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1956 Ford Mainline: A Testament to Post-War American Ingenuity

The 1956 Ford Mainline stands as a shining example of the optimism and forward-thinking that defined the post-war era in America. Born from the industrious halls of the Ford Motor Company, this vehicle emerged as an affordable yet stylish choice for the burgeoning middle class. Its historical significance is rooted not only in its popularity but also in its role as a bridge between the utilitarian designs of the early 1950s and the flamboyant excesses that would characterize the late '50s and '60s. A unique fact about this model is its cameo in the classic film "Rebel Without a Cause," forever associating it with the rebellious spirit of the 1950s youth culture.

Design and Innovation

The 1956 Ford Mainline's exterior styling was a harmonious blend of function and flair, with clean lines and modest chrome accents that exuded understated elegance. The interior was a sanctuary of simplicity, with durable materials designed to withstand the rigors of daily use without sacrificing comfort. Technologically, it boasted advancements such as an optional Fordomatic automatic transmission and a modern 12-volt electrical system. Color options ranged from classic Raven Black to vibrant Mandarin Orange, with Colonial White being a particularly popular choice. Body styles included sedans, coupes, and utility sedans, but it was the two-door sedan that captured hearts with its balanced proportions and sporty demeanor.

Historical Significance

The 1956 Ford Mainline didn't just transport people; it transported ideas. It helped democratize car ownership and set new standards for what an entry-level vehicle could be. Its design language influenced future models and solidified Ford's reputation for producing reliable family cars that didn't skimp on style.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the Mainline offered a range of engines, including a robust inline-six or a more powerful V8. With a top speed that could reach up to 90 mph and a 0-60 time that varied depending on engine choice, it delivered respectable performance for its day. The ride was smooth, handling bumps with grace while providing drivers with direct feedback through its large steering wheel. The engine's purr was music to any car enthusiast's ears—a reminder of simpler mechanical times.

Ownership Experience

The 1956 Ford Mainline served many roles—from a dependable daily driver to an attention-grabbing show car or even an entry-level racer on local tracks. Maintenance was straightforward, making it an ideal project car for vintage enthusiasts. Its reliability was one of its strongest selling points, ensuring that many Mainlines are still on the road today.

Fun Facts

A lesser-known fact about the Mainline is that it shared many mechanical components with other Ford models, making parts relatively easy to find even today. While not known for breaking speed records, it held its own in sales figures, becoming a common sight on American roads. Criticisms were few but included desires for more luxurious features—a demand that would be met by Ford's higher-end models.

Collector's Information

Today, collectors find value in the 1956 Ford Mainline not just for its aesthetics but also for its representation of an era. While production numbers were high—with estimates well into the hundreds of thousands—pristine examples can fetch anywhere from $10,000 to $30,000 depending on condition and originality. The market has shown appreciation for well-maintained Mainlines over time.

Conclusion

The 1956 Ford Mainline is more than just metal, glass, and rubber; it's a cultural icon that encapsulates the spirit of mid-century America. It stands as a testament to innovation during an age when cars were about freedom and possibility—a narrative that continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts around the world.

1956 Ford Mainline Spring and Shackle Bushing. 7/8" bottom O.D-BN 19Spring and Shackle Bushing. 7/8" bottom O.D. X 1-1/4" high, with 1/2" I.D. Each

1956 Ford Mainline Stabilizer Bar Bushing. 1-1/2" high, 3/4" I.D. Pair-BN 27Stabilizer Bar Bushing. 1-1/2" high, 3/4" I.D. Pair

1956 Ford Mainline Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D-BN 6Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D. X 1/2" high, with 3/8" I.D. Each

1956 Ford Mainline Clutch and Brake Pedal Pads-CB 90-BClutch and Brake Pedal Pads. For models with standard transmission. 2-1/4" wide X 3-1/4" long. Pair

1956 Ford Mainline Brake Pedal Pad. Correct reproduction of a difficult part-CB 90-CBrake Pedal Pad. Correct reproduction of a difficult part. 2-1/2" wide X 4-1/2" long. Each

1956 Ford Mainline Hood Bumper. Each-HF 8Hood Bumper. Each

1956 Ford Mainline Roof Rail Seals Two 6' pieces. No steel insert. May fit some models Pair-LP 110-BRoof Rail Seals. No steel insert. May fit some models. Two 6' pieces. Pair

1956 Ford Mainline Door Handle Pads. 2-1/2" long & 1-1/2" long. Set R&L-MP 716Door Handle Pads. 2-1/2" long & 1-1/2" long. Set R&L

1956 Ford Mainline Mirror Pad. 1-1/2" wide X 7-5/8" long. Each-MP 996-EMirror Pad. 1-1/2" wide X 7-5/8" long. Each

1956 Ford Mainline Mirror-on-door mounting pad. Fits models with 6-3/8 in-MP 996-RMirror-on-door mounting pad. Fits models with 6-3/8 in. long mirror base. 1-1/2 in. W x 6-5/8 in. L. Each.

1956 Ford Mainline Clutch and Brake Arm Bumpers. Top quality reproduction-RP 31-KClutch and Brake Arm Bumpers. Top quality reproduction. Pair

1956 Ford Mainline Spark Plug Wire Retainer Grommet. Each-SM 30-BSpark Plug Wire Retainer Grommet. Each

1956 Ford Mainline Trunk Drain Grommets. Set of four-SMK 64-ITrunk Drain Grommets. Set of four

1956 Ford Mainline Trunk Seal. Each-TK 42-18Trunk Seal. Each

1956 Ford Mainline Rear roll-up Seal. Two 18" sections sliced into metal track-VS 4Rear roll-up Seal. Two 18" sections sliced into metal track. this foot with no steel insert. Pair

1956 Ford Mainline Vertical Seals for Vent Window. Each piece is 17" long-VS 6Vertical Seals for Vent Window. Each piece is 17" long. Pair

1956 Ford Mainline Vertical Seal for Vent Window. Sold by the foot.-VS 6/FTVertical Seal for Vent Window. Sold by the foot.

1956 Ford Mainline Flexible window sweeper. Made with stainless steel bead-WC 7-96Flexible window sweeper. Made with stainless steel bead. 96 in. long. Each. NOTE: $20 special shipping charge applies for domestic orders. Call or email for overseas shipping costs. Part can be sectioned in two or three equal lengths to reduce overseas shipping costs.