Arild’s 1932 Dearborn Deuce: A Masterpiece of Engineering and Design
Story by Peter S Linnet, Wikipedia and GTP
Arild B. Sand’s 1932 Dearborn Deuce is not just a car; it’s a labor of love, a testament to craftsmanship, and a nod to the enduring legacy of the 1932 Ford. After five years of meticulous work, Arild has created a stunning hot rod that blends classic charm with modern performance, a true example of automotive artistry.
The Story Behind the Build
Arild’s passion for cars led him to undertake this ambitious project in 2019. With no prior experience in building a car of this caliber, he tackled every challenge himself. “I did it all,” he says with pride. Every part of the build, from the custom bodywork to the engine, was meticulously crafted by Arild himself. This self-built project speaks volumes about his dedication and skills, resulting in a car that’s both a visual masterpiece and a powerful machine.
Exterior: A Timeless Look with Modern Twists
The 1932 Ford, often referred to as the “Deuce,” has long been a symbol of classic automotive design. Arild’s Deuce retains much of the original charm but is enhanced with custom touches. The body was worked on by Roald Julijussen, while the paint job, which is a rich brown color, was done by Alfa Lakkering, led by Kenneth McDougall. The choice of brown was purely aesthetic—Arild felt it looked beautiful and complemented the car’s style perfectly.
The front end of the car features a classic 1932 Ford grille designed by Dan Fink, paired with a custom-made 32 Ford rear bumper. The headlights are from a 1931 Ford, adding to the classic feel. This Deuce’s design is timeless, combining the elegance of the ’30s with an air of modern sophistication.
Engine: GM LS-2, Power and Precision
Under the hood, Arild installed a GM LS-2 crate engine, a 6.0L V8 from 2006. Known for its reliability and performance, this engine produces an estimated 400 horsepower, making it not just a showpiece but a true-performance vehicle. The intake manifold is an 8-stack from Redux Racing, while the exhaust system is stainless steel, paired with MagnaFlow mufflers for a deep, powerful sound. The engine is paired with a GM 4L65E transmission and uses a Kugel Components rear axle with a 3.50:1 drive ratio.
Arild’s commitment to quality is evident in every aspect of the drivetrain. The performance is balanced with reliable and sophisticated components, such as the Hooker manifold headers and GM ignition.
Interior: Comfort Meets Performance
Inside, Arild’s Deuce is as thoughtfully designed as the exterior. The seats are from Wise Guys, upholstered in high-quality Spinneybeck leather, offering both comfort and style. The dashboard is a custom Dearborn Deuce design, with classic instruments that maintain the vintage feel but offer modern readability and performance metrics. A billet steering wheel and Sony radio complete the interior, ensuring that every drive is both enjoyable and thrilling.
Suspension and Chassis: Handling and Stability
The car’s suspension is as high-performance as the engine. The front and rear shocks are from Bilstein, known for their precision engineering. The Kugel Components front suspension and spindles provide excellent handling and stability. The limited-slip rear axle further enhances the driving experience, ensuring that every corner is tackled with confidence.
The 1932 Dearborn Deuce rides on Michelin 6×15 front tires and Hankook 9.5×17 rear tires, providing the perfect blend of grip and comfort.
A Unique Hot Rod for the Ages
What makes Arild’s 1932 Dearborn Deuce so special is not just its design or performance; it’s the story behind it. Arild built this car from the ground up, and every component reflects his personal touch, skill, and passion for the craft. He didn’t buy this car; he created it, and in doing so, he has produced something truly exceptional.
For Arild, this is more than just a car. It’s the culmination of years of passion, learning, and hard work. It’s a nod to automotive history while incorporating cutting-edge technology, creating a perfect blend of the past and the future.
About the Car Owner:
Arild B. Sand resides in Holmestrand, Norway, and is the proud owner of this remarkable 1932 Dearborn Deuce. He can be reached via email at post@sentrumbil.com.
This custom creation is a tribute to the classic 1932 Ford, and it’s clear that Arild’s Deuce will continue to turn heads and inspire future generations of car enthusiasts.