NSRA Finds Hidden Jewel In Springfield, Missouri: A 1937 Suburban

Richard and Sue Johnson’s 1937 Suburban.

The longest continuously built nameplate in production is the Chevrolet Suburban, which started production in 1935. Over the next 80 years, the Suburban has also been traditionally one of GM’s most profitable vehicles as well. Quite a feat for the full-size, extended-length SUV.

While there have been several auto makers that used the Suburban name for utility vehicles, these include DeSoto, Dodge, Plymouth, Studebaker, Nash along with the more successful Chevrolet and GMC nameplates.

Chevrolet’s lineup prior to 1935 included a utility vehicle that was essentially a station wagon body mounted on a half-ton pickup truck frame. These were used for Government paramilitary organizations like the National Guard and the Conservation Corps.

Using the front body and frame of the 1935 half-ton pickup, Chevrolet launched their “Carryall-Suburban” wagons in 1935. Instead of an open bed, the Suburban sported an all-metal wagon body that was similar to the very popular “woodie” wagons of the day.

Hard to believe this was a home-built project.

The first generation Suburbans offered seating for eight passengers, with three in the front row, two in the middle row and three in the back row. The rear also served as a cargo area. GMC followed suit in 1937 with their own Carryall-Suburban. Since that time there have been 12 generations of the beloved SUV.

It is rare to spot an early first generation Suburban, but our friends at the National Street Rod Association (NSRA) had the pleasure of having a restomodded 1937 Suburban enter their Springfield, Missouri, event at the end of May. Entry #447 was Richard and Sue Johnson’s 1937 Suburban from Sapulpa, Oklahoma.

This unique custom featured the original frame with a Mustang II front suspension. An SBC 350 with TH350 transmission and a Ford 8-inch rearend. Yes, you read that correctly – a Ford 8-inch rearend! Much like the more popular 9-inch rearends, Ford manufactured a three piece, with a removable 8-inch center section (third member) that has similar strength and performance as it’s bigger brother but is a better economic alternative.

This build includes Foose 17-inch wheels, suicide doors with shaved door handles, DVD and VCR players, with front and rear air conditioning. This Flame Red and Satellite Silver beauty was home built and currently has logged 51,000 miles.

We’re happy to see the owner’s actually drive and enjoy this legitimate piece of history. Thanks to our friends at the NSRA for the information and photos.