Featured Trucks
Monday, April 29th, 2013
Owner: Bill Knoernschild
Look what you can do with an early COE cab and a lot of imagination (an extra supply of money also helps). This cab sits on a 1984 Chevrolet 1 ton truck chassis, perfectly carries a 1946 ¾ ton pickup bed, and uses 1940-46 rear pickup fenders. What a nice combination. We might call it a COE pickup!
The owner and creator is Bill Knoernschild of Cutchogue, New York on Long Island. This retired enthusiast has done several other specialty vehicles but this is so far, his high point. Bill does almost all his own restoration work and his skills and workmanship are superb.
This specialty truck is so unusual that even the non-vehicle enthusiasts have to stop and take notice. Bill’s COE invented the term “Traffic Stopper”.
He found this tired truck several years ago in a back field on Long Island. It had been at one time a tow truck. Due to the COE’s rarity he decided to salvage the cab and save it from a certain death (because of a COE’s weight, most went to the crusher). Bill decided it would be like no one had ever seen. It became a 2 year project!
A 1984 Chevy chassis was totally rebuilt including V-8 engine, suspension, automatic transmission, and so many modifications to make it fit the almost 60 year old cab.
The “new” truck has all the power options including air conditioning. It even operates with a computer under the dash just like a late model vehicle. Modern interior, updated dash gauges, and six new 16” very special chrome wheels add to the package.
Just one example of the intense labor is the front fenders. The originals were a total loss and replacements seemed to be unobtainable. Therefore, fiberglass pickup fenders were used but required a special skill to trim the correct 6 inches and reform to create COE fenders. Now that takes talent!
Would you believe: The second time out with his restored COE Bill hit a deer near his home! It was back to the home garage for much more work on at least one fender! Therefore, Bill says by this time, the money spent on just body work, paint preparation, and two stage paint had reached $28,000.
Looking over all the receipts for the two year build is now close to six figures! Wow, if Bill ever gets hit by another vehicle, their insurance company will really be crying the blues.
You can contact Bill at: Plumbcrazyinc@gmail.com.
Note: The letters COE are the abbreviation for Cab-Over-Engine. This is what early truck manufacturers called their units that had the cab over the engine. Without the nose and engine in front of the truck it had a much shorter wheel base. Thus, it could make short turns in tight spots such as older neighborhoods with narrow streets and still carry the same amount of freight. Yes, with the engine below, the cab interior was much warmer in the summer. For the driver it was what he had to tolerate to own a COE.
Posted in 1940's, Featured Trucks | No Comments »
Monday, April 1st, 2013
Owner: Clyde McKaba
Another rare truck for our Feature Truck of the Month series!! A 1961 GMC is unusual in any body style but this style is now almost non-existent. Imagine this; a 1961 GMC Suburban with factory 4×4! It has the original 305 V-6 engine with stand alone transfer case (not attached to the 4 speed transmission).
The owner is Clyde McKaba of Abbeville, South Carolina. His love for GMC’s began in the mid 1970’s while working six years for a dealership in his home state of Massachusetts.
Clyde found his 1961 Suburban about two years ago in Spokane, Washington and had it transported to South Carolina. He has papers on the Suburban’s history including the past three owners and most repairs. Very unusual for all prior owners to have kept all their records. It is said GMC sold about 200 Suburban’s with 4 wheel drive during the early 1960’s. Clyde’s is one of the only survivors due to hard use, abuse, accidents, and the results of rust from damp air in most states.
It was purchased new in Springfield, Missouri with a list price of $4,146.75. Almost a $1,000.00 above the base price of the Chevrolet Suburban. See attached window stickers and invoice. Records show it was then licensed in Colorado, a popular state for 4 wheel drive trucks. As Suburban’s are usually people haulers, this unit was probably used by a family as a driver. The lack of air conditioning was no problem in the high country of Colorado!
Original Invoice |
Original Window Sticker |
The next owner kept the Suburban in eastern high desert country near Spokane, Washington. Once again it was kept by the owner in dry climate all year.
Clyde says in 2009 it had its one repaint and was kept the factory color; Mediterranean Blue and White. The upholstery now has cloth material on the three original seats. All 4 rear quarter windows slide open. It is difficult to believe the mileage is only 115,000 (about 2,200 miles per year) and records show no major mechanical repairs. The Suburban gets 10 to 12 miles per gallon, which is about usual for these large V-6 engines. No rust so no replacement body panels have been used. Thanks to Clyde, it is being kept in excellent condition and remains a part of history. An excellent example of how they were in 1961.
Clyde McKaba is also a recent proud owner of a near perfect 1966 GMC ½ ton with 351 V-6 engine. This was our company’s first feature truck July 2000. Clyde can be contacted at: cmckaba@centurylink.net.
Posted in 1960's, Featured Trucks | No Comments »
Monday, February 25th, 2013
Year/Make 1939 Chevrolet
Owner: John H. Sheally II
What do you tow your Morgan with ?
Year/Make 1939 Chevrolet
Owner: John H. Sheally II
What do you tow your Morgan with ?
Story and Photographs by John H. Sheally II
There is something special about driving a 74-year-old truck, built with purpose and pride four years before I was born.
My 1939 Chevrolet, grain bed, ton and a half tow truck is what I call a ‘REAL TRUCK’. This baby was built to work and be tough. Quality was important to vehicle builders of the pre-war era – trucks of that period were built to be strong and simple. There are no plastic parts or paper fender wells held in place with paper clips in this machine. Plenty of nickel was used in the steel bodies thus they did not rust out. As a result trucks like mine can be rebuilt, restored or refurbished very easily. Mine was a one owner (same family its whole pre life) from an estate sale in Charlottesville, Virginia. It was an ugly faded green (original color) and had been worked hard all its years on that farm, It was an 80% restoration for me, starting with bodywork, paint, new interior, engine work as well as brakes on all four corners and enclosed drive-shaft joints.
My ‘Heavy Chevy’ has been on the road since that restoration three decades ago , I have do some 10,000 miles plus a year with it, towing my competition cars to competition events annually as well as meets and concours. I have competed with several different Morgan models over these years as well as a Cobra, Saab Sonnet and two formula cars – all towed with this dependable machine for the last 68,883 miles.
I often enter the truck in shows and it wins along with the Morgan being shown for a double header at the show or concours.
The truck is perfect for the job it does. Most of these big Chevy trucks were built as stake body or flat bed models but mine was one of the rare grain bed models, big pickup bed trucks with the beds built to haul grain without spillage. As a result I can carry my tools, spares, tires, air bottles, jacks, generator, etc. The addition of a Tonneau makes it all come together for a nice competition tow package.
The engine was a ‘stove bolt’ straight 216 cubic inch six cylinder referred to as a Thriftmaster Six. When I rebuilt it two years ago I realized that I’d like to have a few more ponies coming out of it because when I hit the mountains with it I had to really work the four speed gearbox to pull up the steeper slopes. So I rebuilt it to a 261 stroker which amounted to a larger bore and. longer rods, I drilled a couple of extra weep holes in the head for more cooling. The final package ended up as a Jobmaster Six with 24 more horses on the bottom end resulting in great torque and I can forget the gearbox when I hit the mountain ranges.
The Chevy is sprung stiff and required no special springs or helper shocks as it was built to handle heavy loads when built by the General Motors factory. I put Carbon-Kevlar brake shoes on four corners and it stops when I ask it too very well.
I cruise at 55 mph all day long and can hit 75 on a downhill run. It’s a great truck with great working ability and a smooth ride “when loaded”.
This black beauty is also a movie star, making her film debut in the Steven King feature ‘Hearts in Atlantis’, which is produced by Dreamworks.
You can email John at: Morgandude@Verizon.net
Posted in 1930's, Featured Trucks | No Comments »
Friday, February 1st, 2013
Owner: Paul Bremer
It’s 1965 and 10 year old Paul Bremer often rides his bicycle near his home in Seward, Nebraska. One thing he always admires is the neighbor’s 1961 Deluxe Chevrolet ½ ton. They had bought it new and wanted the best. Few 1961 Chevrolet trucks were equipped with this amount of trim and it always caught Paul’s attention. He often watched them cleaning and waxing this pickup by its garage.
Over 20 years later in 1985, Paul received a call from the local Chrysler dealer. The owner had heard of his love for older vehicles in this medium size Nebraska town. They had just received a 1961 Chevy truck as a trade on a new car that week. They had no interest in keeping a 27 year old pickup in 1988 even if it had only 30,000 miles on the odometer.
What a surprise! When Paul arrived at this Chrysler dealership, he quickly realized this was the pickup that had once belonged to his neighbors, the truck he had admired during his bicycle years. In less than an hour he was the new owner.
His project was to bring it back to its glory days. Some repairs were needed after many years and with great enthusiasm Paul started the transformation. During the very detailed clean-up he removed two seat cover layers to expose the undamaged deluxe seat. Shag carpet (popular in 1960 homes) had protected the factory rubber floor mat. New original Chevy hub caps were finally found and replaced the aftermarket chrome wire wheel covers. The bumpers were re-chromed.
To remove chips and related paint damage the lower half of the body was sanded and painted the correct Pure White. The tailgate and wheels were refreshed with the original color Tampico Turquoise. The correct white wall tires for 1961 were installed.
All the rare deluxe trim is mint condition. Accessories included the fresh air heater. At some point in time the original radio was replaced. A NOS radio will be re-installed. The original 283 V8, column shift 3 speed transmission, suspension and 8 foot bed are unchanged.
Paul occasionally drives his special truck but only in nice weather. In fact, during the last 25 years it has only been on the road 10,000 miles. This was mostly to special interest auto and truck shows in surrounding states.
A special comment on Paul’s love for older vehicles: In past years he has accumulated about 6 mint condition trucks with extremely low mileage. Several additional vehicles that have been driven further are also part of his collection. He also gradually has collected large quantities of very special new and used original parts. Most will never be reproduced. Paul knows what to look for!
Where does he keep all these special trucks and parts? A closed Chevrolet dealership in a small town near Paul’s home came up for sale. Yes, you’re correct, he bought it! All his toys and parts can stay inside out of view.
You can contact Paul at: paulspickupparts@windstream.net.
Posted in 1960's, Featured Trucks | No Comments »
Thursday, January 3rd, 2013
Owner: Kevin Koch
There may be no other survivors! If this is the only 1934 Chevrolet Canopy Express remaining, we are all fortunate to see it in this pristine condition. It is owned by Kevin Koch of Morgantown, PA. His Grandfather, Jack Crane of Willow Grove, PA bought this little 1934 in 1974 with the hope of someday giving it a major restoration. As money and replacement parts were very limited, the project remained a dream. Later, un-restored, it was passed down to his son, George. Kevin later found several drawings and notes his Grandfather had made many years ago showing how he had hoped to restore it and what it could look like. He researched the major vehicle restorers at the time and picked Al Pruitt in Glen Rock, PA to do a total rebuild. Six years later, it was a new truck and just like the drawings.
As a tribute to his grandfather, it now appears as it left the Chevrolet dealership over 78 years ago! It is on display in the lobby of Kevin’s company, H and K Equipment Company of Coraopolis, PA. A new larger building was recently constructed around the showroom that is for displaying his grandfather’s one of a kind 1934 Canopy Express.
Why a Canopy Express?
In the days of the one car family (or no car in the family) the Canopy Express was an extension of the retail stores. Products for sale could be brought to the neighborhoods. The lady of the house could even call the store requesting a delivery. The roll-up canvas sides of the Canopy Express were a natural for displaying groceries and related home merchandise in housing developments while protecting it from bad weather. They were equipped with a 4 speed transmission that gave them a very slow speed in first gear while moving through neighborhoods.
In the beginning of the 20th Century more people were moving from multi-story apartment living into stand alone new homes. This was the beginning of urban spread and stores were no longer just a short walk away.
It was difficult for a housewife with a few small children to walk to a distant grocery store, especially in bad weather. The Canopy Express was just what the store owner needed to reach his customers. Often a bell was attached to the cab near the driver’s door. This told the housewife that the Canopy Express was coming. The grocery shopping for the family’s evening meal could be done beside the city street.
Neighborhood deliveries were very important to the many stores that served new neighborhoods with individual homes. A Canopy Express was the vehicle of choice among grocers for over 30 years. The end of this type delivering began in the mid 1950’s. With more disposable income in the USA, a second family car became available. Larger supermarkets in shopping areas now successfully encouraged people to shop away from home.
Posted in 1930's, Featured Trucks | No Comments »
Wednesday, December 5th, 2012
Owner: Butch Voigt
This month’s Feature Truck certainly follows our trend of finding the more unusual among early Chevrolet and GMC vehicles. This may be the only survivor of a 1951 Chevrolet 1 ton with a 16 passenger body. Chevrolet provided the 131” wheel base chassis with fenders, hood, grille, etc. See photo. The passenger part was made by the Carpenter Body Works in Mitchell, Indiana. The bus is so narrow it has the usual row of double seats on one side but has a row of single seats on the other side, thus the isle is not centered. Any school district that asked for a smaller bus would probably have to use a Suburban.
Much of its life was spent hauling rural school children near Mountain Lake, a small town in Southern Minnesota. Many years later when the bus was retired, the school district used it 20 more years for hauling freight. With the seats removed it became the schools maintenance department pickup truck!
The next owner surely saved it from the crusher! Bruce Goldstrand of Stillwater, MN traveled this area occasionally as an outside salesman. As an old car collector, when he passed a salvage yard near Mountain Lake he always noticed this little bus sitting among the other discarded vehicles. After a year of seeing it every few months it began to grow on him and he would watch for it on each trip. One nice day, he could not resist a stop at the yard for a closer view of the bus. Bruce knew there was space for it in one of his storage buildings but a bus certainly did not fit the image of the other unique cars in his collection. He looked close at this little bus and was surprised at how complete it was. Yes, all but two seats were missing (it had later been the school district’s truck), there was broken glass, and badly rusted lower body panels but most of the original parts remained.
Bruce fell in love with the bus; however there was a big problem! The salvage yard owner said he had received a down payment on it the week before, so Bruce’s hope for ownership was over. He drove home disappointed but gave the yard owner his phone number. Surprise! Two weeks later the salvage yard owner called. The person had changed his mind and Bruce could own the bus.
He quickly hauled his little bus home and made a space for it in a storage building.
The high hopes of having fun driving the little bus to antique car activities were soon lost. Bruce discovered his antique vehicle insurance company for his other older special interest cars would not insure a bus. It was suspected that the company was concerned about many passengers in one vehicle. Probably some had been used as a “party bus”. Therefore, except for driving on the back lot it sat in his garage for 19 years.
It was then in 2011 Bruce decided he would not restore it. The bus needed a new home to give him more garage space. It was hauled to a local farm show for display with a sign on the window. An employee of a distant school bus collector saw it and made a phone call. The bus collector-restorer was immediately interested. After negotiations on price, the bus had a new owner the next week.
This owner, Butch Voigt was a natural for owning this 60 year old bus. Butch is a second generation owner of his family business since it was founded in 1947 as the Voigt Bus Service near St. Cloud, MN. He has three of his children active in the business and two grandchildren that work part time that will someday be owners of the company. Their bus company currently owns 75 newer school buses, 40 coaches and 10 vans that serve 4 school districts in the surrounding area.
His love for older school buses had immediately pulled him to Bruce’s tired little bus. He has 6 other early school buses of different makes that he has totally restored including the 1948 Flexible Coach in the first photo. This small 16 passenger would be just right for hauling his grandchildren to local sporting events and to the ice cream shop in the summer.
All was carefully rebuilt and reassembled like an oversize model kit. Nothing was over looked. His goal was to have it completed and drive it 70 miles to pickup his two grandsons on their last day of school. It ran great (but slow) during the long distance to the school and was a real eye catcher to those along the way! The sight of their grandfather after school waiting for these two children in his new 1951 bus should have been on film!
It is so small compared to regular buses today, yet much larger that an early Suburban. Butch became very excited about his new little bus as it was nothing like he had ever owned. Butch had his grandchildren in mind but also knew it would be just right for the many small summer parades in the local area, easy to park and easy to drive.
During the restoration the body was lifted from the frame rails and restored in his company bus barn. Butch personally restored the chassis at his home. He was surprised that some of the replaced rusty metal panels of this Carpenter body were put together at the factory with lead securing the seams (an old method) rather than welding. Butch broke all his records and did a ground up restoration in about 6 months.
The bus has one oversize heater beside the driver and none in the back. We know the students wanted to sit up front on cold Minnesota winter mornings. It still has its original 216 six cylinder engine and 4 speed transmission. The low geared rear differential makes it all possible for its little engine.
Notice the orange color on the bus body. Butch states that in 1969 Federal regulations required all school buses to be the same yellow as today. However, prior to this only Minnesota and Alaska used orange as their school bus color. It was the Carpenter Bus Company that painted the body orange. The black hood from GM was then also change to their orange.
Thanks to Butch Voigt, one of the few remaining 1951 Chevy 16 passenger Carpenter school buses is alive and well. In fact it is above museum quality! It is a great addition to his show quality collection of school buses that represent another era of taking children to Minnesota schools.
You can contact Butch Voigt at 1-218-765-3104
| As Butch bought it in 2011. |
 |
 |
 |
|
| Ready for school. |
 |
 |
 |
|
| New bus seats, never used. |
Exact original interior color. |
 |
 |
|
| The large heater is ready. |
Sitting between the frame rails. |
 |
 |
|
| Cooper Lines to large bus heater. |
|
 |
|
NOTE: FOR EVEN MORE PHOTOS OF THE ORIGINAL BUS AND THE RESTORATION OF BUTCH’S SPECIAL VEHICLE: CLICK HERE.
Posted in 1950's, Featured Trucks | No Comments »
Thursday, November 1st, 2012
Owner: Scott Phaneuf
It all began over 30 years ago about 60 miles from Boston, Massachusetts. Scott Phaneuf had begun to accumulate a few rental houses. He had started looking for a pickup truck to help move larger remodeling supplies. Nothing fancy was needed, just a less expensive pickup for hauling lumber, sheetrock, trash, etc.
Then it happened! After checking several older trucks in his city he was told of an unusual late 1950’s pickup in the adjacent town. He found it sitting outside behind a neighborhood garage and not running. The owner called it a 1958 Chevrolet Cameo truck. He said it was very rare and almost none had survived. Scott immediately was interested. After 2 few phone calls and checking the public library he found it was very unusual truck and was produced at the end of its 3 ½ year production run in the mid-1950s. Scott had to have it!
After towing it home, Scott soon decided it was too unusual to leave so deteriorated. Why not turn it into almost new condition, use it for only light hauling, and have something few people in his area had ever seen. Therefore, in about a year Scott personally restored it to look almost new! It became his special hauler for almost 30 years.
Our story actually begins about 25 years after his first Cameo was purchased. Scott or his wife Donna was looking on Ebay when it was just in its beginnings and saw a 1958 Cameo in Georgia. Why not have another 1958? It would be like a “his and hers” pair of 1958 Cameos. They owned a large garage and had the restoration experience from the first Cameo. They made an Ebay bid and owned it!
When they returned from Georgia with their second Cameo, they decided it would be restored as perfect as they could make it and build it as an all original “show truck”.
Thus, this is our Feature Truck of the Month, the second 1958 Chevrolet Cameo owned by Scott and Donna Phaneuf. Yes, they bought it because it was a rare 1958 but it was also equipped with the optional 283 V-8 engine, a rare Hydramatic transmission, and very rare power steering. Later when they removed the body from the frame, a case of “buyer’s remorse” set in. “What did we do”? The rust was so much worse than their first. The cab floors, lower door hinge supports, and sheet metal corners were rusted beyond repair. Most any lower sheet metal panels needed to be replaced. They had no choice but to continue with the restoration. The truck was now in pieces and would have limited value in parts.
Fortunately Scott and Donna didn’t stop the restoration and they did it together. Several years later it became a near new as you can get. It’s considered Donnas’ truck.
The paint is the correct Tartan Turquoise and Bombay Ivory. Accessories on this already loaded Cameo are radio, fresh air heater, behind the seat tool tray and tool kit. It mostly is kept in their garage, but is occasionally seen at local shows. The main show for 2012 was at the American Truck Historical Society’s national meet in West Springfield, Massachusetts where it was displayed among the best in the country.
For most of us having two very nice 1958 Cameo’s would be the limit of our vehicle collection. But not the Phaneuf’s. No, their collection increased when they later discovered another 1958 Cameo they call #3. It is the rarest of all. Only two were made by General Motors and they were for display at 1958 auto shows. These had fuel injection as was offered as on option of the early Chevrolet Corvette’s with a 283 V-8 engine. After a major restoration it’s a real eye catcher with correct Golden Yellow and Jet Black colors.
A few years ago Scott retired so he now has even more time to spend in the restoration hobby. He recently found #4 1958 Cameo for such a good price he could not resist. It is probably the only Kodiak Brown with Bombay Ivory trim 1958 Cameo in existence. With Scott’s experience, it’s very rough condition and many years of outside storage will allow the Cameo to be restored while most would have called it a total loss.
The BIG restoration of all is now also underway including Cameo #4. How do you transport four Cameos to major shows? Well, Scott quickly has the answer. You move them together like they did 50 years ago. In North Carolina he found a 1959 Chevrolet Spartan 100 tractor and later a 50 year old Anchor car hauler trailer. They fit together perfectly! Won’t that be the show of all shows? Stay tuned for a big future article with photos when all is complete.
Who said you were to sit back in your easy chair when you retired?
You can contact Scott by email at: keyman4885@yahoo.com
Tags: 1958, 1958 Cameo
Posted in 1950's, Featured Trucks | No Comments »
Monday, October 1st, 2012
Owner: Ed Brouillet
It’s 1935! With the encouragement of the US Army, the first Chevrolet Suburban is introduced. The Army wanted an enclosed vehicle to carry officers with a driver at their military bases. Of course, it would be a boost to Chevrolet for people to see they were doing so well during the Great Depression that they could even introduce another body style! Now looking back over 75 years ago there must have been some guarantees by the Army to encourage General Motors to create a new body design in the middle of bad economic times. Sales were down drastically in all brands of automobiles and trucks. Over half of the makes would be gone forever before the end of this disastrous economic downturn.
Trying to boost slow sales and save their dealers, the Chevrolet Division introduces the “standard” car in 1935. It was less expensive than the “master” car which was the full size body. The “standard” was slightly smaller, less appointed, and some mechanical features were less complicated than their full size car.
Sales of the GMC line (big trucks) had dropped so much that many of their dealers were out of business. General Motors attempted to counter this by introducing their first ½ and ¾ ton pickups. They even created the “Trail-a-bout”, a small utility trailer for pulling behind passenger cars using their pre-existing pickup box.
With all this gloom and doom for the auto industry, what a surprise when Chevrolet introduces their new 1935 Suburban.
When you look close you realize this new body is set on the pre-existing ½ ton chassis, a major cost cutting feature. The chassis, doors, front sheet metal, wheels, radiator, bumpers, and cowl are all from the ½ ton. The Suburban was new in body only. This lesser investment probably helped seal the agreement between the US Army request and General Motors.
Our feature truck of the month is owned by Ed Brouillet of Fairfield, Connecticut. Ed states his first year Suburban is one of only 5 remaining of that year. The body’s wood framework covered in sheet metal did not survive well when year’s later water began leaking from the canvas top and began to reach the interior. As the Suburban aged, few owners had the money or interest to make any major repairs. With the large scrap metal drives during WWII, most were donated for their metal value.
Ed proudly mentions his Suburban is not only from the first year but it is the “first” one from the Chevrolet factory! This may be the reason why it was painted Swifts Red in a conservative era. Most vehicles were blue, green, and black. It was driven by a General Motors executive and kept it at its very best during the time it was assigned to him. Being seen driving such a unique shaped body was great advertising.
It is considered the “first” Suburban for two reasons:
There is no rear lift gate and no evidence of a place for hinges or the latch. There is only a roll-up canvas curtain. The other 5 remaining 1935 Suburban’s have these stampings for a metal lift gate.
There are no body tags on the firewall or stamped serial numbers on the engine block. No grinding or filling the holes or stamped numbers can be seen.
We assume the new Suburban was introduced toward the end of the 1935 as only 75 were made that year. Many more were produced in 1936.
Ed bought it over 20 years ago from the second owner, Walter Deck of Illinois, who was also a well known professional auto restorer. This person realized the rarity of owning the first Suburban and completed this ground up restoration just right. Because of being the first, all was done just like it left the factory.
The vehicle has not been in local shows for about 4 years. Because 2012 is Chevrolets 100th Anniversary, it is temporarily on display in the Antique Automobile Club of America Museum in Hershey, PA. For a close up view of the Suburban, visit this museum while in town at the famous Hershey Swapmeet in October 2012.
Note: Ed has hinted he is considering selling this “number one” Suburban. It has been appraised at $150,000.00! Bids are being considered starting at $125,000.00. See it at the museum or contact us for a contact.
Posted in 1930's | No Comments »
Thursday, August 30th, 2012
Owners: Richard and Delores Diestler
It has become a top Wisconsin show truck in less than 2 years! Twelve shows and eleven trophies. After that came one of the areas largest car and truck shows in Antigo, Wisconsin. Three hundred vehicles and this truck received first place! You can’t do much better than this! This show truck is driven to all shows. No trailering.
Management of Wisconsin’s largest car show and swap meet in Iola heard about this special truck and invited it to be placed in the “Blue Ribbon” section of this non-judging show during July 2012. This was certainly a special honor.
The truck is a 1951 Chevrolet 3/4 ton pickup. The owners are Richard and Delores Diestler of Schofield, Wisconsin. Their pickup came from a North Dakota farm about 3 years ago and Richard found it on a local snowmobile dealer’s lot. Richard had wanted to restore an older truck for many years. It was just finding the correct GM truck for this project. The pickup was brought to their home by a tow truck and two other trucks carried in miscellaneous parts that had been removed. Richard had been restoring antique farm tractors so there was some idea of what was ahead.
It required about 2 years (2,500 hours) to complete this ground up restoration. Richard is retired so he could devote full time to this project. Of course, to make it just right, all was removed to leave the bare frame. The total rebuild began as each part was replaced or repaired.
The cab required the usual replacement of floor metal and cab corners. Building it was like putting together a large model kit! Almost everything was done just like Chevrolet made it over 60 years ago. Even the Forester green paint and maroon Spanish grain seat covering are just right.
The engine remains the correct gray 216 and 4 speed transmission is what the pickup has always had. A hidden upgrade changed the 4.57 ratio ring and pinion to a 4.10 ratio from a 1972 3/4 ton. This is an exact drop-in and reduces engine speed almost 20%. All is out of sight.
Richard had questions on using the original 15” split ring wheels. They remained part of his restoration project until he found these 8 bolt chrome wheels. These new wheels perfectly fit his ¾ ton drums so he decided on this one visible item that would not be 1951.
Congratulations to Richard and Delores Diestler for such an excellent restoration. A real eye catcher wherever it goes!
If you’d like to contact Richard, his email address is richarddiestler@charter.net.
Note: This article is by their granddaughter and appeared in a recent issue of the Schofield newspaper.
“On August 19th 2012 two childhood best friends were reunited at the Antigo Car Show. Dick Diestler and John Phillips were both born and raised in Birnamwood, WI. They spent their childhoods together playing and attending school. However, time passed and as usually happens they went their separate ways and lost touch. But their interests still remained similar.
They both married, raised families and then after retirement they both began restoring trucks. Dick began restoring a 1951 Chevy and John a 1946 Chevy. When they were finished they began showing them at car shows around the state until they both ended up in Antigo together. The perfect ending to their reunion came at the awards show where they were both awarded trophies.
Dick received 1st place in the 1900-1966 stock division for his 1951 Chevy 3600 and John received 1st place in the commercial one ton and overstock division for his 1946 Chevy 1-1/2 ton. They both continue to show their trucks at local car shows and more importantly they are now back in touch. Congratulations to both my Grandpa Dick and his friend John on their beautiful trucks. And thank you for proving that lasting friendship knows no limitations and that includes time.”
Tags: 1951 Chevy
Posted in 1950's | No Comments »
Wednesday, August 1st, 2012
Owner: Mike Reese
A 70 Year Old GMC Saved From The Crusher!
This 1940 GMC 1 ½ ton had been retired along with its original owner, a farmer near Grand Rapids, Michigan for many, many years. It had been placed in a barn with badly damaged fenders, grille and related front items. The bed was beyond repair. If it was not for the sentimental value to family members, years later, it would have been sent to the crusher. A younger family member aware the truck was hidden in a barn began to consider updating it and making it roadworthy. The big plus was a pair of New Old Stock front fenders and running boards stored on the bed. This gave him the incentive to start on grandfather’s farm truck. It was a surface restoration but still became expensive. The bed was rebuilt at almost $900.00. Installing the new front fenders, finding a chrome grille and bumper surely added to the expense.
A second owner purchased the truck about 1993, however, he never did any further restoration. It sat for 10 years. Maybe this is the reason why it went up for sale. The big restoration money was yet to be spent.
The current owner is Mike Reese of Kempton, Pennsylvania. He bought it on-line in 2003 because he loved the appearance of the front end and cab. He became committed to make it look like new!
He already owned a 1951 Chevy fire truck and a 1951 Chevy 2 ton short wheel base dump truck (he still uses it for occasional gravel and dirt hauling) so he was very aware of what was ahead of him. However, he needed a lighter weight less massive older GM truck for driving to more distant truck shows and being more a part of the fun.
Mike did the final steps of the restoration, taking three years of evenings and weekends to complete. Total cleaning, painting the original Pimpernel Scarlet, all new rubber, correct interior, many mechanicals restored, etc. It was all done to exact 70 year old specifications. Finally, it became just like the Michigan farmer saw it when he bought the truck from the GMC dealership in 1940.
It’s now a head turner everywhere Mike takes it. People just stand and stare at the workmanship. They are looking at what they have only seen in black and white photos of the 1940’s.
After the first year of driving it on lesser traveled roads, Mike finally made one hidden change. He replaced the original 228 cubic inch six cylinder with a completely rebuilt 1956 270 engine. The outward appearance is identical. The two engines even used the same overhaul gasket set. Now the truck had a different personality. He could drive it on freeways to distant truck shows. He still keeps it about 60mph as the truck is still held back due to the original 4.56 ratio differential. He has not been able to find a higher ratio ring and pinion without making a major change that requires different wheels and he refuses to have a different design wheel on the front and rear. We offer our congratulations on this thinking.
One of the items that really stands out on this 1940 flat bed at all shows is the original GMC bed. Most display aftermarket beds, however Mike’s is pure General Motors. The two tall curved front panels (like a half barrel) are a true example of a truck that was ordered with the correct GM bed.
Mike Reese and his 1940 are often seen at Pennsylvania weekend truck shows; however his furthest was the American Truck Historical Society 2011 annual convention in South Bend, Indiana. Distance driven: 630 miles one way. This national club’s 2012 convention was in West Springfield, Massachusetts. This was 250 one way miles.
He never misses the world famous annual Macungie, Pennsylvania truck show 30 miles away. This year there were 600 participants on display. No judging, just lots of fun and memories.
Mike’s 1940 is quite an eye catcher at shows. He almost always receives a trophy or at least honorable mention. Yes, a home family room has many awards that prove this statement.
Mike Reese can be contacted by email— ashtonlansford@aol.com
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Barn Fresh in April 1984!
|
 |
 |
 |
Tags: 1 1/2 ton pickup, 1940, gmc, one and a half ton
Posted in 1940's | No Comments »
Monday, July 2nd, 2012
Owners: John and Michele Dunkirk
We have always assumed that less than 100 Advance Design Canopy Express trucks remain. If you ever see one restored or not restored, you should stop and take note. They are a part of our nation’s history. They carried groceries in neighborhoods with one car families during the years they were built. The husbands drove the family car to work and the ladies were housewives. Grocers knew if they were to stay in business they must drive their Canopy Express to housing areas displaying and delivering food. Our feature truck is probably the most complete and perfect restored example in existence!
It is owned and has been restored by John and Michele Dunkirk of Southampton, New York. His desire to have a Canopy Express was because his first vehicle was this body style. In the 1960’s few people had an interest in this unique older body design as a used vehicle! Thus, it was the least expensive vehicle John could buy during his later high school years. After 2 years of use he sold it to an auto junk yard for $15.00.
After completing restoration on a beautiful 1954 Chevrolet ½ ton about 15 years ago, (they still have it) John continued to think about his first vehicle in high school. The restoration bug had now bitten John and he wanted to do another Advance Design truck. Yes, he decided it had to be a 1947-53 Canopy Express. The problem, there were none! They were built for work and a first owner wanted them to look their very best doing neighborhood grocery marketing. Sad but true, there was almost no interest in a second hand Canopy Express. Within 5 years the wood and canvas side curtains began deteriorating. The wooden rear floor now stayed wet from rain and snow and mechanical maintenance requirements were beginning. The Canopy Express had reached the end of a short life.
John’s several year hunt ended in Florida from a small magazine advertisement. The way the owner described it, made the truck sound like a real one! He drove almost 800 miles one way to see it. A great surprise, it was the real thing and a 1953. As he looked at the total package, it seemed so deteriorated! It would need it all and a little more. At the time, John thought this must be about the only one left in the world so the damage from age and abuse was overlooked.
The restoration went “full steam ahead”. No nut or bolt would be left untouched. It was like building a large model kit after the parts were restored. They soon realized what a big project they were into, however there was no turning back. Otherwise only a pile of parts would remain for salvage.
After almost 5 years including 500 hours in bodywork and painting plus another 1,000 hours in all the other parts of the restoration, the 1953 Canopy is now a “Work of Art”. It is one of the top attractions at all shows! The finished vehicle is now basically as it was when new. A great inline six cylinder motor is just broke in. Of course, the 4 speed transmission was a necessity on a Canopy Express. The low speed first gear was for slow moving through the neighborhood while displaying grocery products. The paint is a correct 1953-55 Chevrolet truck color, Transport Blue. John added one change to the restoration, it originally had a single bucket seat. He used a full pickup seat, so he and Michele could attend distant shows together. The white wall tires were a non-GM accessory but local tire shops could have installed them after the canopy was bought. This would make the truck more of an attention getter when selling merchandise in the neighborhoods.
There are several large expenses “not” mentioned that aren’t included in the 1,500 hours restoration time. The most costly expense was the acquisition of a Canopy Express tailgate. John’s Canopy Express came with the tailgate missing! How could he spend so much time and money on this project and then be stopped without a tailgate? He had no idea this part would be so difficult to locate. He continued with the restoration assuming the gate would be found by the end of the project. It wasn’t. The Dunkirk’s hauled it to New England shows for 2 years after completion with no tailgate! No matter how hard he researched, there was no gate to be found. They even took it to Stowe, Vermont twice for the most attended antique car and truck show of the summer. It received second place in the commercial class for both years. Still no tailgate!
On one summer weekend it was taken to the large monthly Hemming’s Car Show in Bennington, Vermont were it was placed in the top ten vehicles.
Numerous local shows on Long Island, NY also saw this little canopy for the evening. Actually, part of the reason for many of the shows was to try to get a lead on a tailgate.
Finally, a few years later another small magazine advertisement led to a tailgate. An un-restored complete Canopy Express with a tailgate was for sale in Southern California. The problem: John and his wife, Michele were in Southampton, New York. There was no choice. They flew across the country to see it! It was found to be well worn as John’s had been but it had a tailgate. As they arranged commercial transportation to New York, we assume John remembered he sold his first canopy to a salvage yard for $15.00. When it reached New York a few weeks later, John and his body man finally agreed and accepted the bad news. The inner tailgate panel had been beat so bad that the dings, tears, and holes made it un-restorable. Without this inner panel, there could be no tailgate. What a disappointment! What happens next?
One day a lucky thing happened! With research John discovered the tailgate from a 1947-55 Suburban is the same in the lower 2/3 as a Canopy Express. With almost as much effort as finding the Canopy gate, John finally traded for a damaged Suburban tailgate. A restorable inner panel was now in his possession. He could cut it shorter and make a new inside gate panel for his Canopy. The truck could be completed!
Next project; Finding the artificial fruit and vegetables to display were the easy part. Locating mint condition grocery boxes of the 1950’s was another story. John and Michele attended many flea markets and garage sales. The boxes had to be of wood of the 1950’s and their colorful paper labels perfect. They soon found the best sources were estate sales. Most wood boxes and labels had survived because they had been put in attics and basements 50 years and used for storing merchandise. At these sales, John and Michele bought the boxes when they could and not the miscellaneous items they contained.
Now that the total restoration is completed a big appreciation for help go to Trevor and Stephanie Mercer that worked side by side with the Dunkirk’s during the 500 hours spent. Gene “The Tool Guy”, handmade the many panels (body, tailgate repairs, and floor) to replace those so badly rusted. Reproductions were not available.
During the 3 years it has been totally restored the Dunkirk’s are occasionally asked “What does it take to build a truck like this”. They quickly say “Just the money invested is over $50,000. This does not include the tailgate trip to California with return truck line freight, the drive to Florida to find the Suburban, plus finding the many distant flea markets while on a “grocery box hunt”. Then we come to the value of their time in the 5 year ground up restoration. Just make a guess of the investment! It all started with John’s first truck in high school.
You can contact John and Michele at : micheleant@hotmail.com
Tags: 1953, chevrolet, old chevy truck, pickup, suburban
Posted in 1950's | No Comments »
Thursday, May 31st, 2012
While recently sorting through some stored papers we found some older photos of our
un-restored 1937 Chevrolet Canopy Express we once owned. What a surprise! We thought these pictures were lost.
Our company, Jim Carter Truck Parts, had bought this very rare vehicle from Walt Kutchler of Anaheim, CA during the early 1990’s. Walt was an avid collector of 1937 Suburban’s and other rare 1930’s Chevrolets.
Our idea was to restore it to new condition. It would then be placed in our company show room for customers to see. We were a relatively new company and restoration funds were limited. We discovered it would probably be years before we could afford to complete this restoration and gather some of the rare missing parts. So when a person in Northern California began to push us into selling it, we finally yielded to the pressure.
After all, he was to keep it looking like a 1937 and also used it in his business for advertising.
Some of the photos you are seeing are when Roger and Ginny Schuyler of Crescent City, CA first received it from us. Yes, much work was ahead of them. When I received his packet in the mail in 1999, I was amazed! The little 1937 Chevrolet Canopy Express was better than new. We had plans to use its original 216 six cylinder engine, however the Schuyler’s choice of a small block V-8 turned out very well. The bright paint, side curtains, and white wall tires make it the eye- catcher at all the shows. Roger told me at its first show, it received a 2nd place out of 500 vehicles! We can see why.
While writing this article, we found the phone number we had for the Schuyler’s was no longer theirs. If anyone knows where the Schuylers or this little 1937 Canopy Express are located, we would sure be interested in reconnecting with them. Email us at jcarter@oldchevytrucks.com. Please see updated information below the images.
Update: June 14, 2012
The new owners have been found! They are Hap and Karen Volk of southwest Oregon. The Canopy Express is said to be just as clean as when first restored. As often occurs with a vehicle this nice, the owners hesitate driving it because of the possibility of scrapes, gravel chips, and related road damages.
They have considered selling it at about their cost of $40,000. If you are a serious buyer, the owners can be contacted at karen@karenvolkrealty.com or call (541) 672-4444.
Posted in 1930's | No Comments »
Thursday, May 3rd, 2012
Owner: Rod Lentz
We met the owner, Rod Lentz of Dillsburg, Pennsylvania at the recent Spring Carlisle Event in April 2012. It was a pleasure hearing of his lifelong enjoyment of owning and restoring older vehicles, especially the 1947-55 Chevrolet Advance Design body style. He became talented in most all mechanical and body repairs. However, he gradually began to think the best of both worlds would be a 1947-53 body with more modern street rod components.
Then one day it happened! He saw the first GM ads showing their soon to be released SSR truck in 2004. He was overtaken with interest. It would be so great to own a new Chevy truck that looked much like the 60 year original and have all the options we have today. He had to have one!!
Later in the year at the unveiling of the new SSR, Rod was a little disappointed. It looked much less like the older trucks he grew up with and the price was well, shall we say not reachable. He realized he would not be owning the SSR that he had been building himself up to own. What now? With his many years of experience with older cars and now being a mechanic at a local Chevrolet dealership, why not build one? He would create his own version of an SSR. It would be updated, and still quickly recognizable as an Advance Design truck.
So it’s 6 years later and Rod’s new SSR is placed on the road. It is truly a vehicle that stops traffic and creates crowds at all antique car shows. Nothing has ever been seen like this. GM should have had this vehicle as a guide to build their SSR!
For more details on Rod’s SSR, check the following to learn some of his secrets:
Rod saw a newspaper ad for some stored unlicensed older vehicles about 10 miles from his home. A 1949 deluxe 5 window Chevrolet had some restoration potential, however a nearby 1948 ½ ton panel truck was far from rebuilding. The owner had not yet called a metal recycler to remove the remaining parts. He told Rod if he would buy the pickup, the parts of the panel truck would be free. This offer and Rod’s creative ideas made the deal. The two vehicles could maybe be combined to create a one of a kind truck that looked more like it came from a Chevrolet dealership 60 years ago and definitely resemble the newly introduced SSR truck.
Good luck! As Rod suspected, the pickup cab width is the same as the panel truck. This was important in grafting the sides to the pickup. The floor was too deteriorated in the panel so it was here Rod got even more creative. He found a used metal floor from a newer used pickup and cut the edges to be just right for the panel truck body. The whole package was sandblasted, patched, and primed before attaching it to the pickup. Yes, it also attached to the frame rails! GM made it that way.
Notice the rear of the bed. Do you recognize some of the remains of the two barn doors from the panel truck? Of course, they fit perfectly because they were from the parts Rod received with the panel truck body! He welded the two halves together to make one panel and then made them into a fold down hinged tailgate.
To help create a little more of the SSR proportions, the top was lowered 2” and the doors widened 4”. What a job! The dash of the 1949 was replaced with one from a 1957 Chevy car.
The engine is as unique as the hand crafted body. Rod found a new 292 six cylinder at a nearby Chevrolet dealership. This is the big six for large trucks and school buses from 1963 through the early 1980’s. He added a 4 barrel Offenhouser intake manifold and Edlebrock carburetor plus a dual exhaust system. The appropriate chrome and polished metal give it that special appearance that is so different than a V-8 engine. Just this power plant alone makes it a real “crowd stopper” at any auto show! The highway performance is amazing! A few V-8 engines might be able to keep up with it.
The floor shift transmission is the current popular T-5 five speed from an early S-10 Chevrolet truck. Its overdrive 5th gear gives the panel/pickup the little extra on the highway and helps lower engine RPM. The shift lever comes out of the floor in just the correct factory position.
Rod used a 1980’s aluminum Corvette differential that gives the truck higher highway speed. The front suspension is also all aluminum as removed from a 1984 Corvette. Modern all disc brakes and 5 bolt 16” wheels add to the package.
Look at those unique headlights. The headlight holes in the front fender were slightly enlarged and now they secure the light assemblies from a Volkswagen New Beatle.
By using two mufflers from a US made Victory motorcycle on the dual exhaust system, the sound is just right. There is no comparison to the sound from a V-8 engine.
The photos tell the story. Rob has a SSR that looks like the 1950’s.
You can contact him at: rnclentz@comcast.net
Tags: 1947 Chevrolet Advance Design, 1955 Chevrolet Advance Desnign
Posted in 1940's, 1950's | No Comments »
Tuesday, April 3rd, 2012
Owner: Norman Smith
This month’s feature truck is one of the nation’s finest 1957 Chevrolet Suburbans. We saw it for the first time about 1994, shortly after its total ground-up restoration. It remains in its pristine condition today and still almost looks like the day it left the factory.
The owner is Norman Smith of Denver, Colorado. As a lifelong old car enthusiast, Norm has restored and owned other Chevrolet vehicles but the Suburban is by far the most perfect in his history. He went all out to make it like new.
Found in a local newspaper ad in1983, it was in such poor condition Norm had questions on owning it. But, where do you find a Suburban even in 1983? Its prior owner had used it to carry products to local flea markets. Thus, two rear seats were gone. Electrical shorts in the old wiring prevented it from starting after the battery lost its charge in about 12 hours. Of course, having been driven daily in Denver winters, the 25 year old vehicle was full of rust. So, the bargain price of $400 may have been correct.
The more Norm looked at it at home, the more he liked it. He had always wanted a Suburban and only he saw the potential of making it look excellent. In fact, Norm soon decided to restore it all the way! He would go down to the bare frame and work to have a new 1957 Chevrolet Suburban. There would be no exceptions to the rule.
First, extensive research would be required to not make mistakes. Norm spent a great deal of time in the library looking over Chevrolet manuals and visiting many salvage yards for answers. Few personal computers existed in the 1980s and digital cameras to keep records did not exist. Norm used the telephone and US mail to gain parts and knowledge. This is just the way it was done before computers.
He had done upgrades on early Chevrolets, but nothing would be like this. Time was not a problem. Getting it right was a challenge.
This nine year project was completed in 1992. His heart and mind had always been on his Suburban restoration. It is doubtful Norm’s employer ever knew they weren’t first in his mind.
The finished product is just like it rolled off the assembly line. The exterior is the correct 1957 truck cardinal red. The gray interior and gray vinyl covered three row seats are just right.
Factory options include; a 265 cubic inch V-8 (the more long-lived 283 was first offered in trucks in 1958), 4-speed transmission, chrome bumpers, grille, hub caps, and dash knobs, plus an electric wiper motor.
Dealer installed Chevrolet accessories are; chrome wheel rings, hood rockets, fresh-air heater, AM radio, spotlight, cigarette lighter, right-side rearview mirror, turn signals, plus passenger side arm rests and sunvisor. It doesn’t take one’s imagination to realize the trophies and related awards he and his Suburban have received in the Colorado area since 1992.
An example of Norm’s requirement to have a new 1957 Suburban is the long one piece of ribbed, black rubber mat GM used between the middle seat and tailgate. It is not available anywhere! After much thinking on what to do, Norm came up with a theory that turned out to be perfect. He ordered a piece of heavy linoleum that was used on theater stages and dance studios. This is thick and has the same black color all the way through. A professional carpenter was found that was the best at using a wood router. This high-speed cutter made perfect factory grooves in the linoleum. Norm had just enough of the original rubber mat up by the middle seat so he knew his new handmade mat was show quality.
Because of Norm Smith’s strong interest in early American vehicles, he also does restoration work for others. He operates a small shop that makes customers cars look like new. You can contact Norm Smith at his email address; snecorp@aol.com.
Note: Another example of Norm Smith enjoying the unusual is in storage beside his Suburban. This is his 1956 Chevrolet four-door right-hand drive passenger car he bought many years ago during a visit to Australia. I’m sure this was a significant cost to ship this vehicle from the other side of the world! We can just imagine the attention this vehicle receives on the streets of Denver, Colorado.
Tags: 1957 Chevrolet suburban
Posted in 1950's | No Comments »
Wednesday, February 29th, 2012
It’s the most southern town in the world, Punta Arenas, Chile. During February 2012 we are touring a sheep farm at the edge of the community. The exhibit in an adjacent barn is showing the sheering procedure to remove the one year growth of wool from a large male sheep.
After the demonstration, our attention turns to the back of the barn. As we walk around a partition, what a surprise! There sits a licensed un-restored 1953 Chevrolet ½ ton! This approximately 60 year old truck is said to be used weekly for driving to the town for supplies, church, or just for pleasure. To be honest, during most of their winter (over 60% of the year) it is kept in storage. It still has its original 216 six cylinder engine and 3 speed column shift transmission with closed drive shaft. Can there be any better example of the bullet proof construction of these little Chevrolet trucks?
The pickup has never been restored, but non-GM upgrades have been added over the years to replace worn parts. At the southern tip of Chile, you use what can be found to keep vehicles operating!
The changes are what we have often seen in the US as these trucks were kept roadworthy with limited expense. Our walk around this ½ ton shows the following:
New larger park lights allow for modern turn signals.
12 Volt battery.
A replacement floor mat has been cut from a larger rubber sheet.
In recent years, the red paint was added to freshen up the appearance.
It has chrome spoke wheels; however the originals (two have snow tires) are stored in the bed.
Look at the tail lights. Whatever they are from, they will certainly be seen!
The optional rear bumper has a replacement from some make of car.
A bracket from a 1941-1946 to help hold the hand crank has been welded to the middle of the front bumper.
The shoulder belts appear to be attached to the interior panel with sheet metal lag bolts. You can’t add a nut between the sealed inner and outer metal panels. We question if this bolt would stay in place during a major accident.
Look! A 4 speed shift knob from somewhere on the 3 speed column shift lever.
A 1947-48 Chevrolet car steering wheel. Was this a left over item used at the factory on this import pickup?
The bedwood required replacing. Thus, wood planks with no bed strips.
What unusual pedal pads.
In the most southern town in the world, you use the side mirrors you can find.
A modern third brake light is secured to the rear window.
Look at the unusual inner fender terminal blocks. With new recent wiring something had to be found.
A 1951-52 Chevy car hood emblem fits close but not exact.
All dash gauges are on the metric system.
In the US the Chevrolet original dash oil gauge face reads 0 to 30 pounds because of the low pressure216 engine. Using the metric system the gauge must read 0 to 60 as does our feature truck. Therefore, this is the same gauge face as used in the 1952-53 GMC trucks in the US with the high oil pressure engine. What a coincidence!
The most interesting is a pair of 1951 doors (pull down handles) are on this 1953. It should have push button handles. Of course, this is an export truck, no doubt the assembly line in 1953 used extra parts available to create this pickup to be sold in other countries.
Tags: 1953 Chevrolet 1/2 Ton
Posted in 1950's | No Comments »
Monday, January 30th, 2012
Owner: Russell Penniston
A one family owned 4×4 Blazer bought new in 1971! George Penniston purchased it to drive to the various job site locations of his construction company. This go anywhere vehicle was necessary to reach off road job sites through mud and snow.
George bought it at Parrish Chevrolet in Liberty, MO. It lacked only one option he required which was air conditioning. George had this installed a few weeks later. The Blazer served him well for many years and nothing was changed in the appearance or mechanicals. After years in construction, George retired and so did the Blazer. It sat for years in the corner of the large construction business shop, later to be owned by his son Russell.
Russell’s hobby was always large antique trucks which he had collected and often restored to new appearance. Therefore, it was many years before he put the little Blazer in line for restoration. In fact it was when he retired that the Blazer project began. It was so untouched over the years that to complete it, Russell only had to add new trim paint, upholstery, tires, body mounts, and the usual restoration done on 35 year old vehicles. Even a pair of 1971 Missouri license plates are attached. The mechanicals were excellent, so cleaning and painting made them just like it was in 1971. Working on it for several years, it was finished about 2005. It’s now like a magnet with people at auto shows. The awards are many.
It still has the original double stripe white wall spare tire in its correct position. The rubber rear floor mat came with the Blazer when new. The under hood mechanical parts are so original that local restorers have used it as a guide to build their same year trucks.
A few items of interest to the new enthusiast of early Blazers:
The dash has no speaker slots at the top like the conventional trucks. GM knew with a removable top, there would be a chance of it being caught in the rain. This would ruin a speaker. Therefore, GM placed the speaker and a protective grille at the bottom of the dash. With Russell’s Blazer this was moved to the hump in the floor because of the aftermarket air conditioning system.
The in-cab spare tire is secured to a special floor bracket.
The bucket seats are not like those on the more Deluxe pickups of the same years. In fact, the optional right seat totally tips forward to provide access to the optional rear seat.
Without the optional console, the factory seat belt buckle is placed in a non-metal pocket attached to the inner side of the seat.
Yes, the tailgate is also used on the Fleetside pickups; however a narrow horizontal metal strip is screwed to the top to allow for a weather seal on the lift gate of the removable top.
As a non-smoking family, there was never an accessory factory cigarette lighter. Note the black original blank out beside the heater control panel. Very rare!
The first year for disc brakes. GM added a decal only this one year to advertise this feature.
Russell’s 1971 Blazer continues to be one of the most popular vehicles at local car shows. He still remembers a friendly teasing comment “If your Blazer wasn’t here so often, someone else could have a chance at an award”.
Front w/ 1971 License |
350 V-8 |
Blazer’s are rated K/5 |
350 V-8 w/ after market air |
Original Spare Tire & floor Mat |
Tailgate w/Blazer Air Seal Strip |
Lift Gate |
First Year For Disc Brakes |
Cigarette Lighter Plug |
Unrestored Door Panel |
Rear Seat w/ Some Awards |
|
Tags: chevrolet, old chevy truck
Posted in 1970's | No Comments »
Thursday, December 29th, 2011
1948 Chevy Truck –“ Heartbeat of America”
Owner: Luke Stefanovsky
This was my 1st project of this sort after dreaming about it for years. I did not start the restoration, but have finished the interior, exterior, the engine bay, and performed some undercarriage work. Once starting the restoration, I was “all in”! It became a great stress-reliever from the daily responsibilities of being a middle school principal in a state hard-hit by the Recession. I spent more time in my waking hours thinking about the truck that I should; it occupied my dreams as well! The truck was back on the road August 2009, and it now has approximately 1600 miles on the completely rebuilt 235 c.i. 6 cylinder engine pulled from a 1955 Chevy. It has a 4-speed stick (floor) with a 4:11 rear. The truck is now my summer daily driver in West Branch, Michigan (approximately 90 miles from my home in Alma, Michigan).
The truck was in the service fleet for the Road Department in Mineral County, Nevada (county seat is in Hawthorne) sometime until the mid/late 1960s. I have corresponded with the man who purchased it from them; it has had multiple owners since then. The truck was originally purchased by the Road Department from the Chevy dealership in Hawthorne, which is no longer in existence. The Mineral County seals on the door sides were compliments of the current Road Department supervisor. I purchased the amber Federal service light and mounted it on a pole in the front-left of the truck bed; the switch is now under the dash. The patched holes from a roof-mounted service light were clearly visible before the headliner was replaced. I’d love to find a rare 1948 Nevada “highway exempt truck” license plate to mount on the front of the truck, which would replace the standard 1948 Nevada truck plate.
Evidence of the truck’s past includes “cleats” of some sort, which can be seen below the tailgate area and the various holes on the side-rails. Holes in various other locations around the truck where unknown items were mounted can be seen. One such set of holes on the upper left of the dashboard were for a small rubber-bladed electric fan. I found a rare N.O.S. Casco rubber-bladed fan and installed it in that very same location! Another hole on the dashboard was where the wiring for the vintage N.O.S. illuminated Hull compass is now located. I completely restored the original Harrison heater that came with the truck, which must have come in handy on cold Nevada mornings/evenings out on the Mineral County roads. IF THESE OLD TRUCKS COULD ONLY TALK!
Amongst a very long list of things done to this truck, I’ve added vintage Guide turn signals, a horn, amber Guide 5-3/4” fog lights, a rear passenger tail light, Guide back-up lights, the side-mounted spare tire, decorative hood ornament, a restored radio/antennae, under hood lamp (a rare accessory), refinished the bed, and added seatbelts (the only way my wife and son were going to ride with me!). A N.O.S. Casco cigar lighter was installed. New wheels were painted/striped and mated to a new set of tires, along with new hubcaps. The cab was striped. The driver’s side inner door panel, the driver’s side upper hinge detents, hinge pins, and the passenger side door latch were replaced. I had to also replace the driver’s side stainless steel window trim. Original “high dome” bumper bolts, along with Marsden nuts, were restored and used on the bumpers. An original jack/handle and complete tool set were also placed under the bench seat. A finishing touch was finding and mounting a GM accessory chrome grille guard. The truck was completely rewired, maintaining the original 6 volt electrical service. Instrument gauges were also restored.
New friends have been made through the project the past few years—some over the phone, others via the Internet, and many in person. The information, help received, and locating miscellaneous parts from the Stovebolt, H.A.M.B., V.C.C.A., and Chevy Bomb forums has been much appreciated. I also found eBay a good place to find parts.
Younger brothers Joe and John were a big help on the project. Joe was a huge help on the electrical side of the project, as well as the body finish. John completed the restoration by building a set of bed racks/rails out of red oak left behind by our deceased Grandpa K.—“the Judge”—who ironically retired from the Bay County, Michigan Road Department.
Driving the “Heartbeat of America” on a regular basis and attending classic car shows has validated for me that completing this restoration was a very worthwhile project to others as well. Attending the 50th V.C.C.A. Anniversary meet in Flint, Michigan July 2011 sure was quite an event! The truck has appeared in two calendars and has been featured in the V.C.C.A.’s Generator and Distributor monthly magazine. A newspaper article was also written on it in the Mineral County Independent-News. The “Heartbeat of America” has come back to life and lives again, 63 years after its creation in Oakland, California. At age 50, I see this restored ’48 Chevy truck as a tribute to the rich auto heritage of our great state of Michigan—which has fallen on hard times recently. Like this truck, we will survive to thrive once more some day again.
If you wish to contact Luke, please send him an email at: lstefanovsky@mtpleasant.edzone.net
Tags: 1948, 1948 Chevy Truck, chevrolet, old chevy truck, pickup
Posted in 1940's | No Comments »
Tuesday, November 29th, 2011
1937 GMC T-16 Cab Over Engine
Owner: Gary Witmer
Original Photo Above
In our Feature Truck of the Month series, we try to show the more unusual GM trucks. This is no exception. It falls perfectly into this category.
Purchased new in 1937, this GMC T-16 Cab Over Engine truck has stayed in the same family almost 75 years. Bought in Williamsport, PA by Arthur (Witty) Witmer as a cab and chassis. It soon was changed into the largest and strongest tow truck in the surrounding counties. Its 20,000 pound winch could handle any truck of its day.
Witty hand built the tow bed from steel purchased in town. It became a true one-of-a-kind vehicle. The boom was telescopic and could raise the vehicle being pulled. It looked factory made. The truck was so well built that he had many contracts from over-the-road freight companies to tow their rigs if trouble developed within a 50 mile radius. Nothing in the area could out pull Witty’s GMC.
The 5 Witmer children always remember the big GMC being kept in a building beside the combination family home / Amoco gas station plus repair garage. They grew up during the Great Depression and it was this GMC that provided a little extra income for the large family during such difficult times. This was a time when the family grew strong sharing and working together as a team. Their strong family ties and appreciation of what they had together followed them throughout their lives. Along with all their helping with the service station and repair garage, plus Witty being on call with the GMC tow truck twenty-four hours a day, they survived with the necessities.
Even during WWII when all of Witty’s hired help joined the military, he with the family ran the service station and garage. The big T-16 GMC was the link that provided the family with just a little extra.
The old GMC was retired in the early 1960’s. It had paid its dues. It had received four inline 6 cylinder GMC engines, various clutches, many brake jobs and numerous other repairs that are given to 25 year old work trucks. Of course, the more modern 18 wheelers were so much larger than in the early years. It was more of a chore for the T-16 GMC to pull the largest tractor trailers successfully. It now is stored behind one of Witty’s grandson’s buildings!
And now, the rest of the story! A few years ago one of Witty’s sons, Gary Witmer of Blue Springs, MO noticed a 1:24 scale model of a 1938 GMC T-16 truck on the market. It was made by Danbury Mint in Danbury, CT. It looked so much like dad’s old tow truck! The details were amazing. Of course, the bed was different but the cab and chassis were like the one Gary remembered during his family’s early years in Pennsylvania. As he looked at this new Danbury model the wheels in Gary’s head began to turn. Would it be possible the transform this scale model into a truck like his father used for so many years?
The more he thought about this, the more enthused he became. Yes, it would be a work of love, a tribute to his family and their younger years growing up during the depression and the lean times of WWII.
Gary is more of a perfectionist, just like his father, so the work ahead to build this correct tow truck was not considered impossible. With his memories of the old GMC and the following photos (the family won’t sell it) Gary created the drawings that would be the blueprints for this one-of-a-kind creation.
Small pieces of brass were formed, connected, soldered, and painted into the exact copy of the real thing. He even shortened the frame of the Danbury model.
Gary spent 400 to 450 hours last year to create this Witty GMC T-16. It is truly a work of art and an honor to his family and their strength. It is the reason they survived so well during difficult times.
You can contact Gary Witmer at: glwitty1@aol.com.
Tags: 1937 GMC, 1937 GMC T-16 Cab Over Engine
Posted in 1930's | No Comments »
Monday, October 31st, 2011
Owner: Cecil White, South Africa
We always try to find more unusual GM haulers for our Feature Truck of the Month series. This design of the 1959 Chevrolet 1/2 ton pickup has probably never been seen in the United States. You would need to travel to Africa to find another!
It was made at the GM assembly plant in Port Elizabeth, South Africa as were thousands of others at that time. Because the country of South Africa was influenced by England, their vehicles were and still are all right-hand drive to operate perfectly on their roads.
Our feature truck is owned by Cecil White of Rivonia, South Africa. He is a strong Chevrolet truck enthusiast. He bought this little 1959 two years ago to drive while his 1941 1/2 ton is being given a ground up restoration. Cecil states it is about all original except the paint and upholstery. Its 235 six cylinder engine and three speed column shift operate like new. The 85,500 miles on the speedometer relates to only 1,650 miles per year!
Though much is like the US version, it has several areas that are South Africa only. The stepside bed is a real focal point. The South Africa plant produced them during these years with a ribbed metal bottom and not the wood plank type. How unique to a US truck owner.
The right-hand drive system is always an attention getter in the US. The dash was redesigned by GM as are some of the steering components. No place provided for a radio or a deluxe fresh air heater. The knobs are the same as US but positioned differently.
Cecil made a special comment on not only the bed floor but the tailgate. This South African tailgate has inside chains and a pair of large hinged handles which latch when the gate is closed. What an unusual feature on a US truck this would be when an owner wanted his pickup a little different than original!
Several years ago, it was given new paint but was kept the original Dawn Blue. This is a perfect match for the color of the untouched horn button.
The ID plate remains on the left door post like in the US, but confirms it was assembled in Port Elizabeth, South Africa. Note the left hand column shift. Wouldn’t that make the US brain say “Why are you reaching for the left side to shift?” The clutch and acceleration linkage must be for right-hand drive only. They required some real engineering to accomplish this feat!
Cecil White is always available for questions at: whiteadjust@yebo.co.za
Tags: 1959 Chevrolet 1/2 Ton Pickup
Posted in 1950's | No Comments »
Saturday, October 1st, 2011
Owner: Roger Sorenson
Such a rare 1/2 ton! It was made during the “Great Depression” when new vehicle sales were extremely low. Only a small percentage of the population could buy a new truck or car. About seven years later when our country became involved in World War II, most all vehicle assembly plants were changed to war material production and there was almost no truck and car manufacturing. Pickups like this 1935 just kept being used!
After the war they were mostly worn out and had a very “pre-war” appearance. The large amount of wood that was part of the early cab construction had begun to deteriorate. The non-hydraulic cable operated brakes were ready for some major upgrades. Beds, rear fenders, tires, and mechanicals needed much to bring them to useable standards. Money was in short supply! The popular choice was to try to drive the old truck until it just couldn’t keep going. Then it was usually junked for a popular post-war truck. Financing a new model with more modern upgrades and an updated cab design was often less expensive. Thus, few of these 75 year old trucks remain.
The owner and restorer of this 1935 Chevrolet 1/2 ton is Roger Sorenson of Lacrosse, Wisconsin. He found it in pieces December 1999. The remaining cab wood was not restorable and the mechanicals were locked in place. Even the bed parts were not repairable. It lacked a dash, seats, bumpers, braces, and so many small parts that were lost during the years of disassembly.
Roger considered it his challenge in life to make it like a new 1935. The four years in its restoration consisted of so much research and locating restorable 75 year old GM parts. He became an expert of 1935 Chevy pickups. Older books, the computer, talking to others, and even time spent in a library prepared him with the knowledge to do this intensive restoration. All items except the bed components are original GM, either new or restored used. Bedsides, wood, tailgate, etc. were reproduced as these items were not obtainable in even fair condition.
Finally this labor of love found Roger the owner of a “new” 1935 1/2 ton. It’s like it was at the factory and before it even left the dealership or driven on a 1935 road.
Once completed, it was now time to see if it was done correctly by the most professional judges. The restoration was completed July 2011, just in time for three of the more detailed judging shows in the Midwest. Roger’s little ½ ton scored as follows in the truck class:
July – Vintage Chevrolet Club America; Gundee, MI, received First Junior.
July — Vintage Chevrolet Club America; Flint, MI, received First Senior.
September – Antique Automobile Club of America; Oak Brook, IL, received First Junior.
Quite an accomplishment for the first three months out. In each show Roger received the highest award available for a first timer!
Jim Carter’s Truck Parts is proud to have this rare original pickup as our feature truck for October 2011. In our 30 years we have not had the opportunity to find a 1934-36 high cab Chevrolet truck in this new condition. Roger states he will be happy to help anyone with their technical questions in the restoration of their early Chevrolet truck. You may contact him at s5secret@aol.com.
Tags: 1935 Chevy 1/2 ton
Posted in 1930's | No Comments »
Wednesday, September 7th, 2011
Owner: Pat Jackson
It’s mid 1954 and there is a growing segment of the US that for the first time has some disposable income.
This was part of a post Korean War boom that had never been seen before. General Motors recognized this. More automotive options that were available were selling well!
Thus, a relative inexpensive gamble was made by the Chevrolet truck division of GM. Just maybe some light truck buyers would prefer a pickup with most accessories as standard equipment. For an extra cost you could receive a package of accessories even though they had nothing to do with the work ability of the pickup.
This gave birth to Chevrolet’s Deluxe pickup truck in mid-year 1954. On this pickup, you didn’t order specific accessories. The appearance items all came standard for one price! The new Deluxe pickups are not shown in most 1954 Chevrolet truck brochures. They were introduced in mid-year, long after the dealer brochures were printed for the beginning of the 1954 truck year.
Pat Jackson of Johnstown, Ohio found one of these Deluxe 1954 pickups in a central Texas ad about 2004. He trailered it back over 1,000 miles and thought it would be great to totally restore a pure 1954 Deluxe. Most all was there. It just had been exposed to almost 60 years of weather and regular use. It would be like assembling a big model kit but each part would be carefully restored to be just like it come from the factory. No exceptions. It would even have the correct black painted bedwood. Unfortunately, he later discovered much rust and bondo in the cab but was too late to turn back. Patch panels would be needed.
Chevrolet and Pat Jackson’s Deluxe 1954 pickup includes item that were usually extra cost such as; a chrome grill, stainless steel windshield and side window trim, a right side sunvisor , right taillight, chrome bumpers, and right arm rest.
Only the Deluxe package included the following and are now on this 1954: cloth seat inserts, lower body color on the running boards, a different color interior, matching door panels and headliner, interior color steering wheel and column. One very difficult to find item in this Deluxe package is the colored floor mat. It has not been found. This will be a long hunt but Pat is always on the lookout!
Several Chevrolet options on this truck (not part of the Deluxe package) you could order from the factory during production include side mount spare tire, Shell White cab top, and 4 speed transmission.
Pat was also able to find a few additional accessories that were still extra cost beyond the Deluxe package. Included are the dealer installed fresh air heater, eagle hood ornament, wheel rings, bumper guards, and dash mounted clock.
The photos show the finished product. Pat has a new nearly 60 year old Chevrolet Ocean Green Deluxe ½ ton. Of course, they always take much longer to restore that we expect. This took six years of evenings (2,200 hours) to complete!
His feeling of self satisfaction and pride has made it all seem worthwhile. Pat has begun taking it to various auto and truck shows! If you’d like to contact Pat, please send an email to red38@embarqmail.com.
Photos by Steve Stoll.
Tags: 1954
Posted in 1950's | No Comments »
Wednesday, August 3rd, 2011
Owner: Pat O’Brien
This rare little ½ ton survived its 75 years mostly because it stayed with one family; it probably never ventured beyond the city limits, and was used mostly by a mechanic that lived in an area of dry air that discouraged metal rust. For the trucks first two years, it was driven by Virginia Swaim to high school each day in Prescott, Arizona. After graduation her father used it as a shop truck in his auto repair business until he retired. Then, Virginia kept it mostly stored in a backyard garage until she passed away in 2002.
The new owner and restorer is Pat O’Brien also of Prescott, Arizona. He discovered it in the same closed garage where it had spent all of its later years. Virginia sold it to Pat several years after he discovered it by accident as he drove by the garage door that was open for a few minutes. Maybe this second ownership was meant to be! Pat was even given the pickups entire history in receipts from the day it was purchased. A box of so many receipts; from tires, gasoline, batteries, radiator hoses, and any other little repairs that needed during so many years.
Of course after all those years as a shop truck and many more sitting in the daughters garage, it was in need of so much more than a surface cleanup. Pat was ready for this challenge. His goal was to have his 1936 look bone stock on the outside with a change to most of the running gears that only the more knowledgeable truck person would recognize. Keeping an inline six cylinder was a must! He added a 292, the larger of the 1963 through 1972 design. The 4 speed was replaced with a Chevy car full synchronized floor shift 4 speed from the 1960′s. This floor shift system was almost a natural for the 1936 pickup.
The differential rear end was a great find. Removed from a 4 x 4 S-10 pickup, it matches the original 6 bolt wheel pattern and the distance between the rear wheels is just right for this 1936 ½ ton. Pat only moved the axle saddles slightly to the side and the original 1 ¾ wide rear leaf springs connected perfectly!
Keeping the 1936 front axle was important. He wanted it to keep the non-lowered original appearance. The front end difference is the hidden 6 bolt disc brake system fitted to his 1936 axle. Yes, the original 1936 lever action shock absorbers were rebuilt. They really are an excellent shock – just expensive!
The real creation was keeping the new dual chambered master cylinder under the floor between the original clutch and brake pedals. Most people give up here on 1936-46 brake modifications and attach swing pedals to the firewall. Not Pat! He did it like the 1936 design. A bracket to support the pedals was attached to the transmission case much like GM did it. The opposite bracket on the original frame rail could then be utilized with the pedal shaft as from the factory. Even the hand brake lever is attached to the newer 4 speed transmission like it was in 1936. It comes through the floor in the correct position.
The 6 hole wire wheels are another eye catcher. To keep it like GM made it, Pat found these new US handmade wires to look original. Not cheap! They really help it keep its 1936 look and hold the radial tires well at any speed.
Pat O’Brien has created a total package that is one of a kind. We call it his little original speed machine! No, we didn’t say inexpensive. People are drawn to it at car shows or just moving in traffic. Virginia Swaim and her father would be proud!!
To contact Pat, email at: professorpat@hotmail.com
Tags: 1/2 ton, chevrolet, half ton, old chevy truck, pickup
Posted in 1930's | No Comments »
Wednesday, July 6th, 2011
Owners: Scott and Betty Golding of Stratton, Nebraska
Is this the rare of the rare?
Just when you think they were all gone, up comes a real Canopy Express of the 1939-46 body design.
Our ‘Feature Truck of the Month’ section usually shows restored GM trucks, but we just had to show this almost forgotten body style even though it is not restored. We might call this 1/2 ton Canopy Express a ‘Barn Fresh 1942′
It is owned by Scott and Betty Golding of Stratton, Nebraska. They found it near Scott City, Kansas, a small town in the far northwest part of the state. Here the ground is flat and the air is dry. Thus, body rust is usually not a problem and metal is preserved with the low humidity. It has saved this 65 year old and it will now be seen by future generations.
Scott states that there were 182 Canopy Express trucks built in 1942. Therefore, we suspect the survival rate of this year is less than five. The limited production in 1942 was due to most assembly plants starting to be used to make war materials after the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. The Canopy Express had a limited market and with the factories stopping production early, the 182 production number is understandable. Scott and Betty’s Canopy Express still has a chrome grill which relates to the time before the war shortages.
Though the original black paint is mostly gone from the summer sun, the metal condition shows a very restorable vehicle. Even the full wood divider is still behind the front seat. This divider with window was necessary for rear vision as well as to allow passengers more comfort in cold weather when the small dealer installed heater was used. The wood planks in the bed are tired, but still remain in place. The roll up canvas curtains were usually gone before the tenth year. Of course, there is no evidence now they even existed.
The Golding’s should have some good luck with a future restoration as the rare body sets on a 1/2 ton pickup frame. The parts from the door forward are also the same as a pickup truck. It is the body restoration that might give some problems because the tailgate is lost. That will take a real search.
Why did the Canopy Express exist?
In another era of our country’s history (1920′s through 1950′s) extra money was limited. Those with some disposable income bought one family car. The man of the house drove it to work and the wife stayed at home with the children. During World War II, the husbands were often in the military overseas. Therefore, retail stores realized to keep sales or even stay in business; they had to bring their products to the neighborhoods. The Canopy Express filled that need. They were excellent for carrying and displaying produce and related groceries. Display trays of food products were taken to the neighborhoods. Probably a bell told home owners that the grocery truck was coming. Even a scale for weighing produce could be attached to an arm extending from the body. The Canopy Express canvas sides were easily raised or lowered depending on the weather or when back at the store at the end of the day. Of course, laundry, bakery and dairy products were also delivered to neighborhoods but this required a different size vehicle. That is another story!
Scott and Betty’s Canopy Express still has the 216 six cylinder engine. Most important is its 4 speed transmission. This allowed the Canopy Express to move very slowly in crowded apartment neighborhoods while ringing the hand-pulled bell.
If you would like to contact Scott and Betty, send email to scottandbetty@hotmail.com.
Can anyone help Scott and Betty find a 1939-46 Canopy Express tailgate?
Tags: 1/2 ton, half ton, pickup
Posted in 1940's | Comments Off
Wednesday, June 1st, 2011
Owner: Dirk Spence
A magic show unlike anything you’ve ever seen! Equally important to GM truck people is that all of this has been totally transformed on a 1945 Chevrolet 1 1/2 ton truck.
The truck owner and professional magician is Dirk Spence of Tinley, Illinois (a suburb of Chicago). It all began in 1980 when Dirk was given a dilapidated 1945 Chevy truck with a ruined engine, broken glass, and four flat tires. Since his youth, Dan had a strong interest in magic and with this truck, he quickly envisioned a traveling magic show that would set him apart from all others.
Once completed, this unique, self-contained 1945 Chevrolet ˜Magic House™ contains sound, lights, and a one-of-a-kind museum. Dirk has even rigged his truck to spit flames when he fires up the engine- just for added effect. His one hour magic show has been in the Chicago area for many years.
This has been quite a project considering the truck only has a 134″ wheel-base. Audiences love Dirk’s magic wagon because it is a touch of old Vaudeville with a splash of 1990′s humor. Dirk has definitely found a niche that draws “oohs and ahhs” when he arrives in his in his gypsy green truck with wood shingle sides at festivals, corporate picnics, and schools.
If you would like to contact Dirk or experience “Mr. D’s Magic and Illusion Show”, please call 708.532.0827 or visit his website at www.mrdsmagicshow.com.
Tags: 1945, chevrolet, old chevy truck, pickup
Posted in 1940's | Comments Off
Monday, May 2nd, 2011
Owner: John Thompson
This 1946 Chevy short bed from Pittsburg, Kansas, may look stock, however, it’s anything but! It is a blend of the character of the pre-war vehicles mixed with today’s technology. When I bought the truck it was almost all stock but it was in pieces strewn between 3 garage stalls. The truck is all steel and had virtually no rust on any of the body panels, but it was missing almost every trim, handle, lamp, chrome, interior, etc. Thank goodness for Jim Carter catalogs! The build began in January of 2008 and was completed in June of 2010. Modifications include the front suspension and frame rails from a 1970 Chevelle giving the truck independent front suspension, power steering, power disc brakes, sway bar, etc. The engine, transmission, rear differential, fuel tank, gauge cluster, seats, and more are all from a 1995 Camaro Z28. Several thousand hours went into the build with a lot of custom work including shaved drip rails, smoothed and reshaped lower grille panel, shaved front turn signals, rear roll pan, fuel tank relocated behind the rear axle and fuel door added to the left rear fender, custom door panels, console (with cupholders), customized yet original looking dash panel, and many other subtle mods. The paint finish is Dupont base coat/clearcoat and the interior is finished with genuine leather.
Other features include: power steering with tilt column, Hotrod Air Conditioning system, power windows, keyless power locks, 8-way power driver seat, 4 wheel disc brakes, rear air shocks, in-dash JVC with DVD player, power antenna, billet & leather steering wheel, composite headlights with integral turn signals, 3rd brake light, Haywire engine management and body wiring harnesses (all wiring was soldered and heat shrink wrapped), 17 inch aluminum wheels, one-piece V-glass windshield, billet drivers wiper, dual electric fans that turn on at 185o or when the a/c is on, and more. The interior was lined with Dynamat before finished and features full instrumentation including tachometer, and seatbelts. The bed is white oak with 10 coats of varnish.
Tags: 1946, chevrolet, old chevy truck
Posted in 1940's | Comments Off
Wednesday, March 30th, 2011
Year/Make 1953 Chevrolet
Owner: Dave and Pat Moore
This month’s feature truck is a 1953 Chevy ½ ton by Dave and Pat Moore of
Kansas City, KS. Dave is our company technical advisor and talks to hundreds of
people each week helping with the many questions that come his way.
Dave is a ‘hands-on’ person and has personally done repairs and upgrades on
many mid-50′s GM trucks. His own pickup is a prime example. He and
his wife, Pat, have owned this little ½ ton 43 years (is that a record?) and
have continued to add upgrades over the years. It is now better than ever
and ready for another 43 years
It all began in 1968, when Dave traded a 1961 Chevy “409″ Impala for this
1953 pickup. It had an Oldsmobile drivetrain and it became a driver for
his wife, Pat for several months. While talking to Dave about this ½ ton,
he recalled the many mechanical changes in the 43 years. This has included
5 engines, 7 transmissions, and 5 rear ends. It is now in the last stages
of its current frame off upgrade.
Dave actually bought a complete, not wrecked, 1986, C-4 Corvette several
years ago to get straight suspension parts for this upgrade including the total
front end and rear end. A 700R4 transmission from an Astro Van and has
been rebuilt. The engine is a ’93 350c.i. Chevy crate motor using Jim’s
motor and trans. mounts. The body work and custom paint was done in
’97 and still looks great! Two other major changes have been the addition
of a powder coated 1954 frame and the deeper 1954 bed that matches these lower
frame rails. The truck is so dependable that Dave and Pat have been part
of the “Long Haul Gang” on the Hot Rod Power Tour 7 times where it has averaged
22.12mpg.
In the first photo, note the new Peterbilt tractor beside Dave and Pat’s
1953. The owner said surprise me on the paint; Clint (Dave’s son) who
works selling new Peterbilt’s had the factory paint the truck the same special
green! If you would like to contact Dave about his 1953, his email
address is dmoore5356@aol.com
Tags: 1/2 ton, 1953, 1953 Chevrolet 1/2 ton pickup, chevrolet, old chevy truck
Posted in 1950's | Comments Off
Tuesday, February 22nd, 2011
Year/Make 1953 Chevrolet
Owner: Richard & Lorie Baranek
On my side of the story! from “Broadway Bob” at Auto Rehab. It was a project that took almost 1 1/2 years to complete. I started working on it from in a small 20×20 garage attached to my house . I was in the process of building a new 40×50 garage ! Most of the first few months were doing the work on it in my driveway, including disassembly, paint stripping, metal finishing, some bodywork and painting parts, etc. Due to no room in garage for the whole truck, it was quite a juggling show. The truck was in good restorable condition and thanks to Jim Carter parts! the job was possible to complete with new replacement parts. It was a complete frame off restoration. I reconditioned most of the parts that were in good shape and replaced everything that wasn’t. I made parts that weren’t available yet !! Every nut, bolt, screw, was reconditioned or replaced if bad ! I think it was my most enjoyable restoration in the past 5 years. Everything was taken apart, refinished and reassembled back to new. I was amazed at the quality of the vehicle construction when new . GM did an excellent job on design of this model truck. I think “that made it a thrill to work on”!! it was simple and effective, not cluttered like cars today!!
This truck was bought back in 1955 by the Baranek family in Crivitz Wis. This is the third generation of Baranek’s to own it and it has been in the family for 50 years along with the history and war stories told by son, grandson & great grandson, The truck was in good restorable condition considering it spent all its life in Wisconsin. I have had it for 1 1/2 years doing an extensive restoration of the vehicle and it was a pure joy to work on. It is currently owned by Richard & Lorie Baranek of Crivitz, Wisconsin, who are the 3rd generation owners of this restored 1953 Chevrolet 3600.
Submitted by Bob Thompson
Auto Rehab & Restoration
Wabeno, Wisconsin.
Additional comments from the owners:
Sorry we haven’t gotten back to you in so long. We have a daughter getting married tomorrow so things have been a little hectic. Our truck is a 53 Chevy I remember riding in it with my grandfather as a chilled. When my grandfather passed away the truck was handed down to my uncle who took over the farm . I thought he sold the truck until one day I discovered it in his barn and there it was sitting for 45 years. Now my uncle is 80 years old and it took me a whole year to try to convince him to let me buy it from him. I bought the truck for 100.00 dollars we got it running and used it just to bomb around in the back 40. After we were all done having fun the truck sat in the shed for 3 years and we finally found Bob to restore it. He worked on that truck for 2 years, then we went to see it. It was immaculate we’ve never seen something more beautiful. Bob did a great job on the truck!!!!!
Rich and Lorie written by son (Brad)
Tags: 1953, 1953 Chevrolet, chevrolet, old chevy truck, pickup
Posted in 1950's | Comments Off
Monday, February 14th, 2011
WILLY THE 36 CHEVY
I found my 36 Chevy pickup in the 1980′s on highway 41 somewhere south of Chicago. It was running but had a big crack in the block, so to drive it I had to carry a bucket of water with me.
My love of the 36 pickup goes back to 1948 when I was four and my dad (just home from the Navy and WW2) was working as a tenant farmer in east central Illinois. The owner of the farm had a 1936 Chevy pickup which my dad was allowed to drive back and forth from our house to the main farm. It was the “first” pickup I remember riding in and the fascination I had for that old truck stayed with me. Needles to say, when I saw old “Willy” (named after my dad) sitting ‘for sale’ along Hwy 41 many years later, I had to have him.
At that time I lived in Terre Haute, Indiana and had a concrete block company and an excavating business. My intention from the beginning was to restore old “Willy”. However as some of you “old timers” might remember, the early 80′s were tough years for the building industry and a lot of old “Willy” projects got delayed.
In 1986 I packed up my family, a few pieces of equipment, old “Willy” and moved to the Charlotte, NC area. The economy was much better there and by 1988 I started an auto detail and wreck recovery business. Old “Willy” finally was getting some attention. When the work crew had some extra time, we took old “Willy” to the frame.
Another hick-up in the 1989 economy put the project back on hold and old “Willy” was destined to become a “pile of parts”. We had to shut the shop down. A sluggish economy, a divorce and two daughters in college paved the way for old “Willy” to remain a pile of parts for several years.
Not until 1999 did I seriously get back on the project. All the chassis parts were examined and many were rebuilt. New brake lines were installed, king pins, bushings, spring pins; any part worn was replaced. The passing of time and moving things around caused a number of parts to get lost. We found a parts truck in Wisconsin and had it shipped to North Carolina. This provided an engine, transmission and a few other needed chassis parts.
In 2005 I contracted with a small paint and body shop to start painting the sheet metal and body parts. There were some real challenges to return a fairly rough and rugged bed, cab, fenders, doors, hood, etc. to “like new” condition.
In 2009 I was finally able to again open my own shop and begin the reassembly of old “Willy”. After all those years “Willy” was about to be complete. I thank our crew, Chuck (manager), Whit (mechanic) and Steven (painter) for doing a super job getting our beautiful ’36 in show condition.
We also want to thank Jim Carter’s Old Chevy Trucks for helping us with several technical questions we had in the reassembly. We were able to get a number of new and used parts from the Jim Carter catalog.
PS: Over all these years, old “Willy” has finally successfully evolved from a truck in a box to a beauty back on the highway of pride.
Tags: 1/2 ton, 1936, 1936 Chevrolet 1/2 ton Pickup, chevrolet, half ton, pickup
Posted in 1930's | Comments Off
Monday, February 14th, 2011
Owner: Jim Brallier
The total restoration of this 1950 Chevrolet Deluxe 1/2 ton came to be because of a “match made in heaven”. Jim Brallier of Clearville, PA has this special truck because several things came together just right. He always had a desire to restore an older truck. He was retired after a full career specializing in vehicle mechanical repair and welding. His son is a professional auto body repairman and painter. There was now extra time to peruse his long dream and all came together at the right time. Jim discovered this factory deluxe pickup (with all the trim) only 60 miles away in the rolling hills of South central Pennsylvania. This was known for coal mining many years ago and for some reason the little truck had been stored in a garage 30 years ago and appeared related to the coal mining business in this area. The garage saved it from years of bad weather however the first 20 years of being in the past coal mining area was not kind to the truck and 65 years of summer humidity, even in storage, added to major body rust. But was a more rare deluxe pickup with the extra rear corner windows! It took Jim Brallier no time to know this was to be the truck he had planned for during his many past working years. It was too deteriorated not to be disassembled down to the frame rails. The motor was locked after its 30 year storage and most body panels were showing rust holes.
Jim knew this would be a challenge but he refused to stop when all the pieces were removed. It would have then only been salvage scrap metal! He was retired so this 1 1/2 year project was his challenge. His years as a mechanic and welder could now be placed again to good use on this otherwise total loss rusted little pickup (he even replaced the outer door skins where he discovered an interesting ink pen stored inside*). The attached photos verify the pure deluxe features of this top of the line 5 window model. The Cape Maroon color is correct for 1950. Stainless window trim, chrome grill and bumpers. Jim added chrome mirror arms and taillights. The deeper 6 bolt wheels are about 1969 Blazer that allow for radial tires. Polished stainless steel strips greatly add to the appearance of the 6 foot bed. The results are now appreciated by all that see it. Two local car shows and two trophies! AND THEN IT HAPPENED! Jim heard about a distant 1952 1/2 ton at the right price. Maybe his experience with his 1950 would make this a much easier second project to be a daily driver. (don’t these old Chevy trucks get in our blood!) The price was so good. It was in an old storage garage and deeply covered with everything on the cab top and along and in the bed. Without seeing little more than the truck front and no accessibility to the side or cab, Jim still bought it. The next week he was back with his trailer and removing the storage to gain access and then hauled it home. Once in his garage the overall condition check was made. What is that? What’s that box in the drive line behind the three speed transmission? It certainly was not like his 1950. He cleaned the grease and dirt from a sheet metal plate on the case. It was a Truckstell Overdrive! Even the operating cable under the dash was there. What a find! Almost unheard of in today’s world and Jim now owned one. Of course, he had to have it in his 1950. This changeover project was the most exciting in all his restoration. To have this aftermarket option in his show truck would be the ultimate accessory. He totally disassembled the unit and it required only new grease seals. Its problem had been a frozen under dash control cable. The outer metal wire covering and non-metal insulation tube were replaced. The actual inter cable was still ok. The total drive shaft assembly was exchanged with his 1950. It was always necessary to shorten the closed drive shaft torque tube system in the early years to make room for the over-drive gear box. The differential ring and pinion gears came out together but no trade was needed in axle housing, axles or brake system. Jim totally restored the overdrive including cleaning the Truckstell ID plate and painting the case the original orange color found in a few spots. This overdrive has changed his 1950\’s total driving personality! The little 216 engine now cruises 60 MPH on the highway instead of 45 MPH on the slower country roads. The overdrive can be used in all 3 gears and has a “hill holding” feature. It doesn’t roll backwards when starting on a slope at stop signs. Jim feels this is the best thing one can add to a 1/2 ton. Why did GM never offer this option in the early years? It appears the Truckstell Overdrive #101 was available for the Chevrolet passenger cars and 3 speed 1/2 ton pickups from about 1946 through 1955. By then Chevrolet offered their own optional Borg-Warner overdrive with the introduction of the open-drive shaft system. Click below to see the original sales literature offered by Truckstell in the late 1940′s. Truckstell Brochure* When Jim removed the door skin for replacement, he found an ink pen in the bottom. It was lettered U.A.W. United Auto Workers. No doubt, it was placed in the door by an assembly worker during assembly in 1950. this is his souvenir of the restoration. NOTE: If you have an interest in Truckstells, we found another person with a collection and most related literature. Contact KB at his email address telekenfun@ak.net.
It was too deteriorated not to be disassembled down to the frame rails. The motor was locked after its 30 year storage and most body panels were showing rust holes. Jim knew this would be a challenge but he refused to stop when all the pieces were removed. It would have then only been salvage scrap metal! He was retired so this 1 1/2 year project was his challenge. His years as a mechanic and welder could now be placed again to good use on this otherwise total loss rusted little pickup (he even replaced the outer door skins where he discovered an interesting ink pen stored inside*). The attached photos verify the pure deluxe features of this top of the line 5 window model. The Cape Maroon color is correct for 1950. Stainless window trim, chrome grill and bumpers. Jim added chrome mirror arms and taillights. The deeper 6 bolt wheels are about 1969 Blazer that allow for radial tires. Polished stainless steel strips greatly add to the appearance of the 6 foot bed. The results are now appreciated by all that see it. Two local car shows and two trophies! AND THEN IT HAPPENED! Jim heard about a distant 1952 1/2 ton at the right price. Maybe his experience with his 1950 would make this a much easier second project to be a daily driver. (don’t these old Chevy trucks get in our blood!) The price was so good. It was in an old storage garage and deeply covered with everything on the cab top and along and in the bed. Without seeing little more than the truck front and no accessibility to the side or cab, Jim still bought it. The next week he was back with his trailer and removing the storage to gain access and then hauled it home. Once in his garage the overall condition check was made. What is that? What’s that box in the drive line behind the three speed transmission? It certainly was not like his 1950. He cleaned the grease and dirt from a sheet metal plate on the case. It was a Truckstell Overdrive! Even the operating cable under the dash was there. What a find! Almost unheard of in today’s world and Jim now owned one. Of course, he had to have it in his 1950. This changeover project was the most exciting in all his restoration. To have this aftermarket option in his show truck would be the ultimate accessory. He totally disassembled the unit and it required only new grease seals. Its problem had been a frozen under dash control cable. The outer metal wire covering and non-metal insulation tube were replaced. The actual inter cable was still ok. The total drive shaft assembly was exchanged with his 1950. It was always necessary to shorten the closed drive shaft torque tube system in the early years to make room for the over-drive gear box. The differential ring and pinion gears came out together but no trade was needed in axle housing, axles or brake system. Jim totally restored the overdrive including cleaning the Truckstell ID plate and painting the case the original orange color found in a few spots.
This overdrive has changed his 1950′s total driving personality! The little 216 engine now cruises 60 MPH on the highway instead of 45 MPH on the slower country roads. The overdrive can be used in all 3 gears and has a “hill holding” feature. It doesn’t roll backwards when starting on a slope at stop signs. Jim feels this is the best thing one can add to a 1/2 ton. Why did GM never offer this option in the early years? It appears the Truckstell Overdrive #101 was available for the Chevrolet passenger cars and 3 speed 1/2 ton pickups from about 1946 through 1955. By then Chevrolet offered their own optional Borg-Warner overdrive with the introduction of the open-drive shaft system. Click here to see the original sales literature offered by Truckstell in the late 1940′s. Truckstell Brochure\n\n* When Jim removed the door skin for replacement, he found an ink pen in the bottom. It was lettered U.A.W. United Auto Workers. No doubt, it was placed in the door by an assembly worker during assembly in 1950. this is his souvenir of the restoration.
Tags: 1950 Chevy Truck, half ton, old chevy truck, pickup
Posted in 1950's | No Comments »
Wednesday, December 1st, 2010
Owner: Jan van Bohemen
We just couldn’t resist placing this approximately 1956 Opel as this month’s feature truck. Did you actually think General Motors discarded the famous Advance Design 1947-55 truck cab tooling? To get a little more use of the tooling, it was modified in the late 1950′s as a German Opel truck. Remember the small Opel car imported in the 1960′s and sold in Buick dealerships? They displayed the same lightning bolt emblem as the trucks.
Look closely at this pickup. It has Advance Design all over it!
Its owner is Jan van Bohemen in Germany. It started as a larger work truck, however he wanted a pickup so he made the bed and rear fenders to get the look he wanted. Very impressive!
For your information…more data on the later-use of the Advanced Design Tooling. Not only did they use this tooling in Europe but it was an assembly line produced truck in Brazil. Click here to see Brazil’s version.
Tags: 1956, advance design, gmc, old chevy truck, opel
Posted in 1950's | No Comments »
Monday, November 1st, 2010
Owner: Dennis Odell
This month we feature a pick up that is used just the way GM intended. It is still a work truck and at 65 years old it is used daily in the greater Kansas City, Missouri, area. The owner is
Dennis Odell of Independence, MO. The truck is a 1946 Chevrolet half ton.
Dennis now stays busier than on prior career job with the telephone company. He can repair most anything ( including his 46) and thus is a natural with home repairs. His little half ton is his daily work truck and hauls materials and himself for his many remodeling projects.
Dennis found it for sale 25 years ago beside a country road at the edge of town and had to have it! He then personally did the restoration including the painting. Dennis said he made it above average but not for shows. After all, he planned on driving it to work daily. About 12 years ago he retired and now he and his 46 keep busier than past full time job.
The drive train is a 1977 250 cylinder engine with a modern floor shift 3 speed and a 1955-56 Nomad rear end. All wheels are 5 bolt. An under dash radio is his entertainment and the heater is from a 1950 car. The body is all GM as are the seats, grill, bumpers, and bedstrips. Yes, he did replace the bedwood.
With it being used so often in all its years Dennis says it has to have over 250 thousand miles and is still going strong!!
Tags: 1946, chevrolet, old chevy truck
Posted in 1940's | No Comments »
Friday, October 1st, 2010
Year/Make 1955 Chevrolet NAPCO Suburban
Owner: George VanOrden
During the recent Mid-West All Truck National’s in Riverside, Missouri, a very special truck was on display. It had been brought to the show in an enclosed trailer from Virginia.The owner is George VanOrden of Fulks Run, Virginia and the vehicle is a 1955 Chevrolet Suburban with a NAPCO 4×4 system. His personal history, leading to this restored Suburban, is a story by itself. He spent his youth in this mountain section of Virginia only 10 miles from his current home. The interest in 4×4 trucks was early in life as these type trucks were regularly seen on the rough mountain roads in his county. It is not surprising George decided to restore a 4×4 after his retirement after 20 years in the U.S. Marines.
The first candidate he bought to restore was a late 50′s GM 4×4 pickup. His high hopes slowly dropped as his wife explained “Where will you put the whole family in a truck cab as the children grow?”
A new hunt began for a 4×4 Suburban which would just “fill the bill” for a medium size family hauler. This want proved a very difficult task. Few 4×4 Suburbans were sold in the 1950′s and most were later junked or used beyond restoration by off road owners.
A year of patience and a continued search finally met success. George’s wife found an ad from a Colorado owner that described a very used but not abused 1955 Suburban 4×4. It was first owned by the Colorado Forest Service and George was to become its third private owner. Rust was limited and all mechanicals could be rebuilt or replaced.
Once back in Virginia, the surface restoration began but soon went further than new paint and a clean-up. Each part to be restored opened even deeper needs. Suddenly, George was down to the frame rails. After all, with whole family to ride in the Suburban, he needed no future problems.
A nearby professional restoration shop was hired to lift the body from the frame and restore the sheet metal. George took the chassis home. That would be his project, however the 4×4 system proved to be a real challenge. As he slowly found new NAPCO parts to make the system perfect, the remainder of the chassis needed equal treatment. Then it became a must to make it all new! He just could not go this far and not make it all perfect.
The restoration shop was contacted, “Don’t just fix the dents and paint the body. I want it new!”. Compromises were not acceptable. George’s passion became research on what the 1955 was like the day it left the Chevrolet factory. Hours of collecting literature, talking to collectors, and using his computer brought out the answers and this was followed “to the letter”. There was no turning back. The Suburban was in hundreds of pieces. Even the grain, color, and seams of the new seat material came from the samples that was on the original seat upholstery.
A set of 5 bias ply 17.5 tires was the real challenge (does any factory still make them?). George located a truck for sale that had been in storage many, many years. It had new tires with even the dimples on the tread. He bought the truck just to get the tires.
George rebuilt the Suburban’s original 235 cubic inch six cylinder engine. All parts had to be new GM. Another hunt. The differential and 4 speed transmission received the same treatment.
The above is the “tip of the iceberg” of what George did to create a new 1955 Chevrolet Suburban. The restoration time was three years, completed September 2008. It is now how it came from the factory: 235 engine, 4 speed, fresh air heater, no radio, dealer added turn signals and the NAPCO installed 4×4. Ocean green paint was found under the mirror arms so George knew the correct color.
A new enclosed car trailer was a necessity. (Even more money in the project!) As a member of the Antique Auto Club of America -AACA, George thought he would see how the Suburban would do in serious judging competition. It started in the world famous Hershey PA. Fall Show. Surprise, it received a “Junior” award, the highest for a first timer. The next spring, it won the “Senior” award at the Charlotte, NC AACA show. The same year it was given a second at the AACA “Grand Nationals” in Newburn, NC.
George’s finished product has certainly attracted the attention of even the most qualified judges. He and his Suburban can’t receive honors much higher than this!
And what happened to the thought of having a clean Suburban for the family? Well, that will be the next project.
Note: Only if you are a real “die hard” NAPCO fan should you read this part of our month’s feature truck.
The 4×4 system was made by the Northwestern Auto Parts Co. of Minneapolis, MN. -NAPCO-. Of the many 4×4 add-on companies at that time, this was by far the most popular. Most medium size hill and mountain country cities had a NAPCO dealer. (GM’s factory assembled 4×4 trucks were not available until 1957).
George’s NAPCO was the last year for the Rockwell transfer case (pumpkin on the left of center). By 1956 NAPCO transfer case was made by Spicer (pumpkin on the right of center).
The Chevrolet GMC 1/2 tons were never given a 4×4 prior to 1955. Their closed drive shaft prevented a position for a transfer case. Thus, NAPCO in the early models began with a 3/4 ton which had enough of the drive shaft open to make room for this case.
When GM introduced the open drive shaft 1/2 ton in 1955, NAPCO jumped at the opportunity to offer a 4×4 for the light trucks. A redesigned 1/2 ton NAPCO system was not ready until 1956 and would include the Spicer transfer case. Therefore, the 1955 1/2 ton like George’s Suburban, plus 1/2 ton pickups were provided with the currently used 3/4 ton front end with 8 bolt wheels but internally used the 1/2 ton ring and pinion. This gave the higher speed 1/2 ton, 3.90 ratio. On the rear, 6 bolt axle spacers adapters allowed 8 bolt wheels to match the front. Very unusual but it got NAPCO quickly into the 1/2 ton 4×4 market. The 1955 1/2 ton NAPCO’s are one year only design. They really stand all with their 17.5 tires that were actually used on most 3/4 tons.
Tags: 1955, chevrolet, napco 4x4 system, old chevy truck, suburban
Posted in 1950's | No Comments »
Wednesday, September 1st, 2010
Year/Make 1948 Chevrolet Suburban
Owner: Jerry Rivers
It’s a great day for a car show! This is one of those rare Saturday cruise shows when the temperature, a light breeze, and no rain make it a picture perfect day. A few hundred vehicles, antique and street rods, fill the parking spots gather around the old city square.
The display overflow extends onto connecting side streets. Vehicle owners have gathered to enjoy a common interest, a love of special interest and restored cars and trucks.
As the day continues spectators are outnumbering the vehicle owners 3 to 1 as they stroll among the special cars of all early ages and marquis. However, it is obvious that one vehicle is attracting more than the usual passing interest. A constant flow of onlookers are staring at a large blue car or is it a truck. We wait for a place to get a better view of this “large people hauler”. It’s a beautifully rebuilt 1948 Chevrolet Suburban! The color, workmanship and engine bring most people to a stop as they are walking by this display.
The owner is Jerry Rivers of Independence, Missouri. The interest from the crowds prevent our questions but Jerry agrees to allow us a later interview for pictures and questions.
In a week we are at his small antique Chevrolet parts store with all his attention. The more we looked and discovered the truck’s special features, the more it was important to place this vehicle as our monthly truck of the month section.
Jerry bought this Suburban 13 years ago from the original owner in North Missouri. A friend was hunting and noticed the tired body in a back field along a fence row. Rusted out floors, broken glass, and a totaled engine was the package. Jerry saw the great potential plus he had always wanted an old Suburban. He is a retired body man, so to him the challenge was not so threatening. He began the rebuilding after a total disassembly. His parts business requires much time but he allowed himself one night each week for Suburban duties. Thus, thirteen years for restoration! It’s unveiling was June 2010.
He wanted an original appearing 60 year old vehicle but added many special accessories plus additions to make it freeway friendly. Jerry has no concerns about driving a long distance. It’s built as a driver but, of course, it gets extra care as one would with a collector vehicle purchased from a new car dealer.
Jerry provided us two pages of extras he carefully added during the 13 year rebuilding. These are items you may not notice as you view the final product. We list them here as he did for us.
Accessories
- Guide back-up Lamp and Shift Box Switch
- 15″ Wheels
- Wheel Trim Rings
- Bumper Guards
- AM-FM Radio
- Oil Bath Air Cleaner
- Right Hand Rear View Mirror
- Right Arm Rest
- Glare Proof Inside Rear View Mirror
- AC Oil Filter
- Rear Turn Signals
- Guide Traffic Viewer (prism)
- Fulton Outside Sun Visor
- Right Hand Inside Sun visor
- Guide Turn Signal Switch on Steering Column
New Old Stock Parts
- Left Front Fender
- Both Inner Fenders
- Front Lower Grill Baffle
- Core Support
- Hood Emblem
- Complete Hood with Center Strip
- Upper and Lower Hood latch
- Rear Splash Apron
- Front Splash Apron
- Upper Gate Hinges
- Right and Left Latches
- Inside and Outside Door Handles
- Steering Wheel
- Radiator
- Shift Box
- Misc. Mechanical and Suspension parts
Up Grades
- 1954 “261″ Engine
- HEI Electronic Ignition
- Alternator
- All 12 Volt Electronics
- 3.55 Differential (replaces original 4.11)
- Radial Tires
- Tinted Windows
- Custom Rear Lower Tailgate
- Bucket Seats
- YF Carter Lean Burn Carb
- Heavy Duty 10 3/4″ Clutch and Pressure Plate
- Electric Wiper Motor
- Rear Dome Light
- Seat Belts
- Air Conditioning and Heater Combo
- span style=”font-family: Verdana;”>Special Paint Color Combo in Centari Acrylic Enamel
Parts Suppliers
- Jim Carter Classic Truck Parts
- Bowtie Bits Truck Parts
- Tom Myers Truck Parts
We should note three very special extras that make the Suburban even more of a real show stopper.
The Tailgate opens to the side and operates as if GM did it. (This is a Jerry Rivers Creation). No leaning over in the rear just to reach the body.
Its Power Plant is a pure 261 six cylinder from 1954. They were originally in school buses and 2 tons only. It was a drop-in and moves the Suburban easily to 70 mph. (Of course the high speed 3.55 ring and pinion helps too) Many don’t know this 261 engine even existed. It really steps out in today’s traffic!
Cold Air Conditioning? Certainly. The custom made system is for the 1947-53 Chevy truck with a 261 engine. No cutting on the body. Note the concealed two control levers in what was once slots for the original factory radio speaker. Yes, it keeps the large body Suburban comfortable during Missouri days of high humidity and temperatures.
Jerry has had the Suburban completed and at car shows for only three months. Two trophies and so much public interest! It attracts so many he calls it his “Magnet”. His last show required a 400 mile drive. Did he have any mechanical problems? Of course not! He made it to be a new 60 year old Suburban.
 |
 |
 |
 |
| Here He Comes! |
Custom Tailgate |
Accessory Back-Up Light |
Jerry’s Grand Daughters |
 |
 |
 |
 |
| Factory Dash |
Smooth Headliner |
Accessory Taillamp |
Prism |
 |
 |
 |
 |
| 261 Engine |
Power Plant |
A/C Items |
Bucket Seats with New Covering |
 |
 |
 |
 |
| Pickup Dome Light |
New Carpeting |
Interior |
There He Goes! |
Tags: 1948, chevrolet, old chevy truck, suburban
Posted in 1940's | No Comments »
Sunday, August 1st, 2010
Owner: Jim Adams
The owner is Jim Adams of Pleasanton, California! He has carefully rebuilt this 1946 Chevy 1/2 ton as one that would have been seen in the 1950′s. The big difference is that he created it as a high-performance vehicle of 50 years ago during his high school years. For the few that had money in those more difficult times, this is what many wanted to build.
This little 1/2 ton spent its early life in Hayward, CA as a fruit and vegetable delivery truck. Jim, about the fourth owner, bought it six years ago in a storage lot mostly as a cab and chassis. The tired bed nearby had numerous removed parts of questionable value.
At the beginning of the restoration, stock and reproduction parts were not too difficult to find. It was the high performance equipment that was the real challenge. They were gradually found with much time researching.
A few era additions used during the complete rebuilding are: A 3″ dropped front axle, Edmonds water warmed intake manifold, Fenton headers, 1957 Chevy 235 engine with 1/4 race camshaft, chrome valve cover, two Carter YF carbs, and a high speed ring and pinion. Jim went modern on the brakes using disc on the front as well as a vacuum power brake booster under the floor. Even the seats are in a black vinyl roll and pleat design with a correct rubber floor mat.
The completed package is just right., an excellent restoration, early year high performance, and modern stopping ability. If it was in the 1950′s this little pickup would surely not take second place among any 6 cylinder or flathead V-8 cars or trucks.
When in any car and truck show, this truck is the one that gets the crowds! It is so unusual in these days of modern V-8′s and high tech add-ons.
Tags: 1946, chevrolet, old chevy truck
Posted in 1940's | No Comments »
Thursday, July 1st, 2010
Owner: Colin Murphy
| A recently restored 1953 Chevrolet 1/2 ton! This is a perfect example of a “good old truck”, brought back from the dead. The owner is Colin Murphy of Summerset, South Dakota. he had an interest to restore an older GM pickup for years. It all came together when a friend offered Colin this little 1/2 ton that was setting behind a storage building in Cheyenne WY.Because of the dry air in Wyoming, even an older vehicle never in a garage has limited body rust. The picture of when he found his truck, six years ago, shows it disassembled but its solid cab had great potential. Colin says he still found two other pickups to use as parts donors. We might say three made one!
His many, many hours in the evenings paid off. It really turns heads in his town. The original 216 engine, 4 speed transmission, and closed driveshaft rear end, makes it perform just like GM designed. Colin comments are ” I think it is pretty well done, so here it is. After six years and a gazillion dollars, I have a truck that tops out at 50 miles per hour. I have enjoyed working with Jim Carter Truck Parts on this project. Now, all I have to do is find another one…”. |
|
|
Tags: 1/2 ton, 1953 Chevrolet, 1983, chevrolet, half ton, old chevy truck
Posted in 1950's | No Comments »
Tuesday, June 1st, 2010
Owner: Jim Raeder
When it was new, my GMC was a water truck on the Altoona PA fairgrounds. It sat under a big oak tree for many years until the second owner bought it. It didn’t have license plate on it until the 1970′s. The second owner did a basic restoration and painted it in the same colors and scheme as it was when new. He also put two speed GMC rear end in it, shortened it, and made a fifth wheel out of it. I bought it in about 1998 with 12,500 original miles, a gas ration sticker from WWII in the window and the second owner claimed the original tires which at first I didn’t believe but now I think he may be correct. My future plans are to do a more detailed restoration and install a 302 GMC engine and five speed transmission to make it more usable while keeping the original character of the truck. I will keep the tires, engine, trans and rear end so it can be returned to stock. Since I bought the truck I have only come across five of these 38 COE’s. Jim Raeder
Tags: 1938, 1938 GMC COE, cab over engine, gmc, old chevy truck
Posted in 1930's | No Comments »
Saturday, May 1st, 2010
Owner: Roy Asbahr
One of Roy Asbahr’s most special and unique vehicles is a just completed 1949 Chevrolet Suburban. After a 1 1/2 year restoration, it looks showroom new. Roy is a perfectionist in vehicle restoration and this is one of his best yet! The body and paint work was performed by Larry Swiggart.
This Suburban brings special childhood memories to Roy as it is like the 1949 his father bought-same year, color and accessories. It was the family car for many years and was even driven a few times on fishing trips to Canada and the Yukon.
Roy watched for many years for a restorable Suburban that could be made like the original family vehicle. He discovered this Suburban several years ago in Sioux City, Iowa. The prior owner had reached the age of 92. Little had been changed from the factory except a bargain paint job years before. Amazingly it was rock solid, rust free, and only 55,000 original miles.
Nothing was spared in the body off restoration. The factory exterior colors for Chevrolet Suburban’s, 1947-1949 was Channel Green-lower body and Fathom Green- upper body. This is just the colors of Roy’s father’s Suburban when new in 1949.
The seat upholstery is the ‘real thing’. It was carefully removed from the cushions, dyed, given new padding, and then put back in its original place. The seats now look as though they are just out of the factory!
Lucky for Roy the windlace surrounding the two doors was in excellent condition. He very carefully removed it, dyed it the color of the back side (never exposed to daylight) and placed it in its correct position. It appears new and with the unique Suburban only color. No tears or cracks!
The five piece headliner was not torn but had sagged and faded. This too was removed, re-dyed, and contacted to a piece of formica on the back side for strength. All were put in place with a new appearance.
There is gloss black paint on the inner fenders and upper radiator sheet metal. The shine in this area is often debated during a complete restoration. Roy remembers cleaning his father’s new 1949 regularly and has no doubt that it was gloss black, not flat or semi-gloss. However, all other items painted black are semi-flat black.
A final decision was made to add two hidden changes during restoration. To increase the speed on modern highways, Roy replaced the 4.11 ratio ring and pinion with a 3.55 gear ratio. All outside appearance is unchanged, except radial tires.
To also give extra highway speed, Roy installed a 1958 Canadian Pontiac inline 261 six cylinder which has hydraulic lifters and the 848 higher compression head. It is an excellent fit and even uses the same motor mounts. The original 216 valve cover is added on top to give an authentic look and an adapter was used to enable an early style 1954 water pump to be installed. The engine is the correct grey color and even the spark plug wires have the unprotected metal ends.
Little was ignored in this ground up restoration. Dealer installed accessories include fresh air heater, grill guard, radio, and rear turn signals lights, running board step plates and a GM locking gas cap.
This Suburban is an excellent addition to Roy’s fine collection of restored vehicles.
![1949 chevy truck]()
Tags: 1949, chevrolet, old chevy truck, suburban
Posted in 1940's | No Comments »
Thursday, April 1st, 2010
Owner: Udi Cain
I am Udi Cain, a war veteran from Israel. I love the USA and feel that Israel and USA are like one.
I was born in 1949 and loved drawing cars since age almost zero.
I bought a 1949 Ford F1, renewed it and drove it daily until the head of the Tel Aviv museum bagged me to donate it to the “Post Museum” in Tel Aviv museum, as it was used as the first post car in Israel. http://www.eretzmuseum.org.il/main/site/index.php3?page=24
After giving the vehicle to the museum I searched for another nice car to use daily.
I found the 1949 Chevy Panel that someone in the past had opened windows in it to make it function like a suburban and it was red which I didn’t like.
It took few months to renew it, and I’ve ordered many parts from the US through eBay; until I bought few parts from Jim, and here I am.
Tags: 1949, chevrolet, chevy panel, old chevy truck
Posted in 1940's | No Comments »
Monday, March 1st, 2010
Owner: Mike Light
Strange but true! This 1964 Chevy 1/2 ton is a rolling autograph book. Due a patriotic feeling, owner Mike Light of Independence, MO decided to use his primered truck to collect the signatures of war veterans and active military.
He currently has the names personally signed of 151 veterans from WWII through the Iraq conflict. A few businesses help fill in some open spaces. Mike has gathered this data in only three months.
What an eye catcher when you see this truck beside your vehicle at a stop light!
Tags: 1964, chevrolet, old chevy truck
Posted in 1960's | No Comments »
Thursday, February 11th, 2010
During 1972, a unique Chevrolet promotional pickup was introduced for a limited time in 1/2 , 3/4, and 1 ton models. This truck was designated the ‘Highlander’. Unfortunately, it did not have side emblems or related name plates that would cause people to remember this special model. On the actual truck the word Highlander was only listed on the glove box door inside ID sheet.
This vehicle was actually a modified middle series ‘Custom Deluxe’. The horizontal lower side trim has black inserts, not wood grain. The usual ‘Custom Deluxe’ chrome emblems are displayed on the front fenders. As with most of the 1972 GM trucks the dash housing, glove box lid, and door panels do not have the wood grain inserts as on the top of the line Cheyenne Super.
It is the cloth seat inserts that stand out on the Highlander interior. This feature was the special Scottish plaid nylon cloth seat insert material. Four plaid colors were available, depending on the exterior color.
GM used the top of the line 1972 Cheyenne Super seat covering but instead of the hounds tooth inserts substituted this unique Tartan plaid material. The vinyl seat edging, door panels, and seat belts were all parchment no matter the seat or exterior color.
The exterior feature of the Highlander is the attractive stainless wheel covers on the ½ ton. They have no emblem or letters and are specific for this particular model truck. (These actually had been used several years before as the stock 15 inch cover on the 1970 Chevrolet Monte Carlo.) The 3/4 and 1 ton Highlander used hub caps, not wheel covers, that were stampings from the standard base truck.
Actually, the more advertised feature of the Highlander was three pre installed option packages. Chevrolet put together several popular factory options in a base package and reduced the total regular price as much as $260.00. Original equipment (standard on the Highlander package A) were chrome front bumper, upper body moldings, door edge guards, and Below-Eye-Line door mounted mirrors.
Package B included the above items plus turbo hydramatic transmission, power steering and tilt steering column. Package C added the above plus air conditioning and Soft-Ray tinted windows.
In today’s world, Highlanders have been mostly forgotten. Unless you bought one new or located an original piece of sales literature, it is likely that even GM truck lovers were not aware they existed.
Comment
Another example of General Motors saving production costs: On the 1972 GMC only, the Chevrolet Highlander seat material was an option on their Wide-Side (fleetside) and Suburban. To give this seat insert a different appearance, than the Highlander, it appears the material was turned 90o so the stripes ran the opposite direction.
1972 GMC (optional) (above)
To get the most sales from the special Scottish plaid used in the 1972 Highlander, GM used it in one other application. The special Highlander seat covering could be obtained with the 1972 Suburban. It, like the Highlander truck, was a custom Deluxe series with lower side trim having satin black inserts. The special wheel covers were not used on this Suburban body.
Two of the enclosed pictures are from Frederic Lynes, who has these pictures of his 1972 avocado green and white Suburban the day it was bought new. Note the Highlander seat coverings.
Mr. Lynes also furnished the two photos of the 72 Hawaiian blue vehicle showing a great color view of the Scottish plaid. Frederic Lynes can be contacted at stingrayl82@comcast.net.
Tags: 1972, forgotten, highlander, old chevy truck, pickup
Posted in 1970's, Misc | No Comments »
Thursday, February 11th, 2010
During the late 1970′s, trucks accelerated their change from a more commercial work vehicle to one desired by the family as their everyday transportation. During 1967-1972, Chevrolet and GMC introduced names such as CST, Cheyenne and Sierra Grande to show buyers that their trucks were no longer just for work. Options that rivaled cars could now be ordered for their vehicles.
Surprisingly, the Suburban was held back as the trend toward very deluxe trucks continued. This vehicle was not given the top of the line appointments as the trucks. The middle series in the pickup line was the ‘best’ in the Suburban. Though this was changed in the new 1973 body style, the 1972 Suburban lacked wood grain trim, bucket seats, and the more deluxe door panels. The rubber floor mats were colored to match the interior but carpet was not an option.
The following pictures are of a totally original 1971 deluxe Suburban. Note the door panels. They are almost identical to the Cheyenne pickup but lack the horizontal wood grain strip at the top. Outside lower moldings have satin black inserts, not wood grain. The seat covering is the Custom Deluxe style found on middle series pickups. The blue floor mats are rubber, not carpet. There is, however, a unique upper trim molding used only on Suburbans when you ordered the more deluxe unit.
To get the most sales from the special Scottish Tweed used in the 1972 Highlander, GM used it in one other application. The special Highlander seat covering could be obtained with the 1972 Suburban. It, like the Highlander truck, had lower side trim with satin black inserts. The special wheel covers were not used on this Suburban body.
Mr. Lynes also furnished the two photos of the Hawaiian blue Suburban showing a great color view of the Scottish Tweed. (Frederick Lynes can be contacted at stingrayl82@comcast.net)
The enclosed pictures are from Frederick Lynes who has these pictures of his 1972 avocado green and white Suburban the day it was bought new. Note the Highlander seat coverings.
Tags: 1972, chevrolet, highlander, old chevy truck, suburban
Posted in 1970's, Misc | No Comments »
Thursday, February 11th, 2010
Year/Make 1939 Chevrolet
Owner: John H. Sheally II
What do you tow your Morgan with ?
Story and Photographs by John H. Sheally II
So you wish to hear about my 1939 Chevrolet, grain bed, ton and a half tow truck. Well folks it is what I call a ‘REAL TRUCK’. This baby was built to work and be tough. Quality was important to vehicle builders of the pre-war era. Trucks of that period were built to be strong and simple. There is no plastic parts or paper fender wells held in with paper clips in this machine. Plenty of nickel was used in the steel bodies thus they did not rust out and as a result trucks like mine can be rebuilt, restored or refurbished very easily. Mine was a one owner (same family its whole pre life) from an estate sale in Charlottesville , Virginia . It was a very ugly faded green (original color) and had been worked hard all its years on that farm thus it was an 80% restoration for me. It started with bodywork, paint, new interior, engine work as well as brakes on all four corners and enclosed drive-shaft joints.
My ‘Heavy Chevy’ has been on the road since that restoration 15 years ago, I have done some 10,000 miles a year with it towing to 30 to 40 competition events per year as well as meets and concours. I have competed with several different Morgan Models over these years as well as Cobra, Saab Sonett and two formula cars which have been towed with this dependable machine.
This truck quite often is also entered in shows and wins along with the Morgan being shown for a double header at the show or concours.
The truck is perfect for the job it does. Most of these big Chevy trucks were built as Stake body or flat bed models but mine was one of the rare grain bed model which is like a big pickup bed truck except the beds were built to haul grain and not spill out through openings in the bed. As a result I can carry my tools, spares, tires, air bottles, jacks, generator, etc. The addition of a Tonneau makes it all come together for a nice competition tow package.
The engine was a ‘stove bolt’ straight 216 cubic inch six cylinder referred to as a Thriftmaster Six. When I went to rebuild it two years ago I realized that I would like to have a few more ponies coming out of it because when I hit the mountains with it I would have to really work the four speed gearbox to pull up the steeper slopes. As a result I rebuilt it to a 261 stroker which amounted to a larger bore, longer rods and I drilled a couple of extra weep holes in the head for more cooling. The final package ends up being a Jobmaster Six with 24 more horses on the bottom end resulting in great torque and I can forget the gearbox when I hit the mountain ranges.
The Chevy is sprung stiff and required no special springs or helper shocks as it was built to handle heavy loads when built by the General Motors factory.
I cruise at 55 mph all day long and can hit 75 on a down hill run. I have put Carbon-Kevlar brake shoes on it on four corners and it stops well. It’s a great truck with great working ability and a firm ride.
This black beauty just became a Movie star, making her film debut in the Steven King feature ‘Hearts in Atlantis’, which is produced by Dreamworks.
There is something special about driving a sixty-two year old truck, which was built with purpose and pride four years before I was born.
Tags: 1 1/2 ton, 1939, chevrolet, grain bed, old chevy truck, one and a half ton
Posted in Featured Trucks, Working Trucks | No Comments »
Monday, February 1st, 2010
Owner: Unkown
Finding a forgotten 60 year old stored vehicle to restore is very unlikely in today’s world. They have been already found and junked or are in the hands of a new owner. The most unusual exception is our feature truck of the month.
This 1948 Chevrolet Suburban has been setting behind a storage building or machine shop so long it is buried to the axles in dirt and sand. No garage! The dry air of the area has slowed weathering, though a light surface rust film has developed. No dents and most original parts still remain. Note the GM grill guard, spot light, and optional rear signals.
What a find for a serious rebuilder. Most experienced restorers know the year or more to obtain the parts for this series of Suburban. Here, most all is in place even down to hubcaps and seats. Covered on one side with sage brush, photos on the one open side could be taken to show the detail.
As soon as we begin to say this is just too good to believe, we found it is. The owner states “It’s been in my family since new and I am going to fix it up someday”. Have we ever heard that comment?
The person that recently found this Suburban is also hoping to buy it sometime. Therefore, he traded me these pictures for the promise I would not mention any contacts including him. Sorry!
Tags: 1948, chevrolet, old chevy truck, suburban
Posted in 1940's | No Comments »
Friday, January 1st, 2010
Owner: Dan Kosteiny
As luck would have it, I found this rare 1967 Chevrolet C30 pickup on eBay just 80 miles from home. I saw a reference to GM having built pickups with a nine foot stepside bed in an old dealer brochure. Surprised, I punched “9 foot box” into an eBay search, and this truck popped up. When I went to look at it, I knew I had to have it. I told the seller to pull it off eBay, as it was MINE!
I bought it from the second owner, Tim, who had inherited it from the original owner, an old family friend. Tim had first learned to drive in the truck before it was handed down. Originally purchased for Skagit Valley Sheet Metal, north of Seattle, WA, the truck was at some point fitted with a large cabover camper, so the bed wood and bedsides are nearly perfect.
I purchased the truck with just over 90,000 mikes on it. The truck is completely unrestored. It still wears the original paint, has the factory cloth and vinyl seat, and beige rubber floor mat, all intact. It came with the owner’s manual, the protecto-plate, factory build sheet, etc, all in the factory plastic envelope. It is equipped with a 283 cu. in. V-8, compound low 4 speed and 4:57 rear gearing. It is optioned with Heavy Duty auxiliary rear springs, HD battery, HD alternator, HD radiator and a front stabilizer, so it’s one tough truck.
What I find most unusual about this truck is the appearance upgrades it received. You would think that a 1 ton, nine foot stepside pickup would be purely a work vehicle, but this truck was ordered as a “Custom”, with the additional stainless trim, panoramic rear window, chrome hubcaps, and chrome front and rear bumpers. I believe this truck was a special factory order, and could perhaps be one of a kind. I’m amazed Chevy ever built this truck. It’s on it’s own 133″ wheelbase frame, and rides on 17″ split rims which are specific to the one ton pickup. According to the Chevrolet Pickup Red Book (Motorbooks International), Chevy built 526,776 light trucks in 1967, but only 4,026 were 1 ton stepsides – a fraction of one percent.
The only thing I’ve done to the truck is re-do the factory split rims, and remount the old 7.50 – 17 bias ply truck tires. Somehow, I found a full set of NOS chrome hubcaps on eBay. I plan to keep it as original as possible, for as long as possible. All it hauls now is dog! Jim Carter has not been able to sell me a single part yet, but he knows he’ll get me on my 14 other old trucks!
Dan Kostelny
Olympia WA
360-943-6333
ishnue@aol.com
Tags: 1967, c30, chevrolet, old chevy truck
Posted in 1960's | No Comments »
Sunday, November 1st, 2009
Owner: Don Cotrona
Now, this is just like they used to be!
A 1938 Chevy 1/2 ton rebuilt, beginning with the bare frame and made to look as it was on the dealer showroom over 70 years ago.
The owner and restorer is Don Cotrona of Wallinford, Connecticut. Almost no compromise was made to keep it like it was when driven off the assembly line in 1938. Don even uses the rare 1937-1938 16 inch wheels with the eight slots. Note the correct Brewster green paint, oval bumper bolts, and black front and rear window frames.
This little 1/2 ton was bought 37 years ago when Don was 16 years old. Even though well used it was ‘love at first sight’. He had personally saved $300.00 and thus could make the full purchase.
The disassembly and removal of six layers of paint began immediately. This was the inexpensive part! Putting it back together for regular use on a schoolboy’s budget made it a much more time involved project. It finally became his daily driver after straightening all fenders and cab plus using locally found paint and upholstery. This 1938 became Don’s to school driver. He even dated his future wife while it was his only transportation!
Then came college, marriage, a new home, children and more college. Don kept his little pickup in storage knowing someday it would come back to life. He collected parts for many years from collectors, swapmeets, and answering ads in car magazines. Even the new old stock grill was found in two halves over several years.
So now the rebuilding is complete about 36 years after its initial purchase. Don has made it as the Chevy dealer would have sold it in 1938. Note the snow tires. A necessity for a New England pickup when sold new in the winter. It came with the hand built trailer hitch formed to fit the rear bumper braces. The installation of the new mirror arms is due this month. The old 6-volt radio (see antenna) was required by a teenager that drove the truck in the early years. The little 216 six-cylinder engine and three-speed transmission couldn’t run better. One difference now is that it never sees rain. Water occurs only on washday!
Don Cotrona can be contacted by email: don@hammelny.com
Tags: 1/2 ton, 1938, chevrolet, half ton, old chevy truck, pickup
Posted in 1930's | No Comments »
Tuesday, September 1st, 2009
Owner: Dennis and Bonnie Wegemer
Hello to all! Here is our 1967 C10 with a 1993 step side bed. This is owner built with a 305 tune port 700R4 trans from a 1988 Trans Am. It has a tilt column, Dolphin gauges, billet gauge panel and glove box, classic under dash AC, hidden hitch, front and rear roll pans, Ansen wheels, and lots more.
This truck is Corvette Red and shares a garage with a 1956 Chevy truck, (which is Denny’s daily driver — he has put over 53,000 miles on it in the past four years), and a 1948 International Harvester panel truck, 1934 Chevy Sedan, Bonnie’s 1955 Chevy Belair Sport Coupe, and my new baby, 1977 Gremlin. Don’t hate!
Here is a link to other photos of the truck: http://public.fotki.com/sassychevy/1967chevyc10forsale/
We are in our late 50′s, and have been playing with cars since the 60′s. Denny has his tinmansgarage (his hobby shop-man cave), and Bonnie has her woodworking shop (her tree house). Denny is a machinist and fabricator by trade which makes it cost effective to play with old cars and trucks.
Denny and Bonnie Wegemer
sassychevy@charter.net
Tags: 1967, c10, chevrolet, old chevy truck, pickup
Posted in 1960's | No Comments »
Saturday, August 1st, 2009
Owner: Jim Streeby
I was volunteering for my church, working the graveyard security shift, at a fireworks tent. The 11pm-7am shift was an opportunity to visit with a couple of men from our church, share a few stories etc. We got to talking and I told my new friend I had been searching a long time for a specific, Chevy, truck;.After several awkward moments of complete silence, he looked at me and said, I know where one is, but I don’t think he’ll sell it! 4 weeks later My new friend Aubrey had traveled 7 hours west, to the far southwest corner of Kansas. He called me on his sell phone, was driving the truck, and excitedly told me how wonderfully preserved it was;’If you don’t buy it Jim I will’ he said. That was good enough for me. He even delivered it!
I bought this 1951 Chevy ½ ton in the summer of 2007. I travel the state of Nebraska and Kansas for a living and had called on or looked at many trucks ;so I was picky. This truck arrived in September of 2007, I immediately put new tires and brakes on it, tuned it up and drove it to a few cruise nights. In October my friends encouraged me to enter it at the Midwest National Truck Show. It took 1st place in Original, Un-restored Class. I brought it home and the next day began to completely disassemble the truck.
Over the next 21 months I completely became obsessed with the total frame off restoration. With the constant help of many friends I did a complete frame off restoration. This truck was exactly like the one my grandfather taught me to drive when I was 12 years old. I touched, cleaned, replaced or repaired every nut, bolt, spring, cotter key;.you get the picture;anything less would have a disservice to the impact he had on my life.
I had all the metal including the frame bead blasted. The frame was powdered coated and all other metal was prepped, etching, primered, and a professional paint job was done by a good friend who doesn’t wish to be named. The motor ran fine, but I took it all the way down to the block, replaced the necessary parts, installed hardened valves and made it burn unleaded gas.
The pictures enclosed tell the rest of the story;My goal was to preserve history;.I love this truck and because of my strong desire to do artfully anal retentive job, I have many people to thank. Ken McCarty was with me every step. His vast teaching ability and help was invaluable. My friend Rod Adams artfully crafted the bed wood, Jack Crawford and I installed the 3.55 ring and pinion gears. And last but not least, Mike Taylor and the rest of the staff at Jim Carters were invaluable sources of information and support. Thanks to all! Jim Streeby
Tags: 1/2 ton, 1951, chevrolet, half ton, old chevy truck, pickup
Posted in 1950's | No Comments »
Wednesday, July 1st, 2009
Owner: Don Bryant
During the 1940′s and 1950′s a few body companies created their own design of truck not offered by the chassis manufacturer. In this case the Campbell Co. made their own “station wagon” body to fill a need of a small number of buyers. its all wood construction and 3 or 4 side doors made a very attractive package. It was similar to the GM all metal Suburban with 2 doors.
It this example the Campbell body was built for a Chevrolet or GMC truck. GM would provide the 1/2, 3/4, and 1 ton chassis with factory front sheet metal and windshield plus rear fenders to their dealer. Campbell offered a completed wood body as an exact fit. It could be shipped to a specialized body instillation company and then the local Chevrolet and GMC dealer would have it installed.
Campbell’s body was a replacement for the GM all metal Suburban body. It offered more accessibility and better seating for passengers. Thus, the extra cost was not a factor to many buyers. The Campbell fitted GM truck was perfect to transport people to and from airports and train stations, for school bus routes, hotels, country clubs, tours, camps, etc.
Below is a 1951 ad from the Mid State Body Co. in Waterloo, NY. Shown are the three different Campbell bodies that was available at that time.
This month’s feature is one of these rare Campbell/GM trucks. Few (even rare when new) have survived. This classic like new restored example is on a 1947 1/2 ton Chevrolet chassis and owned by Don Bryant of Oakland, California.
Don bought his 1947 Chevrolet cab and chassis totally restored in 1997. It even included the correct Chevrolet color, Windsor Blue. However, the Campbell body was not rebuilt. He states the “wood was in a large, gnarly pile”. A hunt began for a specialist in older body restoration. Recommendations led him to Ron Heiden in Encinita, CA. His good reputation resulted in Don waiting a year before his turn arrived.
It was in Ron’s shop for 10 months for this procedure! The next step was for even more fine detailed work at the Moonlight Woodies Restoration Shop in Cambrea, CA. The finished product is now for “show-and-go”. Its a work of art that is part of history. Don now drives the Campbell wagon on rare occasions up to about 75 miles from home. Of course, no rain allowed!.
His eamil address is: dbryant@barnesconti.com
Tags: 1947, chevrolet, old chevy truck, suburban, woody
Posted in 1940's | No Comments »
Monday, June 1st, 2009
Owner: Ralph Wescott
Regular readers of this section know we tend to give credit to trucks that are the more unusual. This month is no exception.
Our truck of the month is a 1957 GMC 1/2 ton NAPCO Panel. No doubt this type truck was rarely seen even in 1957. When you consider the factory options, it may have been almost one of a kind 52 years ago!
Why was this panel truck ordered with so many extras? The owner either had very special needs or the GMC dealer wanted the best for display in their showroom. Money must not have been a consideration.
This 1957 Panel truck has its third owner – Ralph Wescott of Largo, Florida. Its working days (may have never existed) are now over. It is kept in Ralph’s temperature controlled garage with several other classics.
In viewing this vehicle you will see the same options that are on the dealer invoice including a 347 Pontiac V-8, 4 speed Hydramatic transmission, power steering, electric windshield wipers, radio, turn signals, passenger seat, white wall tires, fresh-air heater, chrome grill and bumpers, clock, chrome dash knobs, two-tone paint, higher speed 3.07 differential, etc.
The Denver, Colorado GMC dealership then had a local NAPCO dealer add the 4X4 system. Thus, the total package with freight and handling was over $4,000. Quite a heavy price when you consider a base 1/2 ton was less than $1,500. You couldn’t carry $5.00 in groceries in 1957!
This panel truck was restored ground-up by the second owner, in Michigan, 15 years ago. He then placed it in storage as he did not like the feeling of the hard transmission shift. When Ralph bought it last year, the shifting problem was on the top of his list. It was carefully adjusted step by step with much detail. The Hydramatic now operates like new.
Note the 2 tone on the 1955-58 GM panel trucks consist of the white section by the door windows. This was to give local sign painters more success on adding a customer’s logo.
The attached photos show what a special panel Ralph has purchased. The original colors and loaded with options!
Note: The new battery caps. Ralph found the 1950′s screw style so he redesigned the battery to fit them.
Tags: 1/2 ton, 1957, gmc, half ton, napco panel, old chevy truck
Posted in 1950's | No Comments »
Friday, May 1st, 2009
Owner: Charlie
Charlie has owned this truck for over 30 years, since he was 12 years old. He bought it with paper route money. His parents said “What are you gonna do with that truck” he said “gonna drive it”. And he did just that after scraping out the oil pan and replacing the fuel tank.
Message from Charlie:
This truck drives like a dream, goes down the road straight, I sure am glad I took the time to redo the king pins spring bushings and bearings also it likes to roll with the tires I got they look like narrow original but are radials. At first I had a little trouble using the lousy gas of today it cleaned all the varnish off the floats that looked good which made them sink. Not a big deal quick trip to Napa and $14 dollars later ol red purrs smooth.
Tags: 1946, gmc, old chevy truck, pickup
Posted in 1940's | No Comments »
Wednesday, April 1st, 2009
Owners: Bill and Ken Wedelaar
What a traffic stopping combination! When this pair hits the road, even the non-truck enthusiasts take note. The proud owners are Bill and Ken Wedelaar in Midland Park, New Jersey. Bill and Ken have a local auto electric shop and the restoration of these trucks has been their hobby when time became available.
The little black 1949 1/2 ton is one of the best examples of how they left the factory as it shows only 11,000 miles. Bill has owned it 15 years with almost no repairs needed except cleaning and detailing. It had been repainted when Bill found it and he added the whitewall tires. If you want to know what a pure 1949 was like when new, ask Bill or Ken.
The 1948 Cab-Over-Engine (COE) is a piece of artwork. Bill and Ken even bought another COE to get the best parts and then restored it to almost all authentic specifications. A 1954 Chevrolet 235 six cylinder is about the only update that was added. This 2 ton has been his for 25 years. Before his purchase, it hauled a large dozer to construction job sites.
Bill and Ken are obviously enthusiasts and artists in truck restoration.
They can be contacted by email at: kensautoelectric@gmail.com
Tags: 1/2 ton, 1948, 1949, 2 ton, chevrolet, COE, half ton, pickup, two ton
Posted in 1940's | No Comments »
Sunday, March 1st, 2009
Owner: Brian Robinson
Now that our 1939 has had it’s restoration completed we thought we would send you some photos of the finished product.
You will notice that the 1939 New Zealand trucks were noticeably different in the cab area than the American trucks (other than the steering wheel being on the right side!) which could be of interest to others.
Thanks for all your assistance with parts.
Bryan Robinson, Tirau, New Zealand
Tags: 1939, chevrolet, model xhjc, new zealand, old chevy truck, pickup
Posted in 1930's | No Comments »
Sunday, February 1st, 2009
Owner: Tom Pryor
This 1951 GMC advance design half ton is owned by Tom Pryor of Kansas City, Missouri. Found four years ago in Clinton Missouri it was originally an Iowa farm truck. The previous owners had started a very poor attempt at restoration, sanding the old paint with little body repair then applying primer, the truck then sat in the outside elements were surface rust took over on every panel of the truck. The wood bed was rotten, electrical non-existent and field mice had taken over the interior.
My friend and project mentor Rod Adams was the driving force behind the restoration, he has given up many Sundays over four years to help me get the truck in the shape as you see in the photo. Rod owns a 1951 Chevrolet advance design himself and is very familiar with repairing these collectible trucks and has owned many over the years. Most body panels were removed and sandblasted to remove rust and coats of old paint and primer, then we hand sanded the entire truck to prepare the body for Rust Bullet primer. Originally the truck was black, but I decided the Forester Green was a better choice bringing Ol Jimmy back to life. No doubt, Rod will not take on another novice, I think I have been a challenge for him but have learned the dos and don’ts of restoration.
The interior has been restored to original factory specs as well and looks wonderful. All in all it has been an incredible experience and I can’t wait to get to take it out on a long ride when nice weather returns in the spring. For right now it will find home covered in Rod’s airplane hanger on his farm.
Rod and I want to make wooden side rails for the bed. I’m still not sure what color they will be, wood stained or painted and distressed like the new bed. Rod is a true craftsman when it comes to woodworking, especially reproduction furniture ; but I digress … back to the truck. With his wood working skills Rod milled and constructed a new yellow pine bed which we painted black then distressed to make the bed look worn and camouflage future scuffs, then sealed with a wood protector. I’m also considering adding an exterior windshield sun visor but for now I’m content with her profile. The running boards also posed some concern/choices, either prepare and paint like factory or cover them with a protective bed liner non-skid coating on all sides. The coating won out and I’m so glad I don’t have to worry about nicks and scrapes, plus the underside is now protected from the road elements.
The other thing that needs completion is the installation of seat belts; they have been purchased but not installed so that will be an upcoming project. I just don’t feel safe driving any vehicle unless I’m strapped in — even if it’s just lap belts.
Old and new parts were purchased from Jim Carter’s; the sales staff Lisa, Jimmy and Julie were always helpful in finding me everything needed to complete the restoration. In the end the truck turned out more than I expected. Originally looking for a knock-a-round weekend driver, the GMC has surpassed my wildest dreams. I’m most grateful for Rod’s time and talent that has brought this project to completion.
Tags: 1951, gmc, old chevy truck, pickup
Posted in 1950's | No Comments »
Thursday, January 1st, 2009
Owner: Scott Scheibner
Years ago when I lived in Washington State, I had a 1950 Chevrolet 3100 that I restored/rebuilt customized from the frame up. It was my hunting and fishing truck and I loved it. During a time when I was getting ready to build an addition to my house here in California, I got talked into selling my 50. Never felt such pain as I did watching it drive away. My wife hugged me and told me that someday I could get another one. That day finally arrived about 10 years later when I saw my 1948 Chevy 3100 online for sale. It was someone’s project and had a few things done to it that were what I had planned on doing to a truck. I bought the truck and began the long process of re-doing many of the things that were done half assed. It has turned out to be a very special truck even though I’m still working on it.
As with all of my vehicles that I have had and those that I still do, I seem to continually turn to Jim Carter for those parts that aren’t always the easiest to find. I also check with Jim Carter and compare prices because most often his prices are better and he doesn’t gouge you on shipping/handling. I want to thank Jim Carter Classic Truck Parts for always being there with advise, parts and great customer service.
Tags: 1948, 3100 series, chevrolet, old chevy truck, pickup
Posted in 1940's | No Comments »
Monday, December 1st, 2008
Owner: Ron Loos
It’s 1937 and the Great Depression has affected all households. Sales of new cars and trucks have dropped and most manufacturers have permanently shut their doors. The struggling survivors must add ways to stay above the level of bankruptcy.
One of General Motors ideas was to increase sales by adding a new product that their GMC dealers could market. This was the Trailabout, an all purpose small trailer that could be used by both car and truck owners. GMC produced it with little added expense. Most items were already used on their 1/2 ton pickup. The bed, taillights, fenders, wheels, and hubcaps were in stock. The additional GM investment was the light weight metal frame with tongue.
Sales were low during it’s two year production. It is suspected that the $350.00 price discouraged most buyers. During the Depression people could make a trailer from a salvage yard pickup truck or just build one from used materials. The savings would be great over the Trailabout.
Today, finding a real Trailabout is next to impossible. They were bought for hauling and most were never garaged. Their wood floors were probably gone in less than 10 years.
The only Trailabout known to exist belongs to Ron Loos (ronloos@charter.net). Its life began in 1937 in Atlanta, Georgia. It was towed to a new home in Independence, Missouri in 1987, then was hauled to Ron’s home in California mid 2008. Ron is giving it a ground up restoration and will be pulling it to shows with his almost one of a kind 1938 GMC Canopy Express. Won’t that be the talk of any show!
Tags: 1937, chevrolet, old chevy truck, trailabout
Posted in 1930's | No Comments »
Saturday, November 1st, 2008
Owner: Edward Eckel
My truck began life as a 1972 3/4 ton Custom chassis cab with a 350, heavy-duty camper suspension and four on the floor. I purchased it new in November 1971, and by February 1972, I installed a camper body on it. It remained this way until 1995 when the camper body was no longer reliable, having developed some fatal leaks causing some structural weaknesses. It was no longer practical or economical to keep it as a camper. I was faced with the dilemma of what to do with it. I decided to put a bed on it and spruce it up a bit, keeping if for cruise night fun. It had already served us for over 120,000 miles as a camper and was deserving of a comfortable retirement. It has never spent one day in a garage and still stays outdoors but now under a very good car cover. The original plan was only for a paint job and to install a pickup bed.
As it always seem to happen, you can’t simply ‘spruce it up.’ Once you start, you need to go all the way and fix everything. It ran perfectly so I just added some polished trim to the engine, put in a cam, roller rockers, headers, MSD ignition and added an Edelbrock four-barrel carb. on a new Edelbrock manifold.
After locating all the parts to build a nice rust free bed since in New Jersey most are rusted away, things came together nicely. Since it was an 8 foot bed, new bed sides were unavailable so those came from Southern California. Last year with the help of a few good friends, the bed went on then this spring the last of the front end parts and the engine compartment were finished. I kept the original Hawaiian blue color but made it a more sporty two tone, adding the white cab top and in between the side moldings then added all the necessary trim to complete the look. The interior is partly original, part new. The dash was stripped and refinished but the rest of the interior paint is original. The seat, visors and door panels are original but the dash pad, carpeting and steering wheel are replaced. The old 16.5′ wheels were replaced with 16′ aluminum ones and the bed sports an oak natural wood floor with all the mounting hardware of polished stainless steel.
There are many more little things left to be done as time allows to make it even better but for now it looks good and drives well. The first trip to our local cruise night after it was finished I was awarded a trophy so I’m glad my hard work is appreciated by others more talented than myself.
Edward Eckel
Tags: 1972, 3/4 ton, chassis cab, chevrolet, old chevy truck, pickup, three quarter ton
Posted in 1970's | No Comments »
Monday, September 1st, 2008
Owner: John Buhr
This truck has been in my family for nearly fifty years. my dad purchased it from a local GMC dealer in our hometown in western Wisconsin and we are the third owners. The truck was purchased new by the Wisconsin Dept. of Agriculture, next by a farmer in a neighboring community, and then by my dad. We used it on our small farm, hauling can milk to the local creamery, trips to the feed mill, and in the fields at planting and harvest time. It worked well as an all around work truck. We quit farming in the mid sixties and my dad turned the truck over to me. I then used it as a daily driver for about 10 years. During that time I pounded out a few dents that came from the everyday work on the farm, sprayed some paint on it and always kept it out of the weather when not in use.
In about 1975 I started taking it apart, overhauling the engine and replacing the clutch and brakes. It was stored, torn apart, for about 25 years. In 2001 I decided to get going on it again, first doing the front fenders, box, and rear fenders. I did the mechanical work myself and with the help of my cousin, who has a body shop, we finally finished it in 2007.
Over the years I picked up some replacement parts from Jim Carter Classic Truck Parts, and also found some parts at swap meets. The body was pretty much rust free, the running boards were rusted quite badly, but I was able to find a pair in western state that were in very good condition. The rear fenders were a challenge. I had the grille and bumpers re-chromed. Did the bed floor in red oak.
John Buhr
Tags: 1940, chevrolet, old chevy truck, pickup
Posted in 1940's | No Comments »
Friday, August 1st, 2008
Owner: Steve Jones
In the search for unusual trucks to place in our monthly feature, we came to a stop when we found this 1949 Chevrolet ½ ton. Though not restored original, it looks on the outside much like what would have been seen on the road in the early 1950′s.
The owner and restorer is Steve Jones of Manawatu, New Zealand. Steve says this over two year project finished even better than planned. The following is a basic summary of what became a very large project. For further details, contact Steve at: Chevytrucks49@e3.net.nz
Locating this type truck to rebuild was difficult on the islands of New Zealand. The country is ‘down under’ (below the equator) and finding this GM body style became Steve’s challenge. He began to feel lucky if he could just find one for sale.
Finally, Steve found a 1949 Chevy ½ ton with no motor or transmission and an excess of cab rust. With little negotiations, the truck was bought. Steve knew it would be just what he had in his plans once the rebuilding was completed.
The long frame rails were not altered in this rebuilding and all the sheet metal is like it left the assembly plant in Petone, New Zealand in 1949. Yet, the hidden changes are many! The engine is a GM 350 V-8 and the automatic transmission is an overdrive turbo 700R4 from a 1993 Holden (GM in Australia). Also, from that car is a 3.08 ratio differential with disc brakes. The total package gives good vehicle speed at lower engine RPM.
The front rack and pinion assembly comes from a later model XJ6 Jaguar sedan. Steve was quite surprised to find the complete assembly fit the 1949 with very little alteration. It provides disc brakes with four pistons on each front rotor. A vacuum booster for the power brakes is bolted to the left frame rail. The original steering wheel with upper column remains 1949.
Steve used two u-joints and special brackets where he cut his original column just below the floor. In this way the lower Jaguar column can be connected under the hood and out of view. Even the accelerator pedal is pure 1949. He made skillful cuts, bends, and welds to keep the early accelerator pedal assembly which moves the four barrel carburetor linkage of the GM V-8. Remember, this little New Zealand ½ ton has always been right hand drive! The accelerator linkage must run horizontally from beside the right inner fender along the outside of the firewall through brackets to reach the left side of the carburetor throttle rod. Quite a design even for General Motors!
After these difficult mechanical changes, Steve began with the sheet metal. He knew it would be difficult to locate replacement metal in New Zealand. The excess rust would require all fenders, replacing the rusted front cowl panels, and adding a new bed. These items would have to be imported from the United States.
Many items on this New Zealand right hand drive 1949 are unusual to owners of US made Chevrolet early trucks. The most interesting area is the dash. See photo. Not only are the gauge position reversed but look at the top. There is no openings for a radio! Even the speaker grill is without slots for the radio sound. (It is actually a glove box door cut shorter. ) The holes for the ignition switch and cigarette lighter are the same, however the use is reversed.
When you think your GM truck restoration project is requiring more work than you expected, think of Steve Jones in New Zealand. His ’49 is now near show quality and probably one of a kind in this smaller country. Steve’s comment: Never give up!
Far Right: Similar Truck Owned by Graham Stewert, Wyndham, New Zealand
Tags: 1/2 ton, 1949, chevrolet, half ton, old chevy truck
Posted in 1940's | No Comments »
Tuesday, July 1st, 2008
Owner: Jerry Willis
This 1953 GMC 1/2 ton is certainly one of the more special trucks we see at today’s shows. It not only is of interest to people now but would have been a definite attention getter in the 1950′s. Jerry Willis of Independence, MO bought this farm truck un-restored in 1995 and is the third owner. He found it in South Missouri so it had not experienced winter road salt. It was a great candidate for restoration.
Jerry personally restored the truck including the body work, final paint, and refinishing of the bed wood. Its many little extras were added to make it look like a more custom truck you would have seen 50 years ago. Therefore, the transmission, brakes, and rear end are just like they left the factory. Even the “bullet-proof” closed drive shaft system that operated so well during its working years is still in place.
The mint green custom color of the 1950′s, louvered hood, Fulton sun visor, carpeting, cloth interior, and deluxe 1950 car steering wheel were also added by Jerry. The new 18″ chrome wheels and radial tires are one of the few items that is more modern.
Soon after the GMC was purchased, a connecting rod of the original 228 engine came loose from the crankshaft and cracked the block! During his hunt for a replacement engine, Jerry discovered that the larger 270 GMC engine of the late 1950′s was an exact fit in his 1/2 ton. The rebuilding cost was about the same but the horse power would be greatly increased. For better engine breathing, a pair of Fenton exhaust headers were also added.
The total package is about what your would have seen in custom auto magazines and in auto shows during the 1950′s and 1960′s. The greater power is also like performance GMC’s were built with 50 years ago.
You can contact Jerry Willis at email: jjwilli5@aol.com
Tags: 1/2 ton, 1953, gmc, half ton, old chevy truck, pickup
Posted in 1950's | No Comments »
Sunday, June 1st, 2008
Owner: Ken McCarty
This months feature truck is one of the better examples of a correct 1957 Chevrolet Cameo. Its a limited production 1/2 ton that was sold four years in the 1950′s. They are now rarely seen. GM added many extras to their 1/2 ton pickup and came up with this very deluxe truck. This “Boulevard Truck” drew customers into dealer showrooms and yet could be used by a new owner for light hauling.
This Cameo is owned and restored by Ken McCarty of Lake Lotawana, Missouri. It was discovered about nine years ago through a friend of a friend that knew what was under a car cover in a distant neighborhood. It had been beside a house 30 years in storage and was not easily seen by people passing by. Ken must have talked to the owner just right to make the purchase. It was almost as if it was meant that Ken was to own this Cameo.
The vehicle was restored piece by piece during five years. The longer restoration time was because Ken developed an illness during that period and his medical recovery took much time. He is sure this Cameo restoration is responsible for him being alive today. Planning on the next steps of rebuilding kept his mind occupied while he waited to regain his strength.
This Cameo is just about the way it came from the factory. Ken removed a later V-8 and added a more original early 283 cubic inch engine. Its optional overdrive column shift transmission saves engine RPM’s and gasoline plus allows more highway speed. Even a generator keeps the battery charged! The frame and ID plate numbers match.
The original painted valve covers and oil bath air cleaner are in storage when he wants to add an original touch. The Cardinal Red and Bombay Ivory exterior paint is just as it would have come from the factory. Note the optional white wall tires. The width of the white is pure 1957 vintage.
Ken’s Cameo is now a new truck! It is seen regularly at local car shows and always stops traffic. You can contact Ken McCarty at 1-816-578-4032.
.jpg)
