THE SONOMA COUNTY FALCONS FOR FUN CHAPTER
CHARLIE PHILLIPS’ FORD FALCON SEDAN DELIVERY
Story and Photos by Al Aiello
ÓSomebody had the vision to save it, and that person was Charlie Philips. Charlie Phillips has been a member of the Sonoma County Falcons for Fun (SCFF) Chapter for approximately one year, and that is just about how much time it has taken to re-create his 1964 Falcon Delivery Deluxe.
The Delivery was purchased from another SCFF Member in a sorry state who found it in a salvage yard. Where others may have walked on by, Charlie saw something in this vehicle and brought it back (and past) its former Glory. At the time of this writing the Delivery is receiving finishing touches.
Charlie did not have a lot of time to devote to the restoration of this rare bird due to his busy work schedule, so he turned to Bill Johns to take care of most of the work. There was quite a bit of work to do as one can tell from the before and after pictures.
Bill Johns is also an SCFF Member and he’s had his hands and wrenches into many SCFF vehicles. Others may not have taken this job on, but Bill is a Falcon lover with focused perseverance. He also had some assistance with the restoration from Steve Rice. Bill started from scratch, and with the exception of the body and paint work, re-created the beautiful bird.
A 1964 Falcon Delivery Deluxe is one rare bird. For you data plate officials, the numbers are as follows: Body - 78B, Color - M, Trim - 66, Date - 18J, DSO - 71, Axle -5, Trans - 1. Rather than go the "stock" route, Charlie "specified" and received many options on his Falcon.
(Charlie's NQS Ford 302 Engine Compartment)
The bird is powered by what Charlie describes as a NQS 302 engine. I had to ask about the NQS designation, and Charlie replied "Not quite stock". The engine is balanced and has many high performance features. Original power steering equipment was installed for Charlie’s driving pleasure, but Charlie did not stop here.
(Before Photo of the Sedan Delivery)
Charlie also wanted Air Conditioning, so a handsome and efficient "Vintage" AC system was installed. The vehicle is equipped with disc brakes on all 4 wheels. It has a Lincoln V. rear end, and a 2 1/2 inch custom exhaust system which is somewhat muffled by Flow Masters. Oh yeah, I almost forgot the beautiful "American" mags.
The interior dash is painted a matching yellow, and the contrasting black gauge cluster and steering wheel make a pleasing visual impact. Charlie wanted power windows, so Charlie received power on all three, yes three, remember this is a Delivery. Charlie also wanted a power antenna, so guess what? How many of you know of Falcon with a power antenna. This is my first one. To soften his ride, Charlie installed power front (bucket) and rear seats from a ‘86 Cougar.
(Charlie Phillips’ Beautiful Ford Falcon Sedan Delivery)
Charlie plans to drive this vehicle. He will use it in his site planning business. We expect to see his logo on the side panels soon. I think some business could be directed his way with this rare form of advertising.
Thank you Charlie, and Bill, for bringing this one back. Oh yeah Charlie, be careful backing up and changing lanes in that yellow beauty!