1917 Hudson Series J

During the 1910s, the Hudson marque teeter-tottered back and forth on offering single or two models. A six-cylinder model joined the four-cylinder line in 1914, and a year later only the larger engine remained. The 1916 lineup included the Model Six-40 Series G and the Super Six Series H. For 1917, Hudson returned to the single model lineup with its Super Six Series J. Power was from an L-head inline six-cylinder engine displacing 288.6 cubic inches and developed 29.4 (rated) hp (76 actual hp). It used a four-bearing crankshaft with eight counterweights, a higher 5.0:1 compression ratio, and larger valves than before. It was backed by a three-speed manual transmission, and braking was by rear-wheel mechanical drums. The suspension was comprised of a semi-floating rear axle with semi-elliptical leaf springs.

Thirteen body styles were offered in 4-, 5-, and 7-passenger configurations in both open and closed forms, all resting on a 125.5-inch wheelbase. Prices ranged from $1,750 to over $3,100. The Opera Phaetons used a different upholstery pattern, and the limousine body styles had a straight, instead of curved, front door along with squared-off window edges. The built-in radiator shutters ran horizontally, and there was a Boyce moto-meter radiator cap. Options included wire wheels, a spare tire, and bumpers.

The Super Six holds the distinction of being the first engine produced entirely in-house by Hudson. Previously, Hudson had purchased its engines from Continental.

by Daniel Vaughan | Aug 2020