shifting. Sure would like to see some pictures.... Lost in the fifties...Tedd

 

Thanks Ted. I know I saw a floor shifter and I could swear I saw a clutch pedal. We'll see when it gets here.

 

Where is the car coming from ?

 

California

 

Bud, congrats on the purchase. I'm sure you'll be happy with it. I saw a 50 Olds 88 tin woody for sale a few years ago in southern CA or NV. I wonder if this might be the same one? Post pics when you get a chance.