Jeff Engel 's 1952 Chevy 1/2-Ton

19 June 2006
# 1564

From Jeff:

           I pulled this mostly original '52 from the field out behind the shed where it had been sitting for eight years. It had very minor rust and was fairly straight. I could not believe it. It even has the original wiring ! Guy, younger fellow, 25-somthing, said it was running "when he parked it !" I don't think so -- too many parts missing from the engine -- wires, plugs, etc.

           The engine is a 1960 235. The transmission, 4 speed, appears original and still has the enclosed driveshaft.

           Long story short, after numerous hours of checking and fixing, it started. Then I find out the block was cracked. But not terribly bad. So I pulled the head and all looked good. So the block sealer was up first and it worked.!

           So now I have everything working and beginning to order parts. I have other photos if you want them (just email me).

           I have been around the site for a while. I joined when I bought the '52. I finally have it to a "decent picture state." I thought of sending in the original, moss covered, limb, and leaves full bed, rotted wood, etc, but did not. Those first shots were taken on a cam corder and have been taped over. But ... what a find! The glass was so green with moss you could not see through it. The body looked black. There were mice homes, dirt dobbers, spider-webs, rusty parts, flat tires, magazines, MONEY, and the list goes on. I could have had a yard sale with the junk in the bed and cab

           The truck was frustrating for a while. But I'm a mechanic from way back so a challenge was fun. Everything mechanically now works, even the dome light. Some new tires and I'm about road ready, even though the body needs work.

          Thanks great site. It has and will be very informative to my repairs and parts-finding.

Jeff Engel
"AD-52"
Bolter # 8825
Arkansas