1955 1st Series Chevy 1/2-Ton

	Owned by Paul Hollenbeck "flyn55" Bolter # 16635 Clark County, Las Vegas, Nevada Talking about this truck in the Welcome Center

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From Paul :

I purchased this 1955 1st Series Chevy Advance Design truck in 1999 from a dealer in Florence, Oregon. I had a friend tell me about the truck so I went to see it at the show room. I took it for a test drive and bought it.

The truck was being used to pick up parts in town for the dealer, who was a collector. He restored the truck to the present condition.

I found that it was a 1st series, had the original engine and drive system and a 6 volt battery. I drove the truck for about a year and then changed the windshield, as it had a rock crack. I then put duels on, but I didn't want to open a can of worms, and had the exhaust split after the manifold.

I took the truck to a truck show in Salem, Oregon, where I met Jim Carter, from "Carter Truck Parts." He went over the truck and said that it was the deluxe model with chrome trim around the windows, a spot light, (that works) and electric wipers and the two tone paint scheme. He also said that I was to be very careful and not damage the bed of the truck as it had the arches on the side where the fenders attach and I would have a very hard time finding replacements.

I did re-do the wood in the bed, but I will have to do it again.This time I will have to get all new wood and strips.

No changes were made until about three months ago. I decided to change from 6 to 12 volts. After reading articles on Stovebolt and getting advice, I replaced the 6 volt system. I decided to keep the look as original as I could, so I had the generator re-wound for 12 volt and replaced all the lights with Halogen bulbs.

I have driven it on freeways and back country roads and it has been a real joy.

That is all I have done to it so far. I will have to look at having the truck re-painted as the paint job is about 12 years old and fading.

Thanks,

Paul

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