11 March 2013
# 3012

	Owned by Jerry Adams "BearsFan315" Bolter # 32823 Southeastern Virginia

1930 Chevrolet AD Universal - Canopy Express Truck

More pictures of my old truck
And even more pictures!

Join the discussion about this truck

From Jerry :

I am a long time avid antique vehicle fanatic. I have always loved to watch them in parades, check them out in museums, and learn what I can, when I can. Granted I am a "young in'" by most standards -- but I do have the Passion.

Being a fan of the antiques for a long time now, I always thought it would be cool to own one, in its original state. Now the hot rods are cool, but the originality and simplicity of the original state has always intrigued me.

I have casually scanned classifieds, online ads and auctions, just to see what was out there -- not being in a rush to get anything. Recently, I came across an ad for a 1930 Chevrolet Universal AD - Canopy Express Truck / Huckster partially restored and it caught my attention. This old truck unique in a way all its own. So I contacted the seller and inquired.

Well after a few weeks of working with the seller, finding and setting up transport, and getting all the ducks in a row, the truck was finally delivered in June 2012!! It was now it its new home -- my garage.

Here is a link of the delivery and unloading.

My plan is to restore it to a factory original state within my limits and capabilities. Hopefully with some guidance and direction from my new friends of the local AACA Chapter here, and my new online friends (you guys), I will get this knocked out. I am in no rush to get this done but would like to work on it steadily and patiently.

Now to figure out where to start. My plan was to catalog and take inventory of what I have on hand. I will also do some research and try to figure out HOW this thing goes together as it is currently in pieces.

My son and I unloaded the truck, sorted out the parts and pieces and laid them out on the workbench and floor. Looks like we have a lot of pieces, some even duplicated. We found out some pieces we were missing, and made a list of things to look for.

In June, we went to the AACA show in Richmond, VA to check out the Swap Meet and the Rides. We took our list and camera (to get some shots of how to put this thing back together). We were unsuccessful in finding any parts but we found a 1927 Chevrolet that we got some pictures of that will help up in re-assembly.

The next step was to rent / borrow an engine hoist to remove the engine from the bed, so we could get it ready to attack.

I would like to dry fit everything together to see what I have, what I need, and what needs to be done. Then I can start to disassemble, fix, work, replace, or repair parts that need attention. Then I'll completely reassemble the truck and do the fine detail work.

In January I spent a Saturday working on the frame, stripping it down and putting a coat of primer on. I got about 20% done, taking my time and trying to do it right. It was the first time I had ever attempted anything like this. Also I am doing this with an angle grinder and wire brushes, as well as by hand in the hard to reach spots. Yes I was wearing PPE, safety goggles, face shield, respirator and long sleeves and pants. Wires and paint were flying everywhere !!

I know, I know -- this project will take lots of time, and of course $$ MONEY $$, and LOADS of PATIENCE and homework. I plan on being around a while, and enjoy it once it is complete.

Any and all feedback, support, guidance, reference, information would be greatly appreciated !! I have not had much luck finding a lot of info on any of these.

If you have any questions, feel free to post or PM me. I will do my best to keep you guys updated on the progress with pictures, of course.

I did get photos on DVD from the restoration shop where the original owner was having the truck restored before he past. Looks like a lot of work had been done, and a lot more to go. If you like pictures, you'll love this link - there are over 300 photos in here!

Jerry

Keep track of the restoration project details in the DITY Gallery and check for new photos to Jerry's album. Jerry's been posting on a regular basis and adding lots of pictures. Any and all questions welcome! If you post in the forum, others can share in the discussion. Thanks ~ Editor

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