| |
Brian Kansky's1953 Chevy 3100 5-Window |
08 June 2007
# 1968
From Brian :
Here is a picture of my 1953 Chevy 3100 5-window. It has a newer 1956 Chevy 235 ci engine, original 3-speed transmission and a newer rear end so I can keep up with most traffic.
A little history is in order as to why I have this truck: When I was 16, the first truck I purchased was very similar to this one. I paid a local farmer $500 and drove it off. On my way home with my new truck, my best friend was following me with his Mom’s new Dodge Charger. At the first stop sign, I put the truck in first gear (I thought) and gunned it! Unfortunately, I really had put it in reverse because it had a 4 speed transmission and granny gear was where reverse was.
I smashed my rear bumper into the front of the Charger! When I got home, I showed my Dad my new truck. He was pretty surprised because I had not asked permission to purchase the truck. All he said to me was “Do you have insurance?”
“Insurance,” I said. “What is that?”
He explained it to me, took the keys and told me when I got that handled, I can drive my truck. After that I went to my friend' s Mom, (remember the Charger). I pleaded with them to not tell my Dad and I would pay to have their car fixed -- which I did. This all happened the first day I owned the truck. It took me some time to come up with the insurance money so I had a lot of time to work on the truck. I kept it until my first year of college. Then I sold it for $500 and purchased a sports car. What a mistake! I found out much later in life that my Dad knew all about the Charger!!
Fast forward 48 years. I was finally able to find and afford a similar truck. The body is in good shape but the picture makes it look better than it is. It has rust and mechanical issues that I am working on. Things like the fuel gauge, speedometer, transmission locks up in third gear and leaks, no emergency brake, 50 year old wiring and rusted out floors -- all of the standard things these trucks seem to need.
I have been spending a lot of time working on this truck (according to my wife). She thought this was a good idea in the beginning but now I not so sure she feels the same. I guess I need to balance yard work with working on the truck to keep peace in the house.
It has been a blast driving around Whidbey Island, Washington where I live. Getting high fives from people of all ages -- makes me feel like I am 16 again. How cool is that! Everyone loves a Stovebolt!
I have received so much great information from this web site on restoring this truck I can’t thank you enough.
Brian Kansky
"kanskybrian"
Bolter # 14730
Whidbey Island, Washington
So glad you got to get “your” truck back Brian! - Gallery Gal
