A 'virtual garage' of antique Chevy & GMC trucks from around the World

1961 Chevy Apache Stepside

05 November 2007
# 2109

From Joe :

           Here is a picture of my 1961 Chevy Apache Stepside short wheel base as it was when I bought her. It was originally purchased new by a rancher in Elk Mountain, Wyoming. The original color was the Tahiti Coral (pink). Someone painted her red and did a magnificently poor job of it.

            I think I want to replace the whole fenders just for the ease of it and the long-term durability. The lower rear bracket is basically gone and some of the replacements come with that, too. I can buy them for $260 from LMC. The bad part is the rear driver’s fender. It was damaged and a nice new 1964 or newer fender was put on. But the spare tire won’t fit because the cut-out is too far up and forward. It also has been painted an excellent red color and looks great. Too bad, but it’s got to go! I really want to make the truck nice and well-restored, so if it takes time and money then so be it.

           The body is in pretty good shape with the original wood bed. It has a few warped boards. It also has the usual rusty spots behind the front fenders and under the doors.

           The engine is a newly rebuilt 235 that runs great now that it's had a carb rebuild and all new ignition parts.

           The transmission is the stock 4-speed. Notice the rarely seen 4-mirror setup! Sometimes makes ya wonder what people are thinkin'?

What I have done to her so far:

• Cleaned up the rust on the wheels
• New BFG radial TA tires
• Stainless tailgate chains
• Chrome taillight brackets
• New heater/defrost/air controls
• New turn signal cam and associated parts
• New choke cable
• New dome light lens
• Installed under-bed spare tire mount
• Replaced all wheel bearings, seals and brakes

What I want to do for her:

• New front fenders
• Replace rear driver’s fender
• New oak bed
• Replace seat cushion and reupholster
• Paint - Roman Red (a respectable 1961 color)

           I have lots of people stop and talk about the truck at the Post Office, store, etc. Seems everyone has had an old Apache at some point, and everyone smiles with the memories. Too bad the new trucks don’t have the same effect.

           Thanks to everyone for the welcome. I hope to be a productive Stovebolter!

Joe Parrie

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