1950's JC Higgins Tank Bicycle - Dating and Restoration?

[thedude1280]

Hello, I came into this JC Higgins bike and potentially going to restore but want to see if anyone has more information on it? It's obviously rusty, but little corrosion and still have both headlights and back lights. Note the number and Bendix logo as well. Any info on a more exact time this was in production? Also, any restoration recommendations? Thanks!

 

[Rivnut]

Most JC Higins were built by Murray but your bike doesn't have the Murray numbering system. But, it does have an M in the number. If all of Sears bikes have the same date codes, an M would date yours as a 47. I'm making this assumption based on one of my bikes which is a 50 and has a P as a date code. I just counted backwards

 

[mrg]

48 Westfield/Columbia built by the ser.# & 48 JCH paint scheme & 1 yr only rack, looks pretty complete, start with a really good scrubbing ( maybe even 0000 steel wool & WD 40 on the paint ), grease, tires and ride, then decide if you want to go further. catalog pic is the 48 Murry built version. Good luck

 

[thedude1280]

Thanks for the info! Where is it that you find these catalog listings? Also, the seat will need some pretty major repairs or replacement - any suggestions on where to go for that?

 

[mrg]

As said the one in the catalog is Murray built, seems like Westfield & Monark mostly supplied Sears more on the East Coast and Murray the Midwest and West but supply and demand played a part to so who knows what warehouse got what. As far as the seat, post a good pic & description In the WANTED section, girls seats are available at a good price or just have someone do a quick recover. Good luck and enjoy the ride, oh there’s a book available that has Sears & Montgomery Wards bike catalog pic from the 30’s - 60’s

 

[OZ1972]

Really great looking bike , have fun with it !!!!