1953 Commander Regal Startlight Coupe - Need Front Sheet Metal

[5commander3]

I recently purchased a 1953 Commander "garage find". The car has been in storage for 49 years. Unfortunately, the original 232 has been replaced with a s/b chevy 283. The car is mostly complete and is fairly rust free. But, there are a few parts missing - The front sheet metal piece (I don't know what the part is called) that goes under the grill and fits fender to fender, the lower valance and the front bumper (brackets for the bumper are there). I have been searching the internet and have found that the front valance is available (fiberglass) even thought I prefer metal. I have located a couple of front bumpers from a couple of sources but, I have had ZERO luck in finding the sheet metal part that goes under the grill enclosures. I have been told by several vendors that this is a really hard part to find due to the popularity of the commanders front sheet being able to retro fit other Studebakers models. Looking for any advice on locating this piece or any info on any company that can fab this. Any help would greatly be appreciated.
I am so happy to have found this beauty and become a member of the Studebaker family.

[warrlaw1]

Check with our vendors. Bob Petersen (CandBStudebakers) came through with that piece for my 55K.

[Flashback]

I have one. Not sure of condition. It's off in my garage. I will check condition, and post a picture to be sure. If you don't find one closer to you, or in better condition., I might can help.

[rockne10]

WELCOME TO THE FORUM !

I would bet those pieces would be at the Reedsville Swap Meet this coming Thursday and Friday but, probably not worth the 2000 mile trip!

We also have a couple of spare 232's here in town, ready to be rebuilt if someone really wants to be authentic.

[TX Rebel]

c/k parts available at the Texas Studebaker Ranch

https://www.studebakersite.com

[Flashback]

Is this the part you need?

[5commander3]

Flashback,
looks like exactly what I'm looking for!!!

[Flashback]

I will get some better pictures and show you what it needs(it was cold last night), and see if you want it. Maybe in a couple of hours.

[5commander3]

Sounds great. Thanks for your time.

[Flashback]

Her ya go with some pictures. I tried to show the bad as best I could. The topside is nice and straight, with one very small dimple. Where the latch fits is good. The underside is as shown. A new tab for a bolt in the middle needs to be welded on and there is a small place in center needs repair. A place where it is recessed for the bumper brackets needs a little attention. The rest of the underside is as shown. Like I said before if you can't find a better one and want this one, it is available. The one that goes on my 53 is shown for reference. Somebody speak up on what it's worth. I want to be fair.









Here's one of it on the car:



And, here is one I couldn't resist, LOL. This is my Grandson (T O) and me taking it off the car.

[5commander3]

Flashback - I'm interested in the part. Let me know what you want for it.
Thanks

[Flashback]

Hey Donnie, The price is $50.00 plus shipping. If you want it I will try to put it in a tube and get shipping cost back to you. Thanks, Tex

[5commander3]

Tex,
Yes I want the part. How do you want to handle payment?

[Flashback]

I will see if I can get it packaged and get a shipping cost. I will P M.

[5commander3]

Flashback,
Have you had a chance to get any info yet?
Thanks, Donnie