Re: How many cars actually came with sidemounts?

Posted by Tim Cole On 2012/6/12 16:31:55

I actually never had much trouble working around the Deluxe Equipment. On the 16th and later series the motors are so hard to get at that another obstacle doesn't much matter. However, compared to most modern contrivances even those are a breeze.

A lot of open cars were converted back in the 50's and 60's so that five wheelers are scarce. Gordon Weber had a 10th series five wheeler that was really attractive. It's in Turnquist's book. Also, the cars ride a lot better without sidemounts. When they moved that weight away from the running board it created stability problems.

However, in a collision the Deluxe Equipment was a benefit. Once on the CCCA Caravan a boat trailer got loose and broadsided a 903 Dual Cowl Phaeton. It hit the driver's side sidemount and went down the side of the car. In another case someone I knew was being shaken down by the cops and was hit by a truck. The truck hit the side mount and bounced away.

In those days, you really needed the extra spare and the option was quite popular and judging from period pictures as popular as five wheelers although I don't think sales figures exist.

The big set back today is that taking the spare off to do serious motor work risks scratching paint jobs so spares come out only as a last resort.