Jim MacKay's 1934 Chevrolet 1.5-Ton Flatbed

From Jim: 

       Here is a photo of my 1934 Chevrolet 1.5-ton flatbed. It is a nice-running truck that is new to our family and our first Stovebolt -- and a big bolt at that.

       It was sitting under an awning about 50 miles away here in Arkansas. The previous owner cleaned out the gas tank and built an outstanding oak bed that is probably half the weight of the truck. He kept it running for a few years with a regular startup but let it sit for the last couple years after the battery went dead. As you would expect from a Stovebolt, it started right up with a new battery.

       The rubber was so bad I started the repairs there. It now has six new tires with sand blasted and painted rims and drums. I farmed out the tire mounting to an expert. My neighbor took one look and said, "Don't even think about doing those tires. They don't call them widow makers for nothing." I took her advice. She owns a '49 2-ton Big Bolt and speaks from experience.

       Next I have to tackle the wood in the cab.

       It appears that these early Big Bolts require more skill as a carpenter than a mechanic. I have 40 acres of woods and now that I am retired, I can return to my teenage hobby of restoring antique cars. I did Model T's back then but this time I want enough power to drive them up a hill so I'm interested in Chevy 6's. Ford Flatheads overheat. The trucks fit in better here in this farm country so I will probably add a few more pre-war stovebolts as I come across them. (There is certainly room here on 40 acres.)

Jim MacKay
"jim72051"
Bolter # 7365
Fox, Arkansas

           Jim's got a great story about his 1951 Chevy 1/2-ton, Harry. Plus a fun web site to check out. Some neato "antique cars and yard ornaments." I'll say! Even a Super Beatle! In May 2007, Jim added a 1937 Chevy 1/2-Ton to his collection and a Yahoo account with more pictures! ~~ Editor