1940′s
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 »
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
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Barn Fresh in April 1984!
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Tags: 1 1/2 ton pickup, 1940, gmc, one and a half ton
Posted in 1940'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 »
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 »
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
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 »
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
- 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.
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| Here He Comes! |
Custom Tailgate |
Accessory Back-Up Light |
Jerry’s Grand Daughters |
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| Factory Dash |
Smooth Headliner |
Accessory Taillamp |
Prism |
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| 261 Engine |
Power Plant |
A/C Items |
Bucket Seats with New Covering |
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| 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 »
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
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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
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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
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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
![1947 chevrolet suburban woody]()
Tags: 1947, chevrolet, old chevy truck, suburban, woody
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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Friday, February 1st, 2008
Owner: Jeff Lewis
When I purchased the truck 3 years ago the engine had been rebuilt ( a 1960 235 inline 6) and installed and a feeble attempt had been made on the body work. The interior had to be completely de-rusted. The bed sides that came with the truck were not usable in my estimation so I purchased new bedsides, bed front and tailgate from Jim Carter.
The bed wood came from Jim Carter and is yellow pine stained with lampblack and linseed oil as the originals were. I did use stainless bed strips which are not original to the truck. I painted the truck myself and quickly found out that there is a steep learning curve on the painting but I stuck it out and it came out pretty good. I bought a used HVLP system but if the truth be known, other than the cab and the bedsides everything else was painted using the disposable PreVal sprayers!! They work great.
I worked three winters on the truck. I had to replace the brakes and lines and opted for the stainless steel brake lines. I purchased a few items on eBay but the majority from Jim Carter. I was fortunate in that I live about an hour from Jim Carter and was able to make several trips there and develop a relationship with Mike Taylor. Mike would let me roam around in the basement where all the used parts are, and there were times when I would spend practically the whole day there. Mike went out of his way to help me find difficult to find parts that are not available reproduction. Most people don’t realize the Jim Carter has much more than what is shown in his catalog. They have a huge basement and several yards filled with cabs and used parts. People should check with him first before bidding on eBay for used parts!
Tags: 1941, chevrolet, old chevy truck, pickup
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Thursday, February 1st, 2007
Owner: Steve Neilsen
Having grown up in a family that always had delivery trucks, usually sedan deliveries I have always loved trucks. The first truck I remember was a black 48 Chevrolet Sedan Delivery. Ten a 50,52,54 and than we went to wagons. Still working for my folks in the 70s I found a 48 Chevrolet like my dads and restored it with the exception of installing a 327 and powerglide I got out of a wreaked 68 Impala .All black with white walls and gold leaf sign. After leaving my folks Florist business I eventually ended up in the remodeling business. I always loved COE’s and finally I decided to replace my new cube van with a truck that didn’t go down in value.
After looking, and running some ads I found my truck in Montana. It spent it life as a wheat truck. It now out of retirement and goes to work with me if its not raining. We’re both semi retired. I mounted the body on a 1980 Chevrolet 1 ton chassis. I installed a Chevrolet 350 crate,350 Turbo and 1990 Chevrolet van steering. The box was off a Ryder Rental truck. The wings on the box I got off a 1947 GM school bus used to store parts in a wrecking yard. I finished it up and after years of building cars this gets the most wows so far.
Happy Trucking, and thanks for the great parts,
Steve Neilsen
Red 47 GMC COE
Tags: 1947, chevrolet, COE, delivery truck, old chevy truck, sedan
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Friday, December 1st, 2006
Owner: Jim Fassler
I found this truck in Fall City, WA and it is now in Soldotna, Alaska. I shipped the truck From Tacoma Wa to Anchorage Alaska on Totem Ocean Trailer Express (TOTE). I have driven it about 500 miles since I bought it.
Jim Fassler
Soldotna, Alaska
Tags: 1946, chevrolet, COE, old chevy truck, pickup
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Saturday, July 1st, 2006
Owner: Jim Arrabito
In Feb 2005 I purchased my 1941 Chevrolet pickup off web site DealsonWheels.com. The truck was located in Sacramento, California. I live north of Seattle so I purchased a one way plane ticket to California. Upon arrival, two days later, I finally get to see the 41, stuffed in a small garage with boxes all around. Oil checks good, fill up low front tire, shake hands & turn over $$$. The previous owner shows me what is what. I’m now sitting in the seat, asking myself ” what just happened ? Oh yea, drive me home. I’ve got AAA”.
On the road in California I couldn’t ask for a better ‘ American Graffiti ‘ weekend. I got the value of the purchase price in that 1st Road Trip, plus the bed was filled with spare parts and boxes of parts. 1200 miles NO Problem, except that 80 mph speeding ticket ( “80 in a 41 ‘ really means something). back home I’ve spent the last year, fixing everything, from re-welding suspension, new bushings, shocks, radiator rebuild, ADDING wipers, bumpers, Cragar wheels, relocating battery, gas tank and Painting.
Buy Parts for 1934 to 1946 Trucks
Tags: 1941, chevrolet, old chevy truck, pickup
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Sunday, January 1st, 2006
Owner: Mark Esposito
The attached photos are of my 1949 Chevrolet Thrift Master Panel Delivery Truck. It was restored/ modified about twelve years ago but still looks pretty darn good thanks to the quality parts that Jim Carter supplies. This truck sits on a Chevelle front clip and differential. The engine is a Chevrolet crate 350 with 330hp and the trany is a TH350. She rides on 15″ steel police style chrome wheels. The interior has comfy gray tweed to match the Chrysler dove gray exterior paint. Within the interior there are classic “bow ties” to honor the Chevrolet heritage.
Tags: 1949, chevrolet, chevy panel, deluxe cab 3104, old chevy truck, pickup, thrift master
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Thursday, December 1st, 2005
Owner: Clyde Johnson
Featured this month is a rare 65 year old truck was saved from an unknown destiny almost 35 years ago. The survival rate of this style 1940 Chevrolet pickup is very low because they are rated 3/4 ton. Heavier demands were placed on almost all non-1/2 ton pickups and most were just ‘used up.’
This beauty still lives because it was first owned by the Walnut Grove, Missouri Volunteer Fire Department (near Springfield) and saw duty during occasional fires in the small community. Much of its life it set in the town fire station ready for emergency calls. This is probably why only 26,000 now show on the odometer. It carried ladders, hoses, and related fire equipment as well as firemen. Usually it followed near the larger town fire truck.
The person responsible for the rebirth of this classic older 3/4 ton is Clyde Johnson of Independence, Missouri. He purchased it un-restored from a neighbor in the 1970′s for $200. It was to give his 16 year old son, Larry, something different, dependable, and ‘not fast’ to drive to high school. It came to be Larry’s main local transportation for several years. But then Clyde got it back after graduation. A total restoration was always a consideration but family responsibilities kept it on a ‘someday’ to do list.
It was over thirty years later that Clyde got serious about giving the little 3/4 ton the ground-up restoration it so badly needed. His four children were on their own and he had just retired after many years as a machinist training instructor.
Once the restoration began, Clyde averaged 20 hours per week, 25 most all was done by him personally. He disassembled it to the bare frame and then began building it back and restoring each piece. To make it look less like a fire truck and more as a civilian truck, he removed the spotlight, siren, ladder brackets and a very large steel plate rear bumper where fireman stood on the way to a fire.
It now looks like a 1940 Chevrolet truck as it left the factory. The correct red, black fenders and running boards plus rebuilt mechanicals and new chrome makes it a real ‘traffic stopper.’ It still has it’s 216 six cylinder engine, 4 speed transmission and ¾ ton differential. Yes, 55 miles per hour is about its limit.
Clyde’s enjoyment with his little red truck has increased even more since the restoration three years ago. He has become very active in the local Kansas City Genuine Chevrolet/GMC truck club. He and his little red truck are seen regularly at local shows, driving events, and cruise night drive-ins.
Tags: 1940, 3/4 ton, chevrolet, old chevy truck, pickup, three quarter ton
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Wednesday, October 1st, 2003
Owner: John Hart – Albuquerque, NM
I bought the un-restored Suburban in 1996 from a Kansas source I found in Hemmings Motor News. It must have been home to a thousand mice for 20 years or more; most of the stuffing from the seats was above the headliner, in the glove box, in the doors, etc. Where the mice had nested, the nearby metal was badly rusted from long term contact with urine; the shell was beyond recovery. Fortunately, I was able to find a solid Southwestern parts truck only about 20 miles from home.
The parts truck is a panel; it is identical to the Suburban except for the rear windows and seats. In fact, I checked the production codes and both trucks rolled out of GM’s Kansas City plant only one month apart. I cut the rear window panels out of the original Suburban, did the same on the panel, and welded and bolted the window panels into the panel truck shell. I turned a panel truck into a Suburban. The seats, interior window frames, fittings, and the like from the original Suburban were for the most part in fine shape.
I rebuilt or replaced everything down to the steering balls and spring shackles. It took me over a year, but I found 16-inch artillery style wheels. The engine is a rebuilt 235 with Mallory dual-point distributor and high performance coil. I installed Patrick’s 3.55-to-1 ring and pinion gears in the rear end and a Saginaw 4-speed transmission using Patrick’s adapter kit. This allows the use of the original torque tube drive shaft by shortening the shaft 2 inches.
The color is GM original Hollywood Tan with cream wheels and waistband. Fenders and running boards are black.
Many of the parts were purchased from Jim Carter. I have had it on the road now for about two years and it is lots of fun to drive. One thing about a pickup, you can’t fit too many people. With the Suburban, you can take the whole neighborhood.
John Hart
Tags: 1946, chevrolet, old chevy truck, suburban
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Thursday, May 1st, 2003
Owner: Mike Klepp – Wichita Falls, TX
I bought my 1948 Deluxe cab 3104 in 1995 and have done a complete on-frame “restification.” Everything is stock appearing, but closer inspection will reveal the upgrades I have made in the name of safety and performance.
The drive line is a 1954 vintage 235 that is totally rebuilt. It is disguised with a 216 valve cover. Behind the engine is a 1965 3-speed overdrive coupled to a 1959 open drive rear axle with 3.90 gears. I still have good acceleration, but I can cruise at 65-70 mph all day.
The front and rear suspension as well as the steering are totally rebuilt. To stop the beast is a Nova dual master cylinder connected to upgrade Bendix brakes with new lines and hoses. Radial wide whitewall tires, gas tube type shocks and a panel truck sway bar complete the handling package.
Inside the gauges are rebuilt, seat covered in gray tweed material, steering wheel restored, and new headliner and floor mats added. It was a granny four speed originally, so I collected and installed stock column linkage to shift the newer 3-speed OD.
Outside the body was quite rust free, but 50 years of dents and dings took their toll. The body was stripped, straightened, and painted. Much of the bed is reproduction metal, but all four fenders and both doors are connected to the original cab. Since the truck was black originally, I decided to keep it that way.
The truck does very well at local shows: several firsts, a couple bests of show, and a best paint awards. What I like most is the looks and thumbs up from others as I go down the road. It is a blast to drive.
Mike Klepp
Wichita Falls, TX
Tags: 1948, 3100 series, chevrolet, deluxe cab 3104, pickup
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Friday, March 1st, 2002
Owner: Tom Bollinger
I have begun to restore my 41 Chevy 1/2 ton with parts from Jim Carter Classic Truck Parts, An oldie but a goodie, I worry that I will do harm to the value by changing things too much, The shop manual I ordered from Jim Carter has proven to be a valuable asset to the restoration of this truck. The sale of this truck will be applied to the mortgage of my house. Then again by the time I finish the truck I may have the house paid for and have to take a second mortgage to pay the truck bills. All is well that ends well, and a shinny 1941 Chevy Truck will be on the road again and cruising down the highways of Americas Heartland.
Tags: 1/2 ton, 1941, chevrolet, half ton, old chevy truck, pickup
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Thursday, March 1st, 2001
Owner: Eugene Von Gunten
This is my 1946 GMC 1/2 ton pickup. It is designated Model EC-101. I purchased this truck two years ago from the man who restored the truck with the exception of the bed. He had built a wooden bed from pressure-treated pine. Fortunately, he had the original metal bed, which has its original all-metal floor; and it was in surprisingly good condition. I had a body shop sand blast the bed and my local vo-tech school did the paint work. I was given several old Jim Carter Truck Parts catalogs with the truck and found out quickly that Jim Carter is an amazing resource for owners of these trucks. I purchased the rear fenders from Jim Carter and they are clearly the best fiberglass parts I have ever seen.
The truck was featured in the May/June 2000 issue of “THIS OLD TRUCK” magazine. It is quite rare by comparison to the ’41-46 Chevy trucks it closely resembles. Happily, Jim Carter caters to both Chevy and GMC. I drive the truck frequently during the warmer months of the year. The 4-speed transmission requires double-clutching which is a skill that takes some practice. The tires are 6.50 x 16, which were an option to the standard 6.00 x 16. The result is a little better highway speed. I am considering the newer rear end gears to change the 4.11:1 to a 3.55:1. Of course, Jim Carter offers the parts.
The pictures were taken with a digital camera. The little ‘Rug Rat’ is my younger son Alex, who at age 2 1/2 is just in love with daddy’s ‘Red Truck’. Of course, the lack of seat belts means excursions around the yard are all Alex gets! I talk occasionally with other owners of ’41-46 GMC trucks. They can e-mail me at my home: gvg@infi.net
Tags: 1/2 ton, 1946, gmc, half ton, old chevy truck, pickup
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Monday, January 1st, 2001
Owner: Bruce Pile – Rogers, Arkansas
I bought this 1946 Chevy truck after it had served for many years in the Bell Telephone System, the prehistoric internet that Bell Labs would later upgrade. After helping with the creation of the net, the truck was in pretty sad shape. The guy I bought it from had overhauled the 216 motor and was starting a restoration but wanted to sell it. Unfortunately, he had no antifreeze in the water, and, when we started it up as we were discussing the sale on a January day after a cold snap, it formed a boiling cloud of steam from the exhaust and a river flowing down the street from a geyser spewing out a crack in the side of the block. We discounted the price to $150 and my dad and I towed it home.
First, I dealt with the boat anchor I had for a motor. I disassembled it to the bare block, had the cracks welded, put it back together, put in some powerful stop leak; and to my amazement it ran just fine. Then I proceeded to the treasure hunt – finding the various body parts. It has original steel for everything, plus several items I ordered from Jim Carter. I painted it blue and black and drove it and showed it that way for several years. I loved the way it looked, but the running gear was just a little slow and weak for modern cruising. I had no trouble with the busted up motor, but the other things were becoming a problem. So 14 years ago I did a makeover. I had it outfitted it with a Chevy 305 V8, automatic, and an A frame assembly on the front from a ’75 Chevy pickup, which will bolt neatly to the frame with a pair of 3/8″ steel shims and provides power disc brakes and power steering. I repainted it the Swift’s red (now that it was so swift) and kept the body and interior as close to factory original as I could; there is no law that says you must deviate from the natural beauty of these trucks just because you put in a V8. You can certainly improve how they drive, but, in my opinion, you can’t improve much on what the staff at Chevrolet thought out for how their trucks should look. It was restoring the body and interior to factory original that was the most difficult part of the entire project. Finding the parts was not easy, and Jim Carter’s was the ace up my sleeve there; but far more difficult was finding reliable information as to what was factory original. It was here that Jim Carter’s proved to be a unique resource. I inquired at salvages that are highly regarded for specializing in antique trucks, and got either “I don’t know” or contradictory information. I e-mailed the AACA in Hershey and got “We don’t know. Try these three organizations.” I e-mailed the customer service arm of Chevrolet, which is supposed to be able to answer all your questions about models past and present, and got “We have used all the resources at our disposal and can not answer your questions.” I asked Jim Carter’s and they either gave me answers immediately or said, “We’ll check and e-mail you an answer”, which they did. After having received so much contradictory information from other sources, I was not convinced. I hunted down some old photos of Chevy trucks fresh off the assembly line and some with no restoration or refinishing done, and hunted down several trucks in salvages, examined them very carefully, and got a few answers as to what parts and colors were original; and they were the same answers Jim Carter gave me. If I ever do another project with a GMC or Chevy truck, I’ll not bother with any other source of parts or information besides salvage yards and Jim Carter’s Antique Truck Parts.
I’ve been driving my antique for 14 years and am still pleasantly embarrassed by all the head turning it gets. I still have a “to do” list of 7 items. I’d also like to add a license plate holder that reads “Prehistoric Silverado”.
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Tags: 1946, chevrolet, old chevy truck, pickup
Posted in 1940's | No Comments »
