1949 Chevy 1.5-Ton Grain Truck

	Owned by Cody Prather "prather ranch" Bolter # 20850 Amarillo, Texas Talking about this truck in the DITY Gallery

More pictures on Photobucket

From Cody :

Well, I guess I'll start by telling you about me and how I came about the truck.

I've grown up around farms and ranches most of my life. I've always been into restoration and classics and always wanted the "toys" that stood out the most. I've finished a couple of projects already and I'm about to start this one.

The truck is a 1949 Chevy 1.5 ton. My Grandfather bought this Advance Design truck in the early 1990's to use to haul grain around the farm. It has always been a good running and very well taken care of truck. I've always seen potential in it and always wanted to have it.

Well, as time goes by, the farm was sold along with all the equipment. All except the truck. It has been six plus years since it was put to work but it still starts and runs great. I tend to think it has been patiently waiting behind the barn for its day of glory to come.

My Grandfather and I were trying to sell it but any offer we got, I turned down. I couldn't see selling it to someone that needed it to haul dirt and rocks around in and wind up destroying it.

The truck is all original except for the seat covers and door panels.

Did I mention that it runs great? Last year my Grandparents moved and my Grandpa and I moved it from Clovis, NM to Lubbock, TX -- around 110 miles without any problems.

But, as good as everything is, I do have plans to change some of it. Like I said, I've always enjoyed classics that stood out. The potential I've always seen in this truck is just that. Something that could definitely stand out. My intentions are to create a hot rod grain hauler. While keeping the mostly "stock" look, I intend to make it something I can drive daily and on road trips as well.

Modifications such as a much lower stance, whitewall 22.5" tires (getting rid of the widowmakers), updated brakes, steering and suspension, and a much stouter and louder powerplant and tranny. Haven't decided on the motor yet. Would like some pointers though.

My wife (God bless her for putting up with my toys) and I are picking it up in Lubbock TX in a couple of weeks to bring it home. It's about a 150 mile trip but I have no worries. Can't wait to get started on it. In the meantime there are pictures of the truck and let me know what you think of the idea.

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