Lot details
Registration No: VXS 469
Chassis No: CD301797
Mot Expiry: Exempt

One of just four "Hook and Ladder" examples built by Overland Amusements of Lexington, Massachusetts between 1949 and 1952 for amusement park, tourist attraction and carnival usage, this novelty ride combines a Crosley CD Four Pickup with a custom-made fifth wheel `hook and ladder' trailer. The trailer features benches down both sides with wooden ladders hinging up and down to act as passenger restraints. Said to have been extensively restored whilst resident in a New Jersey museum for many years, it sports `Itty Bitty Fire Co' livery and a complement of fire-fighting equipment: extinguisher, hose, axe, bell, siren and lights etc. A guaranteed head turner and perhaps welcome at the likes of the Goodwood Revival, the `hook and ladder' is the only one of its kind outside of America. All four examples still exist and the last one to cross the block made$115,500 with Barrett Jackson in 2015!

Founded by radio pioneer Powel Crosley, Crosley Motors Inc switched from two- to four-cylinder engines after WW2 adopting the innovative 44ci (722cc) CoBra (Copper Brazed) overhead camshaft unit which had proven its worth as a generator aboard PT boats and Boeing B17 Flying Fortresses. Evolving into the CIBA (Cast Iron Block Assembly) version for 1949, the OHC powerplant developed a quoted 26.5hp and 32.5lbft of torque and was allied to three-speed manual transmission. Current from late 1948 until Crosley closed its doors on July 3rd 1952, the CD Four could be had as a Sedan, Coupe, Convertible, Station Wagon, Pickup or Panel Truck. A Crosley won the first race at Sebring and famous owners included Humphrey Bogart and President Dwight D. Eisenhower. The diminutive width of the Crosley at 48 inches is because they weren't sold through dealerships but department stores, and they had to get them through the doors!