Checker
This is my 1970 Checker. It's the A11 Taxicab model, not the upscale Marathon. The differences are subtle, the main one being that most A11s were put into taxi service, and didn't survive.
This car is equipped with the standard Chevrolet 250 six engine, and the Borg Warner Model 11 automatic transmission. It has power steering, and power drum brakes. The bumper guards, full wheel covers, chrome grill, and side trim probably were optional extras, along with the Checker branded Motorola AM pushbutton radio. This car was built in October 1969, and is titled as a 1969 model, but has a 1970 serial number, engine, steering wheel, etc. Special Checker part numbers and date codes are stamped on things like the engine, transmission, alternator, etc. Almost all the parts are original, as far as I can tell, including the starter, alternator, carburetor, distributor, transmission, and engine.
The car has only 89,000 miles, and drives pretty well. The parts used by Checker Motors Corporation to build the car are diverse. The engine is Chevrolet. Transmission is Borg Warner. Rear end is Spicer 44. Front suspension is mid 50s Ford car. Steering gear is Saginaw, column is Chevrolet. Brakes are Pontiac full size car with five inch bolt circle. I think the parking light lenses are for an early 1950s International truck, although later cars used lenses for the 59 Chevy pickup. The door latches appear to be for International trucks, also. The body and frame are Checker designed and built. Front and rear bumper interchange, and the outer front and rear fenders unbolt for ease of service.
My plans for the car include a LeMons Rally in winter/spring 2025, and then a transformation into a Drag n Drive car over the summer, and possibly competing in Drag Week 2025. I have purchased a Chevy LQ4 engine, and have plans to install it with a TH400 transmission and a turbocharger, to hopefully get the car into the 10s in the quarter mile.
