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Ron’s Auto Salvage is a gold mine for automotive enthusiasts and restorers in Allison, Iowa. Located in the heart of the Midwest, this salvage yard has become famous for its vast collection of vintage and rare car parts. Here, we look at 15 unique discoveries that make Ron’s Auto Salvage a must-visit for anyone passionate about old cars.

1969 Dodge Charger

One of the most exciting finds at Ron’s is a 1969 Dodge Charger. Although weathered and covered in rust, this particular Charger retains its iconic shape and many original parts. The body is mainly intact, making it an excellent candidate for restoration. Enthusiasts often seek out the ’69 Charger for its powerful 440 Magnum V8 engine.

1957 Chevrolet Bel Air

Ron’s Auto Salvage has a nearly complete 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air, an iconic vehicle known for its distinctive tail fins and chrome detailing. Bel Airs are notable for their stylish design and the V8 engine options they offer. The one at Ron’s still has its initial dashboard and much of its interior trim. Finding a Bel Air in such a state is rare and showcases the diverse inventory at Ron’s.

Ford Model A Parts

The yard has numerous parts for the Ford Model A, an iconic vehicle from the late 1920s and early 30s. The salvage yard has fenders, hoods, frames, and engine blocks from these early automobiles. As one of Ford’s first major successes, parts for the Model A vehicles are often hard to come by. Restorers value these components highly, as they allow for the preservation of automotive history.

Vintage License Plates Collection

An unexpected but delightful find at Ron’s Auto Salvage is the extensive collection of old license plates from different states and decades. These plates are historical artifacts dating back to the early 20th century. The wide range showcases the evolution of plate design and vehicle registration history. Collectors often seek them out to complete period-correct restorations or to add to their memorabilia collections.

Classic Car Emblems and Badges

The yard features many old car emblems and badges, each telling a story of the vehicle it once adorned. Emblems range from the luxurious Cadillac crests to the rugged Jeep badges and represent various car brands and eras. These pieces are highly valued for their authenticity and charm and are often used to replace missing or damaged originals.

Original Hubcaps from the 1950s and 1960s

Original hubcaps from the 1950s and 1960s, many in surprisingly good condition, are scattered throughout Ron’s Auto Salvage. Coming from different models, including Ford, Chevrolet, and Plymouth, each hubcap defines the era’s aesthetics. Their chrome finishes and intricate details are hard to find in modern replicas. These hubcaps are essential for anyone looking to restore an old car to its former state.

1940s Ford Pickup Truck

A rusted yet solid 1940s Ford pickup truck reveals the durability of vintage American engineering. Despite its weathered appearance, the truck’s frame and body panels are remarkably intact. Its sturdy design and robust engine options are also suitable for restoration. What’s left of it reminds us of the design philosophy of the 1940s American auto industry.

Chevrolet Camaro Parts

For fans of the Chevrolet Camaro, Ron’s offers many parts spanning various model years. Several parts are crucial for maintaining or restoring classic muscle cars, as they allow for period-correct restorations. Thus, the yard is a repository for Camaro enthusiasts, from first-generation fenders and hoods to third-generation interiors and engine components.

Vintage Signage and Advertising Materials

Interspersed among the car parts are retro signage and advertising materials. Among them are old dealership signs, gas station advertisements, and promotional posters from various decades. They provide a fascinating look at automobile marketing from the past and are often sought after by collectors who wish to add an authentic touch to their garages.

Classic Car Interiors

Ron’s Auto Salvage has an impressive collection of vintage car interiors, including seats, dashboards, and steering wheels. The collection also includes Cadillacs’ luxurious leather seats and Mustangs’ sporty bucket seats, each showcasing the design trends of their eras. These discoveries are particularly valuable because finding well-preserved interiors is rare.

Engines from Various Eras

A highlight of the yard is the variety of engines from different eras, from straight-sixes to big-block V8s. Some engine parts, like the blocks, heads, and manifolds, are still salvageable and can be rebuilt or used as spares. Since no restoration project is complete without an engine, finding an original power source can make all the difference.

Vintage Tools and Equipment

At Ron’s, visitors can find antique tools and equipment used to maintain classic vehicles. Old wrenches, jacks, and diagnostic equipment, among others, are useful and serve as a window into the past. Though not in working condition, these tools reflect the craftsmanship and mechanical ingenuity of earlier generations.

Project Cars

A few project cars that provide a solid foundation for restoration were also found in the garage. Whether a partially stripped muscle car or a weathered sedan, these project vehicles offer a unique opportunity for enthusiasts to apply their skills and creativity in turning a neglected vehicle into a restored masterpiece.

Rare Automotive Literature

Scattered throughout the yard are rare pieces of automotive literature, including manuals, brochures, and service guides. Such documents are invaluable for people seeking to restore automobiles accurately as they provide detailed information on original specifications and assembly instructions.

Automotive Accessories

Finally, Ron’s Auto Salvage also has a collection of vintage accessories, from mirrors to radios. Restoration projects need these accessories to add the finishing touch to ensure the car looks as it did in its heyday. Items like old rearview mirrors, hoods, ornaments, and even retro air fresheners provide that last bit of authenticity.