1953 Chevy 1/2-Ton
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Owned by John Griffin Talking about this truck |
# 2801
From John :
Here's my 1953 Chevy pickup. I've always wanted one ever since we moved here from Oz in the '70s. Our new Utah neighbor had a nice blue one and I thought it was the coolest thing ever. I bought this one about a year ago (August 2009) and although it was mostly complete -- it just barely ran. Since then, I've gotten much accomplished.
I did most of the engine / mechanical work myself. I rebuilt the carb, plugged the manifold leaks, fixed the brakes, installed a new battery, new front bearings, tightened the steering box, put in new plugs / wires, and rebuilt the generator. It also had a burnt exhaust valve, which involved getting the head re-worked. But now, voila, it runs great!
Now it was ready for some body work.
That included sandblasting all of it, taking off the bed, doors, fenders, grille, bumper and hood; fixing dents, welding in a new right-side cowl panel with the heater inlet louvers, replacing all window rubber (I had previously bought the new rubber), and painting / reassembling it. (Here's a picture of the original color.) I also installed a new tailgate and added some new tires.
The odometer turned over awhile back (000000), but unfortunately, I wasn't paying attention and missed it!
It's not perfect or a show truck, but it looks decent, runs great.
Thanks,
John
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